- International Journal of Microbiology & Advanced Immunology (IJMAI) ISSN:2329-9967 is a comprehensive, peer reviewed ... moreInternational Journal of Microbiology & Advanced Immunology (IJMAI) ISSN:2329-9967 is a comprehensive, peer reviewed journal devoted to microbiology and advanced immunology. IJMAI, published by SciDoc is an open access journal that includes high quality papers, which covers all major areas of microbiology, immunology and its related fields. SciDoc with its Open Access publication model spreads all the day-to-day developments and research to readers around the world.
IJMAI is an open access journal publishing original peer-reviewed research articles in molecular, cellular, tissue-level, organismal, functional, and developmental aspects of microbiology and immune system as well as clinical studies and animal models of human diseases.
IJMAI publishes original research, latest developments, review papers, scientific data, editorials from leading scientists and scholars around the world including but, not limited to the following fields:
Bacteriology
Mycology
Protozoology
Parasitology
Immunology
Nematology
Microbial cytology
Microbial physiology
Microbial ecology
Medical microbiology
Industrial microbiology
Soil microbiology
Osteoimmunology
Clinical immunology
Environmental microbiology
Food microbiology and Dairy microbiology
Plant microbiology and Plant pathology
Veterinary microbiology
Microbial diversity
Water microbiology or Aquatic microbiology
Epidemiology
Classical immunology
Developmental immunology
Diagnostic immunology
Reproductive immunology
Microbial genetics
Cellular microbiology
Evolutionary microbiology
Bioremediation
Aero microbiology or Air microbiology
Microbial taxonomy
Microbial systematics
Generation microbiology
Systems microbiology
Molecular microbiology
Nano microbiology
Exo microbiology or Astro microbiology
Weapon microbiology
Pharmaceutical microbiology
Microbial biotechnology
Agricultural microbiology
Immunotherapy
Evolutionary immunology
Immunomicsedit
Functional properties of probiotics coupled with consumer’s inclination towards healthful foods have projected probiotics as a new ingredient in functional food market. Probiotic containing foods exhibits diverse health ben-efits and the... more
Functional properties of probiotics coupled with consumer’s inclination towards healthful foods have projected probiotics as a new
ingredient in functional food market. Probiotic containing foods exhibits diverse health ben-efits and the starter cultures employed
for formulation of probiotic supplemented food must possess certain pre-requisite characteristics to exhibit prophylactic properties.
Probiotic containing foods available in the market are often of poor quality and did not meet the desired level of viable microorganisms,
required for exhibiting health benefits. In the present article an endeavor has been made to highlight the significance of probiotic
viability and their population for exhibiting health benefits and the quality of probiotic containing foods available in the global market
and prerequisites for identity of a product as a probiotic food have also been delineated. Production of probiotic supplemented food
with prophylactic is emerging to build-up consumer’s confidence for long-term sus-tainability of probiotic food industries.
Keywords: Probiotic; Health claims; Food; Starter cultures
ingredient in functional food market. Probiotic containing foods exhibits diverse health ben-efits and the starter cultures employed
for formulation of probiotic supplemented food must possess certain pre-requisite characteristics to exhibit prophylactic properties.
Probiotic containing foods available in the market are often of poor quality and did not meet the desired level of viable microorganisms,
required for exhibiting health benefits. In the present article an endeavor has been made to highlight the significance of probiotic
viability and their population for exhibiting health benefits and the quality of probiotic containing foods available in the global market
and prerequisites for identity of a product as a probiotic food have also been delineated. Production of probiotic supplemented food
with prophylactic is emerging to build-up consumer’s confidence for long-term sus-tainability of probiotic food industries.
Keywords: Probiotic; Health claims; Food; Starter cultures
Research Interests:
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Research Interests:
Objective: To present the situation of Tuberculosis (TB) in the region of Sousse. Materials And Methods: A retrospective study conducted during 4 years (2006-2009) concerning all TB cases in the region of Sousse diagnosed according to... more
Objective: To present the situation of Tuberculosis (TB) in the region of Sousse.
Materials And Methods: A retrospective study conducted during 4 years (2006-2009) concerning all TB cases in the region of Sousse diagnosed
according to bacteriological or histo-pathological and / or clinical criteria.
Results: The total of TB cases is 494. The incidences noted for the period study were respectively 20.7, 20.6, 24.7 and 22.4. The mean age
was 39.7 years, the sex ratio was 1.4. Close contact was found in 29.7%. Twenty patients were prisoners. The mean delay for TB diagnosis was
45 days. Symptoms were predominated by cough and fever in pulmonary TB (PTB). HIV infection was noted in only 2 patients with extrapulmonary
tuberculosis (EPTB). TB was 233 times pulmonary and 261 times extra pulmonary (31% lymph nodes). Bacteriology confirmed the
diagnosis in 207 cases; microscopy was positive in 67.6% (PTB) and 15.9% (EPTB). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed for 8 strains
/ patients. Mortality attributed directly to TB was 0.2%.
Conclusion: TB remains endemic in our region. TB location is primarily lung and lymph nodes. TB is not related to HIV infection. MDR and
mortality attributed to TB are rare in our region.
Keywords: Tuberculosis; Epidemiology; Bacteriology; Sousse.
Materials And Methods: A retrospective study conducted during 4 years (2006-2009) concerning all TB cases in the region of Sousse diagnosed
according to bacteriological or histo-pathological and / or clinical criteria.
Results: The total of TB cases is 494. The incidences noted for the period study were respectively 20.7, 20.6, 24.7 and 22.4. The mean age
was 39.7 years, the sex ratio was 1.4. Close contact was found in 29.7%. Twenty patients were prisoners. The mean delay for TB diagnosis was
45 days. Symptoms were predominated by cough and fever in pulmonary TB (PTB). HIV infection was noted in only 2 patients with extrapulmonary
tuberculosis (EPTB). TB was 233 times pulmonary and 261 times extra pulmonary (31% lymph nodes). Bacteriology confirmed the
diagnosis in 207 cases; microscopy was positive in 67.6% (PTB) and 15.9% (EPTB). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed for 8 strains
/ patients. Mortality attributed directly to TB was 0.2%.
