Niamatullah Kakar - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Niamatullah Kakar

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Newer Commercial Serological (ICT) Test For the Diagnosis of Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis in TB Endemic Areas

IOSR Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences, 2014

We assessed the efficacy of the diagnostic serological test (CTK Biotech Inc and ACON Laboratorie... more We assessed the efficacy of the diagnostic serological test (CTK Biotech Inc and ACON Laboratories, Inc, USA) for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in TB endemic area of Quetta Pakistan. Among 223 suspected PTB respondents, forty patients were declared as having tuberculosis on the basis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis positive culture being the Gold standard. IgG/IgA testing in a high prevalence area may not be entirely useful. We were more interested in the presence of IgM antibodies based on which patients were classified as positive. The sensitivity of the serological test was very poor than that of sputum culture (70% versus IgM 0%, IgG 55%, IgA 15%).

Research paper thumbnail of Zoonotic brucellosis: Seroprevalence and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan

World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Jun 30, 2020

The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and differen... more The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan. A total of 500 blood samples, comprising of 250 each from sheep and goat were randomly collected from out skirts of District Quetta, Balochistan. Out of the 250 blood samples 125 were collected from each males and females. The serum samples were tested for the presence of anti-Brucella antibodies by Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), Serum Plate Agglutination Test (SPAT) and Serum Tube Agglutination Test (STAT). The overall prevalence of brucellosis in sheep was recorded as 16.4%, 13.2% and 10.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively and in goat was found to be 11.6%, 8.8% and 6.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The sex-wise prevalence of brucellosis in Ram (male sheep) was recorded as 12.8%, 8.8% and 7.2% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively; while in Ewe (female sheep) it was 20.0%, 17.6% and 14.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT respectively. In Buck (male goat), the seroprevalence of brucellosis was recorded 8.0%, 5.6% and 3.2%, whereas in Dew (female goat) it was 15.2%, 12.0% and 10.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The prevalence of brucellosis was relatively higher in ovine (sheep) as compared to caprine (goat), irrespective of techniques used. It was also concluded that brucellosis was higher in females than in males in both sheep and goat. Among all the serological tests applied in the present study, RBPT was found to be more sensitive and showed higher prevalence of brucellosis in sheep as well as in goat population.

Research paper thumbnail of Pneumococcal metabolic adaptation and colonization is regulated by the two-component regulatory system 08

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory), Apr 12, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Mycotoxins in Dairy Feed and its Harmful Impact on Animal Health: Diagnostic Aids and Treatment: A Big Animal Health Challenge

Open access research journal of chemistry and pharmacy, Mar 30, 2022

Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most impor... more Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most important steps in getting the high productions from dairy cattle. Mycotoxins are chemicals produced by fungi (molds) under certain conditions, not essential for fungal itself growth or reproduction, having toxic affects to animals and humans. More than 250 mycotoxins have been detected. For many toxins, their toxicological characteristics have not been fully determined until now. There are many kinds of mycotoxins, causing different kinds of mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxins enter into the body, usually by consumption of contaminated feed, do acts on cells causing the mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxicoses are not contagious, nor is there significant stimulation of the immune system. Aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, commonly found in corn, milo, cottonseed and peanuts, while its concentrations in grains is very enough to cause acute aflatoxicosis. The five important aflatoxins are aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, and M1. Aflatoxin is a liver poison (hepatotoxin) in all species that consume it, however, ruminants tolerate it better than do monogastrics or poultry. It causes liver damage and liver cancer at high doses. Aflatoxin exposure leads to depress the immune system, causes liver damage, liver cancer and abortions. Depression, anorexia, reduced gain or milk production, subnormal body temperature and slow rumen motility are the clinical signs of aflatoxicosis. Ingestion of ergot alkaloids contain in the sclerotia of Claviceps spp, commonly found in cereal grains causing Ergot toxicosis, leads to cause agalactia in lactating females. Fumonisins are produced by Fusarium moniliforme and F. proliferatum, found primarily in white and yellow corn, having three kinds, fumonisins B1, B2, and B3. Equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELE) is a fatal disease of horses and Porcine pulmonary syndrome in swine are caused by fumonisins, through inhibition of enzymes involved in the production of sphingosine (important component of cell membranes for neurons) from sphinganine. Vomitoxin or Deoxynivalenol is produced by Fusarium roseum (F. graminearum) and F. moniliforme. It is commonly found in corn, wheat, barley, milo and rarely found in oats, hay or forages. Vomitoxin is not very toxic, associated with feed refusal and decreased feed consumption leads to affect the animal performance by inhibiting the protein and nucleic acid synthesis. Zearalenone is produced by Fusarium roseum (F. graminearum) and F. moniliforme, found in corn, wheat, barley, milo and occasionally in oats. Zearalenone is a chemical that can act similarly to the female sex hormone estrogen, leads to disrupt the estrus cycle in females, causes infertility and feminization in males, and precocious puberty in sexually immature females. Zearalenone content typically found in grains. Its production become increase due to unusual environmental conditions during the growing season and insufficiently stored dried grain usually having enough adversely effect on animals. Mycotoxins present in the feed/ration can be treated by adopting Modern agricultural practices, giving usually supportive therapy and Antidotes, giving activated charcoal to decrease the ingested mycotoxins absorption, using feed additives as mycotoxins binders, removing, stopping and preventing further exposure of contamination to animal feed.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of Growth Promoter in Feed: Tylosin Phosphate and Oxytetracycline Di-Hydrate Show Synergistic Effect on the Haematological Parameters and Biochemical Components of Broiler Chicken Blood

