Looking for ESKAPE Bacteria: Occurrence and Phenotypic Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles in Wild Birds from Northern and Central Italy Sites. - Related Documents




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85101.0000Looking for ESKAPE Bacteria: Occurrence and Phenotypic Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles in Wild Birds from Northern and Central Italy Sites. BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Antimicrobial resistance is a critical global health challenge. Among resistant pathogens, the group of bacteria collectively referred to as ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.) is of particular concern due to their ability to evade multiple classes of antimicrobials. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence and resistance patterns of ESKAPE bacteria in wild birds from Northern and Central Italy sites, and to assess the presence of other bacteria of public health relevance. METHODS: Cloacal swabs were collected from 141 wild birds. Samples were processed on selective and differential media, and bacterial identification was performed using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated through Minimum Inhibitory Concentration assays and interpreted according to international guidelines. RESULTS: Thirty-seven isolates belonging to the ESKAPE group were identified: E. faecium (n = 10), K. pneumoniae (n = 9), P. aeruginosa (n = 8), Enterobacter spp. (n = 7), S. aureus (n = 2), and A. baumannii (n = 1). Multidrug-resistant isolates were observed among K. pneumoniae and Enterobacter hormaechei. Escherichia coli, although not included in the ESKAPE group, was frequently detected and often co-isolated with clinically relevant bacteria, highlighting its potential role as a reservoir of resistance genes. CONCLUSIONS: Wild birds can harbor resistant bacteria of clinical importance, including multidrug-resistant ESKAPE species. Their presence in avian populations underscores the role of wildlife in the environmental dissemination of antimicrobial resistance, with implications for both animal and human health.202541148717
161910.9999Evidence of colistin resistance genes (mcr-1 and mcr-2) in wild birds and its public health implication in Egypt. BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance has become one of the most severe global threats to human and veterinary Medicine. colistin is an effective therapeutic agent against multi-drug-resistant pathogens. However, the discovery of transferable plasmids that confer resistance to colistin (mcr-1) has led to challenges in medical science. This study describes the role of wild birds in the harbouring and environmental spread of colistin-resistant bacteria, which could pose a potential hazard to human and animal health. METHODS: In total, 140 faecal samples from wild birds (migratory and resident birds) were tested. Twenty surface water samples were collected from the area in which wild bird trapping was conducted, and 50 human stool samples were collected from individuals residing near the surface water sources and farm buildings. Isolation and identification of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa from the different samples were performed using conventional culture techniques and biochemical identification. PCR amplification of the mcr genes was performed in all positive isolates. Sequencing of mcr-1 genes from three randomly selected E. coli carrying mcr-1 isolates; wild birds, water and humans was performed. RESULT: The bacteriological examination of the samples showing isolates of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca and P. aeruginosa. The results of multiplex PCR of the mcr genes revealed that E. coli was the most prevalent gram-negative bacterium harbouring the mcr genes, whereas a low prevalence was observed for K. pneumoniae. The prevalence of mcr-1 in resident birds, migratory birds, water sources and humans were 10.4, 20,16.6 and 9.6% while the prevalence of mcr-2 were 1.4, 3.6, 11.1 and 9.6%, respectively. Sequencing of the mcr-1 gene from the three E. coli carrying mcr-1 isolates indicated a possible correlation between the wild bird and surface water isolates. CONCLUSION: The detection of mcr-1-positive bacteria in wild birds in Egypt indicates the possible environmental dissemination of this gene through bird activity. The impact of the interaction between domestic and wild animals on public health cannot be overlooked.201931827778
225320.9999Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance Profiles in Carbapenemase-Producing Gram-Negative Rods-A Comparative Analysis between Screening and Pathological Isolates. (1) Background: Carbapenem-resistant (CR) bacteria pose a significant global public health challenge due to their ability to evade treatment with beta-lactam antibiotics, including carbapenems. This study investigates the biofilm-forming capabilities of CR clinical bacterial isolates and examines the impact of serum on biofilm formation. Additionally, the study evaluates the resistance profiles and genetic markers for carbapenemase production. (2) Methods: Bacterial isolates were collected from the microbiology laboratory of Mures County Clinical Hospital between October 2022 and September 2023. Pharyngeal and rectal swabs were screened for carbapenem-resistant bacteria using selective media. Lower respiratory tract samples were also analyzed for CR Gram-negative bacteria. The isolates were tested for their ability to form biofilms in the presence and absence of fetal bovine serum at 24 and 48 h. Carbapenemase production was detected phenotypically and confirmed via PCR for relevant genes. (3) Results: Out of 846 screened samples, 4.25% from pharyngeal swabs and 6.38% from rectal swabs tested positive for CR bacteria. Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the most common species isolated. Biofilm formation varied significantly between clinical isolates and standard strains, with clinical isolates generally showing higher biofilm production. The presence of serum had no significant effect on biofilm formation in Klebsiella spp., but stimulated biofilm formation for Acinetobacter spp. Carbapenemase genes bla(KPC), bla(OXA-48-like), and bla(NDM) were detected in various isolates, predominantly in Klebsiella spp., but were not the main determinants of carbapenem resistance, at least in screening isolates. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights the variability in biofilm formation among CR clinical isolates and underscores the differences between the bacteria found as carriage versus infection. Both bacterial species and environmental factors variably influence biofilm formation. These insights are crucial for the development of effective treatment and infection control strategies in clinical settings.202439199988
167930.9999Analysis of ESKAPE pathogens in clinical isolates in a tertiary care hospital in China from 2018 to 2023. The widespread use of antimicrobial agents correlated with the increasing incidence of nosocomial infections and bacterial antibiotic resistance. These have become major challenges in the prevention and control of hospital-acquired infections worldwide. The aims of this study were to analyze the distribution and characteristics of ESKAPE pathogenic bacteria and their antibiotic resistance profile among clinical isolates from a tertiary hospital in China from 2018 to 2023. The results showed that a total of 20,472 non-duplicated pathogenic bacteria were isolated from clinical specimens in this hospital between 2018 and 2023, of which the top five pathogenic bacteria were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Acinetobacter baumannii. In case of E. coli the main detected resistance genes were blaCTX-M, blaTEM and blaOXA. K. pneumoniae mainly carried blaOXA, blaKPC and blaNDM genes. P. aeruginosa was mainly positive for blaOXA, AmpC type beta-lactamases and blaVIM genes. A. baumannii mainly carried ArmA, blaTEM and cas3 genes. S. aureus was mainly positive for mecA, erm(C) and erm(A) genes. In this study, we have found that the antibiotic resistance of common pathogens from clinical isolates in a tertiary hospital in China in the past 6 years is severe, and A. baumannii was particularly a prominent pathogen. There is an urgent need to strengthen the prevention and control of nosocomial infections and antimicrobial drug management in order to curb the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria.202540522743
100440.9998Hospital Wastes as Potential Sources for Multi-Drug-Resistant ESBL-Producing Bacteria at a Tertiary Hospital in Ethiopia. The hospital environment is increasingly becoming an important reservoir for multi-drug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria, posing serious challenges to efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study aimed to investigate the role of hospital waste as a potential source of MDR ESBL-producing bacteria. Samples were collected from multiple sources within a hospital and its vicinity, including surface swabs, houseflies, and sewage samples. The samples were subsequently processed in a microbiology laboratory to identify potential pathogenic bacteria and confirmed using MALDI-TOF MS. Bacteria were isolated from 87% of samples, with the predominant isolates being E. coli (30.5%), Klebsiella spp. (12.4%), Providencia spp. (12.4%), and Proteus spp. (11.9%). According to the double disc synergy test (DDST) analysis, nearly half (49.2%) of the bacteria were identified as ESBL producers. However, despite exhibiting complete resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, 11.8% of them did not test positive for ESBL production. The characterization of E. coli revealed that 30.6% and 5.6% of them carried blaCTX-M group 1 type-15 and blaNDM genes, respectively. This finding emphasizes the importance of proper hospital sanitation and waste management practices to mitigate the spread of AMR within the healthcare setting and safeguard the health of both patients and the wider community.202438667050
196450.9998Antimicrobial resistance of pet-derived bacteria in China, 2000-2020. With the rapid growth of the pet industry in China, bacterial infectious diseases in pets have increased, highlighting the need to monitor antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pet-derived bacteria to improve the diagnosis and treatment. Before the establishment of the China Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network for Pets (CARPet) in 2021, a comprehensive analysis of such data in China was lacking. Our review of 38 point-prevalence surveys conducted between 2000 and 2020 revealed increasing trends in AMR among pet-derived Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and other bacterial pathogens in China. Notable resistance to β-lactams and fluoroquinolones, which are largely used in both pets and livestock animals, was observed. For example, resistance