Day1

Abstract:

Paget’s disease of bone, is a focal disorder involving one or more bones which is usually diagnosed in individuals over 50 years of age and also affects one or more family members in about 20% of cases. The earliest phase begins with increased numbers of osteoclasts in an area of the skeleton followed by a slow progression of bone resorption throughout the bone. This is followed by increased osteoblastic activity which results in a disorganized structure and an overgrowth of bone. This can lead to deformity and fractures. The familial aspects of the disease led to genetic analyses of patients. In 2002, mutations in the sequestosome1 gene were first reported in 11/24 families and in 18/112 apparently sporadic patients. At least 28 different mutations have been reported. Other gene mutations have been described but sequestosome1 mutations are the most common mutation reported in families. Since several investigators have found that not all family members develop Paget’s disease by 50-60 years even if they have a mutation this is not sufficient to account for the disease. Also the prevalence of the disease has dropped significantly in the past several decades, a finding that is unlikely related to genetic factors. Environmental factors have been evaluated and the most likely one of importance is measles virus. Initially electron microscopy detected nuclear and cytoplasmic structures resembling nucleocapsids of the paramyxoviridae family in osteoclasts but not other bone cells. Further studies utilizing immunohistochemical analyses and reverse transcription PCR provided evidence that measles virus nucleocapsids were in the osteoclasts. Several other studies have not confirmed these results. However the fact the prevalence of the disease has decreased since the availability of measles vaccine in 1963 suggests that measles virus is a likely factor in the development of the disease and genetic factors increase susceptibility.

Biography:

Dr.Frederick R. Singer is a graduate of the University of California in San Francisco School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine at the Wadsworth Veterans Administration Center in Los Angeles. Endocrinology fellowships were done at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and at the Royal Postgraduate Medical School in London. He was also a Clinical Investigator at the Wadsworth Veterans Administration Medical Center. He then moved to the faculty of the University of Southern California for 15 years, spent 4 years at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and for the past 29 years has been in the Endocrine/Bone disease Program at the John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint Johns Health Center in Santa Monica. He is a clinical professor of medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. His research interests have been Paget’s disease of bone, osteoporosis, and primary hyperparathyroidism. He is a past president of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research and a board member of the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Abstract:

Pregnant women are increasingly considered a priority group for influenza vaccination, but the evidence in favor relies mainly on observational studies, subject to the “healthy-vaccinee bias”. Propensity score methods – sometimes applied – reduce but cannot eliminate residual confounding.
Meta-analyses of observational studies show relative risks far from the thresholds that would confirm the efficacy of universal vaccination for pregnant women without needing randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Critical articles have shown that in the four RCTs investigating the outcomes of this vaccination there was a tendency to higher offspring mortality. In the largest RCT there was a significant excess of presumed/serious neonatal infections, and also significantly more serious adverse events.
Many widely acknowledged observational results (about hormone replacing therapy, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, etc.) were confuted by RCTs. Therefore the international drive to consider this vaccination a “standard of care” is not justified yet. Moreover, there is the risk of precluding further independent RCTs for “ethical considerations”, so as “to not deny the benefits of influenza vaccinations to pregnant women of a control group”. Instead, before promoting national campaigns for universal vaccination in pregnancy further large, independent and reassuring RCTs are needed, even braving challenging a current paradigm.
Until then, influenza vaccination should be offered to pregnant women only once open information is available about the safety uncertainties, to allow truly informed choices, and anyway promoting also other protective behaviors.

Biography:

Dr.Alexander Apt started his research career in 1973 at the Institute for General Genetics, Moscow, with establishment and serological analysis of mutations in the H2 complex, the mouse MHC. In 1979, he moved to the Central Institute for Tuberculosis (CIT), Moscow, and started immunological and genetic studies of tuberculosis infection in inbred mouse strains. Obtained PhD degree in 1984 from the Gamaleya Institute for Microbiology and Epidemiology, Moscow. 1992-1993 – Visiting Scientist at the McGill Center for the Study of Host Resistance, Montreal. Since 1998 – the Head of Laboratory for Immunogenetics, CIT. Professor of Immunology (2002).

Abstract:

A hallmark of inflammatory responses is leukocyte mobilization, which is mediated by bacterial and host tissue-derived chemotactic factors that activate Gi-protein-coupled seven-transmembrane receptors (GPCRs) expressed on host cell surface. Formylpeptide receptors (FPRs, Fprs in mice) are members of the chemoattractant GPCR family, shown to be critical in myeloid cell trafficking during infection, inflammation, immune responses and cancer progression. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that both human FPRs and murine Fprs are involved in many patho-physiological processes because of their expression on a wide variety of cell types in addition to myeloid cells. The unique capacity of FPRs (Fprs) to interact with numerous structurally unrelated, pathogen- as well as host-derived, chemotactic ligands enables these receptors to participate in orchestrated disease initiation, progression and resolution. One murine Fpr member, Fpr2, and its endogenous agonist peptide, Cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP), have been demonstrated as key mediators of colon mucosal homeostasis and protection from inflammation, dysbiosis and associated tumorigenesis. Recent availability of genetically engineered mouse models greatly expanded the understanding of the role of FPRs (Fprs) in pathophysiology that places these molecules in the list of potential targets for therapeutic intervention of diseases.

Biography:

Dr. Ji Ming Wang received his M.D. degree in 1983 at Shanghai Second Medical University (currently Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine) Graduate School at the Faculty of Chest Surgery, majoring in the Surgical and Immunological Therapy of Lung Cancer, in Shanghai, P. R. China. In 1987, he obtained a Ph.D. degree at the Lombardy School for High Education with the major in Immunology (located at the Mario Negri Pharmacological Research Institute with Dr. Alberto Matovani as the mentor), Milan, Italy. Dr. Wang joined the National Cancer Institute at Frederick in 1990 as a Visiting Scientist (with Dr. Joost J. Oppenheim as the mentor). He then became an independent Principal Investigator in 1996. In 2002, he was promoted to the position of tenured Senior Investigator. Dr. Wang’s major research interest is the role of G-protein coupled chemoattractant receptors (GPCRs) in pathophysiological conditions.

Abstract:

Pregnant women are increasingly considered a priority group for influenza vaccination, but the evidence in favor relies mainly on observational studies, subject to the “healthy-vaccinee bias”. Propensity score methods – sometimes applied – reduce but cannot eliminate residual confounding.
Meta-analyses of observational studies show relative risks far from the thresholds that would confirm the efficacy of universal vaccination for pregnant women without needing randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Critical articles have shown that in the four RCTs investigating the outcomes of this vaccination there was a tendency to higher offspring mortality. In the largest RCT there was a significant excess of presumed/serious neonatal infections, and also significantly more serious adverse events.Many widely acknowledged observational results (about hormone replacing therapy, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, etc.) were confuted by RCTs. Therefore the international drive to consider this vaccination a “standard of care” is not justified yet. Moreover, there is the risk of precluding further independent RCTs for “ethical considerations”, so as “to not deny the benefits of influenza vaccinations to pregnant women of a control group”. Instead, before promoting national campaigns for universal vaccination in pregnancy further large, independent and reassuring RCTs are needed, even braving challenging a current paradigm.
Until then, influenza vaccination should be offered to pregnant women only once open information is available about the safety uncertainties, to allow truly informed choices, and anyway promoting also other protective behaviors.

