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Neurolisteriosis, a common disease of small ruminants, is most often caused by Listeria monocytogenes. Here we describe 25 cases of caprine neurolisteriosis diagnosed in our laboratory over a 5-y period and compare our fluorescent antibody test (FAT) results with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for diagnostic confirmation. Neurohistologic changes consistent with neurolisteriosis affected the pons in all cases, extending rostrally to the mesencephalon in 6 cases, caudally to the medulla oblongata in 6 cases, and/or dorsally to the cerebellum in 4 cases. Acute inflammatory changes were observed in 17 cases, and included neuroparenchymal microabscesses, neuronal necrosis and neuronophagia, axonal swelling, microgliosis and astrogliosis, and perivascular neutrophils with macrophages, lymphocytes, and plasma cells that occasionally extended to the leptomeninges. Subacute-to-chronic changes (8 cases) consisted of neuroparenchymal and perivascular clusters of macrophages with rare neutrophils, lymphocytes, and plasma cells admixed with glial nodules. Bacterial bacilli were observed within neutrophils or macrophages in H&E-stained tissue sections in 4 cases. Gram stain highlighted gram-positive bacilli in 13 cases. Neurolisteriosis was confirmed by FAT in 2 cases, by IHC in 19 cases, and by PCR in 20 cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native valve endocarditis owing to Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus) is extremely rare and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. We present a case of a 44-year old male patient, a coronary artery disease (CAD) case with a stent in situ with pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO). He started becoming febrile following placement of stent and continued to remain febrile for duration of five months before coming to our centre. Echocardiogram showed vegetations on the aortic valve and paired blood cultures grew M. abscessus. Antibiotics including Clarithromycin were added to his treatment and a valve replacement was planned. The patient underwent valve replacement, however succumbed to the illness despite best efforts. It is difficult to diagnose M. abscessus in Gram stain as they appear as diphtheroids and may be interpreted as contaminants. Even an accurate diagnosis makes this organism difficult to treat. Early surgical intervention along with aggressive antibiotic therapy is recommended for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arquivos Brasileiros de Oftalmologia is the property of Arquivos Brasileiros de Oftalmologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

To evaluate the diagnostic value of histopathological examination of ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy samples in extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB). This study was conducted at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center. A total of 115 patients underwent ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy, followed by MGIT 960 culture (culture), smear, GeneXpert MTB/RIF (Xpert), and histopathological examination. These assays were performed to evaluate their effectiveness in diagnosing EPTB in comparison to two different diagnostic criteria: liquid culture and composite reference standard (CRS). When CRS was used as the reference standard, the sensitivity and specificity of culture, smear, Xpert, and histopathological examination were (44.83%, 89.29%), (51.72%, 89.29%), (70.11%, 96.43%), and (85.06%, 82.14%), respectively. Based on liquid culture tests, the sensitivity and specificity of smear, Xpert, and pathological examination were (66.67%, 72.60%), (83.33%, 63.01%), and (92.86%, 45.21%), respectively. Histopathological examination showed the highest sensitivity but lowest specificity. Further, we found that the combination of Xpert and histopathological examination showed a sensitivity of 90.80% and a specificity of 89.29%. Ultrasound-guided puncture sampling is safe and effective for the diagnosis of EPTB. Compared with culture, smear, and Xpert, histopathological examination showed higher sensitivity but lower specificity. The combination of histopathology with Xpert showed the best performance characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbapenemase producing gram-negative bacteria (GNB) has become a huge problem in majority of tertiary care centers worldwide. They are associated with very high morbidity and mortality rates, especially when they cause invasive infections. Therefore, rapid detection of these organisms is very important for prompt and adequate antibiotic therapy as well as infection control. The aim of this study was rapid detection of carbapenemase genes and thereby likely carbapenem resistance, 24–48 hours in advance, directly from the positive-flagged blood culture bottles using CHROMagar and Xpert® Carba-R. Aspirate from positively flagged blood culture bottles was subjected to differential centrifuge. All gram-negative bacilli on gram stain from the deposit were processed in Xpert® Carba-R and inoculated on CHROMagar. The presence of genes and growth on CHROMagar was compared with carbapenem resistance on VITEK-2 Compact. A total of 119 GNB isolates were processed. One or more of the carbapenemase genes were detected in 80 isolates. On comparison with VITEK-2 result, 92 samples showed concordance for carbapenem resistance 48 hours in advance. There was discordance in 21 isolates with 12 major errors and 09 minor errors. The sensitivity of direct Xpert® Carba-R test for rapid detection of carbapenem resistance, 48 hours in advance, was 81.42%. The sensitivity of direct CHROMagar test for accurate detection of carbapenem resistance, 24 hours in advance, was 92.06%. The ability to detect carbapenem resistance with very high accuracy, 48 hours in advance, helps in appropriate antibiotic therapy and implementation of effective infection control practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the low-power, high-frequency electrical current treatment administered by the Rexon-Eye device, in a cohort of patients affected by mixed-type dry eye disease (DED) of medium to severe level. In this prospective, non-randomized, interventional clinical study, eighteen mixed type DED patients were treated. Treatment was a specific type of electrotherapy, Quantum Molecular Resonance (QMR®), administered by means of the Rexon-Eye® device (Resono Ophthalmic, Sandrigo, Italy) with a protocol of one 20-min session per week, for 4 weeks. Patients were examined at baseline and one month after the last treatment, utilizing the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and clinical signs: non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT), Oxford staining, meibum quality, meibography, meibomian gland expressibility, tear meniscus height (TMH), Schirmer's test, ocular inflammation expressed by MMP-9 concentration. Subjective benefit in OSDI was reported (p = 0.013). Improvement was also observed in NIBUT (p < 0.001), Oxford staining (p = 0.002), expressible meibomian glands number (p = 0.001) and meibum quality (p < 0.001). A remarkable benefit was present in inflammation, as evidenced by the reduction of MMP-9 (p = 0.003). Changes, although not statistically significant, were also present in TMH (p = 0.076) and Schirmer's test (p = 0.675), whereas no change was observed in meibography score. No adverse event was reported. In this mixed-type DED patients' cohort, Rexon-Eye proved to be effective and safe in improving subjective and objective ocular parameters, as well as capable to normalize inflammatory markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An unusual case of swollen head syndrome in a 55-wk-old