rates for ampicillin and ciprofloxacin in E. coli frequently exceeded 50.0%, with up to 41.3% of the isolates producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases. The emergence of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae and E. coli, carrying bla(NDM) and bla(OXA) genes, highlighted the need for vigilant monitoring. The detection rate of SCCmec (Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome mec), a genetic element associated with methicillin resistance, in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolated from pets in China was found to be over 40.0%. The resistance rate of E. faecalis to vancomycin was 2.1% (5/223) in East China, which was higher than the detection rate of human-derived vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (0.1%, 12/11,215). Establishing the national AMR surveillance network CARPet was crucial, focusing on representative cities, diverse clinical samples, and including both commonly used antimicrobial agents in veterinary practice and critically important antimicrobial agents for human medicine, such as carbapenems, tigecycline, and vancomycin.202540135877
196160.9998Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance of Canine Otitis Pathogens in the Iberian Peninsula (2010-2021). Background: The close relationship between humans and petsraises health concerns due to the potential transmission of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and genes. Bacterial otitis is an emerging health problem in dogs, given its widespread prevalence and impact on animal welfare. Early detection of resistance is vital in veterinary medicine to anticipate future treatment challenges. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of AMR bacteria involved in 12,498 cases of otitis in dogs from the Iberian Peninsula and the evolution of AMR patterns over an 11-year period. Methods: Data was provided by the Veterinary Medicine Department of a large private diagnostic laboratory in Barcelona. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the standard disk diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing. Results: The frequency of the principal bacterial agents was 35% Staphylococcus spp. (principally S. pseudointermedius), 20% Pseudomonas spp. (P. aeruginosa), 13% Streptococcus spp. (S. canis), and 11% Enterobacterales (Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed P. aeruginosa (among Gram-negatives) and Enterococcus faecalis (among Gram-positives) as the species with the highest AMR to multiple antimicrobial classes throughout the years. According to the frequency and time evolution of multidrug resistance (MDR), Gram-negative bacteria like P. mirabilis (33%) and E. coli (25%) presented higher MDR rates compared to Gram-positive strains like Corynebacterium (7%) and Enterococcus (5%). The AMR evolution also showed an increase in resistance patterns in Proteus spp. to doxycycline and Streptococcus spp. to amikacin. Conclusions: This information can be useful for clinicians, particularly in this region, to make rational antimicrobial use decisions, especially when empirical treatment is common in companion animal veterinary medicine. In summary, improving treatment guidelines is a key strategy for safeguarding both animal and human health, reinforcing the One Health approach.202540298475
85270.9998Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria Isolated from Exotic Pets: The Situation in the Iberian Peninsula. Literature related to antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria in exotic pets is minimal, being essential to report objective data on this topic, which represents a therapeutic challenge for veterinary medicine and public health. Between 2016 and 2020, laboratory records of 3156 exotic pet specimens' microbiological diagnoses and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) results were examined. The samples were classified into three animal classes: birds (n = 412), mammalia (n = 2399), and reptilian (n = 345). The most prevalent bacteria in birds and mammals were Staphylococcus spp. (15% and 16%), while in reptiles they were Pseudomonas spp. (23%). Pseudomonas was the genus with the highest levels of AMR in all animal groups, followed by Enterococcus spp. By contrast, Gram-positive cocci and Pasteurella spp. were the most sensitive bacteria. Moreover, in reptiles, Stenotrophomonas spp., Morganella spp., and Acinetobacter spp. presented high levels of AMR. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria were isolates from reptiles (21%), birds (17%), and mammals (15%). The Enterobacterales had the highest MDR levels: S. marcescens (94.4%), C. freundii (50%), M. morganii (47.4%), K. pneumoniae (46.6%), E. cloacae (44%), and E. coli (38.3%). The prevalence of MDR P. aeruginosa strains was 8%, detecting one isolate with an XDR profile. Regarding antimicrobial use, many antibiotics described as critically important for human use had significant AMR prevalence in bacteria isolated from exotic pets. Under the One-Health approach, these results are alarming and of public health concern since potential transmission of AMR bacteria and genes can occur from exotic pets to their owners in both senses. For this reason, the collaboration between veterinarians and public health professionals is crucial.202235953901
