Microbe Mail podcast

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Episode web page: https://tinyurl.com/2b3dz2z8 ----------------------- Rate Insights Unlocked and write a review If you appreciate Insights Unlocked , please give it a rating and a review. Visit Apple Podcasts, pull up the Insights Unlocked show page and scroll to the bottom of the screen. Below the trailers, you'll find Ratings and Reviews. Click on a star rating. Scroll down past the highlighted review and click on "Write a Review." You'll make my day. ----------------------- In this episode of Insights Unlocked , we explore the evolving landscape of omnichannel strategies with Kate MacCabe, founder of Flywheel Strategy. With nearly two decades of experience in digital strategy and product management, Kate shares her insights on bridging internal silos, leveraging customer insights, and designing omnichannel experiences that truly resonate. From the early days of DTC growth to today’s complex, multi-touchpoint customer journeys, Kate explains why omnichannel is no longer optional—it’s essential. She highlights a standout example from Anthropologie, demonstrating how brands can create a unified customer experience across digital and physical spaces. Whether you’re a marketing leader, UX strategist, or product manager, this episode is packed with actionable advice on aligning teams, integrating user feedback, and building a future-proof omnichannel strategy. Key Takeaways: ✅ Omnichannel vs. Multichannel: Many brands think they’re omnichannel, but they’re really just multichannel. Kate breaks down the difference and how to shift toward true integration. ✅ Anthropologie’s Success Story: Learn how this brand seamlessly blended physical and digital experiences to create a memorable, data-driven customer journey. ✅ User Feedback is the Secret Weapon: Discover how continuous user testing—before, during, and after a launch—helps brands fine-tune their strategies and avoid costly mistakes. ✅ Aligning Teams for Success: Cross-functional collaboration is critical. Kate shares tips on breaking down silos between marketing, product, and development teams. ✅ Emerging Tech & Omnichannel: Instead of chasing the latest tech trends, Kate advises businesses to define their strategic goals first—then leverage AI, AR, and other innovations to enhance the customer experience. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Omnichannel isn’t just about being everywhere; it’s about creating seamless bridges between every touchpoint a customer interacts with." – Kate MacCabe 💬 "Companies that truly listen to their users—through qualitative and quantitative insights—are the ones that thrive in today’s competitive landscape." – Kate MacCabe Resources & Links: 🔗 Learn more about Flywheel Strategy 🔗 Connect with Kate MacCabe on LinkedIn 🔗 Explore UserTesting for customer insights for marketers…

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Are you looking for a medical podcast covering every day issues in diagnostic tests, antimicrobial therapy and management of infections that is relevant to a low or middle income setting? A show that simplifies complex concepts in an easy to follow conversational format? You've come to the right place. This is Microbe Mail - a medical podcast for the busy practitioner or student covering topics in microbiology, infectious diseases and infection control. Sign up to our newsletter to receive updates on new episode releases at: https://microbemail.captivate.fm/ Contact us at mail.microbe@gmail.com