Conclusion: TB remains endemic in our region. TB location is primarily lung and lymph nodes. TB is not related to HIV infection. MDR and
mortality attributed to TB are rare in our region.
Keywords: Tuberculosis; Epidemiology; Bacteriology; Sousse.
Research Interests:
The extracts of petroleum ether, methanol, ethyl acetate and ether from Taxus chinensis var. mairei seeds were analyzed by GC-MS, and relative contents were determined using a normalized method. 56 peaks were obtained from extracts of... more
The extracts of petroleum ether, methanol, ethyl acetate and ether from Taxus chinensis var. mairei seeds were analyzed by GC-MS, and
relative contents were determined using a normalized method. 56 peaks were obtained from extracts of spermoderm and 79 peaks
from endosperm of T. chinensis var. mairei. Among these peaks, 37 chemical constituents were gained, and 24 compounds of which
were identified (64.86%). There were 35 chemical constituents with content more than 1%, accounting for 94.59% of the total of all
chemical constituents. 32 peaks were gained from petroleum ether extract, and 7 peaks were identified (21.88%) with content more
than 1%. 36 peaks were gained from methanol extracts, and 14 peaks were identified (38.89%), 13 of which with content more than
1%, accounting for 92.86% of the total of all chemical constituents. 34 peaks were gained from ethyl acetate extracts, while 10 peaks
were identified (29.41%) with content more than 1%. 33 peaks were gained from aether extracts, and 11 peaks were identified (33.33%).
T. chinensis var. mairei seeds have various bio-active ingredients and a higher value for development and utilization as a medicinal plant.
Keywords: Taxus chinensis var. mairei; seed; chemical components; GC-MS; composition analysis
relative contents were determined using a normalized method. 56 peaks were obtained from extracts of spermoderm and 79 peaks
from endosperm of T. chinensis var. mairei. Among these peaks, 37 chemical constituents were gained, and 24 compounds of which
were identified (64.86%). There were 35 chemical constituents with content more than 1%, accounting for 94.59% of the total of all
chemical constituents. 32 peaks were gained from petroleum ether extract, and 7 peaks were identified (21.88%) with content more
than 1%. 36 peaks were gained from methanol extracts, and 14 peaks were identified (38.89%), 13 of which with content more than
1%, accounting for 92.86% of the total of all chemical constituents. 34 peaks were gained from ethyl acetate extracts, while 10 peaks
were identified (29.41%) with content more than 1%. 33 peaks were gained from aether extracts, and 11 peaks were identified (33.33%).
T. chinensis var. mairei seeds have various bio-active ingredients and a higher value for development and utilization as a medicinal plant.
Keywords: Taxus chinensis var. mairei; seed; chemical components; GC-MS; composition analysis
Research Interests:
The Partial characterization of immunoglobulin Cμ gene of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) has revealed unique features of the IgM isotype. Although, buffalo Cμ domain shares high amino acid sequence similarity with Cμ of cattle (94.28%)... more
The Partial characterization of immunoglobulin Cμ gene of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) has revealed unique features of the IgM
isotype. Although, buffalo Cμ domain shares high amino acid sequence similarity with Cμ of cattle (94.28%) and sheep (91.71%), four
distinct amino acid replacements (Met-301, Val-310, Asn-331 and Thr-432) spread across Cμ2, Cμ3 and Cμ4 diverge from those in
cattle and sheep. As compared to cattle, buffalo Cμ gene has a codon deletion at position 507 (GTG encoding valine present in cattle)
and insertion of GGC encodingglycine at position 532 in the Cμ4 domain. Unlike cattle and sheep, buffalo IgM has three potential
N-linked glycosylation (Asn-X-Thr/Ser) sites, one at position 325-327 in the Cμ2 domain and two at positions 372-374 and 394-396
in the Cμ3 domain. Similar to cattle, buffalo IgM has fewer proline residues in Cμ2 domain that acts as hinge resulting in restricted
flexibility of Fab arms. The increased structural flexibility in the C1q-binding site in Cμ3 may compensate for the rigid Cμ2 domain
of buffalo IgM. The secondary structure of C1q binding site reveals its distinct features in buffalo and cattle IgM where a long alphahelical
structure is predominant which seems to be relevant to complement fixation function. The conserved protein motif ‘Thr- Cys-
Thr-Val-Ala-His’ provides protein signatures of C1q binding region across ruminant species. The distinct structural features of C1q
binding site of buffalo IgM, closest to cattle, are likely to be of functional significance relevant to designing antibody based therapeutics
and diagnostics.
Keywords: Buffalo; Cμ Gene; Immunoglobulin; IgM; C1q-Binding Site
isotype. Although, buffalo Cμ domain shares high amino acid sequence similarity with Cμ of cattle (94.28%) and sheep (91.71%), four
distinct amino acid replacements (Met-301, Val-310, Asn-331 and Thr-432) spread across Cμ2, Cμ3 and Cμ4 diverge from those in
cattle and sheep. As compared to cattle, buffalo Cμ gene has a codon deletion at position 507 (GTG encoding valine present in cattle)
and insertion of GGC encodingglycine at position 532 in the Cμ4 domain. Unlike cattle and sheep, buffalo IgM has three potential
N-linked glycosylation (Asn-X-Thr/Ser) sites, one at position 325-327 in the Cμ2 domain and two at positions 372-374 and 394-396
in the Cμ3 domain. Similar to cattle, buffalo IgM has fewer proline residues in Cμ2 domain that acts as hinge resulting in restricted
flexibility of Fab arms. The increased structural flexibility in the C1q-binding site in Cμ3 may compensate for the rigid Cμ2 domain
of buffalo IgM. The secondary structure of C1q binding site reveals its distinct features in buffalo and cattle IgM where a long alphahelical
structure is predominant which seems to be relevant to complement fixation function. The conserved protein motif ‘Thr- Cys-
Thr-Val-Ala-His’ provides protein signatures of C1q binding region across ruminant species. The distinct structural features of C1q
binding site of buffalo IgM, closest to cattle, are likely to be of functional significance relevant to designing antibody based therapeutics
and diagnostics.
