Annals of Mechnikov's Institute

Theoretical and experimental investigation of antibacterial activity of lidocaine hydrochloride against clinical resistant gram-negative strains of bacteria

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. Today, antimicrobial resistance is the number one problem worldwide. One of the first mentions of the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria in humans was obtained during military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan 20 years ago. In addition, according to the latest data, it has found that Acinetobacter baumani, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiela pneumonia and Enterococcus cloacae are predominant among all isolated resistant pathogens. So, the search of new antibacterial drug that can deal with antimicrobial resistance is a task number one. The purpose of the study was to investigate in vitro and in silico antibacterial activity against clinical multidrug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, P. aeruginosa, A. baumannii, K. pneumonia and E. cloacae. Materials and methods. The object of the study was lidocaine hydrochloride. The molecular docking was performed using AutoDockTools 1.5.6; antibacterial effects were evaluated by the well and "dilution" methods method. Isolates were obtained from clinical samples including tracheal aspirate and broncoalveolar lavage. Results. Lidocaine hydrochloride was shown high selectivity to AHS LasI, Experimental research was demonstrated that against resistant strain of P. aeruginosa lidocaine hydrochloride inhibited growth – from 23.0±0.2 to 16.0±0.2 mm, against A. baumannii – from 24.0±0.1 to 16.0±0.1 mm, against E. cloacea – from 18.0±0.2 to 16.0±0.2 mm, K. pneumonia – from 21.0±0.2 to 16.0±0.2 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of lidocaine hydrochloride for P. aeruginosa, E. cloacea, A. baumannii, K. pneumonia was 0.00075 mmol/L. Conclusion. It has conducted theoretical and experimental studies of antibacterial effect of lidocaine hydrochloride. The theoretical results demonstrated that lidocaine hydrochloride highly selectively inhibited only one enzyme – AHS LasI. According to experimental results, it was shown that lidocaine hydrochloride effectively inhibited resistant strains of P. aeruginosa, E. cloacea, A. baumannii, K. pneumonia. So, lidocaine hydrochloride is a perspective substance for elimination resistance of antibiotics.

Determination of the dynamics of extraction of bas from the «Opornophyt» collection and its pharmacological activity

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

We paid attention to phytomedicines which are used in the complex therapy of inflammatory processes of the musculoskeletal system, because these diseases take the 3rd place in the world as a most common and the second as a factor in permanent disability [1] and are accompanied by severe pain. The aim is to establish the dynamics of the extraction of polyphenols and hydroxycinnamic acids from the original plant collection «Opornofit» by the filtration extraction method and to study some aspects of its pharmacological activity. Materials and methods. The plant collection «Opornofit» was used to study. The plant raw materials for which were harvested in the Kharkiv and Vinnytsia regions. The extraction of the plant collection «Opornofit» was carried out by filtration extraction in a laboratory extractor to a total ratio of plant raw material:extract (DER) of 1:5. The dry residue and the quantitative content of total polyphenols and total hydroxycinnamic acids were determined in the obtained samples [17]. Extraction was carried out with 50% ethanol at room temperature. To study the analgesic and antiexudative activity of the liquid extract «Opornofit» 28 male Wistar rats were used, which were randomly divided into 4 groups of 7 animals. The study of the liquid extract at a dose of 100 mg/ml was carried out on the adjuvant arthritis (AA) model, which is an experimental model of rheumatoid arthritis in humans and is caused by the administration of Freund's complete adjuvant. The comparison solution was diclofenac sodium at a dose of 8 mg/ml [18]. Results and discussion. It was obtained 10 drains of 50 ml from the plant collection «Opornofit» by the method of filtration extraction. In each drain, the dry residue and the quantitative content of total polyphenols and total hydroxycinnamic acids were determined. Given the amount of dry residue, the content of total polyphenols and total hydroxycinnamic acids, effective and rational extraction occurs up to drain 5 inclusive. The liquid extract «Opornofit» in the model of adjuvant arthritis showed significantly higher analgesic activity on the 14^th and 21^st day of use than the reference drug diclofenac sodium. At the same time, its antiexudative activity was slightly inferior to diclofenac sodium on the 14^th day of use and was higher on the 21^st. Thus, it can be noted that the analgesic and antiexudative activity of the liquid extract «Opornofit» reaches its maximum peak in the second and third weeks of treatment, which corresponds to the acute and peak phase of inflammation. At the same time, the reference drug diclofenac sodium is not recommended for use for such a long period due to the development of severe adverse reactions, which are absent with prolonged use of the liquid extract. Conclusions. For the first time, the dynamics of the extraction of total polyphenols and total hydroxycinnamic acids from the original plant collection «Opornofit» was studied using the filtration extraction method. For the first time, the previously predicted analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity was confirmed for a liquid extract based on the collection «Opornofit». It was found that in the model of adjuvant arthritis, the liquid extract exhibits higher analgesic activity on the 14^th and 21^st day of use and anti-exudative activity on the 21^st day than the reference drug diclofenac sodium. These studies became another step in the process of introducing the new original plant collection «Opornofit» and a number of phytomedicines based on it into the modern practice of the domestic healthcare system. Keywords: filtration extraction method, liquid extract, analgesic activity, anti-exudative activity

