Aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and vaginal candidiasis among women of reproductive age in Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia.

Reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are a persistent public health threat worldwide, particularly among women in low-income countries of Africa, including Ethiopia, where drug resistance is also a growing problem. It is crucial to address this problem to ensure women's health and well-being. A cross-sectional study was carried out among a cohort of 398 women of reproductive age who sought medical attention at the Gynecology Department of the Arba Minch General Hospital, southern Ethiopia, from January to June 2020. They were chosen through systematic random sampling, and a pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. The collection of vaginal and/or cervical swabs were done to diagnose bacterial vaginosis (BV) and aerobic vaginitis (AV) using Nugent and AV score analyses, respectively. The swabs were subjected to standard microbiological culture techniques to detect the isolates causing AV and vaginal candidiasis (VC). The susceptibility profiles of the causative agents of AV were checked by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were also done. Aerobic vaginitis was the predominantly diagnosed RTI (n = 122, 30.7%), followed by BV (n = 117, 29.4%) and VC (n = 111, 27.9%). The prominent bacteria of AV were Escherichia coli (n = 36, 34.2%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 30, 28.5%). The overall rate of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria was 65.71% (n = 69). History of abortion (p = 0.01; AOR = 4.0, 95% CI = 2.1, 7.7) and the habit of using vaginal pH-altering contraceptives (p = 0.01; AOR = 4.7, 95% CI = 2.5, 8.8) have the greatest odds of RTI. The high prevalence of RTIs in our study warrants an urgent intervention to minimize the associated morbidities and complications. The overall rate of MDR bacterial isolates necessitates the implementation of an effective surveillance program in the study setting.

Synthesis of a New Series of Anthraquinone-Linked Cyclopentanone Derivatives: Investigating the Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Cytotoxic and Tyrosinase Inhibitory Activities of the Mushroom Tyrosinase Enzyme Using Molecular Docking.

Purpose: New bioactive anthraquinone derivatives are investigated for antibacterial, tyrosinase inhibitory, antioxidant cytotoxic activity, and molecular docking. Methods: The compounds were produced using the grindstone method, yielding 69 to 89%. These compounds were analyzed using IR, 1H, and 13C NMR and elemental and mass spectral methods. Additionally, the antibacterial, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory activities of all the synthesised compounds were evaluated. Results: Compound 2 showed remarkable tyrosinase inhibition activity, with an (IC50: 13.45 µg/mL), compared to kojic acid (IC50: 19.40 µg/mL). It also exhibited moderate antioxidant and antibacterial activities with respect to the references BHT and ampicillin, respectively. Kinetic analysis revealed that the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of compound 2 was non-competitive and competitive, whereas that of compound 1 was low. All compounds (1-8) were significantly less active than doxorubicin (LC50: 0.74±0.01µg/mL). However, compound 2 affinity for the 2Y9X protein was lower than kojic acid, with a lower docking score (-8.6 kcal/mol compared to (-4.7 kcal/mol), making it more effective. Conclusion: All synthesized compounds displayed remarkable antibacterial, tyrosinase inhibitory, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities, with compound 2 showing exceptional potency as a multitarget agent. Anthraquinone substituent groups may offer the potential for the development of treatments. The derivatives were synthesized using the grindstone method, and their antibacterial, antioxidant, tyrosinase inhibitory, and cytotoxic activities were inspected. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed using compound 2 and kojic acid to validate the results and confirm the stability of the compounds.