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 2022

Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the... more Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the experiment. NK and ISS analysed the data and wrote the paper. NK, ISS and MMT critically reviewed the paper and all authors collectively approved the final version.

Research paper thumbnail of Study on Accuracy and Efficiency of Molecular Diagnostic Techniques used for Tuberculosis and Analysis of Associated Risk Factors for Tuberculosis in Jail Inmates of Quetta, Pakistan

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, Jun 1, 2018

11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 ... more 11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 Besides the list of 41 priority countries, a list of 63 countries has also been used (this list was featured in global TB reporting 2007−2009, but not other years), primarily to expand advocacy efforts related to implementation of collaborative TB/HIV activities. In addition to the 41 countries (shown in Table 1), this included any other countries classified by UNAIDS as having a generalised HIV epidemic in 2004: Bahamas,

Research paper thumbnail of Clinical Manifestations and Distribution of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Pakistan

Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2011

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a rising epidemic in Pakistan. It is a major public health proble... more Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a rising epidemic in Pakistan. It is a major public health problem in the country especially alongside regions bordering the neighboring Afghanistan and cities that have had the maximum influx of refugees. The purpose of our paper is to highlight the diverse clinical manifestations of the disease seen along with the geographic areas affected, where the hosts are particularly susceptible. This would also be helpful in presenting the broad spectrum of the disease for training of health care workers and help in surveillance of CL in the region. The increased clinical diversity and the spectrum of phenotypic manifestations noted underscore the fact that the diagnosis of CL should be not only considered when dealing with common skin lesions, but also highly suspected by dermatologists and even primary care physicians even when encountering uncommon pathologies. Hence, we would strongly advocate that since most of these patients present to local health care centers and hospitals, primary care practitioners and even lady health workers (LHWs) should be trained in identification of at least the common presentations of CL.

Research paper thumbnail of Genome sequencing and analysis of genomic diversity in the locally transmitted SARS-CoV-2 in Pakistan

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, Sep 1, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Pneumococcal Metabolic Adaptation and Colonization Are Regulated by the Two-Component Regulatory System 08

mSphere, Jun 27, 2018

Streptococcus pneumoniae two-component regulatory systems (TCS) enable adaptation and ensure its ... more Streptococcus pneumoniae two-component regulatory systems (TCS) enable adaptation and ensure its maintenance in host environments. This study deciphers the impact of TCS08 on pneumococcal gene expression and its role in metabolic and pathophysiological processes. Transcriptome analysis and real-time PCR demonstrated a regulatory effect of TCS08 on genes involved mainly in environmental information processing, intermediary metabolism, and colonization by S. pneumoniae D39 and TIGR4. Striking examples are genes for fatty acid biosynthesis, genes of the arginine deiminase system, and the psa operon encoding the manganese ABC transport system. In silico analysis confirmed that TCS08 is homologous to Staphylococcus aureus SaeRS, and a SaeR-like binding motif is displayed in the promoter region of pavB, the upstream gene of the tcs08 operon encoding a surfaceexposed adhesin. Indeed, PavB is regulated by TCS08 as confirmed by immunoblotting and surface abundance assays. Similarly, pilus-1 of TIGR4 is regulated by TCS08. Finally, in vivo infections using the acute pneumonia and sepsis models showed a strain-dependent effect. Loss of function of HK08 or TCS08 attenuated D39 virulence in lung infections. The RR08 deficiency attenuated TIGR4 in pneumonia, while there was no effect on sepsis. In contrast, lack of HK08 procured a highly virulent TIGR4 phenotype in both pneumonia and sepsis infections. Taken together, these data indicate the importance of TCS08 in pneumococcal fitness to adapt to the milieu of the respiratory tract during colonization. IMPORTANCE Streptococcus pneumoniae interplays with its environment by using 13 two-component regulatory systems and one orphan response regulator. These systems are involved in the sensing of environmental signals, thereby modulating pneumococcal pathophysiology. This study aimed to understand the functional role of genes subject to control by the TCS08. The identified genes play a role in transport of compounds such as sugars or amino acids. In addition, the intermediary metabolism and colonization factors are modulated by TCS08. Thus, TCS08 regulates genes involved in maintaining pneumococcal physiology, transport capacity, and adhesive factors to enable optimal colonization, which represents a prerequisite for invasive pneumococcal disease.

