Day 1 :
Keynote Forum
Steven R Blanke
University of Illinois, USA
Keynote: Extending the Gut-Brain Axis: The Curious Case of Helicobacter pylori
Time : 9.30AM
Biography:
Awards RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS 2015 Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology 2014 Faculty Excellence Award (one award given per year within the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Illinois). 2004 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship at the Associate Professor Level - University of Houston (one university award per year at each academic rank). 2002 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship at the Assistant Professor Level - University of Houston (one university award per year at each academic rank). 1999 Young Investigator Award, 10th International Meeting Campylobacter & Helicobacter. 1997 Natural Science and Mathematics Alumni Association Award. 1996 Oakridge Junior Faculty Award for Life Sciences Research. 1981 NSF Undergraduate Research Award. TEACHING AWARDS AND RECOGNITION 2010, 2013 Cited as a Teacher ranked as outstanding by their students for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Life Sciences and College of Medicine Courses. 2008, 2009 Cited as a Teacher ranked as excellent by their students for Molecular and 2011, 2012 Cellular Biology/Life Sciences and College of Medicine Courses. 1999 Teaching Excellence Award, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. 1998-1999 University of Houston Enron Award for Excellence in Teaching at the University level. RECENT LECTURESHIPS, MEETING CHAIRS, LEADERSHIP POSITIONS 2015 Vice-Chair, Gordon Conference on Chemical & Biological Terrorism Defense, Ventura, CA, March 2015. 2013 Chair, Bacteria-Host Interactions (2013) 2013 International Conference on Bacillus anthracis, B. cereus, and B. thuringiensis, Victoria, Canada, September 2, 2013. 2013-2014 Chair, Division B (Microbial Pathogens) of ASM. 2013 Discussion Leader/Session Chair, Organizing Committee, 2013 Gordon Conference on Chemical & Biological Terrorism Defense, Ventura, CA, March 10-15, 2013. 2012-2013 Chair Elect, Division B (Microbial Pathogens) of ASM, 2012-2013. 2011 Session Chair, Organizing Committee, 2011 International Conference on Campylobacter, Helicobacter, and Related Organisms, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, August 28 – September 1, 2011. 2011 Keynote Speaker, 23rd Annual Buffalo Conference on Microbial Pathogenesis – Witebsky Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology (2011) Of Persistence, Cancer, and Asthma: The Curious Case of Helicobacter pylori, Buffalo, NY, April 29, 2011. 2011 Organizing Committee, and Discussion Leader/Session Chair, 2011 Gordon Conference on Chemical & Biological Terrorism Defense, Ventura, CA, March 20-25, 2011.
Abstract:
There is increasing recognition that localized microbe-host interactions inrnhumans can influence the physiology and function of distal tissue and organrnsystems in a manner that can have profound impact on human health andrndisease. For example, human gut microbiota communicate with the centralrnnervous system (CNS) via the neural, endocrine and/or immune systems,rnthereby influencing brain function. Cytokines from the peripheral immune systemrninteract with the central nervous system (CNS) via active transport across thernblood brain barrier as well as direct entry via the circumventricular organs. Here,rnwe evaluated the hypothesis that chronic gastric infection with the humanrnpathogenic bacterium Helicobacter pylori (Hp) is causal for elevated systemicrninflammation and neuro-inflammation. Chronic Hp infection is characterized byrnsustained inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is highly associated withrnprogression to gastric ulcer disease or gastric cancer in approximately 10% andrn2% of infected individuals, respectively. Our studies employing a Sprague-rnDawley rat model for chronic Hp infection revealed sustained gastricrninflammation and tissue damage. What is more, Hp-infected rats demonstratedrnelevated inflammation with the bloodstream and CNS, with activated microgliarnand elevated TNF-α detected in the brain of the infected animals. The causalrnrelationship between gastric Hp infection and brain sequelae was supported byrnthe loss of elevated systemic and CNS inflammation upon clearance of Hprn infections following antibiotic administration. Because approximately half thernworld’s population is infected with Hp, these results have implications for thernimpact of microbes on cognition and behavior during human brain development.
Keynote Forum
George Mendz
The University of Notre Dame Australia, Australia
Keynote: The vaginal microbiome during pregnancy
Time : 10.00AM
Biography:
Professor George L. Mendz has an MSc from the University of Barcelona (Spain), and a PhD from the University of NSW. He has been Lecturer at the College of Natural Sciences, the University of Puerto Rico (San Juan); Research Associate at the School of Chemistry and the Department of Biochemistry, the University of Sydney; ARC Senior Research Fellow and Associate Professor at the School of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, the University of NSW; Associate Professor at the Department of Bacteriology, the University of Bordeaux II; and Associate Professor at the School of Medical Sciences, the University of NSW.
Abstract:
Background: In pregnancy, the mother’s anatomy, physiology and immune function are dynamically altered to accommodate the developing infant. Current understanding supports the view that the indigenous microbiota of the mother’s genital tract has a pivotal role in shaping the host environment.rnPreterm birth: In 2010, there were about 15 million of preterm births in the world, defined as delivery before 37 weeks gestation. Babies born prematurely have increased risk of short and long-term complications, mainly owing to the immaturity of multiple organ systems and neurodevelopmental disorders. There is overwhelming evidence to implicate genital infections in up to 40% of preterm birth cases.rnAccess to the intra-amniotic cavity is difficult, and evidence supports the hypothesis that a major path of invasion is the ascending of microorganisms from the vagina to the uterus. The changes induced in the vaginal microbial populations of pregnant women in health and disease are the subject of intense investigations to establish the type and rate of changes in this microflora during pregnancy, as well as to elucidate the changes in the microbiome resulting from the presence of pathogens.rnThe human microbiome: Cultivation-independent studies of the human microbiota performed using new generation sequencing and applying state-of-the-art biostatistical tools, have revealed the presence of trillions of microorganisms in various body microhabitats, which have a great diversity of microbial species organised in different population structures, and include a large number of dynamic interactions between microbes and with the host. In particular, the vaginal microbiome has a role in human development, physiology and immunity. rnThe vaginal microbiome: The results of many studies of the vaginal microbiota of pregnant and non-pregnant women indicate a relationship with the racial background of the woman. The data show the important role Lactobacillus bacteria have in the health of this organ, as well as the presence of vaginotypes characterised by bacterial profiles in which a single taxon dominates the population. However, modeling disease as the result of a decrease in the percentage of lactobacilli and concomitant overgrowth by other bacterial species has turned out to be too simplistic to explain the complexity, diversity and balance of the bacterial ecosystem of the vagina.rnCurrent studies of the vaginal microbiome of pregnant women can be grouped in three types:rn(1) cross-sectional studies provide snapshots of the structure of bacterial communities in the vagina at specific moments during pregnancy; rn(2) longitudinal studies address the temporal changes in this microbiome during pregnancy; andrn(3) reviews cover a broad range of issues from microbial pathogenic mechanisms to clinical practice. rnWork on the vaginal microbiome has made an invaluable contribution to understanding preterm birth; nonetheless, basic questions such as the structure of vaginal bacterial communities in women giving birth preterm or at term, or the presence/abundance of specific taxa in these two populations and their relations to infection have been given contradictory answers and remain to be elucidated.rn
Keynote Forum
Anna Goc
Dr. Rath Research Institute BV, USA
Keynote: New Non-synthetic Antibacterial Agents Challenging the Active and Persistent Forms of Borrelia ssp.