Keywords: Buffalo; Cμ Gene; Immunoglobulin; IgM; C1q-Binding Site
Research Interests:
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a causative agent of gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcers and gastric adenocarcinoma. Improper diagnostic facilities are responsible for the increasing incidence of H. pylori infections in Pakistan. ELISA is... more
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a causative agent of gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcers and gastric adenocarcinoma. Improper diagnostic
facilities are responsible for the increasing incidence of H. pylori infections in Pakistan. ELISA is a noninvasive, less expensive assay for
diagnosis of H. pylori. ELISA performance is mainly based on the H. pylori strain and nature of antigen. In this study, a total of 214
gastritis and ulcer patient’s serum samples were screened for anti- H. pylori IgG antibody. A 96-well plate coated with 10 μg/ml sonicate
antigen and hundred-fold diluted patient’s serum was allowed to react. After extensive washing with buffer, 1:2,000 diluted conjugated
secondary antibody was added. Later substrate was added to observe positivity by measuring the intensity of color. Statistical analyses
were performed, and p value of <0.01 was taken as significant; 84 % male patients and 96 % female patients, respectively, tested positive
for H. pylori, while agewise distribution was 35–45 years males (40 %) and 35–45 years females (73 %) were found highest number
of H. pylori infected patients. In-house ELISA based on sonicate whole cell antigen (sELISA) showed a sensitivity of 98 %, specificity
of 100 %, accuracy 98 % and κ value 0.906 with significant correlation R—0.956; p < 0.0001. We conclude that ELISA for H. pylori
sero-diagnostic infection should be based on the local strain for better sensitivity and specificity. sELISA is better and reliable diagnostic
assay for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection in gastric patients of Karachi, Pakistan.
Key Words: Diagnosis; Helicobacter pylori; Sonicate whole cell antigen; In-house Enzyme-linked immunoassay; Gastroduodenal ulcer
disease.
facilities are responsible for the increasing incidence of H. pylori infections in Pakistan. ELISA is a noninvasive, less expensive assay for
diagnosis of H. pylori. ELISA performance is mainly based on the H. pylori strain and nature of antigen. In this study, a total of 214
gastritis and ulcer patient’s serum samples were screened for anti- H. pylori IgG antibody. A 96-well plate coated with 10 μg/ml sonicate
antigen and hundred-fold diluted patient’s serum was allowed to react. After extensive washing with buffer, 1:2,000 diluted conjugated
secondary antibody was added. Later substrate was added to observe positivity by measuring the intensity of color. Statistical analyses
were performed, and p value of <0.01 was taken as significant; 84 % male patients and 96 % female patients, respectively, tested positive
for H. pylori, while agewise distribution was 35–45 years males (40 %) and 35–45 years females (73 %) were found highest number
of H. pylori infected patients. In-house ELISA based on sonicate whole cell antigen (sELISA) showed a sensitivity of 98 %, specificity
of 100 %, accuracy 98 % and κ value 0.906 with significant correlation R—0.956; p < 0.0001. We conclude that ELISA for H. pylori
sero-diagnostic infection should be based on the local strain for better sensitivity and specificity. sELISA is better and reliable diagnostic
assay for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection in gastric patients of Karachi, Pakistan.
Key Words: Diagnosis; Helicobacter pylori; Sonicate whole cell antigen; In-house Enzyme-linked immunoassay; Gastroduodenal ulcer
disease.
Research Interests:
Carotene desaturation, an essential step in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, is catalyzed by two enzymes, phytoene desaturase (PDS) and ζ-carotene desaturase (zeta carotene desaturase, ZDS). Here we describe cloning and E. Coli... more
Carotene desaturation, an essential step in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, is catalyzed by two enzymes, phytoene desaturase
(PDS) and ζ-carotene desaturase (zeta carotene desaturase, ZDS). Here we describe cloning and E. Coli expression of zds-Fc, a novel
Ficus carica ζ-carotene desaturase catalyzing dehydrogenation of ζ-carotene into neurosporene and finally lycopene. The ζ-carotene desaturase
(ZDS) gene was amplified from the fig tree by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and spanned a 1746 bp open reading
frame (ORF), encoding a protein of 582 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular weight of 64kD. The N-terminal region of
this polypeptide contained a putative transit sequence for plastid targeting. By phylogenetic and sequence analyses, zds-Fc showed high
homology with previously described ζ-carotene desaturases from higher plant species (Al-Babili et al. 1998; Cong et al. 2009; Matthews
et al. 2003; Yan et al. 2011). Additionally, sequence analysis revealed a high degree of conservation among plant ZDSs. The deduced
ZDS protein, designated FcZDS, also contains an N-terminus dinucleotide-binding, followed by a conserved region identified in other
carotene desaturase sequences. These data, taken together, confirm our cloned zds-Fc as an integral part of the ZDS family of proteins.
Key Words: Ficus Carica; Zeta-Carotene Desaturase; Cdna; Zeta-Carotene; Neurosporene; Lycopene.
(PDS) and ζ-carotene desaturase (zeta carotene desaturase, ZDS). Here we describe cloning and E. Coli expression of zds-Fc, a novel
Ficus carica ζ-carotene desaturase catalyzing dehydrogenation of ζ-carotene into neurosporene and finally lycopene. The ζ-carotene desaturase
(ZDS) gene was amplified from the fig tree by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and spanned a 1746 bp open reading
frame (ORF), encoding a protein of 582 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular weight of 64kD. The N-terminal region of
this polypeptide contained a putative transit sequence for plastid targeting. By phylogenetic and sequence analyses, zds-Fc showed high
homology with previously described ζ-carotene desaturases from higher plant species (Al-Babili et al. 1998; Cong et al. 2009; Matthews
et al. 2003; Yan et al. 2011). Additionally, sequence analysis revealed a high degree of conservation among plant ZDSs. The deduced
ZDS protein, designated FcZDS, also contains an N-terminus dinucleotide-binding, followed by a conserved region identified in other
carotene desaturase sequences. These data, taken together, confirm our cloned zds-Fc as an integral part of the ZDS family of proteins.
