Background and Objective: Staphylococcus epidermidis is an opportunistic pathogen from pediatric bacteremia that is commonly isolated. Biofilm is the major virulence factor of S. epidermidis; however, the role of biofilm determinants in biofilm formation is highly contradictory and diverse. The current study aimed to investigate the role of polysaccharide-dependent and polysaccharide-independent pathogenic determinants in biofilm formation under physiological stress conditions. Materials and Methods: The isolates (n = 75) were identified and screened for the icaADBC operon, IS256, and an array of MSCRAMMs (Microbial Surface Component Recognizing Adhesive Matrix Molecules) through PCR analysis. The activity of the icaADBC operon was detected by Congo red assay, and the biofilm formation was analyzed through microtiter plate assay. Results: S. epidermidis isolates produced biofilm (n = 65; 86.6%) frequently. The icaA was the major representative module of the actively expressing icaADBC operon (n = 21; 80.7% sensitivity). The MSCRAMMs, including fbe (n = 59; 90.7%; p = 0.007), and embp (n = 57; 87.6%; p = 0.026), were highly prevalent and associated with biofilm positive S. epidermidis. The prevalence of icaADBC operon in biofilm positive and negative S. epidermidis was not significant (n = 41; 63%; p = 0.429). No significant association was found between IS256 and actively complete icaADBC operon (n = 10; 47.6%; p = 0.294). In the presence of 5% human plasma and glucose stress, S. epidermidis produced a strong biofilm (n = 55; 84.6%). Conclusion: The polysaccharide-dependent biofilm formation is significantly replaced (n = 21; 28%; p = 0.149) by a polysaccharide-independent mechanism (n = 59; 90.7%; p = 0.007), in which the MSCRAMMs might actively play their role. The fibrinogen-binding protein and extracellular matrix-binding protein might be potential anti-biofilm drug targets, markers of rapid diagnosis, and potential vaccine candidates of S. epidermidis involved in pediatric bacteremia.

Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Giardia lamblia infection and identify associated risk factors at both individual and community levels in a pediatric population in different agroecological zones of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to December 2022. Using stratified sampling, 1026 households were recruited from nine agroecological zones. Stool samples were collected from 1026 children up to the age of five years and processed for detection of Giardia using a commercial ELISA kit. Data on potential risk factors were collected using a pre-structured questionnaire. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors associated with giardiasis. Results: The study found that the prevalence of giardiasis in the study area was 3.31%. Children aged 13–24 months were found to be at higher risk for giardiasis. Illiterate mothers and fathers attending daycare institutions/kindergartens, mothers not practicing hand washing during critical times, households with companion animals, and homes where stray dogs/cats enter were identified as predictors of giardiasis at the individual level. Children living in sub-mountain valleys use un-piped water, inadequate domestic water storage vessels, drink un-boiled or unfiltered water, live near rubbish heaps or un-paved streets/pathways, and have unimproved latrine facilities were identified as risk factors of giardiasis at the community level. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for integrated intervention approaches at both individual and community levels to reduce the incidence of giardiasis in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Interventions aimed at promoting behavioral change and providing safe and adequate water sources, combined with individual-level interventions such as hand washing and awareness of giardiasis prevention methods, would be critical to addressing this health concern. Inter-sectoral collaboration between the health sector and other sectors would also be necessary to achieve meaningful progress in reducing the incidence of giardiasis in resource-limited areas.

Staphylococcus epidermidis encodes a variety of virulence- and pathogenicity-associated factors. These factors are insufficiently characterized owing to the absence of clearly defined criteria distinguishing clinically relevant S. epidermidis from commensals. The study analyzed the virulence-associated proteomic response of three S. epidermidis isolates of bacteremia patients of age 1 day to 5 months and three S. epidermidis isolates from healthy children skin. Isolates were characterized for pathogenicity marker mecA and commensalism marker fdh. One set of S. epidermidis isolates was exposed by growing in the presence of 10% human blood plasma, while another set was grown in nutrient broth only. Whole-cell proteins were analyzed through LC-MS/MS analysis (ESI-nano). In clinical isolates and in community isolates, 266 and 232 upregulated proteins were identified, respectively. Through in silico analysis, selectively expressed virulence-associated proteins were identified as being involved in stress responses, virulence regulation, toxin, and stress-associated metabolic pathways. This study concluded that S. epidermidis is selectively adapted to changing conditions. Clinically relevant isolates selectively expressed protein markers of virulence and pathogenicity, and therefore exhibit a distinct proteomic signature to understand virulence and pathogenicity of S. epidermidis. This study may provide insight into the virulence transition of S. epidermidis from a commensal background.

CHIEF ORGANIZER AND FOCAL PERSON MESSAGE Dear Participants, It is with immense pleasure and excitement that I extend my warmest welcome to you for the upcoming 1st International Conference on Recent Trends in Improving Resistance Against Diseases Using Molecular Genetics and OMICS Tools. As the Chief Organizer and Focal Person, it is truly an honor to host this groundbreaking event at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan in the picturesque city of Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Our conference aims to bring together a diverse and accomplished group of researchers, scholars, and practitioners who share a common passion for advancing the frontiers of science, particularly in the crucial areas of One Health, Combatting Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Livestock Improvement, and OMICS: The Future. Over the course of two enriching days, we anticipate dynamic discussions and thought-provoking presentations that will not only deepen our understanding of the challenges we face but also inspire innovative solutions. Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, nestled in the heart of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, provides a fitting backdrop for this collaborative exchange of ideas. The themes of the conference are not just topics of conversation; they represent the core issues that demand our attention and collective effort. One Health emphasizes the interconnectedness of various facets of health, underscoring the need for collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches. Combatting Diseases and addressing Antimicrobial Resistance are critical in safeguarding public health globally, and discussions on Livestock Improvement are integral to the sustainability of agricultural systems. OMICS: The Future heralds a new era of scientific exploration and discovery, powered by advanced technologies. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizing committee, esteemed keynote speakers, and all contributors who have worked tirelessly to make this conference a reality. Your commitment to advancing knowledge and promoting collaboration is truly commendable. As the Chief Organizer and Focal Person, I encourage you to actively engage in the sessions, network with fellow participants, and seize the opportunity to shape the future of scientific research in these vital areas. The abstracts presented at the conference will not only be published in the abstract book but will also contribute significantly to the global scientific discourse. Once again, welcome to the 1st International Conference on Recent Trends in Improving Resistance Against Diseases. Let us make these two days a memorable and transformative experience for us all. Best Regards, Dr. Tahir Usman Chief Organizer and Focal Person