Search

Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of a five-bundle intervention and to decrease the number of cases in which only one set of blood cultures is collected prior to starting antimicrobials. Methods: The study group consisted of the two hospital wards that have the highest collection rate (120 blood cultures/1000 patient days and 121.4 blood cultures/1000 patient days, respectively), and the control group consisted of the other three adult wards. The collection protocol was changed, and a bundle of five measures was introduced: one-on-one discussions with the nurses, 2% chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol for disinfection, ensuring the use of sterile gloves, sterile wipes, a checklist for the materials needed, and a copy of the collection protocol. The impact of these changes was followed over a 5-month period. Results: Prior to the intervention, the contamination rate was higher in the control group (6.5%) versus the study group (4%), p = 0.00578. The before–after analysis revealed a significantly reduced contamination rate in the control group (4.6% vs. 6.5% p = 0.0099), but it was above the one obtained in the study group (3.1% vs. 4%, p = 0.1635). The number of infectious episodes in which one blood culture set was collected decreased significantly in the study group (77/311 vs. 139/456, p = 0.041). Conclusions: The intervention decreased the contamination rate and the number of infectious episodes in which one blood culture set is collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Recovering pathogenic bacteria and yeast from pediatric blood cultures and reliably distinguishing between pathogens and contaminants are likely to be improved by increasing the volume of blood submitted to microbiology laboratories for culturing beyond the low volumes that have historically have been used. The primary aim of this study was to assess whether the pathogen recovery rate would increase after implementation of a weight-based algorithm for determining the intended volume of blood submitted for culturing. Secondary aims were to: 1) evaluate the effects of the algorithm implementation on the blood culture contamination rate; 2) determine whether pathogens might be found more often than contaminants in several as opposed to single bottles when more than one bottle is submitted; and 3) describe the microbiological findings for pathogens and contaminants in blood cultures by applying a clinical validation of true blood culture positivity. Methods A pre-post comparison of positivity and contamination rates after increasing the theoretical blood volume and number of blood culture bottles was performed, on the basis of a clinical validation of blood culture findings as pathogens vs contaminants. Results We examined 5327 blood cultures, including 186 with growth (123 true positives and 63 contaminated). The rate of true positive blood cultures significantly increased from 1.6% (42/2553) pre to 2.9% (81/2774, p = .002) post intervention. The rate of contaminated blood cultures did not change significantly during the study period (1.4% [35/2553] pre vs 1.0% [28/2774], p = .222) post intervention), but the proportion of contaminated cultures among all positive cultures decreased from 45% (35/77) pre to 26% (28/109, p = .005) post intervention. A microorganism that grew in a single bottle was considered a contaminant in 35% (8/23) of cases, whereas a microorganism that grew in at least two bottles was considered a contaminant in 2% (1/49, p