70 episoade

Microbe Mail

updated acum 15 ore

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70 episoade

#Fitness #Podcasting Education #Medicine #Vindana Chibabhai

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Microbe Mail

1
Empowering AMS: The essential role of Clinical Pharmacists 48:21

acum 15 hours48:21

48:21

Antimicrobial resistance has become one of healthcare's biggest challenges, and in the fight against AMR getting the right drug, the right dose, right indication and the right route is everything. In this episode, we’re exploring the critical role clinical pharmacists play in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). Join Nonks, the latest microbe messenger to take the mic, as she talks to seasoned clinical pharmacist Ama Annor . About our Guest: Ama Sakoa Annor , is a committed and proactive pharmacist who is trained in comprehensive pharmaceutical care for paediatric patients. She holds an MSc (Med) in Clinical Pharmacy and a DPharm Candidate with six publications. She is currently working at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital as a ward pharmacist, stationed in the paediatric medical and surgical departments. She is a member of the hospital’s Pharmacy and Therapeutics, AMS, ADR Committee and other sub-committees. She is also affiliated as a mentor with the Clinical Pharmacy Division of the School of Pharmacy of the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University. She has a passion for rational antimicrobial use and is privileged to be one of the mentees in the Ohio State University/Nationwide Children's Hospital - South Africa Train-the-Trainer program in the Neonatal Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in 2019. Two of the end products are the recent publications: “Prospective antimicrobial stewardship interventions by multidisciplinary teams to reduce neonatal antibiotic use in South Africa: the Neonatal Antimicrobial Stewardship (NeoAMS) study”. International Journal of Infectious Diseases 2024-06 | Journal article. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107158 “Defining and responding to the contextual drivers for implementation of antimicrobial stewardship in 14 neonatal units in South Africa”; JAC-Antimicrobial Resistance 2025 Vol. 7 Issue 1 https://doi.org/10.1093/jacamr/dlae222 Facebook: Ama Sakoa Annor Linkedin_ama_sakoa-annor X: @ama_sakoa_annor Instagram: amasakoa Also listen to this: Episode 6: A is for antimicrobial stewardship WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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Don't hesitate, VACCINATE! 41:13

acum 29 zile41:13

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Vaccinations play an important role in both our individual and community health. They help to prevent serious and sometimes deadly diseases by strengthening our immune system. But in recent years this cost effective method of disease prevention has come under the spot light, drawing attention to some myths and misconceptions. In this episode, Dr Anne von Gottberg dives into the importance of vaccinations, how to handle missed vaccines, vaccine dos and don'ts and recent changes in the Extended Programme onIimmunzation(EPI) in South Africa. About our Guest: Dr Anne von Gottberg is currently the laboratory lead at the Centre for Respiratory Diseases and Meningitis at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa; and Associate Professor within the School of Pathology, Faculty of the Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg; and Honorary Professor, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town. She leads a laboratory team responsible for reference diagnostics for respiratory and meningitis pathogens nationally and regionally. The laboratory is the regional reference laboratory for the World Health Organization (WHO) Vaccine-preventable Invasive Bacterial Diseases (VP-IBD) Coordinated Global Surveillance Network for the southern African region; a National Influenza Centre (NIC); and a global WHO RSV and regional SARS-CoV-2 reference laboratory. She is currently a member of several committees and technical advisory groups for AFRO, Africa CDC and WHO. Her main interests include surveillance for meningitis and respiratory pathogens, assessing vaccine effectiveness where relevant. She has authored or co-authored more than 200 articles in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, she supervises a number of Masters and PhD students. Dr von Gottberg obtained her MBBCh and PhD at the University of the Witwatersrand, and trained for her specialisation in clinical microbiology (FC Path[SA] MICRO) at the National Health Laboratory Service (former South African Institute for Medical Research) and at the University of the Witwatersrand. WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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Recapping Memorable Microbe Moments 27:58

acum 7 weeks27:58

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This episode gives a nod to the show's history while also hinting at the variety of topics discussed. A Journey Through the Microscopic World – Highlights from some memorable episodes Episodes featured in this recap: EP 49: No spleen, how mean! - Asplenia_ Antibiotic prophylaxis EP 59: What's all the buzz about_ Malaria diagnostics EP 33: Would you rather, the antibiotics version_ Empiric therapy for community acquired meningitis EP 50: HIV in the USA _ Diagnosing HIV in the USA EP 58: Findings from FIDSSA part 2_ Rabies update and outbreak response EP 44 : Highlights from the PathRed Congress 2023 - Part 1_ Emerging viral infections EP 62: Myco-moments: Interviews from the 4th AIDS-related Mycoses Workshop: The immunology of Oral candidiasis EP 61: "Prescription Ice cream" Book review and interview: Advice to young medical doctors and students EP 53 : Appropriate use of β-lactam - β-lactamase inhibitor combinations _ Rapid genetic testing, know your syndromic antibiograms, and diagnostic stewardship WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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New kids on the block: A look at the novel agents to treat MDROs 43:14