Prevalence, severity and associated risk factors of anemia among human immunodeficiency virus-infected adults in Sawla General Hospital, Southern Ethiopia: A facility-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Anemia is a significant public health problem in HIV/AIDS patients worldwide. This study is aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and its risk factors among HIV-infected adults in Sawla General Hospital, southern Ethiopia. METHODS: A facility-based cross-sectional study involving HIV-infected adults was conducted in ART clinic of Sawla General Hospital from April 01 to May 31, 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to recruit the study participants. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire and checklist. Hemoglobin concentration from venous blood was determined by HemoCue® 301 analyzer. Descriptive and inferential statistics, by Statistical Package for Social Science version 26.0, were applied; p-values ≤ 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression analysis were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 220 HIV-infected adults participated in this study. The prevalence of anemia was 38.6%, from which 90.6, 7.1, and 2.3% are mild, moderate, and severe anemia, respectively. Anemia among HIV-infected adults was significantly associated with CD4 cell count below 200 cells/mm3 (AOR: 4.32; 95% CI: 2.10-8.86), clinical stage III or above (AOR: 4.20; 95% CI: 1.06-16.62), five or more years duration of HIV infection (AOR: 2.32; 95% CI: 1.08-4.94) and BMI below 18.5 kg/m2 (AOR: 3.82; 95% CI: 1.83-8.00). CONCLUSION: Anemia is a moderate public health problem among the study population. Longer duration of HIV infection, advanced clinical stage, lower CD4 cell count, and BMI are risk factors for anemia. Therefore, early ART enrolment for HIV-infected adults with nutritional support and rigorous monitoring of CD4 cell count are essential to lower the prevalence.

Factors Associated with Otitis Media Among Pediatrics in Two Government Hospitals in Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia.

Background: Bacterial otitis media (OM) is a common infection among the pediatric community worldwide and is the first reason for prescribing antibiotics in pediatric practices. However, if not promptly diagnosed and appropriately treated, it may persist and cause severe intra- and extra-cranial hard-to-cure complications. Hence, knowing the magnitude, etiology, and antibiotic susceptibility profile is very important for the proper management. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 312 pediatrics (1 to 18 years) attending the Ear Nose Throat outpatient departments of the two title hospitals from 25 February to 30th August 2022. Patients were chosen through a systematic random sampling method. Data were obtained by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. Samples were collected to identify the causative bacteria as per microbiological guidelines. The antibiotic susceptibility test was done according to the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion; SPSS version 25 was used for the analysis. Results: The overall prevalence of otitis media was 67.3% (n=210); CSOM showed a slight preponderance (n=107) Gram-negative bacteria and Gram-positive bacteria were present in 59.8% (n=137) and 40.1% (n=92), respectively. Otitis media was predominantly caused by S. aureus (n=52, 56.5%), followed by Proteus spp. (n=33, 24%). Gram-negative bacteria were highly resistant to co-trimoxazole, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, piperacillin, and tetracycline, whereas their positive counterparts were considerably penicillin and co-trimoxazole resistant. Overall, 61.5 and 19.2% of the isolates were MDR and XDR, respectively. MRSA, MR-CoNs, and VRE were 38.4% (n=20), 17.1% (n=5), and 58.3% (n=12), respectively; 19.7% (n=25) of Gram-negative bacteria produced ESBL, and 7% (n=9) were carbapenem-resistant. History of exposure to loud noise [AOR=3.4; CI=1.14-10.23; P-value=0.028] and family history of smoking at home [AOR=2.9; CI=1.18-7.25; P-value=0.020] have the greatest odds of otitis media. Conclusion: Overall, the prevalence of otitis media is showing an upward trend, and MDR among bacterial isolates is increasing alarmingly.