Biography:

Dr. Alberto Donzelli was past Director of the Service of Appropriateness Education and EBM at the Agency for Health Protection of Milan. He received his Doctoral degree and specialization in Hygiene&Preventive Medicine from the University of Milan. He has authored several scientific and educational publications in various indexed journals and books, reflecting his research interests in Prevention, Public Health, Medical Education and Comparative Assessment of Drugs&Health Technologies. Dr. Donzelli is also the Editor of the Good clinical practice Pills for doctors and Health education Pills for citizens, and Founder and member of the Executive Board of the Foundation Allineare Sanità e Salute.
Research Interest: Health Promotion, Prevention, Public Health and rewarding systems better aligning the stakeholders’ interests with health, Medical and Lay people Education, Comparative Assessment of Drugs&Health Technologies.

Abstract:

There are several identification tools that can assist researchers, technicians and the community in the recognition of Chagas vector insects (triatomines), from other insects with similar morphologies. They involve using dichotomous keys, field guides, expert knowledge or, in more recent approaches, through the classification by a neural network of high-quality photographs taken in standardized conditions. The aim of this research was to develop a deep neural network to recognize triatomines (insects associated with vectorial transmission of Chagas disease) directly from photos taken with any commonly available mobile device, without any other specialized equipment. To overcome the shortcomings of taking images using specific instruments and a controlled environment an innovative machine-learning approach was used: Fastai with Pytorch, a combination of open-source software for deep learning. The Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was trained with triatomine photos, reaching a correct identification in 94.3% of the cases. Results were validated using photos sent by citizen scientists from the GeoVin project, resulting in 91.4% of correct identification of triatomines. The CNN provides a lightweight, robust method that even works with blurred images, poor lighting and even with the presence of other subjects and objects in the same frame. Future steps include the inclusion of the CNN into the framework of the GeoVin science project, which will also allow to further train the network using the photos sent by the citizen scientists. This would allow the participation of the community in the identification and monitoring of the vector insects, particularly in regions where government-led monitoring programmes are not frequent due to their low accessibility and high costs.

Biography:

Mr.Lorenzo Pattori, Bachelor of Science (BS), Information, Master of Business Administration (MBA), He is a PM at Globant.

Abstract:

Introduction: Brucellosis is a highly contagious zoonosis caused by ingestion of unpasteurized dairy products or contact with secretions of infected animals. Also known as undulant fever, this disease is caused by an aerobic, Gram-negative bacteria named Brucella. Although aortic involvement is rarely seen, it can be a life threatening complication of brucellosis. This case report describes a ruptured aneurysm of the common iliac artery (CIA) due to secondary infection by Brucella melitensis.
Report: A 79 year old Turkish male with a known isolated aneurysm of the CIA presented with acute and progressive abdominal pain. Laboratory tests showed a haemoglobin level of 11.4 g/dL (normal 13.8-17.2), leucocytes of 8.2 mmol/L (normal 4.5-11.0) and a C-reactive protein (CRP) level of 37 mg/L (normal <10). Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed rupture of the aneurysm. The patient underwent prompt endovascular repair. The right internal iliac artery was embolized with 10 mm coils, followed by infrarenal endovascular aneurysm repair extending into the right proximal external iliac artery. Several weeks after an uneventful recovery, the patient presented with spiking fever and abdominal discomfort. CT revealed an abscess anterior to the CIA. Blood and pus cultures grew B. melitensis. Echocardiography showed no signs of endocarditis. In recurrent re-admissions, conservative antibiotic therapy proved to be insufficient. Eventually, neo-aorto-iliac system (NAIS) reconstruction using bilateral femoral veins was performed to provide definitive treatment four months after initial presentation. Approximately one year after surgery, the patient has fully recovered and no signs of infection have recurred. Conclusion: Although Brucella infected aneurysms are rare, they are associated with life threatening disease. Diagnosing this type of brucellar infection can be challenging owing to the long incubation time needed for blood and tissue cultures. One should be aware of this disease in patients who live in endemic areas or consume unpasteurized dairy products. Definitive treatment of these aneurysms often needs open surgery and antibiotics for complete treatment. Vigilant surveillance is required to monitor for post-operative complications such as graft infection, recurrent (false) aneurysm, and abscess formation.                                                                                                                                         Biography:

Dr.Siem Willems, 26 years old, is currently employed as surgical resident at the HagaTeaching Hospital and as PhD candidate at the Leiden University Medical Center (the Netherlands). During his period as student and as working professional, he performed research in several fields which led to seven publications. He also attended the ISBT Congress in Copenhagen and won the Youth Investigator Award. In his own country, he won the dr. van Dijk prize, as reward for his Master thesis. Right now, his work focuses on vascular medicine.

Abstract:

Nanotechnology has contributed to improve the mechanical, physical and biological properties of dental materials, introducing new diagnostic modalities and nanoparticle loading systems. Specifically in the oral and maxillofacial surgery area, the presence of infection can compromise implants, areas of bone grafts and major bone reconstruction surgeries. In certain situations, the repair may be limited by the extent of the bone defect, making spontaneous repair difficult. In these cases, bone grafting is indicated for a better prognosis. Despite the satisfactory success rates of bone grafts, bone regeneration capacity can be impaired when contamination occurs at the site, or even completely lost. In this context, nanoscale materials can replace the traditional methods of treatment with antibiotics. Thus, the aim of the present study was to develop a new biomaterial with antimicrobial properties to use in association with bovine bone grafts. The results showed that bovine bone grafts can be efficiently functionalized with silver nanoparticles obtained by bioreduction with orange essential oil extracted from the orange peel and commercial orange oil. The bone grafts functionalized with silver nanoparticles showed antimicrobial capacity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative microorganisms and diploid fungus, and can be considered as a promising possibility for the bone defects treatment in oral and maxillofacial surgery area.

Biography:

Dr.Anelise Viapiana Masiero ,graduated in Dentistry with a Master’s degree in Endodontics from the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel/RS- 2002) and PhD degree in Endodontics from the University of São Paulo (USP/SP- 2006). Since 2001 she has been working as a professor and researcher at the Planalto Catarinense University (UNIPLAC), Santa Catarina, Brazil, developing activities of teaching, research and management at undergraduate and graduate levels. Among the topics of interest in research she can highlight the Interdisciplinary Practices and Research in Oral Health the Use of Nanotechnology in Dentistry. Currently, she is the Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Environment and Health.