acum 10 weeks43:14

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In this episode Vin talks to experienced microbiologist Dr Jennifer Coetzee about an increasingly urgent issue: multidrug-resistant infections. With resistance to common antibiotics on the rise, the need for novel treatment agents has never been more pressing. Dr. Coetzee shares her insights on the latest treatments making headway in the fight against multidrug-resistant infections. About our Guest: Jennifer Coetzee is a qualified as a Clinical Microbiologist from University of Witwatersrand and spent time working as a Consultant at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. Currently working as a Consultant Microbiologist in the Clinical Microbiology and Molecular biology departments of Ampath’s National Reference Laboratory in Centurion, Gauteng. A member of South African Society of Clinical Microbiology (SASCM) as well as European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID).Research interests include documenting the emergence of carbapenemases in South Africa, and the epidemiology of invasive fungal infections. WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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Probing Infective endocarditis: Part 2 21:19

acum 16 weeks21:19

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Who knew that the Duke's criteria could be further modified? In Part 2, Vin and Ruan continue discussing infective endocarditis with the help of skilled cardiologist, Dr Raaesah Bhorat, this time discussing treatment: empiric, targeted and surgical therapy. About our Guest: Dr Raeesa Bhorat is a cardiologist at Sunninghill hospital, working as an interventional fellow under Professor Hellig. She completed her cardiology training at Groote Schuur hospital in 2024; and her interests include structural intervention and research in the application of artificial intelligence to cardiology, particularly the electrocardiogram. She completed her fellowship in internal medicine in 2019 and received her MBChB degree in 2013, cum laude. WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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Probing Infective endocarditis: Part 1 31:16

acum 17 weeks31:16

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Who knew that the Duke's criteria could be further modified? In this episode, Vin and Ruan explore this update to the criterion and other critical aspects of diagnosing and managing infective endocarditis with the help of skilled cardiologist, Dr Raeesa Bhorat. About our Guest: Dr Raaesah Bhorat is a cardiologist at Sunninghill hospital, working as an interventional fellow under Professor Hellig. She completed her cardiology training at Groote Schuur hospital in 2024; and her interests include structural intervention and research in the application of artificial intelligence to cardiology, particularly the electrocardiogram. She completed her fellowship in internal medicine in 2019 and received her MBChB degree in 2013, cum laude WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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Myco-moments: Interviews from the 4th AIDS-related Mycoses workshop 35:56

acum 23 weeks35:56

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In July, Ruan braved the AIDS-related Mycoses workshop held in Cape Town as the lone Microbe messenger. He attended sessions where speakers discussed novel findings in the epidemiology, prevention, diagnosis and therapy for some of the deadliest fungal infections globally. In this episode he and Vin take through some of the brief discussions he had with some of the enlightening researchers. Meet our Guests: Dr Juan Louis Rodriguez Tudela MD, PhD Dr Michail Lionakis, M.D., Sc.D. Dr Felix Bongomin, M.D., MSc Prof Alessandro Pasqualotto, Professor of Infectious Diseases, with special interest in medical mycology and Fellow of the European Confederation of Medical Mycology. Dr Trevor Mnguni, MBChB, FCP(SA), Cert Pulm(SA) Prof Joseph Jarvis, Consultant Physician and Epidemiologist at Botswana-UPenn Partnership and Honorary Senior Lecturer, LSHTM WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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"Prescription Ice cream" Book review and interview 52:20

acum 26 weeks52:20

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This week, we sit down with author, Dr Alastair McAlpine, to discuss his compelling book. In this thought provoking reflection, he shares insights into the unique challenges faced by doctors working in the public sector in South Africa. From systematic shortcomings to personal struggles, he takes us back to what inspired it all. About our Guest: Dr Alastair McAlpine is a paediatric infectious diseases physician who was born and raised in Johannesburg. His passions include preventing infections in kids, listening to noisy bands and encouraging his colleagues to prescribe ice cream more frequently. His new book Prescription: Ice Cream – A Doctor’s Journey to Discover What Matters is his engaging memoir about the highs and lows of working as a medical doctor in South Africa and how, with a little help from metal music and ice cream, he was able to struggle on, find meaning in the chaos and inspire others. WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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3rd anniversary special episode- Meet the messengers 42:03