Research paper thumbnail of Genome sequencing and analysis of genomic diversity in the locally transmitted SARS‐CoV‐2 in Pakistan

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases

Research paper thumbnail of Deciphering the influence of Streptococcus pneumoniae global regulators on fitness and virulence

zeigen auch die Veränderungen der Proteinsynthese während des logarithmischen Wachstums von S. pn... more zeigen auch die Veränderungen der Proteinsynthese während des logarithmischen Wachstums von S. pneumoniae. Mit diesen Studien konnte gezeigt werden, wie sich S. pneumonaie an verschiedene Wachstumsbedingungen durch Veränderung des Proteoms anpassen kann, und welchen Einfluß regulatorische Proteine auf die Verwertung verfügbarer Kohlenstoff-und Stickstoffquellen haben.

Research paper thumbnail of Mycotoxins in Dairy Feed and its Harmful Impact on Animal Health: Diagnostic Aids and Treatment: A Big Animal Health Challenge

Open Access Research Journal of Chemistry and Pharmacy, 2022

Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most impor... more Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most important steps in getting the high productions from dairy cattle. Mycotoxins are chemicals produced by fungi (molds) under certain conditions, not essential for fungal itself growth or reproduction, having toxic affects to animals and humans. More than 250 mycotoxins have been detected. For many toxins, their toxicological characteristics have not been fully determined until now. There are many kinds of mycotoxins, causing different kinds of mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxins enter into the body, usually by consumption of contaminated feed, do acts on cells causing the mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxicoses are not contagious, nor is there significant stimulation of the immune system. Aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, commonly found in corn, milo, cottonseed and peanuts, while its concentrations in grains is very enough to cause acute aflatoxicosis. The five important aflato...

Research paper thumbnail of Use of Growth Promoter in Feed: Tylosin Phosphate and Oxytetracycline Di-Hydrate Show Synergistic Effect on the Haematological Parameters and Biochemical Components of Broiler Chicken Blood

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 2022

Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the... more Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the experiment. NK and ISS analysed the data and wrote the paper. NK, ISS and MMT critically reviewed the paper and all authors collectively approved the final version.

Research paper thumbnail of Nutraceutical Applications Of Copper, Manganese And Zinc In Rumen Metabolism And Body Immune Processes

The key component in striving towards optimum animal production are possible by the provision of ... more The key component in striving towards optimum animal production are possible by the provision of essential nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins to livestock in a balance pattern. The important role of trace minerals in term of animal production is far away very much highlighted broadly, as the trace elements are recognized with the most significant functional components of numerous metabolic processes. The body has the basic needs of trace minerals in trace amounts, ranging from 0.10 to 50.0 mg/kg of dry matter in the feed of dairy animals. These trace elements are essential for all biochemical processes of the body that supports the growth and the appropriate maintenance. Such as, copper (Cu) is necessary for the function of the superoxide dismutase and in the removal of toxic by-products of metabolic pathways. The exclusion of these toxic by-products permits metabolism to perform efficiently, uninhibited by damaging oxygen free radicals. Manganese(...

Research paper thumbnail of In vivo proteome analysis of Streptococcus pneumoniae during CSF infections deciphers mechanisms of adaptation

Research paper thumbnail of Global Impact of Obesity and Diabetes on the Increase Incidence and Prevalence of Chronic Kidney disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): A Systematic Review

Background: Obesity and diabetes are the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stag... more Background: Obesity and diabetes are the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stage renal disease (ESRD). The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of obesity and diabetes on CKD and ESRD incidence and prevalence. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted from 2001 to 2018. 494 articles were retrieved via PubMed and 125 articles through Google scholar and reference list of the selected articles. Among which thirty (30) studies met our inclusion criteria consisting of 17 cohorts, 11 cross-sectional, and 2 case-control studies.Results: Majority of the studies indicated direct relationship between body mass index (BMI) and ESRD risk. Notably, the association of obesity and diabetes potentially increases the incidence and prevalence of CKD and ESRD. Results from the cohort, case-control and cross-sectional studies pointed out a positive association between obesity, diabetes and risks for renal disease outcomes. Even though many complications may...