Abstract:

Three new mixed-ligand complexes of the type [Co(Hdmg)2(Ura)X], where Hdmg = dimethylglyoximato anion, Ura = uracil, and X = Cl, Br, or I, were synthesized and characterized using elemental analyses, molar conductance, IR and UV-visible spectroscopies. The molar conductance values indicate that the compounds are not electrolytes. The thermal decomposition was studied using TG and DSC techniques. It is shown that the decomposition process of all complexes occurs in three steps. The IR spectra of the complexes show that the four nitrogen atoms of oxime functions of the two Hdmg mono-anions are linked to the central atom, the whole moiety forming an equatorial plane. Uracil (-N) and halogen occupy the apical sites in the trans position in an octahedral arrangement. The absorption bands observed in the UV-visible spectra are due either to intra-ligand transitions, ligand-metal charge transfer transitions or d-d transitions. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations have been successfully used to investigate the nature of the bonding in the complexes. The antibacterial activities of the complexes and their combinations were tested against escherichia coli, pseudomonas aeruginosa, klebsiella pneumonia, proteus mirabilis, staphylococcus aureus, and bacillus cereus. The combination of iodo and bromo complexes showed a strong inhibitory power compared to the other combinations and to the free complexes.

Biography:

Dr. Omar Berradj, Teacher-researcher of Chemistry, Science faculty, University of Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria. He had interest in studies of new chemical compounds: synthesis, experimental and theoretical characterization, and evaluation of biological activity. He graduated of Polytechnic school of Algiers, and he has got his Magister degree in the same school. In university of Tizi-Ouzou, he has got his PHD and ability to supervise researches.

Abstract:

Drug resistant bacteria which are known as super bugs are challenging worldwide problems as they increase the costs of hospitalization, uses of highly toxic drugs and may associated with high mortality rate. Multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDRPA) is one of the most important drug resistant strains. This review handling the frequency of MDRPA, risk factors and resistance mechanisms associated with MDRPA. It’s naturally known that P. aeruginosa express a high resistant manner, this attributed to loss of membrane permeability, efflux pumping of the antimicrobial agents and acquired resistant through acquisition of resistance genes in addition to its virulence factors which contribute to the resistance mechanisms. The frequency of MDRPA ranged from 12-36% of isolated P. aeruginosa from different location of the world. It’s highly recommended to focus on drug resistance mechanisms for all microorganisms especially MDR P. aeruginosa to avoid having untreatable infection and superbugs.

Biography:

Dr.Eltayib Hassan Ahmed Mohamed Osman PhD from Sardar Patel University (India) 2010 – Two of his papers have been listed as first and second papers among the top 10 articles published in same domain, under who is publishing in his domain program- 2011. – He is acting as editorial member or reviewer for the following respected journal; editorial member of the Journal of Microbiology Research Journal, referee of Process Biochemistry Journal, referee of African Journal of Microbiology, referee of African Journal of Biotechnology. – His overarching research interests revolve around the diagnostic microbiology using molecular tools as well conventional methods, determine emerging of antibiotic resistant organisms (with emphases on Hiscobacterium Tuberculosis, MDR & XDR).

Abstract:

Rifampicin (RFM) remains an effective treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. However, serious reactions such as haemolytic anaemia, acute renal failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) have been documented. DIC secondary to RFM is a consequence of a rare immunoallergic reaction caused by the intermittent administration of RFM. Clinical features of that reaction include fever, hypotension, abdominal pain, and vomiting within hours of ingestion. Future administration of RFM is contraindicated. The authors present the case of a 68-year-old man with DIC due to RFM. The review of the existing literature identified only 13 previously reported cases of RFM-induced DIC. The prior treatment with RFM, the temporal association between the two episodes of DIC and the RFM intake, as well as the absence of new episodes after its interruption, pointed to the causal role of the drug in the case described. The suspicion was confirmed post mortem by the anti-RFM IgG and IgM antibodies in the patient’s serum. The present case is intended to draw attention to a rare side effect of a commonly used drug.

Abstract:

Most of the serious hazards of blood transfusion from human factors and only 10% of them were not preventable, thus staff training on safe blood transfusion was strongly recommended. Aim: To assess blood transfusion safety knowledge among medical staffs and how much it improves after intervention. Results: Near miss was identified by only half of the participants and around 78.3%, 63.2%, and 60% of them correctly identified the indication of red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, and platelet transfusion. These percentages were significantly improved post education. Only 50% knew that it’s not allowed to co-administrate drugs or IV fluids with the transfused blood and that rose to almost 80% after intervention. Consent information and correct patient identification were well known among most of the staff. Only 18.4% knew the pre transfusion screening protocol, which was increased to 85.8 % post education. Almost 65.3% correctly responded to the transfusion reaction quiz with no marked change after intervention. Age and work experience were significant independent risk factors for poor knowledge of safety transfusion. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted on 190 participants most of them were working on a tertiary non- teaching hospital for more than 8 years. A questionnaire was designed and validated through a pilot study after which all participants were invited to fill it pre and post educational intervention. The educational material has been prepared based on the WHO blood transfusion safety guidelines (WHO/EHT/10.05) in the form of leaflets and short power point presentations prepared by the researcher and reviewed by external experts in the field. Conclusion: Transfusion safety knowledge needs further enhancement with more tailored training programs focusing on the topics that didn’t show a significant change after our educational training.

Biography:
Dr.Shaimaa Sahmoud MD, MRCPCH. She is a Lecturer of Pediatrics at Suez Canal University, Egypt.She has published few papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

The application of indigenous knowledge system among South Africans is a very old practice that is still intact regardless of improved exposure to modern developments in diagnosis and treatment of illnesses at the health facilities. These illnesses include those that are regarded as new in the medical fraternity and in indigenous knowledge system. For various reasons, some patients believe in self-medication depending on their personal knowledge of the herbs or medications they used in the past or through an advice from family members, friends, traditional healers and medical practitioners. This usually excludes many scheduled medications such as antibiotics that are available to patients through a medical practitioner’s prescription letter. Because of lack of proper education in scientific processing of traditional herbs and medicines, and the knowledge of the illnesses that may need scientific or professional diagnosis, most patients lose their lives unnecessarily. This study aims at reducing the number of unnecessary deaths caused by misdiagnosis, self-medication and improper therapeutic practices resulting from lack of proper knowledge by promoting the use of scientific and professional diagnosis and treatment of illnesses through joint consultations and sharing of scientific and indigenous knowledge system. Participants are sampled from traditional health practitioners, community health workers and caregivers in the African communities. They are identified by pseudonyms. The researcher will conduct open-ended interviews. The results show that some patients use their general knowledge and/or consult traditional and medical practitioners to treat their symptoms or illnesses. Some patients go for a second opinion when the illness has already advanced to a stage of high risk. Some patients misdiagnose themselves or are misdiagnosed and given incorrect medication or treatment by their traditional or medical practitioners. It would be when their conditions are complicating that they would seek a second opinion or help in a health facility. Traditional herbs and medicines are usually administered without proper diagnosis, hygienic preparations and dosages. In addition to this, proper therapeutic processes are not followed up after signs of improvement or seeking a second opinion in a case where there is no improvement in the expected healing.