acum 29 weeks42:03

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Microbe mail turns 3 on the 14th of September, and we wanted to keep things light for this time of the year. In this special episode we flip the script, literally, and swop our usual expert interviews for some team banter as Esther grills the team over a bunsen burner. We promise it’s more fun than a Petri dish! WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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What's all the buzz about? 32:18

acum 32 weeks32:18

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In a world of emerging and eradicated pathogens, how has Malaria remained such a successful infection? Since its earliest description as "bad air", this mosquito-driven hazard has remained lethal in some populations and regions. This episode addresses significant updates in its epidemiology, tips on diagnostics, some commentary on the vaccine and a lot more. About our Guest: Dr. Jaishree Raman is a molecular biologist by training with a strong interest in malaria and public health. Jaishree currently heads the Laboratory for Antimalarial Resistance Monitoring and Malaria Operational Research (ARMMOR) at the NICD. The core focus of ARMMOR is to improve malaria diagnostic and treatment options and to assist South Africa and Africa eliminate malaria. To this end, ARMMOR hosts the South African National Surveillance Programme for Antimalarial Drug and Diagnostic Resistance Monitoring. As the chair of the case management sub-committee of the South African Malaria Elimination Committee, Jaishree has developed and delivered training courses aimed at capacitating the malaria programme staff on case management protocols and practices. She is a member of several regional networks, such as the Elimination 8 and Pathogen Diversity Network Africa, that are aiming to strengthen malaria genomic and bioinformatics capacity across Africa. She co-developed a leadership and management course for malaria elimination targeting malaria programme staff currently being delivered by GIBBS and the University of Pretoria and is also a mentor on the recently launched Pan-African Malaria Control Association (PAMCA) LiftHerUp initiative, which is focussing on increasing African women leaders in science, with a major focus on vector-borne diseases. Some resources from this episode: R21/Matrix-M vaccine: Phase 3 trial https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38310910/ RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine : first results https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22007715/ RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine: final results https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(15)60721-8 WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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Findings from FIDSSA 2024: Part 2 1:12:37

acum 35 weeks1:12:37

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Earlier this year, some of the Microbe messengers attended the 10th FIDSSA Congress held in Johannesburg, South Africa. Besides being presenters themselves, they met and interviewed medical researchers in various infectious disease related fields. This joint biennial congress hosted by the Federation of Infectious Diseases Societies of Southern Africa (FIDSSA) brings together healthcare professionals from its various societies, where members share research experiences and outcomes. Let's hope this acts as a catalyst for collaborative work, culminating in comprehensive guidance in the management of infectious diseases. To learn more about FIDSSA and its member societies visit: https://www.fidssa.co.za/ This episode includes discussions with: Professor David Lewis Professor Robin Patel Professor Lucille Blumberg Professor Angela Dramowski Dr Tholang Khumalo Professor Eric Decloedt Some resources from this episode: Southern African HIV Clinicians Society 2022 guideline for the management of sexually transmitted infections: Moving towards best practice: http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajhivmed.v23i1.1450 Tanapox, South Africa: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37022936/ NEISSERIA GONORRHOEAE ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE SURVEILLANCE IN GAUTENG PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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Highlights from FIDSSA 2024: Part 1 42:41

acum 36 weeks42:41

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Earlier this year, some of the Microbe messengers attended the 10th FIDSSA Congress held in Johannesburg, South Africa. Besides being presenters themselves, they met and interviewed medical researchers in various infectious disease related fields. This joint biennial congress hosted by the Federation of Infectious Diseases Societies of Southern Africa (FIDSSA) brings together healthcare professionals from its various societies, where members share research experiences and outcomes. Let's hope this acts as a catalyst for collaborative work, culminating in all-encompassing guidance in the management of infectious diseases. To learn more about FIDSSA and its member societies visit: https://www.fidssa.co.za/ This episode includes discussions with: Dr Nicollete du Plessis Dr Jeremy Nel Professor James Seddon (@Jamesseddon10 on X) Dr Lyle Murray Professor Akebe Luther King Abia Dr Ribkha Berhanu WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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Viral Respiratory Infections 49:51

