Search

Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) is one of the most devastating viruses of papaya that has significantly hampered papaya production across the globe. Although PRSV resistance is known in some of its wild relatives, such as Vasconcellea cauliflora and in some of the improved papaya genotypes, the molecular basis of this resistance mechanism has not been studied and understood. Plant microRNAs are an important class of small RNAs that regulate the gene expression in several plant species against the invading plant pathogens. These miRNAs are known to manifest the expression of genes involved in resistance against plant pathogens, through modulation of the plant's biochemistry and physiology. In this study we made an attempt to study the overall expression pattern of small RNAs and more specifically the miRNAs in different papaya genotypes from India, that exhibit varying levels of tolerance or resistance to PRSV. Our study found that the expression of some of the miRNAs was differentially regulated in these papaya genotypes and they had entirely different miRNA expression profile in healthy and PRSV infected symptomatic plants. This data may help in improvement of papaya cultivars for resistance against PRSV through new breeding initiatives or biotechnological approaches such as genome editing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Horse gram yellow mosaic disease (HgYMD) is one of the major limiting factor for legumes production in India as it can cause economic loss up to 100%. Till date, horse gram yellow mosaic virus was rare to infect french bean, but now-a-days, it has become the major causal agent for yellow mosaic epidemics in the southern part of India. Few bush type varieties, resistant to yellow mosaic disease are released but not specifically resistant to HgYMD. So, systemic breeding work has been initiated to identify the resistant source for HgYMD in french bean. Methods: Seventyone genotypes of french bean were screened in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under natural epiphytotic as well as artificial condition during Summer, 2018 at ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru, India. Result: The genotypes varied for percent disease index (PDI), area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) and the apparent rate of infection per unit time period (r). Two varieties i.e., Jade-5058 and Arka Arjun were showing less PDI of 13.33 and 14.44, least average rate of infection of 0.64 and 0.65 and lowest AUDPC value of 350.54 and 359.16 respectively, compared to other genotypes. Average PDI of Arka Arjun and Jade-5058 were 13.33 and 12.22 under artificial screening, which were much lesser than susceptible check Arka Komal (PDI 92.22) and Arka Anoop (PDI 90.00). Resistant genotypes identified from this experiment can be used for breeding HgYMD resistant french bean lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus pandemic originated in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and swiftly spread worldwide, resulting in 1,813,811 deaths in 2020 and approximately 3,000,000 excess deaths. Amidst this crisis, Asians with Mongoloid features faced wrongful psychological and physical abuse globally due to unfounded accusations of spreading the virus. This discrimination extended to North Eastern Mongoloids in India, who suffered harassment from their compatriots. Interestingly, some Indians perpetrating such abuse within their country have themselves faced racial discrimination abroad, blamed for the spread of the Delta variant. This examination will explore the forms, nature, and scope of such racial harassment against Asian Mongoloids globally and North Eastern Mongoloids in India, drawing from various sources. It will critically analyze ethnocentric racial profiling, particularly of Mongoloid individuals, through the lens of biological diversity and the sociocultural framework of critical cultural relativism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The world has been hit by an unknown obstacle in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic. India also faced a never seen before situation in trying to contain the spread of COVID-19 by enforcing one of the most stringent lockdowns in the world. The billion-plus population of the country throws a severe challenge at the operational level in enforcing the measures. The frontline workers in these trying times such as the Police, Central Industrial Security Force, health-care workers, volunteers, and essential service workers have done a praiseworthy job under exceptionally hard conditions. Aim: The study aimed to investigate the awareness of COVID-19 among the frontline police workers who were posted during lockdown in our state. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire comprising 25 questions was randomly distributed among the police personnel who were on COVID-19 duty. The knowledge they had was assembled, assessed, and scrutinized. Results: A total of 150 police officers took part in the study. Mean age of 39.91 ± 9.96 years was seen. The majority of them had enough knowledge about the ongoing pandemic and they were seen to be taking good precautions to fight the virus. Conclusion: The joint effort of public and the frontline workers was the mainstream reason to bring our country back on track. Police had put their best efforts into controlling the spread of this contagion by maintaining a strict lockdown. They did immensely well and we as citizens should be grateful to them for protecting us from this pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pig industry is growing rapidly in India and contributes a major share of growth in the livestock sector. Over the last few years, there is a gradual increase in the adoption of pigs for production by economically weaker sections of the country. However, this production is affected by many respiratory diseases which are responsible for significant economic loss. The occurrence and impact of these diseases are still under-documented. The four important pathogens including porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), swine influenza A viruses (SIV) and classical swine fever virus (CSFV) are documented here. These diseases are highly devastating in nature and frequent outbreaks have been reported from different parts of the country. The rapid and specific diagnosis, effective prevention and control measures are required for the eradication of these diseases which is urgently required for the growth of the pig industry. This review highlights the prevalence, epidemiology, diagnostics and information gaps on important respiratory viral pathogens of pigs reported from different parts of India. This review also emphasizes the importance of these viral diseases and the urgent need to develop vaccines and effective measures for the eradication of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: On March, 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In adults it causes mild to severe infections, but in children it usually causes asymptomatic or mild illness. Being a new pandemic, it is prudent to analyse the clinical profile, laboratory parameters and severity interpreters in children to formulate optimal management protocols. Aim: To determine the clinical and laboratory profile of children hospitalised for Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) and to evaluate the correlation between clinical severity and laboratory parameters-C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and thrombocytopenia. Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective observational study which was undertaken for the duration of seven months from 1st April to 30th November 2020. The study included children aged 1 month to 12 years with the criteria of SARI and who were Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) positive. Test parameters such as Complete Blood Count (CBC), CRP, serum electrolytes and kidney function tests were performed at local laboratory as per standard guidelines. The correlation of laboratory parameters (thrombocytopenia, CRP and NLR) with disease severity was done with Pearson's Rho correlation coefficient. Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 118 (10.2%) children were tested positive for COVID-19, 71 (60.17%) were boys and 47 (39.83%) were girls. The commonest clinical symptoms were fever and tachypnea. Gastrointestinal symptoms were found in 54 (45.76%) of the cases. Myocarditis and shock were noticed in 10 (8.47%) children. In 25 (59.52%) of severe COVID-19 cases, NLR was >3.5 and 18 (42.86%) had thrombocytopenia. Seventeen children died of the disease with a mortality rate of 14.41%. Platelet count and NLR ratios were significantly correlated with disease severity (p≤0.05). Conclusion: Markers such as NLR and thrombocytopenia which can be used efficiently to assess the severity even in low resource settings, are relevant to a developing country like India. The ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes can be used as a prognostic marker in resource-constrained settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the genetic diversity of BmNPV isolates causing grasserie viral disease of mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori L. is essential for adoption of management strategies including biotechnological tools. The present study was aimed at the use of restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) profiling for studying the molecular diversity analysis of six BmNPV isolates collected from Devanahalli, Kolar, Shidlaghatta, Hosakote, Tumakuru, and Ramanagara areas in Karnataka, India (BmNPV-Ko, BmNPV-Ho, BmNPV-SG, BmNPV-DH, BmNPV-TM, BmNPV-Ram respectively). DNA was extracted from each of these isolates and subjected to digestion with different restriction enzymes EcoR1, BamH1, Sma1, Nco1, and a combination of BamH1+Nco1 and electrophoresed in 0.8% w/v agarose gel to visualize restriction enzyme profile. The analysis revealed that all the six BmNPV isolates had similar Nco1 and Sma1 restriction patterns, although there was variation in low molecular weight fragments. The EcoR1 and BamH1 restriction patterns were nearly the same for all the isolates except for the presence of an approximately 4kb and an additional 1.5kb polymorphic band only in BmNPV-TM and BmNPV-Ram isolates. BamH1+Nco1 digestion of the DNA from each isolate yielded numerous fragments, which was different in BmNPVRam isolate. Molecular diversity analysis can helps in understanding the evolution and phylogeny of the virus, enhance the knowledge on its pathogenicity and can help to develop and adopt suitable measures to combat and diagnose the disease to reduce crop loss and increase income generating ability of the farmer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The recent emergence of COVID-19 has caused an immense global public health crisis. The etiological agent of COVID-19 is the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. More research in the field of developing effective vaccines against this emergent viral disease is indeed a need of the hour. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify effective vaccine candidates that can offer a new milestone in the battle against COVID-19. Methods: We used a reverse vaccinology approach to explore the SARS-CoV-2 genome among strains prominent in India. Epitopes were predicted and then molecular docking and simulation were used to verify the molecular interaction of the candidate antigenic peptide with corresponding amino acid residues of the host protein. Results: A promising antigenic peptide, GVYFASTEK, from the surface glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 (protein accession number QIA98583.1) was predicted to interact with the human major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A*11-01 allele, showing up to 90% conservancy and a high antigenicity value. After vigorous analysis, this peptide was predicted to be a suitable epitope capable of inducing a strong cell-mediated immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Conclusions: These results could facilitate selecting SARS-CoV-2 epitopes for vaccine production pipelines in the immediate future. This novel research will certainly pave the way for a fast, reliable, and effective platform to provide a timely countermeasure against this dangerous virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on society and the current situation the country is in now clearly shows the failure of predicting the second wave in India. Several variants of the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19 have been detected around the world. With several mutations, some are said to be more contagious than the original strain; the recent one is the Indian variant. This necessitates a wholesome study for modeling and forecasting COVID-19 cases in India, which will help us to be prepared. The bottleneck underlines here is the very nature of the virus, which is continuously mutating and unavailability to real-time and precise data for the purpose. This paper is an effort in this regard to the model and forecast the second wave in India. The dataset covers the period 2021-01-16 to 2021-05-16, where different models were used. SARIMA modeling was used for forecasting the cases, deaths and vaccinations using the best-fitted model. The results depict that the prediction was good as the predicted figures were found to be close to the observed values. In this context, we tried to study the pattern of propagation of this variant in India by modeling and forecasting the new deaths, new cases, total deaths, total cases and the total vaccination. Findings are alarming, especially, in the context of the difficulties of the health system in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 has been a pandemic and global disaster since the beginning of 2020. However, there is a lack of city/locale based studies on status and trends of COVID-19 in India. Aim: The study aims to report the tests, total cases, cases per age group, zone wise confirmed cases and the status of hospitalization / home quarantining for COVID-19 for the smart city of Vadodara. Methods: A retrospective secondary data analysis conducted on all the COVID-19 cases reported from 3rd April to 15th September 2020 for the city of Vadodara. Data were accessed through the Website of Vadodara Municipal Corporation and analyzed on cumulative number of tests, positive cases, deaths and patients’ recovery for comparison of Vadodara with the State, National and International statistics. Results: COVID-19 was found to be more prevalent among males. The age group of 51-60 years had the highest number of cases. The number of deaths was highest in the age group of 61-70 years. Nonetheless, case fatality rate was highest in the age group of 71-80 years. Vadodara also has shown a steady decrease in test positivity rate and fared better in terms of recovery rate as compared to Gujarat, India and the world. However, 15 day moving average of positive cases and deaths indicated that there will be an increase of the cases in near future. Conclusion: Vadodara showed positive trends in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Vadodara administration had managed to reduce the case fatality rate as compared to Gujarat, India and rest of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the time of ending days of the year 2019, the news regarding outbreak of virus which was later on known as "Corona" came from Chinese City Wuhan. Initially, the people were not aware of the nature and impact of the virus but when the news of people dying in Wuhan due to this virus started spreading across the world, then the whole world felt itself in a fix. The European Countries which were having a very good medical infrastructure have drastically failed in preventing the infection of the virus Corona and innumerable people have lost their lives in many countries such as Italy, France, America and many more. Although, initially the people of India were not taking this as so seriously, yet after recording a 1st case in in January 2020 in the State of Kerla, the Government of India took the necessary preventive measures and started awaking its citizens regarding the virus. In spite of taking all preventive measures whole country had to undergo a long lockdown in order to prevent the further spreading of the disease and save lives and by taking such preventive measures, India could minimise the loss, which could have been higher than in which it has occurred. At the same time the people as well as Government of United States of America did not take it seriously and not adopted the preventive measures, consequently despite having a latest rich technology and best medical infrastructure, the United States of America has to suffer from irreparable losses of lives as well as wealth. The author has intended to carry out a comparative study in respect of both countries India and USA in order to highlight the biological impacts and social responses of the people of both countries. The report of the study will be based upon the primary and secondary data as well as empirical study carried out by the author. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) develop acute exacerbations (AE), with varying natural history. The exacerbation is triggered by infection, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The study on infectious aetiology of AECOPD is largely restricted to only viral or only bacterial aetiology. There are no studies from India that have investigated multiple viral, bacterial, and fungal associations from the same group of patients. This prospective study was conducted over 2 years to estimate the incidence and profile of viral infections in AECOPD patients, their coinfection with other bacterial and fungal agents, and association of the type and pattern of infective agent with the clinical severity. Materials and Methods: Seventy-four AECOPD cases were included in the study. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction was performed from nasopharyngeal swab using Fast Track Diagnostics Respiratory Pathogens 21 Plus Kit. Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stain, Modified ZN, and potassium hydroxide (KOH) mount were performed for Mycobacteria, Nocardia, and fungal elements. Bacterial cultures and fungal cultures were done as per the standard techniques. Serum samples were tested for Mycoplasma and Chlamydia pneumoniae immunoglobulin M enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The number of AECOPD events involving only viral infection, only bacterial infection, bacterial-viral coinfection, and no infection were 43 (58.1%), 32 (43.2%), 20 (27%), and 19 (25.7%), respectively. Influenza A virus was the most common virus (22/43, 51%) identified. In 26 patients, monoviral infections were found, and in 17 patients, polyviral infections were identified, the most common pattern being influenza A and B virus, followed by human rhinovirus and human parainfluenza. The most common bacteria isolated were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9/32,28%) followed by Acinetobacter baumanii and Klebsiella pneumoniae (7/32, 21%). Among the viral-bacterial coinfection, human coronavirus NL63 infection was always associated with a bacterial infection. Conclusion: This information on the various viral and bacterial etiologies of respiratory infections in AECOPD in this part of India will improve the understanding of the management of AECOPD using a timely institution of antivirals and reduce the overuse of antibiotics and the implementation of routine influenza vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a fatal disease of small ruminants which has spread rapidly to previously PPR‐free countries in recent decades, causing enormous economic losses in the affected regions. Here, two newly emerged PPR virus (PPRV) isolates from India and from the Middle East were tested in an animal trial to analyse their pathogenesis, and to evaluate serological and molecular detection methods. Animals infected with the two different PPRV isolates showed marked differences in clinical manifestation and scoring. The PPRV isolate from India was less virulent than the virus from the Middle East. Commercially available rapid detection methods for PPRV antigen (two Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) and one antigen ELISA) were evaluated in comparison with a nucleic acid detection method. For this purpose, ocular and nasal swabs were used. Due to the easy non‐invasive sampling, faecal samples were also analysed. For all rapid antigen detection methods, a high specificity of 100% was observed independent of the sample matrix and dilution buffers used. Both antigen ELISA and LFD tests showed highest sensitivities for nasal swabs. Here, the detection rate of the antigen ELISA, the LFD‐PESTE‐TEST and the LFD‐ID Rapid‐Test was 78%, 75% and 78%, respectively. Ocular swabs were less suitable for antigen detection of PPRV. These results reflect the increased viral load in nasal swabs of PPRV infected goats compared to ocular swabs. The faecal samples were the least suitable for antigen detection. In conclusion, nasal swab samples are the first choice for the antigen and genome detection of PPRV. Nevertheless, based on the excellent diagnostic specificity of the rapid tests, positive results generated with other sample matrices are solid. In contrast, negative test results can be caused on the reduced analytical sensitivity of the rapid antigen tests and must be treated with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the absence of approved vaccines and therapeutics for use in humans, Nipah virus (NiV) continues to cause fatal outbreaks of encephalitis and respiratory disease in Bangladesh and India on a near-annual basis. We determined that a single dose of a lipid nanoparticle nucleoside-modified messenger RNA vaccine encoding the soluble Hendra virus glycoprotein protected up to 70% of Syrian hamsters from lethal NiV challenge, despite animals having suboptimally primed immune responses before challenge. These data provide a foundation from which to optimize future messenger RNA vaccination studies against NiV and other highly pathogenic viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The RNA genome of the emerging novel coronavirus is rapidly mutating, and its human-to-human transmission rate is increasing. Hence, temporal dissection of their evolutionary dynamics, the nature of variations among different strains, and understanding the single nucleotide polymorphisms in the endemic settings are crucial. Delineating the heterogeneous genomic constellations of this novel virus will help us understand its complex behavior in a particular geographical region. Objective: This is a comprehensive analysis of 95 Indian SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences available from the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) repository during the first 6 months of 2020 (January through June). Evolutionary dynamics, gene-specific phylogeny, and the emergence of the novel coevolving mutations in 9 structural and nonstructural genes among circulating SARS-CoV-2 strains across 12 different Indian states were analyzed. Methods: A total of 95 SARS-CoV-2 nucleotide sequences submitted from India were downloaded from the GISAID database. Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis, version X software was used to construct the 9 phylogenetic dendrograms based on nucleotide sequences of the SARS-CoV-2 genes. Analyses of the coevolving mutations were done in comparison to the prototype SARS-CoV-2 from Wuhan, China. The secondary structure of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase/nonstructural protein NSP12 was predicted with respect to the novel A97V mutation. Results: Phylogenetic analyses revealed the evolution of "genome-type clusters" and adaptive selection of "L"-type SARS-CoV-2 strains with genetic closeness to the bat severe acute respiratory syndrome--like coronaviruses. These strains were distant to pangolin or Middle East respiratory syndrome--related coronavirus strains. With regard to the novel coevolving mutations, 2 groups have been seen circulating in India at present, the "major group" (66/95, 69.4%) and the "minor group" (21/95, 22.1%), harboring 4 and 5 coexisting mutations, respectively. The "major group" mutations fall in the A2a clade. All the minor group mutations, except 11083G>T (L37F, NSP6 gene), were unique to the Indian isolates. Conclusions: This study highlights the rapidly evolving SARS-CoV-2 virus and the cocirculation of multiple clades and subclades. This comprehensive study is a potential resource for monitoring the novel mutations in the viral genome, interpreting changes in viral pathogenesis, and designing vaccines or other therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer accounts for a high number of deaths worldwide. Risk factors are extensive for cervix cancer but Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a prime role in its development. Different strains of HPV are prevalent globally, which show different grades of mortality and morbidity among women. This study is planned to evaluate the molecular mechanism of different strains of HPV infection and progression leading to cervix cancer. This review includes different research articles on cervix cancer progression reported from India and all over the world. HPV 16 and 18 are prevalent strains using heparan sulfate-independent and dependent pathways for viral replication inside the cell. It also uses transcription mechanisms through NF-kappa B, FOXA-1, and AP-1 genes while strains like HPV-35, 45, and 52 are also predominant in India, which showed a very slow mechanism of progression due to which mortality rate is low after their infection with these strains. HPV uses E6 and E7 proteins which activate NF-kappa B and AP-1 pathway which suppresses the tumor suppressor gene and activates cytokine production, causing inflammation and leading to a decrease in apoptosis due to Caspase-3 activation. In contrast, the E7 protein involves HOXA genes and decreases apoptotic factors due to which mortality and incidence rates are low in viruses that use E7 motifs. Some HPV strains employ the cap-dependent pathway, which is also associated with lower mortality and infection rates. • The specific strain variant of HPV is a deciding factor for the diagnosis and prognosis of cervical cancer. • Inhibited NF-KB and AP-1 pathways contribute to cervix cancer by enhancing hyperimmune response and dysregulating transcription factors. • HPV utilizes host mechanisms driven by E6 and E7 transcription factors, to replicate its genome, repress tumor suppressors, promote cell division, and inhibit apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monkeypox is a viral disease; its outbreak was recently declared a global emergency by the World Health Organization. For the first time, a monkeypox virus (MPXV)-infected patient was found in India. Various researchers back-to-back tried to find the solution to this health emergency just after COVID-19. In this review, we discuss the current outbreak status of India, its transmission, virulence factors, symptoms, treatment, and the preventive guidelines generated by the Indian Health Ministry. We found that monkeypox virus (MPXV) disease is different from smallpox, and the age group between 30-40 years old is more prone to MPXV disease. We also found that, besides homosexuals, gays, bisexuals, and non-vegetarians, it also affects normal straight men and women who have no history of travel. Close contact should be avoided from rats, monkeys and sick people who are affected by monkeypox. To date, there are no monkeypox drugs, but Tecovirimat is more effective than other drugs that are used for other viral diseases like smallpox. Therefore, we need to develop an effective antiviral agent against the virulence factor of MXPV., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Potato virus Y (PVY) is the most important viral disease, having the highest economic impact on potato production worldwide including India. Green peach aphid, Myzus persicae is considered as the most efficient, cosmopolitan and commonly abundant aphid vector for PVY. The present study was conducted to know the effect of different crop labelled insecticides on aphid population and virus spread. The results revealed that thiamethoxam 25 WG was superior in reducing aphid population (3.67) which was followed by imidacloprid 17.8 SL (4.47). DAC-ELISA recorded lower spread of PVY in thiamethoxam 25 WG and imidacloprid 17.8 SL treated plots. Overall, the study revealed that insecticides were efficient in reducing aphid population, which are the vectors of this virus, but could not completely limit the virus spread in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), a high risk group viral disease spread by Hylomma ticks, is an important concern in India. • Very limited detection methods and therapeutic interventions are reported against the disease. • This manuscript reports a novel simplified viral RNA extraction coupled rapid dry down visual isothermal detection method for the first time against the disease. • The developed method was evaluated in clinical samples were found very promising results with a high sensitivity and specificity. • The another unique feature of this development is the platform that offers an on-site detection without limiting the use of hi-end equipments. Among recently prevalent tick-borne infections in India, Kyasanur Forest Virus Disease (KFD) is an important public health concern. During last decade the emergence of cases apart from endemic zone raised concern about case positivity. Early diagnosis is therefore very important in disease management and primary containment. This study, aimed to develop a simplified viral RNA extraction in combination to dry down format of novel isothermal assay for (Reverse Transcription- Polymerase Spiral reaction) specific and rapid identification of Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus targeting viral envelope gene. The one step method was optimized by magnetic bead based viral RNA extraction followed by isothermal RT-PSR assay in heat bath at 63⁰C for 60 minutes. Further, visual results interpretation was done by color change of Hydroxy Naphthol Blue dye. The detection limit of the assay was found 10 RNA copies/rxn with comparable to silica column based viral RNA combined real time qPCR. No cross reactivity was observed with other closely related flaviviruses. The assay was evaluated with clinical samples has shown >99% concordance between two methods. This is the first report of sample extraction coupled isothermal detection of KFD in a simplified manner without a need of any hi-end equipment. The assay developed here has potential to use as an alternate for field-based detection in resource limited settings for KFD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• India and Pakistan share a common public health concern: rabies, which affects both humans and animals. • Both countries have established national rabies control initiatives, but these programs face challenges such as inadequate funding and limited access to healthcare in rural areas. • Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are also working to control rabies in both India and Pakistan. • Cross-Border Cooperation Crucial in Rabies Fight: SAARC Initiatives Promoting Regional Prevention. • Crucial Steps: Raising Rabies Awareness and Accessible PEP in Both Countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardamom mosaic virus (CdMV; genus Macluravirus), which causes mosaic (katte) disease in cardamom, is a highly variable member of the family Potyviridae. So far, the complete genome sequence of one isolate from Karnataka (KS) has been reported. In the present study, we determined the complete genome sequence of a CdMV isolate from Kerala (KI) and the complete CP gene sequences of nine isolates of CdMV from Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, India. The complete genome of CdMV (KI) consists of 8255 nucleotides (nt) with two open reading frames (ORFs). The large ORF, potentially coding for a polyprotein of 2638 amino acids (aa), is further processed into nine mature proteins at eight cleavage sites. The second ORF, PIPO (pretty interesting Potyviridae ORF) starting with a C(A) 6 motif, encodes a small protein of 56 aa. The viral genome contains an additional 13 nt in the 5' untranslated region (UTR) and 6 nt in the CP gene, as well as a deletion of 13 nt at the 3' UTR in comparison to the KS isolate of CdMV. The complete viral genome and polyprotein share 76% and 85% sequence identity with the KS isolate of CdMV, indicating that the present isolate is highly divergent from the KS isolate. Sequencing and analysis of the CP sequences of 16 CdMV isolates from different regions revealed high heterogeneity among them, suggesting that they should be considered members of more than one species., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Austria, part of Springer Nature.)