Molecular docking studies of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity and phytochemical composition of Rubus idaeus shoot extract

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. Currently, the primary treatments for inflammation include steroidal drugs (e.g., prednisolone) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac and indomethacin, which are widely used to manage both acute and chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. However, these medications are often associated with numerous adverse effects. As a result, the search for novel anti-inflammatory agents derived from natural herbal sources has become a pressing need. The aim of the work was carried out molecular docking studies of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity of identified compounds and investigation phytochemical composition of Rubus idaeus shoot extract by HPLC and GC. Material and methods. The quantification of phenolic compounds was accomplished through HPLC, the content of organic and phenolcarboxylic acids was determined by GC, molecular docking of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), phospholipase A2, nuclear factor kB (NF-kB), 5-lypoxygenase (5-LOX), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, myeloperoxidase, xanthine oxydase enzymes was carried out using the AutoDockTools 1.5.6 software. Results and Discussion. The 11 compounds were identified by the HPLC and 36 compounds were detected by GC. The epicatechin (882.00 mg/100 g), (+)-catechin (480.00 mg/100 g), ellagic acid and its derivatives (459.00 mg/100 g), citric acid (49.21 mg/100 g), vanillic acid (2.59 mg/100 g) and levulinic acid (64.67 mg/100 g) were dominated in the obtained extract of raspberry shoots. The free energy of (+)-catechin and epicatechin were the highest for the active sites of COX-2. phospholipase A2, NF-kB, 5-LOX, NADPH oxidase, myeloperoxidase, xanthine oxidase enzymes. Conclusion. Rubus idaeus shoot extract was dominated by (+)-catechin, epicatechin, levulinic acid, citric acid and vanillic acid. During the study, it was found that derivatives of organic (mono-, di-, tricarboxylic and fatty acids) and phenolcarboxylic acids do not possess a high level of anti-inflammatory effect. The optimal technology for obtaining an extract with the maximum level of anti-inflammatory effect is to remove organic and phenolcarboxylic acids and leave catechins derivatives.

Epidemiological monitoring of the hospital environment: control of antibiotic-resistant strains isolated from patients in primary health care settings

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Antibiotic resistance is not a new phenomenon in modern medical practice. However, today this problem is becoming critical in healthcare. Over several decades, pathogens of common infections have developed various resistance genes, which has subsequently become a global issue. Epidemiological surveillance is a critically important tool in the fight against antibiotic resistance, as it provides systematic monitoring of the spread of resistant strains and their sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs. Epidemiological monitoring data enable the timely detection of new resistance mechanisms, tracking of trends in their spread, and development of effective strategies for infection control and rational antibiotic therapy. The aim: Objective: to monitor the prevalence of hospital-acquired infection pathogens and study their antibiotic resistance. Materials and methods. The study analysed the results of epidemiological monitoring of the structure and antibiotic resistance of microflora in a hospital environment. Microorganisms were isolated using standard methods with simple and special nutrient media. The WHONET 5.6 system was used as an information base for epidemiological surveillance. Results. The article presents the results of microbiological monitoring for 2023-2024. The main focus was on identifying the structure of nosocomial infection pathogens and assessing their antibiotic resistance. The bacteriological study covered more than 800 isolates, among which Staphylococcus spp. (49.6%), Candida albicans (28.7%) and representatives of the Enterobacteriaceae family (21.1%) dominated. High levels of resistance to key groups of antimicrobial drugs (β-lactams, fluoroquinolones, macrolides) were recorded in E. coli (80,0–100,0 %), Klebsiella pneumoniae (50,0–100,0 %), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (100,0 %), and Staphylococcus coagulase negative (78,8 %). The data obtained indicate the significant role of the hospital environment as a reservoir of multidrug-resistant microflora and point to the need for a comprehensive approach to infection control. Conclusions. The feasibility of local microbiological surveillance, adaptation of antibiotic therapy protocols taking into account local resistance profiles, and systematic staff training has been substantiated. Given the changing biological properties of pathogens and the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, it is extremely important to comprehensively implement sanitary and epidemiological measures and use antimicrobial agents appropriately.

