Immune System Deficiency Research Articles

The Current Status in Terms of Vaccination for Individuals Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals have an increased risk of various infections due to their impaired host immune system, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality rates. These patients severely suffered during the COVID-19 epidemic, the influenza epidemic and the spread of monkeypox. Reducing serious infections is one of the most important measures to improve HIV-infected individuals’ quality and length of life. Based on the preparation processes and their antigenic properties, vaccines are divided into several types, including inactivated vaccines, attenuated live vaccines, recombinant protein vaccines, toxoid vaccines, polysaccharide vaccines, polysaccharide (protein) combined vaccines, nucleic acid vaccines, viral vector vaccines, etc. With the innovation of vaccine preparation technology in recent years and the acceleration of vaccine approval and market launch, more and more vaccine products suitable for HIV-infected individuals have become available. Because of their deficient immune systems, the type of vaccines and the schedule of vaccinations available to individuals living with HIV are sometimes different from those with healthy immune systems. This article reviewed the current status of vaccination in and shed light on the vaccination strategies for HIV-infected persons in terms of their safety and effectiveness.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of doctors and nurses about the disposal of expired and unused medicines in Dhaka city

Improper medicine disposal practice has become a major concern in South Asian countries. Many healthcare professionals are not aware of safe medicine disposal practices. This survey study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of unused and expired medicines among doctors and nurses in Dhaka City. A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 150 respondents. Respondents were classified into two categories: doctors = 100, and nurses = 50. Data collection was done using a pre-validated, structured questionnaire. Collected data were added to the MS Excel spreadsheet and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Science version 23.0. Two-thirds of the nurses kept expired medicines in their houses as they did not want to waste them whereas 50% of doctors had expired medicines. Remarkably, 42.86% of nurses responded to immune system deficiencies resulting from improper medicine disposal, while it figured 28.16% among doctors. Alarmingly, 95.46% of nurses disposed of medicines via flush in the toilet/basin or dump in the dustbin, and 69.79% of doctors followed similar practices. 27.43% of doctors and 13.85% of nurses recommended reducing the number of medicines from prescription. It has been suggested that health policymakers work together with healthcare professionals and general people by launching public awareness campaigns.

EFFECT OF GENOTYPE AND AGE ON A DEFINED MICROBIOTA IN GNOTOBIOTIC SCID PIGLETS.

Severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) individuals lack functional T and B lymphocytes, leading to a deficient adaptive immune system. SCID pigs are a unique large animal biomedical model as they possess many similarities to humans, allowing for the collection of translatable data in regenerative medicine, cancer, and other biomedical research topics. While many studies suggest early gut microbiota development is necessary for developing the intestinal barrier and immune system, these animals are often cesarian section derived, leaving them uncolonized for normal intestinal microflora. The hypothesis was that an increase in complexity of microbiota inoculum will allow for more stability in the composition of the gut microbiota of SCID piglets. This was tested across multiple litters of SCID piglets with three different defined microbiota consortium (2-strain, 6-strain, 7-strain). All piglets received their designated defined microbiota by oral gavage immediately after birth and again 24 hours later. There was no effect of SCID genotype on the composition of the gut microbiota, but there was a significant effect due to piglet age. Additionally, all three defined microbiota consortia were deemed safe to use in SCID piglets, and the 7-strain microbiota was the most stable over time. Based on these results, the 7-strain defined microbiota will be added to the SCID pig husbandry protocol, allowing for a more reproducible model.

Immunodeficiency: Overview of primary immune regulatory disorders (PIRDs).