Time : 10.30AM
Biography:
Dr. Goc obtained her M.S. and Ph.D. from the Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland. She conducted her postdoctoral training at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, and the University of Georgia, Athens, GA. She also worked as a Research Biologist at the VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA. Currently, as a Head of Infectious Diseases Division at Dr. Rath Research Institute, Santa Clara CA, she leads a Lyme disease project. Dr. Goc has published over 30 peer-reviewed publications, two book chapters, and has presented her research at numerous national and international scientific meetings. She is also an active member on one editorial board and the recipient of several national and international awards.
Abstract:
Lyme borreliosis is a tick-borne bacterial infection caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. It has become a major public health concern for humans and animals worldwide. The primary treatment is based on the administration of antibiotics. However, relapse often occurs when such treatment is withdrawn. One of possible explanations for this clinical observation is the ability of Borrelia sp. to adapt different persistent forms. Thus, there is a continuous search for new compounds that would be effective not only against spirochetes but also these persisters. Naturally occurring agents signify a growing theme in antimicrobial defense. Often they represent a starting point for the development of novel treatment approaches and/or serve as a base for their modified alternatives as well. However, little is known about their anti-borreliaea efficacy. Thus, 50 non-synthetic agents such as plant-derived active compounds and plant extracts were tested in this study for their in vitro effectiveness against active and latent forms of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (predominant in the USA) and Borrelia garinii (predominant in Eurasia). From that screening, several new substances have been identified. These, described in this work, agents showed to have significant effects against both active and persistent forms of tested Borrelia sp. Moreover, enhanced reciprocal cooperation with major antibiotics currently prescribed for Lyme disease was observed. This study reveals their potential to combat these bacteria. The depictions here reported are part of ongoing preclinical development plan that could bring them to clinical trials in the near future as well.
- Track 1: Bacterial Morphology and Metabolism
Track 2: Bacterial Clinical Studies
Track 4: Emerging Infectious Diseases
Track 5: Bacterial Pathogenesis
Track 10: Microbial Genomics
Track 11: Industrial and Applied Bacteriology
Chair
George L. Mendz
University of Notre Dame Australia Australia
Co-Chair
Steven Blanke
University of Illinois, USA
Session Introduction
Steven R Blanke
University of Illinois USA
Title: Extending the Gut-Brain Axis: The Curious Case of Helicobacter pylori
Time : 9:30-10:00
Biography:
Awards RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS 2015 Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology 2014 Faculty Excellence Award (one award given per year within the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Illinois). 2004 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship at the Associate Professor Level - University of Houston (one university award per year at each academic rank). 2002 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship at the Assistant Professor Level - University of Houston (one university award per year at each academic rank). 1999 Young Investigator Award, 10th International Meeting Campylobacter & Helicobacter. 1997 Natural Science and Mathematics Alumni Association Award. 1996 Oakridge Junior Faculty Award for Life Sciences Research. 1981 NSF Undergraduate Research Award. TEACHING AWARDS AND RECOGNITION 2010, 2013 Cited as a Teacher ranked as outstanding by their students for Molecular and Cellular Biology/Life Sciences and College of Medicine Courses. 2008, 2009 Cited as a Teacher ranked as excellent by their students for Molecular and 2011, 2012 Cellular Biology/Life Sciences and College of Medicine Courses. 1999 Teaching Excellence Award, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. 1998-1999 University of Houston Enron Award for Excellence in Teaching at the University level. RECENT LECTURESHIPS, MEETING CHAIRS, LEADERSHIP POSITIONS 2015 Vice-Chair, Gordon Conference on Chemical & Biological Terrorism Defense, Ventura, CA, March 2015. 2013 Chair, Bacteria-Host Interactions (2013) 2013 International Conference on Bacillus anthracis, B. cereus, and B. thuringiensis, Victoria, Canada, September 2, 2013. 2013-2014 Chair, Division B (Microbial Pathogens) of ASM. 2013 Discussion Leader/Session Chair, Organizing Committee, 2013 Gordon Conference on Chemical & Biological Terrorism Defense, Ventura, CA, March 10-15, 2013. 2012-2013 Chair Elect, Division B (Microbial Pathogens) of ASM, 2012-2013. 2011 Session Chair, Organizing Committee, 2011 International Conference on Campylobacter, Helicobacter, and Related Organisms, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, August 28 – September 1, 2011. 2011 Keynote Speaker, 23rd Annual Buffalo Conference on Microbial Pathogenesis – Witebsky Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology (2011) Of Persistence, Cancer, and Asthma: The Curious Case of Helicobacter pylori, Buffalo, NY, April 29, 2011. 2011 Organizing Committee, and Discussion Leader/Session Chair, 2011 Gordon Conference on Chemical & Biological Terrorism Defense, Ventura, CA, March 20-25, 2011.
Abstract:
There is increasing recognition that localized microbe-host interactions in humans can influence the physiology and function of distal tissue and organ systems in a manner that can have profound impact on human health and disease. For example, human gut microbiota communicate with the central nervous system (CNS) via the neural, endocrine and/or immune systems, thereby influencing brain function. Cytokines from the peripheral immune system interact with the central nervous system (CNS) via active transport across the blood brain barrier as well as direct entry via the circumventricular organs. Here, we evaluated the hypothesis that chronic gastric infection with the human pathogenic bacterium Helicobacter pylori (Hp) is causal for elevated systemic inflammation and neuro-inflammation. Chronic Hp infection is characterized by sustained inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is highly associated with progression to gastric ulcer disease or gastric cancer in approximately 10% and 2% of infected individuals, respectively. Our studies employing a Sprague- Dawley rat model for chronic Hp infection revealed sustained gastric inflammation and tissue damage. What is more, Hp-infected rats demonstrated elevated inflammation with the bloodstream and CNS, with activated microglia and elevated TNF-α detected in the brain of the infected animals. The causal relationship between gastric Hp infection and brain sequelae was supported by the loss of elevated systemic and CNS inflammation upon clearance of Hp infections following antibiotic administration. Because approximately half the world’s population is infected with Hp, these results have implications for the impact of microbes on cognition and behavior during human brain development. *Presenting author Presenting author
George Mendz
The University of Notre Dame Australia, Australia
Title: The vaginal microbiome during pregnancy
Biography:
Professor George L. Mendz has an MSc from the University of Barcelona (Spain), and a PhD from the University of NSW. He has been Lecturer at the College of Natural Sciences, the University of Puerto Rico (San Juan); Research Associate at the School of Chemistry and the Department of Biochemistry, the University of Sydney; ARC Senior Research Fellow and Associate Professor at the School of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, the University of NSW; Associate Professor at the Department of Bacteriology, the University of Bordeaux II; and Associate Professor at the School of Medical Sciences, the University of NSW.