Bacteriological quality and safety of bottle food and associated factors among bottle-fed babies attending pediatric outpatient clinics of Government Health Institutions in Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Microbial contamination of baby bottle food has been identified as a significant public health concern, especially in developing countries, but it remains overlooked. Therefore, this study aimed to determine microbiological hazards, compliance with hygiene practices, and critical control points of contamination in baby bottle food in Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the bacteriological quality and prevalence of foodborne pathogens in baby bottle food and to identify associated factors among bottle-fed babies attending three government health institutions in Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February 24 and March 30, 2022. A total of 220 food samples, comprising four types prepared with different sources of materials, were collected from systematically selected bottle-fed babies attending health facilities. The data on sociodemographic characteristics, food hygiene, and handling practices were solicited by face-to-face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire. Food samples (10 mL) were quantitatively analyzed for total viable counts (TVC) and total coliform count (TCC) and qualitatively for the presence of common foodborne bacterial pathogens. Data were analyzed using SPSS; ANOVA and multiple linear regression analyses were done to identify factors influencing microbial counts. RESULTS: Results revealed that the means and standard deviations of TVC and TCC were 5.3 ± 2.3 log10 colony forming units (CFU)/mL and 4.1 ± 2.6 log10 CFU/mL, respectively. Of the various food samples analyzed, 57.3 and 60.5% had a TVC and TCC above the maximum acceptable limits, respectively. The result of the ANOVA showed that there was a significant difference in the mean score of TCV and TCC among the four types of food samples (p < 0.001). Enterobacteriaceae were found in the majority of positive food samples (79.13%), followed by Gram-positive cocci (20.8%). Salmonella spp., diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus were the common foodborne pathogens detected in 8.6% of tested foods. The regression result revealed that the type of baby food, hand washing practices of mothers or caregivers, and sterilizing and disinfecting procedures of feeding bottles are independent determinants of bacterial contamination (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The high microbial load and the presence of potential foodborne bacterial pathogens in the bottle food samples analyzed indicate unsanitary practices and the potential risk of exposure to foodborne pathogens in bottle-fed babies. Thus, interventions such as educating parents about proper hygiene practices, sterilizing feeding bottles and limiting bottle feeding practices are critical to reducing the risk of foodborne to bottle-fed infants.

Antibacterial Activity Against Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Isolates of Nine Plants from Chencha, Southern Ethiopia.

Background: The diminishing efficacy of antibiotics currently in use and the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria pose a grave threat to public health worldwide. Hence, new classes of antimicrobials are urgently required, and the search is continuing. Methods: Nine plants were chosen for the current work, which are collected from the highlands of Chencha, Ethiopia. Plant extracts containing secondary metabolites in various organic solvents were checked for antibacterial activity against type culture bacterial pathogens and MDR clinical isolates. The broth dilution technique was used to evaluate the minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentrations of highly active plant extracts, and time-kill kinetic and cytotoxic assays were performed using the most active plant extract. Results: Two plants (C. asiatica and S. marianum) were highly active against ATCC isolates. The EtOAc extract of C. asiatica produced the highest zone of inhibition ranging between 18.2±0.8-20.7±0.7 and 16.1±0.4-19.2±1.4 mm against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. The EtOH extract of S. marianum displayed zones of inhibition in the range of 19.9±1.4-20.5±0.7 mm against the type culture bacteria. The EtOAc extract of C. asiatica effectively curbed the growth of six MDR clinical isolates. The MIC values of C. asiatica against the Gram-negative bacteria tested were 2.5 mg/mL, whereas the corresponding MBC values were 5 mg/mL in each case. The MIC and MBC values were the lowest in the case of Gram-positive bacteria, ie, 0.65 and 1.25 mg/mL, respectively. A time-kill assay showed the inhibition of MRSA at 4 × MIC and 8 × MIC within 2 hours of incubation. The 24 h LD50 values of C. asiatica and S. marianum corresponding to Artemia salina were 3.05 and 2.75 mg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: Overall results substantiate the inclusion of C. asiatica and S. marianum as antibacterial agents in traditional medicines.

Community-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection Among Sexually Active Women: Risk Factors, Bacterial Profile and Their Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns, Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia.

Background: Globally, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue among women. Investigating risk factors associated with culture-proven UTIs and the antimicrobial resistance profile of uropathogens would provide insight into planning prevention and control measures. Objective: To identify the risk factors associated with UTIs among sexually active women and determine antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of uropathogenic bacterial isolates. Methods: A case-control study was conducted from February to June 2021, involving 296 women (62 case group and 234 control group in a ratio of 4:1). Cases were defined as culture-confirmed UTIs, and controls were non-UTIs. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic, clinical, and behavioral data. The antimicrobial susceptibility test was done by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify risk factors, and the strength of association was measured by adjusted odds ratios and a 95% confidence interval used at P-values < 0.05. Results: The results revealed that recent coitus and frequency of coitus more than three times per week (P=0.001) were independent predictors of UTIs. Swabbing from back to front, a history of UTI and a delay in voiding were also independent predictors (P < 0.05). On the other hand, a daily water intake of 1 to 2 litres reduced the risk of UTI (P= 0.001). The predominant uropathogenic isolate was Escherichia coli (35.48%). Over 60% of isolates were resistant to cotrimoxazole, penicillin, cephalosporin, and fluoroquinolones. The most effective antibiotics included piperacillin-tazobactam, aminoglycosides, carbapenem, and nitrofurantoin. 85% and 50% of isolates were MDR and ESBL producers, respectively. Conclusion: The finding indicates the importance of public intervention targeting the identified risk factors and the resistance phenotype to reduce the burden of UTIs with antimicrobial resistance in the study area.