Scalp microbiome as a key factor in hair growth: innovative therapeutic strategies

Khrystyna Malaniuk — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. Disruption of the scalp microbiome is one of the key factors in the development of seborrheic dermatitis, itching, scaling, increased oiliness and diffuse hair loss. Traditional aggressive treatment approaches using antifungal, antibacterial or corticosteroid agents are often accompanied by side effects, disruption of the skin microflora and relapses. In this context, there is a need for alternative, microbiome-friendly innovative therapeutic strategies. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and recombinant peptides in the care of scalps with a disturbed microbiome, as well as to determine their effect on symptoms, microbiota structure and hair growth. Materials and methods of the study included a systematic review of the literature on the assessment of dynamics in individuals with scalp microbiome disorders, the use of molecular diagnostic methods, trichoscopy, questionnaires and dermatological indices. analysis of the composition of cosmetic products, the results obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics. As a result, it was found that microbiome-friendly products help reduce itching, redness, peeling, normalize sebum secretion and improve subjective comfort. Also recorded was an increase in microbiome diversity, a decrease in the concentration of Cutibacterium acnes and Malassezia spp., activation of the anagen phase of hair growth, a decrease in telogen effluvium and positive changes in diffuse alopecia. Conclusions. The comparative analysis confirmed the advantages of innovative microbiome-friendly therapy over traditional aggressive therapy: higher safety, better tolerability, a lasting effect and the possibility of personalizing treatment. The data obtained indicate the feasibility of introducing such products into clinical practice for the treatment of dysbiotic scalp conditions.

Analysis of the range of oat-based products

Anna Rudnyk, Olha Khvorost, Kateryna Skrebtsova, Yuliia Fedchenkova — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. The use of cultivated food crops as sources of medicinal raw materials is promising. Popular varieties cultivated in Ukraine are oat (Avena sativa L.) varieties Salomon, Neptune and Chernihivsky 28. Raw materials for the creation of medicines, dietary supplements, cosmetic and food products are grass of milky-wax ripeness, straw, grain and sprouts. There is data on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic, gastroprotective, hypolipidemic, cardioprotective, psychotropic effects, positive effect on cognitive brain functions. The presence of a wide raw material base, significant use in the food industry, diverse chemical composition, pharmacological activity, oat raw materials as a source of BAS require more in-depth research. The study of oat products on the Ukrainian market is expedient and relevant in this aspect. The purpose of the work. To determine the prospects for developing a medicinal product based on oat seed raw materials, outlining specific steps in the process of obtaining an API. Material and methods. Sources of scientific information (Google Scholar, Pubmed), online trading platforms (EVA, Rozetka, Prom.ua, OLX.ua), content analysis with subsequent data systematization and market segmentation. Results and discussion. As part of our research into the Ukrainian market, we identified approximately 100 oat-based products and analyzed their range by producer country. Currently, there are at least 15 countries producing oat-based products on the Ukrainian market. The lion's share is made up of domestic producers (41%). Moreover, most of the products are dietary supplements. Conclusions. The results of the study indicate that the domestic market of herbal remedies based on oats is represented by a fairly wide range. It should be noted that it is not import-dependent, since the vast majority of the nomenclature consists of remedies of domestic origin. Given the popularity of the use of oats as a source of BAS, the availability of raw materials, powerful chemical composition, and confirmed therapeutic effect, the development of domestic original monopreparations and complex medicines based on oat grass of waxy-milk ripeness is relevant.

Pleural empyema and exudative pleurisy: clinical experience, an integrated approach to evidence