Biography:

Dr. Cordelia Nkwinika (Khoza) is a Lecturer in the Department of African Languages, University of South Africa. She was an Educator for 28 years before joining the university six years ago. She is a translator and an author. Her publications are: (1) Maintenance of the Message in the Translation of Literary Texts: A Contribution or an Onslaught to African Languages. (2) The Hidden Gendered Anger in Marriages: The Case of Xitsonga Culture. She has presented these papers at conferences: (1) Uneven Distribution of Wealth through Political Manipulation as Expressed in J. M. Magaisa’s Poetry: Moral-Philosophical Perspective of the Politics of the New Era. (2) A Review of the Psychoanalysis Approach: The case of Ndlandlalati ya Malenga. (3) The Case of the Naming in Ndlandlalati ya Malenga by A.D. Mahatlane. (4) A Reflection on Places with Dual or More Place Names at Bushbuckridge (Mpumalanga Province in South Africa).

Abstract:

Background: Depression appears to be a common complication in patients during and post–COVID-19 infection. Understanding the mechanism of action of cytokines such as interleukin-6, interleukin-10 and others in depression and in cytokine storm syndrome, the core component of COVID- 19, could shine a new light on future treatment options for both disorders.

Objective: This review demonstrates the role of interleukins in COVID-19 pathogenesis and
their role in depression.

Results: We described cases we have treated as an example for the dual role interleukins have in COVID-19 infection and depression and reviewed approximately 70 articles focusing on the role of interleukins in cytokine storm syndrome and depression.

Conclusion: This review highlights the key features of cytokines in both diseases. As the scientific community has more time to recover and process the effect of the current pandemic, we believe that additional research will pave the way to diverse pathways to treat depression in these patients and others.

Biography:

Dr.Orna Alpert a psychiatrist who specializes in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine. She treat children and adults with depression disorder, PTSD, delirium, somatization and drug and alcohol addiction. Her specialty involves the evaluation and treatment of patients with co-morbid medical illness and psychiatric symptoms. She has a special interest in organ transplantation and worked at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Yale-New Haven Hospital with liver, kidney and heart transplant candidates.During her time at the Medical College of Wisconsin, she was director of transplant services.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, she has focused on patients who exhibited complications such as delirium, depression and Guillain-Barre Syndrome.
Most of her work in recent years has focused on Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry or Psychosomatic Medicine. She remain active academically and continue to publish and give lectures.
She recently received the honor of becoming a Fellow of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.

Abstract:

Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycosis caused by pathogenic fungi of the genus Sporothrix. Sporothrix schenckii infections have a worldwide distribution; the Brazilian outbreak is caused by S. brasiliensis while, in China, S. globosa transmitted through the sapronotic route became an epidemic among farmers. Sporothrix inoculation is required for infection and often occurs through a cutaneous trauma caused by plant thorns and wood splinters, popularly known as Gardner’s disease, or by cat scratching/biting. This last route of infection became important in Brazil since the mid-90’s outbreak, leading up to the currently hyperendemic neglected zoonosis in this country, along with recent evidence of a potential spreading to South America. In fact, S. brasiliensis is highly pathogenic, and cats show a unique interaction with this fungus, possibly determined by its high susceptibility, displaying severe disease forms which require prolonged antifungal administration. Frequently, domestic felines are refractory to itraconazole, the main azole used in the sporotrichosis treatment, with reports of relapse and treatment abandonment. As in other fungal infections, the immune system plays a central role in the pathogenesis of sporotrichosis. In cats the most unfavorable prognosis presents due to indiscriminate spread of Sporothrix yeasts, maintaining the high fungal load on the lesions and increasing the zoonotic potential of this host, thus resulting in severe clinical conditions. This suggests that in addition to the virulence of the fungus, feline immunity may contribute to the poor ability to control Sporothrix multiplication. The different types of host immune response to Sporothrix virulence factors were both in vitro and in vivo studied, mainly in murine and human models. Nonetheless, very little is known about the immune response of cats against Sporothrix, motivating our group to mobilize efforts and to describe a novel protocol of S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis in vitro exposure to domestic feline PBMCs. Such new method will provide a unique opportunity to investigate Sporothrix-cat interaction and, therefore, open doors for the future discovery of new ways to better treat feline sporotrichosis, a major Public Health concern. Indeed, recently, we described the coinfection of domestic felines residing in hyperendemic sporotrichosis areas by more than one S. brasiliensis isolates. These show disparate phenotypic parameters such as cytokine levels after PBMC interaction and different responses to antifungal agents. Likewise, it is quite possible that cat coinfection by this species represents a common occurrence with potential clinical implications. In this lecture we will present and discuss our main research data focusing on the “One Health approach” and its key concepts for better facing and future coping with this relevant fungal disease.

Biography:

Dr.Andréa Regina de Souza Baptista, Associate Professor at the Department of Microbiology and Parasitology at Fluminense Federal University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Advises masters, doctoral and post-doctoral students in three Graduate Programs (Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Medicine and Science and Biotechnology). Leader of the Research Group Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, coordinates the homonymous laboratory. Ad hoc reviewer of high-impact journals and a consultant member of international funding agencies. Member of the “Working Group on Sporotrichosis” of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycoses (ISHAM). Leading subjects of investigation are the pathogen-host interaction, molecular and serologycal diagnostic methods and the molecular epidemiology of infectious and parasitic agents, especially Sporothrix spp. and Plasmodium vivax.

Abstract

The Mexican population widely uses traditional medicine from herbal treatments, alternative therapies, and the well-known “immuno-modulator,” which aims to relieve both allergic and autoimmune diseases by modulating the immune response. Theoretically, it has been managed that auto-allergens are eliminated in the urine, cytokines released according to the inflammatory response of each individual. In the ’50s, Dr. Maximiliano Ruiz Castañeda develops a method to take advantage of the eliminated elements in the urine to induce an immunomodulatory response.The treatment has been employed for more than 50 years of uninterrupted use, partly supporting its effectiveness. However, no previous study has determined the composition of this immunomodulator. Despite the benefits of this treatment, the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study aims to identify immunoregulatory peptides, such as cytokines and growth factors, in the immune-modulator, and las physical, chemical, and quality characteristics to effectively and safely use this product. Urine and immune-modulator concentrations of cytokines and growth factors were assessed using a Luminex assay. Twenty-one cytokines and growth factors were identified in immune-modulator samples. MCP-1 was identified in 100% of the samples; MIP-1β, IL-8, RANTES, INF-γ, and IP-10 were identified in approximately 65–70% of samples; IL5, IL-1B, and IL-17 in 50–60%; eotaxin, VEGF, IL-6, and FGF in about 40%; MIP-1α, IL-9, GM-CSF, G-CSF, IL-12, and IL-15 in about 20–30%; other were found in less percentage.Additionally, patients exhibited significant changes in IL-1β, IFN-γ, and MCP-1 concentrations after treatment with the immune-modulator. The immune-modulator is an alternative treatment based on the sublingual administration of cytokines and growth factors obtained from the urine of patients. In this study, its composition was characterized. pH, sterility was also verified. The isolated products
could be responsible for the effects of the immune-modulator. Further trials are required to evaluate the effective delivery of these molecules by the administration route described.