Magnitude and associated factors of bacterial urinary tract infections among paediatric patients in Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia.

Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTI) commonly occur in children; if left untreated, they may result in severe consequences such as uro-sepsis and renal damage. This study aimed to determine the bacterial profile, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and associated factors among paediatric patients suspected of urinary tract infections in Arba Minch General Hospital (AMGH). An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 01 October 2020 to 31 January 2021. A convenient sampling technique was used to recruit the participants; data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. To quantify the bacteria (as per the Kass count, >105CFU/ml), midstream urine samples were streaked onto bacteriological media. Isolates were identified by following standard procedures. The antibiotic susceptibility test was performed as per the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Out of the 246 children included, 38 (15.4%) were found to be positive for significant bacteriuria. Isolates of Escherichia coli, 9/38 (23.7%), and Staphylococcus aureus, 9/38 (23.7%), were the most predominant. The majority of Gram-negative bacterial (GNB) isolates showed resistance towards amoxicillin-clavulanate (89.5%), ampicillin (84.6%), and ceftazidime (81%). Likewise, 76.9 and 76.5% of Gram-positive bacteria (GPB), respectively, had shown resistance towards co-trimoxazole and tetracycline. Multi-drug and extensively drug resistance were detected respectively in the case of 68.4 and 15.8% of the total isolates; ESBL production was found in 57.1% of GNB, whereas 55.6% of S. aureus were methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The process of un-circumcision was significantly associated with UTI [(adjusted odds ratio= 3.578; 95% confidence interval: 1.263 - 10.13; p=0.016)].

Magnitude and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Gram-Negative bacterial isolates among patients suspected of urinary tract infections in Arba Minch General Hospital, southern Ethiopia.

The emergence of drug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial uropathogens poses a grave threat worldwide, howbeit studies on their magnitude are limited in most African countries, including Ethiopia. Therefore, measuring the extent of their drug resistance is essential for developing strategies to confine the spread. A cross-sectional study was conducted at title hospital from 01 June to 31 August 2020. Midstream urine specimens were collected and inoculated onto MacConkey agar. Positive urine cultures showing significant bacteriuria as per the Kass count (>105 CFU/mL) were further subjected to biochemical tests to identify the type of uropathogens. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique, and potential carbapenemase producers were phenotypically determined by the modified carbapenem inactivation method as per the CLSI guidelines. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26; P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Totally, 422 patients were included, and the majority were females (54.7%). The prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative uropathogens was 12.9%, and 64.7% of them were carbapenemase producers. Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 5) was the predominant carbapenemase producer, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 4). Consumption of antibiotics prior to six months of commencement of the study, the presence of chronic diseases and hospitalizations were statistically associated with UTI caused by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative uropathogens. Carbapenemase producers were resistant to most of the antibiotics tested. Our findings highlight the need for periodic regional bacteriological surveillance programs to guide empirical antibiotic therapy of UTI.

Buruli Ulcer and Medical Geo-Microbiology.

Buruli ulcer is a chronic debilitating infectious disease caused by the pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans, which can be cured if diagnosed and treated in an early stage. However, advanced cases need antibiotic treatment followed by surgical interventions. In this context, an extremely effective and less expensive treatment modality can be developed by means of an extended topical application of certain selected natural clay minerals, most of the time containing illite-smectite having some iron content. There is a scope for developing the speciality, medical geo-microbiology, which is truly a multidisciplinary one, for finding a cure for the severe and advanced cases of BU.