Primary immune regulatory disorders (PIRD) comprise a heterogeneous group of monogenic disorders that impact homeostatic control of inflammation and immune tolerance. Patients with a PIRD typically present to medical care with symptoms of autoimmunity or hyperinflammation as the dominant clinical feature, symptoms that include fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, organomegaly, arthritis, and colitis are commonplace. Notably, PIRDs are a distinct entity from primary immune deficiency disorders (PIDD), which are primarily defined by a qualitative or quantitative defect in immunity, which manifests as a susceptibility to recurrent infections. PIDDs and PIRDs can be challenging to differentiate because the clinical presentations can be similar. Red flags for PIRDs include multiple autoimmune diagnoses in the same patient, chronic lymphadenopathy, hepatomegaly, and/or splenomegaly, chronic colitis, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), Epstein Barr virus (EBV) susceptibility, recurrent or persistent fever, vasculitis, and sterile inflammation. For simplicity in this brief review, we limit our discussion of PIRDs to the following categories multiple autoimmune diseases, immune dysregulation with colitis, disorders with HLH and/or EBV susceptibility, autoinflammatory syndromes, type 1 interferonopathies, and disorders of sterile inflammation. Diagnosing a PIRD requires a broad immune evaluation for both immune system deficiencies and inflammation, along with genetic testing. Given the complex nature of these diseases, treatment often requires a team of subspecialists. Treatment, depending on the specific diagnosis, may be somewhat empiric with nonspecific immune modulators, symptom-directed therapies, and, in severe cases, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; however, with the increasing number of biologics available, we are often able to use targeted immune therapy or even gene therapy.

Store-operated calcium entry dysfunction in CRAC channelopathy: Insights from a novel STIM1 mutation

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular calcium homeostasis. This mechanism involves proteins, such as stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) and ORAI1. Mutations in the genes encoding these proteins, especially STIM1, can lead to various diseases, including CRAC channelopathies associated with severe combined immunodeficiency. Herein, we describe a novel homozygous mutation, NM_003156 c.792-3C > G, in STIM1 in a patient with a clinical profile of CRAC channelopathy, including immune system deficiencies and muscle weakness. Functional analyses revealed three distinct spliced forms in the patient cells: wild-type, exon 7 skipping, and intronic retention. Calcium influx analysis revealed impaired SOCE in the patient cells, indicating a loss of STIM1 function. We developed an antisense oligonucleotide treatment that improves STIM1 splicing and highlighted its potential as a therapeutic approach. Our findings provide insights into the complex effects of STIM1 mutations and shed light on the multifaceted clinical presentation of the patient.

Evaluation of serum zinc levels in hospitalized children with bacterial pneumonia, Urmia, Iran

Background: Pneumonia in children causes 30% of deaths worldwide, and the role of zinc as a micronutrient in treating pneumonia is unclear. Zinc improves immune system function and deficiency increases infectious disease risk and growth. This study aims to determine zinc serum levels in children hospitalized with pneumonia and compare them with those without pneumonia. Methods: A case-control study was conducted on 100 children aged 1 to 59 months between January and July 2022. 50 children were admitted to Urmia Motahari Hospital in Iran with pneumonia, while 50 other children were studied as a control group. Zinc levels were measured in two groups, and the data was analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The study found that the average zinc level in the case group was 67.35 ± 42.03, while in the control group it was 93.26 ± 41.80. The control group had a significantly higher zinc level. Hospitalization for more than 10 days was significantly lower than hospitalization for less than 10 days. Patients with complications had lower serum zinc levels, with significant differences in empyema, pleural effusion, and ventilation. Patients with wheezing, stridor, cyanosis, sleep disorder, and lethargy also had lower zinc levels. Conclusion: The average level of zinc in children with pneumonia was significantly lower than the control group.

Clinical Case Report on Electroacupuncture Combined with Warm Acupuncture for the Treatment of Painful Ophthalmoplegia (Tolosa-hunt Syndrome)

