Consumer Exposure to Antimicrobial Resistant Bacteria From Food at Swiss Retail Level

Genomic nano-biosensor for rapid detection of the carbapenem-resistant gene bla NDM-1 in carbapenemase-producing bacteria

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become one of the major public health concerns causing serious obstacles to the successful prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. To curb the spread of AMR, well-equipped laboratories for the early detection of disease-causing pathogens and resistant genes are crucial, something that remains unmet in developing countries due to resource constraints and inadequate infrastructure. This paper presents an affordable and simple nanoparticle-based biosensor for rapidly detecting the bla NDM-1 gene in carbapenemase-producing (CP) bacteria. The biosensor employs thiol-ligand surface functionalized gold nanoparticles (GNPs) conjugated with an oligonucleotide probe specific for detecting the bla NDM-1 gene. The biosensor was evaluated using DNA extracted from CP bacteria having the target bla NDM-1 gene, two non-NDM-1 CP bacteria, and five susceptible bacterial strains. Tuning of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of the GNPs was achieved by reducing the surrounding pH of the GNPs, hence inducing aggregation. With the binding of GNPs-probe-target DNA, the stability of GNPs was enhanced, as confirmed by the retention of the red colour when an optimized amount of 0.1 M HCl was added to induce aggregation. The absence of target DNA was indicated by the aggregation of GNPs after the addition of acid, which resulted in a colour change from red to blue/purple and a shift in the LSPR band to a longer wavelength, averaging 620 nm. The biosensor visual detection results were quantified with absorbance spectra measurements and the results were achieved within 30 minutes. The biosensor successfully detected the target DNA from bla NDM-1 positive bacteria and distinguished the non-targets. The analytical sensitivity achieved was 2.5 ng μL-1 which corresponds to approximately 103 colony-forming units per milliliter. These findings were confirmed through PCR amplification. This nano-biosensor offers an inexpensive, simple, rapid, and sensitive method for detecting the bla NDM-1 gene in carbapenemase producers, and is readily implementable in resource-limited settings.

Neglected class A carbapenemases: Systematic review of IMI/NmcA and FRI from a One Health perspective

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales are pathogens classified as a critical priority by the World Health Organization and a burden on human health worldwide. IMI, NmcA, and FRI are under-detected class A carbapenemases that have been reported in the human, animal and environmental compartments, particularly these last 5 years. Bacteria producing these carbapenemases have been mostly identified in digestive carriage screenings, but they are also involved in severe infections, such as bacteremia. Their increasing detection in wild fauna and natural environments confirms their ubiquitous nature. Indeed, they have been especially found in aquatic ecosystems and in many animals living in close association with them. Therefore, the hydric compartment is suspected to be the main reservoir of IMI carbapenemases. Although they are almost confined to Enterobacter cloacae complex species, some variants are plasmid-encoded and may diffuse to other bacterial species that are more virulent or more adapted to humans. Furthermore, their association with other resistance mechanisms, such as Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamases, leaves only few therapeutic options and raises concerns about the environmental spread of Multi-Drug-Resistant bacteria. These carbapenemase might be responsible of "mixed" outbreaks of CPE with a community origin and a possible secondary nosocomial spread. Therefore, more studies from a One Health perspective are needed to identify as many primary environmental (aquatic) reservoirs as possible, as well as secondary distribution routes (directly from the environment, via the food chain or animals…) which may also become secondary reservoirs for these carbapenemases, in order to implement measures to combat this potential emerging threat to humans. This review summarizes the main characteristics of the IMI, NmcA, and FRI carbapenemases, covering their detection, epidemiology, genetic environment, and associated resistance genes using a One Health approach.

Milk consumers in Pakistan and Italy: a comparative study on the effects of geographical affiliation, socio-demographic characteristics and consumption patterns on knowledge, attitude and perception of antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobials are extensively used in livestock to treat common diseases, including mastitis and other bacterial infections, with around 80% of food-producing animals receiving such treatments. Despite a ban in the EU since 2006, antibiotics are still used globally for growth promotion, exacerbating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). From the consumers' point of view, the potential exposure to resistant zoonotic bacteria in animal-derived food products may represent a threat to public health. However, consumers' knowledge and attitude vary across socio-demographic characteristics and geographical location. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of milk consumers regarding AMR in Pakistan (as a representative of low-to-middle income countries (LMICs)), compared to Italy (as a representative of high-income countries (HICs)).Data were collected via surveys from 401 Pakistani and 550 Italian milk consumers, focusing on socio-demographics, milk purchasing habits, and awareness of antibiotic residues and AMR. The study identified three principal components (PCs) influencing milk consumption: milk quality attributes and tradition, family-dependence, and eating style-dependence. A cluster analysis categorized consumers into four groups: "Attentive to milk quality attributes," "Loyal to milk," "Undecided consumer," and "Milk is essential in my food pattern."Italian consumers predominantly belonged to the "Attentive to milk quality attributes" group, valuing safety and health benefits, and were the most informed about AMR. Pakistani consumers, primarily belonging to the "Loyal to milk" group, exhibited high purchasing frequency influenced by family size but showed limited awareness about AMR risks. The "Undecided consumer" group, a mix of Italian and Pakistani individuals, lacked strong preferences and displayed moderate awareness of AMR, influenced by habitual consumption patterns.This research underscores the need for targeted educational campaigns to raise awareness about AMR and antibiotic residues in milk, particularly in LMICs. Survey findings can help to identify targeted action plans and boost policy development on AMR. Enhancing consumer knowledge through the One-Health approach could mitigate AMR risks and promote informed decision-making in milk consumption across different socio-economic contexts.

An application of COM-b model to explore factors influencing veterinarians' antimicrobial prescription behaviors: Findings from a qualitative study in Bangladesh

The integration of behavioral theories in designing antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions aimed at optimizing the antimicrobial prescription in veterinary practice is highly recommended. However, little is known about the factors that influence veterinarians' antimicrobial behavior for food-producing animals in lower- and middle-income settings like Bangladesh. There is a large body of research on the factors that influence veterinarian behavior of prescribing antimicrobials, however, there is a need for more studies that use comprehensive behavior change models to develop and evaluate interventions. Applying the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation for Behavior (COM-B) model, this qualitative study attempted to address this gap by conducting 32 one-on-one semi-structured interviews with registered veterinarians in Bangladesh. In alignment with COM-B constructs and the theoretical domain framework (TDF), thematic analysis (both inductive and deductive inferences) was performed to analyze the data and identify underlying factors that influence veterinarians' antimicrobial prescription behavior. We found that under "Capability," factors such as knowledge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR); ability to handle complex disease conditions; ability to identify the appropriate antimicrobial type, routes of administration, and potential side effects influence prescription behavior by veterinarians. Under "Opportunity," veterinarians' prescription behavior was influenced by lack of laboratory testing facilities, poor farm biosecurity, farm management and location, farming conditions, impacts of climate change, the clinical history of animals and social influence from different actors including senior figures, peers, farmers, and other informal stakeholders. Under "Motivation," national laws and guidelines serve as catalysts in reducing antimicrobial prescriptions. However, perceived consequences such as fear of treatment failure, losing clients, farmers' reliance on informal service providers, and economic losses demotivate veterinarians from reducing the prescription of antimicrobials. Additionally, veterinarians feel that reducing the burden of AMR is a shared responsibility since many informal stakeholders are involved in the administration and purchase of these medicines. Based on our results, this study recommends incorporating the factors we identified into existing or novel AMS interventions. The behavior change wheel can be used as the guiding principle while designing AMS interventions to increase capability, opportunity and motivation to reduce antimicrobial over-prescription.