broiler breeder flock was identified in north Georgia in the summer of 2019. The presenting complaint was elevated mortality and visibly swollen heads. Necropsy of affected birds on the farm primarily revealed signs of bacterial septicemia, with few large scab lesions near the vent area. Bacterial culture analysis identified multiple organisms, but the primary organism of interest was identified as Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, cultured from affected liver, lung, sinuses, and one swollen wattle of birds in the affected house. Histopathologic analysis identified gram-positive rod-shaped bacteria in the spleen and liver (consistent with bacterial septicemia) confirmed with special staining (Brown & Hopps Gram stain). These organisms were noted to be consistent with E. rhusiopathiae; E. rhusiopathiae infection in broiler breeder chickens is a rare occurrence and is primarily associated with turkeys and/or swine production systems. Reporte de caso- Infección por Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae asociada con el síndrome de cabeza hinchada en un pollo de engorde. En el verano del 2019, se identificó un caso inusual de síndrome de cabeza hinchada en una parvada de reproductoras de pollos de engorde de 55 semanas de edad en el norte de Georgia. Las observaciones iniciales incluyeron mortalidad elevada y cabezas visiblemente inflamadas. La necropsia de las aves afectadas en la granja reveló principalmente signos de septicemia bacteriana, con pocas lesiones costrosas grandes cerca del área de extractores de la ventilación. El análisis de cultivos bacterianos identificó múltiples organismos, pero el principal organismo de interés fue identificado como Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, cultivado a partir de hígado, pulmón, senos paranasales y de una barbilla inflamada de aves en la caseta afectada. El análisis histopatológico identificó bacterias grampositivas en forma de bastón en el bazo y el hígado (compatibles con septicemia bacteriana) confirmadas con tinción especial (tinción de Gram de Brown y Hopps). Se observó que estos organismos eran compatibles con E. rhusiopathiae; La infección por E. rhusiopathiae en pollos de engorde se presenta de forma esporádica y se asocia principalmente con sistemas de producción de pavos y/o cerdos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ambiente e Água is the property of Revista Ambiente e Agua and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The presence of excessive antibiotic residues poses a significant threat to human health and the environment. This study was designed to identify an effective oxytetracycline (OTC)-degrading strain through the screening of the intestine of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). A strain designated "B2" was selected using a series of traditional microbial screening methods. It could be identified as Enterococcus faecalis by Gram staining and 16S rDNA sequencing, with a similarity of 99.93%. Its ability to degrade OTC was then assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The degradation of the strain was characterized using a one-way test to assess the effects of the substrate concentration, inoculum amount, and initial pH on the degrading bacteria. The results indicate that strain B2 exhibited optimal OTC-degrading performance at a substrate concentration of 50 mg/L, with an inoculum amount of 6% and a pH value of 5.0. Specifically, strain B2 achieved degradation rates of 71.11%, 56.14%, and 45.03%. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of strain B2 in degrading OTC, indicating its potential for use in environmental remediation efforts. [Display omitted] • Enterococcus faecalis screened from BSFL gut achieved efficient degradation of OTC. • Strains from the intestinal tract of black soldier fly were tolerant to OTC. • Bacterial resistance didn't mean bacteria could degrade drugs. • Gut microorganisms played an important role in the degradation of OTC by BSFL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machine learning (ML) prepares and trains a model through supervised or unsupervised learning methods. Sputum, a respiratory tract secretion, is a common laboratory specimen that aids in diagnosing respiratory diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Gram stain is an easy, cost-effective stain, which may be applied to sputum smears to screen out an unsatisfactory sample. ML model may help in screening sputum smears. This collaborative project was carried out from June 2020-July 2021. In this study, a color-based segmentation ML algorithm using K-Means clustering was developed. A library of stained sputum smears was built. The Bartletts criteria (based on neutrophil and squamous cell count) for screening and selecting satisfactory sputum smears were used. A smartphone camera was used to take several photographs of satisfactory, as well as unsatisfactory, smears. The image segmentation algorithm was applied to medical image analysis, color-segmentation of sputum images was done. The hue saturation value (HSV) color ranges were defined on a prototype image. Then, all connected pixels were identified as a single object, and morphological operations were applied. Usage of AI-driven model on the slide-image revealed the slide adequacy as the cell count was acceptable based on Bartlett's criteria. Both the manual cell counts (Range: 126–203 neutrophils, 14–47 squamous cells) and the model counts (Range: 117–242 neutrophils, 14–37 squamous cells) are within acceptable limits. The use of a model to screen a large number of sputum slides may be a boon in resource-limited settings where trained microscopists may not be easily available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decision making in surgical oncology of the breast has increased its complexity over the last twenty years. This Delphi survey investigates the opinion of an expert panel about the decision making process in surgical procedures on the breast for oncological purposes. Twenty-seven experts were invited to partake into a Delphi Survey. At the first round they have been asked to provide a list of features involved in the decision making process (patient's characteristics; disease characteristics; surgical techniques, outcomes) and comment on it. Using text-mining techniques we extracted a list of mono-bi-trigrams potentially representative of decision drivers. A technique of "natural language processing" called Word2vec was used to validate changes to texts using synonyms and plesionyms. Word2Vec was also used to test the semantic relevance of n-grams within a corpus of knowledge made up of books edited by panel members. The final list of variables extracted was submitted to the judgement of the panel for final validation at the second round of the Delphi using closed ended questions. 