Tolosa-Hunt Syndrome (THS) is a rare and complex clinical syndrome characterized by severe headache, orbital pain, and multiple cranial nerve palsies. The precise etiology of THS remains unclear, though it is hypothesized to be related to immune system deficiencies, viral infections, or nonspecific inflammation. Due to its low incidence, THS is infrequently encountered in clinical practice. This case report presents a 39-year-old female patient with THS who was successfully treated with a combination of electroacupuncture and warm acupuncture. The patient's symptoms included left eyelid ptosis, left-sided headache, and reduced eye movement, which initially responded to high-dose steroid therapy but recurred upon cessation. After discontinuing steroid treatment, the patient received comprehensive acupuncture therapy aimed at soothing the liver and gallbladder, tonifying Qi, activating blood, and unblocking channels to relieve pain. Over the course of more than 30 acupuncture sessions, the patient's symptoms significantly improved, with complete resolution of pain and restoration of eye function. This case highlights the potential of acupuncture as an effective alternative treatment for THS, providing valuable insights for the management of this rare condition. Future research should further explore the mechanisms and efficacy of acupuncture in treating THS and other cranial nerve disorders.

Edukasi tentang HIV/AIDS pada Siswa SMA Negeri 1 Ternate

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) was a virus who infected white blood cells caused human immune system deficiency. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was a disease with syndrome caused by Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Even fluctuative but Indonesian data of HIV/AIDS keep increase every year. In the past eleven years, cases of HIV in Indonesia been in the highest cases at 2019 with 50.282 cases. In North Maluku, new cases of HIV/AIDS on September become 140 cases and cumulative data was 1.325 cases. In Ternate, there were 641 cases of HIV/AIDS which 135 people died. Data shows that HIV/AIDS cases increase on household and productive ages. If the incubation of HIV/AIDS was 8-10 years than infection must be on school ages. Therefore, education on school period become a determinant factor to prevent HIV/AIDS.

In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Parasitic Activities of Quinolone-Coumarin Hybrids Derived from Fluoroquinolones and Novobiocin Against Toxoplasma gondii.

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). In immunocompetent individuals, the infection is often asymptomatic; however, in expectant mothers and those with immune system deficiencies, complications may arise. Consequently, there is a need for new drugs that cause minimal damage to host cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro antiparasitic efficacy of quinolone-coumarin hybrids QC1-QC12, derived from quinolone antibacterials and novobiocin, against T. gondii. The derivatives were compared with novobiocin and ciprofloxacin during testing, with pyrimethamine used as a positive control. We conducted the MTT assay to examine the anti-toxoplasmic effects of the test compounds and novobiocin. Evaluation included the infection and proliferation indices, as well as the size and number of plaques, based on the viability of both healthy and infected cells. The in vitro assays revealed that QC1, QC3, QC6, and novobiocin, with selectivity indices (SIs) of 7.27, 13.43, and 8.23, respectively, had the least toxic effect on healthy cells and the highest effect on infected cells compared to pyrimethamine (SI = 3.05). Compared to pyrimethamine, QC1, QC3, QC6, and novobiocin Without having a significant effect on cell viability, demonstrated a significant effect on reducing in both infection index and proliferation index, in addition to reducing the quantity and dimensions of plaques ( P < 0.05). Based on our results, QC1, QC3, QC6, and novobiocin due to their significant therapeutic effects could be considered as potential new leads in the development of novel anti-Toxoplasma agents.

Anti-Herpes zoster vaccination in patients with dermatologic diseases: a position statement from the Italian SIDeMaST group of sexually transmitted, infectious and tropical diseases.

Herpes zoster (HZ) is a condition caused by the reactivation of varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the virus responsible for chickepox, which is the clinical manifestation of the primary infection. Congenital or acquired immune system deficiencies, as well as the physiological decline in immune response occurring in the elderly, known as immune senescence, can allow VZV reactivation and, consequently, HZ. One out of 3 people develops HZ during their lifetime. Moreover, thirty percent of the affected subjects develop post-herpetic neuralgia, the most frequent complication after HZ skin rash. Patients with dermatological conditions characterized by alteration of the immune system, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, bullous diseases, and cutaneous lymphomas, are at higher risk of developing HZ and post-herpetic neuralgia, even when their disease is in remission. In the present work, we described the currently available vaccinations against HZ and provided recommendations for the vaccination against HZ in patients with dermatological diseases.

