Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection, and its acquisition and persistence ... more Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection, and its acquisition and persistence are significantly influenced by the vaginal microbiota. Understanding and comparing the vaginal microbiome of HPV infected women in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is crucial. Methods: The study involved collecting vaginal swabs and extracting DNA using the QIAamp DNA Minikit. The DNA was then subjected to PCR amplification to confirm HPV infection. illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform was utilized to perform sequencing utilizing 2 x 250 paired end chemistry. Taxonomic analysis was performed and Bacterial abundance plots were generated and samples were grouped based on demographic parameters, pap test diagnosis, and genotypes. To assess diversity, samples were rarefied to 49,000 sequence reads per sample, and alpha and beta diversity metrics were calculated. Results: The study analyzed the presence of 21 assigned phyla, with Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Bacteriodetes, and Proteobacteria emerging as the predominant taxa. At the genus level, Lactobacillus and Gardnerella dominated across all samples. Gardnerella was significantly more abundant in HPV-positive (22.40%) compared to HPV-negative samples (10.04%). Symptomatic group of HPV-positive samples had Gardnerella, and unclassified Coriobacteriaceae being dominant. In terms of bacterial diversity, the study found statistically significant association when comprising individuals aged 21 to 30 years to those aged 31 to 40 years. Conclusion: Most research concluded that exposure to HPV can boost bacterial diversity in vagina compared to healthy women, increasing the risk of cervical cancer development. Current study highlights the importance of vaginal microbiome associated with high and low risk HPV, various age group as well as the symptomatic and asymptomatic cases of HPV infected women in South Andaman.
To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infection in pr... more To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infection in pre pandemic and Covid-19 pandemic period with special emphasis on clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical and associated comorbidities, details were collected from the patients presenting to the ophthalmologist in Andaman Islands from August 2017-August 2021. Collected data were statistically computed by using STATA v15.1(Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA). Results: Ocular infections were found in 50.6% of 10,519 kerato-conjunctivitis patients. The highly affected cohort was aged 31 to 40 years (20.10%). No significant gender distribution difference was seen. Among 70% of cases unilaterality was common. The main clinical complaints were erythema (47.5%), lacrimation (41.2%), and pruritus (26.5%). 32.9% had discomfort, and 10% reported decreased eyesight. Additionally, 1,321 of 5,319 patients were using glasses. Additionally, 9.8% (520 people) had hypertension and 9.3% had diabetes. This investigation identified significant clinical and demographic changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: This study contributes to improved prevention, control strategies and enhances diagnostic accuracy by analysing diverse clinical-epidemiological factors of keratoconjunctivitis in Andaman Islands.
Indian Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2024
Purpose: To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infect... more Purpose: To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infection in pre pandemic and Covid-19 pandemic period with special emphasis on clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical and associated comorbidities, details were collected from the patients presenting to the ophthalmologist in Andaman Islands from August 2017- August 2021. Collected data were statistically computed by using STATA v15.1(Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA). Results: Ocular infections were found in 50.6% of 10,519 kerato-conjunctivitis patients. The highly affected cohort was aged 31 to 40 years (20.10%). No significant gender distribution difference was seen. Among 70% of cases unilaterality was common. The main clinical complaints were erythema (47.5%), lacrimation (41.2%), and pruritus (26.5%). 32.9% had discomfort, and 10% reported decreased eyesight. Additionally, 1,321 of 5,319 patients were using glasses. Additionally, 9.8% (520 people) had hypertension and 9.3% had diabetes. This investigation identified significant clinical and demographic changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: This study contributes to improved prevention, control strategies and enhances diagnostic accuracy by analysing diverse clinical-epidemiological factors of keratoconjunctivitis in Andaman Islands.