During October 2020, suddenly many cases were reported with Dengue like Illness in Sahawa village, Rajasthan. Blood samples collected from 68 patients were tested for Dengue NS1 antigen and IgM antibodies for Dengue, Chikungunya, Scrub typhus, Leptospira and Brucella by ELISA, Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika viral RNA by multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), 41.17% samples were positive for Dengue; 25% were positive by Dengue PCR, 17.64% for NS1 Ag,14.70% for IgM ELISA, 20.58% were positive for antibodies either for Scrub typhus (4.41%), Leptospira (7.35%) or Brucella (10.29%). Dengue was seen in 41.17% cases and other etiological agents in 20.58% cases., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest None., (Copyright © 2023 Indian Association of Medical Microbiologists. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Swine flu caused by influenza virus and it’s a respiratory disease of pigs. The people like farmers and pork processors working in close proximity with pigs are at higher risk of getting swine flu. In India, a total of 117 deaths and 1,154 cases have been reported in the first two months of year 2018. Objectives: To assess the community perception about Swine flu among adults in an urban slum of District Rohtak. Methodology: The study was a community based epidemiological study with cross-sectional design and carried out by visiting house to house. The study recruited 500 adults of age 18-60 years. Results: The study found that there was no significant difference between gender and age with heard of swine flu while education wise (p= 0.002) and caste wise (p=0.011) awareness of swine flu was found to be statistically significant. Conclusion and Recommendation: The study concluded that the majority of subjects heard about swine flu and majority of subjects said that swine flu spread after coughing or sneezing. The study recommends that health care functionaries should spread awareness about signs and symptoms of swine flu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Infective Keratitis is most common cause of corneal blindness in Rural India. Agricultural farmers are more at risk. Fungi and Bacteria are the main cause for this ocular ailment. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent the corneal blindness. Aim: To evaluate common etiological factors causing Infective Keratitis in the region of Northern Telangana. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at Tertiary Eye Care Hospital, Regional Eye Hospital, Warangal, Telangana State. Fifty patients were admitted with infective keratitis were clinically evaluated. Each case was analysed and results were recorded as per etiology, clinical symptoms and signs, complications and visual outcome. Results: Age group greater than 40 years (58%) were more common with male predominance (54%) was observed. People living rural area (72%) were affected more than urban areas. Agricultural labour (52%) was mostly seen with infective keratitis. Most of the cases were with trauma (62%) with vegetative matter was mostly seen. Most of the cases were acute (78%) in origin. Fungi were most common organism isolated from the cultures. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus (62%) were common species isolated from bacterial origin and they were antibiotic sensitive (92%). Aspergillous was common fungus isolated Diffuse Corneal ulcer was most common complication. Malnutrition was main cause in systemic illness. Most of the patients before treatment were with no passage of light after treatment visual acuity has prognosis to 6/18 vision. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment may improve the visual prognosis and prevent Corneal blindness due to Infective Keratitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian aquaculture industry was growing steadily and showed a sixfold growth in production over the last two decades. However, the overall development of aquaculture in India did not reach the levels as projected due to frequent disease outbreaks and related issues. Shrimp and fish are predominantly affected by viruses including white spot syndrome virus, monodon baculovirus, hepatopancreatic parvovirus, viral nervous necrosis, white tail disease, and hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis baculovirus that cause outbreaks across the countries. Owing to these viral pathogens, the production of aquaculture fishes and crustaceans has dramatically been dropped. There are no specific measures to control these viral infections since it causes mortality at all life stages of cultured aquatic organisms. Early detection of the diseases may be beneficial to prevent the spreading and mass mortality. In India, the Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture has developed a non-invasive diagnostic tool for early and precise detection of monodon baculovirus infection in Indian tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon using SYBR Green-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. More than twenty-five cell lines from freshwater, brackish water, and marine fish have been developed, characterized, and stored in C. Abdul Hakeem College for research and viral diagnosis. This review reveals the distinctive tools that are being used in aquaculture for the detection of pathogens and preventive measures. Advanced molecular methods such as nested PCR and SYBR Green-based real-time PCR are found to be sensitive and effective for the quantitation. Simple and inexpensive methods such as microscopic evaluation and histopathological analysis detects the progression of the disease. These assays can be used as a diagnostic method for emerging diseases in addition to avoid forthcoming of another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objectives: The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 and H5N8 viruses have been one of the leading causes of avian diseases worldwide, resulting in severe economic losses and posing potential zoonotic risk. There are no reports on the correlation of the seasonality of H5N1 and H5N8 viruses with the migratory bird season in India, along with the species affected. The present report describes the distribution and seasonality of HPAI outbreaks in India from 2006 to 2021., Methods: The data on the occurrence and locations of outbreaks in India and affected bird species were collated from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations database and grouped by month and year. The distribution and seasonality of HPAI H5N1 and H5N8 viruses were analyzed., Results: A total of 284 H5N1 outbreaks were reported since 2006, with a surge in 2021. The initial outbreaks of H5N1 were predominantly in poultry. Since 2016, 57 outbreaks of H5N8 were also reported, predominantly in wild birds. Most of the outbreaks of HPAI were reported from post monsoon onwards till pre-summer season (i.e. between October and March) with their peak in winter, in January. Apart from poultry, the bird species such as owl, Indian peafowl, lesser adjutant, crows and wild migratory birds such as demoiselle crane, northern pintail and bar-headed goose were positive for HPAI., Interpretation & Conclusions: Such studies on the seasonality of HPAI outbreaks would help in the development of prevention and control strategies. The recent human infections of H5N1 and H9N2 viruses highlight the need to strengthen surveillance in wild, resident, migratory birds and in poultry along with One Health studies in India.