Abstract:
Background: In pregnancy, the mother’s anatomy, physiology and immune function are dynamically altered to accommodate the developing infant. Current understanding supports the view that the indigenous microbiota of the mother’s genital tract has a pivotal role in shaping the host environment. Preterm birth: In 2010, there were about 15 million of preterm births in the world, defined as delivery before 37 weeks gestation. Babies born prematurely have increased risk of short and long-term complications, mainly owing to the immaturity of multiple organ systems and neurodevelopmental disorders. There is overwhelming evidence to implicate genital infections in up to 40% of preterm birth cases. Access to the intra-amniotic cavity is difficult, and evidence supports the hypothesis that a major path of invasion is the ascending of microorganisms from the vagina to the uterus. The changes induced in the vaginal microbial populations of pregnant women in health and disease are the subject of intense investigations to establish the type and rate of changes in this microflora during pregnancy, as well as to elucidate the changes in the microbiome resulting from the presence of pathogens. The human microbiome: Cultivation-independent studies of the human microbiota performed using new generation sequencing and applying state-of-the-art biostatistical tools, have revealed the presence of trillions of microorganisms in various body microhabitats, which have a great diversity of microbial species organised in different population structures, and include a large number of dynamic interactions between microbes and with the host. In particular, the vaginal microbiome has a role in human development, physiology and immunity. The vaginal microbiome: The results of many studies of the vaginal microbiota of pregnant and non-pregnant women indicate a relationship with the racial background of the woman. The data show the important role Lactobacillus bacteria have in the health of this organ, as well as the presence of vaginotypes characterised by bacterial profiles in which a single taxon dominates the population. However, modeling disease as the result of a decrease in the percentage of lactobacilli and concomitant overgrowth by other bacterial species has turned out to be too simplistic to explain the complexity, diversity and balance of the bacterial ecosystem of the vagina. Current studies of the vaginal microbiome of pregnant women can be grouped in three types: (1) cross-sectional studies provide snapshots of the structure of bacterial communities in the vagina at specific moments during pregnancy; (2) longitudinal studies address the temporal changes in this microbiome during pregnancy; and (3) reviews cover a broad range of issues from microbial pathogenic mechanisms to clinical practice. Work on the vaginal microbiome has made an invaluable contribution to understanding preterm birth; nonetheless, basic questions such as the structure of vaginal bacterial communities in women giving birth preterm or at term, or the presence/abundance of specific taxa in these two populations and their relations to infection have been given contradictory answers and remain to be elucidated.
Anna Goc
Dr. Rath Research Institute BV, USA
Title: New Non-synthetic Antibacterial Agents Challenging the Active and Persistent Forms of Borrelia ssp.
Biography:
Dr. Goc obtained her M.S. and Ph.D. from the Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland. She conducted her postdoctoral training at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, and the University of Georgia, Athens, GA. She also worked as a Research Biologist at the VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA. Currently, as a Head of Infectious Diseases Division at Dr. Rath Research Institute, Santa Clara CA, she leads a Lyme disease project. Dr. Goc has published over 30 peer-reviewed publications, two book chapters, and has presented her research at numerous national and international scientific meetings. She is also an active member on one editorial board and the recipient of several national and international awards.
Abstract:
Lyme borreliosis is a tick-borne bacterial infection caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. It has become a major public health concern for humans and animals worldwide. The primary treatment is based on the administration of antibiotics. However, relapse often occurs when such treatment is withdrawn. One of possible explanations for this clinical observation is the ability of Borrelia sp. to adapt different persistent forms. Thus, there is a continuous search for new compounds that would be effective not only against spirochetes but also these persisters. Naturally occurring agents signify a growing theme in antimicrobial defense. Often they represent a starting point for the development of novel treatment approaches and/or serve as a base for their modified alternatives as well. However, little is known about their anti-borreliaea efficacy. Thus, 50 non-synthetic agents such as plant-derived active compounds and plant extracts were tested in this study for their in vitro effectiveness against active and latent forms of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (predominant in the USA) and Borrelia garinii (predominant in Eurasia). From that screening, several new substances have been identified. These, described in this work, agents showed to have significant effects against both active and persistent forms of tested Borrelia sp. Moreover, enhanced reciprocal cooperation with major antibiotics currently prescribed for Lyme disease was observed. This study reveals their potential to combat these bacteria. The depictions here reported are part of ongoing preclinical development plan that could bring them to clinical trials in the near future as well.
Ling Zhan
University of California, USA
Title: Mutans Streptococci Genomic Sequencing: Potential applications for precision medicine to prevent tooth decay
Biography:
Dr. Zhan is associate professor in the Division of Pediatric Dentistry at University of California, San Francicisco. She completed her dental training and PhD at the West China University of Medical Sciences and her pediatric dental residency training at UCSF. She is a member of the International and American Associations for Dental Research, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Her research focuses on microbiological and translational aspects of prevention of tooth decay in children, aiming to establish an individualized oral health care model for children, or precision pediatric dentistry.
Abstract:
Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic infectious disease in children. Mutans streptococci (MS) is one of the major families of cariogenic bacteria. MS virulence is critical in determining its ability to cause tooth decay. We hypothesize that the virulence factors of MS are genetically determined. Therefore, we conducted a study to identify potential virulence genes in MS by comparing full-genome sequences of mutans streptococci isolates from caries-free children versus children with severe early childhood caries. This study has identified several novel biosynthetic gene clusters that may play a significant role in regulating MS colonization and competition in oral biofilm and their cariogenicity. We are further studying the function of these genes and gene products. These findings can provide a scientific basis for developing genetic identification tools for caries risk-assessment and targeted caries prevention as a part of precision medicine.
Yan-Yeung Luk
Syracuse University, USA
Title: Hydrocarbon-omics of Bacterial Appendages for Controlling Their Pathogenic Activities
Biography:
Yan-Yeung Luk has completed his PhD at The University of Chicago, and postdoctoral studies from University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is the founder of LifeUnit LLC, a startup company focused on chemical control bacterial activities. He has published more than 30 papers in peer-reviewed journals and has been serving as a reviewer for NSF, and ACS journals. He is also a member on the scientific advisory broad of Orthobond INC.