acum 38 weeks49:51

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It's that time of the year again, and most of us have already experience our fair share of the snuffles, so why not discuss it? In this episode Vin and Ruan speak to Associate Professor Diana Hardie about when respiratory infections go viral.... and not in a good way. About our Guest: Diana Hardie is a clinical virologist and head of the diagnostic virology laboratory at Groote Schuur Hospital. Her research interests center around viral infections in immuno-compromised patients and the immuno-pathogenesis of viral infections. She has also contributed to the development of various diagnostic assays for viral infections. She has had many years of experience teaching medical virology and immunology to medical students, honours and post graduate students. WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

Microbe Mail

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Careers in Microbiology 53:15

acum 40 weeks53:15

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Ever wondered what Microbiologists get up to in the laboratory? Is it all about waiting for organisms to grow, "doomsday prophecies" regarding antimicrobial resistance, and asking for a clinical correlation? The feild of Microbiology is vast, and Vin speaks to some well seasoned experts to get their take on a career in Microbiology. About our Guests: Crystal Viljoen, B.Tech Biomedical Technology: Crystal has more than 20 years of laboratory experience, and is currently working as the laboratory manager at the Infection Control Laboratory Services in Johannesburg. She is also an executive member of Legionella Action Group (LAG); and has a wealth of experience with quality management systems, including proficiency testing schemes, laboratory safety procedures and the process of laboratory accreditation, gained at the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) Andrea Prinzi, Ph.D., MPH, SM(ASCP): Dr Andrea Prinzi is currently a field medical director of US medical affairs at BioMérieux (pronounced bee oh merry you). Prior to her work in industry, Andrea was a clinical microbiologist with over 12 years of hands-on bench experience in a pediatric hospital laboratory. In 2014, she obtained her master’s in public health from the Colorado School of public health with a focus in epidemiology. In 2021, she completed a PhD in clinical and translational science from the University of Colorado. As a PhD in Clinical and Translational science, her interests include antimicrobial and diagnostic stewardship (with an emphasis on pneumonia diagnostics and management), development of effective teaching methods for clinicians and the fusion of public health, clinical science and medicine to improve patient outcomes, quality improvement, infectious disease epidemiology, science communication, and implementation science. Dr. Prinzi’s PhD work was clinical and translational, and focused on bridging the gap between the clinical microbiology laboratory and clinical practice. She combined clinical diagnostics, public health, clinical research and science communication to improve the way we think about and use diagnostic tests and antimicrobials. Dr. Prinzi is the clinical and public health community leader for the American Society for Microbiology’s Council on Microbial sciences, as well as a regular blog writer for ASM. She is a reviewing editor for the ASM journal Spectrum, as well as an editorial advisory board member for Open Forum Infectious Diseases. She also enjoys volunteering time to help co-host the Let’s Talk Micro antimicrobial resistance sub-series with her friend, Luis Plaza. Dr Keeren Lutchminarain: Dr Keeren Lutchminarain is a clinical microbiologist based at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Her primary role in the NHLS is to oversee the KZN reference Tb laboratory where she is involved in interpreting routine diagnostic tests; verification of new instruments; teaching and training within the province and TB related research. YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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"Would you rather?" The Antibiotics version 46:13