Key Words: Ficus Carica; Zeta-Carotene Desaturase; Cdna; Zeta-Carotene; Neurosporene; Lycopene.
Research Interests:
Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental disease where gastrointestinal disturbance is commonly reported. Here we review the evidence suggesting that gut microbota my play a role in this disease and summarize comparative... more
Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental disease where gastrointestinal disturbance is commonly reported. Here
we review the evidence suggesting that gut microbota my play a role in this disease and summarize comparative studies we found in
international literature on the topic. Discussion of results, methodology of the data collection, bias of selection and behavioral interferences
lead to the conclusion that changes in the gut microbiota is a significant piece of autism spectrum disorder but further studies
are needed to understand this pathogenetic role.
we review the evidence suggesting that gut microbota my play a role in this disease and summarize comparative studies we found in
international literature on the topic. Discussion of results, methodology of the data collection, bias of selection and behavioral interferences
lead to the conclusion that changes in the gut microbiota is a significant piece of autism spectrum disorder but further studies
are needed to understand this pathogenetic role.
Research Interests:
Background: Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is important nosocomial pathogen which has elevated morbidity and mortality rates. Objectives: The aim of our study was to find out the present scenario of prevalence,... more
Background: Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is important nosocomial pathogen which has elevated morbidity and
mortality rates.
Objectives: The aim of our study was to find out the present scenario of prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility pattern and the demographic
factors such as age and gender related to MRSA in different wards of tertiary hospital.
Methods: Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from fifty one clinical specimens at Mayo hospital, Lahore and were subjected to in vitro
sensitivity against various antimicrobials by using Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method.
Results: Out of total S. aureus isolated 55% were found to be resistant with methicillin/oxacillin. Most of the MRSA specimens were
also found to be susceptible to vancomycin, whereas most were found resistant to ampicillin. Majority of MRSA were isolated from
blood samples (31%) followed by pus samples (28%). Most MRSA isolates were seen in the patients admitted in medical wards (32%)
followed by dermatology (18%).
Conclusions: Vancomycin is losing its effectiveness against methicillin resistant strains of S. aureus, as one vancomycin resistant sample
was also isolated during the study. Prevalence of MRSA found elevated which was evident as more prevalent in males as compare to
females, and 30-39 years age group was found to be more affected. Medical ward had most of the MRSA patients followed by dermatology.
Improved diagnostic techniques can produce better results by promoting targeted therapy. Laws should be devised which will
keep a check on the antibiotic prescriptions made by doctors.
Keywords: MRSA; Prevalence; Demography; Lahore; Pakistan.
mortality rates.
Objectives: The aim of our study was to find out the present scenario of prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility pattern and the demographic
factors such as age and gender related to MRSA in different wards of tertiary hospital.
Methods: Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from fifty one clinical specimens at Mayo hospital, Lahore and were subjected to in vitro
sensitivity against various antimicrobials by using Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method.
Results: Out of total S. aureus isolated 55% were found to be resistant with methicillin/oxacillin. Most of the MRSA specimens were
also found to be susceptible to vancomycin, whereas most were found resistant to ampicillin. Majority of MRSA were isolated from
blood samples (31%) followed by pus samples (28%). Most MRSA isolates were seen in the patients admitted in medical wards (32%)
followed by dermatology (18%).
Conclusions: Vancomycin is losing its effectiveness against methicillin resistant strains of S. aureus, as one vancomycin resistant sample
was also isolated during the study. Prevalence of MRSA found elevated which was evident as more prevalent in males as compare to
females, and 30-39 years age group was found to be more affected. Medical ward had most of the MRSA patients followed by dermatology.
Improved diagnostic techniques can produce better results by promoting targeted therapy. Laws should be devised which will
keep a check on the antibiotic prescriptions made by doctors.
Keywords: MRSA; Prevalence; Demography; Lahore; Pakistan.
Research Interests:
Objectives: Sepsis is one of the most important cause of admission in Intensive Care Units, probably due to the more severe illnesses of hospitalized patients and to the persistently high incidence of nosocomial infections. However,... more
Objectives: Sepsis is one of the most important cause of admission in Intensive Care Units, probably due to the more
severe illnesses of hospitalized patients and to the persistently high incidence of nosocomial infections. However, despite
the availability of potential antibiotics and refined supportive care the mortality of septic patients remains high, with overall
estimates of about 30% and increasing to 50% when associated with shock. In this study, our aim is to determine retrospectively
the epidemiology of blood stream infections occurred in Intensive Care Units of Kafkas University Health Research
and Application Hospital and to present the first data from this university hospital.
Materials and Methods: Total 1004 blood culture bottle were sent to Microbiology Laboratory of Kafkas University
Health Research and Application Hospital between January 2013 to January 2015. All bottles were placed into Automated
BACTEC 9050 Blood Culture System. After the positive bottles were detected by machine, the bacteria were identified and
antibiotic susceptibility test were performed by using both BD Phoneix Microorganism Identification System and Kirby-
Bauer Disk Diffusion method.
Results: Total 202 positive samples were detected and the biggest part of total positive samples (n:164, 81.2%) were sent
by Internal Intensive Care Unit. The identified bacteria were MRCNS (n:67, 33.2%), MSCNS (n:42, 20.8%), MRSA (n:29,
14.3%), E.coli (n:23, 11.3%), MSSA (n:16, 7.9%), P.aeruginosa (n:9, 4.5%), Enterococcus spp (n:9, 4.5%), K.pneumoniae (n:4,
1.9%), A.baumannii (n:1, 0.5%), Proteus mirabilis (n:1, 0.5%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (n:1, 0.5%), respectively. Additionally
Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) were detected as positive in 7 E.coli.
Conclusions: Gram negative bacteria are still important. However; in recent years, coagulase negative staphylococci are
the most detected bacteria in Intensive Care Units. For this reason, increased MRCNS rate may restrict antibiotic options
and lead increasing the usage of glyco- peptides prophylactically. It is necessary to perform active surveillance studies, obey
standard infection control measures and develop an appropriate antibiotic policy for decreasing the frequency of resistant
microorganisms, due to the changes in microorganism types in ICUs and their antibiotic susceptibilities.