52 features out of 59 have been approved by the panel. The overall consensus was 87.1% Text mining and natural language processing allowed the extraction of a number of decision drivers and outcomes as part of the decision making process in surgical oncology on the breast. This result was obtained transforming narrative texts into structured data. The high level of consensus among experts provided validation to this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbes that can progress plant productivity and health are recognized as PGPR. Rhizobacteria perform a main role in the phytoremediation process by increasing phytoremediation efficacy, thus the need to identify the superior rhizobacteria has been gaining serious attention. In the present study, Pennisetum purpureum were exposed to a series of As-polluted sand including control (0, 5, 20, 40, 60, and 80 mg kg−1) in plastic crates in a greenhouse environment. Four weeks after exposure, the plants could survive with toxicity of As pollution up to 40 mg kg−1. A total of 22 groups of bacterial isolates were confirmed based on the morphological characteristics, biochemical characteristics, and Gram staining. Preliminary and secondary As screening tests were also conducted. Identification was directed utilizing a molecular identification system. After As screening tests, 17 rhizobacterial isolates presented possible tolerance to As. Based on the molecular identification, 9 bacterial isolates were confirmed which were two [28N A UPM (Bacillus subtilis) and 28N U UPM (Bacillus australimaris)] gram-positive and seven [28N H UPM (Burkholderia seminalis), 28N G UPM (Enterobacter cloacae), 28N D UPM (Pseudomonas stutzeri), 28N I UPM (Sphingobacterium thalpophilum), 28N M UPM (Proteus mirabilis), 28N K UPM (Neisseria perflava) and 28N S UPM (Pseudomonas boreopolis)] gram-negative bacteria. All the nine identified rhizobacteria showed excellent results in terms of PGP characters. Among them, 28N U UPM (Bacillus australimaris) performed the highest PGP traits. The findings revealed that these highly As-resistant rhizobacteria have the potential to produce PGP traits and can help P. purpureum growth and productivity. • PGPR were separated from the rhizosphere zone of Pennisetum purpureum. • 9 rhizobacterial isolates were confirmed by molecular identification which were 2 g-positive and 7 g-negative. • All the 9 identified rhizobacteria showed excellent results in terms of PGP characters. • 28N U UPM (B. australimaris) performed the highest amount of different PGP traits. • The findings revealed that these highly As-resistant rhizobacteria can help P. purpureum growth and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine whether causative pathogens in mastitic milk can be determined by Gram staining after the centrifugation of milk. Gram staining was performed using unconcentrated and concentrated milk cells. Using this method, we found that the background of microscopic image of unconcentrated milk cells was complex and bacteria were difficult to detect. In contrast, the background of the smears in the concentrated milk cells was translucent, and bacterial and somatic cells were clearly visible. The sensitivity and specificity of the Gram staining of concentrated milk cells were 84.4% and 86.0% and 50.0% and 94.5% for the detection of grampositive and gram-negative bacteria, respectively. The presented method provides a simple and inexpensive means of determining mastitis-causing pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alarming increase of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, causing conventional treatments of bacterial infections to become increasingly inefficient, is one of the biggest threats to global health. Here, we have developed probiotic cellulose, an antibiotic-free biomaterial for the treatment of severe skin infections and chronic wounds. This composite biomaterial was in-depth characterized by Gram stain, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal fluorescence microscopy. Results demonstrated that probiotic cellulose consists of dense films of cellulose nanofibers, free of cellulose-producing bacteria, completely invaded by live probiotics (Lactobacillus fermentum or Lactobacillus gasseri). Viability assays, including time evolution of pH and reducing capacity against electrochromic polyoxometalate, confirmed that probiotics within the cellulose matrix are not only alive but also metabolically active, a key point for the use of probiotic cellulose as an antibiotic-free antibacterial biomaterial. Antibacterial assays in pathogen-favorable media, a real-life infection scenario, demonstrated that probiotic cellulose strongly reduces the viability of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) , the most active pathogens in severe skin infections and chronic wounds. Likewise, probiotic cellulose was also found to be effective to inhibit the proliferation of methicillin-resistant SA (MRSA). The combination of the properties of bacterial cellulose as wound dressing biomaterial and the antibacterial activity of probiotics makes probiotic cellulose an alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of topical infections, including severe and hard-to-heal chronic wounds. In addition, probiotic cellulose was obtained by a one-pot synthetic approach under mild conditions, not requiring the long and expensive chemical treatments to purify the genuine bacterial cellulose. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Culture remains the diagnostic standard for Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteraemia but is limited by time to identification, prior antibiotics and bacterial autolysis. Culture-independent methods for detecting S. pneumoniae include PCR and antigen tests. We evaluated an antigen test on blood culture broth for the rapid detection of S. pneumoniae bacteraemia. We collected 212 signal-positive blood cultures, with gram-positive cocci in pairs, chains or with uncertain morphology. The BinaxNOW S. pneumoniae urinary antigen test, Gram stain, culture and lytA PCR were performed on all samples. Diagnostic accuracy of the antigen test and Gram stain with gram-positive cocci in pairs were compared with culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the composite of culture and PCR. Streptococcus pneumoniae was isolated in 26% of samples, 66% cultured other gram-positive organisms and 8% of samples had no growth. Sensitivity and negative predictive values of the antigen test were 100%, specificity and positive predictive values were 87% – 88% and 76% – 81%, but increased to 93% – 96% and 96% – 98% when applied to subsets with gram-positive cocci in pairs, or history compatible with respiratory illness or meningitis. Sensitivity (69% – 75%) and specificity (81%) of Gram stain (gram-positive cocci in pairs) were lower than the antigen test even when applied to the same subsets. Accurate and rapid diagnosis of S. pneumoniae bacteraemia is challenging. Specificity of this antigen test is limited by cross-reactivity with other gram-positive organisms, but could be improved if Gram stain morphology and clinical history are available. The antigen test is a useful adjunct for rapid diagnosis of S. pneumoniae bacteraemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sputum Gram stain is an inexpensive, rapid, and convenient laboratory method that predicts the bacterial pathogens in patients with pneumonia. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of this method in predicting sputum culture results for critically ill pediatric patients. From June 2008 to June 2018, patients with pneumonia with an endotracheal or a tracheostomy tube in place in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Changhua Christian Hospital were enrolled retrospectively. Sputum was collected from each patient via the artificial airway for Gram stain and culture evaluations of bacterial pathogens. Mixed culture results were excluded. A successful prediction was defined as a match of the sputum Gram stain and culture results. A total of 622 records were reviewed, of which 542 were analyzed. Haemophilus influenzae , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and Streptococcus pneumoniae were the three most common pathogens found. The overall prediction success rate of the sputum Gram stain was 59.23%. The sensitivity of the method in predicting gram-negative bacilli (GNB), gram-negative cocci (GNC), and gram-positive cocci (GPC) was 0.45, 0.67, and 0.61, respectively. Its specificity in predicting GNB, GNC, and GPC was 0.87, 0.98, and 0.87, respectively. Its positive likelihood ratio in predicting GNB, GNC, and GPC was 3.46, 