Vancomycin resistance and virulence genes evaluation in Enterococci isolated from pork and wild boar meat

Enterococci are considered valuable sentinel Gram-positive bacteria for monitoring vancomycin antibiotic resistance due to their widespread presence and characteristics. The use of antimicrobials in farming animals has a role in the increasing of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and the anthropogenic transformation of the landscape has forced wildlife into greater contact with humans and their livestock. The transmission of resistant bacteria by their meat products is a significant contributor to AMR development. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of vancomycin resistant Enterococci spp. In antimicrobial-treated farmed pigs meat and in antimicrobial-free wild boars meat. A total of 341 Enterococci were isolated from 598 pork meat samples (57 %) and 173 Enterococci were isolated from 404 wild boar meat samples (42.8 %). Data found showed that low-resistance was detected more in wild boars meat Enterococci (52.6 %) than in pork meat once (48.4 %). However, the prevalence of resistance genes was at low level (33.9 % in pork meat Enterococci and 4.4 % in wild boar meat ones) and the only gene found was vanC1/C2, related to intrinsic AMR. Normally, Enterococci persist in the normal intestinal flora of animals including humans. However, the presence of resistance genes was frequently linked to the detection of pathogenic genes, mostly gelE in pork meat isolates and asa1 in wild boars meat isolates. Pathogenic bacteria can cause severe infections in human that can become more risky if associated to the presence of AMR. Pathogenic bacteria were characterized and a high presence of E. gallinarum and E. casseliflavus was found. Given the growing interest in wild game meat consumption the monitoring of AMR in these matrices is essential. Further surveillance studies are needed to fully evaluate the emergence and spread of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) and pathogenic Enterococci from animal-derived food to humans, including the role of wildlife in this phenomenon. Giving the higher interest in wild animals meat consumption, it is important to better evaluate the spread of AMR phenomenon in the future and intensify hygienic control of wild animals derived food.

Integrated surveillance systems for antibiotic resistance in a One Health context: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) has emerged as a major threat to health. Properly informed decisions to mitigate this threat require surveillance systems that integrate information on resistant bacteria and antibiotic use in humans, animals, and the environment, in line with the One Health concept. Despite a strong call for the implementation of such integrated surveillance systems, we still lack a comprehensive overview of existing organizational models for integrated surveillance of ABR. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review to characterize existing integrated surveillance systems for ABR.

METHODS

The literature review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. The selected integrated surveillance systems were assessed according to 39 variables related to their organization and functioning, the socio-economic and political characteristics of their implementation context, and the levels of integration reached, together with their related outcomes. We conducted two distinct, complementary analyses on the data extracted: a descriptive analysis to summarize the characteristics of the integrated surveillance systems, and a multiple-correspondence analysis (MCA) followed by a hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) to identify potential typology for surveillance systems.

RESULTS

The literature search identified a total of 1330 records. After the screening phase, 59 references were kept from which 14 integrated surveillance systems were identified. They all operate in high-income countries and vary in terms of integration, both at informational and structural levels. The different systems combine information from a wide range of populations and commodities -in the human, animal and environmental domains, collection points, drug-bacterium pairs, and rely on various diagnostic and surveillance strategies. A variable level of collaboration was found for the governance and/or operation of the surveillance activities. The outcomes of integration are poorly described and evidenced. The 14 surveillance systems can be grouped into four distinct clusters, characterized by integration level in the two dimensions. The level of resources and regulatory framework in place appeared to play a major role in the establishment and organization of integrated surveillance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that operationalization of integrated surveillance for ABR is still not well established at a global scale, especially in low and middle-income countries and that the surveillance scope is not broad enough to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics of ABR to appropriately inform mitigation measures. Further studies are needed to better characterize the various integration models for surveillance with regard to their implementation context and evaluate the outcome of these models.

Contribution of Food to the Human Health Burden of Antimicrobial Resistance

The impact of foodborne antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on the human health burden of AMR infections is unknown. The aim of this review was to evaluate and summarize the scientific literature investigating all potential sources of human AMR infections related to food. A literature search was conducted in Embase (Ovid) and MEDLINE (Ovid) databases to identify appropriate studies published between 2010 and 2023. The results of the search were reviewed and categorized based on the primary subject matter. Key concepts from each category are described from the perspective of food safety as a public health objective. The search yielded 3457 references, 1921 remained after removal of duplicates, abstracts, editorials, comments, notes, retractions, and errata. No properly designed source attribution studies were identified, but 383 journal articles were considered relevant and were classified into eight subcategories and discussed in the context of four streams of evidence: prevalence data, epidemiological studies, outbreak investigations and human health impact estimates. There was sufficient evidence to conclude that AMR genes, whether present in pathogenic or nonpathogenic bacteria, constitute a foodborne hazard. The level of consumer risk owing to this hazard cannot be accurately estimated based on the data summarized here. Key gaps in the literature are noted.

Potential Causes of Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance and Preventive Measures in One Health Perspective-A Review

Antimicrobial resistance, referring to microorganisms' capability to subsist and proliferate even when there are antimicrobials is a foremost threat to public health globally. The appearance of antimicrobial resistance can be ascribed to anthropological, animal, and environmental factors. Human-related causes include antimicrobial overuse and misuse in medicine, antibiotic-containing cosmetics and biocides utilization, and inadequate sanitation and hygiene in public settings. Prophylactic and therapeutic antimicrobial misuse and overuse, using antimicrobials as feed additives, microbes resistant to antibiotics and resistance genes in animal excreta, and antimicrobial residue found in animal-origin food and excreta are animals related contributive factors for the antibiotic resistance emergence and spread. Environmental factors including naturally existing resistance genes, improper disposal of unused antimicrobials, contamination from waste in public settings, animal farms, and pharmaceutical industries, and the use of agricultural and sanitation chemicals facilitatet its emergence and spread. Wildlife has a plausible role in the antimicrobial resistance spread. Adopting a one-health approach involving using antimicrobials properly in animals and humans, improving sanitation in public spaces and farms, and implementing coordinated governmental regulations is crucial for combating antimicrobial resistance. Collaborative and cooperative involvement of stakeholders in public, veterinary and ecological health sectors is foremost to circumvent the problem effectively.

Transmission of β-lactamases in the pork food chain: A public health concern

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a risk for public health that requires management in a One Health perspective, including humans, animals, and the environment. The food production chain has been identified as a possible route of transmission of AMR bacteria to humans. The most critical issue regards resistance to the Critically Important Antimicrobials (CIAs), such as β-lactams antibiotics. Here, pigs were analysed along the entire food producing chain, including feces, carcasses and pork products (fresh meat, fermented and seasoned products) ensuring treaciability of all samples. Escherichia coli were isolated and their ability to produce ESBL and AmpC β-lactamases was evaluated both phenotypically and genotypically. Strains with the same AMR profile from feces, carcasses, and meat products were selected for phylogenetic and comparative genomic analyses to evaluate the possible "farm-to-fork" transmission of β-lactams resistant bacteria. Results showed that the percentage of ESBL strains in fecal E. coli was approximately 7% and increased slightly in the pork food chain: the 10% of ESBL E. coli isolated from carcasses and the 12.5% of isolates from fresh meat products. AmpC E. coli were found only in feces, carcasses, and fresh meat with a low prevalence. Results showed that of the 243 pigs followed along the entire food chain genetic similarities in E. coli isolated from farm-to-fork were found in only one pig (feces, carcasses and fresh meat). Frequent similarities were shown in resistant E. coli isolates from carcasses and fresh meat or fermented product (three pork food chain). Moreover, in one case, bacteria isolated from fresh meat and fermented product were genotypically similar. Concluding, direct transmission of β-lactams resistance from farm-to-fork is possible but not frequent. Further studies are needed to improve risk communication to consumers and access to clear and reliable information and health concerns on food.

Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria from Meat and Meat Products: A One Health Perspective

According to the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations, one of the sustainable development goals is to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. The need to ensure food safety includes, other than microbiological hazards, concerns with antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria. The emergence of resistant bacteria in the food industry is essentially due to the abusive, and sometimes incorrect, administration of antimicrobials. Although not allowed in Europe, antimicrobials are often administered to promote animal growth. Each time antimicrobials are used, a selective pressure is applied to AMR bacteria. Moreover, AMR genes can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of meat-harbouring-resistant bacteria, which highlights the One Health dimension of antimicrobial resistance. Furthermore, the appropriate use of antimicrobials to ensure efficacy and the best possible outcome for the treatment of infections is regulated through the recommendations of antimicrobial stewardship. The present manuscript aims to give the current state of the art about the transmission of AMR bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus, ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus spp., along with other ESKAPE bacteria, from animals to humans through the consumption of meat and meat products, with emphasis on pork meat and pork meat products, which are considered the most consumed worldwide.