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. Antimicrobial resistance is one of the leading challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. The rational use of antibiotics in the pharmacotherapy of pleural empyema and exudative pleurisy requires the availability of substantiated clinical guidelines, state support for access to effective drugs and their adequate prescription in clinical practice. The aim of this study is to analyze clinical practice in the diagnosis and treatment of pleural empyema and exudative pleurisy, conduct a systematic network meta-analysis of antimicrobial drugs used in Ukraine, and determine their level of compliance with modern international and national guidelines. Materials and methods. A comparative analytical study of 32 international non-proprietary names of antibiotics mentioned in the DUODECIM guideline (Finland) was conducted. The sources of the analysis were national and international clinical guidelines, the State Register of Medicines of Ukraine, and the National List of Essential Medicines. The clinical practice of patients with pleural empyema and exudative pleurisy was studied (456 people). 412 primary and specialized medical care doctors from different regions of Ukraine were interviewed. Instrumental and general clinical examination methods, network meta-analysis, clinical-pharmacological, normative and graphic analysis were applied. Results. The clinical practice of patients with pleural empyema and exudative pleurisy was analyzed. The analysis of clinical guidelines (Recognition) showed that the largest number of mentions (4 out of 4 possible) were received by amoxicillin, ceftriaxone, azithromycin, levofloxacin. The assessment of availability (Availability) showed that most antibiotics are registered in Ukraine, but not all are included in the National List or the Equipment Table. The largest discrepancies were recorded for clarithromycin, fosfomycin, doxycycline. On an integral scale (0–8 points), all drugs were divided into three groups: priority (7–8 points), auxiliary (4–6), and underrepresented (0–3). A survey of doctors showed that amoxicillin, azithromycin, and ceftriaxone are most often prescribed, although some of the most used drugs (e.g. tetracycline, ampicillin) are not supported by clinical guidelines. In terms of ATS groups, the highest integral scores were received by macrolides (7.7 points), fluoroquinolones (7.3), and cephalosporins (6.9). A network meta-analysis allowed us to identify a core of 12 drugs that have a high level of support for all criteria. Visual graphs were constructed that demonstrate the structure of prescriptions, regulatory basis, and practical use. Discussion and recommendations. Based on an integrated assessment of clinical, clinical-pharmacological, and evidence-based practice, it is proposed to include in the National List or expand support for such drugs as clarithromycin, doxycycline, fosfomycin, and cefepime. The need to harmonize protocols, ensure the availability of drugs in procurement, update the Equipment Table, and intensify educational activities among doctors is emphasized. Conclusions. The integrated analysis allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the compliance of antimicrobial agents with the criteria of evidence, availability, and practical application. Priority antibiotics for the treatment of pleural empyema and exudative pleurisy were identified, which can be recommended for inclusion in clinical protocols, formularies, and national lists. The results obtained are important for the formation of a policy to combat antimicrobial resistance in Ukraine.

Serological monitoring of vaccine immunity to diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis in the population of Kharkiv city and region in 2025

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Morbidity and mortality from infections and non-communicable chronic somatic diseases require constant improvement in vaccine prevention. This is dictated by the steady increase in the number of cases among vaccinated people, the increase in the frequency of childhood infections in people over 18 years of age, the increase in the number of complications after diseases, the rapid fading of vaccine-induced immunity with age, high mortality and the development of complications leading to disability, in particular with influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, and the difficulty of creating intense immunity in the elderly. Effective control of infections requires the actual achievement of protection against them in more than 95% of the population. Weak immunity and lack of protection against infectious diseases create a niche for the circulation of pathogens and are a source of epidemic and pandemic development. The response to an associated vaccine is much more complex, and after the introduction of such a vaccine into the body, antibodies are formed against an even greater number of antigenic determinants. The creation of persistent immunity to infections depends not only on the quality of the vaccines used, but, to a greater extent, on the immunoreactivity of patients. Materials and methods. The work was performed in the laboratory of immunorehabilitology of the Mechnikov Institute of Microbiology and Immunology. Studies to determine the level of specific immunity of the population of Kharkiv and the region to vaccine-preventable infectious diseases were performed using cross-sectional epidemiological analysis. The sample size was established in accordance with the WHO recommendations and the EPI INFO-2000 program and included 535 people aged 0–60 years. The inclusion and exclusion criteria for individuals in the study were as follows: absence of immunosuppression, malignant neoplasms, or severe hematological diseases. This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and the principles of Good Clinical Practice. Participants or their parents were provided with information about the objectives of the study, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants or their parents prior to inclusion in the study. All individuals included in the study completed appropriate questionnaires and blood serum was collected. The levels of specific antibodies to diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis pathogens/toxins were determined using reagent kits from IBL-Hamburg GmbH (Germany) by the standard method, according to the manufacturer's instructions. The studies were performed using a multistrip photometer for ELISA Erba LisaScan, by a quantitative method (units of measurement – IU/ml). Following the recommendations proposed by the manufacturer, antibody levels were evaluated as follows: anti-pertussis: below 16 IU/ml – no immunity, 16–24 IU/ml – weak immunity, above 24 IU/ml – sufficient immunity; anti-diphtheria and anti-tetanus: below 0.1 IU/ml – no immunity, 0.1–1.0 IU/ml – weak immunity, above 1.0 IU/ml – sufficient immunity. Results and discussion. Most of the adults we examined had protective antibody titers against diphtheria and tetanus. A significant proportion of them had high antibody titers, indicating the presence of strong immunity. The results obtained indicate a high level of anti-diphtheria and anti-tetanus immunity, which can be considered a result of adult population revaccination against these infections. On the contrary, most of the adults we examined had low titers of anti-pertussis antibodies. The average IgG titers of anti-pertussis antibodies in adults were significantly lower than those in the vaccinated younger children we examined, which indicates the need to develop vaccination programs for adolescents and adults. Martial law, complications of modern vaccination schedules, migration, and population aging, as well as refusal to vaccinate for various reasons, lead to the need to implement in Ukraine a separate system of monitoring the specific serological profile at the population level, which allows for the assessment of the landscape of protection against infections in modern society and identifying those susceptible to infections. Its implementation will allow clarification of the true values of collective immunity in different social groups and regions, better management of the vaccination schedule, assessment of the effectiveness of vaccines and vaccination programs, and will also allow calculation of the required volume of vaccines, diagnostic and medicinal products, as well as the resources necessary to ensure full protection of the population.

