Lyme Borreliosis, a public health concern in India: Findings of Borrelia burgdorferi serosurvey from two states.

Background: Lyme borreliosis is a public health concern in India. The prevalence of the disease is still undetermined with major entomological and epidemiological gaps. The present study was conducted to determine the seropositivity of Borrelia burgdorferi in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, India. Methods: A cross-sectional serosurvey was conducted in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Data collection tools were developed and standardized for the collection of clinico-socio-demographic data. Sample size for each site was calculated using the formula for the estimation of a single proportion. Qualitative detection of IgG antibodies in serum samples was done using NovaLisa™ Lyme Borrelia IgG ELISA kit. Results: A total of 793 participants were enrolled, 484 (61%) from Arunachal Pradesh and 309 (39%) from Sikkim. Out of 793 participants, 21 (2.7%), 22 (2.8%), 6 (0.8%), 29 (3.7%), 44 (5.5%), and 16 (2.1%) gave history of tick bite, rash, erythema migrans, migratory muscle pain, migratory joint pain, and numbness, respectively, in the past one year. The adjusted seroprevalence (for sensitivity and specificity of kit) for the study is 3.7 (2.4-5.2). No signs or symptoms were found to be associated with IgG ELISA positivity. The state-wise distribution of seropositivity for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim was 4.1 (95% CI: 2.5-6.3) and 2.3 (95% CI: 0.9-4.6), respectively. Conclusion: This study establishes the state of Sikkim as a new endemic area in India of Lyme disease besides its already reported endemicity in Arunachal Pradesh. No association was conclusively established between symptoms of Lyme and IgG seropositivity emphasizing the need for detailed history taking and clinical suspicion in endemic areas.

Amaranth Genomic Resource Database: an integrated database resource of Amaranth genes and genomics.

Amaranth (Amaranthus L.) is native to Mexico and North America, where it was cultivated thousands of years ago, but now amaranth is grown worldwide. Amaranth is one of the most promising food crops with high nutritional value and belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. The high-quality genome assembly of cultivated amaranth species (A. hypochondriacus, A. cruentus) and wild/weedy species (A. tuberculatus, A. hybridus, and A. palmeri) has already been reported; therefore, we developed an Amaranth Genomic Resource Database (AGRDB) to provide access to all the genomic information such as genes, SSRs, SNPs, TFs, miRNAs, and transporters in one place. The AGRDB database contains functionally annotated gene information with their sequence details, genic as well as genomic SSRs with their three sets of primers, transcription factors classified into different families with their sequence information and annotation details, putative miRNAs with their family, sequences, and targeted gene details, transporter genes with their superfamily, trans-membrane domain details, and details of genic as well as nongenic SNPs with 3' and 5' flanking sequence information of five amaranth species. A database search can be performed using the gene ID, sequence ID, sequence motif, motif repeat, family name, annotation keyword, scaffold or chromosome numbers, etc. This resource also includes some useful tools, including JBrowse for the visualization of genes, SSRs, SNPs, and TFs on the respective amaranth genomes and BLAST search to perform a BLAST search of the user's query sequence against the amaranth genome as well as protein sequences. The AGRDB database will serve as a potential platform for genetic improvement and characterization of this futuristic crop. The AGRDB database will be accessible via the link: http://www.nbpgr.ernet.in:8080/AmaranthGRD/.

Findings of second multicentric follow-up serosurvey among Health Care Workers in government hospitals.

Background: The change in serological status of community may be used as input for guiding the public health policy. Hence, the present study was conducted to determine change in seroprevalence of COVID-19 among healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods: From the baseline multicentric study sample, a subsample was followed up, and a seroepidemiological study was conducted among them between 6 and 22 weeks after the second dose of the vaccination. Multistage population proportion to size sampling was performed for the selection of subsample of HCWs. The serosurvey was conducted using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based IgG antibody test (COVID KAVACH). Results: Follow-up serological testing was done in subsample of 1122 participants of original 3253 participants. The mean age of the participants was 34.6 (8.13) years. A total of 300 (26.7%) participants were females. The seroprevalence was 78.52, (95%CI:76-80.1). Among those who were seronegative at initial test, 708 (77.04%) were seroconverted. Those who were not seroconverted (241 (21.5%)) have longer duration from the second dose of the vaccination (93 (31.4) vs. 56 (38.4); p value < 0.001). The COVID-19 infection was significantly associated with seropositive status and being a medical staff was associated with remaining seronegative on follow-up. The higher age (≥50 years) was found to be significantly associated with seroreversion. Conclusion: Four in five HCWs had detectable antibodies. Seroepidemiological studies carry vital information to control the public health response in the course of the pandemic. The study can also further help as a platform to study the seroconversion and effect of vaccination among HCWs for newer variants of SARS-CoV-2.