Toward One Health: a spatial indicator system to model the facilitation of the spread of zoonotic diseases

Recurrent outbreaks of zoonotic infectious diseases highlight the importance of considering the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health in disease prevention and control. This has given rise to the concept of One Health, which recognizes the interconnectedness of between human and animal health within their ecosystems. As a contribution to the One Health approach, this study aims to develop an indicator system to model the facilitation of the spread of zoonotic diseases. Initially, a literature review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement to identify relevant indicators related to One Health. The selected indicators focused on demographics, socioeconomic aspects, interactions between animal and human populations and water bodies, as well as environmental conditions related to air quality and climate. These indicators were characterized using values obtained from the literature or calculated through distance analysis, geoprocessing tasks, and other methods. Subsequently, Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques, specifically the Entropy and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) methods, were utilized to combine the indicators and create a composite metric for assessing the spread of zoonotic diseases. The final indicators selected were then tested against recorded zoonoses in the Valencian Community (Spain) for 2021, and a strong positive correlation was identified. Therefore, the proposed indicator system can be valuable in guiding the development of planning strategies that align with the One Health principles. Based on the results achieved, such strategies may prioritize the preservation of natural landscape features to mitigate habitat encroachment, protect land and water resources, and attenuate extreme atmospheric conditions.

Factors associated with antimicrobial resistant enterococci in Canadian beef cattle: A scoping review

Introduction

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health concern, occurring when bacteria evolve to render antimicrobials no longer effective. Antimicrobials have important roles in beef production; however, the potential to introduce AMR to people through beef products is a concern. This scoping review identifies factors associated with changes in the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant Enterococcus spp. applicable to the Canadian farm-to-fork beef continuum.

Methods

Five databases (MEDLINE, BIOSIS, Web of Science, Embase, and CAB Abstracts) were searched for articles published from January 1984 to March 2022, using a priori inclusion criteria. Peer-reviewed articles were included if they met all the following criteria: written in English, applicable to the Canadian beef production context, primary research, in vivo research, describing an intervention or exposure, and specific to Enterococcus spp.

Results

Out of 804 screened articles, 26 were selected for inclusion. The included articles discussed 37 factors potentially associated with AMR in enterococci, with multiple articles discussing at least two of the same factors. Factors discussed included antimicrobial administration (n = 16), raised without antimicrobials (n = 6), metal supplementation (n = 4), probiotics supplementation (n = 3), pen environment (n = 2), essential oil supplementation (n = 1), grass feeding (n = 1), therapeutic versus subtherapeutic antimicrobial use (n = 1), feeding wet distiller grains with solubles (n = 1), nutritional supplementation (n = 1) and processing plant type (n = 1). Results were included irrespective of their quality of evidence.

Discussion

Comparability issues arising throughout the review process were related to data aggregation, hierarchical structures, study design, and inconsistent data reporting. Findings from articles were often temporally specific in that resistance was associated with AMR outcomes at sampling times closer to exposure compared to studies that sampled at longer intervals after exposure. Resistance was often nuanced to unique gene and phenotypic resistance patterns that varied with species of enterococci. Intrinsic resistance and interpretation of minimum inhibitory concentration varied greatly among enterococcal species, highlighting the importance of caution when comparing articles and generalizing findings.

Systematic Review Registration

[http://hdl.handle.net/1880/113592].

The role of food chain in antimicrobial resistance spread and One Health approach to reduce risks

The incidence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rapidly spreading worldwide. It is depleting the repertoire of antibiotics in use but the pace of development of new antibiotics is stagnant for decades. Annually, millions of people are killed by AMR. This alarming situation urged both scientific and civil bodies to take steps to curb AMR as a top priority. Here we review the various sources of AMR in the environment, especially focusing on the food chain. Food chain inculcates pathogens with AMR genes and serves as a conduit for its transmission. In certain countries, the antibiotics are more used in livestock than in humans. It is also used in agriculture crops of high value products. The indiscriminate use of antibiotics in livestock and agriculture increased rapid emergence of AMR pathogens. In addition, in many countries nosocomial settings are spewing AMR pathogens, which is a serious health hazard. Both the developed and low and middle income countries (LMIC) face the phenomenon of AMR. Therefore, a comprehensive approach for monitoring all sectors of life is required to identify the emerging trend of AMR in environment. AMR genes' mode of action must be understood to develop strategies to reduce risk. The new generation sequencing technologies, metagenomics and bioinformatics capabilities can be resorted to quickly identify and characterize AMR genes. The sampling for AMR monitoring can be done from multiples nodes of the food chain as envisioned and promoted by the WHO, FAO, OIE and UNEP under the One Health approach to overcome threat of AMR pathogens.

Exploring veterinarians' behaviour relating to antibiotic use stewardship on Irish dairy farms using the COM-B model of behaviour change

Employing a theoretical model of human behaviour (COMB), the current study explores the factors influencing veterinarians' engagement with antibiotic use stewardship on Irish dairy farms. One-to-one semi structured interviews were carried out by telephone with 12 veterinarians whose daily work focused on dairy cattle. A thematic analysis approach was undertaken. The identified themes and sub-themes were then mapped to the COM-B model. This study identified challenges faced by veterinarians when trying to prescribe responsibly which included lack of training to encourage farmer behaviour change, issues with laboratory testing, pressures from farmers to prescribe antimicrobials, concern for animal welfare and farmers going elsewhere for prescriptions. Having a good knowledge of AMR, peers as an advice source, potential financial benefits for farmers as a result of reduced antimicrobial costs and accepting a shared responsibility for AMR, facilitate veterinarians in their role as antimicrobial stewards. The barriers and facilitators identified as influencing veterinarians' capability, opportunity and motivation to responsibly prescribe antimicrobials formed the basis for a number of practical recommendations which should be considered by advisory and policy making teams. Recommendations include; continuous training for veterinarians on AMR and alternatives to overcome the barriers faced when trying to promote reduced AMU, veterinarian peer support groups to improve confidence in their knowledge and decision making to minimise the effect of client pressures/expectations, setting up collaborative farmer and veterinarian working groups to promote a transparent working relationship and the development of affordable and efficient diagnostic and susceptibility testing.

Novel Plasmid Carrying Mobile Colistin Resistance Gene mcr-4.3 and Mercury Resistance Genes in Shewanella baltica: Insights into Mobilization of mcr-4.3 in Shewanella Species

Shewanella species have been identified as progenitors of several clinically important antibiotic resistance genes. The aim of our study was to analyze Shewanella baltica strains isolated from the gut contents of wild Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) for the presence of both known and novel variants of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), using Illumina-based whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Thirty-three S. baltica strains were isolated from Atlantic mackerel collected in the northern North Sea. WGS revealed the presence of several new variants of class C and class D beta-lactamases. Nearly 42% (14/33) of the strains carried the mobile colistin resistance gene mcr-4.3. To understand the genetic context of mcr-4.3, we determined the complete genome sequence of strain 11FHM2, using a combination of Oxford Nanopore- and Illumina-based sequencing. The complete genome sequence is 5,406,724 bp long, with one contig representing a chromosome of 5,068,880 bp and three contigs representing novel plasmids (pSBP1, 194,145 bp; pSBP2_mcr4, 86,727 bp; and pSBP3, 56,972 bp). Plasmid pSBP2_mcr4 contains the mobile colistin resistance gene mcr-4.3, as well as the mercury resistance operon merRPAT. Plasmid pSBP1 carries genes encoding resistance against copper, zinc, chromium, and arsenic. Plasmid pSBP3 does not carry any antibiotic or heavy metal resistance genes. Analysis of the flanking region of mcr-4.3 suggests that a phage integrase may be involved in the mobilization of mcr-4.3 in Shewanella spp. Our results provide insights into the mobile mcr-4.3 present in Shewanella spp. and highlight the importance of the marine environment in the emergence and dissemination of clinically important resistance genes. IMPORTANCE We identified two new plasmids in Shewanella baltica isolated from wild Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) collected from the northern North Sea, one plasmid carrying the mcr-4.3 gene for colistin resistance and the operon merRPAT for mercury resistance and the other carrying multiple heavy metal resistance genes. The marine environment has been recognized as a source of new resistance genes that are found in human pathogens. Selection pressure from heavy metals is seen in the marine environment, especially associated with human activities, such as waste discharge, mining, and in aquaculture settings. This would help maintain and disseminate these plasmids in the environment. Our study provides insights into the mobilization of colistin resistance genes in Shewanella spp. and highlights the importance of the marine environment in the emergence and dissemination of clinically important antibiotic resistance genes.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on antimicrobial resistance in marine bivalves

