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210100.9981Antibiotic resistance genes circulating in Nigeria: a systematic review and meta-analysis from the One Health perspective. BACKGROUND: The misuse of antibiotics in developing countries has created serious threats to public healthcare systems and reduced treatment options. Multidrug-resistant bacteria harbour antibiotic resistance genes that help them subdue the effectiveness of several available antibiotics. This review aimed to assess antimicrobial resistance genes circulating in Nigeria via a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was performed using five electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Search, and African Journals Online (AJOL). Articles related to antibiotic resistance genes in Nigeria, published between January 1, 2015 and October 31, 2024, were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used to assess the risk of bias. The meta-analysis for random effects was performed to determine the proportions and pooled prevalence of the resistance genes from the various One Health domains, as well as heterogeneity in the data, using R software (Version 4.3.3) and the metaprop package. RESULTS: Of the 762 articles retrieved, 56 (humans [n = 33], animals [n = 8], environment [n = 12], human/animal [n = 1], and human/animal/environment [n = 2]) from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria met the inclusion criteria. The extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) gene with the highest pooled prevalence was blaSHV (24.0% [95% CI: 12.0–44.0]), followed by blaCTX-M (23.0% [95% CI: 14.0–37.0]), and the least was blaTEM (18.0% [95% CI: 8.0–37.0]). Among the carbapenemase genes, blaKPC (33.0% [95% CI: 7.0–76.0]) was the most prevalent, followed by blaNDM (21.0% [95% CI: 9.0–41.0]), blaOXA (11.0% [95% CI: 2.0–46.0]) and the least was blaVIM (9.0% [95% CI: 3.0–26.0]). The mecA gene also had a high pooled prevalence (51.0% [95% CI: 14.0–86.0]). The pooled prevalence of the erm, sul, tet, and qnr genes ranged from 19.0% (95% CI: 8.0–38.0) to 27.0% (95% CI: 13.0–47.0). Some antibiotic resistance genes were shared among the three domains. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis has demonstrated the co-existence of antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria causing infection in Nigeria, via the One Health approach. There is a need for future research on the circulation of antibiotic resistance genes in developing countries using internationally approved approaches to track down this menace. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-025-02163-y.202540619397
94910.9980Molecular and clinical insights into extended-spectrum β-lactamase genes of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from neonatal sepsis in Ethiopia. BACKGROUND: Klebsiella bacterial strains harboring Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) enzymes are the primary culprits behind neonatal sepsis globally. These strains significantly impact clinical outcomes due to their multi-drug resistance patterns in local healthcare settings. In response to this spiraling threat, we studied the prevalence and clinical implications of ESBL-encoding genes in neonates hospitalized with confirmed sepsis. METHODS: A correlational study was conducted on 51 neonates diagnosed with sepsis caused by ESBL-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae at Jimma Medical Center spanning from May 2022 to July 2023. Antimicrobial resistance profiles of the bacterial isolates were determined using the Kirby-Bauer diffusion test, while multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) techniques were employed to identify resistance genes. The correlation between resistance genes and treatment outcomes was analyzed using the phi coefficient (φ) with a significance level below 0.05. The data management was executed through the utilization of WHONET and STATA software platforms. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 26 (50.9%) male and the remaining 25 (49.1%) female neonates, with diverse clinical characteristics. All 51 Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were 100% resistant to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and ceftriaxone, but showed varying resistance profiles ranging from 30.8% to meropenem to 94.2% to ceftazidime. Notably, all isolates demonstrated multidrug resistance, with 23% of cases showing resistance to seven different antimicrobial classes. The most prevalent resistance genes identified were bla(CTX-M) (96.1%), bla(TEM) (94.1%), and bla(SHV) (88.2%). The majority of isolates (94.1%) carried at least two resistance genes, such as bla(TEM) and bla(CTX) (94.1%), bla(TEM) and bla(SHV) (86.2%), and bla(CTX) and bla(SHV) (86.2%). Notably, 84.3% of the bacteria harbored the trio of bla(TEM), bla(CTX), and bla(SHV) resistance genes, and only the presence of bla(SHV) in monogenic (φ = 0.4, P = 0.01) or the trio of bla(TEM), bla(CTX), and bla(SHV) genes (φ = 0.3, P = 0.02) showed positive correlation with neonatal mortality. CONCLUSION: We observed a significant prevalence of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains among neonates. Moreover, ESBL-resistance genes were widespread, with the blaSHV gene showing a correlation with increased neonatal mortality. These findings emphasize the urgent need for enhanced infection prevention measures, robust antimicrobial resistance surveillance, innovative treatment strategies, antibiotic stewardship initiatives, further research into resistance transfer mechanisms as well as hierarchical predictors of neonatal mortality. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.202439695444