Research paper thumbnail of Classification, Etiology, Similarities and Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Canine and Feline with Respect to Humans

Diabetes mellitus relates a metabolic disorder of collective etiology which is characterized by c... more Diabetes mellitus relates a metabolic disorder of collective etiology which is characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia caused due to disturbances of carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism due to impaired β-cell function of pancreas or insulin resistance or both. Diabetes mellitus is a common disease in canine and feline. The most common form of diabetes in canine resembles type 1 diabetes in humans. Studies suggest that genetics, an immunemediated component, and environmental factors are involved in the development of diabetes in dogs. A variant of gestational diabetes also occurs in canine. The most common form of diabetes in feline resembles type 2 diabetes in humans. A major risk factor in feline is obesity. Obese cats have altered expression of several insulin signaling genes and glucose transporters and are leptin resistant. Feline also form amyloid deposits within the islets of the pancreas and develop glucotoxicity when exposed to prolonged hyperglycemia. An essential asp...

Research paper thumbnail of Zoonotic brucellosis: Seroprevalence and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan

World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2020

The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and differen... more The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan. A total of 500 blood samples, comprising of 250 each from sheep and goat were randomly collected from out skirts of District Quetta, Balochistan. Out of the 250 blood samples 125 were collected from each males and females. The serum samples were tested for the presence of anti-Brucella antibodies by Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), Serum Plate Agglutination Test (SPAT) and Serum Tube Agglutination Test (STAT). The overall prevalence of brucellosis in sheep was recorded as 16.4%, 13.2% and 10.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively and in goat was found to be 11.6%, 8.8% and 6.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The sex-wise prevalence of brucellosis in Ram (male sheep) was recorded as 12.8%, 8.8% and 7.2% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively; while in Ewe (female sheep) it was 20.0%, 17.6% and 14.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT respectively. In Buck (male goat), the seroprevalence of brucellosis was recorded 8.0%, 5.6% and 3.2%, whereas in Dew (female goat) it was 15.2%, 12.0% and 10.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The prevalence of brucellosis was relatively higher in ovine (sheep) as compared to caprine (goat), irrespective of techniques used. It was also concluded that brucellosis was higher in females than in males in both sheep and goat. Among all the serological tests applied in the present study, RBPT was found to be more sensitive and showed higher prevalence of brucellosis in sheep as well as in goat population.

Research paper thumbnail of Study on Accuracy and Efficiency of Molecular Diagnostic Techniques used for Tuberculosis and Analysis of Associated Risk Factors for Tuberculosis in Jail Inmates of Quetta, Pakistan

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 2018

11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 ... more 11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 Besides the list of 41 priority countries, a list of 63 countries has also been used (this list was featured in global TB reporting 2007−2009, but not other years), primarily to expand advocacy efforts related to implementation of collaborative TB/HIV activities. In addition to the 41 countries (shown in Table 1), this included any other countries classified by UNAIDS as having a generalised HIV epidemic in 2004: Bahamas,

Research paper thumbnail of In vivo proteomics identifies the competence regulon and AliB oligopeptide transporter as pathogenic factors in pneumococcal meningitis

PLOS Pathogens, 2019

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococci) is a leading cause of severe bacterial meningitis in many ... more Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococci) is a leading cause of severe bacterial meningitis in many countries worldwide. To characterize the repertoire of fitness and virulence factors predominantly expressed during meningitis we performed niche-specific analysis of the in vivo proteome in a mouse meningitis model, in which bacteria are directly inoculated into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cisterna magna. We generated a comprehensive mass spectrometry (MS) spectra library enabling bacterial proteome analysis even in the presence of eukaryotic proteins. We recovered 200,000 pneumococci from CSF obtained from meningitis mice and by MS we identified 685 pneumococci proteins in samples from in vitro filter controls and 249 in CSF isolates. Strikingly, the regulatory two-component system ComDE and substratebinding protein AliB of the oligopeptide transporter system were exclusively detected in pneumococci recovered from the CSF. In the mouse meningitis model, AliB-, ComDE-, or AliB-ComDE-deficiency resulted in attenuated meningeal inflammation and disease severity when compared to wild-type pneumococci indicating the crucial role of ComDE and AliB in pneumococcal meningitis. In conclusion, we show here mechanisms of pneumococcal adaptation to a defined host compartment by a proteome-based approach. Further, this study provides the basis of a promising strategy for the identification of protein antigens critical for invasive disease caused by pneumococci and other meningeal pathogens.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Newer Commercial Serological (ICT) Test For the Diagnosis of Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis in TB Endemic Areas

IOSR Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences, 2014

We assessed the efficacy of the diagnostic serological test (CTK Biotech Inc and ACON Laboratorie... more We assessed the efficacy of the diagnostic serological test (CTK Biotech Inc and ACON Laboratories, Inc, USA) for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in TB endemic area of Quetta Pakistan. Among 223 suspected PTB respondents, forty patients were declared as having tuberculosis on the basis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis positive culture being the Gold standard. IgG/IgA testing in a high prevalence area may not be entirely useful. We were more interested in the presence of IgM antibodies based on which patients were classified as positive. The sensitivity of the serological test was very poor than that of sputum culture (70% versus IgM 0%, IgG 55%, IgA 15%).