Background: Recovering pathogenic bacteria and yeast from pediatric blood cultures and reliably distinguishing between pathogens and contaminants are likely to be improved by increasing the volume of blood submitted to microbiology laboratories for culturing beyond the low volumes that have historically have been used. The primary aim of this study was to assess whether the pathogen recovery rate would increase after implementation of a weight-based algorithm for determining the intended volume of blood submitted for culturing. Secondary aims were to: 1) evaluate the effects of the algorithm implementation on the blood culture contamination rate; 2) determine whether pathogens might be found more often than contaminants in several as opposed to single bottles when more than one bottle is submitted; and 3) describe the microbiological findings for pathogens and contaminants in blood cultures by applying a clinical validation of true blood culture positivity. Methods: A pre-post comparison of positivity and contamination rates after increasing the theoretical blood volume and number of blood culture bottles was performed, on the basis of a clinical validation of blood culture findings as pathogens vs contaminants. Results: We examined 5327 blood cultures, including 186 with growth (123 true positives and 63 contaminated). The rate of true positive blood cultures significantly increased from 1.6% (42/2553) pre to 2.9% (81/2774, p =.002) post intervention. The rate of contaminated blood cultures did not change significantly during the study period (1.4% [35/2553] pre vs 1.0% [28/2774], p =.222) post intervention), but the proportion of contaminated cultures among all positive cultures decreased from 45% (35/77) pre to 26% (28/109, p =.005) post intervention. A microorganism that grew in a single bottle was considered a contaminant in 35% (8/23) of cases, whereas a microorganism that grew in at least two bottles was considered a contaminant in 2% (1/49, p <.001) of cases. According to common classification criteria relying primarily on the identity of the microorganism, 14% (17/123) of the recovered pathogens would otherwise have been classified as contaminants. Conclusion: Implementation of a weight-based algorithm to determine the volume and number of blood cultures in pediatric patients is associated with an increase in the pathogen recovery rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination rates reported in the literature for patient-ready flexible endoscopes vary from 0.4% to 49%. Unfortunately, the comparison and interpretation of these results is almost impossible since several factors including sampling and culturing methods, target levels for contamination, or definition of indicator micro-organisms vary widely from one study to the other. To compare the efficacy of six duodenoscope sampling and culturing methods by means of extraction efficacy comparison, while at the same time identifying key parameters that provide optimal microbial recovery. The duodenoscope sample extraction efficacy of each method was assessed using the repetitive recovery method described in ISO 11737–1: 2018. Mean overall bioburden extraction efficacy varied from 1% for the Australian method to 39% for the French one. The lowest endoscope sample extraction efficacy was associated with the absence of any neutralizer, friction, or tensioactive agent, and when only a small portion of the sampling solution collected was inoculated on to culture media. The efficacy of the sampling and culturing methods also varied according to the nature of micro-organisms present in the endoscope, and the time between sampling and culturing. This study supports the need for a harmonized and standardized sampling and culturing method for flexible endoscopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of a five-bundle intervention and to decrease the number of cases in which only one set of blood cultures is collected prior to starting antimicrobials. Methods: The study group consisted of the two hospital wards that have the highest collection rate (120 blood cultures/1000 patient days and 121.4 blood cultures/1000 patient days, respectively), and the control group consisted of the other three adult wards. The collection protocol was changed, and a bundle of five measures was introduced: one-on-one discussions with the nurses, 2% chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol for disinfection, ensuring the use of sterile gloves, sterile wipes, a checklist for the materials needed, and a copy of the collection protocol. The impact of these changes was followed over a 5-month period. Results: Prior to the intervention, the contamination rate was higher in the control group (6.5%) versus the study group (4%), p = 0.00578. The before–after analysis revealed a significantly reduced contamination rate in the control group (4.6% vs. 6.5% p = 0.0099), but it was above the one obtained in the study group (3.1% vs. 4%, p = 0.1635). The number of infectious episodes in which one blood culture set was collected decreased significantly in the study group (77/311 vs. 139/456, p = 0.041). Conclusions: The intervention decreased the contamination rate and the number of infectious episodes in which one blood culture set is collected.

Bu çalışma Düzce ilinde fındık yetiştiriciliğinin en fazla yapıldığı üç ilçede (Akçakoca, Merkez ve Cumayeri) fındık bahçelerinde bulunan zararlı fındık kozalak akar türlerini ve bulaşma oranını tespit etmek amacıyla toplam 40 bahçede 2021-2022 yılları arasında yürütülmüştür. Fındık bahçelerinin büyüklüğü dikkate alınarak örneklemelerde her bir bahçede rastgele belirlenen en az 10’ar ocakta gözle kontrol yöntemi ile ağacın yaprak, sürgün, tomurcuk, çiçek ve meyve gibi organları incelenmiş ve toplanan örnekler polietilen torbalar ile laboratuvara getirilmiş ve kaydedilmiştir. Elde edilen bireylerin preparatları hazırlanarak tür teşhisi yapılmıştır. Ayrıca, örneklemelerde her bir bahçede en az 10’ar ocakta ve her ocaktan seçilen birer daldaki kozalakların sayımı yapılmıştır. Örnekleme yapılan bahçelerde zararlının bir tek bireyi veya zararı tespit edildiğinde o bahçe bulaşık olarak kaydedilmiş ve bulaşma oranı belirlenmiştir. Çalışmada Phytoptus avellanae Nal. (Trombidiformes: Phytoptidae) ve Cecidophyopsis vermiformis (Nal.) (Trombidiformes: Eriophyidae) olmak üzere iki tür tespit edilmiştir. Phytoptus avellanae türü iki kriptik türden oluşan bir kompleksi temsil etmektedir. Her üç ilçedeki fındık bahçelerinde zararlı ile bulaşma oranının %100 olduğu ve kozalak yoğunluğunun ekonomik zarar eşiğinin üzerinde olduğu saptanmıştır. Bahçelerde dal başına kozalak ortalaması en yüksek Cumayeri ilçesinde (16,4 kozalak sayısı/dal) tespit edilmiş, bunu sırası ile Akçakoca ilçesi (6,5-9,25 kozalak sayısı/dal) ve Merkez ilçe (7,16-8,85 kozalak sayısı/dal) takip etmiştir. Fındık kozalak akar popülasyonunun mücadeleyi gerektirecek düzeyde olduğu ve son yıllarda fındıkta verimini etkileyen önemli faktörler arasında yer aldığı görülmüştür.