210420.9980A systematic review and meta-analysis on antibiotic resistance genes in Ghana. BACKGROUND: Addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a complex challenge, primarily because of the limited understanding of bacterial antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and the spread of these genes across different domains. To bridge this knowledge gap in Ghana, we undertook a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify and estimate the prevalence of circulating ARGs in bacteria isolated from human, animal, and environmental sources. METHODS: A thorough literature search was conducted across three major databases-Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus-to retrieve all relevant articles related to ARGs in Ghana from the inception of the databases to February 25, 2024. A risk-of-bias evaluation was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and the data analysis involved descriptive statistics and proportional meta-analysis. RESULTS: Of the 371 articles initially obtained, 38 met the inclusion criteria. These studies adequately covered Ghana geographically. The most prevalent ESBL gene identified was bla(CTX-M), with a prevalence of 31.6% (95% CI: 17.6-45.7), followed by bla(TEM) (19.5% [95% CI: 9.7-29.3]), and bla(SHV) (3.5% [95% CI: 0.3-6.6]). The pooled prevalence of carbapenemase genes ranged from 17.2% (95% CI: 6.9-27.6) for bla(NDM) to 10.3% (95% CI: 1.9-18.7) for bla(OXA). Additionally, other ARGs, including sul1, qnrS, gyrA, erm(B), and mecA, were detected, with prevalence ranging from 3.9% (95% CI: 0.0-8.5) to 16.4% (95% CI: 3.1-29.8). Several ARGs were shared across human, animal, and environmental sources. CONCLUSION: This review revealed that bacteria obtained from human, animal, and environmental samples in Ghana shared genes associated with AMR. This finding provides evidence on the interconnection of AMR across these three domains. Horizontal gene transfer, which enables the dissemination of ARGs between genetically diverse bacteria, can occur, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to addressing antimicrobial resistance in Ghana.202540075357
209930.9980Antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance-genes in drinking water source in north Shoa zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia. BACKGROUND: The growing number of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in a range of environments poses a serious challenge to infectious disease prevention. Good water quality is critical to human health and has a direct impact on a country's socio-economic growth. Therefore, assessing the bacteriological quality of drinking water provides benchmark data and provides insight into the development of further protection and treatment measures. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1, 2022, to September 31, 2023, in the diarrhea hotspot areas of North Shewa Zone (Minjar-Shenkora and Mojana-Wedera districts). Water samples were collected from drinking water sources (hand-pumps, boreholes, wells, spring water and ponds) to assess the quality following WHO guidelines. The collected water samples were processed for bacterial isolation, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and detection of antimicrobial resistance genes. Data were entered and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. RESULTS: A total of (49/138, 35.5%) bacteria were isolated from 138 drinking water samples, with a positive rate of (41/138, 29.7%). Among the isolates, (16/138, 11.6%) were Staphylococcus aureus while (33/138, 23.9%) were members of Enterobacteriaceae. Relatively high resistance rate among all isolates were observed for the most prescribed antibiotics in Ethiopia, including erythromycin, cotrimoxazole, doxycycline, ceftriaxone, gentamicin, and chloramphenicol. However, a low resistance was observed for early introduced antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and recently introduced antibiotics such as cefotaxime, ceftazidime, imipenem, and meropenem. Among the 49 bacteria isolates, (32/49, 65.3%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens while (12/49, 24.5%) were ESβL producers. Different ESβL genes were detected in most bacterial isolates. The predominant ESβL genes were blaCTX-M-gp8/25 (6/33, 18.2%), blaCTX-M-gp9 (5/33, 15.2%), and blaCTX-M-gp1 (5/33, 15.2%). CONCLUSION: The result of this study suggests that most water sources in the study area were contaminated by various bacterial species that are resistant to different antibiotics. Various ESβL resistance genes have also been detected. Therefore, regular sanitary inspection and bacteriological analysis should be mandatory to protect drinking water sources from contamination and the persistence of resistant bacteria.202439310913
97040.9980First detection of resistance genes and virulence factors in Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp in Togo: the case of imported chicken and frozen by-products. BACKGROUND: The increasing importation of frozen poultry into Togo raises concerns about the microbiological safety and antimicrobial resistance of associated pathogens. Despite the public health risks posed by resistant foodborne bacteria, data on resistance profiles, resistance genes, and virulence factors in imported frozen chickens in Togo remain limited. This study aims to address this gap by characterizing these factors in pathogenic strains isolated from imported poultry. METHODS: A cross-sectional prospective study was undertaken to assess the microbiological quality and resistance profiles of imported poultry products. Samples were collected from seven cold storage facilities located within the Golfe prefecture of the Greater Lomé metropolitan area. In total, 285 poultry meat and cut samples were analyzed following standardized AFNOR microbiological protocols. Isolated Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli strains underwent antibiotic susceptibility testing using the disk diffusion method, adhering to the guidelines established by the Comité de l'Antibiogramme de la Société Française de Microbiologie (CA-SFM). Furthermore, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were employed to identify genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors in the bacterial isolates. RESULTS: Microbiological analysis revealed a prevalence of Escherichia coli of 32.98%, while Salmonella spp. were detected in 2.46% of the samples. Antibiotic susceptibility testing demonstrated resistance among isolates to several beta-lactams and quinolones. Specifically, resistance to cefoxitin was observed in 14.28% of strains, whereas resistance to cefalexin, cefuroxime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, and nalidixic acid was uniformly detected at a prevalence of 28.57%. Among the E. coli isolates, 9.44% exhibited multidrug resistance to both beta-lactams and quinolones. Molecular characterization identified class 1 integrons in 17.6% of isolates, with gene cassettes predominantly harboring aadA1 and dfr1, which encode resistance to streptomycin, spectinomycin, and trimethoprim. Notably, class 2 and class 3 integrons were absent. Additionally, the plasmid-mediated qnrB gene was detected in 5.9% of isolates. The study also documented the emergence of resistance to third-generation cephalosporins (C3G), primarily associated with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production, as evidenced by the presence of blaCTX (35.3%) and blaTEM (58.8%) genes among ESBL-producing strains. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals a notable presence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli and Salmonella in imported frozen poultry in Togo, highlighting significant public health risks. The findings call for improved surveillance and stricter control measures to prevent the spread of resistant pathogens via the food supply. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.202540457192
271250.9979Antibiotic Resistance Profiles of Bacteria Isolated from Hotspot Environments in Bahir Dar City, Northwestern Ethiopia. BACKGROUND: Wastes generated from hotspot environments contain a wide range of antibiotics and pathogens that play a significant role in the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment. This study was carried out to isolate bacteria from hotspot environments and determine their resistance profiles to commonly used antibiotics in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2020 to June 2021 in Bahir Dar City. A total of 126 waste and wastewater samples were aseptically collected, transported, and processed for bacteriological isolation and susceptibility testing following standard procedures. RESULTS: A total of 411 bacterial isolates were recovered and the highest value of 122 (29.7%) bacterial isolates were obtained from medical wastewater samples, and the most frequently isolated bacteria were assigned to the species Escherichia coli with 82 strains (19.5%). The results revealed that the highest resistance profile of 69 (95.8%) was obtained in Staphylococcus aureus against ampicillin and 46 (86.8%) Citrobacter spp. against tetracycline. Two hundred and sixteen (52.6%) of bacteria showed multi-drug resistance and the highest multi-drug resistance was observed in Pseudomonas spp. 47 (65.3%), followed by Escherichia coli 51 (62.2%). The highest resistance profile of 12 (85.7%) and 60 (74.1%) for tetracycline were obtained from beef waste and wastewater and medical wastewater samples. The highest multi-drug resistance was recorded in isolates isolated from beef waste and wastewater samples 11 (64.7%), followed by medical wastewater samples 84 (64.1%). Even though a higher (>0.2) multi-antibiotic resistance index was found in all hotspot environments, the highest multi-antibiotic resistance index (0.477) was recorded in bacteria isolated from medical wastewater. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that wastes generated from hotspot environments and released in the environment contain large numbers of antibiotic-resistant, multidrug, extensively, and pan-drug-resistant bacteria. Proper waste management strategies should be established.202235785260
135460.9978The prevalence, antibiotic resistance and multilocus sequence typing of colistin-resistant bacteria isolated from Penaeus vannamei farms in earthen ponds and HDPE film-lined ponds in China. The aquaculture environment, especially the culture ponds and aquaculture products, is considered to be an important reservoir of colistin resistance genes. However, systematic investigations of colistin resistance in Penaeus vannamei farming in different culture modes are scarce. In this study, a total of 93 non-duplicated samples were collected from P. vannamei farms in five cities in China from 2019 to 2021. The prevalence, antibiotic resistance and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of colistin-resistant bacteria were measured and analysed. The results showed that among the 1601 isolates in P. vannamei and its environmental samples, the pollution of colistin-resistant bacteria was serious (the overall prevalence was 37.3% and 28.8%, respectively), regardless of the earthen pond or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film-lined pond. Among 533 isolates, the prevalence of mobile colistin resistance (mcr) genes, mcr-1, was the highest (60%, 320/533), followed by mcr-4 (1.5%, 8/533), mcr-8 (0.9%, 5/533), mcr-10 (0.6%, 3/533) and mcr-7 (0.4%, 2/533). The prevalence of mcr-1 in earthen ponds was significantly higher than that in HDPE film-lined ponds (67.5% vs. 49.1%, p < .001). The dominant strain carrying mcr-1 was Bacillus spp. (54.1%, 173/320), followed by Enterobacter spp. (8.1%, 26/320), Staphylococcus spp. (6.3%, 20/320) and Aeromonas spp. (5.3%, 17/320). The antibiotic resistance profiles of 173 Bacillus spp. varied among different sampling locations and culture types. These isolates were highly resistant to cefepime, ceftriaxone, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and ceftiofur (>45%), and multidrug-resistant isolates were common (62.4%, 108/173). Sequence type (ST) 26 (37/66, 56%) was found to be the most prevalent ST in mcr-1-positive Bacillus cereus isolated from the aquaculture environment. In summary, our study pointed out that it is necessary to continuously monitor antibiotic usage and its residues regardless of the pond types, especially with regard to critical drugs such as colistin.202235841601