Bioassay-Guided Phytochemical Analyses and Antimicrobial Potentials of the Leaf Extract of Clematis hirsuta Perr. and Guill. Against Some Pathogenic Bacteria and Fungi.

Background: In spite of the great advances in modern medicine in recent decades, medicines of plant origin are still in use for several ailments in different parts of the world. There is always an urge to develop novel, effective and inexpensive antimicrobials. This study was aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical composition of the leaf extract of Clematis hirsuta against selected human bacterial and fungal pathogens. Methods: The crude extracts of C. hirsuta leaves were prepared with five different solvents of varying polarity. Agar well diffusion assay on five different species of ATCC organisms, four clinical bacterial isolates, and four clinically isolated fungi were performed. The tube dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations and the selected extract was subjected to bio-assay-guided fractionation using column chromatography and the active fraction obtained were pooled and GC-MS, FT-IR, and CHN analysis were conducted, and this study is actually bioassay-guided research. Results: A varying patterns of antimicrobial activity against tested microorganism was observed. Acetone extract showed the highest spectrum of activity (17-32mm) in the well diffusion assay against bacteria and 16-23mm in the case of fungi. The MIC ranged from 7.5-60 mg/mL in the case of bacteria and 15-60 mg/mL against fungi. The bioassay-guided column chromatography of the acetone extract followed by GC-MS showed the presence of three major compounds, specifically O-ethylhydroxylamine (43%), 2-ethyl heptanoic acid (20.6%), and 1-nonyl cycloheptane (19.5%). The finding was confirmed by FT-IR and elemental analysis of TLC-separated fractions. Conclusion: The acetone extract showed better antimicrobial activity and the least minimum inhibition concentrations against bacteria compared to fungi. The observed antibacterial can be assigned to the presence of alkoxy amine, alkyl aliphatic acids, and cycloalkane. The overall findings substantiate the traditional usages of the parts of this plant, especially the leaves, in managing infectious diseases.

Design of 1,4-Dihydropyridine Hybrid Benzamide Derivatives: Synthesis and Evaluation of Analgesic Activity and Their Molecular Docking Studies.

Purpose: This study aims to determine the analgesic activity of 1,4-dihydropyridine hybrid benzamide derivatives. These hybrid derivatives were synthesized, and their analgesic activity was studied. The synthesis method applied was a one-step reaction involving a green chemistry approach. Methods: The compounds were prepared via the amination method with a yield ranging between 82% and 93%. The title compounds were confirmed by means of IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and mass spectral analyses. The pharmacological activity of all the synthesized compounds was evaluated, and the analgesic activities were monitored in vivo (by tail immersion methods), with a digital analgesiometer. The drug response and damage of tail ata concentration of 10 mg/kg were measured by tail-flicking latency. Results: The activity of compound 2c (81.35% activity at 5mg/kg) can be correlated with its salicylamidemoiety (13.99% activity at 5mg/kg), and diclofenac showed comparable activity (79.21% activity at 5mg/kg reference drugs). Compound 2c has a higher potential to inhibit COX proteins compared to diclofenac. The drug-like nature of the molecule 2c corresponds to its ADME properties. Conclusion: In this study, all the synthesized compounds were found to possess significant analgesic activities; particularly, the performance of compound 2c is excellent. Thus, the preparative method described is an apt route for developing novel therapeutic formulations.