acum 44 weeks46:13

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We're back with another game of 'Would you rather?' Where we pose a scenario, and our guests give us their views. This episode really challenges the basis of some of the beliefs and practices regarding antimicrobials. Some of the questions are so tricky, who knows if there even is a correct answer. What we do know is... it depends. About our Guest: Prof. Andrew Whitelaw worked as a consultant pathologist in clinical microbiology at Groote Schuur Hospital from 2003 – 2012. In December 2012 took up the post of Head of Department of Medical Microbiology at the University of Stellenbosch / Tygerberg Hospital. His early research revolved around molecular characterization of ESBLs in members of the Enterobacteriaceae, and he has been involved in a number of studies and activities related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and infection control over the last decade, both for community as well as hospital acquired pathogens. Most relevant among these would be his involvement in the South African Antibiotic Stewardship Programme (SAASP), The Infection Control Society of Southern Africa, and the SA Ministerial Advisory Committee on AMR. Ongoing research interests focus on antimicrobial resistance in Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus aureus, including molecular epidemiology and mechanisms of resistance as well as clinical impact and control of AMR. He is also involved in studies describing the human microbiota and in particular the effect of antimicrobials on the microbiota. Resources from this episode: SASCM C. difficile infection guidelines WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE – Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com Don't forget to also have a listen to these featured episodes: Episode 43: Communicating antimicrobial therapy to patients Episode 38 : Would you rather?: The mycology version Episode 35 : Would you rather?: The virology version Episode 33 : Would you rather?:The Bacterial version…

Microbe Mail

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Appropriate use of β-lactam - β-lactamase inhibitor combination antibiotics 53:41

acum 47 weeks53:41

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The rampant emergence of antimicrobial resistance, particularly amongst Gram negative organisms, has called for both the discovery of novel agents but also for a review of therapeutics thought to have been long lost in this battle. Enter, the "BLBLIs or BLICs'. In this episode Vin and Ruan speak with the 1st author of the publication " Appropriate use of the new β-lactam - β-lactamase inhibitor combination agents: Ceftazidime-avibactam and Ceftolozane-tazobactam in South Africa ", Professor Adrian Brink, and receive a welcomed masterclass on this interesting group of antimicrobials. About our Guest: Professor Adrian Brink is Head of the Division: Medical Microbiology, and member of the Institute of Infectious Disease & Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town and the National Health Laboratory Services, Groote Schuur hospital, Cape Town, South Africa. Prof Brink was founding President of the Federation of Infectious Diseases Societies of Southern Africa and is the founder and currently co-chairs the South African Antibiotic Stewardship Program (SAASP). Prof Brink currently serves on the South African Minister of Health’s Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) on Antimicrobial Resistance and representing Africa, is a member of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases International Affairs Subcommittee. His is main research interests are the clinical and molecular epidemiology of antibiotic-resistant infections, the mechanisms of resistance as a confounder in antibiotic stewardship, the design and implementation of large-scale antibiotic stewardship, diagnostic stewardship and infection prevention and control interventions in low- and middle-income countries. His interests also include the protective, metabolic and immune functions of the gastrointestinal and vaginal biome including the resistome and metabolome. Resources from this episode Best practices: Appropriate use of Beta-lactam/Beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations Ceftazidime-Avibactam and Ceftolozane-Tazobactam) WHO Priority Pathogens List Table 1: Data on inhibitor classes, inhibitory mechanisms, and current clinical trial status, Kar D et al., 2023. Table 6: β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BLI) combinations in clinical trials or submitted for regulatory approval, Butler et al., 2023 Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on our new YouTube channel : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com -WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE –…

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HIV in South Africa: Part 2 29:28

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Professor Francois Venter is back in Part 3 of our HIV series in which he continues to address South Africa's battles against HIV. Here he discusses his experience on how and when to initiate antiretroviral therapy, prophylaxis against opportunistic infection, routine monitoring and what the future of HIV management looks like in South Africa. About our Guest: Professor WD Francois Venter, MD, FCP, PhD is Executive Director of Wits Ezintsha at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, where he received most of his training. His work involves health systems research and clinical trials, most recently involving the antiretrovirals dolutegravir, tenofovir alafenamide, cabotegravir, and doravirine. He leads multiple antiretroviral treatment optimisation studies and is currently working on new access programmes through private pharmacies within South Africa, patient linkage-to-care interventions, self-testing projects, as well as most recently on new large-scale primary care delivery platforms addressing hypertension, diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidaemia and HIV. He has led large PEPFAR-funded HIV programmes in South Africa, focusing on men, women, children, young people, truckers, sex workers, and LGBTI communities. For over 20 years he has been an advisor to bodies such as the South African government, UNAIDS, and WHO, contributing to international, regional, and national HIV guidelines, and recently served as a member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee for COVID-19. He has an active interest in medical ethics and has been involved in several HIV-related human rights cases within the southern African region. He supervises Masters and PhD students and has over 200 publications, including first-author articles in major journals. Resources: SA HIV Clinicians society ADVANCE STUDY Southern African HIV Clinicians Society guidelines for antiretroviral therapy in adults:2023 update Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions Checker Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on YouTube : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE!…