Keywords: Intensive Care Units; Blood stream Infections; Epidemiology.
severe illnesses of hospitalized patients and to the persistently high incidence of nosocomial infections. However, despite
the availability of potential antibiotics and refined supportive care the mortality of septic patients remains high, with overall
estimates of about 30% and increasing to 50% when associated with shock. In this study, our aim is to determine retrospectively
the epidemiology of blood stream infections occurred in Intensive Care Units of Kafkas University Health Research
and Application Hospital and to present the first data from this university hospital.
Materials and Methods: Total 1004 blood culture bottle were sent to Microbiology Laboratory of Kafkas University
Health Research and Application Hospital between January 2013 to January 2015. All bottles were placed into Automated
BACTEC 9050 Blood Culture System. After the positive bottles were detected by machine, the bacteria were identified and
antibiotic susceptibility test were performed by using both BD Phoneix Microorganism Identification System and Kirby-
Bauer Disk Diffusion method.
Results: Total 202 positive samples were detected and the biggest part of total positive samples (n:164, 81.2%) were sent
by Internal Intensive Care Unit. The identified bacteria were MRCNS (n:67, 33.2%), MSCNS (n:42, 20.8%), MRSA (n:29,
14.3%), E.coli (n:23, 11.3%), MSSA (n:16, 7.9%), P.aeruginosa (n:9, 4.5%), Enterococcus spp (n:9, 4.5%), K.pneumoniae (n:4,
1.9%), A.baumannii (n:1, 0.5%), Proteus mirabilis (n:1, 0.5%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (n:1, 0.5%), respectively. Additionally
Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) were detected as positive in 7 E.coli.
Conclusions: Gram negative bacteria are still important. However; in recent years, coagulase negative staphylococci are
the most detected bacteria in Intensive Care Units. For this reason, increased MRCNS rate may restrict antibiotic options
and lead increasing the usage of glyco- peptides prophylactically. It is necessary to perform active surveillance studies, obey
standard infection control measures and develop an appropriate antibiotic policy for decreasing the frequency of resistant
microorganisms, due to the changes in microorganism types in ICUs and their antibiotic susceptibilities.
Keywords: Intensive Care Units; Blood stream Infections; Epidemiology.
Research Interests:
Introduction: Escherichia coli (E.coli) is a common bacterial pathogen for acute diarrhea in children. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence mainly of TEM and SHV-beta lactamase-encoding genes responsible for... more
Introduction: Escherichia coli (E.coli) is a common bacterial pathogen for acute diarrhea in children. The aim of the present
study was to determine the prevalence mainly of TEM and SHV-beta lactamase-encoding genes responsible for extended
spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) production amongst diarrheagenic E. coli species as these strains are reported to have been
increased in recent years.
Methodology: The study included children with acute diarrhea presented in Mansoura University children hospital during
the period from January 2011 till Jun 2014. In the microbiological laboratory stool samples were cultured and the isolated
colonies were identified by standard biochemical reactions and by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for identification
of diarrheagenic E.coli strains. In vitro susceptibility testing of all isolates was performed using the discs diffusion method.
E.coli isolates were subjected to testing to detect the possible presence of SHV, and TEM genes by conventional PCR.
Results and Conclusion: The study included 600 children presented as acute diarrhea. Acute diarrhea caused by E.coli was
detected in 160 samples. ESBL genes either TEM or SHF was detected in 31.1% of isolated E.coli. The commonest gene
was TEM (22.5%), then SHF (10%). Combined genes were detected only in 2 isolates, table 6.
The commonest resistance pattern of E.coli harboring ESBL genes cefepime (100%), cefazolin (96%) and cefotaxime (96%)
and for non beta lactams the commonest was for ciprofloxacin (88%), amikacin and tobramycin (20% for each), Table7.
From this study we can conclude that extended beta lactamase production is common among diarrheagenic Escherichia coli
isolated from children below 5 years. The bla-TEM is the common genetic mechanism for extended beta lactamase production
in these isolates followed by bla-SHF.
Keywords: Diarrheagenic E.coli; ESBLs; bla TEM; bla SHF.
study was to determine the prevalence mainly of TEM and SHV-beta lactamase-encoding genes responsible for extended
spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) production amongst diarrheagenic E. coli species as these strains are reported to have been
increased in recent years.
Methodology: The study included children with acute diarrhea presented in Mansoura University children hospital during
the period from January 2011 till Jun 2014. In the microbiological laboratory stool samples were cultured and the isolated
colonies were identified by standard biochemical reactions and by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for identification
of diarrheagenic E.coli strains. In vitro susceptibility testing of all isolates was performed using the discs diffusion method.
E.coli isolates were subjected to testing to detect the possible presence of SHV, and TEM genes by conventional PCR.
Results and Conclusion: The study included 600 children presented as acute diarrhea. Acute diarrhea caused by E.coli was
detected in 160 samples. ESBL genes either TEM or SHF was detected in 31.1% of isolated E.coli. The commonest gene
was TEM (22.5%), then SHF (10%). Combined genes were detected only in 2 isolates, table 6.
The commonest resistance pattern of E.coli harboring ESBL genes cefepime (100%), cefazolin (96%) and cefotaxime (96%)
and for non beta lactams the commonest was for ciprofloxacin (88%), amikacin and tobramycin (20% for each), Table7.
From this study we can conclude that extended beta lactamase production is common among diarrheagenic Escherichia coli
isolated from children below 5 years. The bla-TEM is the common genetic mechanism for extended beta lactamase production
in these isolates followed by bla-SHF.
Keywords: Diarrheagenic E.coli; ESBLs; bla TEM; bla SHF.