Epidemiological analysis of SARS-COV-2 B.1.617.2 (delta variant) transmission in an educational institute.

Background: Despite having an effective COVID-19 vaccine, the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over and the delta variant continues to cause havoc across several continents. The present study was conducted to analyze and describe the occurrence of COVID-19 cases among completely vaccinated individuals. Methods: In an educational institute in Western Maharashtra, we analyzed a cluster of RTPCR positive COVID-19 cases among fully vaccinated students which occurred in 12 days. The cases were linked to a series of curricular and co-curricular events in the institute. A detailed epidemiological investigation and genome sequencing of cases were conducted. IgG antibodies against S1 protein of novel SARS-CoV-2 were estimated for cases and age, sex, and vaccination status matched controls. Results: All 37 identified cases were mild COVID. 188 high risk (HR) contacts of the cases were identified. The overall secondary attack was 9.5%. Out of 31 cases and 50 controls, 09 (29%) cases and 08 (16%) controls were found to have IgG antibodies against S1 protein of novel SARS-CoV-2 titer of more than 60 U/ml. Whole-genome sequencing of 15 samples of the cluster showed the presence of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. No correlation was observed between Ct value and IgG S1 antibody titers. Conclusion: The study provides significant evidence that only vaccination alone does not completely protect against SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant infection. An all-encompassing multicomponent strategy involving implementation of NPIs, robust contact tracing, early identification and isolation of cases, and high vaccination coverage is the way forward for the prevention of COVID-19.

Effectiveness of ChAdOx1 nCOV-19 Vaccine: Experience of a tertiary care institute.

BACKGROUND: The first dose of the ChAdOx1 nCoV- 19 Corona Virus Vaccine (Covishield) was administered to the eligible beneficiaries of tertiary care institute of Western Maharashtra on 16 Jan 21 and in the past three months almost 97% of the staff has been vaccinated. The present study analyses the incidence of COVID cases in the unvaccinated and vaccinated population of the institute. METHODS: All Covid 19 infections (RT-PCR positive) from 01 February 21 to 25 April 21 were included in the study and analyzed as per their vaccination status. To assess the COVID 19 transmission in contacts, Secondary Attack Rates (SAR) of the pre-vaccination period (Jun-Oct 20) was compared with the present SAR. RESULTS: A total of 113 cases occurred in the study period (01 Feb to 25 Apr 21). Lower number of infections were observed among the fully vaccinated as compared to partially vaccinated and non-vaccinated. The overall vaccine effectiveness was found to be 88.6% (81.55-92.37) and 44.1% (4.55-67.3) in completely and partially vaccinated individuals respectively. Hazard Ratios for getting infected dropped significantly after 28 days of the second dose. The SAR in high risk contacts (HRCs) was found to be 4.25%, which was lower than SAR (20.6%) of pre-vaccination period. CONCLUSION: This is one of the earliest studies in India to report the impact of COVID-19 vaccination. The results indicate that the vaccine provides effective protection against COVID-19 infection. However, given the complex dynamics of vaccination, the role of NPIs and implementation of COVID appropriate behavior cannot be undermined.

An analysis of mortality and survival of COVID 19 patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Maharashtra, India.

BACKGROUND: After nine months of responding to the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, the scientific fraternity is yet to unravel the mystery of those who are at most risk from mortality. Despite resistance to wear masks, the global public health response has beaten the grimmer projections of millions of deaths. The present study seeks to analyze the survival of COVID-19 patients at a tertiary care hospital and identify the risk factors of mortality. METHODS: Medical records of 1233 RT PCR confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital between 01 April and 30 September 2020 were retrospectively analyzed for calculating overall survival and to investigate the independent predictors of survival of COVID-19 patients. RESULTS: There were 72 (5.8%) deaths; which occurred in 24.9% of the elderly (age > 60yrs) people (P < 0.001), 76.0% in people with multiple comorbidities (having more than one comorbidity) (P < 0.001), 75.6% in people with diabetes (P < 0.001), and 75.5% in people with hypertension (P < 0.001). A significantly higher risk of mortality was observed in elderly patients, patients with comorbidities, and patients requiring oxygen while admitted in the hospital. CONCLUSION: Survival reflects the cure rates and is used by health professionals and policymakers to plan and implement disease control measures. The insights provided by the study would help facilitate the identification of patients at risk and timely provision of specialized care for the prevention of adverse outcomes in the hospital setting.