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HIV in South Africa: Part 1 45:28

acum 51 weeks45:28

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Part 2 of our HIV series addresses South Africa's battles against HIV as we get an account of the complexities of diagnosis, prophylaxis, and managing opportunistic infections from a celebrated HIV clinician, Professor Francois Venter. About our Guest: Professor WD Francois Venter , MD, FCP, PhD is Executive Director of Wits Ezintsha at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, where he received most of his training. His work involves health systems research and clinical trials, most recently involving the antiretrovirals dolutegravir, tenofovir alafenamide, cabotegravir, and doravirine. He leads multiple antiretroviral treatment optimisation studies and is currently working on new access programmes through private pharmacies within South Africa, patient linkage-to-care interventions, self-testing projects, as well as most recently on new large-scale primary care delivery platforms addressing hypertension, diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidaemia and HIV. He has led large PEPFAR-funded HIV programmes in South Africa, focusing on men, women, children, young people, truckers, sex workers, and LGBTI communities. For over 20 years he has been an advisor to bodies such as the South African government, UNAIDS, and WHO, contributing to international, regional, and national HIV guidelines, and recently served as a member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee for COVID-19. He has an active interest in medical ethics and has been involved in several HIV-related human rights cases within the southern African region. He supervises Masters and PhD students and has over 200 publications, including first-author articles in major journals. Resources: SA HIV Clinicians society website PrEP guidelines PEP guidelines Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on YouTube : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS EPISODE!…

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HIV in the USA 35:39

acum 1 year35:39

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Here we discuss how HIV is diagnosed and managed in the USA. About our Guest: Dr Ankita Kadakia, M.D. serves as the Deputy Public Health Officer for the County of San Diego. Prior to her current role she served as the Chief and Medical Director for the County’s Tuberculosis Control and Refugee Health Branch and is the President of the California Tuberculosis Controller’s Association. Dr. Kadakia is a board-certified Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease specialist. She has served in leading, coordinating, supervising, and managing operations for Covid-19 as well as coordinating the County Public Health Service’s Tuberculosis Elimination Initiative. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she has played a critical role as a medical subject matter expert and Tri-Chair of the County COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Advisory Group. Prior to joining the County, Dr. Kadakia worked at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) as an Assistant Professor of Medicine with a focus on HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ healthcare while practicing HIV medicine at UCSD Owen Clinic. While at UCSD, Dr. Kadakia created the first Transgender HealthCare Symposium and became a co- principal investigator for the San Diego Pacific AIDS Education and Training Center. Dr. Kadakia’s passion, for serving underserved patients and preventing and treating Tuberculosis, STDs and HIV/AIDS, transcends borders. She has spent time in Uganda serving rural areas, partnering with Ugandans, to build and support schools for AIDS orphans and impoverished children. When she is not working, she immensely enjoys spending time with her two young children and practicing and teaching Kelee meditation. Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @ microbe.mail Watch this episode on YouTube : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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No spleen, how mean! - Asplenia 28:21