Research paper thumbnail of Zoonotic brucellosis: Seroprevalence and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan

World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Jun 30, 2020

The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and differen... more The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan. A total of 500 blood samples, comprising of 250 each from sheep and goat were randomly collected from out skirts of District Quetta, Balochistan. Out of the 250 blood samples 125 were collected from each males and females. The serum samples were tested for the presence of anti-Brucella antibodies by Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), Serum Plate Agglutination Test (SPAT) and Serum Tube Agglutination Test (STAT). The overall prevalence of brucellosis in sheep was recorded as 16.4%, 13.2% and 10.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively and in goat was found to be 11.6%, 8.8% and 6.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The sex-wise prevalence of brucellosis in Ram (male sheep) was recorded as 12.8%, 8.8% and 7.2% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively; while in Ewe (female sheep) it was 20.0%, 17.6% and 14.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT respectively. In Buck (male goat), the seroprevalence of brucellosis was recorded 8.0%, 5.6% and 3.2%, whereas in Dew (female goat) it was 15.2%, 12.0% and 10.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The prevalence of brucellosis was relatively higher in ovine (sheep) as compared to caprine (goat), irrespective of techniques used. It was also concluded that brucellosis was higher in females than in males in both sheep and goat. Among all the serological tests applied in the present study, RBPT was found to be more sensitive and showed higher prevalence of brucellosis in sheep as well as in goat population.

Research paper thumbnail of Pneumococcal metabolic adaptation and colonization is regulated by the two-component regulatory system 08

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory), Apr 12, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Mycotoxins in Dairy Feed and its Harmful Impact on Animal Health: Diagnostic Aids and Treatment: A Big Animal Health Challenge

Open access research journal of chemistry and pharmacy, Mar 30, 2022

Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most impor... more Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most important steps in getting the high productions from dairy cattle. Mycotoxins are chemicals produced by fungi (molds) under certain conditions, not essential for fungal itself growth or reproduction, having toxic affects to animals and humans. More than 250 mycotoxins have been detected. For many toxins, their toxicological characteristics have not been fully determined until now. There are many kinds of mycotoxins, causing different kinds of mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxins enter into the body, usually by consumption of contaminated feed, do acts on cells causing the mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxicoses are not contagious, nor is there significant stimulation of the immune system. Aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, commonly found in corn, milo, cottonseed and peanuts, while its concentrations in grains is very enough to cause acute aflatoxicosis. The five important aflatoxins are aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, and M1. Aflatoxin is a liver poison (hepatotoxin) in all species that consume it, however, ruminants tolerate it better than do monogastrics or poultry. It causes liver damage and liver cancer at high doses. Aflatoxin exposure leads to depress the immune system, causes liver damage, liver cancer and abortions. Depression, anorexia, reduced gain or milk production, subnormal body temperature and slow rumen motility are the clinical signs of aflatoxicosis. Ingestion of ergot alkaloids contain in the sclerotia of Claviceps spp, commonly found in cereal grains causing Ergot toxicosis, leads to cause agalactia in lactating females. Fumonisins are produced by Fusarium moniliforme and F. proliferatum, found primarily in white and yellow corn, having three kinds, fumonisins B1, B2, and B3. Equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELE) is a fatal disease of horses and Porcine pulmonary syndrome in swine are caused by fumonisins, through inhibition of enzymes involved in the production of sphingosine (important component of cell membranes for neurons) from sphinganine. Vomitoxin or Deoxynivalenol is produced by Fusarium roseum (F. graminearum) and F. moniliforme. It is commonly found in corn, wheat, barley, milo and rarely found in oats, hay or forages. Vomitoxin is not very toxic, associated with feed refusal and decreased feed consumption leads to affect the animal performance by inhibiting the protein and nucleic acid synthesis. Zearalenone is produced by Fusarium roseum (F. graminearum) and F. moniliforme, found in corn, wheat, barley, milo and occasionally in oats. Zearalenone is a chemical that can act similarly to the female sex hormone estrogen, leads to disrupt the estrus cycle in females, causes infertility and feminization in males, and precocious puberty in sexually immature females. Zearalenone content typically found in grains. Its production become increase due to unusual environmental conditions during the growing season and insufficiently stored dried grain usually having enough adversely effect on animals. Mycotoxins present in the feed/ration can be treated by adopting Modern agricultural practices, giving usually supportive therapy and Antidotes, giving activated charcoal to decrease the ingested mycotoxins absorption, using feed additives as mycotoxins binders, removing, stopping and preventing further exposure of contamination to animal feed.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of Growth Promoter in Feed: Tylosin Phosphate and Oxytetracycline Di-Hydrate Show Synergistic Effect on the Haematological Parameters and Biochemical Components of Broiler Chicken Blood