33.50, and 4.69, respectively. The highest prediction success rate among all pathogens was for GNC. The sputum Gram stain had high specificity and relatively low sensitivity in predicting the bacterial pathogens in critically ill pediatric patients. Its high specificity in predicting sputum culture results means that clinicians can confidently use sputum Gram stain results to guide their antibiotic choice for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from fermented food, to determine its antibacterial activity, and to identify the LAB in order to select candidate probiotic strains for preventing caries. The probiotic strains were isolated from eight fermented food which are tapai ubi, tapai pulut, rebung, tauchu, kimchi, cincalok, tempeh and tempoyak, taucu. Ten-fold serial dilutions of the fermented food samples were made in sterile peptone water before plating on de Man Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) agar. The pure cultures were then randomly picked and biochemically identified. Then, the antibacterial activity of LAB against Streptococcus mutans was assessed by using the disk diffusion method. A total of 120 LAB were isolated from eight different fermented foods. The morphologies of the isolates were circular, convex, dull opaque white or translucent white. Gram staining identification showed that the isolates were Gram-positive rods. Of the 120 LAB isolates, five strains displayed moderate to strong antibacterial activity against S. mutans with the inhibition zones ranging from 7- 12 mm. The antibacterial activity demonstrated from LAB isolated from fermented foods suggests that the isolates from fermented foods possess antibacterial properties against a pathogen which responsible for causing dental caries. These strains are currently investigated in depth to assess whether they can be fully characterized as probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Avian Diseases is the property of American Association of Avian Pathologists, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Timely initiation of appropriate antimicrobial can improve the outcome in terms of reduced morbidity and mortality in addition to reduced health-care costs. Availability of early preliminary Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test (AST) report will be useful in directing antimicrobial therapy. The aim of the study was to correlate AST by disc diffusion method, directly from positively flagged blood culture bottles, with the AST by automated method. A total of 144 aerobic blood culture bottles flagged positive by the automated blood culture system were processed. The bacteria were pelleted by two-step centrifugation of the broth from the bottle and used to make a smear for Gram stain as well as an inoculum for antimicrobial sensitivity testing by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. Automated identification and AST were also carried out. On direct staining, 94 samples showed gram-negative bacilli, 39 showed gram-positive cocci, and 11 showed yeasts or polymicrobial growth. In the case of gram-negative bacteria, there was 99% categorical agreement between direct sensitivity testing and automated sensitivity testing with 1% disagreement. Among the gram-positive cocci, there was 96% categorical agreement with 4% disagreement between the two methods. High degree of agreement between the two methods is promising and applicable to situations where automated sensitivity testing is not available. Even if the systems are available, this method would prove useful as an adjunct to standard AST reporting. This sensitivity report can be generated earlier than the conventional AST, enabling choice of appropriate antimicrobial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori eradication continues to be a challenge in a group of patients after the failure of several therapeutic regimen attempts. Treatment regimen is generally chosen on the basis of the prevalence of bacterial resistance detected against the tested antibiotics. 60 sixty(60), adult out patients presented to Gastroenterology clinic of General Hospital Gashua undertook multiple gastric biopsy and specimens were carried for gram stain, culture, antimicrobial sensitivity testing, rapid urease test and histology. Antimicrobial susceptibility test were carryout using Epsilometer testing Kit (E-test) method and tested against Omeprazole, metronidazole Ranitidine, and Amoxicillin. About Sixty percent (30%) of the study population was positive for H. pylori infection (mean age of 34 years ± 15), 60% were males while 40% are women which are mostly married. Helicobacter pylori culture showed a sensitivity of 55% (95% CI (29.5- 62.1), specificity of 97% (95%CI (80.5-100%), positive likelihood ratio of 19.93 (95% CI (1.254- 317.04) and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.76 (95% CI (0.406-0.772). Eighteen (18) strains of Helicobacter pylori isolated 14 are sensitive to Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin, metronidazole; amoxicillin three (4) strains were resistant to ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillin and metronidazole when tested. It is imperative to have indebt knowledge on diagnostic method and antibiotic susceptibility patterns in the study area, since the accurate diagnosis of H. pylori is idealistic view for both gastroenterologists and microbiologists, using synergistically invasive and noninvasive methods will be a future challenge in medical research topics. It is clear that recent advances in invasive and noninvasive methods for accurate diagnosis of the H. pylori can drastically change upcoming guidelines attributed with the management of this infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The rhizome rot or tip over is a major and emerging disease of banana, causing substantial economic losses. Common cultivars such as Grand Naine, Rasthali and Nendran are highly susceptible to this disease caused by different Pectobacterium species. Understanding the disease etiology and pathogen variability are essential in management programs. Bacterium Pectobacterium carotovorum was isolated from infected rhizomes from 18 locations of Kerala and Tamil Nadu states of India. Pathogenicity of all isolates were confirmed by in vitro inoculation in rhizome bits and in vivo inoculation in rhizomes of three months old plants and pseudostems of two months old tissue cultured plants of cv. Nendran. Isolates were characterized by cultural, morphological, biochemical, physiological and molecular methods. Cultural characterization was carried out on Nutrient agar (NA), Yeast Extract Glucose Calcium Carbonate (YGC), Logan's medium and Nutrient broth. Morphological characterization was carried out by Gram staining, capsule staining and flagellar staining. Biochemical characterization was done through potato and carrot soft rot test, intrinsic antibiotic resistance, growth of bacteria in three and four per cent NaCl and growth of bacteria in CVP medium. Physiological characterization was carried out by growing the bacterium at different temperatures and pH. Based on these results, 18 isolates were allocated to six groups. 