Research on the antimicrobial preservative selection for the cream containing glucosamine hydrochloride and miramistin

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. Rehabilitation of individuals with lower limb amputations is a complex challenge that requires combining modern medical advances, prosthetics, and physical therapy. The absence of domestic medications for stump care in the Ukrainian pharmaceutical market is particularly pressing. This creates an urgent need to develop new, effective soft dosage forms that meet patients' needs and support successful rehabilitation. Benzoic acid derivatives, such as sodium benzoate and benzoic acid, are common preservatives. Sodium salicylate is less frequently used as a preservative but has anti-inflammatory and keratolytic properties. The aim of this work was to select an antimicrobial preservative and determine its optimal concentration for a new cream containing glucosamine hydrochloride and miramistin, intended for skin care of the stump. Materials and methods. To evaluate the effectiveness of preservatives and their microbiological purity, two cream samples were tested: one containing sodium benzoate (sample 1) and the other containing sodium salicylate (sample 2). The following strains were used to assess the antimicrobial activity of the samples: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, and Candida albicans ATCC 885/653. Microbiological purity tests involved direct inoculation on liquid nutrient media. Specifically, 10.0 mL of soy-casein broth, thioglycolate medium, and Sabouraud liquid medium were poured into sterile test tubes, each receiving 0.1 g and 0.001 g of the studied drug. The cultures were incubated for 14 days in a thermostat at 35°C for soy-casein broth and thioglycolate medium, and at 25°C for Sabouraud medium. The antibacterial properties of the samples were neutralized using an inactivator containing polysorbate-80 (30 g/L) and lecithin (3 g/L). During the study, the deep seeding method was used, involving adding 0.1 g and 0.01 g of the drug to agar, which was then surface seeded with the same amounts. The number of viable microorganisms and fungi was determined after incubation. The criterion for evaluating the antibacterial effectiveness of the preservatives is a reduction in viable microbial colonies over time following contamination. According to the Ukrainian State Pharmacopoeia, for preparations intended for topical use, the logarithm of the decrease in viable bacterial colonies should be at least 2 after 2 days, at least 2 after 7 days, and subsequently, the number of viable bacteria should not increase. Results and discussion. The study results showed that after 14 days of incubation on Sabouraud medium, no fungal growth was observed. When testing samples of cream No. 1 and 2 with 0.1 g on soy-casein broth and thioglycolate medium, no microorganisms grew; at 0.01 g, no microorganisms grew in cream No. 2, but growth was seen in cream No. 1. Microscopy revealed gram-positive cocci. Confirmation came from seeding on differential nutrient media. Based on colony morphology and certain biological properties, the isolated microorganisms were identified as Staphylococcus saprophyticus. On differential media such as Chystovych's medium and Endo's medium, designed for isolating intestinal group and pathogenic staphylococci, no growth was observed among other microorganisms. Testing surface and deep seeding of preparations on Sabouraud plates showed no fungal growth. When cultured on soy-casein agar, no growth was seen at 0.1 g, while growth occurred at 0.01 g. The preservative effectiveness of a cream sample containing sodium benzoate was tested against strains: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, and Candida albicans ATCC 885/653. This sample met the "A" criterion according to the standards of the State Pharmacopeia of Ukraine. Similarly, the preservative effectiveness of the cream with sodium benzoate on strains Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 also met the "A" criterion. The preservative efficacy of the cream with sodium salicylate was tested on strains: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and it satisfied the "A" criterion as per the Ukrainian State Pharmacopeia. The antibacterial effect of the studied samples on test microorganisms was confirmed. Considering the diameters of growth retardation zones, the cream containing sodium salicylate demonstrated the best performance.