Estimating the proportion and IgG antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 in individuals joining a central educational institute from different parts of India by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based serology.

BACKGROUND: Antibody response to SARS-CoV may be estimated to give trends and patterns emerging in a population during an evolving epidemic. The novel coronavirus has opened a new chapter in the history of pandemics and understanding the disease epidemiology. METHODS: The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Institutional Ethical clearance and informed consent were taken for participation in the study. The study population included all personnel reporting to the institute for training courses, permanent posting or joining back from leave during the study period of 2 months (16 June to 16 August 2020). The sample size was calculated assuming the prevalence of COVID-19 to be 1% with the absolute precision of 0.5% and 5% level of significance, and finite correction for population size of 500, and the calculated sample size was 377. Inclusion criteria were all personnel reporting to the institute from different states and districts. Exclusion criteria-Any personnel reported for a short visit of lesser than 14 days. Demographic details and details of any likely exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 case were noted. A blood sample was collected, and serological tests were done using ErbaLisa COVID-19 IgG kit by Calbiotech, as per the manufacturer's instructions. RESULTS: Overall seropositivity of IgG COVID-19 antibodies was 7.5% (31/413) (95% CI: 5.3-10.4%). Study population (n = 413) comprised of an adult population in the age range of 21 years-53 years, and the mean age was 31.4 years (SD = 6.2 years). CONCLUSION: As the personnel joining the institute have come from various parts of the country the study provides an estimation of antibodies against COVID-19.

Seroconversion among COVID-19 patients admitted in a dedicated COVID hospital: A longitudinal prospective study of 1000 patients.

BACKGROUND: The immune response after SARS-CoV-2 is complex and may be affected by severity of the disease, race, etc. The present study was conducted to assess the serial antibody response among the COVID-19 patients admitted in the hospital. METHODS: The study was conducted between July and October 2020 in a dedicated COVID-19 hospital. All consented patients underwent serial testing of antibodies using a rapid chromatographic immunoassay-based qualitative IgG/IgM kit every third day until their discharge or death. The data about age, sex, severity of disease, length of stay, onset of symptoms, date of molecular testing were also collected. Appropriate statistical tests were used. RESULTS: The mean age of 1000 COVID-19 patients was 47.5 ± 17.9 years. Out of the total, 687 (68.7%) were males. With respect to severity, 682 (68.2%) were asymptomatic/mild, 200 (20%) were moderate and 118 (11.8%) were severe cases. The seroconversion percentage increased from 12.8% to 97.9% and 16.3% to 80.9% for IgG and IgM respectively in 21 days. The median time for seroconversion was 10 days (IQR:6-12 days) for IgG and eight days (IQR: 6-11 days) for IgM. At the time of discharge (median nine days), detectable IgG and IgM antibodies were present in 502 (52.46%) and 414 (43.26%) participants respectively. Seroconversion was associated with days after the symptoms, increasing severity of the disease and the presence of co-morbidity. CONCLUSION: Seroconversion increased during the period of observation. The severe/moderate cases of COVID-19 tend to have an early seroconversion as compared to the asymptomatic/mild cases. Only half of the patients were seroconverted at discharge.

Prediction based on estimated breeding values using genealogy for tuber yield and late blight resistance in auto-tetraploid potato (Solanum tuberosum L.).

Estimated breeding values using best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) through pedigree relationship can enhance selection efficiency and save time as well as resources in autotetraploid potato breeding program. Here, we used historical preliminary yield evaluation trials data of 469-619 breeding lines for tuber yield and late blight resistance to estimate heritability and BLUP based breeding values modelling auto-tetraploid inheritance in mixed model analysis. The pedigree file had a depth of 3-4 generations with total 370 individuals including 111 founders. Heritability estimates varied from 0.15 for marketable tuber yield to 0.47 for late blight resistance computed using A matrix. The prediction accuracy for total tuber yield, marketable tuber yield and late blight resistance (AUDPC) was 0.53 ± 0.02, 0.44 ± 0.02 and 0.81 ± 0.01, respectively. The prediction accuracy was highest for late blight resistance and moderate for total and marketable tuber yield. The prediction bias measured as regression of observed phenotype values on predicted values for late blight resistance was almost nil in comparison to total and marketable tuber yield. Moderate to high prediction accuracies for tuber yields and late blight resistance suggest the selection of genotypes based on EBVs in Indian potato breeding programme for higher genetic gain.