Abstract:
Bacterial appendages, pili protein, have been explored for developing vaccines against infectious diseases, but without an eventual success. Here, we present a chemical approach of controlling the newly discovered signaling events that initiated by ligand binding to pili proteins on bacterial surfaces. We first demonstrate that a specific class of molecules that control a wide range of pathogenic activities of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the characteristics of disrupting cell signaling of these activities, supporting the notion of a drug development. Second, we demonstrate the specific covalent coupling between a designed ligand molecule and the pili protein as a validation of the receptor protein identity. We will discuss the chemical structural space that validates a hydrocarbon-omic for controlling different species and different strains within a species of microbes.
Dinesh Kumar
SRM University, India
Title: Quality of life among leprosy affected persons – A study in a rural block in Tamil Nadu, India
Biography:
Dr. G. Dinesh Kumarhas completed his M.B.B.S from Meenakshi University, Kancheepuram folllowed by M.D in COMMUNITY MEDICINE at SRM UNIVERSITY, TAMIL NADU INDIA I am presently working as Assistant Professor in Dept. of Community Medicine, SRM UNIVERSITY, INDIA. I have a keen in interest in Epiedemiology and research.
Abstract:
Background: Among communicable diseases, leprosy remains a leading cause of peripheral neuropathy and disability in the world, inspite of the extensive efforts to reduce the disease burden.Objectives: To estimate the quality of life and the factors influencing quality of life among people affected by leprosy in leprosy settlements of Chengalpet taluk. Methods: Community based cross sectional study was conducted at leprosy settlements of Chengalpet taluk. A total of 247 leprosy affected persons participated in the study. House to house interview was conducted using a predesigned, pre tested questionnaire. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL- BREF. Results: The Mean domain scores of the various domains were computed and it was , physical domain 20.55±3.9, psychological domain 16.16±2.9, social relationship domain 8.16±2.08 and environment domain was 24.34±3.9 The overall quality of life score was calculated and was found to be 69.21±9.9. Quality of life scores among males was more than that of the females in the various domains, although no statistical significance was observed. On assessing the overall quality of life it was found that age, educational status, income, occupation, marital status, disease duration and the disability had significance on the quality of life leprosy affected persons Conclusion: The socio demographic variables like young age, education, having an occupation and being married had positive influence on the overall quality of life domain. Care after cure should be an integral component in leprosy.
Biography:
Assist Prof/ Dr. Maysaa has completed her M.Sc. and PhD from Al Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq and was one of academic staff members of Biotechnology department and group leader of medical biotechnology research. She worked on molecular analysis of infectious disease, some of the virulence factors of the pathogens, and appling some of bacterial cell components as antitumor active compounds. In 2012 she conducted her postdoctoral training at Nanomedicine-labortory of Immunology and Molecular Biomedical Research (N-LIMBR), at Deakin University, Australia. Recently join the SRF-IIE (US) fellowship at the same institute (N-LIMBR) as academic visitor and her major field of interest are nanomedicine based drug delivery systems for therapy and diagnosis.
Abstract:
A total of 53 sputum samples were collected from patients suffering from respiratory tract infections attending different hospitals of Baghdad and Al-Anbar (Ramadi) governorates. From these samples only fifty bacterial isolates were obtained and identified. According to the morphological and cultural characteristics results showed that 14 bacterial isolates (28%) were belong to Streptocoocus spp., 26 bacterial isolates (52%) were belong to Staphylococcus spp., four bacterial isolates (8%) were pseudomonas spp., and six isolates (12%) were identified as Klebsiella spp. Then further steps have been proceeded for identification Streptocoocus isolates species by biochemical tests, API 20 STEP system and blood hemolysis patterns. Results of full identification showed that only three isolates (21.4%) were identified as Streptococcus pneumoniae, five isolates (35.7%) were Streptococcus pyogenes, two isolates (14.3%) were Streptococcus mutans, two isolates (14.3%) were Streptococcus sangarius, one isolate (7.1%) was Streptococcus fecalis, and one isolate (7.1%) was Streptococcus agalacticae. Results of the antimicrobial susceptibility showed that these isolates gave different patterns of sensitivity to different antibiotics. For molecular diagnosis of these S. pneumoniae isolates and to study the epidemiology source of these isolates, ten different oligonucleotide primers were used and results showed that the genetic similarity was 67.92% between N8 and N6, while it was found to be 52.27% and 53.76% between N11 and N6 and N11 and N8, respectively. The source of isolation of three isolates confirms these results because the isolates N6 and N8 were isolated from Baghdad governorate while the isolate N11 was isolated from Al-Ramadi city (Al-Anbar province).
Mervat Kassem
Alexandria University, Egypt
Title: Characterization and Kinetics Study for Rhamnolipids Produced by an Environmental Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolate
Biography:
Mervat Kassem has completed her MSc in Pharmaceutical Science in 1995 and her PHD in 1999 from Alexandria University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Microbiology. Recently, she holds the positions of Associate Professor and coordinator for the postgraduate courses students in her department.
Abstract:
Pseudomonas aeruginosa produces glycolipidic surface-active molecules (rhamnolipids) which have potential biotechnological applications. A previously identified biosurfactants-producing environmental isolate Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Ps. 6) was selected. Comparing the kinetics of cell growth and biosurfactants production by Ps. 6 in bioreactor with that of shake flask, the bioreactor was characterized by about 35% higher cell density than that of shake flask. However, the production of rhamnolipids was higher in shake flask culture than in bioreactor culture, where their minimum surface tension values obtained were 12 mN/m and 13.9 mN/m, respectively. The Ps.6 produced biosurfactants solution was stable to all tested temperatures and pH range 2-14. However, the surface tension of the biosurfactants solution increased with increasing salinity. Moreover, its emulsification indexes EI24 varied from 33.3% to 58%. It was also demonstrated that this biosurfactants solution form water in oil emulsion. Furthermore, the biosurfactants had greater antimicrobial activity against Bacillus spp. than S. aureus and M. flavus with undetectable activity against Gram negative bacteria. On testing the efficiency of the biosurfactants solution as preservative, it was found that <0.3 g% of the crude biosurfactants solution was not sufficient for preservation. Finally, the anti-biofilm activity of the produced biosurfactants reduced the biofilm formation of S. aureus ATCC 6538p by more than 2 log units.
Gadangi Indira
Kakatiya University, India
Title: RAA-ESBLE- Risk factors associated with acquisition of ESBLEscherichia coli infection, detection and treatment, a case report
Biography:
Dr.Gadangi Indira has completed her PhD FROM Kakatiya University in Medical Microbiology On dermatophytosis. She is an Associate Professor and HOD of Department of Microbiology in Pingle Govt College for Women, Warangal, Telangana State, India.At present she is working on a major research project funded by U.G.C. She has published papers in both National and International journals and a reviewer for a reputed journal.