Bivalves are filter-feeding animals able to accumulate contaminants and microorganisms, either of marine or terrestrial origin. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacterial isolates from bivalves using a systematic review of the literature. Comprehensive searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science were carried out, based upon a registered protocol (PROSPERO), and following the preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using a modified Hoy checklist. Meta-analyses of prevalence were carried out using random-effects models. In total, 103 articles were selected from 1,280 records and were included in the final analysis. The studies were from Asia (n = 54), Europe (n = 27), South and North America (n = 10 and n = 6, respectively), Africa (n = 2), Oceania (n = 1), and multicentre and intercontinental (n = 3). The meta-analysis of multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index revealed Aeromonas spp. as the genus with the highest prevalence of AMR (37%), followed by Vibrio spp. (34%), Salmonella spp. (18%), and Escherichia coli (15%). Resistance to third/fourth/fifth generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones, two highest priority, critically important antimicrobials (HPCIA), was recorded in approximately 10% of E. coli isolates. Resistance to carbapenems was very low (<2%) in Salmonella spp. and in E. coli, but was found in 5% of Vibrio spp. and in more than a third of Aeromonas spp. isolates. In aquatic bacteria, resistance to carbapenems was higher in Asian than in European isolates. Our study shows the presence of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB), including bacteria resistant to HPCIA, in marine bivalves, posing a risk for consumers.

A review of food additives to control the proliferation and transmission of pathogenic microorganisms with emphasis on applications to raw meat-based diets for companion animals

Raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) or sometimes described as biologically appropriate raw food (BARFs) are gaining in popularity amongst dog and cat owners. These pet guardians prefer their animals to eat minimally processed and more "natural" foods instead of highly heat-processed diets manufactured with synthetic preservatives. The market for RMBDs for dogs and cats is estimated at $33 million in the United States. This figure is likely underestimated because some pet owners feed their animals raw diets prepared at home. Despite their increasing demand, RMBDs have been plagued with numerous recalls because of contamination from foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter. Existing literature regarding mitigation strategies in RMBD's for dogs/cats are very limited. Thus, a comprehensive search for published research was conducted regarding technologies used in meat and poultry processing and raw materials tangential to this trade (e.g., meats and poultry). In this review paper, we explored multiple non-thermal processes and GRAS approved food additives that can be used as potential antimicrobials alone or in combinations to assert multiple stressors that impede microbial growth, ultimately leading to pathogen inactivation through hurdle technology. This review focuses on use of high-pressure pasteurization, organic acidulants, essential oils, and bacteriophages as possible approaches to commercially pasteurize RMBDs effectively at a relatively low cost. A summary of the different ways these technologies have been used in the past to control foodborne pathogens in meat and poultry related products and how they can be applied successfully to impede growth of enteric pathogens in commercially produced raw diets for companion animals is provided.

A Meta-Analysis to Estimate Prevalence of Resistance to Tetracyclines and Third Generation Cephalosporins in Enterobacteriaceae Isolated from Food Crops

Application of human and animal waste to fields and water sources and on-farm antimicrobial usage are documented contributors to the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in agricultural domains. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of resistance to tetracycline (TET) and third generation cephalosporins (3GC) in Enterobacteriaceae isolated from food crops. TET was selected in view of its wide use in agriculture, whereas 3GC were selected because of the public health concerns of reported resistance to these critically important antibiotics in the environment. Forty-two studies from all six world regions published between 2010 and 2022 met the eligibility criteria. A random effects model estimated that 4.63% (95% CI: 2.57%, 7.18%; p-value: <0.0001) and 3.75% (95%CI: 2.13%, 5.74%; p-value: <0.0001) of surveyed food crops harboured Enterobacteriaceae resistant to TET and 3GC, respectively. No significant differences were observed between pre- and post-harvest stages of the value chain. 3GC resistance prevalence estimates in food crops were highest for the African region (6.59%; 95% CI: 2.41%, 12.40%; p-value: <0.0001) and lowest for Europe (1.84%; 95% CI: 0.00%, 6.02%; p-value: <0.0001). Considering the rare use of 3GC in agriculture, these results support its inclusion for AMR surveillance in food crops. Integrating food crops into One Health AMR surveillance using harmonized sampling methods could confirm trends highlighted here.

Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance in Select Bacteria From Retail Seafood-United States, 2019

In 2019, the United States National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) surveyed raw salmon, shrimp, and tilapia from retail grocery outlets in eight states to assess the prevalence of bacterial contamination and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the isolates. Prevalence of the targeted bacterial genera ranged among the commodities: Salmonella (0%-0.4%), Aeromonas (19%-26%), Vibrio (7%-43%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.8%-2.3%), Staphylococcus (23%-30%), and Enterococcus (39%-66%). Shrimp had the highest odds (OR: 2.8, CI: 2.0-3.9) of being contaminated with at least one species of these bacteria, as were seafood sourced from Asia vs. North America (OR: 2.7; CI: 1.8-4.7) and Latin America and the Caribbean vs. North America (OR: 1.6; CI: 1.1-2.3) and seafood sold at the counter vs. sold frozen (OR: 2.1; CI: 1.6-2.9). Isolates exhibited pan-susceptibility (Salmonella and P. aeruginosa) or low prevalence of resistance (<10%) to most antimicrobials tested, with few exceptions. Seafood marketed as farm-raised had lower odds of contamination with antimicrobial resistant bacteria compared to wild-caught seafood (OR: 0.4, CI: 0.2-0.7). Antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) were detected for various classes of medically important antimicrobials. Clinically relevant ARGs included carbapenemases (bla IMI-2, bla NDM-1) and extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs; bla CTX-M-55). This population-scale study of AMR in seafood sold in the United States provided the basis for NARMS seafood monitoring, which began in 2020.

Qualitative Risk Assessment for Antimicrobial Resistance among Humans from Salmon Fillet Consumption Due to the High Use of Antibiotics against Bacterial Infections in Farmed Salmon

Background: Worldwide, aquaculture is considered as a hotspot environment for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to the intense use of antibiotics in its productive systems. Chile is the second largest producer of farmed salmon worldwide, and tons of antibiotics are used to control bacterial diseases, such as Salmon Rickettsial Syndrome (SRS) and Bacterial Kidney Disease (BKD). However, studies determining the risk of consuming salmon fillets that have been treated with antibiotics during the salmon production are limited. Consulting leading experts in the field could provide a knowledge base to identify and address this question and research gaps. Methods: Multisectoral risk perception of AMR through salmon fillet consumption was evaluated by eliciting expert data obtained through discussions during a workshop and from questionnaires given to experts from academia (n = 15, 63%), the public sector (n = 5, 21%), and the salmon industry (n = 4, 17%). Results: The qualitative risk analysis suggested an overall ‘low’ probability of AMR acquisition by consumption of salmon fillet that had been treated during the production cycle. The risk perception varied slightly between production stages in freshwater and seawater. In consensus with all sectors, this overall ‘low’, but existing, risk was probably associated with bacterial infections and the use of antibiotics. Conclusions: As it is essential to reduce the use of antibiotics in the Chilean salmon industry, this intersectoral approach and consensual results could favor effective implementation of targeted initiatives for the control and prevention of major bacterial diseases.