Ethno-pharmacological investigations of Moringa stenopetala Bak. Cuf. and its production challenges in southern Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION: Moringa stenopetala Bak. Cuf. is a native plant of Ethiopia with important nutraceutical applications. However, little is known about its nutritional, ethno-pharmaceutical and therapeutic properties. Hence, the present study sought to assess the nutraceutical applications of M. stenopetala among traditional healers in southern Ethiopia. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 selected administrative units in Gamo Gofa, Segen areas and south Omo zones of southern Ethiopia from May to June 2020. Data were gathered using a semi-structured interview, field observation, and group discussion. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using Excel 2019 and open code version 4.03, respectively. The results were presented using descriptive statistics, with the fidelity level (FL)% used to distinguish the preferential use of various plant parts. RESULTS: A total of 120 individuals participated in the study, and the majority of them, 89 (74.2%), were male and farmers by occupation. Eight four (70%) of them were residents of the Gamo Gofa Zone. The fidelity level revealed that the leaf and root were the most commonly used parts for nutraceutical purposes. Remarkably, M. stenopetala is used to treat human ailments such as leprosy and kidney and liver infections via various modes of utilisation and administration. As a result, the most common methods of utilising plant products are chewing or consuming crushed plant parts, and the oral route is the much-preferred method of application. On the other hand, the larvae of Moringa moth Nurda blitealis, are a defoliating insect during the rainy season and have been identified as a limiting factor for its production. CONCLUSIONS: The nutraceutical aspects of M. stenopetala are extremely important to the rural community in southern Ethiopia. However, the defoliating moth larvae threaten its growth and biomass production, necessitating the need to manage and improve the plant's productivity and sustainable use. Additionally, conducting experimental studies to validate the plant's pharmacological potential correspond to a milestone in drug discovery.

Bacteriological quality and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of isolates of ready-to-eat raw minced meat from hotels and restaurants in Arba Minch, Ethiopia.

In Ethiopia, the bacteriological quality of ready-to-eat raw meat is of a great public health concern as it can serve as a source of meat-borne pathogens and worsen the transmission of antimicrobial resistant bacteria, and hence this cross-sectional study, done on 257 meat samples (ie., 169 beef, 50 mutton and 38 chevon) from randomly selected hotels and restaurants (n = 52). Approximately 25 gm of meat samples were taken bi-weekly and subjected to quantitative and qualitative analyses; antimicrobial susceptibility tests were done as per the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. It was found that 13.2 (n = 34), 17.5 (n = 45) and 21.8% (n = 56) samples exceeded the permissible limit for total viable and coliform and S. aureus counts, respectively. At the same time, 24.9% (n = 64) surpassed the bacteriological limit permissible for consumption. Overall, 36.6% (n = 94) of samples were extrapolated as unsatisfactory for consumption due to high bacterial load and or the presence of pathogens. Five different bacterial spp. such as E. coli 65% (n = 167), S. aureus 59% (n = 152), Salmonella spp. 28.4% (n = 73), Campylobacter spp. 14.4% (n = 37) and Shigella spp. 4.3% (n = 11) were isolated in varied proportions. Alarmingly, 60% (n = 264) of the isolates were multi-drug resistant and 51% of S. aureus were found to be MRSA.

Indoor air microbial load, antibiotic susceptibility profiles of bacteria, and associated factors in different wards of Arba Minch General Hospital, southern Ethiopia.

The levels of indoor air microbial load in hospitals are very crucial to the health of patients and health care workers and are to be regularly monitored and maintained at an acceptable level. However, this problem remains overlooked, particularly in developing countries including Ethiopia. A hospital-based cross-sectional study is designed to determine the indoor air microbial load (settle plate technique), microbial isolates (standard microbiological techniques), bacterial susceptibility profiles (Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique), and associated factors, in different wards of the title Hospital, southern Ethiopia. An observational checklist was used to collect relevant information related to the associated factors; descriptive and inferential statistics were applied using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS); p-values ≤ 0.05 in the multivariable analysis were considered statistically significant. The total average bacterial and fungal load of the selected wards was 1914±1081.4 Colony Forming Units (CFU)/m3 (95% CI: 1718.5-2109.48 CFU/m3) and 1533.7±858.8 CFU/m3 (95% CI: 1378.5-1688CFU/m3) respectively. The highest mean bacterial (1914±1081.4 CFU/m3) and fungal (1533.7±858.8 CFU/m3) loads were found in the male surgical and female medical wards respectively. A total of 229 bacterial and 139 fungal isolates were obtained; Gram-positive bacteria were the predominant type, 130 (56.7%), particularly the isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, 46 (20.1%). The predominant fungal isolates were Aspergillus sp., 53(38%). Percentages of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), and carbapenemase producers respectively were 48.5, 26.5, and 25%. High room crowd index [p = 0.003; Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 12.5 (Confidence Interval (CI) 95%: 2.42-65)], presence of damp/wet materials [p = 0.025; AOR 7 (CI 95%: 1.3-37.4)], intense room traffic [p = 0.004; AOR 9.6 (CI 95%: 1.2-79.3)], inappropriate storage of food and drugs [p = 0.008; AOR 7.5 (CI 95%: 1.7-32)], and unclean environment [p = 0.03; AOR 5.8 (CI 95%: 1.2-28)] showed statistical significance concerning the indoor air microbial loads; most of the wards in Arba Minch General Hospital (AMGH) stand high and not in an acceptable level as per the WHO and the European Commission standards on indoor air microbial load. Periodic air surveillance and infection prevention control programs are required to reduce the transmission of these microbes to inpatients, visitors, and health care workers.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Mosquito Larvicidal Activity of Essential Oils from Hyptis capitata Jacq.