Abstract:
ESBL group of organisms are beta lactamase enzyme producing organisms capable of breaking the beta lactam ring in antibiotics hence are resistant to usually cephalosporins and few other antibiotics. In these E.coli is the most common bacteria that lives in gut harmlessly but causes Urinary tract infection and in severe cases blood poisoning, septicemia or bacteremia leading to serious sepsis. When not treated it leads to inflammation of body parts, blood clots, blocking oxygen supply andultimately causing death. In present study report a 51 years old Indian tourist patient was admitted in a Wake Med Health hospital at USA, with symptoms of UTI.In hospital she was diagnosed with ESBL E.coliUTI infection with>100,000 colonies /ml and blood culture showed positive result. In this case the Sepsiswas resulted as secondary infection. She even suffered with chronic anemia. The previous medical history of subject showed several risk factors for acquisition of infection. These include elder age, female gender,chronic anemia, recent hospitalization, surgical procedure (due to hysterectomy), intravenous catheterization, intensive careand prolonged usage of high potency antibiotics.All these factors are established as predictive and prognostic risk factors for acquisition of infection and also results in colonization of organism. The antibiotic sensitivity test was done by using CLSI, MIC method on Ampicillin, Cefazolin, Cefepime, Celfazidine, Celtriaxone, Ciprofloxacin,Levofloxacin,Tobramycin showed resistant, Nitroflurantoin showed semi resistant andErtapenem, gentamicin,Amikacin showed susceptibility. Hence the subject was treated with Doripenemas Intra Venous administration for 15 days with the help of a peripherally inserted central catheteri.e., PICC line.In this case study report,the excessive usage of high dose antibiotics for longer period made the organism resistant or immune. This factor was considered as the primary risk factor followed by hospitalization and gender. In conclusion the study of risk factors help in identification of high-risk cases of UTI positive infection. But still individualization is needed for identification of risk factors.The drug used for the treatment is expensive and often not available in developing countries. The drug sensitivity tests helps in establishing an empirical antibiotic policy.
Zarfishan Tahir
University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Paksitan
Title: Diabetes Mellitus among Tuberculosis Patients: A Cross Sectional Study from Pakistan
Biography:
Prof. Dr. Zarfisahn Tahir is a motivated researcher with specialty in microbiology and public health issues. She has brilliant academic achievements and won gold medal at MBBS from King Edward Medical College Lahore. She did M.Phil in Microbiology and Won gold medal from Postgraduate Medical Institute, Lahore. She is working on zoonotic diseases of public health concern. Currently, Dr. Zarfishan is acting as Head of Department of Bacteriology and focal person of Provincial Rabies Control and Surveillance programme in Punjab. She is a focal person of Provincial TB Reference Laboratory.
Abstract:
The co-incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB) is largely associated with the high frequency of morbidity. The undertaken study determined the prevalence of DM among TB patients, and to analyze the impact of various socio-demographic and behavioral factors on the TB-DM co-incidence. During the study period (September, 2014 to August, 2015), a total of 500 TB patients attending four major public sector hospitals of Lahore, Pakistan were enrolled. A well-designed questionnaire was used to collect information regarding socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors of the patients. Fasting Blood sugar level of the study participants was tested by a semi automated clinical chemistry analyzer followed by HbA1c level of all hyperglycemic patients. Among 500 TB patients, prevalence of TB-DM co-incidence was observed in 74 (14.8%) patients. The maximum number of patients with co-existent TB-DM were male (62.16%), in the age group >57 years (35.13%), unemployed (48%) and illiterate (72.97%). However, among the total 74 study subjects having TB-DM co-incidence, 27% exhibited smoking history. Significant difference was observed in the category of age groups and education while no significant difference was observed in the category of gender, occupation and smoking. The study revealed co-incidence of TB and DM among 14.8% patients that is influenced by several socio-demographic factors including old age, unemployment, illiteracy and increased exposure of male to the polluted environment. Thus, poor and unhealthy living styles complicated the ailments by leading to the development of DM among immunologically compromised individuals.
Biography:
Yan-Yeung Luk has completed his PhD at The University of Chicago, and postdoctoral studies from University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has been faculty at the Chemistry Department of Syracuse University. He is the founder of LifeUnit LLC, a startup company focused on chemical control bacterial activities. He has published more than 30 papers in peer-reviewed journals and has been serving as a reviewer for NSF, and ACS journals. He is also a member on the scientific advisory broad of Orthobond INC.
Abstract:
Bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the lung of cystic fibrosis patients often converts to a phenotype, mucoid, that produce excessive amount of alginate polymers. These alginate polymers form a thick mucus that causes difficulty in patient’s breathing and contributes to both the morbidity and mortality of the patient. The cause and mechanism of this conversion of wild type to mucoid phenotype are still not clear. While there are commercial agents aim at washing and clearing the mucus, there are no drugs that control directly the mucus (alginate) production. Here, we demonstrate a specific class of synthetic molecules that can, in vitro, delay the production of alginate production, and inhibit the total amount of the alginate produced by mucoid phenotype. Our ongoing study of the mechanism of these chemical actions shows that one specific molecule can revert the mucoid phenotype back to wild-type Pseudomonas aeruginosa under conditions permit swarming. Structural variations of that specific chemical are NOT active for mucoid reversal and for alginate inhibition. This and other results suggest that the mode of action is likely a specific ligand-receptor binding event that triggers a cascade of chemical signaling events.
Krishna Priya
SNS College of Technology, India
Title: Enhancement of Strength and Durability of Concrete by Bacterial Calcite Precipitation
Biography:
S.Krishnapriya has submitted her Ph.D Thesis under Anna University, Chennai, India. She obtained her B.E in Civil Engineering from Periyar Maniammai College of Technology for Women, India and M.E in Structural Engineering from Kumaraguru College of Technology, India. She has published four papers in International Journals and six papers in National Conferences. She is presently working as an Assistant Professor at SNS College of Technology, Coimbatore, India.
Abstract:
In the current research work, two bacterial strains were isolated from the alkaline soil samples of a cement factory.They were identiï¬ed as Bacillus licheniformis BSKNAU and Bacillus flexus BSKNAU. Experimental investigations were carried out to study the effect of the bacteria on the compressive, split tensile and flexural strengths of concrete.Moreover, the effect of bacteria for improving the durability of concrete was investigated by determining the water absorption, resistance to acid attack and rapid chloride permeability of concrete.The cost effectiveness of bacterial treatment was improved by using wheat bran to replace the costly nutrient broth media for growing bacteria. The optimum bacterial cell concentration was found as 105 cells /ml of mixing water and was added to bacterial concrete specimens during casting. Control concrete specimens were cast with potable water and without any bacterial concentration The test results revealed that bacterial concrete specimens exhibited higher strength and improved durability performance when compared to control concrete specimens. Bacillus licheniformis BSKNAU considerably increased the strength and durability of concrete.Hence it is suitable for use in concrete. Bacillus flexus is not a good choice for use in concrete as it was less effective in increasing the strength and durability of concrete. The enhancement in strength and durability of concrete was due to the filling of pores and micro cracks with calcite precipitated by bacteria. The presence of calcite precipitates in bacterial concrete specimens was examined using a Scanning Electron Microscope.The calcite precipitates were confirmed using X ray Diffraction and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis.