Could the microbial contamination rate of oocytes and embryos in conventional IVF cycles be further reduced by modifying the handling procedures of cumulus–oocyte complexes (COC)? Two modifications were applied to COC handling procedures. First, a mark was made on the outer wall of the 10-cm Petri dish to indicate the site from which the follicular fluid was poured out during the oocyte retrieval process (modified handling 1) since May 2018. Second, a modified way of pipetting during denuding (modified handling 2) has been adopted since June 2019. The microbial contamination rates before and after each modification were compared. The clinic outcomes of patients with a history or at a high risk of microbial contamination were reported after incorporating the two modifications of COC handling. After the first modification was implemented, the contamination rate was remarkably reduced from 0.37% (9/2436) to 0.18% (2/1089). After adding the second modification, no new contamination occurred in the subsequent 3178 conventional IVF cycles (P = 0.001). Moreover, no contamination was noted in patients with a history of microbial contamination or persistent candidal vaginitis during conventional IVF after modifications of COC handling. Modifying the handling procedures of COC can minimize the microbial contamination rate in conventional IVF cycles. Contamination risk directly derived from the urogenital tracts might be less likely than what we thought to be with current IVF techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of blood culture has been widely recognized, and there is a need for monitoring to evaluate the accuracy of blood culture that reflects domestic healthcare systems. In this study, we assessed 6-year trends in blood culture quality assurance data. The Japan Infection Prevention and Control Conference for National and Public University Hospitals conducted yearly blood culture surveillance at 52 national public university hospitals from 2015 to 2020. Statistical analysis showed that comparison with the previous year showed significant differences in the number of blood cultures per 1000 patient-days in all years. The number of blood cultures per 1000 admissions was not significantly different in 2017 and 2018, but significant differences were shown in all other years. The multiple blood culture set rate was significantly different between non-pediatric inpatients and outpatients but not between pediatric inpatients and outpatients. The contamination rate did not differ significantly. For all parameters, significant differences were found when comparing 2015 and 2020. Our survey showed that although the sample number improved over time, even the most recent values for 2020 were lower than Cumitech's targets. It is difficult to assess whether these sample numbers are appropriate because target values have not been set for the various types of hospitals in Japan. Surveillance is a useful tool for monitoring quality assurance for blood culture. All parameters improved over the 6-year period, but it is necessary to establish a benchmark for evaluating optimization. We will continue to monitor quality assurance and work on setting benchmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the preferable explant types and sterilization method for tissue culture in Chinese chestnut, in order to provide a technical support for the asexual reproduction of Chinese chestnut. The base, middle and apex parts of annual shoots with buds in Chinese chestnut were sampled and cut to 2 -3 cm stem segments each with one bud, then sterilized orderly with different duration in 2% NaClO plus 0.1% HgCl2 solutions. The results indicated that the duration of 2% NaClO for 20 min +0.1% HgCl2 for 15 min exerted an effective disinfection property on the middle parts of annual shoots with buds, and achieved a contamination rate under 5% and a survival rate over 90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Duzce University Journal of Science & Technology is the property of Duzce University Journal of Science & Technology 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.)