Background: Ever since Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever [CCHF] discovered in India, several outbreaks of this disease have been recorded in Gujarat State, India. During the year 2011 to 2015 several districts of Gujarat and Rajasthan state (Sirohi) found to be affected with CCHF including the positivity among ticks and livestock. During these years many infected individuals succumbed to this disease; which subsequently led to nosocomial infections. Herein, we report CCHF cases recorded from Rajasthan state during January 2015. This has affected four individuals apparently associated with one suspected CCHF case admitted in a private hospital in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Case presentation: A 30-year-old male was hospitalized in a private hospital in Jodhpur, Rajasthan State, who subsequently had developed thrombocytopenia and showed hemorrhagic manifestations and died in the hospital. Later on, four nursing staff from the same hospital also developed the similar symptoms (Index case and Case A, B, C). Index case succumbed to the disease in the hospital at Jodhpur followed by the death of the case A that was shifted to AIIMS hospital, Delhi due to clinical deterioration. Blood samples of the index case and Case A, B, C were referred to the National institute of Virology, Pune, India for CCHF diagnosis from the different hospitals in Rajasthan, Delhi and Gujarat. However, a sample of deceased suspected CCHF case was not referred. Subsequently, blood samples of 5 nursing staff and 37 contacts (Case D was one of them) from Pokhran area, Jaisalmer district were referred to NIV, Pune. Conclusions: It clearly indicated that nursing staff acquired a nosocomial infection while attending the suspected CCHF case in an Intensive Care Unit of a private hospital in Jodhpur. However, one case was confirmed from the Pokhran area where the suspected CCHF case was residing. This case might have got the infection from suspected CCHF case or through other routes. CCHF strain associated with these nosocomial infections shares the highest identity with Afghanistan strain and its recent introduction from Afghanistan cannot be ruled out. However, lack of active surveillance, unawareness among health care workers leads to such nosocomial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Shilajit, a herbomineral substance exuded from rocks in steep mountainous regions, has been used for thousands of years by the Indian Ayurvedic and Siddha systems of traditional medicine to relieve ailments and enhance quality of life. Although a large number of therapeutic properties have been ascribed to Shilajit, its therapeutic potential is still largely unexplored by modern research and many of its claimed bioactivities lack scientific validation. The present study was undertaken to investigate the antiviral activity of Shilajit against a panel of viruses including herpes simplex type 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human rotavirus (HRV), and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). Materials and methods The antiviral activity of Shilajit was assayed in vitro by plaque reduction and virus yield assays and the major mechanism of action was investigated by virucidal and time-of-addition assays. Results Shilajit exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory activity against HSV1, HSV2, HCMV, and RSV infectivity in vitro (EC 50 values: 31.08 μg/ml, 12.85 μg/ml, 34.54 μg/ml, and 30.35 μg/ml, respectively), but was inactive against HRV and VSV. Humic acid, a constituent of Shilajit, displayed the same spectrum of activity. Partial virus inactivation and interference with virus attachment were both found to contribute to the antiviral activity of Shilajit. Conclusions The results of the present study demonstrate that Shilajit is endowed with broad, yet specific, antiviral activity in vitro and constitutes a natural source of antiviral substances. Further work remains to be done to assess its efficacy in vivo . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Cumin; Virus; Disease; Symptom EN Cumin Virus Disease Symptom 877 877 1 06/01/22 20220501 NES 220501 Plant viruses have caused a major limitation on export of produce in a number of countries worldwide, restricting food supply and economic growth. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of Vanilla distortion mosaic virus (VDMV) infecting cumin crop in India I . i Publisher's Note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Virus, Disease, Symptom, Cumin. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: The study was undertaken to assess presence of sub-clinical bluetongue in the state of Assam, one of the un-affected north-eastern state of India. Materials and Methods: Serum samples were collected from apparently healthy as well as suspected sheep, goat and cattle from different districts of Assam encompassing various agro-climatic zones. Anti-BT antibodies were screened in sera using indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). Results: Out of total 313 animal serum samples screened (sheep-68, goat-195, cattle-50), 58.82% of sheep, 31.79% of goat and 70.00% of cattle serum samples were found positive. The prevalence of anti-BT antibodies in different agro climatic zones ranged between 31-50%. Conclusion: This study revealed high seroprevalence of bluetongue in cattle, sheep and goats in Assam. Incidence of bluetongue in animals of Assam being not reported so far; the present seroprevalence status of bluetongue in Assam indicates presence of sub-clinical infection in the state for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) has taken its toll across most parts of India. We aimed to study its epidemiology, clinical characteristics and outcomes from an Indian multidisciplinary intensive care unit (ICU). Materials and Methods: All patients admitted to our ICU with a flu-like illness and who tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 by reverse -transcriptase polymerase- chain -reaction assay during a 3 month period were prospectively studied. Results: Thirty one patients were admitted to the ICU during the study period. Patients were in the younger age group with a median age of 35 years (IQR: 28.2-42.8). Obesity was the commonest risk factor. Twenty six patients (83.9%) required ventilator support; the median duration of ventilator support was 10 days (IQR: 4-22). Severe hypoxemia was the predominant feature in all patients. Circulatory failure requiring vasopressors occurred in 18 (58.1%) patients and acute kidney injury in 6 (3.2%) patients. Twenty six patients were alive at the end of 28 days; subsequently all except one were discharged. The median duration of hospital stay was 15 (IQR: 8-22.5) days. Increasing APACHE II scores were associated with an increased risk of death (Hazard Ratio: 1.1; CI: 1.08 -1.2; P = 0.04). Mean tidal volumes in non-survivors were significantly lower; this was related to poor lung compliance in this group. Conclusions: 2009 H1N1 infection caused severe disease in relatively young patients without significant co-morbidities, characterized by severe hypoxemia and the requirement for prolonged mechanical ventilation. Extra-pulmonary organ failure included circulatory and renal failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study conducted to gain information regarding the diseases affecting bamboos planted in nurseries and plantations in Wayanad, India. During the study, causal agents of disease underwent isolation and there pathogens tested. The study found out that causal agents including Fusarium moniliforme and Botryobasidium salmonicolor caused culm rot and thread blight respectively. The diseases found in bamboos can be eliminated through fungicides and surface burning.

Limited genomic sampling in many high-incidence countries has impeded studies of severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genomic epidemiology. Consequently, critical questions remain about the generation and global distribution of virus genetic diversity. We investigated SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Gujarat, India, during the state's first epidemic wave to shed light on spread of the virus in one of the regions hardest hit by the pandemic. By integrating case data and 434 whole-genome sequences sampled across 20 districts, we reconstructed the epidemic dynamics and spatial spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Gujarat. Our findings indicate global and regional connectivity and population density were major drivers of the Gujarat outbreak. We detected >100 virus lineage introductions, most of which appear to be associated with international travel. Within Gujarat, virus dissemination occurred predominantly from densely populated regions to geographically proximate locations that had low population density, suggesting that urban centers contributed disproportionately to virus spread.