Bio-eco-social determinants of Aedes breeding in field practice area of a medical college in Pune, Maharashtra.

BACKGROUND: Major determinant of dengue incidence is interaction between ecology, vector bionomics, and social factors. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study is to find out bio-eco-social determinants of Aedes breeding. METHODS: Background, household, entomological, and knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) surveys were undertaken post- and premonsoon showers from May to June 2016 in urban and rural practice area of medical college. RESULTS: A total of 181 and 204 households, 131 and 137 individuals, and 1250 and 1268 water-holding containers were included in household survey, KAP survey, and larval survey in urban slum and rural area, respectively. In both locations, maximum water-holding containers were indoors (41.4% and 61.8%, respectively); however, maximum positivity was peridomestic (63.6% and 83.1%, respectively). Pupae per container were 0.9 and 1.9 in respective locations and pupae per person were 1.2 and 2.3, respectively. Container positivity was seen in containers with rain as water source (8.8%) as well as among those who were never used (10.7%). Irregular water supply was significantly more in rural area (P < 0.05). KAP survey revealed that majority (90.1% and 71.5%, respectively) had heard about dengue, with significantly higher knowledge in urban slum, and television was the main source of information. Majority (89% and 83%, respectively) were unaware that peak biting time of Aedes is daytime. Use of mosquito repellent coils was the predominant preventive practice (46.6% and 61.2%, respectively). Pupae were reared; all were found to be Aedes aegypti. CONCLUSIONS: Despite enhanced awareness campaigns, an integrated vector management approach is required for prevention of dengue.

Revelations of an overt water contamination.

BACKGROUND: Contaminated water sources are major cause of water borne diseases of public health importance. Usually, contamination is suspected after an increase in patient load. METHODS: Two health teams investigated the episode. First team conducted sanitary survey, and second team undertook water safety and morbidity survey. On-site testing was carried out from source till consumer end. Investigation was also undertaken to identify factors which masked the situation. Prevention and control measures included super chlorination, provision of alternate drinking water sources, awareness campaign, layout of new water pipeline bypassing place of contamination, repair of sewers, flushing and cleaning of water pipelines, and repeated water sampling and testing. RESULTS: Multiple sources of drinking water supply were detected. Water samples from consumer end showed 18 coliforms per 100 ml. Sewer cross connection with active leakage in water pipeline was found and this was confirmed by earth excavation. Water safety and morbidity survey found majority of households receiving contaminated water supply. This survey found no significant difference among households receiving contaminated water supply and those receiving clean water. Average proportion of household members with episode of loose motions, pain abdomen, vomiting, fever, and eye conditions was significantly more among households receiving contaminated water. CONCLUSION: The present study documents detailed methodology of investigation and control measures to be instituted on receipt of contaminated water samples. Effective surveillance mechanisms for drinking water supplies such as routine testing of water samples can identify water contamination at an early stage and prevent an impending outbreak.

Variation in biochemical parameters in different parts of potato tubers for processing purposes.

The present study was conducted to estimate the variation in bio-chemical parameters among eight different parts viz. bud end cortex, bud end medulla, central cortex, central medulla, pith, stem end cortex, stem end medulla and peel of potato tuber of processing varieties. Concentration of dry matter, reducing sugar, sucrose and starch content were higher in cortical region than in medullar region of stem end, bud end and central portion. Variety Kufri Chipsona-1 had maximum dry matter content in stem end cortex (SEC 30.34 %), followed by Kufri Frysona (SEC 27.71 %). Mean reducing sugar values were comparatively more in bud end cortex (BEC 111.3 mg/100 g Fresh Weight) and lowest in stem end medulla (SEM 44.05 mg/100 g FW). Bio-chemical contents varied considerably within different parts of tuber as well as in different genotypes. The information generated in this study can help processors for effective utilization of potato for various types of processing products viz., chips and French fries.

Role of invertase activity in processing quality of potatoes: Effect of storage temperature and duration.