Research Interests:
Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis in humans and animals, and is predominantly transmitted by ingestion of contaminated food. Its severity and high mortality rate make listeriosis a relevant foodborne disease. Currently, biological... more
Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis in humans and animals, and is predominantly transmitted by ingestion of contaminated
food. Its severity and high mortality rate make listeriosis a relevant foodborne disease. Currently, biological strategies using
probiotic lactobacilli to prevent and control infectious diseases are being globally investigated. The biocontrol exerted by
certain Lactobacillus spp. is mainly due to the production of a variety of antimicrobial substances. The aims of this work were
(1) to investigate the presence of Listeria spp. in raw cow milk and (2) to determine the inhibitory activity of bacteriocin-like
inhibitory substances (BLIS-es) produced by Lactobacillus fermentum L23 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus L60 on L. monocytogenes
and other listerial species isolated from food and clinical samples. The presence of Listeria spp. in raw milk was evaluated in
814 samples from 238 cows. The listerial prevalence in cattle was 0.84% and the isolates were identified as L. innocua (LI1)
and L. welshimeri (LW1). A total of 29 listerial strains were used as indicator microorganisms to evaluate the antimicrobial
activity of BLIS-es L23 and L60. Bioactive metabolites produced by these lactobacilli strains were able to inhibit the listerial
growth. This biological activity was mainly attributed to the BLIS-es L23 and L60 which, even at low concentration, were
active on 100% of listerial strains. This study reveals a strong potential for the biotechnological use of these bacteriocin
producing lactobacilli as a biostrategy against Listeria spp.
Keywords: Antilisterial Activity; Bacteriocins; Lactobacillus spp.; Listeria monocytogenes; Raw Cow Milk.
food. Its severity and high mortality rate make listeriosis a relevant foodborne disease. Currently, biological strategies using
probiotic lactobacilli to prevent and control infectious diseases are being globally investigated. The biocontrol exerted by
certain Lactobacillus spp. is mainly due to the production of a variety of antimicrobial substances. The aims of this work were
(1) to investigate the presence of Listeria spp. in raw cow milk and (2) to determine the inhibitory activity of bacteriocin-like
inhibitory substances (BLIS-es) produced by Lactobacillus fermentum L23 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus L60 on L. monocytogenes
and other listerial species isolated from food and clinical samples. The presence of Listeria spp. in raw milk was evaluated in
814 samples from 238 cows. The listerial prevalence in cattle was 0.84% and the isolates were identified as L. innocua (LI1)
and L. welshimeri (LW1). A total of 29 listerial strains were used as indicator microorganisms to evaluate the antimicrobial
activity of BLIS-es L23 and L60. Bioactive metabolites produced by these lactobacilli strains were able to inhibit the listerial
growth. This biological activity was mainly attributed to the BLIS-es L23 and L60 which, even at low concentration, were
active on 100% of listerial strains. This study reveals a strong potential for the biotechnological use of these bacteriocin
producing lactobacilli as a biostrategy against Listeria spp.
Keywords: Antilisterial Activity; Bacteriocins; Lactobacillus spp.; Listeria monocytogenes; Raw Cow Milk.
Research Interests:
Background: Voriconazole has been available in China for 10 years. In this time, there has been clinical studies published on the Chinese population. Objective: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review for both English and Chinese... more
Background: Voriconazole has been available in China for 10 years. In this time, there has been clinical studies published
on the Chinese population.
Objective: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review for both English and Chinese literature on the clinical efficacy
and safety of voriconazole versus caspofungin in treating Chinese patients with invasive fungal infection (IFI).
Methods: Both English and Chinese terms of “voriconazole” and “infection” were searched accordingly for clinical studies
conducted on populations in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in several databases. Identified abstracts were filtered
independently by two researchers to select eligible studies. A third researcher was consulted for any disagreement. Jadad
scale and modified Newcastle-Ottawa tool were used to assess the study quality of the selected studies.
Results: Two RCTs and 10 retrospective observational studies were included in the systematic review. Conflicting trends
were reported on effective treatment rate in the RCTs. 8 observational studies demonstrated that voriconazole had similar or
higher effective treatment rate than caspofungin. In terms of mortality, a lower rate was generally observed among patients
treated with voriconazole than those who were treated with caspofungin (0 to 26% vs. 14.3 to 50%) in 5 of the 6 studies
that reported mortality rates.
Conclusion: The trend of higher effective treatment rates and lower mortality rates of voriconazole compared to caspofungin
were observed among Chinese patients with IFI. However, given the small sample size, low study quality, different
definitions of efficacy and presence of varied underlying comorbidities in the reviewed studies, the results need to be
interpreted with caution.
Keywords: Invasive Fungal Infection; China; Voriconazole; Caspofungin; Systematic Literature Review.
on the Chinese population.
Objective: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review for both English and Chinese literature on the clinical efficacy
and safety of voriconazole versus caspofungin in treating Chinese patients with invasive fungal infection (IFI).
Methods: Both English and Chinese terms of “voriconazole” and “infection” were searched accordingly for clinical studies
conducted on populations in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in several databases. Identified abstracts were filtered
independently by two researchers to select eligible studies. A third researcher was consulted for any disagreement. Jadad
scale and modified Newcastle-Ottawa tool were used to assess the study quality of the selected studies.
Results: Two RCTs and 10 retrospective observational studies were included in the systematic review. Conflicting trends
were reported on effective treatment rate in the RCTs. 8 observational studies demonstrated that voriconazole had similar or
higher effective treatment rate than caspofungin. In terms of mortality, a lower rate was generally observed among patients
treated with voriconazole than those who were treated with caspofungin (0 to 26% vs. 14.3 to 50%) in 5 of the 6 studies
that reported mortality rates.
Conclusion: The trend of higher effective treatment rates and lower mortality rates of voriconazole compared to caspofungin
were observed among Chinese patients with IFI. However, given the small sample size, low study quality, different
definitions of efficacy and presence of varied underlying comorbidities in the reviewed studies, the results need to be
interpreted with caution.
Keywords: Invasive Fungal Infection; China; Voriconazole; Caspofungin; Systematic Literature Review.