210370.9978Antibiotic resistance in hospital wastewater in West Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BACKGROUND: The occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) has become a global menace and therefore increases morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. Globally, hospital wastewater (HWW) has been identified as a significant source of antibiotic-resistant elements. OBJECTIVES: This review aims to systematically review and to perform meta-analyses from evidence on antibiotic resistance studies in HWW in West Africa. METHODS: The review was conducted in compliance with PRISMA and included studies published between 1990 and 2024 in West Africa from the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Eligible studies that characterized resistant bacteria, genes, or antibiotic residues in HWW were included. Meta-analyses for resistant bacteria and genes as well risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale were conducted. RESULTS: Out of 23 studies reviewed, resistant bacteria were reported in 39% (E. coli), 26% (K. pneumoniae), and 17% (P. aeruginosa), while 17 studies reported ARGs, with blaTEM (29%), blaOXA- 48 (18%), blaSHV (18%), and mecA (18%) being the most common. Only 4% and 9% of studies focused on toxin genes and antibiotic residues, respectively. Meta-analysis showed pooled prevalence rates for resistant bacteria: E. coli 42.6% (95% CI: 26.7%-60.3%) and K. pneumoniae 32.1% (95% Cl: 28.8%- 36.5%), and ARGs: blaTEM 76.0% (95% CI = 64.6%-84.6%) and blaSHV 59.3% (95% CI = 19.5%-89.8%). CONCLUSION: This systematic review highlights significant findings of high levels of ARGs and ARBs of public health concern in HWW in West Africa. This highlights the need to improve upon the monitoring of antibiotic resistance and treatment of HWW in West Africa.202540217451
218280.9978Antibiotic resistance and virulence profiles of Proteus mirabilis isolated from broiler chickens at abattoir in South Africa. BACKGROUND: Proteus mirabilis has been identified as an important zoonotic pathogen, causing several illnesses such as diarrhoea, keratitis and urinary tract infections. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the prevalence of P. mirabilis in broiler chickens, its antibiotic resistance (AR) patterns, ESBL-producing P. mirabilis and the presence of virulence genes. METHODS: A total of 26 isolates were confirmed as P. mirabilis from 480 pooled broiler chicken faecal samples by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disk diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibacterial susceptibility test, while nine virulence genes and 26 AR genes were also screened by PCR. RESULTS: All 26 P. mirabilis isolates harboured the ireA (siderophore receptors), ptA, and zapA (proteases), ucaA, pmfA, atfA, and mrpA (fimbriae), hlyA and hpmA (haemolysins) virulence genes. The P. mirabilis isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin (62%) and levofloxacin (54%), while 8 (30.7%) of the isolates were classified as multidrug resistant (MDR). PCR analysis identified the bla(CTX-M) gene (62%), bla(TEM) (58%) and bla(CTX-M-2) (38%). Further screening for AMR genes identified mcr-1, cat1, cat2, qnrA, qnrD and mecA, 12%, 19%, 12%, 54%, 27% and 8%, respectively for P. mirabilis isolates. The prevalence of the integron integrase intI1 and intI2 genes was 43% and 4%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The rise of ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin resistance, as well as MDR strains, is a public health threat that points to a challenge in the treatment of infections caused by these zoonotic bacteria. Furthermore, because ESBL-producing P. mirabilis has the potential to spread to humans, the presence of bla(CTX) (-M) -producing P. mirabilis in broilers should be kept under control. This is the first study undertaken to isolate P. mirabilis from chicken faecal samples and investigate its antibiotic resistance status as well as virulence profiles in South Africa.202438357843
272090.9978Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of antimicrobial resistance in Enterococcus spp. Isolated from the skin microbiota of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) in Southeastern United States. BACKGROUND: Aquaculture systems may contribute to the emergence and persistence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria, posing risks to animal, environmental, and human health. This study characterized the phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles of Enterococcus spp. isolated from the skin microbiota of 125 channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) harvested from two earthen ponds in Alabama, USA. METHODS: Skin swabs from the body of channel catfish were enriched in Enterococcosel broth and cultured on Enterococcosel agar at 28 °C for 24 h. Isolates were confirmed using Biolog Gen III and VITEK(®)2, and antimicrobial susceptibility was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Thirty-five randomly sampled isolates underwent whole-genome sequencing for genotypic characterization. RESULTS: 36% of isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (resistance to ≥ 3 antimicrobial classes), with the highest resistance rates observed for ampicillin (44.8%), rifampicin (42.4%), and tetracycline (38.4%). The most prevalent resistance genes were aac(6')-Iid (65.7%), aac(6')-Ii (22.9%), efmA, and msr(C) (20.0% each). Plasmid replicons rep1 and repUS15 frequently co-occurred with resistance genes. Biofilm-associated genes, including efaA, fsrA, fsrB, sprE, ebpABC, ace, and scm, were commonly detected. Multivariate analyses (PERMANOVA, PCA) revealed no significant species-level differences in resistance burden or biofilm gene carriage, indicating similar resistance and virulence gene carriage across species in this dataset. CONCLUSIONS: The skin microbiota of pond-raised catfish harbors antimicrobial-resistant Enterococcus spp. with mobile resistance elements and biofilm-associated virulence factors, suggesting a potential role in AMR persistence within aquaculture settings. These findings support the need for targeted AMR surveillance in fish-associated microbiota as part of integrated One Health strategies.202540760424