In this paper, the Maize Streak Virus disease model which involves the Maize and the Homopteran population is considered. This system of the differential equation is analytically solved by using Adomian Decomposition Method. The analytical results are compared with numerical simulation by assuming certain values for the parameter. Further, the demolishing and contamination rate of contagious and receptive homopteran on receptive and contagious Maize plant (i1) i2 parameters are analyzed to reduce the contamination rate. In addition, the death rates of contagious maize, receptive homopteran and contagious homopteran (d1)d2 d3 are also discussed to remove the contagious population and make them free from Maize Streak Virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood cultures should be collected within an hour in the setting of sepsis/septic shock. The contamination rate should be below 3%. Worldwide reports have described an increase in blood contamination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed a retrospective analysis of the blood cultures collected during a 10-month period (March–December 2020) at NIID "Prof. Dr. Matei Balș". The results were compared with data from the pre-pandemic period (March–December 2016) and with the existing data in the literature. During the pandemic, there was a significant decrease in the number of blood cultures collected (1274 blood cultures in 2020 vs. 5399 in 2016). The contamination rate was higher in 2020 (11.7%) compared to 2016 (8.2%), p < 0.001. The rate of infectious episodes in which the etiological agent was identified was constant: 11% in 2020 versus 11.9% in 2016, p = 0.479, but there were fewer invasive bacterial/fungal infections: 0.95/1000 patient days in 2020 vs. 2.39/1000 patient days in 2016, p < 0.001. We observed a change in the species distribution. The Gram-negative isolate's proportion increased from 50.6% to 63.1% and the gram-positive isolate's proportion decreased from 31.8% to 19%. Collection of a low number of blood cultures and a high contamination rate was identified in our clinic. In order to improve the usefulness of blood cultures as a diagnostic method, at least two sets should be collected in aseptic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine differences in clinical characteristics of patients with bacteremia caused by Corynebacterium striatum, C. jeikeium, and other species of Corynebacterium, we retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients in Japan who had Corynebacterium bacteremia during January 2014–May 2020. Of the 115 records evaluated, 60 (52%) were cases of true bacteremia and 55 (48%) were cases of contamination. Proportions of true bacteremia cases caused by C. striatum (70%) and by C. jeikeium (71%) were significantly higher than those caused by other species of Corynebacterium (9%). These 2 organisms were commonly detected in blood cultures of patients with hematologic malignancies and neutropenia. The mortality rates at 90 days were 34% (C. striatum), 30% (C. jeikeium), and 0 (other species). Given the high mortality rates, assessing true bacteremia when C. striatum or C. jeikeium is detected in blood cultures, especially in patients with hematologic malignancy, is warranted.

ObjectiveTo understand the contamination of pathogens and the antibiotics resistance characterization in raw milk in China.MethodsA total of 53 raw milk samples collected from 43 pastures in different regions in China from September to November in 2019 were detected the contamination of six pathogens, and isolates were tested for the antibiotic resistant ability.ResultsThe contamination rates of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes were 62.26%(33/53), 20.75%(11/53), 5.66%(3/53)and 3.77%(2/53), respectively. The detection of Cronobacter and Salmonella were negative. A total of 117 isolates were selected for antibiotics resistance test and 58 strains were resistant to antibiotics, accounted for 49.57%(58/117). 33 of 90 gram-negative strains were resistant strains, accounted for 36.67%(33/90). 25 of 27 gram-positive bacteria were resistant strains, accounted for 92.59%(25/17).ConclusionThe bacterial contamination in raw milk collected from pastures in different regions was quite different, and showed a downward trend with the decrease of temperature. Isolates from raw milk showed a high multiple antibiotics resistance rate, suggesting a cautious control of veterinary antibiotics should be adopted.

Copyright of Journal of Food Safety & Quality is the property of Journal of Food Safety & Quality Editorial Department 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.)