Some aspects of the health status of internally displaced persons in the city of Kharkiv (pilot study)

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The purpose of this study was to assess some aspects of the health status of internally displaced persons (IDPs) compared to residents of Kharkiv. Materials and Methods. Patients were examined at the Municipal Non-Profit Enterprise "City Multiprofile Hospital №18" of the Kharkiv City Council. The compliance of the subjects was determined using the Morisky Medication-Taking Adherence Scale – MMAS (4-item). The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was used to assess comorbidity. Results. In the IDP group (Group 1), there were significantly fewer compliant patients: 47 vs 63 permanent residents of Kharkiv (Group 2), p = 0,02. The HELSI application was used by 8 (17%) patients in Group 1 and 41 (65,1 %) patients in Group 2, p = 0,0001. Messengers for communication with a doctor were used by 14 (22,2 %) patients in Group 2 and none in Group 1. Patients in both groups did not differ by sex, age, or alcohol abuse. Overall, an equal number of them were smokers. However, in Group 2, there were significantly more male smokers than in Group 1. Group 2 differed from Group 1 by a significantly higher educational level (11 (23,4 %) vs 31 (49,2 %) had higher education, p = 0,006). CCI did not differ between the groups overall (4,5 ± 1,8 vs 4,2 ± 1,9 (p = 0,4)). However, when evaluating the indicator by age categories, we observed an earlier onset of diseases included in the CCI calculation. Blood pressure levels were significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2: systolic 151 ± 27,8 mmHg vs 139 ± 22,4 mmHg, p = 0,01; diastolic 92 ± 17,3 mmHg vs 85 ± 12,8 mmHg, p = 0,01. Dyslipidemia analysis showed that out of 17 patients in Group 1, it was an incidental finding in 9 (52,9%) individuals, compared to 4 patients out of 21 (19,1 %) in Group 2, p = 0,03. Conclusions. Access to medical care for IDPs may be complicated due to disorientation and adaptation in a new place, as well as insufficient awareness of IDPs regarding the possibilities of applications and messengers. CCI did not differ between IDPs and Kharkiv residents overall. However, when evaluating the indicator by age categories, we observed an earlier onset of diseases included in the CCI calculation. IDPs were significantly less adherent to the standards of treatment for hypertension and dyslipidemia and, as a result, had worse control of blood pressure and lipid levels

Antimicrobial effects of new dynamic aminoglycoside derivatives

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Introduction. Dynamic aminoglycoside derivatives are a group of antibiotics obtained by chemical modification of aminoglycosides. Chemical changes in the aminoglycoside molecule may include modification of amino groups, sugar residues, or other parts of the molecule. Dynamic derivatives of aminoglycosides can be an important tool in the fight against bacterial infections, especially in the context of increasing antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the development of new dynamic derivatives of such antibiotics is a very urgent task of modern medicine. The aim of the work is to microbiologically substantiate the feasibility of synthesizing new dynamic derivatives of amikacin and streptomycin for use in infectious diseases. Materials & methods. The antimicrobial effect of modified derivatives of streptomycin and amikacin, which were obtained by succinic anhydride succinic acid, was investigated. Unmodified streptomycin and amikacin in isolated form were used as a comparison.For microbiological research, 6 reference and 9 clinical strains of microorganisms were used. For microbiological research, 6 reference and 9 clinical strains of microorganisms were used.The antimicrobial activity of the substances was determined by the disk and "well" methods with measurement of the diameters of the zones of inhibition of the growth of microorganisms. Results & discussion. Regarding gram-positive and gram-negative reference strains of microorganisms, the antimicrobial effect of unmodified streptomycin and amikacin by the disk method was moderate. The antimicrobial activity of succylated streptomycin against S. aureus ATCC 25923 increased to high, and against B. subtilis ATCC 6633 and reference strains of gram-negative microorganisms - within moderate limits. The antimicrobial activity of succinylated amikacin against both tested gram-positive test strains of microorganisms and the test strain E. coli ATCC 25922 increased to high. In relation to the remaining tested strains of gram-negative microorganisms, the antimicrobial activity of succylated amikacin derivatives was moderately increased. The antifungal effect against the test strain C. albicans ATCC 885-653 of both unmodified and modified forms of streptomycin and amikacin by the disk method was weak. The well method revealed high sensitivity of both unmodified and modified forms of the studied aminoglycosides to all studied reference strains of gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. The sensitivity of all tested clinical strains of gram-positive microorganisms (S. pneumoniae 14, S. pyogenes 2432, S. aureus 124 and E. faecalis 42) to both unmodified and modified aminoglycosides by the disk method was moderate. Among the gram-negative clinical strains studied, the sensitivity of P. aeruginosa 18 to unmodified amikacin and streptomycin when determined by the disk method was weak. Other clinical strains of gram-negative microorganisms tested (K. pneumoniae 18, E. cloaceae 17, A. baunani 150) were moderately sensitive to both unmodified aminoglycosides and modified forms. Regarding modified aminoglycosides, the sensitivity of most of the studied clinical gram-negative strains by the disk method was moderate. The antifungal activity against C. albicans of 69 unmodified aminoglycosides was weak and increased to moderate against modified forms of amikacin and streptomycin. In the well-plate study, the antimicrobial effect of streptomycin after modification against most of the clinical strains of gram-positive microorganisms studied increased from moderate to high. The sensitivity of most gram-negative clinical strains to unmodified streptomycin was moderate. The antimicrobial effect of streptomycin after modification against K. pneumoniae 18 remained unchanged (diameters of growth inhibition zones (23.3±0.5) mm), E. cloaceae 17 increased from moderate to high (diameters of growth inhibition zones from (23.3±0.5) mm to (26.0±0.0) mm) and A. baunani 150 – within moderate (diameters of growth inhibition zones from (21.3±0.5) mm to (24.7±0.5) mm). The sensitivity of P. aeruginosa 18 to streptomycin after its modification increased from weak to moderate (diameters of growth inhibition zones were (14.7±0.5) mm) and (21.3±0.5) mm, respectively). The anti-candidiasis effect of both modified and unmodified streptomycin was moderate. The sensitivity of all tested clinical strains of Gram-positive microorganisms to unmodified amikacin by the well method was moderate. The antimicrobial effect of succinylated amikacin against most of the studied clinical strains of gram-positive microorganisms increased to high. When studying the "well" method, among the gram-negative microorganisms studied, the sensitivity of most of them to unmodified amikacin was moderate. The antimicrobial effect of amikacin after modification against K. pneumoniae 18 remained almost unchanged and remained moderate. The sensitivity of E. cloaceae 17 and A. baunani 150 increased from moderate to unmodified amikacin to high to succylated amikacin. The sensitivity of P. aeruginosa 18 increased from weak to unmodified amikacin to moderate to modified amikacin. The antifungal activity of both unmodified and modified amikacin against C. albicans 69 by the well method was moderate. Conclusion. 1. When modifying streptomycin and amikacin by succinylation using both the disk and well methods, an increase in antimicrobial activity was observed against both gram-positive and gram-negative reference and clinical strains of microorganisms. 2. The results of the study indicate the prospects for further research into the antimicrobial properties of new dynamic aminoglycoside derivatives. 3. Research in this direction will allow us to propose new approaches to combating antibiotic resistance of the most common pathogens of purulent-inflammatory infections based on dynamic structures capable of self-organization based on derivatives of aminoglycoside antibiotics streptomycin and amikacin, and capable of overcoming existing resistance in microorganisms.

