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Biomedical subjects

K G Kerr

Publications and source records attributed to K G Kerr.

53 records · Page 3Linked to original sources

Evaluation of the Mast ID and API 50CH systems for identification of Listeria spp.

A multipoint inoculation technique (Mast ID) for the identification and species determination of Listeria monocytogenes (sensu strictu) and six other species of the genus Listeria was evaluated. This was compared with the commercially available API 50CH system. Both methods successfully identified all 123 strains tested. The Mast ID system is inexpensive and utilizing a multipoint inoculation technique permits the screening of up to 21 isolates per 9-cm petri dish. The API 50CH system was more expensive and time consuming and is therefore suitable only for the examination of smaller numbers of strains.

Bacteriological Techniques↗

Reliable five-minute test strip method for identification of Streptococcus pyogenes.

A novel and rapid method (Strep Strip, Lab M) for identification of Streptococcus pyogenes was evaluated. The method combines the established test for pyroglutamyl aminopeptidase (PYR) with a rapid chromogenic test for beta-glucosidase on a paper strip. The test was evaluated with 274 clinical isolates and 237 culture collection isolates of beta-haemolytic streptococci. Streptococcus pyogenes was identified with 100% specificity. Six isolates identified as Lancefield group A and which might therefore be assumed to be Streptococcus pyogenes were shown by the test strip method not to be this species. The beta-glucosidase test on the test strip allowed differentiation between enterococci and Streptococcus pyogenes (both PYR positive) in all cases. The test strip method represents an economical and accurate method for identification of Streptococcus pyogenes in clinical material.

Aminopeptidases↗

The resurgence of tuberculosis in the tropics. An engineering approach to the control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other airborne pathogens: a UK hospital based pilot study.

The world-wide occurrence of tuberculosis (TB) is very high, and in many parts of the world prevalence has reached epidemic proportions. While the WHO's global 'directly observed therapy short-course' (DOTS) programme has yielded some notable successes, it has reached only 12% of the world's TB cases (1996 data). This suggests that the use of drug therapy alone is not enough to solve the global TB problem and that prevention using public health engineering techniques may provide a complementary solution. There are a number of engineering control strategies, such as the use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) and advanced ventilation techniques, which can be used to combat the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other airborne pathogens. This paper describes a pilot study currently being undertaken at the Leeds General Infirmary in the UK, which is investigating the use of UVGI to disinfect air in ward spaces.

Air Microbiology↗