Research Interests:
Fermentation is the oldest method of milk preservation. Dahi is considered the oldest Indian fermented milk product and is equivalent to western yoghurt obtained by lactic fermentation through the action of single or mixed strains of... more
Fermentation is the oldest method of milk preservation. Dahi
is considered the oldest Indian fermented milk product and is
equivalent to western yoghurt obtained by lactic fermentation
through the action of single or mixed strains of lactic acid bacteria
or by lactic fermentation accompanied by alcoholic fermentation
by yeast. Traditionally dahi was prepared at home and it is one of
the fastest growing milk product segments in India.
is considered the oldest Indian fermented milk product and is
equivalent to western yoghurt obtained by lactic fermentation
through the action of single or mixed strains of lactic acid bacteria
or by lactic fermentation accompanied by alcoholic fermentation
by yeast. Traditionally dahi was prepared at home and it is one of
the fastest growing milk product segments in India.
Research Interests:
Toxoplasma gondii infection is a zoonotic protozoan infection that affects warm-blooded animals, including humans. Congenital toxoplasmosis occurs when unborn and developing foetus becomes infected with T. gondii through the placenta in... more
Toxoplasma gondii infection is a zoonotic protozoan infection that affects warm-blooded animals, including humans. Congenital
toxoplasmosis occurs when unborn and developing foetus becomes infected with T. gondii through the placenta in utero.
The study sought to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection among pregnant women seeking antenatal care at
the Manhyia District Hospital, Kumasi. Signed or thumb printed consent form, structured questionnaires, as well as, about
3mls of venous blood was taken from 110 pregnant women for the study. Analysis of blood sera using commercial ELISA
kit (Teco Diagnostics, 1268 N, Lakeview Ave., Anaheim, CA 92807, USA) showed that, 71.8% (79/110) were seropositive
for T. gondii IgG antibodies whiles 39.1% (43/110) were seropositive for T. gondii IgM antibodies.
toxoplasmosis occurs when unborn and developing foetus becomes infected with T. gondii through the placenta in utero.
The study sought to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection among pregnant women seeking antenatal care at
the Manhyia District Hospital, Kumasi. Signed or thumb printed consent form, structured questionnaires, as well as, about
3mls of venous blood was taken from 110 pregnant women for the study. Analysis of blood sera using commercial ELISA
kit (Teco Diagnostics, 1268 N, Lakeview Ave., Anaheim, CA 92807, USA) showed that, 71.8% (79/110) were seropositive
for T. gondii IgG antibodies whiles 39.1% (43/110) were seropositive for T. gondii IgM antibodies.
Research Interests:
Chromoblastomycosis is a rare, chronic, fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues caused by dematiaceous (black) fungi living as saprophytes on plants or vegetable debris in the soil. The lesions are located mainly at the... more
Chromoblastomycosis is a rare, chronic, fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues caused by dematiaceous (black) fungi living as saprophytes on plants or vegetable debris in the soil. The lesions are located mainly at the extremities.
To the best of our knowledge, wehere in report a first case of chromoblastomycos is from Morocco with an atypical localization.
To the best of our knowledge, wehere in report a first case of chromoblastomycos is from Morocco with an atypical localization.
Research Interests:
Evidence is emerging that intravenous administration of high-doses of vitamin C may have beneficial effect and can be used as adjuvant therapy of severe sepsis and septic shock. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of early... more
Evidence is emerging that intravenous administration of high-doses of vitamin C may have beneficial effect and can be used as adjuvant therapy of severe sepsis and septic shock. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of early intravenous high doses of vitamin C as adjuvant treatment in patients with septic shock. 100 patients with septic shock were enrolled, randomized into 2 groups. Early vitamin C (EVC) group (n=50) received intravenous 1.5 gm vitamin C (ascorbic acid) every 6 hours in the first 24 hours after admission until ICU discharge plus conventional sepsis treatment. Other 50 patients were
enrolled as a control. The primary outcomes were the need for organ supportive measures and length of ICU stay. There were no differences in duration on MV (p= 0.187), need for RRT (p=0.412), or ICU mortality (p=0.138). The mean number of days on vasopressor was significantly less in EVC group than in control group (2.30 Vs 6.50 days, p=0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in ICU stay between the two groups (p=0.04). Early vitamin C in septic shock may resolve the vasopressor-dependent septic shock rapidly with no benefit on mortality.
enrolled as a control. The primary outcomes were the need for organ supportive measures and length of ICU stay. There were no differences in duration on MV (p= 0.187), need for RRT (p=0.412), or ICU mortality (p=0.138). The mean number of days on vasopressor was significantly less in EVC group than in control group (2.30 Vs 6.50 days, p=0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in ICU stay between the two groups (p=0.04). Early vitamin C in septic shock may resolve the vasopressor-dependent septic shock rapidly with no benefit on mortality.
Research Interests:
The classification of annular centrifugal erythemas can be confusing and has always been one of the most discussed issues in medicine. We report a case of 58 years old woman who had a 3 –days post vaginal-plastic surgery. The patient... more
The classification of annular centrifugal erythemas can be confusing and has always been one of the most discussed issues in medicine. We report a case of 58 years old woman who had a 3 –days post vaginal-plastic surgery. The patient presented non- pruritic annular skin eruptions on the abdomen and extremities, spreading gradually and forming large rings. She was treated during this period at the gynecologist department and later was admitted to a tertiary care hospital with the diagnosis "enoxaparin-sodium drug" reaction. The skin lesion was not associated with the drug allergy reaction. Urino–culture grew Proteus Mirabilis, Vulgaris. Presence of Proteus mirabilis and annular centrifugal erythema eruption lesions, suggests a pathogenetic effect of the gram-negative bacterium on the skin lesion. Considering the anamnesis and the clinical manifestation, the patient was treated with antibiotic therapy, corticosteroid therapy, anti-histaminic and local corticosteroid cream. To our knowledge, no other case of EAC associated with Proteus mirabilis infection has been published.