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 2022

Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the... more Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the experiment. NK and ISS analysed the data and wrote the paper. NK, ISS and MMT critically reviewed the paper and all authors collectively approved the final version.

Research paper thumbnail of Study on Accuracy and Efficiency of Molecular Diagnostic Techniques used for Tuberculosis and Analysis of Associated Risk Factors for Tuberculosis in Jail Inmates of Quetta, Pakistan

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, Jun 1, 2018

11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 ... more 11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 Besides the list of 41 priority countries, a list of 63 countries has also been used (this list was featured in global TB reporting 2007−2009, but not other years), primarily to expand advocacy efforts related to implementation of collaborative TB/HIV activities. In addition to the 41 countries (shown in Table 1), this included any other countries classified by UNAIDS as having a generalised HIV epidemic in 2004: Bahamas,

Research paper thumbnail of Clinical Manifestations and Distribution of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Pakistan

Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2011

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a rising epidemic in Pakistan. It is a major public health proble... more Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a rising epidemic in Pakistan. It is a major public health problem in the country especially alongside regions bordering the neighboring Afghanistan and cities that have had the maximum influx of refugees. The purpose of our paper is to highlight the diverse clinical manifestations of the disease seen along with the geographic areas affected, where the hosts are particularly susceptible. This would also be helpful in presenting the broad spectrum of the disease for training of health care workers and help in surveillance of CL in the region. The increased clinical diversity and the spectrum of phenotypic manifestations noted underscore the fact that the diagnosis of CL should be not only considered when dealing with common skin lesions, but also highly suspected by dermatologists and even primary care physicians even when encountering uncommon pathologies. Hence, we would strongly advocate that since most of these patients present to local health care centers and hospitals, primary care practitioners and even lady health workers (LHWs) should be trained in identification of at least the common presentations of CL.

Research paper thumbnail of Genome sequencing and analysis of genomic diversity in the locally transmitted SARS-CoV-2 in Pakistan

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, Sep 1, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Pneumococcal Metabolic Adaptation and Colonization Are Regulated by the Two-Component Regulatory System 08

mSphere, Jun 27, 2018

Streptococcus pneumoniae two-component regulatory systems (TCS) enable adaptation and ensure its ... more Streptococcus pneumoniae two-component regulatory systems (TCS) enable adaptation and ensure its maintenance in host environments. This study deciphers the impact of TCS08 on pneumococcal gene expression and its role in metabolic and pathophysiological processes. Transcriptome analysis and real-time PCR demonstrated a regulatory effect of TCS08 on genes involved mainly in environmental information processing, intermediary metabolism, and colonization by S. pneumoniae D39 and TIGR4. Striking examples are genes for fatty acid biosynthesis, genes of the arginine deiminase system, and the psa operon encoding the manganese ABC transport system. In silico analysis confirmed that TCS08 is homologous to Staphylococcus aureus SaeRS, and a SaeR-like binding motif is displayed in the promoter region of pavB, the upstream gene of the tcs08 operon encoding a surfaceexposed adhesin. Indeed, PavB is regulated by TCS08 as confirmed by immunoblotting and surface abundance assays. Similarly, pilus-1 of TIGR4 is regulated by TCS08. Finally, in vivo infections using the acute pneumonia and sepsis models showed a strain-dependent effect. Loss of function of HK08 or TCS08 attenuated D39 virulence in lung infections. The RR08 deficiency attenuated TIGR4 in pneumonia, while there was no effect on sepsis. In contrast, lack of HK08 procured a highly virulent TIGR4 phenotype in both pneumonia and sepsis infections. Taken together, these data indicate the importance of TCS08 in pneumococcal fitness to adapt to the milieu of the respiratory tract during colonization. IMPORTANCE Streptococcus pneumoniae interplays with its environment by using 13 two-component regulatory systems and one orphan response regulator. These systems are involved in the sensing of environmental signals, thereby modulating pneumococcal pathophysiology. This study aimed to understand the functional role of genes subject to control by the TCS08. The identified genes play a role in transport of compounds such as sugars or amino acids. In addition, the intermediary metabolism and colonization factors are modulated by TCS08. Thus, TCS08 regulates genes involved in maintaining pneumococcal physiology, transport capacity, and adhesive factors to enable optimal colonization, which represents a prerequisite for invasive pneumococcal disease.