940100.9978Acquisition of multidrug-resistant bacteria and colistin resistance genes in French medical students on internships abroad. BACKGROUND: Acquisition of multidrug resistant bacteria (MDR) and colistin resistance genes by international travellers has been demonstrated. Studies conducted in medical students during internships abroad are scant. METHODS: Nasopharyngeal, rectal, and vaginal swabs samples were collected from 382 French medical students before and after travel to investigate the acquisition of MDR bacteria. The bacterial diversity in the samples was assessed by culture on selective media. We also genetically characterised the isolates of MDR bacteria including Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriacae (CPE) using the real-time polymerase chain reaction method. The samples were collected from 293 students and were investigated for mcr colistin-resistance genes using RT-PCR directly on the samples, followed by conventional PCR and sequencing. RESULTS: A proportion of 29.3% (112/382) of the participants had acquired ESBL-E and 2.6% (10/382) had acquired CPE. The most common species and ESBL-E encoding gene were Escherichia coli (125/127 isolates, 98.4%) and bla(CTX-M-A) (121/127, 95.3%), respectively. A proportion of 6.8% (20/293) of the participants had acquired mcr-1 genes, followed by mcr-3 (1/293, 0.3%) and mcr-8 (1/293, 0.3%). We found that taking part in humanitarian missions to orphanages (aRR = 2.01, p < 0.0001), being in contact with children during travel (aRR = 1.78, p = 0.006), the primary destination of travel being Vietnam (aRR = 2.15, p < 0.0001) and north India (aRR = 2.41, p = 0.001), using antibiotics during travel (aRR = 1.77, p = 0.01), and studying in 2018 (aRR = 1.55, p = 0.03) were associated with the acquisition of ESBL-E. When the primary destination of travel was Vietnam (aRR = 2.74, p < 0.0001) and the year of study was 2018 (aRR = 1.93, p < 0.002), this was associated with acquisition of colistin resistance genes. CONCLUSION: Medical students are at a potential risk of acquiring ESBL-E, CPE and colistin resistance genes. A number of risk factors have been identified, which may be used to develop targeted preventive measures.202133248262
2725110.9978Hygiene practices and antibiotic resistance among dental and medical students: a comparative study. PURPOSE: Healthcare students' hand and smartphone hygiene is critical due to potential pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria transmission. This study evaluates hygiene practices in medical and dental students at Kuwait University, exploring antibiotic resistance gene prevalence. METHODS: Swab samples were collected from the hands and smartphones of 32 medical and 30 dental students. These samples were cultured on Columbia Blood Agar and McConkey Agar plates to quantify bacterial colony-forming units (CFUs). The extracted DNA from these colonies underwent RT-PCR to identify antibiotic resistance genes, including tem-1, shv, blaZ, and mecA. Additionally, a questionnaire addressing hygiene practices was distributed post-sample collection. RESULTS: Medical students exhibited more frequent hand hygiene compared to dental students (P ≤ 0.0001). Although significantly fewer bacterial CFUs were found on medical students' smartphones (mean = 35 ± 53) than dental students' (mean = 89 ± 129) (P ≤ 0.05), no significant differences were observed in CFU counts on their hands (medical: mean = 17 ± 37; dental: mean = 96 ± 229). Detection of at least one of the targeted antibiotic resistance genes on medical (89% hands, 52% smartphones) and dental students' (79% hands, 63% smartphones) was not statistically significant. However, the prevalence of two genes, tem-1 and shv, was significantly higher on medical students' hands (78% and 65%, respectively) than on dental students' hands (32% and 28%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Clinically significant prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes were found on medical and dental students' hands and smartphones, emphasizing the importance of ongoing education regarding hand hygiene and smartphone disinfection. This continuous reinforcement in the curriculum is crucial to minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.202438514584
2722120.9978Multidrug resistance assessment of indoor air in Portuguese long-term and acute healthcare settings. BACKGROUND: Knowledge about air as a pool of pathogens and multidrug resistance (MDR) in healthcare units apart from hospitals is scarce. AIM: To investigate these features in a Portuguese long-term healthcare unit (LTHU) and a central hospital (CH). METHODS: Air samples were collected and their microbial load (bacteria and fungi) determined. Bacterial isolates were randomly selected for further characterization, particularly identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and polymerase chain reaction screening of extended-spectrum β-lactamases, carbapenemase genes and mecA gene, with RAPD profile assessment of positive results of the latter. FINDINGS: A total of 192 samples were collected (LTHU: 86; CH: 106). LTHU showed a statistically significantly higher bacterial load. CH bacteria and fungi loads in inpatient sites were statistically significantly lower than in outpatients or non-patient sites. A total of 164 bacterial isolates were identified (MALDI-TOF: 78; presumptively: 86), the majority belonging to Staphylococcus genus (LTHU: 42; CH: 57). The highest antimicrobial resistance rate was to erythromycin and vancomycin the least, in both settings. Eighteen isolates (11%) were classified as MDR (LTHU: 9; CH: 9), with 7 MDR Staphylococcus isolates (LTHU: 4; CH: 3) presenting mecA. Nine non-MDR Staphylococcus (LTHU: 5; CH: 4) also presented mecA. CONCLUSION: The current study highlights that healthcare unit indoor air can be an important pool of MDR pathogens and antimicrobial resistance genes. Also, LTHUs appear to have poorer air quality than hospitals, as well as supportive areas compared to curative care areas. This may suggest possible yet unknown routes of infection that need to be explored.202539983920