The effectiveness of autovaccine therapy for local lesions with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection (experimental studies)

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Pseudomonas infection has different clinical forms, different localization and severity of the specific process. Clinical approaches to the treatment of different categories of patients are somewhat different. In septic manifestations of infection, the use of antibiotic therapy is important, in the transition to a chronic process and in local lesions, the use of autovaccine therapy is possible. Technologies for the production of autovaccines were developed by us in previous years based on the use of the latest method of photodynamic inactivation of candidate bacteria. The aim of this study was to study the effectiveness of the use of autovaccine therapy for local wound lesions complicated by Pseudomonas infection. For this, first of all, a model of Pseudomonas infection of local lesions in laboratory animals was developed. To prolong the course of local infection, a solution of calcium chloride was used. After the administration of this drug, 0.2 ml of pseudomonas culture at a dose of 6 LD 50 was injected under the crust into the resulting area. The procedure was repeated after 24-48 hours. For experiments on laboratory animals, two autovaccine administration schemes were used: the first - intraperitoneally (twice 0.5 ml with an interval of 5 days); the second - subcutaneously (three times 0.2 ml with an interval of 3 days). The effectiveness of vaccine therapy was assessed by indicators of clinical manifestation of infection, wound healing time and survival compared with the control untreated group of animals. The experiments were conducted on rats and white outbred mice. Infection of skin wounds was carried out with strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa freshly isolated from inpatients. The results of the studies showed that in the experimental groups of animals where the autovaccine therapy method was used, the healing process was significantly intensified. Wound healing time in vaccinated animals was reduced by two or more times compared to untreated animals, and the quality of healing of the affected skin area was quite high. At the same time, after 30 days, almost complete healing of the affected area was observed. Conclusions: The obtained results of treatment of experimental animals with specific autovaccines confirmed the effectiveness of such therapy in wound forms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. The tested model, which reproduces the wound form of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in the experiment, can be used in further studies of the effectiveness of drugs for general and local treatment, which is especially relevant in war time.