Research paper thumbnail of Genome sequencing and analysis of genomic diversity in the locally transmitted SARS‐CoV‐2 in Pakistan

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases

Research paper thumbnail of Deciphering the influence of Streptococcus pneumoniae global regulators on fitness and virulence

zeigen auch die Veränderungen der Proteinsynthese während des logarithmischen Wachstums von S. pn... more zeigen auch die Veränderungen der Proteinsynthese während des logarithmischen Wachstums von S. pneumoniae. Mit diesen Studien konnte gezeigt werden, wie sich S. pneumonaie an verschiedene Wachstumsbedingungen durch Veränderung des Proteoms anpassen kann, und welchen Einfluß regulatorische Proteine auf die Verwertung verfügbarer Kohlenstoff-und Stickstoffquellen haben.

Research paper thumbnail of Mycotoxins in Dairy Feed and its Harmful Impact on Animal Health: Diagnostic Aids and Treatment: A Big Animal Health Challenge

Open Access Research Journal of Chemistry and Pharmacy, 2022

Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most impor... more Monitoring the certain health conditions and properly identifying the diseases are the most important steps in getting the high productions from dairy cattle. Mycotoxins are chemicals produced by fungi (molds) under certain conditions, not essential for fungal itself growth or reproduction, having toxic affects to animals and humans. More than 250 mycotoxins have been detected. For many toxins, their toxicological characteristics have not been fully determined until now. There are many kinds of mycotoxins, causing different kinds of mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxins enter into the body, usually by consumption of contaminated feed, do acts on cells causing the mycotoxicoses. Mycotoxicoses are not contagious, nor is there significant stimulation of the immune system. Aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, commonly found in corn, milo, cottonseed and peanuts, while its concentrations in grains is very enough to cause acute aflatoxicosis. The five important aflato...

Research paper thumbnail of Use of Growth Promoter in Feed: Tylosin Phosphate and Oxytetracycline Di-Hydrate Show Synergistic Effect on the Haematological Parameters and Biochemical Components of Broiler Chicken Blood

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 2022

Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the... more Authors' Contribution ISS and SHS conceived and designed the study. SHS, MEK and MZM executed the experiment. NK and ISS analysed the data and wrote the paper. NK, ISS and MMT critically reviewed the paper and all authors collectively approved the final version.

Research paper thumbnail of Nutraceutical Applications Of Copper, Manganese And Zinc In Rumen Metabolism And Body Immune Processes

The key component in striving towards optimum animal production are possible by the provision of ... more The key component in striving towards optimum animal production are possible by the provision of essential nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins to livestock in a balance pattern. The important role of trace minerals in term of animal production is far away very much highlighted broadly, as the trace elements are recognized with the most significant functional components of numerous metabolic processes. The body has the basic needs of trace minerals in trace amounts, ranging from 0.10 to 50.0 mg/kg of dry matter in the feed of dairy animals. These trace elements are essential for all biochemical processes of the body that supports the growth and the appropriate maintenance. Such as, copper (Cu) is necessary for the function of the superoxide dismutase and in the removal of toxic by-products of metabolic pathways. The exclusion of these toxic by-products permits metabolism to perform efficiently, uninhibited by damaging oxygen free radicals. Manganese(...

Research paper thumbnail of In vivo proteome analysis of Streptococcus pneumoniae during CSF infections deciphers mechanisms of adaptation

Research paper thumbnail of Global Impact of Obesity and Diabetes on the Increase Incidence and Prevalence of Chronic Kidney disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): A Systematic Review

Background: Obesity and diabetes are the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stag... more Background: Obesity and diabetes are the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stage renal disease (ESRD). The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of obesity and diabetes on CKD and ESRD incidence and prevalence. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted from 2001 to 2018. 494 articles were retrieved via PubMed and 125 articles through Google scholar and reference list of the selected articles. Among which thirty (30) studies met our inclusion criteria consisting of 17 cohorts, 11 cross-sectional, and 2 case-control studies.Results: Majority of the studies indicated direct relationship between body mass index (BMI) and ESRD risk. Notably, the association of obesity and diabetes potentially increases the incidence and prevalence of CKD and ESRD. Results from the cohort, case-control and cross-sectional studies pointed out a positive association between obesity, diabetes and risks for renal disease outcomes. Even though many complications may...

