Rahima Akter

@wub.edu.bd

Department of Pharmacy
World University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Rahima Akter


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10

Scopus Publications

57

Scholar Citations

3

Scholar h-index

2

Scholar i10-index

Scopus Publications

  • Prevalence, potential virulence genes, and antimicrobial resistance of Aeromonas spp. in farm-raised Oreochromis niloticus and Labeo rohita in Noakhali, Bangladesh
    Noimul Hasan Siddiquee, Imam Hossain, Popy Devnath, Farzana Islam, Rahima Akter, Mridul Gope Topu, Israt Jahan Mitu, Md Abdul Hannan, Md. Shariful Islam, Mohammad Sharif Uddin, Sutapa Bhowmik
    Plos One, 2026
    Background Aeromonas species are ubiquitous aquatic bacteria and opportunistic pathogens associated with motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS) in freshwater fish. MAS is characterized by hemorrhagic lesions and septicemia and can cause severe economic losses in aquaculture. The increasing occurrence of antimicrobial-resistant Aeromonas strains has raised concerns for fish health, aquaculture sustainability, and public health. Aim This study aimed to determine the prevalence, species distribution, virulence gene profiles, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Aeromonas spp. isolated from farm-raised Oreochromis niloticus and Labeo rohita collected from local markets in Noakhali, Bangladesh. Methods A total of 22 Aeromonas isolates were obtained from intestinal samples and characterized using biochemical assays and PCR amplification of the gyrB gene. Species-level identification and phylogenetic relationships were determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using the disc diffusion method following CLSI guidelines, and multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) was calculated for each isolate. PCR-based screening of nine virulence-associated genes was performed to assess pathogenic potential. Results Phylogenetic analysis identified five Aeromonas species, with A. veronii as the predominant species. Several virulence genes, particularly act , alt , and ast , were frequently detected among the isolates. High levels of antimicrobial resistance were observed against β-lactam antibiotics, and MAR index analysis indicated that many isolates were multidrug resistant. Conclusion These findings highlight the presence of virulence gene and multidrug-resistant Aeromonas in farm-raised fish in Bangladesh. Continuous surveillance and responsible antimicrobial use are essential to mitigate potential risks to aquaculture and public health.
  • Unlocking the phytochemical contents and therapeutic potential of Litsea monopetala leaves: Hypoglycemic and antibacterial activities
    Zubair Khalid Labu, Samira Karim, Rahima Akter, Sarder Arifuzzaman, Md. Hasibul Hassan, Md. Nahid Hasan, Atiqur Rahman, Md. Tarekur Rahman, Md. Ataur Rahman, Asma Akhtar
    Pharmacological Research Natural Products, 2026
    Litsea monopetala (LM), and bark are applied externally to treat swelling, bruises, skin infections, and inflammatory conditions. Occasionally, leave decoctions are used as topical washes or mild teas for digestive ailments and fever; however, internal use remains limited and guided by local knowledge. This study aimed to scientifically validate these traditional uses by assessing the hypoglycemic and antibacterial properties of LM leaves. Methanolic extracts were prepared via cold extraction and analyzed through standard phytochemical techniques and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, revealing a high concentration of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests in mice showed that both 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses significantly reduced blood glucose levels, with the higher dose yielding effects comparable to glibenclamide. In alloxan-induced diabetic mice, blood glucose levels dropped from 240.90 ± 6.16–145.17 ± 4.19 mg/dL by day 7 (p < 0.01). In normal mice, the 500 mg/kg dose also caused a significant reduction (p < 0.01). Antibacterial activity, evaluated using the disc diffusion method, revealed inhibition zones of 10–21 mm at a 400-μg dose, with carbon tetrachloride soluble fraction, chloroform soluble fraction, and ethyl acetate soluble fraction fractions demonstrating significantly stronger effects (p < 0.05). These findings support the traditional use of LM and suggest potential for its development into hypoglycemic and antimicrobial agents. The results support the traditional use of LM leaves, highlighting strong hypoglycemic and antibacterial potential. These effects are likely linked to rich phenolic and flavonoid content, indicating promise for future therapeutic applications. • Litsea monopetala leaves extract lowers blood glucose in diabetic and normoglycemic mice. • Methanolic extract shows antibacterial activity (10–21 mm inhibition zones). • Phenolic and flavonoid compounds identified as dominant constituents. • Dose-dependent hypoglycemic effect comparable to glibenclamide at 500 mg/kg. • Antibacterial efficacy correlates with phenolic and flavonoid content.
  • A decade of beetroot (Beta vulgaris) research 2015–2025: Phytoconstituents, mechanisms, preclinical and clinical insights
    Sarder Arifuzzaman, Md. Harun-Or-Rashid, Rahima Akter, Farjana Akter Rupon, Md. Shakil, Mst Reshma Khatun
    Phytomedicine Plus, 2026
  • Revealing microbial hazards in raw vegetables from Dhaka city markets: antibiotic resistance and food safety challenges
    R. Akter, M. Sannyun, B. Akter, Md.S.U. Rimon, S. Biswas, S. Dey, S.M.A. Abdullah
    Food Research, 2025