100380.9998Molecular Surveillance and Dissemination of Klebsiella pneumoniae on Frequently Encountered Surfaces in South African Public Hospitals. Bacteria that cause life-threatening illnesses in humans are also capable of contaminating hospital surfaces, thus pose as a potential source of infection. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, genetic diversity, virulence, and antibiotic resistance profile of Klebsiella pneumoniae in South Africa. In a nonoutbreak setting involving four public hospitals, 777 samples were collected in three different wards from 11 different sites. Phenotypic and genotypic methods were used for isolation and identification. The Kirby-Bauer disk-diffusion method was used to examine antibiotic resistance followed by the combination disk method to characterize extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). Antibiotic resistance and virulence genes were screened using PCR and clonality was investigated using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR. Seventy-five (10%) K. pneumoniae isolates were recovered. These isolates were obtained from all four hospitals and all three wards involved. However, only six frequently touched surfaces were contaminated. Thirty (40%) isolates were characterized as ESBLs showing high resistance to antibiotics and mostly harboring the bla(CTX-M) group one gene. Virulence genes were highly prevalent among all the isolates. ERIC-PCR showed that the isolates recovered from different sites within the same hospital were genetically similar. The study highlighted that K. pneumoniae can contaminate various surfaces and this persistence allows for the dissemination of bacteria within the hospital environment. The information from this study can assist hospitals to evaluate and improve current infection prevention and control interventions in place.202234170205
161890.9998Molecular Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli from Fecal Samples of Wild Animals. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance in fecal Escherichia coli isolates from wildlife is crucial for monitoring the spread of this microorganism in the environment and for developing effective AMR control strategies. Wildlife can act as carriers of AMR bacteria and spread them to other wildlife, domestic animals, and humans; thus, they have public health implications. A total of 128 Escherichia coli isolates were obtained from 66 of 217 fecal samples obtained from different wild animals using media without antibiotic supplementation. Antibiograms were performed for 17 antibiotics to determine the phenotypic resistance profile in these isolates. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production was tested using the double-disc synergy test, and 29 E. coli strains were selected for whole genome sequencing. In total, 22.1% of the wild animals tested carried multidrug-resistant E. coli isolates, and 0.93% (2/217) of these wild animals carried E. coli isolates with ESBL-encoding genes (bla(CTX-M-65), bla(CTX-M-55), and bla(EC-1982)). The E. coli isolates showed the highest resistance rates to ampicillin and were fully susceptible to amikacin, meropenem, ertapenem, and imipenem. Multiple resistance and virulence genes were detected, as well as different plasmids. The relatively high frequency of multidrug-resistant E. coli isolates in wildlife, with some of them being ESBL producers, raises some concern regarding the potential transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria among these animals. Gaining insights into antibiotic resistance patterns in wildlife can be vital in shaping conservation initiatives and developing effective strategies for responsible antibiotic use.202439453061
2040100.9998Multidrug-resistant bacteria as intestinal colonizers and evolution of intestinal colonization in healthy university students in Portugal. Multidrug-resistant bacteria have been increasingly described in healthcare institutions, however community resistance also seems to be emerging. Escherichia coli an intestinal commensal bacteria, is also a pathogen and represents an important intestinal reservoir of resistance. Our aim was the study of the intestinal colonization and of the persistence of antibiotic resistant intestinal bacteria in healthy university students of Porto, in the north of Portugal. Samples from 30 university students were collected and analysed. Two E. coli isolates were randomly obtained from each student and Gram-negative bacilli resistant to antibiotics were studied. In addition, we evaluated changes in the Gram-negative intestinal colonization of ten university students in a short period of time. Molecular characterization showed a high presence of bla (TEM) in commensal E. coli . Gram-negative bacteria with intrinsic and extrinsic resistance were isolated, namely Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacter spp. and Pantoea spp. We isolated three ESBL-producing E. coli from two students. These isolates showed bla (CTX-M) group 1 (n=1), bla (CTX-M) group 9 (n=2), bla (TEM) (n=2), bla (SHV) (n=1) and tetA (n=2) genes. Additionally, they showed specific virulence factors and conjugational transfer of antibiotic resistance and virulence genes. One Pseudomonas spp. isolate resistant to carbapenems was detected colonizing one student. Our results confirm that healthy young adults may be colonized with commensals showing clinically relevant antibiotic resistance mechanisms, creating a risk of silent spread of these bacteria in the community.202133997613