Decoding the paradox: Understanding Elevated Hospitalization and Reduced Mortality in SARS-CoV-2 Variants

Introduction and aim: SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks occur cyclically, aligning with winter when vitamin D levels are lowest, except after new variant outbreaks. Adequate vitamin D is crucial for robust immune function. Hypovitaminosis diminishes immune responses, increasing susceptibility to viral infections. The manuscript explores the discrepancy between increased SARS-CoV-2 hospitalizations and lower mortality. Method​: SARS-CoV-2 mutants, including Delta, BQ, and XBB Omicron lineages, developed immune evasion capabilities, reducing the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent boosters. The failure of COVID-19 vaccines to prevent infections and spread to others, coupled with the immune evasion exhibited by mutant viruses, contributed to continued SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks. Interestingly, dominant new mutants, despite their increased transmissibility, have caused fewer deaths. This article scrutinizes the mentioned incongruity through an analysis of published data. Results: Achieving herd immunity and eradicating SARS-CoV-2 has proven elusive due to ongoing mutagenesis and immune evasion, leading to recurrent viral outbreaks. The failure to approve repurposed early therapies for COVID-19 by regulators, as well as misinformation and weak strategies undertaken by leading health authorities, exacerbated the situation. Repurposed agents, including vitamin D and ivermectin, have demonstrated high efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 from the beginning, and remain unaffected by mutations. Despite their cost-effectiveness and widespread availability, regulatory approval for these generic agents in COVID-19 treatment is pending. Conclusion: Regulators hesitated to approve cost-effective, repurposed generic agents primarily to safeguard the temporary approval status of COVID-19 vaccines and anti-viral agents under Emergency Use Authorization, which persists. This reluctance overlooked the opportunity to implement an integrated approach with repurposed agents alongside COVID-19 vaccines, potentially reducing hospitalizations and fatalities and preventing outbreaks; this led to the failure to eradicate SARS-CoV-2 and becoming endemic. It is imperative that regulators now reconsider approving affordable generics for SARS-CoV-2 to effectively control future viral outbreaks. Non-technical Importance (Lay Abstract) Adequate vitamin D levels significantly bolster the human immune system—deficiency compromises immune responses and increases susceptibility, particularly to viruses. While new SARS-CoV-2 mutations like Omicron are less severe, they are more infectious and adept at evading immunity from vaccines; thus, they offer a limited spectrum of protection and duration. Primary COVID-19 vaccines have reduced disease severity but have failed to prevent viral spread, contributing to outbreaks. Booster doses had little effect on the virus but caused immune paresis, thus increasing susceptibility to infections. Regulators should consider approving generic, repurposed agents like vitamin D and ivermectin as adjunct therapies to address this challenge and better prepare for future pandemics. Proactively integrating vitamin D supplementation to fortify the immune system can mitigate vital outbreaks, alleviate hospital burdens, and reduce healthcare costs.

Immune System Deficiencies Do Not Alter SARS-CoV-2 Evolutionary Rate but Favour the Emergence of Mutations by Extending Viral Persistence.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, immunosuppressed patients showed prolonged SARS-CoV-2 infections, with several studies reporting the accumulation of mutations in the viral genome. The weakened immune system present in these individuals, along with the effect of antiviral therapies, are thought to create a favourable environment for intra-host viral evolution and have been linked to the emergence of new viral variants which strongly challenged containment measures and some therapeutic treatments. To assess whether impaired immunity could lead to the increased instability of viral genomes, longitudinal nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from eight immunocompromised patients and fourteen non-immunocompromised subjects, all undergoing SARS-CoV-2 infection. Intra-host viral evolution was compared between the two groups through deep sequencing, exploiting a probe-based enrichment method to minimise the possibility of artefactual mutations commonly generated in amplicon-based methods, which heavily rely on PCR amplification. Although, as expected, immunocompromised patients experienced significantly longer infections, the acquisition of novel intra-host viral mutations was similar between the two groups. Moreover, a thorough analysis of viral quasispecies showed that the variability of viral populations in the two groups is comparable not only at the consensus level, but also when considering low-frequency mutations. This study suggests that a compromised immune system alone does not affect SARS-CoV-2 within-host genomic variability.