16S rDNA regions of representative isolates of each group have been PCR amplified and the 1.5 kb amplicons were sequenced. Homology and phylogeny analyses had shown that all the groups belong to Pectobacterium carotovorum , and two subspecies carotovorum and brasiliense were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 1-mo-old reticulated giraffe had progressive anorexia and died at the Ordos Zoo. Autopsy revealed necrotic stomatitis with severe bilateral necroulcerative lesions at the base of the tongue and of the cheeks near the commissures of the mouth. There was also severe bilateral confluent bronchopneumonia with a pronounced bronchial pattern and multifocal fibrinous pleuritis. Histologically, there was serofibrinous-suppurative bronchopneumonia with necrosuppurative bronchiolitis and necrotic arteritis. Filamentous bacteria with morphology consistent with Fusobacterium necrophorum were observed at the advancing edge of the necrotic tissue in the tongue and cheeks, as well as in the affected alveolar spaces and bronchioles. Aggregates of slender, gram-negative, rod-like or filamentous bacteria were identified in the lung impression smear. PCR results of 16S rDNA of the tongue and lung lesions had 100% homology to the F. necrophorum subsp. funduliforme B35 sequence (EF447425.1). The gross, histologic, Gram stain, and PCR product sequencing features in our case were consistent with oral and pulmonary necrobacillosis in ruminants, a rare disease of giraffes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this was to analyze the presence of different bacterial strains and to determine resistance to antimicrobials in used bottles (UB) from the members of fitness centers and new non-used bottles (NUB). A total of 60 shakers (30 UB and 30 NUB) were selected and submitted to microbiological analysis. The samples were collected through Swabs containing Stuart's medium and delivered to the laboratory. Gram staining and biochemical tests were performed for the identification of microorganisms and antimicrobial susceptibility. The Cochran Q test presented significant difference (P=0.001) in contamination status (UB vs. NUB). All the NUB tests showed 100% absence of contamination while 90% of the UB showed bacterial contamination. For the 60 samples investigated, we were able to isolate six species of different microorganisms. It is important to note that 16.6% had no bacterial growth. The antibacterial susceptibility test revealed a varied range of resistance profile. In conclusion, six pathogenic microorganisms were isolated from poorly sanitized bottles highlighting that the post-use hygiene must be made appropriately to avoid the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans) isolated from periodontal patients and healthy subjects using culture and PCR methods. Methods: Duplicate paper point needles were taken from 100 samples (50 healthy subjects and 50 patients), who referred to the specialized dental clinic from Oct. 2015 to Mar. 2016. In laboratory after incubation period and observing the star-shaped colony A. actinomycetemcomitans, the confirmation tests, including gram staining and catalase test were carried out. For PCR, samples were analyzed with genus specific primers. These primers set, amplified a 500 bp fragment. Results: Of the 100 samples, A. actinomycetemcomitans was isolated from 31 patients (31%), (24 isolate of patients, and 7 isolate of healthy subjects) by using a selective Aggregatibacter isolation medium. Using PCR, a total of 49 (49%) samples were found to be positive for A. actinomycetemcomitans (35 isolate of patients, and 14 isolate of healthy subjects). Conclusion: PCR was found to be highly sensitive when genus specific primers were used for diagnosis of A. actinomycetemcomitans in comparison with culture method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the era of rapid development of molecular and other diagnostic methods, direct Gram staining (DGS) tends to remain in the background, although it can provide both microbiologists and clinicians numerous benefits. The aim of this review was to emphasize the importance of DGS for the diagnosis of many clinically important infections. A PubMed search was carried out using relevant keywords for articles published primarily since 2010. The DGS can provide early information for a timely diagnosis of infections, can reveal the causative agents of the infections even under suboptimal conditions of specimen collection, transport or identification methods, can detect the presence of rare/unusual pathogens, moreover, the method shows the specimen quality, by distinguishing between contamination and true infection, it can direct or change initial antibiotic treatment before the availability of culture results, can indicate the need of other methods for pathogen identification and, in some cases, can show the need for emergency attention such as urgent antibiotic therapy and surgical measures. Briefly, the DGS remains an easy, rapid, inexpensive and important method, which use should be encouraged in conditions of a standardized and controlled performance to avoid technical or interpretation errors. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

To determine the prevalence and types of pathogens found in children with orbital cellulitis and to evaluate the utility of nonoperative cultures. This was a retrospective cohort study of children with imaging-confirmed orbital cellulitis over a period of 8 years. Outcomes included prevalence and types of organisms, polymicrobial infection, mixed aerobic-anaerobic infection, effect of age, and culture utility. Of 220 children with orbital cellulitis, 112 (51%) had cultures taken; 69 (31%) had surgical intervention. Culture sources for the 112 children with cultures included blood (57 patients [51%]), sinus (53 [47%]), orbit (42 [38%]), brain (6 [5%]), and skin/conjunctiva/lacrimal sac (6 [5%]). Streptococcus anginosus group strains grew in cultures from 19 children (17%); methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), in 15 (13%); Streptococcus pyogenes , in 12 (11%); methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), in 6 (5%); anaerobic/facultative gram negative rods, in 8 (7%); anaerobic Gram-positive cocci, other Viridans group streptococci , and Streptococci pneumoniae , in 3 (3%) each; and normal respiratory/skin flora, in 23 (21%). Polymicrobial infection (P = 0.08) and anaerobic organisms (P = 0.58) did not differ by age (range, 0.1-16.8 years). In all 220 (100%) children, nonoperative cultures were either not obtained (108 [49%]), not helpful in avoiding surgery (69 [31%]), showed no growth (39 [18%]), or grew an organism that did not change management from empiric therapy (4 [2%]). While many organisms may be cultured from children with orbital cellulitis, Streptococcus and MSSA were the most common in our study cohort. MRSA is uncommon, so initial empiric coverage is not necessary. Rates of polymicrobial and anaerobic infection were similar across ages. Our results indicate that nonoperative cultures are not indicated in the initial medical management of orbital cellulitis; in our cohort, they neither resulted in treatment changes nor helped avoid surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the bacteriological profile and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of burn wound isolates. Methods: Swabs were taken from burn wound of patients admitted to Ward D2C and Burns Intensive Care Unit (BICU) from December 2014 to November 2015. Samples were processed at the Microbiology Laboratory for identification and sensitivity. Bacteria isolated were identified using their morphological characteristics, Gram staining reaction and biochemical tests. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done using Kirby- Bauer disc diffusion method. Questionnaires were also administered to study participants to obtain information on demography, kind of first aid received, antibiotics received prior to culture and sensitivity. Results: A total of 86 patients comprising 45 patients from Ward D2C and 41 from BICU participated in the study. Males were 51(59.3%) and females 35 (40.7%). Age of participants ranged from 0-56+ years. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the commonest pathogen isolated 26(30.2%), followed by Pseudomonas spp. 21(24.4%), Escherichia coli 17(19.8%), Klebsiella spp. 12(14.0%). Coagulase negative Staphylococcus accounted for 2(2.3%). Overall prevalence of infection in the study was 90.7%. Conclusions: Burn wound infection continues to be a major challenge in burn centers. Regular surveillance of commonly identified pathogens in the ward and their antimicrobial susceptibility will guide proper empiric selection of antibiotics for management of burn wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulase producing bacteria were isolated from both soil and ward poultry, using CMC (carboxymethylcellulose) agar medium and screened by iodine method. Cellulase activity of the isolated bacteria was determined by DNS (dinitrosalicylic) acid method. The highly cellulolytic isolates (BTN7A, BTN7B, BMS4 and SA5) were identified on the basis of Gram staining, morphological cultural characteristics, and biochemical tests. They were also identified with 16S rDNA analysis. The phylogenetic analysis of their 16S rDNA sequence data showed that BTN7B has 99% similarity with Anoxybacillus flavithermus , BMS4 has 99% similarity with Bacillus megaterium , SA5 has 99% homology with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and BTN7A was 99% similar with Bacillus subtilis . Cellulase production by these strains was optimized by controlling different environmental and nutritional factors such as pH, temperature, incubation period, different volumes of media, aeration rate and carbon source. The cellulase specific activity was calculated in each case. In conclusion four highly cellulolytic bacterial strains were isolated and identified and the optimum conditions for each one for cellulase production were determined. These strains could be used for converting plant waste to more useful compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common ocular manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 in adults and children is acute conjunctivitis. We report the case of a 4-day-old infant who presented with acute-onset mucopurulent discharge of the left eye as well as subconjunctival hemorrhage and palpebral injection, without corneal findings. A diagnosis of ophthalmia neonatorum was established, for which ocular cultures and Gram staining were performed. No bacterial growth was noted, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for Chlamydia trachomatis , Neisseria gonorrhea , and herpes simplex were negative. Nasopharyngeal and conjunctival SARS-CoV-2 PCR were positive. Given the identification of SARS-CoV-2 illness, lack of other underlying bacterial or viral etiology on testing, and the well-documented ability for SARS-CoV-2 to cause conjunctivitis, the clinical picture was supportive of ophthalmia neonatorum secondary to SARS-CoV-2. The infant was treated with ceftriaxone and azithromycin prior to culture results. During admission, no systemic findings of Covid-19 illness were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess the role of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in serum samples, in the diagnosis of osteoarticular tuberculosis (OTB) in a setting where only clinical and imaging diagnoses determine the treatment. Methods A total of 44 consecutive serum specimens were collected from clinically suspected OTB patients, based on clinical and radiological [X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging/computed tomography] features. They were screened by in-house nested PCR. In addition, a few specimens were examined by Gram stain, acid-fast bacilli stain, histopathology and routine bacterial culture. A total of 39 specimens were collected from patients suffering from other bone diseases of nontuberculous origin and included as negative controls. Results Of the 44 clinically suspected OTB patients, in-house nested PCR was positive in 40 (91%) cases; PCR was negative in 38 (97%) negative controls. Sensitivity and specificity of our in-house nested PCR was 90.9% and 97.4%, respectively. The PCR report was available within 48 h. It was possible to standardize serum PCR technique and in positive cases, a good correlation was observed in terms of an adequate treatment response. Conclusions Nested PCR in serum samples is a rapid, highly sensitive and specific modality for OTB detection. PCR should be performed in addition to clinical evaluation, imaging studies, acid-fast bacilli staining, culture and histopathology diagnosis, if possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the findings of a research conducted on examining the fermented mare milk to explore potential probiotics in the traditional foods of Indonesia. It discusses the methodology used in conducting the research including gram staining, catalase activity and cell morphology. The research reveals that all the isolates identified as lactobacilli as they appeared as Gram-positive rods without catalase activity.

Abstract: Bacterial meningitis presents with fever and headache. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contains neutrophils. Organisms may be seen on Gram stain. Antibiotics should be commenced without delay. Corticosteroids reduce hearing loss and neurological sequelae, and in pneumococcal meningitis reduce mortality. In aseptic meningitis there is usually a CSF lymphocytosis with no organisms seen on Gram stain. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on CSF may identify a causative virus. Viral meningitis is usually self-limiting. Antiviral treatment is not usually indicated. Encephalitis presents with altered mentation and fever and may be caused by viruses such as herpesviruses or arboviruses. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the most common cause of viral encephalitis, and has a predilection for the temporal lobes. A course of 14–21 days of intravenous acyclovir reduces mortality in HSV encephalitis. Brain abscesses may present with headache, vomiting, altered conscious state, focal neurology and seizures. Most are polymicrobial especially with streptococci and anaerobes. CT guided surgical aspiration is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Patients receive up to 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics. Subdural empyema usually arises from adjacent infection. Presentation is usually fever and headache with meningism and focal neurological signs. Management is surgical drainage and antimicrobial therapy. Spinal epidural abscess presents with fever and severe focal back pain. Patients should have an MRI of scan of the spine. Blood cultures should be taken and empiric antibiotics commenced. The presence of focal neurological signs is an indication for urgent decompressive spinal surgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This is the first of a two-part series of microbial fact sheets on some of the common hospital pathogens which cause healthcare-associated infections. The objectives are to revive the reader's interest in the microbiological aspects of infection prevention and control by explaining the clever pathogenic and survival strategies used by microorganisms, as well as the rationale for the practical measures which should be implemented at unit level to prevent and/or contain their spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article discusses a study which compared the Luna stain to the Gram, Fite's acid fast, Giemsa and H&E stains on 8 stains including Loma salmonae, Glugea anomala, and Pseudoloma neurophilia. It was discovered that the Luna stain, used to highlight eosinophils, red blood cells, and chitin in arthropods and other invertebrates, also stains spores of Pseudoloma neurophilia. The study found that the Luna stain performed better for detection of 6 of the 8 microsporidia and Gram stain was superior for the 2 microsporidia from invertebrates.