Shee Wen Chua,1,2 Mushawiahti Mustapha,1 Kon Ken Wong,3 Malisa Ami,4 Aida Zairani Mohd Zahidin,5 Rona Asnida Nasaruddin1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 2Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia; 3Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 4Sunway Specialist Center Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; 5Gleneagles Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaCorrespondence: Mushawiahti MustaphaDepartment of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur, 56000, MalaysiaTel +60391455981Email drmusha@gmail.comPurpose: The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of microbial contamination of multi-user preserved ophthalmic drops (POD) in Ophthalmology Outpatient Clinic (OOC), to compare the rate of contamination between the dropper tip and the residual contents in the bottle, and to identify the contaminating organisms.Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study using a convenience sampling method conducted in the OOC of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, Malaysia. The samples of POD bottles were divided into groups obtained after 14 days (T14) and after 30 days (T30) of use. The contamination rate at the dropper tip and in the residual contents was determined and the contaminating organisms were identified.Results: A total of 140 of 149 extended-use POD bottles were included. The prevalence of contamination was 30%. There was a statistically significant difference in the rate of contamination between samples T14 and T30 (19% and 11%, respectively; p=0.046). Proparacaine and tropicamide showed higher contamination rates in the T14 samples (p=0.027 and p=0.497, respectively) than in the T30 samples. The site of contamination was higher at the dropper tip than in the residual contents (p> 0.05). Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species were the most frequently identified contaminants (89%).Conclusion: The dropper tip was more contaminated than the residual contents, and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species, which are common commensal flora of the ocular conjunctiva and skin, were the most frequently identified organisms.Keywords: contamination rate, extended period, preserved ophthalmic drops, multi-user

【Objective】Select the optimal seed surface sterilization method to improve Lilium pumilum′s aseptic seeding procedure.【Methods】Lilium pumilum seeds were cultured using aseptic sowing method. Seeds were disinfected with 1.0% NaClO or 0.1% HgCl2 with gradient treatment duration（0-30 min）. Seeds were then cultured on MS medium mixed with 6-BA 1.0 mg/L and NAA 0.1 mg/L. The germination and growth were monitored regularly.【Results】The contamination rate of 0.1% HgCl2 treatment was lower than that of 1.0% NaClO treatment at the same treatment time. Lilium pumilum seeds germination and growth were better with 0.1% HgCl2 treatment than with 1.0% NaClO treatment. Seed germination and growth increased initially then declined as treatment duration was extended. The best treatment was 15 min of 0.1% HgCl2,which had a 97.78% germination rate and superior seedling growth than the other treatments.【Conclusion】Lilium pumilum seeds had higher germination rate and better seedling growth after being treated with 0.1% HgCl2 for 15 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comparison of the radiation effect rates of the surface water polluted with radionuclides 137Cs and 90Sr and permissible levels (PL) of their activity is considered. A new approach to calculating the compliance index (CI), assessing the content of 137Cs or 90Sr in water, is proposed. The approach is based on the assumption of the CI dependence on the relative value of the deviation parameter. This parameter is determined in fractions of the minimum measured specific activity (MMSA) by the spectrometer. The influence of storage coefficient on the CI, which compensates for the inaccuracies in the MMSA calculation, is investigated. The algorithm for defining the stock coefficient as a function of the deviation parameter is proposed. The algorithm is based on the data from a series of measurements of a load. The equation for calculating the storage coefficient is presented. It uses a model to describe the distribution of the relative measurement error of the normalized Gaussian function. The suitability of the latter is justified by the results of measuring the activity of 137Cs. The representation of the Gaussian function argument by two parameters is applied. One is the deviation parameter, the other one adjusts the width of the distribution peak. The method of squared deviation minimization is used to define both parameters of the Gaussian function. According to the obtained values, the exponent optimally describes the experiment result. The universal equation for calculating the CI is established. A number of provisions of the theory of operational characteristics of the test are applied. The equation combines two separate relations, according to which the relation between CI and 137Cs or 90Sr can be calculated in the problem of the radioactive surface-water quality analysis. The calculations results of CI, storage coefficient and other parameters are presented. Measurement data of 137Cs activity in two model samples-analogues of the possible loads of surface water were used. The efficiency of the algorithm used for calculating the deviation intervals near the lower limit of measuring the activity of radionuclides is proved. The results correspond to the physical preconditions that are embedded in the spectrometric data processing model. The proposed ratios are efficient in determining the cleanliness class and water contamination rate in the process of interpreting the test results

Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine the contamination rates of urine samples sent to the microbiology laboratory in terms of age and gender and investigate the factors that affect these rates. Methods: 17 730 urine cultures sent to the microbiology laboratory between May 17, 2017 and November 8, 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. The bacteria that grew more than 104 CFU/ml in urine cultures were accepted as uropathogenic. Urogenital flora elements or cultures which resulted with three or more different strains were considered contaminated. Results: 6008 (33.9%) of the urine cultures were positive, and no growth was observed in 11 722 (66.1%). We evaluated 3647 (20.58%) of them as contamination. The contamination rate was 25.3% in female urine samples and 15.6% in male urine samples, (28.9%) in children less than 1-year-old and close to mean value in children older than 5 years old (19.9%). Mean values of boys aged in 0-5 years were higher than girls. Conclusions: In our study, the contamination rate between 0-5 years was higher than the others. It was higher in females and children under 5 years of age than other age groups (p<0.05). The contamination rate was highest in males under 5 years old and females older than 5 years old, and the difference was statistically significant (p=0.037 and p=0.000). Contamination may result from improper pre-analytical and post-analytical processes or it also may result from differences in agent identification. The rates can be reduced by using appropriate techniques for urine collection, storage, and transport, which are the main tasks of the pre-analytical phase. For this reason, the processes and the standards in identifications should be applied correctly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood culture is essential for the diagnosis of infectious disease. Appropriate treatment is administered according to blood culture results; thus, highly accurate tests are required. The present study obtained data from hospitals which are ranked among those with the highest number of beds in each prefecture (top 10%; 1,000 hospitals nationwide), beginning with 3,129 hospitals throughout Japan with =200 beds as of 2018. In total, 63 hospitals that gave their consent to participate in the study provided information regarding blood culture-related indicators over a 2-year period. The positive blood culture rate (95% confidence interval) was 15.4% (13.7-17.1%), the number of blood culture sets per 1,000 patient days was 21.5 (18.2-24.9), multiple set collection rate was 76.7% (71.1-82.3%) and the contamination rate was 3.1% (2.4-3.8%). Using these results as reference values for blood culture in Japanese healthcare facilities with =200 beds, the authors are attempting to approach these values at their resident hospitals and expect improved on-site interventions and educational activities regarding the state of blood culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood cultures should be collected within an hour in the setting of sepsis/septic shock. The contamination rate should be below 3%. Worldwide reports have described an increase in blood contamination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed a retrospective analysis of the blood cultures collected during a 10-month period (March–December 2020) at NIID “Prof. Dr. Matei Balș”. The results were compared with data from the pre-pandemic period (March–December 2016) and with the existing data in the literature. During the pandemic, there was a significant decrease in the number of blood cultures collected (1274 blood cultures in 2020 vs. 5399 in 2016). The contamination rate was higher in 2020 (11.7%) compared to 2016 (8.2%), p < 0.001. The rate of infectious episodes in which the etiological agent was identified was constant: 11% in 2020 versus 11.9% in 2016, p = 0.479, but there were fewer invasive bacterial/fungal infections: 0.95/1000 patient days in 2020 vs. 2.39/1000 patient days in 2016, p < 0.001. We observed a change in the species distribution. The Gram-negative isolate’s proportion increased from 50.6% to 63.1% and the gram-positive isolate’s proportion decreased from 31.8% to 19%. Collection of a low number of blood cultures and a high contamination rate was identified in our clinic. In order to improve the usefulness of blood cultures as a diagnostic method, at least two sets should be collected in aseptic conditions.

Copyright of Modern Food Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Office of Modern Food Science & Technology 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.)