acum 1 year28:21

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The spleen is a poorly understood organ that when functioning well, operates efficiently in the background, but what can happen when medical conditions or trauma result in an impairment in that function? In today's episode Vin talks to Professor Veronica Ueckermann about the spleen. They discuss its various functions including mopping up old or damaged red blood cells and its pivotal role in the immune system. About our Guest: Prof Veronica Ueckermann is the head of Infectious diseases at the University of Pretoria/Steve Biko Academic Hospital. She holds a PhD in Infectious diseases, a Fellowship in Critical care, and a Masters in Internal Medicine. Her research focus is HIV, Tuberculosis, aerobiology, and antimicrobial resistance. She is actively involved in medical education at the University of Pretoria and other platforms. Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates Follow on: Instagram : Microbe_Mail X/Twitter : @microbemail Facebook : MicrobeMail Tiktok: @microbe.mail Watch this episode on YouTube : Microbe Mail E-mail us: mail.microbe@gmail.com…

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Infections in people who inject drugs 43:44

acum 1 year43:44

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Injection drug use is becoming increasingly common in Sub-Saharan Africa...and with it, the myriad of infectious complications. On this episode, Vin chats to Dr Evan Shoul about infections and some important considerations for managing patients who inject drugs. About our Guest: Dr Evan Shoul specialised as a consultant physician in Johannesburg and then completed his infectious diseases fellowship on the Wits circuit. He now works at the Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg and has a special interest in HIV and travel medicine. Social media: Twitter/X: @EvanShoul Southern African HIV Clinicians Society guidelines for harm reduction: From Southern African Journal of HIV Medicine https://doi.org/10.4102/sajhivmed.v21i1.1161 https://sahivsoc.org/Files/Southern%20African%20HIV%20Clinicians%20Society%20guidelines%20for%20harm%20reduction.pdf Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates E-mail: mail.microbe@gmail.com YouTube: Microbe Mail Instagram: Microbe_Mail…

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Invasive Candidiasis 49:27

acum 1 year49:27

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Invasive candidiasis (IC)...or evasive candidiasis? This famous fungus somehow managed to cause a great deal of anxiety, especially when it comes to confirming the diagnosis. In this episode, we talk about risk factors for disease, diagnosis and treatment of IC. About our Guest: Dr Tari Papavarnavas completed his medical degree at University of Pretoria and trained in General Internal Medicine and subsequently in Infectious Diseases at University of Cape Town. He was appointed as an Infectious Diseases sub-specialist in the Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine at UCT in 2022 with a focus on building on an existing Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) service at Groote Schuur Hospital in partnership with IPC nurses, Occupational Health practitioners, Quality Assurance, and ward liaisons Tari has also taken over as Director of the Cape Town GeoSentinel Travel Surveillance Network Site, which surveys travellers from South Africa and those visiting from abroad who act as sentinels for emerging and re-emerging infection Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates E-mail: mail.microbe@gmail.com Instagram: Microbe_Mail…

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Antimicrobial Stewardship in Low to middle-income settings: trials, tribulations and triumphs 36:04

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For World Antibiotic Awareness Week 2023, we are focusing on setting up antimicrobial stewardship in low and middle income settings with limited resources and a high burden of antimicrobial resistance. About our Guest: Prenika Jaglal is a Clinical Microbiologist having obtained an FC Path(Micro) and a Master’s degree at UKZN. She is currently based at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, at the National Health Laboratory Services and is also has a joint appointment at the University of the Witwatersrand as an undergraduate/postgraduate lecturer. Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates E-mail: mail.microbe@gmail.com Twitter: @microbemail Instagram: Microbe_Mail Facebook: Microbe Mail…

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Highlights from the PathRed Congress 2023 - Part 2 31:45

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The Pathology Research and Development Congress (PathRed) is hosted by the National Health Laboratory Service every 2nd year. With a focus on Pathology disciplines, it is a fantastic meeting to learn about diagnostic advancements in Africa. Ruan and I attended the meeting and were able to snatch a few interviews with speakers and delegates. To learn more about PathRed, visit the congress website at: https://pathred.nhls.ac.za/ Visit the Microbe Mail website to sign up for updates E-mail: mail.microbe@gmail.com Twitter: @microbemail Instagram: Microbe_Mail…

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acum 2 years37:01