Abstract:

Out of a hundred COVID-19 patients, less than five percent will experience severe disease, hospitalization, ventilation and mortality . A number of risk factors have been proposed and validated in wide population studies, and include age, smoking history and diabetes. However, each of these factors lack the sufficient sensitivity and specificity to support the early detection of patients at high risk of severe COVID-19. Additionally, in patients who already present with moderate to severe COVID-19, physicians lack effective and accessible tools to monitor disease deterioration or response to treatment. Given COVID-19’s high correlation with a patient’s immune response, new host immune response measurement technologies are showing promise in changing the paradigm of COVID-19 patient stratification and management.

Researchers at Israel’s Rabin Medical Center, in collaboration with MeMed, have published prospective data on the potential utility of a 15-minute point of need solution that measures TRAIL and IP-10, two viral-induced host immune biomarkers, in stratifying patients with severe COVID-19 and managing their treatment. This data, in addition to a decade-long series of studies on dozens of other respiratory viral infections, shows that serial measurements of the viral-induced immune proteins TRAIL and IP-10 can be a valuable resource for predicting disease severity and progression, and for monitoring individual patient responses to treatment for severe COVID-19.

In this session, Dr. Kfir Oved will discuss the study findings, as well as recent advances in the technologies used to probe the host response to infection, particularly those based on proteomics. The session will also highlight how predictive biomarkers and the actionable insights they provide can potentially be used to improve COVID-19 patient management, enabling interventions that can help reduce ICU admissions, the need for ventilation and, ultimately, mortality.

Biography:

Dr. Kfir Oved has over 15 years of combined industry and academic experience, leading interdisciplinary teams combining biotechnology and biochemistry, applied immunology, engineering, and big data in multiple clinical applications. Kfir co-founded MeMed and serves as its Chairman of the Board. For over a decade, he served as CTO of MeMed, where he led the inception, development, and clinical validation of the entire MeMed technology suite, including the MeMed BV™ test, and the MeMed Key™ point-of-need platform, from an idea on a napkin to development completion.
Dr. Oved holds a B.A. in Biology (Summa Cum Laude), B.Sc. in medicine (Magna Cum Laude), and Ph.D. in molecular immunology, and trained for six years at the Technion School of Medicine. Dr. Oved is the co- author of over 100 granted and pending patents, the author of over 20 peer-reviewed publications, and the recipient of multiple research excellence awards, including the Gutwirth Excellence award an Wolf Award for research students. In 2019, he was listed among the top 25 voices in precision medicine by BIS research. Dr. Oved is among the inceptors of the AI-based health data company Navina and serves as its Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer. Last year, he founded Canopy Immuno-Therapeutics, a stealth mode biotech company engaged in developing a novel immunotherapeutic approach for autoimmunity and life-threatening allergy.

Abstract:

Introduction
Management of COVID-19 pneumonia cases is a medical challenge. However, the situation becomes worse if the patient has coexisting morbidities or newly developed complications. The study is about managing rectus sheath haematoma (RSH) in a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia.
Presentation of case
The patient was a 75-year-old male, presenting with bilateral COVID-19 pneumonia, with pulmonary embolism complications. Therapeutic anticoagulation by subcutaneous Clexane injection was administered. A left RSH was observed, and the patient fell and underwent haemorrhagic shock. Laparotomy was done for the evacuation of the haematoma.
Discussion
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is an essential tool for diagnosing RSH, identifying the source of bleeding, type of haematoma, and compression of the urinary system.
Conclusion
Surgical management of RSH in COVID-19 patients is superior to interventional radiology during the rush pandemic period.

Biography:

Dr. Hasan Bakirli is a resident in General Surgery currently working in St. Cyril and Methodius hospital in Bratislava, Slovakia. Dr. Hasan is very hard working. He has graduated from the Slovak Medical University in June 2020.

Abstract:

Introduction
Management of COVID-19 pneumonia cases is a medical challenge. However, the situation becomes worse if the patient has coexisting morbidities or newly developed complications. The study is about managing rectus sheath haematoma (RSH) in a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia.
Presentation of case
The patient was a 75-year-old male, presenting with bilateral COVID-19 pneumonia, with pulmonary embolism complications. Therapeutic anticoagulation by subcutaneous Clexane injection was administered. A left RSH was observed, and the patient fell and underwent haemorrhagic shock. Laparotomy was done for the evacuation of the haematoma.
Discussion
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is an essential tool for diagnosing RSH, identifying the source of bleeding, type of haematoma, and compression of the urinary system.
Conclusion
Surgical management of RSH in COVID-19 patients is superior to interventional radiology during the rush pandemic period.

Biography:

Dr. Ilkin Bakirli is a resident in Vascular Surgery currently working in the National Institute of Cardiovascular diseases in Bratislava, Slovakia. Dr. Ilkin is a young hard working doctor with demonstrated determination to learn more and more. He has graduated from the Slovak Medical University in June 2020.

Abstract:

Staphylococcus saprophyticus is a Gram-positive and coagulase negative cocci that composes the skin microbiota and can act as opportunistic agent causing urinary tract infections (UTI), being more frequent in sexually active young women. The ability of a pathogen to cause infection in the host is associated to its ability to adhere to host cells and to survive to host immune defenses. Our results show that clinical strains can possess differences in the protein repertoire, specially related to expression of virulence factors. Phenotypic, genotypic and proteomic differences reflect in the ability to survive during interaction with host cells and our data describes proteomic flexibility among S. saprophyticus strains reflecting in virulence and persistence. On the other hand, the proteins secreted by pathogenic microorganisms are the first molecules to interact with the host during infection, for this reason, the secreted antigens represent important targets for the development of diagnostic tests, vaccines and immunotherapies for infectious diseases. Our research group detected – by using immunoproteomic approach – epitopes of B cells from S. saprophyticus secreted proteins. The detection and selection of potential targets for the identification of S. saprophyticus can be used to develop new quickly diagnostic tools for detecting UTI.

Abstract:

Tuberculosis remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Although, WHO’s latest Global TB Report says that 2018 saw a reduction in the number of TB deaths-an estimated 36% of new TB cases remain undiagnosed or unreported, partly due to the limitations of current diagnostic tools used. Conventional diagnostic tests for microbiological confirmation rely on sputum samples, which can be difficult to obtain and have low diagnostic sensitivity in children, and patients with extrapulmonary TB (EPTB). A major component of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell envelope is lipoarabinomannan (LAM), non-covalently associated with the membrane and extends to the exterior of the cell wall. LAM from a culture is heterogeneous in size, branching pattern, acylation, and phosphorylation on the arabinan and mannan portions and has an average molecular weight of 15.4 kilodaltons. With bacterial replication and degradation in the lung, LAM is released, circulating in the blood, filtered across the glomerular basal membrane of the kidneys into urine. We and others have shown that urinary LAM is a viable biomarker for diagnosis of active TB. Many of the recent developments in the structure of LAM in urine, its antigenicity and availability in clinical specimens as a biomarker to develop affordable PoC tests will be presented.