Stevenson Many
Institut D’enseignement Chretien Siloe Medical Technology, Haïti
Title: Emerging infectious disease
Biography:
Stevenson Many was born Port-au-Prince February 17, 1989, from a modest family. From his father, Marcul Many, trader and mechanic, he inherited his love for technology. His mother, Milienna Edme, seamstress, taught him, in addition to the civic and moral values, the sense of responsibility from childhood. His parents despite their limited education are able to convey his strict principles and strict discipline. Many Steevenson did his secondary studies at the Lycee Toussaint Louverture. He began his studies in the University Institut D’enseignement Chretien Siloé 2012-2017 Medical Biology Section
Abstract:
An infectious disease is a disease caused by the transmission of microorganisms including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungus. Infection is the term for an infectious disease in general or contamination by germ. The contamination is the penetration of the germ in an organism. The infectious disease is the branch of medicine for infectious diseases. The specialist is an infectiologue. Emerging infectious diseases periodically worried epidemiologists and health authorities because of their health impacts, economic and socio current policies. The trichomonases are sexually transmitted diseases determined by a flagellate protozoan Trichomonas vaginal. Among infected women, it causes malodorous vaginal discharge and pus. The man becomes contaminated and can infect healthy carrier partners. Giardia is an intestinal disease caused by a flagellate protozoan Giardia lamblia. Infectious diseases are transmitted in different ways: by direct contact, by the digestive way, by the respiratory way by the gastrointestinal tract, by animal bites or stings. cost for antibiotics is low still 700 million infections were found every year with the mortality rate of 0.1% normally and in severe conditions it is about 25%.global Clinical Bacteriology market is valued at $6,727.29 million in 2014 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.03% between 2014 and 2019. Increasing disease burden of infectious diseases and increased funding for healthcare expenditure are the important growth drivers for this market during the forecast period. Infectious diseases are responsible worldwide for 17 million deaths per year, or one third of the deaths and 43% of deaths in developing countries (against 1% in industrialized countries). Prevention of infectious diseases is divided into three parts: avoid infection, use a condom to reduce the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Strengthen the immune system and take preventative treatments (The simple hygiene measures are the best preventive treatment : hand washing to prevent the transmission of food infectious.
Suresh Joshi
Drexel University College of Medicine, USA
Title: An Alternative Approaches to inactivate Air-Borne Pathogens: A Model Study
Biography:
Dr. Joshi is director of surgical site infections and bacterial pathogenesis. He is an assistant professor in the Departments of Microbiology & Immunology and Surgery, and an adjunct professor at the A.J. Drexel Plasma Institute, as well as Drexel's School of Biomedical Engineering. He has a special interest in emerging bacterial infections, disinfection and sterilization, and biodefense. Since 1987, Dr. Joshi has taught undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students and trained doctoral and postdoctoral fellows in research. He has been mentoring graduates and medical students, who now have successful careers in medicine, academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Since 2004, he has been a member of international mentoring program and minority mentoring program of American Society of Microbiology (ASM), and Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA).
Abstract:
Biological aerosols (Bioaerosols) are environmental aerosols that contain microorganisms in them. These bioaerosols can be very effective in transmitting diseases caused by those pathogens. Most systems control microbes through particulate filters, wherein the pathogens are merely trapped which subsequently survive for long periods of time over filters. These microbes can even proliferate, and cause infections at distant places after dissemination. Hence there is a need of a technology which can effectively inactivate microbes in a very short exposure time, so their further transmission can be controlled. Currently, many technologies are been investigated for this purpose, which include carbon nanotubes, UV radiation, electrostatic fields and more recently, the use of microwave and heat treatment. Plasma technology, especially non-thermal plasma technology has been increasing used as a tool for disinfection and sterilization. Earlier research carried out at our Drexel Plasma Institute has demonstrated the effectiveness of Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) plasma system. The proof-of-concept study presented here demonstrates the effective inactivation (> 5 logs of CFU) of a variety of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens in the form of bioaerosls, in seconds inside the laboratory-scale model of an HVAC system, using a single filament, point to point DBD. This is an attractive and effective alternative approach to control bioaerosol and thus transmission of infectious agent. (* Presenting Author).
Peter Timms
University of Sunshine Coast
Queensland University of Technology, Australia
Title: The female genital tract microbiome : Friend or foe against invading pathogens
Biography:
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Abstract:
The female genital tract is a complex ecosystem with a dynamic microbiota. The main function of the genital tract is in relation to host fertilisation and reproduction and it is thought that the main role of the genital tract microbiota therefore is to prevent foreign invaders from establishing. It is well known that lactobacilli are the main bacterial constituents of the female genital tract. More recent use of 16SrRNA deep sequencing has shown that the microbiota can be divided into 5 or 6 types. Four of these types are dominated by lactobacilli but the other CST Type has reduced lactobacilli and increased anaerobes. This last CST Type is associated with bacterial vaginosis and also an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections. The vaginal microbiota has several proposed means by which it might provide a protective barrier (low pH, hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, specific bacteriocins) although there is no consensus on which are the most important factors. Interestingly, some STIs seem to have co-evolved with the microbiota to their advantage. Chlamydia trachomatis for instance, is vulnerable to host immune attack via interferon gamma. This results in induction of the enzyme IDO and depletion of tryptophan. The genital strains of C.trachomatis have retained just the trpBA gene which enables them to potentially rescue tryptophan via indole from the genital tract microbiome. This demonstrates the complex interplay between the genital tract microbiota and invading pathogens.
Ananda M. Chakrabarty
University of Illinois, USA
Title: Bacterial Pathogenesis, Anticancer Drug Development and Patent Related Issues
Biography:
Ananda M. Chakrabarty is a Distinguished University Professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago. His research interest involves development of promiscuous bacterial protein/peptide drugs with anticancer, anti-viral and anti-parasitic activities. He is the co-founder of two start-up companies, CDG Therapeutics Inc. (www.cdgti.com) in Chicago and Amrita Therapeutics (www.amritatherapeutics.com) in India.