Various disinfectants, such as povidone iodine (PVI)1, alcohol preparations, and chlorhexidine gluconate ethanol (CHG-ALC), are used for disinfection prior to blood sampling for culture. This retrospective cohort study compared the usefulness and effectiveness of CHG-ALC and PVI in pediatric venipuncture. We applied 0.5% w/v CHG-ALC or 10% PVI as an antiseptic for phlebotomies on pediatric outpatients and inpatients with suspected bacterial infection between November 2017 and April 2019. We conducted logistic regression analysis to define the differences associated with the choice of disinfectant, collection site, and the staff member collecting the blood sample (explanatory variables) and the presence of contamination (objective variable). Based on these results, we performed propensity score matching. The total number of specimens was 1460. The propensity score matching indicated that CHG-ALC reduced the incidence of blood culture contamination more effectively than PVI (0.4%, 2/479 cultures versus 2.5%, 12/479 cultures; relative risk, 0.163 [95% confidence interval, 0.036 to 0.733]; P = 0.012). There were no differences in the contamination rates between cultures of blood drawn from a vascular catheter and those of blood obtained percutaneously. Higher contamination rates were found when junior residents performed the venipuncture. Compared with PVI, CHG-ALC dries rapidly with no pigmentation and has a long-lasting antiseptic effect. Overall, CHG-ALC skin preparations were more efficacious than the PVI preparations for blood sampling in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the microorganism detection and contamination rate of donor eyes. Study design: Retrospective study. Methods: In this retrospective study, we reviewed all donor cornea data collected from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine (KPUM) Eye Bank, Kyoto, Japan from April 2015 to June 2018, including microbiologic data obtained from conjunctival swabs and preservation medium and findings of postoperative infection from the medical records. Results: During the study period, 77 eyes from 44 deceased individuals (mean age at time of death: 75 ± 17.3 years [range, 30–102 years]) were donated to the KPUM Eye Bank after being harvested using standard safety precautions and disinfection procedures. In 49 of the 77 eyes (63.6%), the conjunctival-swab culture revealed microorganisms, with the 3 most commonly detected being methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), methicillin-sensitive S aureus (MSSA), and methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA). The data revealed positive microorganism detection in only 4 (5.2%) of the 77 donor-cornea storage-medium cultures. Positive microorganism detection was found in all the age groups, with no statistical difference between the groups (P >.05). In the eyes enucleated ≥ 2.5 h postmortem, a higher positive microorganism detection occurred (P =.03). During the postoperative follow-up period, there was no record of corneal infection. Conclusions: The preenucleation conjunctival-swab-culture findings revealed that the rate of positive microorganism detection was similar for advanced-age and younger-age donors and that a shorter elapsed time from donor death to postmortem enucleation resulted in less donor-microorganism contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ecological Safety & Balanced Use of Resources is the property of Ivano-Frankivsk National Technical University of Oil & Gas (IFNTUOG) 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.)