Background: Mortality and morbidity associated with vector-borne diseases, particularly those caused by mosquitoes, are increasing and new means of controlling them, including bio-larvicides, are needed. Malaria is a serious threat in many countries of Africa and Asia, and eco-friendly vector preventing measures are very much essential. Plant-derived larvicides are of great importance in this context. Hyptis capitata is an aromatic medicinal plant which is widely distributed in tropical countries. The aim of the present study is to examine the chemical composition, antioxidant and mosquito larvicidal effects of essential oils of this plant, extracted by hydro-distillation. Methods: Chemical compositions of essential oils were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antioxidant activity was tested by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl) hydrazyl (DPPH) assay and the mosquito larvicidal activity was checked against the fourth instar larvae of the malarial vector Anopheles stephensi. Fingerlings of Oreochromis mossambicus were used as a bio-model for toxicity studies. Results: A total of 48 constituents, inclusive of 44 (94.67%) from inflorescence and 19 (97.09%) from leaf oil were identified; δ-cadinene (14.68%) and linalool (6.99%) were the major constituents of the inflorescence oil, while leaf oil contained 1-octen-3-ol (34.08%), methyl linoleate (17.2%), and germacrene D (11.16%). Antioxidant analysis showed an effective concentration (EC50) value of 22.76 µg/mL for leaf oil and 26.18 µg/mL for the inflorescence oil, corresponding to 17.57 µg/mL of ascorbic acid. Both oils showed a respectable larvicidal effect and the lethal concentrations (LC50) are 39.08 µg/mL and 33.19 µg/mL for the inflorescence and leaf oil, respectively. Notably, both the inflorescence and leaf oils are not very toxic to fish with respect to the concentrations tested. Conclusion: This study showed that the essential oils extracted from the leaves and inflorescences of H. capitata are effective antioxidants and can act as inexpensive mosquito larvicidal agents.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization among medicine and health science students, Arba Minch University, Ethiopia.

Individuals with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonized nasal cavities were at greater risk of developing the infection and can serve as potential reservoirs of transmission. Aim of this study is to determine the extent of nasal carriage and associated factors linked to MRSA in medical and health science students of Arba Minch University (AMU), Ethiopia, who are much prone. An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted at AMU from 01st August through 30th November, 2020 by means of a systematic sampling technique using a structured questionnaire. Nasal swabs samples were collected and S. aureus were identified following standard microbiological methods. Methicillin resistance was tested using cefoxitin disk and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion. Biofilm forming ability was phenotypically detected by micro-titer plate assay. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis were done by Statistical Package for Social Service (SPSS) version 25. The overall prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA were 27.1% (70/258) and 7.4% (19/258) respectively. Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus carriage were higher among medical interns, 16.9% (11/65). Isolates in general were co-resistant to antibiotics, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (63.2%) and tetracycline (48.4%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) were observed among 52.6% (10/19) of the isolates. Besides, 31.4% (6/19) of MRSA were biofilm producers and all of them were MDR. Multivariable analysis showed that mean exposure for > 2 years to hospital settings [p = 0.048, AOR: 4.99, 95% CI 1.01-24.66] and the habit of sharing clothing and sports equipment [p = 0.017, AOR: 5.43, 95% CI 1.35-21.83] were statistically significant. The overall prevalence of nasal colonized MRSA among students were comparatively lower than that observed in other studies done in Ethiopia itself. An alarming factor is that, 60% of MDR-MRSA were biofilm producers.