Invertase activity and processing attributes of three potato cultivars were studied to find the reason for deterioration of processing quality during their prolonged storage in commercial cold stores (4°C) as compared to elevated temperature storage (12 ± 0.5°C), with CIPC {Isopropyl-N-(3-Cholorophenyl) carbamate}. Lower storage temperature (4°C) tended to be more effective in increasing invertase activity of potato tubers than elevated temperature. Non-processing cultivar viz., Kufri Pukhraj resulted in accumulation of more invertase activity than relatively two processing cultivars. Kufri Chipsona-1 and Kufri Chipsona-3 at 12 ± 0.5°C possessed basal invertase activity ranging from 39.3 to 79.8 and 54.1 to 93.8 (pmoles hexose h⁻¹ g⁻¹ f.wt.) respectively, during two years. Total invertase activity at 4°C increased abruptly and remained high from 30 to 60 days of storage. The activity progressively reached 90.6 to 106.6 and 81.4 to 101.3 during both the years respectively, after 60 days of storage to that observed initially. Reducing sugar content increased from 23.3 to 105.7 and 389.0 to 1138.2 (mg 100g⁻¹ f.wt.) after 90 days of storage at 12 ± 0.5°C and 4°C, respectively. Studies concluded that basal and total invertase, were responsible for cold-induced sweetening and resulted in deterioration of processing quality of potatoes during storage at 4°C. Since this activity is low at 12 ± 0.5°C, the processing traits remained acceptable to industry and consumers.

Screening of novel microorganisms for biosurfactant and biocontrol activity against Phytophthora infestans.

In the present study, 95 isolates of bacteria were tested for their biosurfactant as well as biocontrol activity against Phytophthora infestans. The results revealed that only 15.8% isolates showed biosurfactant activity. The emulsification index ranged from 0-68% and 24.2% isolates showed positive reaction for biosurfactant properties. In emulsification assay and oil spreading test, 18.95% and 5.26% isolates, respectively scored positive for biosurfactant production. Among all, only five isolates were found effective against P. infestans, for biocontrol properties. Pseudomonas aeruginosa-1 showed 62.22% inhibition zone after 72 hrs while P. aeruginosa-3 showed 46.42%. Forty-eight hrs old culture supernatants were highly effective in food-poisoning test, tuber slice test and detached leaf method against P. infestans. In whole potato plant test, bacterial cell based formulation, culture supernatant and bacterial cell suspension of P. aeruginosa-1 showed 10.42%, 9.94% and 17.96% diseases severity respectively, as against 53.96% in control. This isolate holds promise as biological control agent against P. infestans in field.

Echocardiographic assessment of left atrial volume index in elderly patients with anterior wall myocardial infarction.

Enlarged left atrium (LA) predicts outcomes in patients with heart failure, atrial fibrillation and stroke. Left atrial volume (LAV) especially when corrected for body size (LAVi), is a more accurate representation of true LA size. Therefore we studied left atrial volume index (LAVi) in elderly patients with left ventricle anterior infarction and correlated LAVi with left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) and transmitral Doppler flow. We found LAVi was significantly raised in elderly patients who suffered from AMI (26.7 + 2.1 vs 10.8 + 2.9) (p < 0.005). There was significant negative correlation of LAVi with LVEF, E wave peak velocity and decceleration time.

Echocardiographic assessment of left atrial volume index in elderly patients with left ventricle anterior myocardial infarction.

INTRODUCTION: Enlarged left atrium predicts outcomes in patients with heart failure, atrial fibrillation and stroke. Left atrial volume especially when corrected for body size, is a more accurate representation of true LA size. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To study left atrial volume index in elderly patients with left ventricle anterior infarction and correlate LAVi with left ventricle ejection fraction and transmitral Doppler flow. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Control group consisted of 25 healthy elderly subjects Study group consisted of age and sex matched patients with LV anterior infarction with history of characteristic ischaemic chest pain. Patients with valve lesions, large shunts and rythum disturbances were excluded. On transthoracic echocardiography biplane method of disks was used to calculate LA volume. LAVi was calculated by dividing LA volume by body surface area of subjects. OBSERVATION AND RESULTS: LAVi was significantly raised in elderly patients who suffered from AMI (P<0.005). We also found significant negative correlation of LAVi with LVEF, E wave peak velocity and deacceleration time. CONCLUSION: Patients with advanced left venticular systolic and diastolic dysfunction had a significantly larger LAVi than healthy subjects. LAVi is useful for risk stratification and for guiding therapy in such patients.