Hypovitaminosis D in university workers in Southern Ecuador: interactions between gender and lifestyle.

Hypovitaminosis D may be common in tropical countries and is linked to disorders of phospho-calcium metabolism, rickets, muscle pain, immune system deficiencies, and increased susceptibility to microbial infections. To assess the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in apparently healthy university workers in Loja, Ecuador. A cross-sectional study was completed in a private Ecuadorian university from May 2023 to September 2023, involving 440 participants. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire created to assess risk factors influencing vitamin D levels. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH)D concentrations were measured utilizing immunoenzymatic methods. Altered states (insufficiency or deficiency) of vitamin D were defined with serum values <30 ng/mL. Associations between vitamin D status and selected determinants were analyzed with independence tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Where possible, odds ratios (OR) were calculated using logistic regression. The sample consisted of 60.9% faculty members and 39.1% administrative staff; 42.7% were men and 57.3% were women, with an average age of 41.9 ± 7.6 years. Only 2.7% of participants were aged 60 years or older. The mean serum 25-(OH)D concentration was 19.5 ± 6.8 ng/mL. Altered 25-(OH)D levels were found in 93.4% of participants, with 94.0% showing decreased serum 25-(OH)D concentrations and 1.6% displaying deficiency states. Hypovitaminosis D was associated with sex (OR = 2.40; 95% CI: 1.3-5.57; p < 0.05) and sunscreen use (OR = 0.36; 95% IC: 0.13-0.99; p < 0.05). Hypovitaminosis D was almost universal among the apparently healthy university workers studied. The findings suggest that both sex and sunscreen use may independently or jointly contribute to hypovitaminosis D in these individuals. Further studies will be required to clarify this interplay.

Evaluation of the bone marrow transplantat recipient patients regarding fever onset, fever permanence, risk factors, and underlying causes, during the pre-engraftment phase

Background: Patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation (BMT) are at higher risk of immune system deficiency. The immunosuppression, followed by pre-transplant chemotherapy makes patients vulnerable to a variety of infections, and fever is one of the first symptoms, which could develop as a result of infectious or non-infectious diseases. In the present study, the features of the fever during the pre-engraftment stage in BMT-receiving patients have been investigated.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Sixty-four patients receiving BMT were prospectively evaluated during the pre-engraftment phase to evaluate the evidence of the febrile reaction. Data concerning the cause of fever, microbiological tests, the treatments and fever onset pattern, and treatment outcomes were recorded and analyzed.&#x0D; Results: 73.4% of the patients had autologous transplants, and the others received allogeneic. After transplantation, 75% of patients encountered fever during the pre-engraftment period. Of the 48 patients, 47.9% of the patients suffered from fever of unknown origin (FUO). Age, gender, underlying malignancy, type of transplantation, and acute phase reactants levels before transplantation were not associated with fever development. Among febrile patients, patients with autologous transplantation were significantly more likely to develop FUO (p-value = 0.036) There was also no significant difference in the onset of fever between patients with infectious fever and who suffered FUO&#x0D; Conclusions: During BMT, half of the patients developed a fever of unknown origin; nevertheless, it seems that patients undergoing autologous transplantation are at higher risk of FUO compared to patients who received an allogeneic transplant.