Dissemination of Resistant Escherichia coli Among Wild Birds, Rodents, Flies, and Calves on Dairy Farms

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria in the livestock is a growing problem, partly due to inappropriate use of antimicrobial drugs. Antimicrobial use (AMU) occurs in Swedish dairy farming but is restricted to the treatment of sick animals based on prescription by a veterinary practitioner. Despite these strict rules, calves shedding antimicrobial resistant Enterobacteriaceae have been recorded both in dairy farms and in slaughterhouses. Yet, not much is known how these bacteria disseminate into the local environment around dairy farms. In this study, we collected samples from four animal sources (fecal samples from calves, birds and rodents, and whole flies) and two environmental sources (cow manure drains and manure pits). From the samples, Escherichia coli was isolated and antimicrobial susceptibility testing performed. A subset of isolates was whole genome sequenced to evaluate relatedness between sources and genomic determinants such as antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and the presence of plasmids were assessed. We detected both ARGs, mobile genetic elements and low rates of AMR. In particular, we observed four potential instances of bacterial clonal sharing in two different animal sources. This demonstrates resistant E. coli dissemination potential within the dairy farm, between calves and scavenger animals (rodents and flies). AMR dissemination and the zoonotic AMR risk is generally low in countries with low and restricted AMU. However, we show that interspecies dissemination does occur, and in countries that have little to no AMU restrictions this risk could be under-estimated.

Antimicrobial resistance: One Health approach

In this research, a review of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is conducted as part of the One Health approach. A review of publications, which included “antimicrobial resistance” and “One Health,” was conducted. Among the global health problems, AMR is the one that most clearly illustrates the One Health approach. AMR is a critical global problem affecting humans, the environment, and animals. This is related to each of these three components due to the irresponsible and excessive use of antimicrobials in various sectors (agriculture, livestock, and human medicine). Improper management of antimicrobials, inadequate control of infections, agricultural debris, pollutants in the environment, and migration of people and animals infected with resistant bacteria facilitate the spread of resistance. The study aimed to analyze the problem of AMR from a health perspective to analyze the different actors involved in One Health.

Development of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli in some Egyptian veterinary farms

Background and Aim: Food of animal origin is considered a major source of foodborne diseases. In this context, multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli pose a serious hazard to public health due to the consumption of food contaminated with antibiotics that are used for the treatment of various bacterial infections in farm animals. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of the excessive use of antibiotics on the development of MDR E. coli strains in Egyptian poultry, dairy, and meat farms. Materials and Methods: A total of 1225 samples were randomly collected from poultry, dairy, and meat products intended for human consumption in different governorates. E. coli were isolated from the collected samples and subjected to biochemical identification and antibiotic sensitivity tests with antibiotics commonly used in human and veterinary medicine. Then, amoxicillin (AML)- and oxytetracycline (OT)-resistant E. coli isolates were subjected to a polymerase chain reaction test to detect the blaTEM and tetA genes, respectively. Results: E. coli were isolated from 132 out of 350, 148 out of 350, 177 out of 350, and 35 out of 175 poultry, milk, meat, and human samples, respectively. Most of the isolates expressed multidrug resistance, and resistance genes (blaTEM and tetA) were detected in all the tested AML- and OT-resistant E. coli isolates. Conclusion: Foods of animal origin may represent a source of MDR E. coli, which can be a major threat to public health.

Characteristics and Global Occurrence of Human Pathogens Harboring Antimicrobial Resistance in Food Crops: A Scoping Review

Background

The role of the crop environment as a conduit for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through soil, water, and plants has received less attention than other sectors. Food crops may provide a link between the agro-environmental reservoir of AMR and acquisition by humans, adding to existing food safety hazards associated with microbial contamination of food crops.

Objectives

The objectives of this review were: (1) to use a systematic methodology to characterize AMR in food crop value chains globally, and (2) to identify knowledge gaps in understanding exposure risks to humans.

Methods

Four bibliographic databases were searched using synonyms of AMR in food crop value chains. Following two-stage screening, phenotypic results were extracted and categorized into primary and secondary combinations of acquired resistance in microbes of concern based on established prioritization. Occurrence of these pathogen-AMR phenotype combinations were summarized by sample group, value chain stage, and world region. Sub-analyses on antimicrobial resistance genes (ARG) focused on extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and tetracycline resistance genes.

Results

Screening of 4,455 citations yielded 196 studies originating from 49 countries, predominantly in Asia (89 studies) and Africa (38). Observations of pathogen-phenotype combinations of interest were reported in a subset of 133 studies (68%). Primary combinations, which include resistance to antimicrobials of critical importance to human medicine varied from 3% (carbapenem resistance) to 13% (fluoroquinolones), whereas secondary combinations, which include resistance to antimicrobials also used in agriculture ranged from 14% (aminoglycoside resistance) to 20% (aminopenicillins). Salad crops, vegetables, and culinary herbs were the most sampled crops with almost twice as many studies testing post-harvest samples. Sub-analysis of ARG found similar patterns corresponding to phenotypic results.

Discussion

These results suggest that acquired AMR in opportunistic and obligate human pathogens is disseminated throughout food crop value chains in multiple world regions. However, few longitudinal studies exist and substantial heterogeneity in sampling methods currently limit quantification of exposure risks to consumers. This review highlights the need to include agriculturally-derived AMR in monitoring food safety risks from plant-based foods, and the challenges facing its surveillance.

Tailoring Can Improve Consumers’ Hygienic Food-Handling Behavior to Reduce the Transmission Risk of Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria through Food

Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria spread via food to humans and can seriously impair infection treatment. Hygienic food handling is an effective measure to avoid the transmission of bacteria. Therefore, we tested three types of interventions (tailored, generic, and no intervention) for their effectiveness in improving consumers’ hygienic food handling against the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria through foods in a longitudinal randomized control trial. We based the determinants of hygienic food-handling behavior on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA). The tailored intervention raised self-reported hygienic food handling, self-efficacy, and perceived likelihood of risk compared to no intervention. Moreover, interventions yielded different effects for participants with high vs. low intentions to improve their food-handling behavior. However, there were no differences between the tailored and generic interventions. More research is needed to find out whether including other behavior change techniques in the tailored intervention may increase the effect of tailoring.

Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from Two Commercial Lettuce and Spinach Supply Chains

ABSTRACT

Leafy green vegetables have increasingly been reported as a reservoir of multidrug-resistant pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae, with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli frequently implicated in disease outbreaks worldwide. This study examined the presence and characteristics of antibiotic resistance, diarrheagenic virulence genes, and phylogenetic groupings of E. coli isolates (n = 51) from commercially produced lettuce and spinach from farms, through processing, and at the point of sale. Multidrug resistance was observed in 33 (64.7%) of the 51 E. coli isolates, with 35.7% (10 of 28) being generic and 100% (23 of 23) being extended-spectrum β-lactamase/AmpC producing. Resistance of E. coli isolates was observed against neomycin (51 of 51, 100%), ampicillin (36 of 51, 70.6%), amoxicillin (35 of 51, 68.6%), tetracycline (23 of 51, 45%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (22 of 51, 43%), chloramphenicol (13 of 51, 25.5%), Augmentin (6 of 51, 11.8%), and gentamicin (4 of 51, 7.8%), with 100% (51 of 51) susceptibility to imipenem. Virulence gene eae was detected in two E. coli isolates from irrigation water sources only, whereas none of the other virulence genes for which we tested were detected. Most of the E. coli strains belonged to phylogenetic group B2 (25.5%; n = 13), B1 (19.6%; n = 10), and A (17.6%; n = 9), with D (5.9%; n = 3) less distributed. Although diarrheagenic E. coli was not detected, antibiotic resistance in E. coli prevalent in the supply chain was evident. In addition, a clear link between E. coli isolates from irrigation water sources and leafy green vegetables through DNA fingerprinting was established, indicating the potential transfer of E. coli from irrigation water to minimally processed leafy green vegetables.

HIGHLIGHTS

Antimicrobial use in agriculture: critical review of the factors influencing behaviour

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health emergency affecting humans and animals, diminishing the effectiveness of medication used to treat illness. The agri-food sector has attracted increased attention for imprudent antimicrobial use (AMU) and its contribution to AMR. Thus, ascertaining farmers' and veterinarians' behaviours surrounding AMU is essential to address imprudent AMU and generate behaviour change within the agri-food sector. Therefore, the aim of this critical review is to investigate, assess and collate the current body of evidence to identify psychosocial factors including knowledge, understanding, perceptions, attitudes and behaviours surrounding AMU. Database searches were limited to articles utilizing qualitative and quantitative methodologies, available in English with no restriction on publication year. Of the 1156 articles identified, 103 were retained for this review. Findings on the psychosocial aspects were thematically analysed. Five key themes emerged from the data: (i) knowledge and awareness of antimicrobials; (ii) attitudes towards antimicrobials; (iii) influential relationships; (iv) resources; and (v) factors influencing AMU. Results indicated that to overcome barriers experienced by key stakeholders, a carefully considered, evidence-based approach, incorporating behaviour change theory, is required when designing intricate interventions/strategies, in order to elicit successful and sustained AMU behaviour change.