• Nine putative novel viruses were discovered from public domain transcriptome datasets of five endangered plant species native to India and China. • Of the fifteen recovered viral genomic segments, ten were coding-complete and five were partial. • The viral genomic sequences recovered in the current study will serve as a resource for further characterization of the identified viruses. Viruses are abundant entities that infect almost every living organism. In recent years, Next Generation Sequencing coupled with bioinformatic analyses is widely adopted for identification of known and unknown viruses in a plant sample. In the present study, nine putative novel viruses were discovered from public domain transcriptome datasets of five endangered plant species by de novo assembly of reads using CLC and SPAdes followed by BLAST analysis. Of the identified viruses, ten coding-complete and five partial genomic segments were recovered. Based on phylogeny and BLAST analysis, the identified viruses were putatively assigned to various plant viral genera except dactylorhiza hatagirea benylike virus that probably represents a new group of plant virus. The methodology followed can be adopted for the discovery of novel viruses in plant species with little genomic information. Viral genome sequences recovered in the study will serve as a valuable resource for further characterization of identified viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted from July 1, 2020 to September 25, 2020 in a dedicated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hospital in Delhi, India to provide evidence for the presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus in atmospheric air and surfaces of the hospital wards. Swabs from hospital surfaces (patient's bed, ward floor, and nursing stations area) and suspended particulate matter in ambient air were collected by a portable air sampler from the medicine ward, intensive care unit, and emergency ward admitting COVID-19 patients. By performing reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for E-gene and RdRp gene, SARS-CoV-2 virus was detected from hospital surfaces and particulate matters from the ambient air of various wards collected at 1 and 3-m distance from active COVID-19 patients. The presence of the virus in the air beyond a 1-m distance from the patients and surfaces of the hospital indicates that the SARS-CoV-2 virus has the potential to be transmitted by airborne and surface routes from COVID-19 patients to health-care workers working in COVID-19 dedicated hospital. This warrants that precautions against airborne and surface transmission of COVID-19 in the community should be taken when markets, industries, educational institutions, and so on, reopen for normal activities., (© 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

• COVID-19 has affected armed conflict dynamics by changing the strategic environment for armed groups. • Armed conflict escalation is more likely than de-escalation in the face of the pandemic. • Armed conflict de-escalation occurred in the face of COVID-19 in some countries. • Grievances and health diplomacy have so far only played a minor role. This article studies the impact of COVID-19 on armed conflict. The pandemic has significant health, economic and political effects. These can change the grievances and opportunity structures relevant for armed conflicts to either increase or decrease conflict risks. I analyse empirical evidence from Afghanistan, Colombia, India, Iraq, Libya, Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand and Yemen from the first six months of 2020. Results suggest that COVID-19 provides little opportunities for health diplomacy and cooperation, but it also has not yet driven grievances to a level where they became relevant for armed conflicts. Four countries have encountered temporary declines in armed conflicts, mostly due to strategic decisions by governments or rebels to account for impeded logistics and to increase their popular support. Armed conflict levels have increased in five countries, with conflict parties exploiting either state weakness or a lack of (international) attention due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a worrisome trend given the tremendous impacts of armed conflict on human security and on the capabilities of countries to deal with health emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diarrhoeal diseases are important cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates of various animal species. Rotaviruses cause neonatal diarrhea in calves. The present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of rotavirus infection among cow calves in Mathura and adjacent regions. During the present study 101 diarrheic and 29 non diarrheic stool samples collected from cow calves were screened for rotavirus. Of the101 diarrheic samples 17 samples (16.83%) were found to be positive for rotavirus by RNA PAGE. All the non-diarrheic samples were negative for rotavirus. All the isolates exhibited 4-2-3-2 migration pattern suggesting group A rotavirus. Depending on migration of 10th and 11th segments, all the isolates were of long pattern. Three different electropherotypes were detected in this study period. Male diarrheic calves were found to be more susceptible to rotavirus infection (20.37%) than female diarrheic calves (12.76%). Besides Rotavirus antigen was detected by ELISA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidney tissue samples of field outbreak of visceral gout in commercial broilers from Anand District of Gujarat, India were processed for virus isolation, identification and molecular characterization. Isolates produced typical embryo lesions of curling and stunting suggestive of infectious bronchitis after three passages. RT-PCR and sequence analysis was carried out from infected allantoic fluid. The nucleotide sequence was found to have 99% nucleotide sequence identity with avian infectious bronchitis virus strain 4/91(pathogenic). Phylogenetic analysis using Clustal W program, the virus was found to group with 793/B and 4/91 strain of viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabies is acute viral encephalitis produced by an RNA virus belong to Family of Rhabdoviridae. The genus name of this virus arises from Lyssa, the Greek goddess of frenzy. This virus is bullet in shape and seen through only the electron microscopy. It is a zoonotic disease that affects all mammals and is endemic in India around 17 million animal bite cases are estimated and 20,000 human deaths occur due to rabies every year in India and also be kill 59,000 peoples in countries of Africa and Asia in each year. Earlier in India, nervous tissue vaccines (NTV) were most commonly used for treatment of rabies but this was replaced by modern, safe and effective cell culture vaccines (CCVs), because of inherent neuroparalytic side effects of NTV. Still, the role of rabies virus specific cell mediated immune antigen encounter during viral infections, the naive CD4 T cells may either separate into a type 1 cytokine making Th1 cells or type 2 cytokine producing Th2 cells, interleukin (IL)-17 secreting Th17 cells or follicular helper T (TFH) cells responses are not yet visibly understood and may play an important role in clearing the virus from the CNS. The disease of rabies is 100% fatal at the same time or 100% preventable if managed correctly and timely. Although, Rabies vaccines typically injected intramuscularly but nowadays it is administered by intradermal (ID) route. WHO encourages the use of intradermal administration of modern cell culture rabies vaccines (>2.5IU per intramuscular dose) for PEP that suggest a likewise same quality, safety and efficacy specifications as vaccines for intramuscular (IM) use. Intradermal vaccination decreases the volume (60-80%) of vaccine, is less costly and has probable to lessen vaccine shortages which involves only 1–2 vials of vaccine to complete a full course of PEP. Thus, the certain types of purified Chick Embryo Cell Vaccine (PCECV), Rabipur®/RabAvert®, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics is acceptable and registered for pre and post-exposure prophylaxis, also administered by intradermal or intramuscular route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objectives: Kyasanur forest disease (KFD) is a zoonotic tick-borne disease across the Western Ghats of India. With the discovery of a cluster of human KFD cases in the Wayanad district of Kerala, the present study was focused on detecting KFD virus (KFDV) in tick populations. To manage this disease, it is necessary to understand the diversity of the tick species and factors influencing the distribution, abundance and prevalence of infected ticks in Wayanad district., Methods: Surveys were conducted from November 2016 to May 2018 in four forest ranges of Wayanad district. Ticks were collected by the dragging method and were identified to species level and assayed for virus detection using real-time polymerase chain reaction., Results: A total of 25,169 ticks were collected from 64 sites. Of the identified species, Haemaphysalis spinigera was the most abundant (56.64%), followed by H. turturis 9047 (35.94%), H. bispinosa 999 (3.96%), Amblyomma integrum 691 (2.74%), H. kyasanurensis (0.55%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.08%), Hyalomma marginatum (0.02%), H. cuspidata (0.01%), R.microplus (0.01%) and Dermacentor auratus (0.003%). The nymphal stage was predominant from December to February having peak activity in January. A total of 572 pools were screened for the presence of KFDV, of which 21 pools were positive. The infection rates in H. spinigera and H. turturis tick were 2.62 and 1.04 per cent, respectively., Interpretation & Conclusions: The circulation of KFDV was detected and its correlation with the prevalence in ticks near the fragmented forest and teak plantation areas of Wayanad district. Residents and visitors of these regions may become vulnerable to tick bites and to an increased risk of KFD as the distribution of established, infected tick populations continues to expand.