869110.9998The Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistance Phenotypes and Genotypes in Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Isolates from the Academic Hospital of Jaén, Spain. The heterogenicity of antimicrobial resistance genes described in clinically significant bacterial isolates and their potential role in reducing the efficacy of classically effective antibiotics pose a major challenge for global healthcare, especially in infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. We analyzed 112 multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates from clinical samples in order to detect high resistance profiles, both phenotypically and genotypically, among four Gram-negative genera (Acinetobacter, Escherichia, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas). We found that 9.8% of the total selected isolates were classified as extensively drug-resistant (XDR) (six isolates identified as A. baumannii and five among P. pneumoniae isolates). All other isolates were classified as MDR. Almost 100% of the isolates showed positive results for bla(OXA-23) and bla(NDM-1) genes among the A. baumannii samples, one resistance gene (bla(CTX-M)) among E. coli, and two genetic determinants (bla(CTX-M) and aac(6')-Ib) among Klebsiella. In contrast, P. aeruginosa showed just one high-frequency antibiotic resistance gene (dfrA), which was present in 68.42% of the isolates studied. We also describe positive associations between ampicillin and cefotaxime resistance in A. baumannii and the presence of bla(VEB) and bla(GES) genes, as well as between the aztreonam resistance phenotype and the presence of bla(GES) gene in E. coli. These data may be useful in achieving a better control of infection strategies and antibiotic management in clinical scenarios where these multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens cause higher morbidity and mortality.202438786157
1682120.9998Multidrug-Resistant and Clinically Relevant Gram-Negative Bacteria Are Present in German Surface Waters. Water is considered to play a role in the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria including those encoding Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) and carbapenemases. To investigate the role of water for their spread in more detail, we characterized ESBL/Carbapenemase-producing bacteria from surface water and sediment samples using phenotypic and genotypic approaches. ESBL/Carbapenemase-producing isolates were obtained from water/sediment samples. Species and antibiotic resistance were determined. A subset of these isolates (n = 33) was whole-genome-sequenced and analyzed for the presence of antibiotic resistance genes and virulence determinants. Their relatedness to isolates associated with human infections was investigated using multilocus sequence type and cgMLST-based analysis. Eighty-nine percent of the isolates comprised of clinically relevant species. Fifty-eight percent exhibited a multidrug-resistance phenotype. Two isolates harbored the mobile colistin resistance gene mcr-1. One carbapenemase-producing isolate identified as Enterobacter kobei harbored bla (VIM-) (1). Two Escherichia coli isolates had sequence types (ST) associated with human infections (ST131 and ST1485) and a Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate was classified as hypervirulent. A multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolate encoding known virulence genes associated with severe lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients was also detected. The presence of MDR and clinically relevant isolates in recreational and surface water underlines the role of aquatic environments as both reservoirs and hot spots for MDR bacteria. Future assessment of water quality should include the examination of the multidrug resistance of clinically relevant bacterial species and thus provide an important link regarding the spread of MDR bacteria in a One Health context.201931849911
1695130.9998Presence of the blaTEM Gene in Commensal Neisseria spp.: A Possible Cause for the Acquired Drug Resistance Among Pathogenic Respiratory Bacteria. Background The oral microbiome consists of various bacterial genera, with Neisseria spp. being a prominent part of this niche. While Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis are human-restricted pathogens, non-pathogenic Neisseria species like Neisseria sicca, Neisseria perflava, etc., are primarily commensals that can also behave as opportunistic pathogens. With increasing penicillin resistance in commensal Neisseria, there is a concern that these bacteria might harbor resistance genes that can be transferred to other pathogens. This study aimed to characterize the blaTEM gene (encodes for the plasmid-mediated β-lactamase enzyme that hydrolyzes the β-lactam ring) of commensal Neisseria spp. isolated from respiratory samples. Methodology The research was conducted in the Department of Clinical Microbiology at Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai. The specimens used were sputum and throat swabs, which were subjected to a series of phenotypic methods and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) for speciation. The antibiogram was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and a PCR assay was utilized to identify the blaTEM( )gene responsible for β-lactamase production. Results Out of 274 processed samples, 65 unique commensal Neisseria spp. were identified. The study highlighted the presence of the blaTEM gene in 93.9% (61) of the isolates, which is responsible for β-lactamase production. All isolates exhibited resistance to penicillin. Most blaTEM-positive commensal Neisseria spp. were susceptible to cefuroxime (83.6%), ceftriaxone (85.2%), and cefotaxime (85.2%). The high prevalence of the blaTEM gene in commensal Neisseria is alarming. The gene, found on plasmids, could potentially transfer to other related species like Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis, as well as other Gram-negative bacilli. Conclusion The presence of resistance genes in commensal bacteria is of concern, as they might be reservoirs for resistance transfer to pathogenic strains. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and deeper investigations into commensal bacteria, emphasizing the need for a broader community screening approach to understand resistance mechanisms in the normal microbiome.202338146567
2254140.9998Hospitalized Pets as a Source of Carbapenem-Resistance. The massive and irrational use of antibiotics in livestock productions has fostered the occurrence and spread of resistance to "old class antimicrobials." To cope with that phenomenon, some regulations have been already enforced in the member states of the European Union. However, a role of livestock animals in the relatively recent alerts on the rapid worldwide increase of resistance to last-choice antimicrobials as carbapenems is very unlikely. Conversely, these antimicrobials are increasingly administered in veterinary hospitals whose role in spreading bacteria or mobile genetic elements has not adequately been addressed so far. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 105 hospitalized and 100 non-hospitalized pets with the aim of measuring the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) colonizing dogs and cats, either hospitalized or not hospitalized and estimating the relative odds. Stool samples were inoculated on MacConkey agar plates containing 1 mg/L imipenem which were then incubated aerobically at 37°C ± 1 for 48 h. Isolated bacteria were identified first by Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and were confirmed by 16S rRNA sequencing. The genetic basis of resistance was investigated using PCR methods, gene or whole genome sequencing (WGS). The prevalence of pets harboring carbapenem-resistant bacteria was 11.4 and 1.0% in hospitalized and not-hospitalized animals, respectively, with an odds ratio of 12.8 (p < 0.01). One pet carried two diverse isolates. Overall, 14 gram-negative non-fermenting bacteria, specifically, one Acinetobacter radioresistens, five Acinetobacter baumannii, six Pseudomonas aeruginosa and two Stenotrophomonas maltophilia were isolated. The Acinetobacter species carried acquired carbapenemases genes encoded by bla (NDM-1) and bla (OXA-23). In contrast, Pseudomonas phenotypic resistance was associated with the presence of mutations in the oprD gene. Notably, inherent carbapenem-resistant isolates of S. maltophilia were also resistant to the first-line recommended chemotherapeutic trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. This study estimates the risk of colonization by carbapenem-resistant non-fermenting GNB in pets hospitalized in veterinary tertiary care centers and highlights their potential role in spreading resistance genes among the animal and human community. Public health authorities should consider extending surveillance systems and putting the release of critical antibiotics under more strict control in order to manage the infection/colonization of pets in veterinary settings.201830574124
1610150.9998Antimicrobial resistance and metallo-beta-lactamase producing among commensal Escherichia coli isolates from healthy children of Khuzestan and Fars provinces; Iran. BACKGROUND: The emergence of metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-producing isolates is alarming since they carry mobile genetic elements with great ability to spread; therefore, early detection of these isolates, particularly their reservoir, is crucial to prevent their inter- and intra-care setting dissemination and establish suitable antimicrobial therapies. The current study was designed to evaluate the frequency of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), MBL producers and identification of MBL resistance genes in Escherichia coli strains isolated from fecal samples of the healthy children under 3 years old. A total of 412 fecal E. coli isolates were collected from October 2017 to December 2018. The study population included healthy infants and children aged < 3 years who did not exhibit symptoms of any diseases, especially gastrointestinal diseases. E. coli isolates were assessed to determine the pattern of AMR. E. coli isolates were assessed to determine the pattern of AMR, the production of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and MBL by phenotypic methods. Carbapenem-resistant isolates were investigated for the presence of MBL and carbapenemase genes, plasmid profiling, and the ability of conjugation. RESULTS: In sum, AMR, multi-drug resistance (MDR) and ESBL production were observed in more than 54.9, 36.2 and 11.7% of commensal E. coli isolates, respectively. Out of six isolates resistant to imipenem and meropenem, four isolates were phenotypically detected as MBL producers. Two and one E. coli strains carried the bla(NDM-1) and bla(VIM-2) genes, respectively and were able to transmit imipenem resistance through conjugation. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that children not exposed to antibiotics can be colonized by E. coli isolates resistant to the commonly used antimicrobial compounds and can be a good indicator for the occurrence and prevalence of AMR in the community. These bacteria can act as a potential reservoir of AMR genes including MBL genes of pathogenic bacteria and lead to the dissemination of resistance mechanisms to other bacteria.202033256594