Biological Effects of Quinolones: A Family of Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Agents

Broad antibacterial spectrum, high oral bioavailability and excellent tissue penetration combined with safety and few, yet rare, unwanted effects, have made the quinolones class of antimicrobials one of the most used in inpatients and outpatients. Initially discovered during the search for improved chloroquine-derivative molecules with increased anti-malarial activity, today the quinolones, intended as antimicrobials, comprehend four generations that progressively have been extending antimicrobial spectrum and clinical use. The quinolone class of antimicrobials exerts its antimicrobial actions through inhibiting DNA gyrase and Topoisomerase IV that in turn inhibits synthesis of DNA and RNA. Good distribution through different tissues and organs to treat Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria have made quinolones a good choice to treat disease in both humans and animals. The extensive use of quinolones, in both human health and in the veterinary field, has induced a rise of resistance and menace with leaving the quinolones family ineffective to treat infections. This review revises the evolution of quinolones structures, biological activity, and the clinical importance of this evolving family. Next, updated information regarding the mechanism of antimicrobial activity is revised. The veterinary use of quinolones in animal productions is also considered for its environmental role in spreading resistance. Finally, considerations for the use of quinolones in human and veterinary medicine are discussed.

The Population Genetics, Virulence, and Public Health Concerns of Escherichia coli Collected From Rats Within an Urban Environment

The co-existence of rats and humans in urban environments has long been a cause for concern regarding human health because of the potential for rats to harbor and transmit disease-causing pathogens. Here, we analyze whole-genome sequence (WGS) data from 41 Escherichia coli isolates collected from rat feces from 12 locations within the city of Chicago, IL, United States to determine the potential for rats to serve as a reservoir for pathogenic E. coli and describe its population structure. We identified 25 different serotypes, none of which were isolated from strains containing significant virulence markers indicating the presence of Shiga toxin-producing and other disease-causing E. coli. Nor did the E. coli isolates harbor any particularly rare stress tolerant or antimicrobial resistance genes. We then compared the isolates against a public database of approximately 100,000 E. coli and Shigella isolates of primarily food, food facility, or clinical origin. We found that only one isolate was genetically similar to genome sequences in the database. Phylogenetic analyses showed that isolates cluster by serotype, and there was little geographic structure (e.g., isolation by distance) among isolates. However, a greater signal of isolation by distance was observed when we compared genetic and geographic distances among isolates of the same serotype. This suggests that E. coli serotypes are independent lineages and recombination between serotypes is rare.

Potential Influence of Regulation of the Food Value Chain on Prevalence and Patterns of Antimicrobial Resistance: the Case of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

The current study was designed to evaluate the potential impact of the level of regulation on the prevalence and patterns of antimicrobial agent resistance in bacteria isolated from fish. The study sites included two large lakes and both semiregulated and unregulated fish value chains. A total of 328 bacterial isolates belonging to 11 genera were evaluated for antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the disk diffusion method. The bacterial species were tested against 12 different antibiotics (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline, ampicillin, cefotaxime, chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid, amoxicillin, meropenem, ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin, cefuroxime, and kanamycin). Data analysis was done to assess the heterogeneity in proportion of resistant bacterial species within and between the two value chains using a random-effects model proposed by DerSimonian and Laird (Control Clin Trials 7:177-188, 1986). Statistical heterogeneity within and between groups was estimated using the Cochran chi-square test and the Cochrane I² index. The overall proportion of bacterial species resistant to antimicrobial agents in semiregulated and unregulated value chains ranged from 0.00 to 0.88 and 0.09 to 0.95, respectively. Shigella spp. had the highest proportion of bacteria that were resistant to most of the antimicrobial agents used. The bacterial species were highly resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin, and the highest multidrug resistance capacity was observed in Shigella spp. (18.3%, n = 328), Vibrio spp. (18.3%), and Listeria monocytogenes (12.2%). We observed strong heterogeneity within and between the two value chains regarding proportion of resistant bacterial species. Sun-dried fish in both value chains had significantly high proportions of resistant bacterial species. Comparing the two value chains, the unregulated value chain had a significantly higher proportion of bacterial species that were resistant. In order to mitigate the risk of transmitting antimicrobial-resistant bacteria to consumers along the fish value chain, good manufacturing practices coupled with identification and management of possible sources of contamination are recommended for fish and potentially other foods distributed along the less regulated value chains. IMPORTANCE In order to mitigate the risk of transmitting antimicrobial-resistant bacteria to consumers along the fish value chain, good manufacturing practices coupled with identification and management of possible sources of contamination are recommended for fish and potentially other foods distributed along the less regulated value chains.

Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles in Non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica Strains Isolated From Cambodian Informal Markets

Non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica is a pathogen of global importance, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). The presence of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) strains in market environments poses a serious health threat to consumers. In this study we identified and characterized the genotypic and phenotypic AMR profiles of 81 environmental S. enterica strains isolated from samples from informal markets in Cambodia in 2018–2019. AMR genotypes were retrieved from the NCBI Pathogen Detection website (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pathogens/) and using ResFinder (https://cge.cbs.dtu.dk/services/) Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs) were identified with SPIFinder (https://cge.cbs.dtu.dk/services/). Susceptibility testing was performed by broth microdilution according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standard guidelines M100-S22 using the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) Sensititre Gram Negative plate. A total of 17 unique AMR genes were detected in 53% (43/81) of the isolates, including those encoding tetracycline, beta-lactam, sulfonamide, quinolone, aminoglycoside, phenicol, and trimethoprim resistance. A total of 10 SPIs (SPI-1, 3–5, 8, 9, 12–14, and centisome 63 [C63PI]) were detected in 59 isolates. C63PI, an iron transport system in SPI-1, was observed in 56% of the isolates (n = 46). SPI-1, SPI-4, and SPI-9 were present in 13, 2, and 5% of the isolates, respectively. The most common phenotypic resistances were observed to tetracycline (47%; n = 38), ampicillin (37%; n = 30), streptomycin (20%; n = 16), chloramphenicol (17%; n = 14), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (16%; n = 13). This study contributes to understanding the AMR genes present in S. enterica isolates from informal markets in Cambodia, as well as support domestic epidemiological investigations of multidrug resistance (MDR) profiles.

A One-Health Quantitative Model to Assess the Risk of Antibiotic Resistance Acquisition in Asian Populations: Impact of Exposure Through Food, Water, Livestock and Humans

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a major threat worldwide, especially in countries with inadequate sanitation and low antibiotic regulation. However, adequately prioritizing AMR interventions in such settings requires a quantification of the relative impacts of environmental, animal, and human sources in a One-Health perspective. Here, we propose a stochastic quantitative risk assessment model for the different components at interplay in AMR selection and spread. The model computes the incidence of AMR colonization in humans from five different sources: water or food consumption, contacts with livestock, and interhuman contacts in hospitals or the community, and combines these incidences into a per-year acquisition risk. Using data from the literature and Monte-Carlo simulations, we apply the model to hypothetical Asian-like settings, focusing on resistant bacteria that may cause infections in humans. In both scenarios A, illustrative of low-income countries, and B, illustrative of high-income countries, the overall individual risk of becoming colonized with resistant bacteria at least once per year is high. However, the average predicted incidence of colonization was lower in scenario B at 0.82 (CrI [0.13, 5.1]) acquisitions/person/year, versus 1.69 (CrI [0.66, 11.13]) acquisitions/person/year for scenario A. A high percentage of population with no access to improved water on premises and a high percentage of population involved in husbandry are shown to strongly increase the AMR acquisition risk. The One-Health AMR risk assessment framework we developed may prove useful to policymakers throughout Asia, as it can easily be parameterized to realistically reproduce conditions in a given country, provided data are available.