BACKGROUND: Urine culture contamination is the result of mixing commensal flora of the lower urinary tract during the collection of midstream urine. As patients themselves collect urine sample, urine culture analysis depends on their collection method, which is an important preanalytical issue. OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research and SSKM Hospital, Kolkata, during the month of May and June 2016, with aim to assess the role of communication and verbal instructions explaining "Midstream clean-catch (MSCC) technique" before collection of urine to the adult female outpatients on urine "Culture Contamination Rate" (CCR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three hundred and ninety-six female patients were assigned in one of the two groups: "I" (Instructed) group (n = 196) and "N" (Nothing) group (n = 200). Verbal instructions in local (Bengali) language only provided to the Group "I". Urine samples were processed in the laboratory. Laboratory technicians and microbiologists were blinded about the groups. Urine culture results were collected from laboratory records. RESULTS: The CCR in the Group I and Group N was 6.1% and 19.5%, respectively (P < 0.001). Positive culture was observed in 31.6% (62/196) in Group I and 24.0% (48/200) in Group N, which was comparable statistically (P = 0.09). Instruction and communication have been found to be more effective at reduction of urine culture contamination among patients of the age group of 21–30 years (P < 0.001) and lower socioeconomic class (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: CCR was significantly lower in the group who were provided verbal instruction for MSCC. Thus, proper collection technique may reduce the need of the repeat sample due to contamination and prevent from the unnecessary antibiotic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of dedicated phlebotomy teams certified for blood collection has been reported to be highly cost-effective by reducing contamination rates. However, data on their effects on blood volume and true positive rate are limited. Therefore, we investigated the effect of replacing interns with a phlebotomy team on blood culture results. We performed a 24-month retrospective, quasi-experimental study before and after the introduction of a phlebotomy team dedicated to collecting blood cultures in a 2700-bed tertiary-care hospital. The microbiology laboratory database was used to identify adult patients with positive blood culture results. During the study period, there were no changes in blood collection method, blood culture tubes, and the application of antiseptic measures. Blood volume was measured by the BACTEC™ FX system based on red blood cell metabolism. A total of 162,207 blood cultures from 23,563 patients were analyzed, comprising 78,673 blood cultures during the intern period and 83,534 during the phlebotomy team period. Blood volume increased from a mean of 2.1 ml in the intern period to a mean of 5.6 ml in the phlebotomy team period (p < 0.001). Introduction of the phlebotomy team also reduced contamination rate (0.27% vs. 0.45%, p < 0.001) and led to a higher true positive rate (5.87% vs. 5.01%, p < 0.05). The increased true positive rate associated with the phlebotomy team involved both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The introduction of a dedicated phlebotomy team can increase blood volumes, reduce blood culture contamination rate, and increase true positive rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Clean-catch midstream urine (MSU) remains the standard procedure for urine collection even if it's role to reduce bacterial contamination rate is unclear. Objective To compare bacterial contamination rate between clean-catch (cleaning urethral meatus with medicated soap) and non clean-catch MSU among boys. Methods An experimental study with parallel groups and block randomization was conducted. Toilet-trained boys aged 3 to 18 years, without symptoms or signs of urinary tract infection were recruited from the Pediatric Outpatient Clinic at Sardjito Hospital and from a local elementary school. Subjects with history of renal disease, those who were on under antibiotic treatment in the preceding week, or with meatal abnormality or non-cooperative were excluded. Urine specimen was collected by a trained nurse, and was cultured within one hour by personnel blinded to the assignment. Significant bacteriuria was defined as growth of a single pathogenic organism (degree of pathogenicity group I-III) with colony count 2: 105 colony forming unit/mi. Contamination was defined as any growth not fulfilling criteria for significant bacteriuria or growth of multiple organisms. Results A total of 80 boys were enrolled. The contamination rate in the clean-catch group was 13% (5 out of 40) compared with 10% (4 out of 40) in the non clean-catch group (P=l.O). The adjusted risk ratio for contamination in the clean-catch MSU group, adjusted to age and circumcision status, was 1.37 (95% CI 0.42; 4.51). Conclusion Clean-catch method does not reduce bacterial con- tamination rate of midstream urine cultures in boys

Background and aims: Reduction in the number of blood culture and urine culture contamination samples. Materials and methods: We have designed a partly retrospective and partly prospective observational study. On one hand, we have been striving for the creation, dissemination and promotion of shared operational rules in all departments/hospital services to improve the quality of the levy; on the other hand, we analysed data. We considered blood cultures and urine cultures analysed in the laboratory from March to August 2015, and from March to August 2016. The data were processed with R and the incidence of contaminated samples was calculated by dividing the number of blood cultures/urine cultures contaminated by the total. The results of 2015 and 2016 were compared by χ2. To highlight the possible differences between departments and identify those at higher risk of contamination, the data of each year were stratified dividing departments into five groups: Medicine, Surgery, Critical Area, Specialties and ER. To assess the strength of the association, a risk analysis was carried out using the risk ratio (RR). The RR was calculated by dividing the contamination rates of 2015 by the those of 2016. The value of α was set at 0.05. Results: After implementation of the shared protocols, blood culture contamination was substantially reduced (−56.8%, P=1.783e-05), confirmed by an RR of 2.2 (95%CI: 1.54±3.27). The evidence is strengthened by the finding of a lower number of isolates belonging to the group of possible contaminants (−32.7%, P=2.042e-07) and confirmed by an RR of 1.5 (95%CI: 1.27±1.73). Urine culture data analysis showed no change in the incidence of contamination between 2015 and 2016 (P=0.8808), as confirmed by a non-informational RR (95%CI: 0.62±1:46). Even the analysis of the individual areas showed no change in the two semesters, as confirmed by the risk analysis that does not show any association between outcome and group. Conclusions: The results confirm the value of multidisciplinary work and encourage us to continue the path of standardisation and updating of the sampling procedures, as well as the prospective monitoring and comprehensive analysis of the data collected for longer time intervals.

Copyright of World's Poultry Science Journal is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd 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.)