1139130.9978Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance in Select Bacteria From Retail Seafood-United States, 2019. In 2019, the United States National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) surveyed raw salmon, shrimp, and tilapia from retail grocery outlets in eight states to assess the prevalence of bacterial contamination and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the isolates. Prevalence of the targeted bacterial genera ranged among the commodities: Salmonella (0%-0.4%), Aeromonas (19%-26%), Vibrio (7%-43%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.8%-2.3%), Staphylococcus (23%-30%), and Enterococcus (39%-66%). Shrimp had the highest odds (OR: 2.8, CI: 2.0-3.9) of being contaminated with at least one species of these bacteria, as were seafood sourced from Asia vs. North America (OR: 2.7; CI: 1.8-4.7) and Latin America and the Caribbean vs. North America (OR: 1.6; CI: 1.1-2.3) and seafood sold at the counter vs. sold frozen (OR: 2.1; CI: 1.6-2.9). Isolates exhibited pan-susceptibility (Salmonella and P. aeruginosa) or low prevalence of resistance (<10%) to most antimicrobials tested, with few exceptions. Seafood marketed as farm-raised had lower odds of contamination with antimicrobial resistant bacteria compared to wild-caught seafood (OR: 0.4, CI: 0.2-0.7). Antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) were detected for various classes of medically important antimicrobials. Clinically relevant ARGs included carbapenemases (bla (IMI-2), bla (NDM-1)) and extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs; bla (CTX-M-55)). This population-scale study of AMR in seafood sold in the United States provided the basis for NARMS seafood monitoring, which began in 2020.202235814688
2100140.9978Prevalence of Bacteria and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Hospital Water and Surfaces. Purpose Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a worldwide environmental and public health problem, causing more than 250,000 deaths per year. Unregulated usage, unsafe hospital practices, and misuse in veterinary contribute to the development of multidrug resistance in various bacteria. Hospital water was hypothesized to be a hotspot for AMR transmission because of (1) increased exposure to antibiotic load, (2) poor drainage and sanitation system, (3) interaction between environmental and clinical microbes. The purpose of the research was to assess the biodiversity and AMR in hospital tap waters. Methodology In this study, the microflora of the hospital tap water and hospital surfaces was observed by obtaining water samples from the intensive care unit (ICU), surgical wards, and washrooms. These were processed through membrane filtration and spread on seven different media (Aeromonas Medium, Azide Dextrose Agar, MacConkey Agar, Mannitol Salt Agar, Pseudomonas Cetrimide Agar, Salmonella Shigella Agar, and Thiosulfate Citrate Bile Salts Sucrose Agar). Surface samples were collected from the faucet, basin, and drain and directly spread on the media plates. Isolates were identified using standard bacteriological and biochemical tests. Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was performed using 21 antibiotic disks from 10 different antibiotic classes. They included ampicillin (AMP), amoxicillin (AML), piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP), cefipime (FEP), cefoxitin (FOX), ceftazidime (CAZ), ceftriaxone (CRO), imipenem (IMP), meropenem (MEM), ciprofloxacin (CIP), moxifloxacin (MXF), levofloxacin (LEV), amikacin (AK), gentamicin (CN), tigecycline (TGC), aztreonam (ATM), erythromycin (E), clindamycin (DA), rifampicin (RD), colistin (CT), and chloramphenicol (C). The results were interpreted according to EUCAST guidelines for the antibiogram of the isolates; 38 isolates were selected out of 162 based on different parameters for genotyping and detection of six beta-lactamase genes (blaSHV, blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaOXA, blaKPC, blaNDM). Results Among these 162 isolates, 82 were obtained from water sources and 80 were collected from surfaces (faucet, basin, drain). The isolates included a variety of bacteria including Aeromonas spp. (20%), Klebsiella spp. (13%), Staphylococcus aureus (13%), Pseudomonas spp.(10%), Escherichia coli (9%), Vibrio spp. (8%), Enterococcus spp. (6%), Shigella spp. (6%), Salmonella spp. (4%), Acinetobacter spp. (3%), Staphylococcus epidermitis (3%), Streptococci spp. (2%), Proteus spp. (1%), Citrobacter spp. (1%), and Serratia spp. (1%). A diverse range of microbes were identified including clinically relevant bacteria, which shows that the urban water cycle is already contaminated with multidrug-resistant microflora of the hospital settings. Macrolide and lincosamide showed the highest resistance followed by penicillin, monobactam, and cephalosporins. blaSHV and blaTEM were prevalent in samples. blaNDM was also found which manifests as a real threat since it causes resistance against carbapenems and colistin, antibiotics reserved as a last resort against infections. Conclusions This study presented the ground reality of antibiotic resistance in Pakistan and how its subsequent spread poses a great threat to the strides made in the field of medicine and public health. Strict regulations regarding antibiotic usage, hospital effluent, and urban water sanitation must be imposed to curb the devastating effects of this increasing phenomenon.202134790487