2303160.9998Patterns of Drug-Resistant Bacteria in a General Hospital, China, 2011-2016. Drug-resistant bacteria has been a threat to public life and property. We described the trends and changes in antibiotic resistance of important pathogens in a general hospital in Zhengzhou, China from 2011 to 2016, to control antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in hospital and provide support to clinicians and decision-making departments. Five dominant bacteria were enrolled based on the data from the general hospital during 6 years. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing were interpreted according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). From 2011 to 2016, a total of 19,260 strains of bacteria were isolated, of which Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii accounted for 51.98%. The resistance rate of K. pneumoniae and E. coli to carbapenem was less than 15%, but resistance of K. pneumoniae to carbapenems increased with time and resistance of E. coli to meropenem increased. The rate of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production among K. pneumoniae and E. coli was decreasing. For most antibiotics, the resistance rate of ESBL-positive isolates was higher than that of ESBL-negative isolates, excluding carbapenems and cefoxitin. For S. aureus, the rate of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was stable. Resistance of S. aureus to mostly antibiotics decreased with time. Besides polymyxin B, P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii showed high resistance to other antibiotics. For A. baumannii, the resistance rate to mostly antibiotics was increasing. The bacteria showed high levels of resistance and multiple drug resistance. Continuous surveillance and optimizing the use of antibiotics are essential. Drug-resistant bacteria has been a threat to public life and property. We described the trends and changes in antibiotic resistance of important pathogens in a general hospital in Zhengzhou, China from 2011 to 2016, to control antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in hospital and provide support to clinicians and decision-making departments. Five dominant bacteria were enrolled based on the data from the general hospital during 6 years. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing were interpreted according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). From 2011 to 2016, a total of 19,260 strains of bacteria were isolated, of which Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii accounted for 51.98%. The resistance rate of K. pneumoniae and E. coli to carbapenem was less than 15%, but resistance of K. pneumoniae to carbapenems increased with time and resistance of E. coli to meropenem increased. The rate of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production among K. pneumoniae and E. coli was decreasing. For most antibiotics, the resistance rate of ESBL-positive isolates was higher than that of ESBL-negative isolates, excluding carbapenems and cefoxitin. For S. aureus, the rate of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was stable. Resistance of S. aureus to mostly antibiotics decreased with time. Besides polymyxin B, P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii showed high resistance to other antibiotics. For A. baumannii, the resistance rate to mostly antibiotics was increasing. The bacteria showed high levels of resistance and multiple drug resistance. Continuous surveillance and optimizing the use of antibiotics are essential.201931250593
1960170.9998Phenotypic Investigation and Detection of Biofilm-Associated Genes in Acinetobacter baumannii Isolates, Obtained from Companion Animals. Bacteria of the genus Acinetobacter, especially Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab), have emerged as pathogens of companion animals during the last two decades and are commonly associated with hospitalization and multidrug resistance. A critical factor for the distribution of relevant strains in healthcare facilities, including veterinary facilities, is their adherence to both biotic and abiotic surfaces and the production of biofilms. A group of 41 A. baumannii isolates obtained from canine and feline clinical samples in Greece was subjected to phenotypic investigation of their ability to produce biofilms using the tissue culture plate (TCP) method. All of them (100%) produced biofilms, while 23 isolates (56.1%) were classified as strong producers, 11 (26.8%) as moderate producers, and 7 (17.1%) as weak producers. A correlation between the MDR and XDR phenotypes and weak or moderate biofilm production was identified. Moreover, the presence of four biofilm-associated genes bap, bla(PER), ompA, and csuE was examined by PCR, and they were detected in 100%, 65.9%, 97.6%, and 95.1% of the strains respectively. All isolates carried at least two of the investigated genes, whereas most of the strong biofilm producers carried all four genes. In conclusion, the spread and persistence of biofilm-producing Ab strains in veterinary facilities is a matter of concern, since they are regularly obtained from infected animals, indicating their potential as challenging pathogens for veterinarians due to multidrug resistance and tolerance in conventional eradication measures. Furthermore, considering that companion animals can act as reservoirs of relevant strains, public health concerns emerge.202438787042