Antibiofilm Potential of Alpha-Amylase from a Marine Bacterium, Pantoea agglomerans.

Bacterial biofilms are a big menace to industries and the environment and also in the health sector, accumulation of which is a major challenge. Despite intensive efforts to curb this issue, a definitive solution is yet to be achieved. Enzyme-templated disruption of the extracellular matrix of biofilm and its control and elimination are emerging as an efficient and greener strategy. The study describes the antibiofilm potential of alpha-amylase from the marine microorganism Pantoea agglomerans PCI05, against food-borne pathogens. Amylase exhibited stability in a wide pH range and retained 50% of its activity at temperatures as high as 100°C. Thermal analysis of the enzyme produced showed thermal stability, up to 130°C. From these findings, it can be envisaged that the alpha-amylase produced from P. agglomerans can be used for starch liquefaction; it was also evaluated for antibiofilm activity. Amylase from this marine bacterium was found to efficiently disrupt the preformed biofilms of food-borne pathogens such as Bacillus cereus, Serratia marcescens, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella enterica enterica serotype Typhi based on the value of biofilm inhibitory concentrations.

Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Cytotoxic Activity of Excoecaria agallocha Leaf Extract.

BACKGROUND: Mangroves contain several bioactive compounds, some of which have been used for centuries as remedies for several ailments. METHODS: Foliar parts of Excoecaria agallocha were extracted in organic solvents and in water using a Soxhlet apparatus and evaluated for antimicrobial activity against nine type-culture pathogens, six clinical isolates, and two fungal pathogens with agar well diffusion assays. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by broth dilution and extracts further subjected to brine-shrimp cytotoxic assays using Artemia salina. Chemical constituents were analyzed with thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Ethyl acetate extract displayed the broadest antimicrobial activity. Isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were found to be the most susceptible among the clinical and type-culture groups corresponding to inhibition zones: 17.3±1.1 and 23.5±1.3 mm in diameter, respectively. Anticandidal activity was found to be lower against Candida albicans and C. tropicalis (10.3±0.6 and 11.9±0.85 mm diameter). Also, this extract was found to be bactericidal for S. aureus and Micrococcus luteus (MBC:MIC ≤2). C cytotoxic activity LD50 was 521 µg/mL. On GC-MS, squalene [(6E, 10E, 4E, 18E)-2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosa-2,6,10,14,18,22-hexaene] was the major compound. Bioassay-guided (antibacterial) TLC revealed the presence of one major active fraction, F2, with an Rf value of 1.21. FT-IR analysis of this fraction also implied that it was squalene, which might have a functional role in the mechanism of chemical defense.

Potato Peels Mediated Synthesis of Cu(II)-nanoparticles from Tyrosinase Reacted with bis-(N-aminoethylethanolamine) (Tyr-Cu(II)-AEEA NPs) and Their Cytotoxicity against Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line.

The synthesis of nanoparticles is most important in the context of cancer therapy, particularly copper nanoparticles, which are widely used. In this work, copper(II)-tyrosinase was isolated from potato peel powder. Copper nanoparticles (Tyr-Cu(II)-AEEA NPs) were synthesized via the reaction of tyrosinase with N-aminoethylethanolamine to produce Cu(II)-NPs and these were characterized by means of FT-IR, UV-Spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, TEM and a particle size analyzer. These Tyr-Cu(II)-AEEA NPs were tested as anticancer agents against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Fluorescence microscopy and DNA fragmentation were also performed, which revealed the inhibiting potentials of Cu(II)-AEEA NPs and consequent cell death; Tyr-Cu(II)-AEEA NPs show potential cytotoxicity activity and this nano material could be contemplated as an anticancer medicament in future investigations.