    Consuming fresh vegetables is crucial for maintaining good health, yet it's important to ensure their safety. Bacteria present on these vegetables can cause illness, underscoring the necessity for vigilance throughout the entire process from cultivation to consumption. This study has identified a significantly elevated prevalence of microorganisms in raw vegetables, primarily attributable to their consumption in an unprocessed state. The overarching objectives of this research encompassed the evaluation of microbiological contamination levels in raw vegetables, the isolation and characterisation of bacterial species therein, the establishment of antibiotic resistance profiles within the isolated microbial populations, and an assessment of the safety of these microorganisms concerning human consumption. A total of fifty-four samples, representing six distinct varieties of vegetables, were procured from various marketplaces within Dhaka city. These samples were expeditiously transported to the Research Laboratory at Primeasia University for analysis. For isolation of microbes, cultivated on selective media. Bacterial levels in the vegetables were determined through the employment of the plate count technique. Subsequent biochemical testing confirmed the likely identities of the isolated microorganisms. Antibiotic susceptibility was established via the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique conducted on the Mueller-Hinton agar medium. The range of microbial counts observed exhibited variability, spanning from 9.82 log CFU/g to 4.36 log CFU/g. Notably, cucumbers displayed the lowest bacterial percentage (12.71%), while Coriander leaves registered the highest incidence (25.4%). Furthermore, the research disclosed a higher prevalence of bacteria in vegetables sourced from local markets as opposed to those obtained from supermarkets. Among the bacterial species identified were Vibrio cholerae (12.50%), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (5.55%), Klebsiella spp. (11.81%), Escherichia coli (8.33%), and Salmonella spp. (9.08%) were the top five associated with foodborne illnesses. Additionally, Pseudomonas spp. (20.83%) and Staphylococcus aureus (25.69%) were indicative of contamination. Furthermore, the study involved an evaluation of antibiotic sensitivity in various bacterial isolates, with meropenem (90%) and chloramphenicol (70%) demonstrating significant efficacy across all isolated strains. Conversely, resistance was observed with respect to other antibiotics. These findings underscore the imperative for a heightened emphasis on personal hygiene and underscore the importance of raising awareness in this regard
  • Exploring the phytochemical contents and therapeutic potential of Ficus nervosa (L) leaves: focusing on the hemostatic and antibacterial activity
    Zubair Khalid Labu, Samira Karim, Rahima Akter, Mahfuza Akter, Kaniz Fatema, Farhina Rahman Laboni
    Discover Applied Sciences, 2025
    The leaves of Ficus nervosa have a long history of use in traditional medicine for the treatment of various illnesses., but scientific validation of its hemostatic and antibacterial properties remains scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the cold methanol extracts of these leaves for their hemostatic and antibacterial properties while conducting preliminary phytochemical screening and acute toxicity testing. As Ficus species being widely studied for their bioactive compounds, there is a significant document in the literature regarding the specific hemostatic and antibacterial effects of leaves extract. This study demonstrating that the extract exhibits an oral LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg in rats, indicating favorable safety profile. Additionally, over a 14-day period, the extract produced a dose-dependent and significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced bleeding time and blood loss in pre-treated rats, suggesting notable astringent and pro-coagulant properties. Antibacterial studies demonstrated that a 400 μg dose of all extract fractions effectively inhibited bacterial growth, with inhibition zones ranging from 10 to 21 mm. This dual activity suggests the potential therapeutic use of F. nervosa leaves extracts in infections where bleeding and bacterial control are needed. The study provides preclinical evidence of the therapeutic potential of F. nervosa leaves in managing bleeding and bacterial infections, thus addressing crucial evidence in the field of phytochemistry and therapeutic application. Future research is warranted to isolate the specific bioactive compounds and elucidate their mechanisms of action to further support the development of new treatments and contributing to modern medicinal practices based on this plant leaves.
  • Microbial Contamination and Antibiotic Resistance in Marketed Food in Bangladesh: Current Situation and Possible Improvements
    Mohammed Abdus Samad, Linnea Eberson, Ruhena Begum, Mohammad Gazi Shah Alam, Faisol Talukdar, Rahima Akter, Sinh Dang-Xuan, Garima Sharma, Shariful Islam, Nure Alam Siddiky, ASM Ashab Uddin, Mohammad Asheak Mahmud, Md Samun Sarker, Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Delia Grace, Johanna F. Lindahl
    Antibiotics, 2023
    Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health problem worldwide. Bangladesh, like its neighboring countries, faces many public health challenges, including access to safe food, inadequate food surveillance, as well as increasing AMR. This study investigated bacterial contamination and the AMR profile of pathogens in marketed food in Bangladesh and explored barriers to reducing AMR in the country. We collected 366 tomatoes, 359 chicken and 249 fish samples from 732 vendors in traditional markets in urban, peri-urban and rural areas in Bangladesh, as well as from 121 modern retails in Dhaka capital to analyse Vibrio cholerae and Escherichia coli in fish, Salmonella in chicken, and Salmonella and E. coli in tomatoes. Antibiotic susceptibility against 11 antibiotics was tested using a disc diffusion test and interpreted by an automated zone inhibition reader. In addition, a qualitative study using key informant interviews was conducted to explore antimicrobial use and AMR reduction potential in Bangladesh. We found E. coli in 14.21% of tomatoes and 26.91% of fish samples, while 7.38% of tomatoes and 17.27% of chicken were positive for Salmonella, and 44.98% of fish were positive for Vibrio cholerae. In total 231/319 (72.4%) of all pathogens isolated were multidrug-resistant (MDR) (resistant to three or more antibiotic groups). Qualitative interviews revealed an inadequate surveillance system for antibiotic use and AMR in Bangladesh, especially in the agriculture sector. To be able to fully understand the human health risks from bacterial hazards in the food and the AMR situation in Bangladesh, a nationwide study with a one health approach should be conducted, within all sectors, including AMR testing as well as assessment of the antimicrobial use and its drivers.