848150.9977Molecular Characterization of Escherichia coli Causing Urinary Tract Infections Through Next-Generation Sequencing: A Comprehensive Analysis of Serotypes, Sequence Types, and Antimicrobial and Virulence Genes. Introduction An enormous increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among bacteria isolated from human clinical specimens contributed to treatment failures. Increased surveillance through next-generation sequencing (NGS) or whole genome sequencing (WGS) could facilitate the study of the epidemiology of drug-resistant bacterial strains, resistance genes, and other virulence determinants they are potentially carrying. Methods This study included 30 Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates obtained from patients suffering from urinary tract infections (UTIs) attending Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Karimnagar, India. All bacterial isolates were identified, and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were determined through conventional microbiological techniques and confirmed by automated systems. All the isolates were investigated using NGS to identify genes coding for resistance, such as extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), metallo-beta-lactamases, and virulence genes. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was used to understand the prevalent strain types, and serotyping was carried out to evaluate the type of O (cell wall antigen) and H (flagellar antigen) serotypes carried by the isolates. Results The conventional antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that 15 (50%) isolates were resistant to imipenem (IPM), 10 (33.33%) were resistant to amikacin (AK), 13 (43.33%) were resistant to piperacillin-tazobactam (PTZ), 17 (56.66%) were resistant to cephalosporins, and 14 (46.66%) were resistant to nitrofurantoin (NIT). Among the isolates, 26 (86.66%) had revealed the presence of multiple antibiotic-resistant genes with evidence of at least one gene coding for beta-lactamase resistance. There was a high prevalence of bla(CTX-M )(19/30, 63.33%) genes, followed by bla(TEM) and bla(OXA-1). The bla(NDM-5) gene was found in three isolates (3/30, 10%). The virulence genes identified in the present study were iutA, sat, iss, and papC, among others. The E. coli serotype found predominantly belonged to O25:H4 (5, 16.66%), followed by O102:H6 (4, 13.33%). A total of 16 MLST variants were identified among the examined samples. Of the MLST-based sequence types (STs) identified, ST-131 (7, 23.33%) was the predominant one, followed by ST-167 (3, 10%) and ST-12 (3, 10%). Conclusions The study results demonstrated that the E. coli strains isolated from patients suffering from UTIs potentially carried antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes and belonged to different strain types based on MLST. Careful evaluation of bacterial strains using molecular analyses such as NGS could facilitate an improved understanding of bacterial antibiotic resistance and its virulence potential. This could enable physicians to choose appropriate antimicrobial agents and contribute to better patient management, thereby preventing the emergence and spread of drug-resistant bacteria.202438576671
5267160.9977Diversity and antibiotic resistance of cultivable bacteria in bulk tank milk from dairy farms in Shandong Province, China. INTRODUCTION: This study systematically analyzed bacterial diversity and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles in bulk tank milk from five dairy farms (n = 30) in Shandong Province, China, to assess public health risks associated with microbial contamination and provide critical data for regional quality control and AMR risk assessment in dairy production systems. METHODS: Total bacterial counts were quantified, revealing significant inter-farm variation (P < 0.05) with a range of 3.94-6.68 log CFU/mL. Among 129 bacterial isolates, genus-level dominance and species prevalence were identified. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) against 10 agents was performed using integrated resistance criteria combining Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards and epidemiological cutoff values (ECOFFs). Nine resistance genes targeting seven antibiotic classes were detected via PCR. RESULTS: The highest resistance rate was observed for sulfadiazine (53.2%) and the lowest for levofloxacin (6.0%). Multidrug resistance was detected in 23% (20/87) of isolates, with 14 strains meeting ECOFFs-based resistance criteria. PCR analysis showed sul1 (70.5%) and ant(4')-Ia (54.3%) as the most prevalent resistance genes, while mcr-1, lnu (B), and bla (NDM-1) were absent in all isolates. Regional resistance variations correlated significantly with farm management practices. DISCUSSION: These findings underscore the impact of historical antibiotic use on AMR dissemination. Enhanced AMR surveillance in raw milk, improved antibiotic stewardship, and targeted interventions are crucial to mitigate public health risks from microbial contamination and horizontal gene transfer of resistance determinants.202540771950