1907180.9998Nationwide surveillance of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative pathogens in the Lebanese environment. Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens with carbapenem resistance pose a significant health threat. Despite extensive research on the spread of these pathogens within Lebanese hospital settings, their emergence in environmental settings remains understudied. This study aimed to explore the environmental spread of carbapenem resistance among Gram-negative bacteria isolated from environmental samples in nine districts across Lebanon. A total of 250 samples were collected from wild animals, sewage, water, and soil between June 2022 and September 2023. Samples were streaked on MacConkey agar plates supplemented with 2 mg/L meropenem. Bacterial species were identified primarily using API20E. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles were determined by the disk diffusion method and the Vitek 2 compact system. Meropenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria were further characterized by whole-genome sequencing, and each of the bacterial species, sequence types, resistance genes, and plasmids was detected by sequence data analysis. We successfully isolated 130 carbapenem-resistant isolates from various samples, 67 of which belonged to the ESKAPE pathogens list and showed a multidrug-resistant (MDR) profile. The distribution of the latter was as follows: Escherichia coli (65.67%), Acinetobacter baumannii (16.42%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (11.94%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (5.97%). Several carbapenem resistance genes were detected, with a prevalence of blaNDM-5 in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, blaIMP-1 and mexAB-OprM efflux pumps in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and blaOXA-23 in Acinetobacter baumannii. Our findings revealed a widespread distribution of carbapenem-resistant ESKAPE bacteria in Lebanon, underscoring the significant public health risk posed by these pathogens. This highlights the urgent need to address the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in Lebanese environmental settings. IMPORTANCE: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) extremely burdens public health and increases morbid and mortal threats in Lebanon. While the majority of the studies in our country target antimicrobial resistance in clinical settings, fewer studies focus on antimicrobial resistance dissemination in the environment. The significance of our research is that it sheds light on the environment as a less explored yet equally crucial sector in the spread of AMR. Here, we isolated carbapenemase-producing bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii) that were categorized as multidrug resistant (MDR) from diverse environmental sources in multiple provinces across Lebanon. The finding of carbapenem-resistant bacteria carrying plasmids represents a potential risk due to the possible spread of resistance genes via horizontal gene transfer across the environment and hospital settings. This highly recommends the implementation of regular surveillance to monitor the spread of antimicrobial resistance among environmental bacteria, which consequently leads to its spread within communities and thus poses a great threat to human health.202540492734
1956190.9998Wounds of Companion Animals as a Habitat of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria That Are Potentially Harmful to Humans-Phenotypic, Proteomic and Molecular Detection. Skin wounds and their infections by antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) are very common in small animals, posing the risk of acquiring ARB by pet owners or antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) transfer to the owners' microbiota. The aim of this study was to identify the most common pathogens infecting wounds of companion animals, assess their antibiotic resistance, and determine the ARGs using culture-based, molecular, and proteomic methods. A total of 136 bacterial strains were isolated from wound swabs. Their species was identified using chromogenic media, followed by MALDI-TOF spectrometry. Antibiotic resistance was tested using disc diffusion, and twelve ARGs were detected using PCRs. The dominant species included Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (9.56%), E. coli, and E. faecalis (both n = 11, 8.09%). Enterobacterales were mostly resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (68.3% strains), all Pseudomonas were resistant to ceftazidime, piperacillin/tazobactam, imipenem, and tylosin, Acinetobacter were mostly resistant to tylosin (55.5%), all Enterococcus were resistant to imipenem, and 39.2% of Staphylococci were resistant to clindamycin. Among ARGs, strA (streptomycin resistance), sul3 (sulfonamide resistance), and blaTEM, an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase determinant, were the most frequent. The risk of ARB and ARG transfer between animals and humans causes the need to search for new antimicrobial therapies in future veterinary medicine.202438542095