Biography:
Dr.Delphi Chatterjee completed phd from University of London, UK in 1980 ,done Post Doctoral Fellow (1982) in plant polysaccharides at York University,Canada and Post Doctoral Fellow in ID (Mycobacteria) at Colorado State University (1985) ,USA.She has successfully administered research projects funded by the NIH, Philanthropic Organizations and Universities, (e.g. recruiting, staffing, research protections, budget), collaborated with other researchers, and produced peer-reviewed publications from each project. Her author or co-author of 130 research
papers listed in PubMed.She has been the PI or Co-PI of several NIH research grants, a member of special or ad hoc NIH study sections, all of which dealt with bacterial diseases. Due to recent efforts in our laboratory, they have now developed methods where LAM could be released successfully from complexes in serum and urine, and then detected in subnanomolar concentrations.

Abstract:

This lecture discloses an epidemiological mathematical model to predict an empirical treat- ment for dogs infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This dangerous pathogen is one of the leading causes of multi-resistant infections and can be transmitted from dogs to humans. Numerical simulations and appropriated codes were developed using Matlab software to gather information concerning long-time dynamics of the susceptible, infected and recov- ered individuals. All data compiled from the mathematical model was used to provide an appropriated antibiotic sensitivity panel for this specific infection. In this study, several variables have been included in this model to predict which treatment should be pre- scribed in emergency cases, when there is no time to perform an antibiogram or the cost of it could not be assumed. In particular, we highlight the use of this model aiming to become part of the convenient toolbox of Public Health research and decision-making in the design of the mitigation strategy of bacterial pathogens.

Biography:

Dr.María Pérez-Aranda graduated in Veterinary Medicine in the University of Cordoba (Spain) in 2013. She has specialized in Dermatology, obtaining the GP certificate in Dermatology of the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) in 2016. She combines her clinical work with her research career, doing her PhD degree in Pharmacy in the University of Seville in Organic Chemistry and Microbiology and Parasitology departments. Also she is part of PAIDI-Bio-307 research group at the Veterinary University in Cordoba. She has published numerous papers and book chapters in national and international journals and manuals and has contributed with several communications in national and international congresses. In addition, she is affiliated at the European Society of Veterinary Dermatology and the Spanish Association of Specialists in Small Animal Medicine.

Abstract:

The lifestyle transition in a bacteria from environment to opportunist results in either the loss or/and acquisition of specific genes. Such changeovers in turn will help them adapted to inhabit and sustain at the starting point for interactions with new hosts.
We have come across one such MDR Chryseobacterium gallinarum from OPD of a tertiary care hospital of India from a 20 years old female urine sample. WGS analysis of the bacteria shared >99% identity with one keratin degrading non-pathogenic C. gallinarum, reported from a pharyngeal scrape of a seemingly healthy chicken from the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The multi-drug resistant phenotypic profiling of the strain differed from the respective genomic information and found harboring two novel β-lactamases; an ambler class blaIND-17 and a serine blaCIA-5. Sensitivity to vancomycin by the isolate, the uncommon event of any gram negative bacteria further added to our curiosity which could be due to complete loss of LPS in C. gallinarum conferring polymyxin resistance. The discovery of mutated lpxD gene from genome analysis presents additional evidence in support, though needs further validation. Fluorescent Microscopic-Hela Cell invasion assay showed the infection ability of the isolate, a primary episode towards evolutionary transition from environmental to pathogenic.
So far our knowledge goes, this is the first report of the evolution of Chryseobacterium gallinarum from an environmental to a pathogenic multidrug-resistant bacterium harbouring co-resistance to antibiotics of last resort carbapenems and colistin.

Biography:

Dr.Enketeswara Subudhi Alumni of Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, Now Professor, Center for Biotechnology, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be)University, Bhubaneswar, India Since 2006, Before that Senior Lecturer at Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, New Delhi, Since 2004. Biotech Industry: Earlier to 2004, Product Development officer, International Panacea Ltd., New Delhi and Scientist, Quality Control, Jain Foods (100% E.O.U), Jain Groups of Company, Jalgaon
Present Area of Research: Understanding molecular mechanisms behind MDR in Bacteria, Metagenomics, Metatranscriptomics of microbiome of thermophilic ponds, Microbial community study of oral cavity, Repurposing of FDA approved drugs against resistant bacteria

Abstract:

A bidirectional dynamics has been observed between hyperglycemia and periodontal infections. Higher rate of activation pathways are induced due to hyperglycemia which is responsible for inflammation thereby leading to macrovascular as well as microvascular complications, along with oxidative stress and apoptosis. A raised level of inflammatory markers such as: IL6, TNF-α and C-reactive protein occurs in the pathological manifestation of hyperglycemic events which in turn prompts acute-phase of inflammation leading to impaired signaling of insulin function and insulin resistance. On the other hand, enhanced systemic inflammation due to periodontal diseases mediated by the release of IL6 and TNF-α happens when associated with hyperglycemia. A paradigm shift in the oral microbiota due to hyperglycemic condition results in an increase in the pathogenicity of associated pathogenic microbes as a consequences an increased inflammation and bone loss in periodontal pathologies occurs. Inflammatory periodontal disease and diabetes show the cyclic relationship between the two. Diabetes predisposes the individual to periodontal infections and also the later exacerbates or worsens the glycemic control in diabetic patients. Routine periodontal examination provides an insight for the early diagnosis of diabetes in undiagnosed patients and may reduce the worsening of metabolic control thereby preventing serious complications. Also the oral health of diabetic patients may be improved and well maintained with proper management of blood glucose levels. Therefore large-scale prospective epidemiological analysis are the only sought after approach to clearly bring in the connectivity between Diabetes and Periodontal disease.

Biography:

Dr.K. Swapna Kumari, BDS Dental surgeon from Utkal University, Odisha in the year 2011. Has been working as faculty in Institute of Dental Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Research Interest: Genomic analysis of oral microbiome in apical periodontitis

Abstract:

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the etiological agent of tuberculosis (TB) in humans, releases extracellular vesicles in vitro and in vivo. Like extracellular vesicles released by Gram-positive bacteria, mycobacterial extracellular vesicles originate at the plasma membrane. Mycobacterial membrane vesicles contain a broad range of immunologically active proteins and glycolipids that can influence host cellular immunity. When added to cells in culture, isolated membrane vesicles can regulate the immune response of uninfected macrophages, T-cells and dendritic cells suggesting a pathogenic role of membrane vesicles in immunomodulation and immune evasion. It has been recognized that vesicle biogenesis in M. tuberculosis is an active and regulated process, but the molecular mechanisms and factors involved remain largely unknown. Iron limitation, a condition encountered in the host, induces the production of membrane vesicles in M. tuberculosis. These vesicles contain the hydrophobic siderophore mycobactin, which can serve as an iron donor and supports replication of iron-starved mycobacteria. Based on these observations we have used a genetic approach to identify the principles governing iron regulated vesicle biogenesis and the molecular determinants of vesiculation in M. tuberculosis, which will be the focus of the presentation.

Biography:

Dr.G. Marcela Rodriguez is an Associate Professor in the Public Health Research Institute, Department of Medicine at New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey. She received her undergraduate degree from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Colombia SA, and a Ph.D from New York University, NY. During her training, Dr. Rodriguez developed a keen interest in infections diseases particularly tuberculosis. As a post-doctoral fellow (1999-2007) in Issar Smith’s lab at The Public Health Research Institute she was awarded a fellowship from the Parker Francis Foundation to study iron metabolism and regulation in M. tuberculosis. Dr. Rodriguez received an award from The Hispanic Center of Excellence at UMDNJ in 2011 and start her independent research program, which has been focused in the metallobiology of M. tuberculosis and its role in pathogenesis.