Summary: Introduction: Sputum Gram stain and culture have been said to be unreliable indicators of the microbiological diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia. The etiological diagnosis of pneumonia is surrounded by great degree of uncertainty. This uncertainty should be and can be calculated and incorporated in the diagnosis and treatment. Study objectives: To determine the diagnostic accuracy and diagnostic value of sputum Gram stain in etiological diagnosis and initial selection of antimicrobial therapy of bacterial community acquired pneumonia (CAP). Design-Method: Prospective study of 1390 patients with CAP admitted January 2002–June 2008, to our institutions. Of the 1390 patients, 178 (12.8%) fulfilled the criteria for inclusion into this study (good-quality sputa and presence of the same microorganism in blood and sputum cultures which was used as gold standard for assessing the diagnostic accuracy and diagnostic value of sputum Gram stain). Results: The sensitivity of sputum Gram stain was 0.82 for Pneumococcal pneumonia, 0.76 for Staphylococcal pneumonia, 0.79 for Haemophilus influenzae pneumonia and 0.78 for Gram-negative bacilli pneumonia. The specificity of sputum Gram stain was 0.93 for Pneumococcal pneumonia, 0.96 for Staphylococcal pneumonia, 0.96 for H. influenzae pneumonia and 0.95 for Gram-negative bacilli pneumonia. The positive likelihood ratio (LR+) was 11.58 for Pneumococcal pneumonia, 19.38 for Staphylococcal pneumonia, 16.84 for H. influenzae pneumonia, 14.26 for Gram-negative bacilli pneumonia. The negative likelihood ratio (LR–) was 0.20 for Pneumococcal pneumonia, 0.25 for Staphylococcal pneumonia, 0.22 for H. influenzae pneumonia, and 0.23 for Gram-negative bacilli pneumonia. Conclusions: Sputum Gram stain is a dependable diagnostic test for the early etiological diagnosis of bacterial CAP that helps in choosing orthological and appropriate initial antimicrobial therapy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Non spore forming anaerobic bacteria are an important component of normal flora in humans and are responsible for a variety of infections in children. They are often overlooked due to difficulties in their microbiological isolation. Most of the anaerobic infections are endogenous and polymicrobial. Certain predisposing factors and peculiar characteristics of anaerobic infections offer diagnostic clues to clinicians. Polymicrobial and pleomorphic appearance of gram stain combined with absence of growth on routine aerobic cultures supports the causative role of anaerobes in a particular infection. The presence of an anaerobic infection imposes on the clinician the duty of identifying an underlying situation which has predisposed the patient to the anaerobic infection. Treatment by appropriate antibiotics and surgical procedures is necessary. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To determine the safety and efficacy of UniPron as a reversible contraceptive. Methods: Vaginal swabs were obtained before and after UniPron administration, cultured onto appropriate culture media and bacteria identification was done based on type of media used, Gram stain reactions, colony morphology and biochemical tests. Vaginal biopsy tissues were processed using paraffin wax method, stained with hematoxylin and eosin and examined under light microscopy to determine the effect of the product on vaginal tissues. The effect of UniPron on sperm was examined by mixing the product with electroejaculated spermatozoa in vitro at different concentrations. For efficacy studies, male baboons of proven fertility were mated with UniPron treated or untreated females of proven fertility during the fertile stages. Results: All the five females (100%) that were treated with UniPron did not conceive and they regained total fertility when the treatment was stopped while all the controls conceived. At a concentration of 40%, UniPron completely immobilized spermatozoa in an in-vitro system. UniPron mechanism of action was by lowering the vaginal pH and on application in baboon, the pH was lowered for at least 3 h after which it went back to normal. Conclusion: As we plan for a study to test UniPron as a microbicide to prevent STIs including HIV, our current study has established that this novel product is effective in contraception and harmless to vaginal tissues and vaginal microbial flora in a baboon model (Papio anubis). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Purpose: Gram stains of endotracheal aspirates (EA) and bronchoalveolar lavages (BAL) may guide empiric antibiotic therapy in critically ill patients with suspected ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Previous studies differ regarding the ability of the Gram stain to predict final culture results. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between EA or BAL Gram stains and final culture results in intensive care unit patients with a suspected VAP. Material and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from the Canadian multicenter VAP study to correlate EA or BAL Gram stain and final culture results. We categorized Gram stains as Gram positive (GP) and Gram negative (GN) if any GP or GN organisms respectively were seen on staining. Cultures were considered “positive” if they yielded pathogenic organisms on final results. Results: Seven hundred forty patients were enrolled in the study; 35 did not have a Gram stain done leaving 350 BALs and 355 EAs from 705 patients. Pooling BAL and EA results, we found the overall agreement between Gram stain class and pathogenic bacteria culture results to be poor (κ = 0.36; 95% CI, 0.31-0.40). Among specimens with Gram stains showing no organisms, 99 (30%) of 331 grew pathogenic organisms. Among specimens with Gram stains showing no GN organisms, 113 (25%) of 452 grew pathogenic GN organisms. Among specimens with Gram stains showing no GP organisms, 45 (11%) of 428 grew pathogenic GP organisms. Conclusions: Gram stains performed for clinically suspected VAP poorly predict the final culture result and thus have a limited role in guiding initial empiric antibiotic therapy in such patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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Objective: We sought to identify the use of vaginal amniotic fluid (vAF) glucose measurements