To understand the spread of SARS-CoV2, in August and September 2020, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (India) conducted a serosurvey across its constituent laboratories and centers across India. Of 10,427 volunteers, 1058 (10.14%) tested positive for SARS-CoV2 anti-nucleocapsid (anti-NC) antibodies, 95% of which had surrogate neutralization activity. Three-fourth of these recalled no symptoms. Repeat serology tests at 3 (n = 607) and 6 (n = 175) months showed stable anti-NC antibodies but declining neutralization activity. Local seropositivity was higher in densely populated cities and was inversely correlated with a 30-day change in regional test positivity rates (TPRs). Regional seropositivity above 10% was associated with declining TPR. Personal factors associated with higher odds of seropositivity were high-exposure work (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, p value: 2.23, 1.92-2.59, <0.0001), use of public transport (1.79, 1.43-2.24, <0.0001), not smoking (1.52, 1.16-1.99, 0.0257), non-vegetarian diet (1.67, 1.41-1.99, <0.0001), and B blood group (1.36, 1.15-1.61, 0.001)., Competing Interests: SN, VS, RU, NB, RK, AB, SP, SP, RK, BR, KT, MA, GC, AL, SK, SM, MM, MS, SK, AS, BT, MV, GV, SV, AA, DG, PH, MP, GS, RV, AP, VA, AM, RS, AR, SA, PK, SV, HS, AK, RJ, AT, DP, AS, JK, VK, AM, IG, GR, PS, RC, GC, PK, RY, SS, DS, SS, PB, SA, VS, SV, DS, SS, SV, ST, FF, AS, AS, BS, MS, YP, VH, VP, DS, NT, PC, SM, DG, JS, SR, BK, KK, SG, PJ, RC, VJ, NK, DG, GT, US, PS, SC, RK, PG, AT, DS, RR, AD, MK, DS, MD, SD, RJ, AP, SM, AK, VW, RY, AK, MB, AC, SK, KK, SP, JK, NS, TP, PM, WR, PB, DO, RS, EB, RS, AN, PV, AP, AV, KC, SD, YM, VA, SD, AA, DD, SS No competing interests declared, (© 2021, Naushin et al.)

Virus, a sub-microscopic infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of a host, causes viral infection. Currently, the immediate imperative is to control the combat against novel coronavirus outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus, which started in China and spread all over the world. The domain of travelling has emphasized COVID-19 virus prevention as a serious issue for the safety of human beings. The exponential rise in the number of corona patients is a matter of concern for governing bodies of various countries in spite of countless cooperative efforts put in by citizens, organizations and government. India is now among the top worst hit nation in terms of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. The present article reviews various state-of-art medicinal approaches available that are presently used to control the spread of coronavirus pandemic., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

The presence of large colonies of aphids is associated with a devastating novel necrotic disease of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) in Ghana that is thought to be of viral etiology. In this study, we used molecular taxonomic tools to identify the aphid species present on these diseased cabbage plants. This was confirmed using two key features for morphological identification, involving the length of cornicles and shape of cauda for the wingless forms of the aphids. Two species of aphids were identified and their distribution in Ghana indicated. One was the generalist aphid Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) but the most abundant was the brassica specialist aphid, Lipaphis erysimi pseudobrassicae (Davis) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), which is one of the most destructive pests of brassica crops in some countries in Africa and other parts of the world. L. erysimi has been reported in Benin, Mali, South Africa, India, China, and United States, but this is the first formal report of L. erysimi pseudobrassicae in Ghana. The correct identification of L. erysimi is crucial, suggesting that it has recently become one of the most common species of aphid found on cabbage plants in Ghana., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Though microbial processes in the oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) of the Arabian Sea (AS) are well documented, prokaryote-virus interactions are less known. The present study was carried out to determine the potential physico-chemical factors influencing viral abundances and their life strategies (lytic and lysogenic) along the vertical gradient in the OMZ of the AS (southwest coast of India). Water samples were collected during the southwest monsoon (SWM) season in two consecutive years (2015 and 2016) from different depths, namely, the surface layer, secondary chlorophyll a maxima (~30⁻40 m), oxycline (~70⁻80 m), and hypoxic/suboxic layers (~200⁻350 m). The high viral abundances observed in oxygenated surface waters (mean ± SD = 6.1 ± 3.4 × 10⁶ viral-like particles (VLPs) mL -1 ), drastically decreased with depth in the oxycline region (1.2 ± 0.5 × 10⁶ VLPs mL -1 ) and hypoxic/suboxic waters (0.3 ± 0.3 × 10⁶ VLPs mL -1 ). Virus to prokaryote ratio fluctuated in the mixed layer (~10) and declined significantly ( p < 0.001) to 1 in the hypoxic layer. Viral production (VP) and frequency of virus infected cells (FIC) were maximum in the surface and minimum in the oxycline layer, whereas the viral lysis was undetectable in the suboxic/hypoxic layer. The detection of a high percentage of lysogeny in suboxic (48%) and oxycline zones (9⁻24%), accompanied by undetectable rates of lytic viral infection support the hypothesis that lysogeny may represent the major survival strategy for viruses in unproductive or harsh nutrient/host conditions in deoxygenated waters.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) etiology was detected in a family cluster (nine cases, including two deaths) in the village of Karyana, Amreli District, and also a fatal case in the village of Undra, Patan District, in Gujarat State, India. Anti-CCHFV IgG antibodies were detected in domestic animals from Karyana and adjoining villages. Hyalomma ticks from households were found to be positive for CCHF viral RNA. This confirms the emergence of CCHFV in new areas and the wide spread of this disease in Gujarat State., (Copyright © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)