Abstract:
It is now well-known that many pathogenic bacteria with long term residence in the human body as biofilms consider the human body as their habitat and try to protect it from outside invaders such as cancers, viruses and parasites through secretion of protein weapons. In one instance, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic pathogen, secretes a protein azurin on contact with cancer cells. Upon release, azurin enters preferentially to cancer cells and interferes in cancer cell growth through multiple mechanisms involving complex formation with various cellular proteins in cancer cells that promote cancer cell growth. Such complex formation then leads to loss of function of such cancer growth promoting proteins. Thus azurin is known to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, as well as interfere in rapid cancer cell growth, through stabilization of tumor suppressor protein p53. Azurin also forms complexes with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and cell surface associated receptor tyrosine kinases such as EphB2 to inhibit angiogenesis and cell signaling in cancer cells to inhibit their growth. A chemically-synthesized 28 amino acid fragment (Azurin 50-77), termed p28, has completed a phase I trial in 15 stage IV cancer patients with metastatic tumors that were resistant to all conventional drugs and these patients had a life expectancy of about 6 months. P28 not only showed very little toxicity but also significant beneficial effects including partial and complete regression of the tumors in four patients, significantly prolonging their lives. P28 has also shown similar lack of toxicity but good efficacy in several pediatric brain tumor patients (www.cdgti.com). The University of Illinois at Chicago holds many patents on azurin/p28 as anticancer and anti-infective agents and the patent eligibility issues on such products of nature will be discussed.
Francis J. Castellino
University of Notre Dame, USA
Title: Interactions of the Bacterial and Host Systems in the Persistence of Group A-Streptoccal Infections in Humans
Biography:
Francis J. Castellino is the Kleiderer-Pezold Professor of Biochemistry and Director of the WM Keck Center for Transgene Research at the University of Notre Dame. This research group has studied the hemostasis system and its relation to infection and inflamation for over 40 years. He has coauthored more that 400 peer reviewed manuscripts in these areas
Abstract:
The virulence determinants of Gram-positive streptococci are more complex than those of Gram-negative strains. For Gram-negative bacteria, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a primary virulence factor. In the case of the human pathogen, Gram-positive group A-streptococcus pyogenes (GAS), we have examined by genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics that several factors play various roles as virulence determinants. These include cell wall components, innate immune diversions, and other manners of avoiding the host-response. Genes acquired by GAS strains via horizontal transfer, function in virulence through acquisition of host human plasminogen which allows dissemination of the bacteria into deep tissue. The products of these genes attempt to defeat both innate and acquired immunity of the host. These virulence factors are under control of one-component and two-component bacterial regulatory systems, which regulate gene expression as needed at different stages during infection. This talk will detail the functions of bacterial virulence determinants and their dynamic interplay with the innate and acquired immune system of the host
Suresh G. Joshi
Drexel University College of Medicine, USA
Title: An Alternative Approaches to inactivate Air-Borne Pathogens: A Model Study
Biography:
Dr. Joshi is director of surgical site infections and bacterial pathogenesis. He is an assistant professor in the Departments of Microbiology & Immunology and Surgery, and an adjunct professor at the A.J. Drexel Plasma Institute, as well as Drexel's School of Biomedical Engineering. He has a special interest in emerging bacterial infections, disinfection and sterilization, and biodefense. Since 1987, Dr. Joshi has taught undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students and trained doctoral and postdoctoral fellows in research. He has been mentoring graduates and medical students, who now have successful careers in medicine, academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Since 2004, he has been a member of international mentoring program and minority mentoring program of American Society of Microbiology (ASM), and Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA).
Abstract:
Biological aerosols (Bioaerosols) are environmental aerosols that contain microorganisms in them. These bioaerosols can be very effective in transmitting diseases caused by those pathogens. Most systems control microbes through particulate filters, wherein the pathogens are merely trapped which subsequently survive for long periods of time over filters. These microbes can even proliferate, and cause infections at distant places after dissemination. Hence there is a need of a technology which can effectively inactivate microbes in a very short exposure time, so their further transmission can be controlled. Currently, many technologies are been investigated for this purpose, which include carbon nanotubes, UV radiation, electrostatic fields and more recently, the use of microwave and heat treatment. Plasma technology, especially non-thermal plasma technology has been increasing used as a tool for disinfection and sterilization. Earlier research carried out at our Drexel Plasma Institute has demonstrated the effectiveness of Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) plasma system. The proof-of-concept study presented here demonstrates the effective inactivation (> 5 logs of CFU) of a variety of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens in the form of bioaerosls, in seconds inside the laboratory-scale model of an HVAC system, using a single filament, point to point DBD. This is an attractive and effective alternative approach to control bioaerosol and thus transmission of infectious agent. (* Presenting Author).
Muhanad Ali
University of Toronto Scarborough Campus, Canada
Title: Gender Dynamics and Socio-cultural determinants of MERS-CoV in Saudi Arabia
Biography:
Muhanad Ali is completing his undergraduate (Honours) Bachelors of Science in Health Science, Critical Development Studies, and Anthropology (minor) from the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus. Upon completion, he is planning to pursue graduate studies in International Health or Global Health with a particular focus on infectious diseases with respect to how factors such as colonialism, globalization and socio-cultural or even socio-ecological factors play into the origin, maintenance and emergence of old and new infectious diseases. He is currently the Co-director for the University of Toronto International Health Program (UTIHP-UTSC) and serves as a YHAN (Youth Health Action Network) member for the City of Toronto Public Health in Toronto, Canada.
Abstract:
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a severe viral respiratory illness that is caused by a new strain from the beta group of coronavirus (CoV). At both the global and national level within Saudi Arabia, men are at a greater risk of contracting the virus (68%) in comparison to women, which fosters an interesting question (6) – What accounts for these gender-based differences in the MERS infection rates between men and women? This study seeks to challenge the assumption that biological differences in vulnerability (genetic disposition) are the primary drivers for the disparate male infection rates, and shift towards a framework of analysis that embraces the unique dynamics of gender roles. To demonstrate this analytical framework, this paper will consider several gender-based risk factors, such as gender segregation, religious and cultural practices, and social roles pertaining to livestock management within Saudi Arabia. The literature review examined for this study found that gender-based risk factors (gender segregation, religious and cultural practice, and social roles pertaining livestock management) may lead to varying rates of exposure to MERS-CoV. Moreover, it illustrated a gap in our current knowledge and understanding of how gender dynamics affect infectious diseases, especially concerning the issue of containment of and protection from MERS.