2132170.9977Prevailing Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Hospitalized Patients with Urinary Tract Infections in a Vietnamese Teaching Hospital (2014 - 2021). PURPOSE: In a Vietnamese teaching hospital, this study examined the prevalence and patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of common bacteria isolated from hospitalized patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) between 2014 and 2021. METHODS: From 4060 urine samples collected, common pathogens were isolated using quantitative culture on brilliance UTI Clarity agar and blood agar. Bacterial identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and multidrug resistance (MDR) classification followed standardized techniques. Bacteria with a frequency of less than 2% were excluded. Statistical analysis was performed using R software, with the chi-square test applied and significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Of 4060 urine samples collected, 892 (22.0%) had positive results for common infections. Gram-negative bacteria predominated (591/892; 66.3%), with Escherichia coli being the most prevalent (336/892; 37.7%). Enterococcus spp. (152/892; 17.0%) was the leading Gram-positive pathogen. Some antibiotics had significant resistance rates, especially in Gram-negative bacteria, with ampicillin having the greatest resistance rate (92.8%). Carbapenems and nitrofurantoin remained generally effective. Among Gram-positive bacteria, high resistance was seen for macrolides ranging from 85.5% (azithromycin) to 89.8% (erythromycin), and for tetracyclines, ranging from 0% (teicoplanin) to 85.2% (tetracycline). There was no resistance to tigecycline and teicoplanin, indicating their potential efficacy against multidrug resistance (MDR) bacteria causing UTIs. MDR rates were higher in Gram-negative bacteria (64.8% versus 43.5%), with Klebsiella pneumoniae having the highest rate (78.7%). CONCLUSION: This study underscores the urgent need for ongoing surveillance of AMR patterns in Vietnam and emphasizes the significance of efficient infection prevention methods, prudent use of antibiotics, and targeted interventions to combat antimicrobial resistance.202539911566
2761180.9977First reported detection of the mobile colistin resistance genes, mcr-8 and mcr-9, in the Irish environment. The emergence and dissemination of mobile colistin resistance (mcr) genes across the globe poses a significant threat to public health, as colistin remains one of the last line treatment options for multi-drug resistant infections. Environmental samples (157 water and 157 wastewater) were collected in Ireland between 2018 and 2020. Samples collected were assessed for the presence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria using Brilliance ESBL, Brilliance CRE, mSuperCARBA and McConkey agar containing a ciprofloxacin disc. All water and integrated constructed wetland influent and effluent samples were filtered and enriched in buffered peptone water prior to culture, while wastewater samples were cultured directly. Isolates collected were identified via MALDI-TOF, were tested for susceptibility to 16 antimicrobials, including colistin, and subsequently underwent whole genome sequencing. Overall, eight mcr positive Enterobacterales (one mcr-8 and seven mcr-9) were recovered from six samples (freshwater (n = 2), healthcare facility wastewater (n = 2), wastewater treatment plant influent (n = 1) and integrated constructed wetland influent (piggery farm waste) (n = 1)). While the mcr-8 positive K. pneumoniae displayed resistance to colistin, all seven mcr-9 harbouring Enterobacterales remained susceptible. All isolates demonstrated multi-drug resistance and through whole genome sequencing analysis, were found to harbour a wide variety of antimicrobial resistance genes i.e., 30 ± 4.1 (10-61), including the carbapenemases, bla(OXA-48) (n = 2) and bla(NDM-1) (n = 1), which were harboured by three of the isolates. The mcr genes were located on IncHI2, IncFIIK and IncI1-like plasmids. The findings of this study highlight potential sources and reservoirs of mcr genes in the environment and illustrate the need for further research to gain a better understanding of the role the environment plays in the persistence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance.202336906027
2183190.9977Prevalence and multidrug resistance of Enterococcus species isolated from chickens at slaughterhouses in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. BACKGROUND AND AIM: Enterococcus is a commensal bacteria found in humans and animals, which can cause human nosocomial infections. One of the most contaminated enterococcal sources is poultry meat. Therefore, this study estimated the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profile of Enterococcus from chickens and their meat products at local slaughterhouses in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2021 to March 2022, 558 samples from 279 cloacal swabs and breast meat were collected from 31 local slaughterhouses in the area. Then, the samples were screened for Enterococcus using modified de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe agar. Next, selected Gram-positive, catalase-negative, and cocci-shaped colonies were investigated for enterococcal confirmation using Enterococcosel Agar (EA). We also cultivated the samples directly on EA. However, the disk diffusion method was used to investigate positive Enterococcus resistance profiles to 16 antimicrobial agents. Finally, selected phenotypic multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterococcus isolates were further assessed to identify AMR genes by polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Investigations showed that the prevalence of Enterococcus isolates from the chicken cloacal swabs and meat samples were 29.75% (83/279) and 28.32% (78/279), respectively. Most Enterococcus positive isolates were resistant to colistin, followed by cefoxitin, cephalexin, and streptomycin. These isolates also showed a prevalence of MDR species (65.22%; 105/161) and 66 patterns. Furthermore, selected MDR Enterococcus (MDRE) from cloacal swabs and breast meat were positive for the resistant extended-spectrum beta-lactamase TEM genes at 71.43% (20/28) and 78.26% (18/23), respectively, whereas other AMR genes detected in the selected MDR enterococci from the cloacal swabs and breast meat were beta-lactamase TEM (bla (TEM) [0%, 1.96%]), Class 1 integrase (intI1 [14.28%, 0%]), colistin (mrc-1 [3.57%, 0%]), and vancomycin (vanA [14.28%, 0%]). CONCLUSION: This study indicated that phenotypic MDRE correlated with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase TEM gene presence, leading to an AMR reservoir that can be transferred to other bacteria.202236590124