Application of Nanopore Sequencing (MinION) for the Analysis of Bacteriome and Resistome of Bean Sprouts

The aspiration these days is to apply rapid methods for parallel analysis of bacteriome and resistome of food samples to increase food safety and prevent antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) spreading. In this work, we used nanopore sequencing (NS) to determine the diversity and dynamics of the microbiome and resistome in two types of bean sprouts. We proved that NS provided an easy, quick, and reliable way to identify the microbiome and resistome of a food sample also. The species diversity obtained by NS and by cultivation methods with MALDI-TOF MS identification was comparable. In both samples, before and after cultivation (30 °C, 48 h), the dominant part of bacteriome formed Gammaproteobacteria (Enterobacteriaceae, Erwiniaceae, Pseudomonadaceae, Moraxellaceae) and then Firmicutes (Streptococcaceae). The diversity and abundance of single ARGs groups were comparable for both samples despite bacteriome differences. More than 50% of the detected ARGs alignments were mutations conferring resistance to aminoglycosides (16S rRNA), resistance to fluoroquinolones (gyrA, gyrB, parC, parD) and elfamycin (EF-Tu). ARGs encoding efflux pumps formed more than 30% of the detected alignments. Beta-lactamases were represented by many variants, but were less abundant.

The Cantaloupe Farm Environment Has a Diverse Genetic Pool of Antibiotic-Resistance and Virulence Genes

Cantaloupes contaminated with pathogens have led to many high-profile outbreaks and illnesses. Since bacterial virulence genes (VGs) can act in tandem with antibiotic-resistance and mobile genetic elements, there is a need to evaluate these gene reservoirs in fresh produce, such as cantaloupes. The goal of this study was to assess the distribution of antibiotic-resistance, virulence, and mobile genetic elements genes (MGEGs) in cantaloupe farm environments. A total of 200 samples from cantaloupe melons (n = 99), farm workers' hands (n = 66), and production water (n = 35) were collected in México. Each sample was assayed for the presence of 14 antibiotic-resistance genes, 15 VGs, and 5 MGEGs by polymerase chain reaction. Our results indicated that tetracycline (tetA and tetB) (18% of cantaloupe, 45% of hand samples) and sulfonamide (sul1) (30% of cantaloupe, 71% of hand samples) resistance genes were frequently detected. The colistin resistance gene (mcr1) was detected in 10% of cantaloupe and 23% of farm workers' hands. Among VGs, Salmonella genes invA and spiA were the most abundant. There was a significantly higher likelihood of detecting antibiotic-resistance, virulence, and MGEGs on hands compared with water samples. These results demonstrate a diverse pool of antibiotic-resistance and VGs in cantaloupe production.

Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in food: which behaviour change strategies increase consumers' risk awareness and preventive food-handling behaviour?

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to identify the potential of behaviour change strategies to effectively increase consumers' risk awareness, behavioural intention, and preventive food-handling behaviour to reduce the transmission risk of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria through food. The applied strategies targeted knowledge and determinants of the health action process approach (HAPA). We tested techniques that are expected to increase knowledge, risk perception, and positive outcome expectancy (Study 1) as well as those that increase planning and coping self-efficacy (Study 2) in two randomised control trials.

METHODS

In Study 1 (N = 328), a 2 × 2 between-subject design was employed to investigate the effects of an educational video about the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and a personalised risk message on knowledge, risk perception, outcome expectancy and consequently on intention regarding safe food-handling behaviour. In Study 2 (N = 129), we used a 2 × 2 design to examine to what extent goal setting (implemented vs. not implemented) and time (pre- vs. post-test) affected planning, coping self-efficacy, and preventive food-handling behaviour.

RESULTS

In Study 1, we found that the video increased knowledge and the perceived susceptibility of risk compared to the control video. We found no increase on the dependent variables after receiving the personalised risk message. In Study 2, goal setting significantly improved safe food-handling behaviour compared to the control condition. Moreover, participants in the goal-setting condition showed more planning of safe food-handling measures and of dealing with emerging barriers than participants in the control condition.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that the delivery of an educational video on the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria is a useful strategy to increase risk awareness, whereas goal setting presents a promising approach to improve food-handling behaviour. Following the HAPA, an additional effective behaviour change technique is required that decreases negative outcome expectancies and improves coping self-efficacy, thereby further improving intention and behaviour.

Phylogenetic characterization and multidrug resistance of bacteria isolated from seafood cocktails

The continual increase in resistance to antibacterial drugs has become a major public health problem, and their indiscriminate use in agriculture, aquaculture, and the treatment of human and animal diseases has severely contributed to the occurrence and spread of multidrug resistance genes. This study phylogenetically characterized multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from seafood cocktails. Seafood cocktail dishes from 20 establishments on public roads were sampled. Samples were grown on TCBS agar and blood agar. Forty colonies with different macro- and microscopic characteristics were isolated. The 16S rRNA gene V4 and V6 hypervariable regions were amplified, sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. Antibacterial drug resistance was determined by disk diffusion assay. Isolated bacteria were identical to species of the genera Enterococcus, Proteus, Vibrio, Staphylococcus, Lactococcus, Vagococcus, Micrococcus, Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, and Brevibacterium, with 75-100% presenting resistance or intermediate resistance to dicloxacillin, ampicillin, and penicillin; 50-70% to cephalosporins; 30-67.5% to amikacin, netilmicin and gentamicin; 40% to nitrofurantoin and other antibacterial drugs; 25% to chloramphenicol; and 2.5% to trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole. In general, 80% of the bacteria showed resistance to multiple antibiotics. The high degree of bacterial resistance to antibacterial drugs indicates that their use in producing raw material for marine foods requires established guidelines and the implementation of good practices.

Transfer of Antibiotic Resistance Plasmid from Commensal E. coli Towards Human Intestinal Microbiota in the M-SHIME: Effect of E. coli dosis, Human Individual and Antibiotic Use

Along with (in) direct contact with animals and a contaminated environment, humans are exposed to antibiotic-resistant bacteria by consumption of food. The implications of ingesting antibiotic-resistant commensal bacteria are unknown, as dose-response data on resistance transfer and spreading in our gut is lacking. In this study, transfer of a resistance plasmid (IncF), harbouring several antibiotic resistance genes, from a commensal E. coli strain towards human intestinal microbiota was assessed using a Mucosal Simulator of the Human Intestinal Ecosystem (M-SHIME). More specifically, the effect of the initial E. coli plasmid donor concentration (105 and 107 CFU/meal), antibiotic treatment (cefotaxime) and human individual (n = 6) on plasmid transfer towards lumen coliforms and anaerobes was determined. Transfer of the resistance plasmid to luminal coliforms and anaerobes was observed shortly after the donor strain arrived in the colon and was independent of the ingested dose. Transfer occurred in all six simulated colons and despite their unique microbial community composition, no differences could be detected in antibiotic resistance transfer rates between the simulated human colons. After 72 h, resistant coliform transconjugants levels ranged from 7.6 × 104 to 7.9 × 106 CFUcefotaxime resistant/Ml colon lumen. Presence of the resistance plasmid was confirmed and quantified by PCR and qPCR. Cefotaxime treatment led to a significant reduction (85%) in resistant coliforms, however no significant effect on the total number of cultivable coliforms and anaerobes was observed.

Polyoxometalate based ionic crystal: dual applications in selective colorimetric sensor for hydrated ZnCl2 and antimicrobial activity

One-pot synthesis of POM-salt ([Himi]₄[SiMo₁₂O₄₀] (1)) was achieved by mixing silicomolybdic acid and imidazole in acidic conditions and characterized by FTIR, TGA, SEM, EDX, ICP-OES and XPS.