Research paper thumbnail of Classification, Etiology, Similarities and Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Canine and Feline with Respect to Humans

Diabetes mellitus relates a metabolic disorder of collective etiology which is characterized by c... more Diabetes mellitus relates a metabolic disorder of collective etiology which is characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia caused due to disturbances of carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism due to impaired β-cell function of pancreas or insulin resistance or both. Diabetes mellitus is a common disease in canine and feline. The most common form of diabetes in canine resembles type 1 diabetes in humans. Studies suggest that genetics, an immunemediated component, and environmental factors are involved in the development of diabetes in dogs. A variant of gestational diabetes also occurs in canine. The most common form of diabetes in feline resembles type 2 diabetes in humans. A major risk factor in feline is obesity. Obese cats have altered expression of several insulin signaling genes and glucose transporters and are leptin resistant. Feline also form amyloid deposits within the islets of the pancreas and develop glucotoxicity when exposed to prolonged hyperglycemia. An essential asp...

Research paper thumbnail of Zoonotic brucellosis: Seroprevalence and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan

World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2020

The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and differen... more The present study was design to determine the seroprevalence of zoonotic brucellosis and different serological tests comparison in ovine and caprine population in district Quetta, Balochistan. A total of 500 blood samples, comprising of 250 each from sheep and goat were randomly collected from out skirts of District Quetta, Balochistan. Out of the 250 blood samples 125 were collected from each males and females. The serum samples were tested for the presence of anti-Brucella antibodies by Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), Serum Plate Agglutination Test (SPAT) and Serum Tube Agglutination Test (STAT). The overall prevalence of brucellosis in sheep was recorded as 16.4%, 13.2% and 10.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively and in goat was found to be 11.6%, 8.8% and 6.8% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The sex-wise prevalence of brucellosis in Ram (male sheep) was recorded as 12.8%, 8.8% and 7.2% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively; while in Ewe (female sheep) it was 20.0%, 17.6% and 14.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT respectively. In Buck (male goat), the seroprevalence of brucellosis was recorded 8.0%, 5.6% and 3.2%, whereas in Dew (female goat) it was 15.2%, 12.0% and 10.4% by RBPT, SPAT and STAT, respectively. The prevalence of brucellosis was relatively higher in ovine (sheep) as compared to caprine (goat), irrespective of techniques used. It was also concluded that brucellosis was higher in females than in males in both sheep and goat. Among all the serological tests applied in the present study, RBPT was found to be more sensitive and showed higher prevalence of brucellosis in sheep as well as in goat population.

Research paper thumbnail of Study on Accuracy and Efficiency of Molecular Diagnostic Techniques used for Tuberculosis and Analysis of Associated Risk Factors for Tuberculosis in Jail Inmates of Quetta, Pakistan

Pakistan Journal of Zoology, 2018

11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 ... more 11.pdf. Out of the 22 countries invited, only 2 were not represented: Afghanistan and Myanmar. 3 Besides the list of 41 priority countries, a list of 63 countries has also been used (this list was featured in global TB reporting 2007−2009, but not other years), primarily to expand advocacy efforts related to implementation of collaborative TB/HIV activities. In addition to the 41 countries (shown in Table 1), this included any other countries classified by UNAIDS as having a generalised HIV epidemic in 2004: Bahamas,

Research paper thumbnail of In vivo proteomics identifies the competence regulon and AliB oligopeptide transporter as pathogenic factors in pneumococcal meningitis

PLOS Pathogens, 2019

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococci) is a leading cause of severe bacterial meningitis in many ... more Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococci) is a leading cause of severe bacterial meningitis in many countries worldwide. To characterize the repertoire of fitness and virulence factors predominantly expressed during meningitis we performed niche-specific analysis of the in vivo proteome in a mouse meningitis model, in which bacteria are directly inoculated into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cisterna magna. We generated a comprehensive mass spectrometry (MS) spectra library enabling bacterial proteome analysis even in the presence of eukaryotic proteins. We recovered 200,000 pneumococci from CSF obtained from meningitis mice and by MS we identified 685 pneumococci proteins in samples from in vitro filter controls and 249 in CSF isolates. Strikingly, the regulatory two-component system ComDE and substratebinding protein AliB of the oligopeptide transporter system were exclusively detected in pneumococci recovered from the CSF. In the mouse meningitis model, AliB-, ComDE-, or AliB-ComDE-deficiency resulted in attenuated meningeal inflammation and disease severity when compared to wild-type pneumococci indicating the crucial role of ComDE and AliB in pneumococcal meningitis. In conclusion, we show here mechanisms of pneumococcal adaptation to a defined host compartment by a proteome-based approach. Further, this study provides the basis of a promising strategy for the identification of protein antigens critical for invasive disease caused by pneumococci and other meningeal pathogens.