Abstract:

Acanthamoeba, a genus containing at least 24 species of free-living protozoa, is ubiquitous in nature. The successful treatment of Acanthamoeba infections is always very difficult and not constantly effective. More effective drugs must be developed and medicinal plants can play a significant role in the future of drug discovery. Our research focused on the investigation of anti- Acanthamoebic potential of Leea indica and its constituent gallic acid at different concentrations. Water and butanol fractions exhibited significant amoebicidal activity against trophozoites and most resistant cyst stage. Gallic acid revealed 83% inhibition of trophozoites and 69% inhibition of cysts at concentration of 100 µg/mL. Butanol fraction indicated apoptosis in trophozoites via tunnel assay. The cytotoxicity of fractions and gallic acid was investigated against MRC-5 and no adverse effects was observed. Gallic acid was successfully loaded within PLGA nanoparticles with 82.86% encapsulation efficiency while gallic acid showed 98.24% in vitro release after 24 hours. Moreover, gallic acid encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles exhibited 90% inhibition against trophozoites. In addition, gallic acid encapsulated nanoparticles showed reduced cytotoxicity towards MRC-5 in comparison with gallic acid, which evidenced that polymeric nanoencapsulation could play an important role in drug delivery of natural products.

Biography:

Dr.Veeranoot Nissapatorn graduated as a medical doctor (MBBS) from Lady Hardinge Medical College, Delhi University, India and Master of Clinical Tropical Medicine from Mahidol University, Thailand. She was working as a contract tenure as a lecturer and later an Associate Professor at the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Malaysia for almost two decades (from 1999 to 2017). She is now working as an Associate Professor at the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Thailand. Dr Veeranoot is actively involved in her research areas of interest: 1). Infectious parasitic diseases include epidemiology and clinically relevant, 2). Diagnostic challenges, 3). Natural products, 4). Water-based research, and 4). Health awareness of both anthropologic and zoonotic aspects. She is a coordinator of international research networks like Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD). She has published more than 100 papers including book chapters and is an editorial board member of reputable journals as well as an active reviewer of more than 30 international journals. She also serves as the Editor (Guest, Academic, and Associate), Speaker, Adjunct faculty as well as Visiting. She was the recipient of an outstanding Dr Matthew A. Eichler “Research Fellow Award” from Asia Pacific Consortium for Researchers and Educators (APCORE), Guam, USA, 2018.

Abstract:

Tuberculosis is one of the global health problems, the estimated deaths due to TB was around 2 million in the year 2013. Failure in early diagnosis and providing suitable treatment leads to increase the prognosis of the disease. Smear microscopy is used in many countries as a primary diagnosis of TB especially in the district poor facility laboratories, where smear negative frequency is high. This review aimed to reflects the importance of smear negative tuberculosis as a source of infection and poor prognosis of TB treatment and prevention. In addition to, discuss the possible causes and suggests solutions to improve the yields of smear microscopy.

Biography:

Dr.Tarig Mohamed Saad Alnour (M.Sc, Ph.D in Microbiology and Immunology) Assistant professor, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences – University of Tabuk Assistant professor, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, AlZaiem AlAzhari University Medical Laboratory consultant – Microbiology and immunology Interested in Tuberculosis research; Drug resistance development; and Immune susceptibility to infectious diseases.

Abstract:

The tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is transmitted by ixodes ticks and cause severe neuroinfections in human.
The regions endemic for the TBEV are expanding, and the prevalence of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is also rising. This disease is notifiable in Russia since 1944. Since September 2012, TBE is notifiable in the European Union.
According to the official classification, TBEV as a species is subdivided into three diversified and epidemiologicaly important subtypes, namely the Far East, the Siberian and the European. These subtypes correspond to three genotypes designated in the same way: (1) the Far East with the prototype strain Sofjin); (2) the Western with the prototype strain Neudoerfl; and (3) Siberian or Ural-Siberian with the prototype strain Vasilchenko.
Several other genetic variants of TBEV have been also found. They include genotypes 4 (represented by the only strain 178-79 from Eastern Siberia) and 5 (a group of strains analogous to the strain 886-84, which have been isolatedin Russia and Mongolia), as well as a recently discovered Himalayan group (two whole-genome isolates). These findings, regardless of what they mean for the epidemiology of TBE, highlight the necessity to reconsider the accepted classification of TBE.
The goal of the present study is to assess the genetic variability of TBEV markers and find genotype-specific markers based on the analysis of the materials available from the international database (GenBank).
Comparison of polypeptide structures of strains and isolates of viral RNA of TBEV from different sources in Europe and Asia allowed us to find genotype-specific combinations of amino acid substitutions.
All nucleotide sequences deposited so far fall into one of the described genetic groups.The natural sources of TBE located in Russia contain the highest genetic diversity of TBE. Five out of six known genetic groups of this virus were found here.
Strains Buzuuchuk from Kyrgyzstan and 178-79 from Russia (Eastern Siberia) possess unique genomic structures.
The Buzuuchuk strain from Kyrgyzstan turned out to be an untypical representative of genotype 3, as it does not follow the differentiation into three subclusters (the Baltic branch and subgenotypes Vasilchenko and Zausaev from the Siberian branch).
The strain 178-79 is the only known representative of the proposed genotype 4. The unusual structure of its genome is probably the combination of loci characteristic for the major TBEV genotypes.

Biography:

Dr.Tatiana Demina ,in 1987, after graduation from the Irkutsk State University, Tatiana Demina was directed to the laboratory of genosystematics in the Limnological Institute, where she as a research assistant studied the methods of molecular biology and participated in the expeditions on Lake Baikal.
Starting from 1991, she worked as a scientific fellow in the laboratory of viral genetics in the Irkutsk Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology.
In 1999, she defended the Cand. Sci. (PhD) thesis entitled ‘Characteristic of the genetic variability of tick-borne encephalitis virus strains based on homology analysis of regions of the viral genome.’
From 2003 to February 2011, she continued the experimental studies of the TBEV genomes.
In 2013, she defended the D. Sci. dissertation entitled ‘The issues of genotyping and genetic variability of tick-borne encephalitis virus.’
Starting from September 2013, she taught a lecture course entitled ‘Veterinary microbiology’ as a visiting professor at one of the departments of the School of Biotechnology and Veterinary medicine at the Irkutsk State Agrarian Academy. Since 2013, she holds a permanent professor position at one of the departments of the School of Biotechnology and Veterinary medicine at the Irkutsk State Agrarian University.

