Evolution of RNA viruses from SARS to SARS-CoV-2 and diagnostic techniques for COVID-19: a review.

BACKGROUND: From the start of the twenty-first century up to the year 2021, RNA viruses are the main causative agents of the majority of the disease outbreaks the world has confronted. Recently published reviews on SARS-CoV-2 have mainly focused on its structure, development of the outbreak, relevant precautions, management trials and available therapies. However, in this review, we aim to explore the history, evolution of all coronaviruses and the associated viral outbreaks along with the diagnostics for COVID-19 in the twenty-first century. MAIN BODY: We have focused on different RNA viruses' viz. SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, their classification, and the various disease outbreaks caused by them. In the subsequent section, the comparison of different RNA viruses affecting humans has been made based on the viral genome, structure, time of the outbreak, mode of spread, virulence, causative agents, and transmission. Due to the current mayhem caused by the rapidly emerging virus, special attention is given to SARS-CoV-2, its genome updates, and infectivity. Finally, the current diagnostic techniques such as nucleic acid testing (real time-polymerase chain reaction and loop-mediated isothermal amplification), CRISPR-based diagnostics (CRISPR based DETECTR assay, CRISPR based SHERLOCK test, AIOD-CRISPR, FELUDA, CREST), chest radiographs (computed tomography, X-ray), and serological tests (Lateral flow assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, chemiluminescent immunoassay, neutralization assay, nano-sensors, blood test, viral sequencing) with their pros and cons, and future diagnostic prospective have been described. CONCLUSIONS: The present gloomy scenario mandates clinical manifestations, contact tracing, and laboratory tests as important parameters that need to be taken into consideration to make the final diagnosis.

Genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of migraine.

Migraine is a neurological ailment that is characterized by severe throbbing unilateral headache and associated with nausea, photophobia, phonophobia and vomiting. A full and clear mechanism of the pathogenesis of migraine, though studied extensively, has not been established yet. The current available information indicates an intracranial network activation that culminates in the sensitization of the trigemino-vascular system, release of inflammatory markers, and initiation of meningeal-like inflammatory reaction that is sensed as headache. Genetic factors might play a significant role in deciding an individual's susceptibility to migraine. Twin studies have revealed that a single gene polymorphism can lead to migraine in individuals with a monogenic migraine disorder. In this review, we describe recent advancements in the genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of migraine. We also discuss the potential roles of genetic and abnormal factors, including some of the metabolic triggering factors that result in migraine attacks. This review will help to accumulate current knowledge about migraine and understanding of its pathophysiology, and provides up-to-date prevention strategies.

Cardiac Inotropic Effect of Long-Term Administration of Oral Thymoquinone.

BACK GROUND: Long-term administration of Nigella sativa showed cardiac hypertrophic and positive inotropic effects. Thymoquinone (TQ) is an active ingredient in Nigella sativa. Therefore, we aimed to test the cardiac effects of long-term TQ administration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty adult Wistar rats weighing (150-250 g) were divided into two groups: control and TQ. A TQ-olive oil solution was administered orally to the TQ group (dose 10 mg/kg) for two months. An equivalent volume of olive oil was given to the control group. Langendorff isolated hearts were studied. Peak tension, time to peak tension, half relaxation time, and myocardial flow rate were determined. Heart and left ventricle weights and ratios were recorded. RESULTS: The TQ group exhibited significantly higher peak tension than the control group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in time to peak tension, half relaxation time, and myocardial flow rate. Likewise, there were no signs of cardiac hypertrophy. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term administration of oral TQ induced a positive inotropic effect in the form of an increase in peak tension. TQ administration did not result in cardiac hypertrophy or an increased cardiac metabolic demand at the studied dose. TQ may be a promising inotropic agent.