The prevalence of urinary tract disease in the elderly,Bani waleed, Libya

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is common infections occurred in elderly. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of the UTI in elderly people and to determine the most risk factors for serious clinical complications of UTI.&#x0D; Methodology: Data of a descriptive cross sectional study were collected from Central Bani Waleed Hospital, 106 UTI patients over 60 year old were involved in this study.&#x0D; Results: The most age group effected with UTI was 70-79 y (35.8%), followed by age group 60-69 y (31.1%). The men old people were more susceptible to UTI than women one (51.8% and 48.1% respectively), as well as elderly diabetic patients were susceptible to UTI more than non-diabetic (58.4% and 41.5% respectively). E.coli represented the most causative agent of UTI (71.7%). Cystitis (65.09 %) was the most prevalent UTI among elderly than pyelonephritis (34.91%).&#x0D; Conclusion: As the human age progress , the resistance of immune system deficiencies gradually become more susceptible to infectious diseases. The UTI one of these infections that can lead to serious complications in elderly immunocompromised. In addition, the comorbidities factors increase the directly affected of old people to UTI.

Investigating the Molecular Function of Gene Expression in Relation to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections

Background: Studies have shown that up to 68% of infants may be infected with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in their first year of life, and almost all children are infected by the age of two. In this study, using bioinformatics analysis, the genes in the pathways related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection were examined and nominated. Materials and Methods: By referring to the GEO database, the appropriate dataset was selected for analysis. This dataset included gene expression profiles in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Gene clusters with high and low expression were categorized. Rich databases such as Enrichr, STRING, and Panther were used for more accurate data evaluation. Finally, the candidate genes were isolated, and their protein relationship was also measured. Results: A total of 740 and 822 genes had high and low expressions, respectively. These genes can play a role in RSV infection pathways in children. The NOD-like receptor, Epstein-Barr-influenza, tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, necroptosis, and salmonella pathways are highly expressed, and the pathways of coronavirus, herpes virus, immune system deficiency, Th1 lymphocyte cell receptor, ribosome, NFKappa B, and PDL1 had low expression at checkpoints of the cell cycle. Conclusion: The present study revealed that important proteins and genes played a major role in strengthening RSV inflammation in children, among which STAT3, TLR4, RPL26A, STAT1, and MAPK4 showed a more prominent role in this pathway.

Boron Compound-Based Treatments Against Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infections in Lung Cancer In Vitro Model.

Multidrug-resistant bacteria is one of the most important public health problems. Increasing rates of antibacterial resistance also affect the outcomes of medical approaches. Cancer treatment because of immune system deficiency (chemotherapy or steroids usage) commonly can cause infection. Lung cancer is the dominant cause of cancer-related deaths, and infection is the most common cause of death among those patients. In this study, it was aimed to determine the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anticancer activity of boron compounds. A549 lung cancer cell line was infected with Acinetobacter baumannii (ATCC 19606), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 700603), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853). In order to determine the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index, antibiotics and boron compound concentrations prepared according to the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined by the checkerboard method. In our study results, the antibiofilm activity was an average of 46% in A. baumannii+boron compounds, 45% in P. aeruginosa+boron compounds, and 43% in K. pneumoniae. Cell culture analysis results show a decrease in viability and antioxidant capacity and an increase in total oxidant status after adding boron compounds to the culture. Immunofluorescence results show a correlation with MTT, and boron compounds increased 8-OHdG expression in comparison to antibiotic administration. In conclusion, boron compounds have promising effects on bacteria, especially in resistant bacteria spp.

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Allergic Properties of Colostrum from Mothers of Full-Term and Preterm Babies: The Importance of Maternal Lactation in the First Days.

Our narrative review focuses on colostrum components, particularly those that influence the neonatal immune system of newborns. Colostrum is secreted in small volumes by the alveolar cells of the breast during the first two to five days after birth. Colostrum is poor in fat and carbohydrates, with larger protein and bioactive compounds than mature milk. It plays a crucial role in driving neonates' immunity, transferring those immunological factors which help the correct development of the neonatal immune system and support establishing a healthy gut microbiome. The newborn has an innate and adaptive immune system deficiency, with a consequent increase in infection susceptibility. In particular, neonates born prematurely have reduced immunological competencies due to an earlier break in the maternal trans-placenta transfer of bioactive components, such as maternal IgG antibodies. Moreover, during pregnancy, starting from the second trimester, maternal immune cells are conveyed to the fetus and persist in small quantities post-natal, whereby this transfer is known as microchimerism (MMc). Thus, preterm newborns are deficient in this maternal heritage, and have their own immune system under-developed, but colostrum can compensate for the lack. Early breastfeeding, which should be strongly encouraged in mothers of preterm and full-term babies, provides those immunomodulant compounds that can act as a support, allowing the newborn to face immune needs, including fronting infections and establishing tolerance. Moreover, making mothers aware that administering colostrum helps their infants in building a healthy immune system is beneficial to sustain them in the difficult post-partum period.