Paul Walsh
University of Stirling, UK
Title: Use of NGS and Cloud Computing Techniques for Rapid Diagnosis and Prognosis of Neonates Presenting with Septicaemia
Biography:
Dr. Paul Walsh completed his PhD in 2000 from University College Cork, Ireland – focusing on the computational aspects of bioinformatics. In 2012 he founded NSilico LifeScience Ltd. as a spin-out from his research group in the Cork Institute of Technology. NSilico’s focus is on the development of easy-to-use clinical and bioinformatics software which can significantly accelerate the research process. Dr. Walsh is NSilico’s Chief Scientific Officer and leads the company’s research efforts which retain a particular focus on infectious disease and cancer. In recent years he has held visiting professor positions at the Division of Pathway Medicine (University of Edinburgh, UK) and HDA University of Darmstadt (Germany).
Abstract:
We have sequenced the genomes of all bacterial pathogens isolated from infants presenting with septicaemia in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh over the last 5 years. These genomic sequence data have revealed unique molecular markers which can be used for rapid diagnosis of infection – reducing diagnosis time from days (as is presently the case with traditional culture based methods) to hours. Furthermore, data from the host immune response to the infection (transcriptional data taken form the blood of infected infants) has identified prognostic markers which can rapidly predict the likely response to infection and the chances of recovery. A proprietary bank of bacterial specific diagnostic markers and host specific prognostic markers has been established and incorporated as part of a cloud based computer algorithm which allows clinicians to rapidly diagnose the causative agent of infection and, based on the calculated prognostic outcome, make an informed decision on the correct course of treatment. Currently, infants presenting with septicaemia are prescribed broad spectrum antibiotics in a blunderbuss approach, before a more targeted intervention once the culture and antibiotic sensitivity results are returned from the lab. While at present it can take up to 3 days for results to be returned and a proper treatment regimen to be instigated, our approach provides results in hours; allowing rapid intervention and significantly reducing the mortality rate associated with infant septicaemia.
Cidália Pina-Vaz
University of Porto, Portugal
Title: Rapid assessement of antimicrobial susceptibility profile directly from positive blood cultures by flow cytometry
Biography:
Cidália Pina-Vaz (Portuguese, born in 1964) has completed her medical course at Porto School of Medicine where she became specialist in Clinical Pathology; she has completed her PhD in Microbiology and is actually Assistant Professor at the same Medical School. She belongs to the board of some Medical societies and to some editorial journals. She has published more than 70 papers in reputed journals, book Chapters and received some important prizes. She is one of the founders of FASTinov, a spin-off of Porto University, with the objective of transference of technology, developed during her research, to the market.
Abstract:
Positive blood cultures demand rapid initiation of antimicrobial therapy. However, a minimum of 48 hours are needed for susceptibility results. Early administration of appropriate antimicrobials increases patient survival and reduce hospitalization costs. Flow cytometric protocols for assessment of the most relevant antimicrobials versus common microorganisms isolated from biological specimens were developed by FASTinov and patented (WO2011138765A1). Such tests were applied to positive blood cultures (100 gram negative bacilli, 50 gram positive cocci, 20 yeasts) from Hospital S. João, Porto, Portugal, following ethics commission approval. After becoming positive, microscopic examination was performed and microbial cells were separed after centrifugation; 105 organisms/ml were incubated with antimicrobials, according to gram stain, during 1 hour; cells were afterwards stained with the adequate fluorescent probe and submitted to FC analysis. Susceptibility phenotype was defined according previously defined cut-off values; results were compared with routine susceptibility tests - Vitek2 (BioMérieux, France). In case of discrepant results microdilution was used as reference method. The impact of this early susceptibility results on therapeutic decision, direct and indirect costs were evaluated. A time to result of two hours after the blood culture bottle becoming flagged positive was possible, representing considerable time saving (up to 46 hours). Agreement between FC test and routine test was 99%; high clinical and economic impact was - differences between 1-3 days of additional hospitalization days per patient. The use of flow cytometry for susceptibility profile analysis may represent a new paradigm in clinical microbiology and a step forward in targeted, cost-effective antimicrobial therapy.
Aditya
University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
Title: Procalcitonin Levels in Intensive Care Unit setting in patients with positive blood cultures
Biography:
University of Illinois at Chicago/ Advocate Christ Medical Center, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, USA
Abstract:
Background: Procalcitonin (PCT) is a biomarker of severe sepsis caused by bacterial infections. There is a paucity of evidence about the relationship of procalcitonin levels with variables such as site of infection and comorbidities. Methods: We conducted a retrospective pilot study of patients admitted to the medical and cardiac intensive care unit (ICU) from December 1, 2013 to November 30, 2014. Adults over 18 years of age with 1 positive blood culture and PCT levels drawn within 24 hours were included. 48 patients met these criteria. PCT levels were compared between true positive and contaminant/false positive blood cultures. Contaminated cultures were defined as coagulase negative Staphylococcus and diphtheroids with other non-infectious sources of sepsis. Site of infection was defined as respiratory, line-related, skin or soft tissue, intra-abdominal, or urinary tract. Co-morbidities investigated were systolic and diastolic heart failure, acute and chronic renal failure. Independent sample t tests and Pearson’s correlations were used for analysis using SPSS®22. Results: Mean PCT levels were higher in intra-abdominal (19.54±22.14) compared to respiratory infections (3.55±7.64), p=0.067. PCT levels were higher in patients with kidney dysfunction, (r=0.541, p<0.001). Higher mortality was observed in patients with positive blood cultures, 58% compared to average ICU mortality rates of 30-35%. There were no statistically significant differences between mean PCT levels for true versus false positive blood cultures (53.63±130.52 versus 24.21±61.34, p=0.61), congestive heart failure, age, and race.
Michael Jarrett
University of Colorado, USA
Title: Influence of Gelatin-Thrombin Matrix Tissue Sealant on Bacterial Colony Formation and Risk of Pelvic Infection
Biography:
MD Candidate, University of Colorado School of Medicine
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: Gelatin-thrombin matrix tissue sealant (GTM) use was previously identified as an independent predictor of pelvic infection following hysterectomies. We aim to elucidate contributing factors by assessing influence of GTM on bacterial colony formation and characterizing bacteria present at the vaginal cuff. METHODS: Escherichia coli was incubated in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and pelvic washings with and without GTM to assess influence on colony formation. Pelvic washings of the vaginal cuff were collected from hysterectomies occurring June through October 2015. In vitro techniques, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays for 16S rRNA, and 16S amplicon sequencing were performed with washings to characterize bacteria at the vaginal cuff. RESULTS: Mean bacterial colony formation in PBS following 20 hours incubation was greater for E. coli with GTM versus without (1.48x107 CFU/ml vs. 9.95x105 CFU/ml, p = 0.001). Out of 61 pelvic washings samples, 3 were culture positive (≥5000 CFU/ml) with Enterococcus faecalis. CONCLUSION: In vitro experiments conclude GTM supports colony formation of E. coli in PBS. Analysis of pelvic washings revealed presence of E. faecalis, but results were inconclusive. Further studies are recommended