in predicting infection of the amniotic fluid retrieved by transabdominal amniocentesis (aAF) in women with preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM). Study design: Fluid was retrieved by aAF was retreived from 35 consecutive women with PPROM on whom an amniocentesis was clinically indicated to rule out intra-amniotic infection/ inflammation and successfully completed, aAF was cultured for aerobic, anaerobic bacteria, Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma species. Clinical laboratory analysis for aAF included glucose concentration, Gram stain, lactate dehydrogenase, and white and red blood cell count, vAF was analyzed only for glucose concentration. Glucose concentration for the paired abdominal-vaginal AF samples (aAF-vAF) was determined by using well-established clinical and research laboratory methods. At the end of enrollment we stratified our patients into 2 groups: (1) positive microbial cultures (+)AFC (n = 17, gestational age [GA]: 27.3 ± 0.7 weeks) or (2) negative microbial cultures (-)AFC (n = 18, GA: 31.3 ± 0.5 weeks). Cohen kappa measure of concordance and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were used to test the ability of the vaginal ‘pool’ glucose measurements to discriminate between women with positive or negative AF cultures. Results: Women with (+)AFC ruptured and delivered at an earlier GA compared with the (-)AFC group (p < .001). The latency period was similar (P = .35). There was a significant linear correlation between aAF and vAF glucose concentrations (r = 0.783, P < .001). Women with intra-amniotic infection (IAI) had significantly lower aAF [mean ± SEM (+)AFC: 11.4 ± 3.2 vs (-)AFC 23.0 ± 2.8 mg/dL, P = .01] and vAF glucose levels [(+)AFC: 10.1 ± 2.8 vs (-)AFC: 19.8 ± 2.9 mg/dL, P = .02] compared with the noninfected group. Cohen kappa measure of concordance indicated ‘substantial’ agreement between aAF and vAF glucose measurements (kappa = 0.719, 95% CI = 0.491–0.947). The sensitivity of the vAF glucose level to detect IAI ranged from 82% to 47%, whereas specificity ranged from 100% to 56% depending on the threshold we used. A vaginal ‘pool’ (vAF) glucose measurement less than 5 mg/dL had 47.1% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, 66.7% negative predictive value, and 74.2% accuracy in identifying women with (+)AFC. Conclusion: Vaginal glucose determination is a readily available, inexpensive, rapid AF marker that can be measured practically in any clinical laboratory, vAF glucose measurements less than 5 mg/dL have predictive value, but low sensitivity for detection of IAI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study was undertaken to identify early pregnancy vaginal markers predictive of subsequent preterm birth.Study Design: In a multicenter Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Trial, 21,554 women were screened with a vaginal pH and of these, two populations were studied. These included 12,041 who had a pregnancy outcome in the database and 6838 women who had a vaginal pH of 4.5 or greater and a Gram stain score and a pregnancy outcome in the database. ColorpHast Indicator Strips were used to determine the vaginal pH and the Nugent criteria were used to determine a vaginal Gram stain score of 0 to 10.Results: Delivery at <37, <35, or <32 weeks' gestation was similar for women with a vaginal pH of less than 4.4 or 4.7 (P not significant) but was increased in women with a pH of 5.0 (P =.04,.02,.03, respectively) or with a pH of 5.0 or greater (at each gestational age P <.0001). The effect of pH of 5.0 or greater was similar for women who had a spontaneous preterm birth at each gestational age (P <.0001) or birth weight of less than 2500 g or less than 1500 g (P <.0005). Women with a vaginal pH of 4.5 or greater and a Gram stain score of 9 to 10 (compared with 0-8) had increased preterm births at <37, <35, and <32 weeks' gestation (P <.01), and birth weights less than 2500 g (P <.0001) or less than 1500 g (P <.01). Women whose vaginal pH was 5.0 or greater had a higher prevalence of vaginal fetal fibronectin > or =50 ng/mL (P <.0001), but the proportion of women with a vaginal fetal fibronectin > or =50 mg/mL did not differ by Gram stain score.Conclusion: Women with a vaginal pH of 5.0 or greater or a vaginal pH of 4.5 or greater and a Gram stain score of 9 to 10 had significantly increased preterm births at <37, <35, and 32 weeks' gestation and/or a birth weight less than 2500 g or less than 1500 g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Iberoamericana de Micologia is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A rhamnose-degrading bacterium, strain BoRhaAT, was isolated from profundal sediment of Lake Constance in agar dilution series with l -rhamnose as substrate and with a background lawn of Methanospirillum hungatei. The isolated strain was a motile rod that stained Gram positive. Growth was observed within a pH range of 4.0–7.5 and a temperature range of 15–30°C. Fermentation products of rhamnose or glucose were acetate, propionate, ethanol, butyrate, and 1-propanol. The G+C content was 40.6% G+C. The dominant fatty acids are C 16:1 ω9c, i-C 13:0 3OH, C 16:0 and C 17:1 ω8c with 8–21% relative abundance. Polar lipids were glycolipids, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphoaminolipid and other lipids, of which phosphatidylethanolamine was most abundant. The sequence of the 16S rRNA gene of the new isolate matches the sequence of its closest relative Anaerosporomusa subterranea to 92.4%. A comparison of the genome with this strain showed 60.2% genome-wide average amino acid identity (AAI), comparisons with other type strains showed a maximum of 62.7% AAI. Thus, the definition of a new genus is justified for which we propose the name Pelorhabdus. For strain BoRhaAT, we propose the name Pelorhabdus rhamnosifermentans gen. nov., sp. nov., with strain BoRhaAT (DSM 111565T = JCM 39158T) as the type strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which compared the diagnostic utility of the Gram stain, the amniotic fluid glucose level and amniotic fluid to serum glucose ratio, in an attempt to evaluate the diagnostic tests of intra-amniotic infection. Information on the determination of the amniotic fluid serum glucose level; Use of transabdominal amniocentesis under ultrasonographic guidance.