The Molecular Investigation of the mecA Gene and Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis Isolated from Patients with Immune System Disorders at Omid Hospital, Isfahan, Iran

Background: At present, antibiotic-resistant staphylococci, especially methicillin-resistant strains, are prevalent agents of infections in medical centers and hospitals. The objective of the present investigation was to discern and trace the methicillin resistance gene harbored in two bacterial strains, namely Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, obtained from clinical specimens gathered from patients exhibiting immune system deficiency at Omid hospital located in Isfahan. Methods: The present investigation was conducted utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional approach. Initially, a total of 70 clinical isolates comprising 35 isolates of S. aureus and 35 isolates of S. epidermidis were obtained from patients who were diagnosed with immunodeficiency and admitted to Omid Hospital located in Isfahan, Iran, from January 2017 to April 2018. After the characterization of the isolates via morphological and biochemical assessments, subsequent evaluation of their antibiotic sensitivity was performed through the utilization of disk diffusion and Epsilometer test (E-test). Then, the identification of the isolates was conducted using the colony PCR method incorporating primers (MCF, MCR, GAIF, and GAIR) and elucidated through molecular analysis. Results: In this study, all isolates of S. aureus were resistant to cefoxitin and the MIC of this antibiotic was confirmed using E-test. However, of 35 S. epidermidis isolates, 30 isolates (85.7%) were resistant to oxacillin and 5 isolates (14.3%) were sensitive to oxacillin. According to the molecular findings, out of 35 isolates of methicillin-resistant S. aureus, 4 isolates (11.4%) had the mecA gene, and out of 35 isolates of S. epidermidis, 10 isolates (28.5%) had the mecA gene. Conclusion: The present study revealed that precise detection of methicillin resistance in the aforementioned bacterial strains necessitates the employment of both phenotypic and genotypic methods. The frequency of the mecA gene in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was found to be declining. The incidence of methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis (MRSE) is on the rise.

Investigation of the Frequency of Positive PPD Test in Candidate Patients Receiving Immunosuppressive Drugs Hospitalized in Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Years 2019-2020

Introduction: Tuberculosis is one of the most common infections that lead to death,; incidence of tuberculosis is higher in individuals with immune system deficiency. Candidates for receiving immunosuppressive drugs should be examined for the presence of latent tuberculosis, so that if this test is positive, appropriate treatment and prophylaxis measures for tuberculosis can be carried out for them. The purpose of this study was to screen patients who are candidates for receiving immunosuppressive drugs in terms of tuberculosis.&#x0D; Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on the patients who were candidates for injectable immunosuppressive drugs hospitalized in Shahid Sadoughi Hospital between 2019 to 2020. Tuberculin skin test (TST) was taken from all eligible patients by the infection control unit of the hospital. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS V16. The P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.&#x0D; Results: Participants were divided into three groups: healthy (TST=0-4), suspected (TST=5-9) and infected with tuberculosis (TST≥10); the frequency in the three groups was 83 (23.9%), 164 respectively. (47.3%) and 100 (28.8%). There was a significant relationship between the reason for referral to receive immunosuppressive drugs and the results of the TST test (P=0.003).&#x0D; Conclusion: If the patients with rheumatology, dermatology disorders and kidney transplant candidates receive immunosuppressive drugs, they are at high risk of primary tuberculosis infection and activation of latent tuberculosis, and it is necessary for health workers to pay more attention to this issue