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Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis (B. anthracis), is an important zoonotic disease of livestock that poses a threat to public safety. The present study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Bacillus anthracis in sheep and cattle in endemic areas (Punjab and Balochistan provinces) of Pakistan by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cross-sectional survey was also done to assess the control measures of the farmers. Out of 401 serum samples from sheep and cattle, a total of 68 (16.9%) samples were seropositive for anti-PA antibodies; seroprevalence of B. anthracis in sheep and cattle was 22.11% (48/217) and 10.86% (20/184), respectively. Seroprevalence was significantly higher (p<0.05) in Baluchistan province (33.3%, 44/132) compared to Punjab province (8.92%, 24/269). Most farmers (65.90%, 29/44) were not disposing carcasses as recommended. Around 77.28%, 17/22 of the veterinary officials reported the non-availability of vaccine against anthrax and 63.63% (14/22) stated the lack of cold chain for the vaccine storage and transportation. We concluded that seroprevalence of B. anthracis in unvaccinated sheep and cattle is evidence that the pathogen is circulating in Baluchistan and Punjab provinces. So must applied an active surveillance and, strengthened veterinary practices vaccination programs to control anthrax outbreaks in endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of chronic indwelling urinary catheters (IUCs) on the composition and stability of the urinary microbiota remains unknown. The primary aim of this study was to describe the urinary microbiomes of geriatric males with chronic IUCs. A secondary aim was to explore clinical catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) courses of the participants. Geriatric male patients with chronic IUCs were followed longitudinally. Catheterized urine, catheter tips, and both urethral and periurethral swabs were collected from participants at monthly intervals. Microbes were isolated and identified from each specimen using an enhanced culture method called expanded quantitative urine culture (EQUC) and targeted 16S rRNA gene DNA sequencing. Microbial outcomes were examined both in the absence of urinary symptoms and in the context of clinical diagnosis of CAUTI. Ten male participants (mean age 86 years) were enrolled. Urinary microbiomes differed for each participant. However, within each individual, microbiomes were similar over time and across niches (bladder, catheter, urethra, and periurethra). Within-niche microbiomes differed across individuals, and this was observed over time. The most abundant bacteria isolated from all niches were known uropathogens. Six of 10 individuals met diagnostic criteria for CAUTI at least once during the 12-month observation period, but no evidence of this or antibiotic treatment/response was discernable in our monthly samples. The microbiomes of each participant were unique and remained similar over time and across niches. Longitudinal EQUC or 16S rRNA gene sequencing data could be useful to clinicians when diagnosing or treating possible CAUTI.IMPORTANCECatheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are serious but preventable nosocomial infections. The most common risk factor for developing CAUTI is prolonged use of indwelling urinary catheters (IUCs). This study provides the first longitudinal description of the urinary microbiomes of geriatric males with chronic IUCs, in the absence of urinary signs and symptoms, as a first step toward enhancing our knowledge of the impact of chronic IUCs on the composition and stability of the urinary microbiota. This is an understudied area, particularly for males., Competing Interests: A.J.W. discloses membership on the Scientific Advisory Boards of Urobiome Therapeutics and Pathnostics. He also discloses funding from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, Pathnostics, and an anonymous donor. J.P.P. discloses membership on the Shionogi and Innoviva speaker's bureaus. The other authors have no relevant disclosures.