Abstract:

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is an aggressive T-cell neoplasm caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I). Therapeutic interventions have not been associated with satisfactory outcomes. We showed that the porphyrin metabolic pathway preferentially accumulates the endogenous photosensitive metabolite, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) in ATL, after a short-term culture with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA). PpIX accumulated 10 to 100 fold more in ATL leukemic cells when compared to healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Patient specimens showed dynamic changes in flow cytometry profiles during the onset and progression of ATL. Furthermore, 98.7% of ATL leukemic cell death in the ATL patient specimens could be induced with 10 min of visible light exposure, while 77.5% of normal PBMCs survived. Metabolomics analyses revealed that a specific stage of the metabolic pathway progressively and dynamically deteriorated with HTLV-I infection and at the onset of ATL. Therefore, this method will be useful for diagnosing and identifying high-risk HTLV-I carriers and high-risk indolent ATL who appeared to have developed or were likely to develop the aggressive subtypes with single cell resolutions. Photodynamic therapy in the circulatory system may be a potential treatment due to its highly-specific, non-invasive, safe, simultaneous, and repeatedly-treatable modalities.

Biography:

Dr.Takashi Oka received Ph.D., Graduate School of Engineering Science, Dept. of Biophysical Engineering, Osaka University, Japan in 1983 and DMSc (Doctor of Medical Science), Kochi Medical School, Japan in 1992. He was appointed Assistant professor, Department of Pathology, Kochi Medical School in 1983 and Visiting Scientist, Department of Tumor Virology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University (1983-1984). He researched in Department of Molecular Pathology, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, USA as a Visiting Assistant Professor (1992-1994) and became Visiting Scientist, Department of Cancer Biology, Harvard AIDS Institute, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA (1994-1996). Then, he was appointed Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, Okayama University Medical School 1996 and was promoted to Lecturer, Department of Pathology and Oncology, Okayama University from 2015.and Lecturer, Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University from 2019.

Abstract:

The spread of infectious diseases due to globalization and climate change has become one of the serious ongoing problems all over the world. Modern transportation facilitates fast movement of infected people and animals, as well as contaminated agricultural and biological products to new areas with naïve populations causing serious outbreaks and heavy consequences. An additional way of rapid spread of infections is through the increasing number of blood sucking insects in densely populated areas and the close contact between natural habitats and urban areas. These environmental changes have driven the adaptation of exotic pathogens to urban conditions, as happened, for example, with Dengue and Ebola viruses. The increasing number of immunocompromised individuals (including patients undergoing organ transplantation, anti-cancer therapy or suffering from AIDS) ease the adaptation of some animal’ infections to humans. Moreover, climate change allows blood sucking insects to spread to new areas and transmit infections to host animals as well as to local blood sucking insects, which become additional vectors for transmission of viral diseases.
In addition to clinical disease in naïve hosts, some viral infections also lead to abortions and malformations in fetuses. The most known viruses capable of inducing malformations in humans are Rubella and recently Zika viruses. In case of livestock animals congenital diseases have severe economic impact on the industry due to the dramatic decrease in number of healthy offspring. Death of the fetuses, abortions, stillbirths and malformations, as well as complications in parturition (often followed by culling of injured mothers and congenitally malformed newborn animals), and high proportion of death among young animals all heavily affect the agricultural industry.
Members of several families of viruses are capable of affecting fetuses and, consequently, newborn animals. These include foot and mouth disease, encephalomyocarditis virus and others belonging to the Picornaviridae family and viruses belonging to the order Herpesvirales, mostly viruses from the Alfaherpervirinae subfamily. Dengue and Zika viruses in humans and pestiviruses in animals are the main abortogenic/teratogenic viruses of the Flaviviridae family. However, the most known virus causing abortion storms in many mammals and humans is Rift Valley fever virus belonging to the order Bunyavirales. Viruses belonging to the Simbu serogroup, genus Othobunyavirus, of the Peribunyaviridae family are the main reason of abortions and malformations in domestic ruminants. Additionally, members of Reoviridae family (mainly belonging to the genus Orbivirus including bluetongue and epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses) may also cause pregnant abnormalities in ruminants and members of Paramyxovidae, Arteriviridae, Circoviridae and, Parvoviridae are also involved in cases of malformation and abortions in human and animals.
Almost three hundred aborted fetuses and newborn dead domestic and wild ruminants were tested for presence of viral RNA and DNA in the Kimron Veterinary institute, Israel, during routine investigation of aborted fetuses from March 2018 till March 2019 (13- month period). It was found that 10-30% of fetuses were positive in real-time polymerase chain reaction for viruses belonging to the Simbu serogroup. A less dramatic situation was observed with bluetongue viruses and pestiviruses, where viral RNA was detected in 1-4% of aborted fetuses or newborn dead animals. Infectious rhinotracheitis virus (herpesvirus) was found in approximately 1% of tested cattle aborted fetuses. Notably, most serotypes of bluetongue viruses and species of Simbu serogroup viruses which were recently identified in Israel, probably originated from Africa.
During the last two decades many types of viral disease were reported in areas, where such viruses were previously exotic. Strict control for food and biological industry products can prevent the spread of many infections among people and animals

Biography:

Dr.Natalia Golender graduated with honors the Veterinary faculty of Samarkand Agricultural Institute, Uzbekistan in 2002. She was working as a veterinarian in the division of poultry and fish diseases, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Israel during 2004-2010, mostly on diagnosis and study of avian influenza viruses. Since 2010 she is working in division of virology at the Kimron Veterinary Institute in diagnosis, as well as in experimental, clinical, genetic and epidemiologic investigation of several arboviral infections affecting ruminants.

Abstract:

With the increase in the consumption of dairy desserts and the need for a better control of food wastes, food spoilage has become of main concern for the dairy industry. It then appears essential to better understand and control this issue, which have been poorly investigated so far. Amongst the dairy desserts, we have focused our research on the famous French dessert “île flottante”, particularly sensitive to spoilage. This food consists of a sweet egg white foam floating on a vanilla custard cream, which contains highly nutritive raw materials, including milk, sugar and egg. We have shown that the bacterial spoilers are mainly Gram-positive bacteria belonging to the Bacillus cereus group, and the Staphylococcus and Enterococcus genera. Further experiments were designed for better understanding of the bacterial metabolic activities involved in custard cream spoilage events. Lactic acid appeared as a relevant marker for an “objective” detection of spoilage and the volatilome as a fingerprint for the assignment of a type of spoilage to a specific bacterium. These markers could be of interest for the development of new diagnostic tools for the dairy or egg product industry where objective criteria are lacking for the detection and control of spoilage issues.

Biography:

Dr. Clarisse Techer is born in 1983. She obtains a Msc degree in Microbiology at the Rennes 1 University (Fr) in 2009. In 2010, she works on the establishment of sensitive and specific immunological methods for the detection of staphylococcal enterotoxins in dairy products. In 2012, she joins the Animal nutrition and processing domain of the Avril group (Fr) and undertakes a PhD research in the joint research unit “Science and Technology of Milk and Egg” between Agrocampus Ouest and the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA). Her PhD work concerned the control of spoiling bacteria in refrigerated food composed of egg products. Since 2015, she works in the Department of Research, Innovation and Development (RID) of Mixscience (Avril group) in Rennes (Fr) as researcher in microbiology and then as RID manager. Her main current research interests include animal gut health management, search for alternative solutions to the use of antibiotics in animal feed, mycotoxin risk management and quality of finished products such as egg products. She is also supervising MSc and PhD students.