Molecular Screening of β-glucuronidase and Class 1 Integron of Escherichia coli from Ready-to-Eat Foods in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu

Ready-to-eat food products procured from different roadside shops in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu were screened for Escherichia coli. A total of 500 samples from 250 vegetable and 250 meat products were collected from different hotels, restaurants and street food vendors in Tiruchirappalli, Tamilnadu. Out of 500 ready-to-eat food samples, 162 (32.4%) E. coli strains were isolated. The ready-to-eat meat products had higher bacterial count than the vegetable food samples collected due to unhygienic handling, improper storage, inadequate temperature to maintain processed meat and improper cooking. Biochemically identified E. coli colonies were screened for housekeeping gene uidA and 139 (85.8%) E. coli isolates were confirmed to possess β-glucuronidase activity. In addition, antibiotic susceptibility assay was performed using 12 antibiotics. From 139 E. coli strains, 96 (69.1%) isolates showed multidrug resistance. Among them, 16.7% showed 100% resistance to all the antibiotics tested. Whereas, multidrug resistant E. coli isolates showed increased resistance (75.9%) to streptomycin followed by 70-50% level of resistance to ceftriaxone, ampicillin, cefixime, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, gentamicin, doxycycline, co-trimoxazole, norfloxacin, ofloxacin and chloramphenicol. Furthermore, drug resistant E. coli isolates 56 (58.3%) were detected with the presence of intI1. The source of contamination was found to be water and human handling. Drinking water supply from corporation might have been contaminated with fecal waste source is being discharged into Cauvery river which might disseminate horizontal gene transfer.

Exposure Pathways to Antimicrobial Resistance at the Human-Animal Interface-A Qualitative Comparison of Swiss Expert and Consumer Opinions

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an emerging global health concern, affecting both the animal and the human population. Transmission pathways of AMR are therefore abundant and complex, and ways to prevent or reduce transmission to consumers must be identified. The overall goal of this study was to define the content of an intervention study aimed at reducing the transmission of AMR from animal sources to humans. To identify the most relevant pathways, Swiss experts and consumers were interviewed about their opinions on the risks of transmission of AMR. Opinions of experts and consumers were then qualitatively compared and the main gaps identified. The results revealed that Swiss consumers had several misconceptions regarding the sources and transmission of AMR, and that they in particular underestimated the importance of poultry meat and pets as a potential source of AMR. Furthermore, high uncertainty was noted in experts regarding the prevalence of AMR in pets and the potential of transmission to their owners. Consequently, awareness of AMR transmission pathways should be increased among consumers to overcome common misconceptions, which will help reduce the risk of transmission. Further research is needed to better understand the pets' potential to harbor and transmit AMR to their owners, and to identify most effective methods to increase risk awareness in consumers as well as intervention strategies promoting consumer behaviors to mitigate AMR transmissions at the human-animal interface.

Poor mental health of livestock farmers in Africa: a mixed methods case study from Ghana

Background

Agriculture represents the mainstay of African economies and livestock products are essential to the human population’s nutritional needs. However, in many developing countries, including Ghana, livestock production fails to meet demand due to population growth and negative effects of climate change. One of the challenges to production is livestock loss affecting farmers. However, despite stressful events experienced, livestock farmers’ mental health is poorly documented. This study aims to identify the root causes of livestock losses and their influence on pastoralists’ mental health.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods study in two districts in the Northern and Southern Belts of Ghana. Using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale–21 and guided interviews, we collected quantitative and qualitative data from 287 livestock farmers and 24 key-informants respectively. Mental health scores were categorized using standard guidelines. We evaluated the factors that explained variations in mental wellbeing using general linear models (α = 0.05).

Results

About 85% (240/287) of the livestock farmers lost cattle within 1 year. Of these, 91% lost cattle to animal diseases, 50% to theft and 27% to pasture shortages. Qualitative findings reveal that due to poor access to veterinary services, farmers treat livestock diseases themselves with drugs from unregulated sources and often sell diseased cows for meat to recover losses. Findings showed that 60% of livestock farmers had poor mental health. Of those, 72% were depressed, 66% anxious and 59% stressed. Mental wellbeing was negatively associated with the number of adverse events experienced, proportion of livestock lost to most of the major loss factors, emotional attachment to livestock and self-reported physical illnesses in farmers, but positively associated with increasing herd size [F (8,278) = 14.18, p < 0.001, R² = 0.29].

Conclusions

Livestock diseases are the leading cause of losses to livestock farmers, whose mental wellbeing is negatively affected by these losses. Although an adaptive strategy by farmers to compensate for poor veterinary services, the arbitrary use of veterinary drugs and sale of diseased cattle pose health risks to the public. Further research to evaluate the performance of veterinary services in Ghana, mental health problems and risk to human health due to potential high-risk meat entering the food chain, is needed.

Identification of an unauthorized genetically modified bacteria in food enzyme through whole-genome sequencing

Recently, the unexpected presence of a viable unauthorized genetically modified bacterium in a commercialized food enzyme (protease) product originating from a microbial fermentation process has been notified at the European level (RASFF 2019.3332). This finding was made possible thanks to the use of the next-generation sequencing technology, as reported in this study. Whole-genome sequencing was used to characterize the genetic modification comprising a sequence from the pUB110 shuttle vector (GenBank: M19465.1), harbouring antimicrobial resistance genes conferring a resistance to kanamycine, neomycin and bleomycin, flanked on each side by a sequence coding for a protease (GenBank: WP_032874795.1). In addition, based on these data, two real-time PCR methods, that can be used by enforcement laboratories, specific to this unauthorized genetically modified bacterium were developed and validated. The present study emphasizes the key role that whole-genome sequencing can take for detection of unknown and unauthorized genetically modified microorganisms in commercialized microbial fermentation products intended for the food and feed chain. Moreover, current issues encountered by the Competent Authorities and enforcement laboratories with such unexpected contaminations and the importance of performing official controls were highlighted.

Farm animals and aquaculture: significant reservoirs of mobile colistin resistance genes

Colistin resistance has attracted substantial attention after colistin was considered as a last-resort drug for the treatment of infections caused by carbapenem-resistant and/or multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria in clinical settings. However, with the discovery of highly mobile colistin resistance (mcr) genes, colistin resistance has become an increasingly urgent issue worldwide. Despite many reviews, which summarized the prevalence, mechanisms, and structures of these genes in bacteria of human and animal origin, studies on the prevalence of mobile colistin resistance genes in aquaculture and their transmission between animals and humans remain scarce. Herein, we review recent reports on the prevalence of colistin resistance genes in animals, especially wildlife and aquaculture, and their possibility of transmission to humans via the food chain. This review also gives some insights into the routine surveillance, changing policy and replacement of polymyxins by polymyxin derivatives, molecular inhibitors, and traditional Chinese medicine to tackle colistin resistance.

Overview of Evidence of Antimicrobial Use and Antimicrobial Resistance in the Food Chain

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health problem. Bacteria carrying resistance genes can be transmitted between humans, animals and the environment. There are concerns that the widespread use of antimicrobials in the food chain constitutes an important source of AMR in humans, but the extent of this transmission is not well understood. The aim of this review is to examine published evidence on the links between antimicrobial use (AMU) in the food chain and AMR in people and animals. The evidence showed a link between AMU in animals and the occurrence of resistance in these animals. However, evidence of the benefits of a reduction in AMU in animals on the prevalence of resistant bacteria in humans is scarce. The presence of resistant bacteria is documented in the human food supply chain, which presents a potential exposure route and risk to public health. Microbial genome sequencing has enabled the establishment of some links between the presence of resistant bacteria in humans and animals but, for some antimicrobials, no link could be established. Research and monitoring of AMU and AMR in an integrated manner is essential for a better understanding of the biology and the dynamics of antimicrobial resistance.

Endogenous CRISPR-Cas System-Based Genome Editing and Antimicrobials: Review and Prospects

CRISPR-Cas systems adapt “memories” via spacers from viruses and plasmids to develop adaptive immunity against mobile genetic elements. Mature CRISPR RNAs guide CRISPR-associated nucleases to site-specifically cleave target DNA or RNA, providing an efficient genome engineering tool for organisms of all three kingdoms. Cas9, Cas12, and Cas13 are single proteins with multiple domains that are the most widely used CRISPR nucleases of the Class 2 system. However, these CRISPR endonucleases are large in size, leading to difficulty for manipulation and toxicity for cells. Most archaeal genomes and half of the bacterial genomes encode different types of CRISPR-Cas systems. Therefore, developing endogenous CRISPR-Cas systems-based genome editing will simplify manipulations and increase editing efficiency in prokaryotic cells. Here, we review the current applications and discuss the prospects of using endogenous CRISPR nucleases for genome engineering and CRISPR-based antimicrobials.