Blastocystosis: epidemiology and clinical presentation (Information letter)

Igor Kyrychenko, Mykhailo Biriukov, Sergiy Pokhil, Olena Tymchenko — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Blastocystosis is a human disease caused by the protozoan of the genus Blastocystis, which colonize the intestinal tract and, under certain conditions, cause its functional and pathomorphological disorders. Risk factors for infection with the parasite include contact with water contaminated with feces or with infected animals and people, consumption of contaminated food, and failure to observe personal hygiene and sanitation rules. In Ukraine, the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. infestations reaches 5.2–20.1% among the civilian population and 5.5–11.8% among military personnel and is close to the level of similar indicators in developed countries of Europe and the world. In 50–80% of people infected with Blastocystis sp., a manifest – clinically expressed course of the invasion is observed. Blastocystosis affects people with weakened immunity (more often) and with normal immunocompetent status (less often). The typical clinical form of blastocystosis is manifested by symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders: diarrhea, abdominal pain or cramps, bloating, constipation or stool instability, belching, nausea, flatulence, anorexia, uncontrolled weight loss, etc. In the atypical form of blastocystosis, symptoms of skin lesions (urticaria, itching) and joints (discomfort or aching pain) predominate. The most common complications of blastocystosis are the development of protein-energy malnutrition, irritable bowel syndrome, dysbacteriosis, severe forms of urticaria and persistent arthralgia, exacerbation of atopic dermatitis and arthritis, as well as the formation of long-term neurological and cognitive disorders. Differential diagnosis of blastocystosis must be carried out with infectious, inflammatory and autoimmune intestinal diseases.

Blastocystosis: principles, criteria and methods of diagnostics (Information letter)

Igor Kyrychenko, Mykhailo Biriukov, Sergiy Pokhil, Olena Tymchenko — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Establishing a diagnosis of blastocystosis is carried out taking into account epidemiological, clinical data and the results of special laboratory studies. For the diagnosis of blastocystosis, epidemiological diagnostic criteria are of limited value. The clinical diagnostic criteria for blastocystosis are considered to be the presence of at least one of several of the most typical symptoms of a gastrointestinal tract disorder (diarrhea and/or abdominal pain, spasms, bloating, nausea, unstable stools, etc.), which may be accompanied by manifestations of skin and joint damage. Laboratory criteria for establishing the diagnosis of blastocystosis include at least one of the following three: detection in the patient's stool of a diagnostically significant number of trophozoites (vegetative cells), nucleic acids, or antigens of Blastocystis sp. by microscopic (MM), molecular genetic (PCR), and immunological (ELISA) methods, respectively. For microscopic analysis, it is necessary to collect stool samples three times at intervals of one to two days, and for the diagnosis of blastocystosis using PCR and ELISA methods, it is sufficient to examine one stool sample. In stool smear microscopy, detection of any number of amoeboid forms of Blastocystis sp. and 5 or more vacuolar or other spherical parasite cells in the “high-power field” of the microscope (×400) is considered diagnostically significant, which is comparable to the descriptive terms of the approximate number of “moderate” (3-9 objects) and “many” (≥ 10 objects) in the “oil immersion magnification field” of the microscope (×1000). The PCR and ELISA test systems used must provide accurate quantitative detection of target DNA and antigens and be approved for the diagnosis of blastocystosis. Parasitological examination of MM feces is performed in compliance with the standardized procedures of the US Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, and by PCR and ELISA methods – in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions for the corresponding test systems. The results of the parasitological analysis of stool should be written out in compliance with international rules. In case of detection of Blastocystis sp. their approximate number should be indicated.

The Convergence of AI and Microbiology: Unprecedented Prospects for Precision Diagnosis and Therapy

Enass Al-Hadidi, Ali Dawood — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The transformation of microbiology research by artificial intelligence (AI) became possible through its optimization of microbial system analysis and global health research work. AI enables machine learning algorithms to undertake genome-based sequencing functions and disease identification activities as well as drug development capabilities which deliver biochemical research with exceptional speed and exactness. These developments establish basic instruments that help both resistance management and diagnostic enhancement alongside individual therapeutic innovation. The practical implementations from artificial intelligence include both vaccine development and strains engineering through microbial modifications which serve manufacturing development and environmental requirements and predictive systems for natural ecosystem variability. The functional abilities transform healthcare operations while developing agricultural practices and sustainability solutions which operate across global platforms. Nevertheless, the integration of AI technology into microbiology workfares various technical barriers. AI system use requires fixing data quality issues combined with algorithm clarity and unrestricted access and responsible management of all ethical questions. Moving forward with artificial intelligence integration in microbiology requires collaborative work between microbiology experts together with computational scientists and staff who generate governmental policies. AI development in microbiology will lead to remarkable progress through personalized therapeutic medicine generated from microbiome analysis as well as stronger outbreak detection abilities. Microbiological research development will experience a transformation because innovative collaboration will open new opportunities toward better human and environmental advancement and hope.