  • Heavy metal contamination in retailed food in Bangladesh: a dietary public health risk assessment
    Ruhena Begum, Rahima Akter, Sinh Dang-Xuan, Shariful Islam, Nure Alam Siddiky, ASM Ashab Uddin, Asheak Mahmud, Md Samun Sarker, Delia Grace, Mohammed Abdus Samad, Johanna F. Lindahl
    Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2023
    IntroductionContamination with heavy and toxic metals along the food value chain is a public health concern in Bangladesh.MethodsIn this study, 608 fish and chicken samples from traditional and modern retail outlets in urban, peri-urban, and rural areas were collected and analyzed for chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) contamination, using atomic absorption spectrometry method. The daily intake, target hazard quotient and the target carcinogenic risk (for lead only) as a result of fish and chicken consumption was calculated based on mean results, and by Monte Carlo simulation in @Risk with 100,000 iterations (quantitative risk assessment).ResultsCr and Cd were detected in 80–86% of both chicken meat and fish samples, while Pb positivity found in chicken meat and fish was 54.9 and 23.3%, respectively. The mean concentration (±SD) of Cr, Cd, and Pb in chicken meat were 0.66 ± 0.93, 0.02 ± 0.03, and 0.09 ± 0.10 mg/kg, respectively; and in fish were 0.49 ± 0.62, 0.02 ± 0.03, and 0.06 ± 0.09 mg/kg, respectively. The estimated daily intakes of Cr, Cd, and Pb from chicken and fish were lower than the maximum tolerable daily intake in all studied areas. In addition, the target carcinogenic risk for Pb in chicken was lower than the negligible range, which indicated the risk of cancer due to exposure to Pb through chicken meat and fish consumption was very low.DiscussionThe present study concludes that consumption of chicken meat and fish in Bangladesh, currently at very low levels, is unlikely to constitute a major health risk for humans in respect to these metals. However, continuous market surveillance for heavy metals in food stuff is recommended, especially since consumers may increase their meat intake.
  • Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic use and resistance among veterinary students in Bangladesh
    Lorraine Chapot, Md Samun Sarker, Ruhena Begum, Delower Hossain, Rahima Akter, Md Mehedi Hasan, Zamila Bueaza Bupasha, Md Bayzid, Md Salauddin, Md Shafiullah Parvej, AHM Musleh Uddin, Fazlul Hoque, Joya Chowdhury, Md Niyamat Ullah, Md Kaisar Rahman, Nure Alam Siddiky, Guillaume Fournié, Mohammed A. Samad
    Antibiotics, 2021
    The use of antibiotics in animals for both therapeutic and non-therapeutic purposes is a major driver of the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). While several studies have investigated prescription and consumption patterns in humans, little attention has been paid to the veterinary sector. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3002 veterinary students (VS) and non-medical students (NMS) from 12 universities in Bangladesh to explore their knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) about antibiotics and AMR using a self-administered questionnaire, and assess the influence of the veterinary curriculum. KAP regarding antibiotic use and AMR was significantly higher in veterinary than non-medical students, and in first-year than final-year students. However, gaps in knowledge and practices were highlighted, suggesting deficiencies in training. Moreover, final-year veterinary students were found to be more likely than first-year students to use antibiotics without instructions, which could indicate deficiencies in their curriculum. Although the study suggested a positive impact of the veterinary curriculum on KAP about antibiotics and AMR in Bangladesh, critical gaps remain that are likely to contribute to inadequate use in their future practice. Therefore, there is scope for improving educational programs on AMR in professional curricula.
  • Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella spp. Isolated from Apparently Healthy Pigeons in a Live Bird Market in Chattogram, Bangladesh
    World S Veterinary Journal, 2020
  • Behavioral preventive measures and the use of medicines and herbal products among the public in response to Covid-19 in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study
    Iftekhar Ahmed, Maruf Hasan, Rahima Akter, Bidduth Kumar Sarkar, Marufa Rahman, Md Samun Sarker, Mohammed A. Samad
    Plos One, 2020
    The present study was conducted to assess the behavioral preventive measures and the use of medicines and herbal foods/products among the public in response to Covid-19. A cross-sectional survey comprised of 1222 participants was conducted from 27 June to 20 July 2020. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to identify the differences in behavioral preventive practices across different demographic categories. To identify the factors associated with the use of preventive medicines and herbal foods/products, multivariable logistic regression was performed. Most participants adopted the recommended preventive practices such as washing hands more frequently (87.5%), staying home more often (85.5%), avoiding crowds (86%), and wearing masks (91.6%). About half of the smokers reported a decreased rate of smoking during the pandemic. Also, 14.8% took medicines, 57.6% took herbal foods/products, and 11.2% took both medicines and herbal foods/products as preventive measure against Covid-19. Arsenicum album, vitamin supplements, and zinc supplements were the most commonly used preventive medicines. Gender, age, and fear of Covid-19 were significantly associated with the use of both preventive medicines and herbal foods/products. For the management of Covid-19 related symptoms, paracetamol, antihistamines, antibiotics, and mineral (zinc and calcium) supplements were used most often. Most participants sought information from non-medical sources while using medicines and herbal products. Moreover, potentially inappropriate and unnecessary use of certain drugs was identified.

RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Gender Equity in Employment in Bangladesh: A study focusing on the Ready–Made Garments industry
    R Akter
    CQUniversity , 2025
    2025
  • Gender-based violence and harassment in Bangladesh’s ready-made garments (RMG) industry: exploring workplace well-being issues in policy and practice
    R Akter, J Teicher, Q Alam
    Sustainability 16 (5), 2132 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 31
  • Progress in Female Education, Gender Norms and Female Labour Participation in the Bangladesh Manufacturing Industry
    R Akter
    Constructive hope' in the constant struggle for women's rights, 25 years … , 2020
    2020
  • Business sustainability in Bangladesh: an analysis of economic sustainability in ready-made garments industries
    R Akter
    J. Mgmt. & Sustainability 6, 149 , 2016
    2016
    Citations: 8
  • Jute goods exports to Australia: an analysis of market potentials for Bangladeshi jute products
    R Akter
    International Journal of Management & Business Studies 5 (2), 21-30 , 2015
    2015
    Citations: 18

MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Gender-based violence and harassment in Bangladesh’s ready-made garments (RMG) industry: exploring workplace well-being issues in policy and practice
    R Akter, J Teicher, Q Alam
    Sustainability 16 (5), 2132 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 31
  • Jute goods exports to Australia: an analysis of market potentials for Bangladeshi jute products
    R Akter
    International Journal of Management & Business Studies 5 (2), 21-30 , 2015
    2015
    Citations: 18
  • Business sustainability in Bangladesh: an analysis of economic sustainability in ready-made garments industries
    R Akter
    J. Mgmt. & Sustainability 6, 149 , 2016
    2016
    Citations: 8
  • Gender Equity in Employment in Bangladesh: A study focusing on the Ready–Made Garments industry
    R Akter
    CQUniversity , 2025
    2025
  • Progress in Female Education, Gender Norms and Female Labour Participation in the Bangladesh Manufacturing Industry
    R Akter
    Constructive hope' in the constant struggle for women's rights, 25 years … , 2020
    2020