Research Interests:
C. albicans has been shown to be associated with denture-related stomatitis. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus joazeiro Martius (HEZJM) and ketoconazole. Ninety specimens were used,... more
C. albicans has been shown to be associated with denture-related stomatitis. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal
effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus joazeiro Martius (HEZJM) and ketoconazole. Ninety specimens were used,
10 in each group: GROUP I – 1% of the polymer replaced by HEZJM; GROUP II – 2% of the polymer replaced by
HEZJM; GROUP III – 1% HEZJM added to the polymer; GROUP IV – 2% HEZJM added to the polymer; GROUP
V - control group; GROUP VI – Polymer replaced by 1% ketoconazole; GROUP VII – polymer replaced by 2% ketoconazole;
GROUP VIII – 1% ketoconazole added to the polymer; GROUP IX – 2% ketoconazole added to the polymer. The
specimens were placed on plates containing Sabouraud agar with Candida albicans. Plates were then kept in a bacteriological
incubator at a temperature of 37°C for 48 hours. In groups I and II, specimens were not colonized. In groups III and IV,
there was no inhibition zone or adherence of colonies. In group V, the surfaces of five of the ten specimens were colonized.
In group VI, all specimens showed fungi static action. Group VII presented three specimens that formed halos of inhibition
and four specimens that altered the growth pattern of the colonies. Group VIII altered the growth pattern of two specimens.
In group IX, colonization of the specimens did not occur. The authors concluded that in the tested specimens there
was no colonization of the surface, and replacing the polymer with 2% ketoconazole showed the best results.
effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus joazeiro Martius (HEZJM) and ketoconazole. Ninety specimens were used,
10 in each group: GROUP I – 1% of the polymer replaced by HEZJM; GROUP II – 2% of the polymer replaced by
HEZJM; GROUP III – 1% HEZJM added to the polymer; GROUP IV – 2% HEZJM added to the polymer; GROUP
V - control group; GROUP VI – Polymer replaced by 1% ketoconazole; GROUP VII – polymer replaced by 2% ketoconazole;
GROUP VIII – 1% ketoconazole added to the polymer; GROUP IX – 2% ketoconazole added to the polymer. The
specimens were placed on plates containing Sabouraud agar with Candida albicans. Plates were then kept in a bacteriological
incubator at a temperature of 37°C for 48 hours. In groups I and II, specimens were not colonized. In groups III and IV,
there was no inhibition zone or adherence of colonies. In group V, the surfaces of five of the ten specimens were colonized.
In group VI, all specimens showed fungi static action. Group VII presented three specimens that formed halos of inhibition
and four specimens that altered the growth pattern of the colonies. Group VIII altered the growth pattern of two specimens.
In group IX, colonization of the specimens did not occur. The authors concluded that in the tested specimens there
was no colonization of the surface, and replacing the polymer with 2% ketoconazole showed the best results.
Research Interests:
Background: Lymphocytes form part of blood cells involve in the fight against infection in the immune system. These cells are mostly implicated in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS. Objective: This study sought to determine the lymphocyte... more
Background: Lymphocytes form part of blood cells involve in the fight against infection in the immune system. These cells are mostly implicated in the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS.
Objective: This study sought to determine the lymphocyte differentials in seropositive HIV patients on HAART and HAART naïve.
Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based, case control study conducted among 150 participants. HIV patients’ on HAART (n=50) and HAART naïve HIV (n=50) patients and the control group (n=50) was HIV Seronegative individuals. Venous blood was drawn from each of the participant into K3 EDTA tubes. Becton Dickinson (BD) FACS Count
system (Becton, Dickinson and Company, California, USA) was used to determine the lymphocyte differentials (CD3, CD4 and CD8).
Results: The study observed an average CD3 of 1867 ± 99.72 cells/mm3
, 1639 ± 96.56 cells/mm3 and 1755 ± 139.3 cells/mm3
in the control, on HAART and HAART naïve groups respectively, CD4 of 1084 ± 55.40 cells/mm3 , 498.5 ± 43.85 cells/mm3, and 506.7 ± 60.58 cells/mm3 in the control, on HAART and HAART naïve groups respectively and CD8 of 662.0 ± 45.84 cells/mm3 , 1091 ± 74.81 cells/mm3 and 1210 ± 125.3 cells/mm3 in the control, on HAART and HAART naïve groups respectively.
Conclusion: The pathogenic effect of HIV virus resulted in significantly low mean levels of CD4, CD8, CD4/CD3 and CD4/CD8 ratio among on HAART and HAART naïve patients compared to control group.
Objective: This study sought to determine the lymphocyte differentials in seropositive HIV patients on HAART and HAART naïve.
Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based, case control study conducted among 150 participants. HIV patients’ on HAART (n=50) and HAART naïve HIV (n=50) patients and the control group (n=50) was HIV Seronegative individuals. Venous blood was drawn from each of the participant into K3 EDTA tubes. Becton Dickinson (BD) FACS Count
system (Becton, Dickinson and Company, California, USA) was used to determine the lymphocyte differentials (CD3, CD4 and CD8).
Results: The study observed an average CD3 of 1867 ± 99.72 cells/mm3
, 1639 ± 96.56 cells/mm3 and 1755 ± 139.3 cells/mm3
in the control, on HAART and HAART naïve groups respectively, CD4 of 1084 ± 55.40 cells/mm3 , 498.5 ± 43.85 cells/mm3, and 506.7 ± 60.58 cells/mm3 in the control, on HAART and HAART naïve groups respectively and CD8 of 662.0 ± 45.84 cells/mm3 , 1091 ± 74.81 cells/mm3 and 1210 ± 125.3 cells/mm3 in the control, on HAART and HAART naïve groups respectively.
Conclusion: The pathogenic effect of HIV virus resulted in significantly low mean levels of CD4, CD8, CD4/CD3 and CD4/CD8 ratio among on HAART and HAART naïve patients compared to control group.
Research Interests:
Stresses caused by many factors including pathogenic bacteria result in inflamatory diseases and they are considered as a major source of skin cancers and premature ageing. Plants growing in semi-arid environments and deserts present the... more
Stresses caused by many factors including pathogenic bacteria result in inflamatory diseases and they are considered as a major source of skin cancers and premature ageing. Plants growing in semi-arid environments and deserts present the astonishing capacity to survive extreme conditions of drought and high temperatures. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of extracts from two endemic plants from Saudi Arabia, namly C. myrrha and Rhamnus frangula, on the immune response of human keratinocyte cell lines (Ha-CaT).