Microbial biofilms are organized bacterial populations that stick to surfaces and are encased in ... more Microbial biofilms are organized bacterial populations that stick to surfaces and are encased in an extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Biofilms can form on both animate and inanimate surfaces and are acknowledged for their resilience against environmental stresses and antimicrobial agents. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are responsible for establishing the structural and functional integrity of microbial biofilms. The primary constituents of EPS discharged into the environment by microorganisms consist of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and extracellular DNA (eDNA). Mature biofilms have viscoelastic properties as a result of the presence of exopolysaccharides and eDNA. This characteristic makes it difficult to detach the biofilm from the underlying surface, even under intense mechanical pressure or continuous fluid shear stress. Factors including species, substrate type, light intensity, temperature, pH, and nutrition availability might influence the composition of EPS. Several researchers have examined the structure and interrelationships of the EPS matrix derived from bacterial biofilms of A. baumannii, E. faecalis, Entercoccus. spp, P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, and S. aureus. The most common carbohydrates are mannose, galactose, and glucose, with N-acetyl-glucosamine, galacturonic acid, arabinose, fucose, rhamnose, and xylose being present in large quantities. In addition to this, biofilms have several applications across various disciplines of biology. So, this review emphasize on the formation and function of bioflim.
Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mort... more Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mortality in the developing world. The aim of this study is to understand the seasonal pattern and surge of respiratory viruses among the Nicobarese tribe. Methods Respiratory specimens were collected from both ARI and SARI cases attended the BJR district hospital in Car Nicobar Island, India, between 2021 and 2022. Respiratory viruses were identified from the specimens by using the qRT-PCR assay. Meteorological parameters were collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. The significant association between the surge of respiratory viruses and each climatic parameter was evaluated. Results In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 471 ILI cases were enrolled, and 209 of these were positive for respiratory viral infections. Of these respiratory virus infections, 201 (96.2%) were infected with a single respiratory virus infection, and 8 (3.8%) had mixed viral infections. Fever, cough, and chills were the most common symptoms of respiratory illness among this indigenous population. There was a significant link between respiratory viruses and influenza-like illness in children (below 5 years and 6 to 15 years). Conclusion This prevalence study revealed that viral respiratory infections were more common in children than adults. Among these respiratory viruses, respiratory syncytial virus A (RSV) and influenza B virus were predomi nantly reported among tribal children up to age five years. In the year 2021, these viruses were recorded frequently during the winter season. Climate factors such as high humidity, high precipitation, moderate temperature, and mod erate rainfall are found to be correlated with respiratory viral infections. This study implicates important information for preventing a further outbreak of respiratory viral infections in Car Nicobar Island.
Introduction Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivit... more Introduction Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivitis is one of them. Acute infections, if left untreated, can progress to severity, thus causing morbidities and mortalities. It belongs to the mastadenovirus family and is characterized by seven subgenus, i.e., A-G; among those, Adenovirus D8 is the most common type associated with keratoconjunctivitis.
The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high-through... more The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high-throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques is a subject of paramount importance in the field of viral genomics and diagnostics. VTMs play a pivotal role in preserving viral samples, and their composition can profoundly influence the quality and reliability of NGS results. This study explores the intricate relationship between VTM components and NGS outcomes, with a focus on optimizing diagnostic precision and the efficiency of NGS in viral genomics. Through comprehensive investigation, this research sheds light on the critical implications of VTM composition for enhancing viral genomic analysis, streamlining diagnostic processes, and bolstering public health responses. The findings have far-reaching consequences, including the potential for personalized medicine, rapid detection of emerging viral threats, and the improvement of public health surveillance. Standardized protocols and ...
Background Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are pu... more Background Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are public health burdens globally. The percentage of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses among patients having ARI and SARI who visit Car Nicobar's hospital settings is undocumented. Changes in the epidemiology of other respiratory viruses during COVID19 pandemic is being reported worldwide. Methods Inpatient and outpatient settings at BJR hospital, Car Nicobar Island, India, were used to conduct prospective monitoring for ARI and SARI among Nicobarese tribal members. The patients with ARI and SARI were enlisted in BJR hospital from June 2019 to May 2021. At the ICMR-NIV in Pune, duplex RT-PCR assays were used to test the presence of respiratory viruses. The prevalence of non- SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses was measured by comparing here between pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. Results During the COVID19 pandemic, Influenza A (H3N2) and rhinovirus were predominantly reported non-SARS CoV...
Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are p... more Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are public health burdens globally. The percentage of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses among patients having ARI and SARI who visit Car Nicobar's hospital settings is undocumented. Changes in the epidemiology of other respiratory viruses during COVID19 pandemic is being reported worldwide. Methods: Inpatient and outpatient settings at BJR hospital, Car Nicobar Island, India, were used to conduct prospective monitoring for ARI and SARI among Nicobarese tribal members. The patients with ARI and SARI were enlisted in BJR hospital from June 2019 to May 2021. At the ICMR-NIV in Pune, duplex RT-PCR assays were used to test the presence of respiratory viruses. The prevalence of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses was measured by comparing here between pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. Results: During the COVID19 pandemic, Influenza A (H3N2) and rhinovirus were predominantly reported non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses while Human metapneumovirusand influenza A (H1N1)pdm09were most commonly reported in the prepandemic period. This result indicates the altered circulation of non-SARS CoV-2 during pandemic. Conclusions: A considerable proportion of respiratory infection was correlated with respiratory viruses. Prevalence of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses was high at the time of infection when compared with pre-pandemic period, at Car Nicobar Island. This study enlightened the change in circulation of other respiratory viruses among the indigenous Nicobarese tribes. Clinicians and allied medical staff should be more prudent of these respiratory infections.
Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mort... more Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mortality in the developing world. The aim of this study is to understand the seasonal pattern and surge of respiratory viruses among the Nicobarese tribe. Methods Respiratory specimens were collected from both ARI and SARI cases attended the BJR district hospital in Car Nicobar Island, India, between 2021 and 2022. Respiratory viruses were identified from the specimens by using the qRT-PCR assay. Meteorological parameters were collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. The significant association between the surge of respiratory viruses and each climatic parameter was evaluated. Results In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 471 ILI cases were enrolled, and 209 of these were positive for respiratory viral infections. Of these respiratory virus infections, 201 (96.2%) were infected with a single respiratory virus infection, and 8 (3.8%) had mixed viral infections. Fever, cough, and chills were the most common symptoms of respiratory illness among this indigenous population. There was a significant link between respiratory viruses and influenza-like illness in children (below 5 years and 6 to 15 years). Conclusion This prevalence study revealed that viral respiratory infections were more common in children than adults. Among these respiratory viruses, respiratory syncytial virus A (RSV) and influenza B virus were predomi nantly reported among tribal children up to age five years. In the year 2021, these viruses were recorded frequently during the winter season. Climate factors such as high humidity, high precipitation, moderate temperature, and mod erate rainfall are found to be correlated with respiratory viral infections. This study implicates important information for preventing a further outbreak of respiratory viral infections in Car Nicobar Island.
JK Science: Journal of Medical Education & Research, 2024
Background: Various microbes and allergens are responsible to cause keratoconjunctivitis. But the... more Background: Various microbes and allergens are responsible to cause keratoconjunctivitis. But the viral agents are mostly associated with this ocular illness. Adenovirus, Herpes simplex virus (HSV), and enterovirus are the main causative agents. Among those, HSV is of great concern as it can lead to encephalitis.Aim: To determine the prevalence and know the circulating genotype of Herpes Virus among the population of Andaman Island.Methods: Conjunctival swabs from 470 Keratoconjunctivitis suspects were collected (August 2017-January 2022). Diagnosis of HSV-1 and HSV-2 carried out by PCR. Result: Positives were typed with Sanger's Sequencing and sequences analyzed with MEGA software. 20 patients found positive for HSV-1 and typing revealed HSV Strain circulating in Andaman Islands was of AES origin.Conclusion This is first report on Ocular HSV prevalence and strain connected to AES origin in Andaman Islands. To prevent encephalitis epidemics in Andaman population, HSV screening for cases is needed.
The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high
through... more The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques is a subject of paramount importance in the field of viral genomics and diagnostics. VTMs play a pivotal role in preserving viral samples, and their composition can profoundly influence the quality and reliability of NGS results. This study explores the intricate relationship between VTM components and NGS outcomes, with a focus on optimizing diagnostic precision and the efficiency of NGS in viral genomics. Through comprehensive investigation, this research sheds light on the critical implications of VTM composition for enhancing viral genomic analysis, streamlining diagnostic processes, and bolstering public health responses. The findings have far-reaching consequences, including the potential for personalized medicine, rapid detection of emerging viral threats, and the improvement of public health surveillance. Standardized protocols and ongoing technological advancements are essential in harnessing the full potential of NGS for genomics and metagenomics, marking a significant step toward more effective viral disease management and outbreak response.
Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) causes various types of cancer in both
men and women. W... more Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) causes various types of cancer in both
men and women. Womanwith HPVinfection has a risk of developing invasive cervical cancer.
Globally, HPV 16 and 18 were predominant. This study aims to find the distribution of various
HPVtypes in South Andaman. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in
South Andaman, where cervical scrapes were collected after collecting written informed consent.
Detection of HPV genotypes was carried out by using a PCR assay. Further, sequencing analysis
was performed using MEGA11 to identify various genotypes in this territory. Result: Of these
1000 samples, 32 were positive for HR-HPV 16, and four were positive for HR-HPV 18. Fifteen
HPVgenotypes were detected using molecular evolutionary analysis. Six cases were identified
with multiple genotypes. The most prevalent genotype is HPV 16 which belongs to Lineage-A
and sub-lineage A2. HPV 18 identified in South Andaman belonged to the lineage A1 to A5.
Discussion: Various HPV types were identified among women in South Andaman. Global burden
of cervical cancer associated with various HPV sub-lineages. HPV-16 A1 sub-lineage was globally
widespread, whereas sub-lineages A1, A2 and D1 prevailed in South Andaman. Conclusions:
HR-HPVidentified in this study enlightens the importance of HPV vaccination among women
in remote places. These findings will help to strengthen public health awareness programs and
prevention strategies for women in remote areas.
Trachoma is one of the Neglected Tropical Disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, an intracellul... more Trachoma is one of the Neglected Tropical Disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, an intracellular bacteria which develops the follicular conjunctivitis during acute infection. Conjunctival swabs were collected during 2017 2022. Genomic DNA was extracted and qPCR and Conventional PCR for plasmid gene was performed to determine the presence of Chlamydia. During the study period, 470 conjunctival swabs were screened and a total of 7 were found to be positive for Chlamydia trachomatis from which 2 were positive for Plasmid gene. Acute Chlamydia infections mimics the common kerato-conjunctivitis symptoms and molecular epidemiology research makes it possible to identify vulnerable populations.
Introduction
Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctiv... more Introduction Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivitis is one of them. Acute infections, if left untreated, can progress to severity, thus causing morbidities and mortalities. It belongs to the mastadenovirus family and is characterized by seven subgenus, i.e., A-G; among those, Adenovirus D8 is the most common type associated with keratoconjunctivitis. Methodology A hospital-based study was conducted, and the samples were collected from GB Pant Hospital, Port Blair, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Port Blair, from August 2017 to December 2022. Clinical data and demographic details were followed by conjunctival swab sample collection from suspected keratoconjunctivitis patients. Samples were subjected to molecular screening, and Sanger sequencing was carried out for positive samples. Results Out of 506 conjunctival samples, a prevalence of 24.9% (n=126) was observed, and the commonest type circulating among the population of Andaman was Adenovirus D8. The major symptoms associated were eye redness (87.30%, n=110), followed by watering (81.75%, n=103), eye pain (72.22%, n=91), eye itching (61.11%, n=77), and discharge (50%, n=63). Conclusion In clinical research, ocular infections are one of the underrated fields. However, the study revealed the high prevalence of adenoviral infection among the suspected patients. Thus, there is a need for proper surveillance and timely diagnosis of such infections, as their severity may lead to loss of vision.
Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection, and its acquisition and persistence ... more Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection, and its acquisition and persistence are significantly influenced by the vaginal microbiota. Understanding and comparing the vaginal microbiome of HPV infected women in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is crucial. Methods: The study involved collecting vaginal swabs and extracting DNA using the QIAamp DNA Minikit. The DNA was then subjected to PCR amplification to confirm HPV infection. illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform was utilized to perform sequencing utilizing 2 x 250 paired end chemistry. Taxonomic analysis was performed and Bacterial abundance plots were generated and samples were grouped based on demographic parameters, pap test diagnosis, and genotypes. To assess diversity, samples were rarefied to 49,000 sequence reads per sample, and alpha and beta diversity metrics were calculated. Results: The study analyzed the presence of 21 assigned phyla, with Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Bacteriodetes, and Proteobacteria emerging as the predominant taxa. At the genus level, Lactobacillus and Gardnerella dominated across all samples. Gardnerella was significantly more abundant in HPV-positive (22.40%) compared to HPV-negative samples (10.04%). Symptomatic group of HPV-positive samples had Gardnerella, and unclassified Coriobacteriaceae being dominant. In terms of bacterial diversity, the study found statistically significant association when comprising individuals aged 21 to 30 years to those aged 31 to 40 years. Conclusion: Most research concluded that exposure to HPV can boost bacterial diversity in vagina compared to healthy women, increasing the risk of cervical cancer development. Current study highlights the importance of vaginal microbiome associated with high and low risk HPV, various age group as well as the symptomatic and asymptomatic cases of HPV infected women in South Andaman.
To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infection in pr... more To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infection in pre pandemic and Covid-19 pandemic period with special emphasis on clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical and associated comorbidities, details were collected from the patients presenting to the ophthalmologist in Andaman Islands from August 2017-August 2021. Collected data were statistically computed by using STATA v15.1(Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA). Results: Ocular infections were found in 50.6% of 10,519 kerato-conjunctivitis patients. The highly affected cohort was aged 31 to 40 years (20.10%). No significant gender distribution difference was seen. Among 70% of cases unilaterality was common. The main clinical complaints were erythema (47.5%), lacrimation (41.2%), and pruritus (26.5%). 32.9% had discomfort, and 10% reported decreased eyesight. Additionally, 1,321 of 5,319 patients were using glasses. Additionally, 9.8% (520 people) had hypertension and 9.3% had diabetes. This investigation identified significant clinical and demographic changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: This study contributes to improved prevention, control strategies and enhances diagnostic accuracy by analysing diverse clinical-epidemiological factors of keratoconjunctivitis in Andaman Islands.
Indian Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2024
Purpose: To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infect... more Purpose: To know the burden of infectious and non-infectious agents associated with ocular infection in pre pandemic and Covid-19 pandemic period with special emphasis on clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical and associated comorbidities, details were collected from the patients presenting to the ophthalmologist in Andaman Islands from August 2017- August 2021. Collected data were statistically computed by using STATA v15.1(Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA). Results: Ocular infections were found in 50.6% of 10,519 kerato-conjunctivitis patients. The highly affected cohort was aged 31 to 40 years (20.10%). No significant gender distribution difference was seen. Among 70% of cases unilaterality was common. The main clinical complaints were erythema (47.5%), lacrimation (41.2%), and pruritus (26.5%). 32.9% had discomfort, and 10% reported decreased eyesight. Additionally, 1,321 of 5,319 patients were using glasses. Additionally, 9.8% (520 people) had hypertension and 9.3% had diabetes. This investigation identified significant clinical and demographic changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: This study contributes to improved prevention, control strategies and enhances diagnostic accuracy by analysing diverse clinical-epidemiological factors of keratoconjunctivitis in Andaman Islands.
Microbial biofilms are organized bacterial populations that stick to surfaces and are encased in ... more Microbial biofilms are organized bacterial populations that stick to surfaces and are encased in an extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Biofilms can form on both animate and inanimate surfaces and are acknowledged for their resilience against environmental stresses and antimicrobial agents. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are responsible for establishing the structural and functional integrity of microbial biofilms. The primary constituents of EPS discharged into the environment by microorganisms consist of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and extracellular DNA (eDNA). Mature biofilms have viscoelastic properties as a result of the presence of exopolysaccharides and eDNA. This characteristic makes it difficult to detach the biofilm from the underlying surface, even under intense mechanical pressure or continuous fluid shear stress. Factors including species, substrate type, light intensity, temperature, pH, and nutrition availability might influence the composition of EPS. Several researchers have examined the structure and interrelationships of the EPS matrix derived from bacterial biofilms of A. baumannii, E. faecalis, Entercoccus. spp, P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, and S. aureus. The most common carbohydrates are mannose, galactose, and glucose, with N-acetyl-glucosamine, galacturonic acid, arabinose, fucose, rhamnose, and xylose being present in large quantities. In addition to this, biofilms have several applications across various disciplines of biology. So, this review emphasize on the formation and function of bioflim.
Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mort... more Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mortality in the developing world. The aim of this study is to understand the seasonal pattern and surge of respiratory viruses among the Nicobarese tribe. Methods Respiratory specimens were collected from both ARI and SARI cases attended the BJR district hospital in Car Nicobar Island, India, between 2021 and 2022. Respiratory viruses were identified from the specimens by using the qRT-PCR assay. Meteorological parameters were collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. The significant association between the surge of respiratory viruses and each climatic parameter was evaluated. Results In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 471 ILI cases were enrolled, and 209 of these were positive for respiratory viral infections. Of these respiratory virus infections, 201 (96.2%) were infected with a single respiratory virus infection, and 8 (3.8%) had mixed viral infections. Fever, cough, and chills were the most common symptoms of respiratory illness among this indigenous population. There was a significant link between respiratory viruses and influenza-like illness in children (below 5 years and 6 to 15 years). Conclusion This prevalence study revealed that viral respiratory infections were more common in children than adults. Among these respiratory viruses, respiratory syncytial virus A (RSV) and influenza B virus were predomi nantly reported among tribal children up to age five years. In the year 2021, these viruses were recorded frequently during the winter season. Climate factors such as high humidity, high precipitation, moderate temperature, and mod erate rainfall are found to be correlated with respiratory viral infections. This study implicates important information for preventing a further outbreak of respiratory viral infections in Car Nicobar Island.
Introduction Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivit... more Introduction Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivitis is one of them. Acute infections, if left untreated, can progress to severity, thus causing morbidities and mortalities. It belongs to the mastadenovirus family and is characterized by seven subgenus, i.e., A-G; among those, Adenovirus D8 is the most common type associated with keratoconjunctivitis.
The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high-through... more The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high-throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques is a subject of paramount importance in the field of viral genomics and diagnostics. VTMs play a pivotal role in preserving viral samples, and their composition can profoundly influence the quality and reliability of NGS results. This study explores the intricate relationship between VTM components and NGS outcomes, with a focus on optimizing diagnostic precision and the efficiency of NGS in viral genomics. Through comprehensive investigation, this research sheds light on the critical implications of VTM composition for enhancing viral genomic analysis, streamlining diagnostic processes, and bolstering public health responses. The findings have far-reaching consequences, including the potential for personalized medicine, rapid detection of emerging viral threats, and the improvement of public health surveillance. Standardized protocols and ...
Background Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are pu... more Background Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are public health burdens globally. The percentage of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses among patients having ARI and SARI who visit Car Nicobar's hospital settings is undocumented. Changes in the epidemiology of other respiratory viruses during COVID19 pandemic is being reported worldwide. Methods Inpatient and outpatient settings at BJR hospital, Car Nicobar Island, India, were used to conduct prospective monitoring for ARI and SARI among Nicobarese tribal members. The patients with ARI and SARI were enlisted in BJR hospital from June 2019 to May 2021. At the ICMR-NIV in Pune, duplex RT-PCR assays were used to test the presence of respiratory viruses. The prevalence of non- SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses was measured by comparing here between pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. Results During the COVID19 pandemic, Influenza A (H3N2) and rhinovirus were predominantly reported non-SARS CoV...
Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are p... more Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are public health burdens globally. The percentage of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses among patients having ARI and SARI who visit Car Nicobar's hospital settings is undocumented. Changes in the epidemiology of other respiratory viruses during COVID19 pandemic is being reported worldwide. Methods: Inpatient and outpatient settings at BJR hospital, Car Nicobar Island, India, were used to conduct prospective monitoring for ARI and SARI among Nicobarese tribal members. The patients with ARI and SARI were enlisted in BJR hospital from June 2019 to May 2021. At the ICMR-NIV in Pune, duplex RT-PCR assays were used to test the presence of respiratory viruses. The prevalence of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses was measured by comparing here between pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. Results: During the COVID19 pandemic, Influenza A (H3N2) and rhinovirus were predominantly reported non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses while Human metapneumovirusand influenza A (H1N1)pdm09were most commonly reported in the prepandemic period. This result indicates the altered circulation of non-SARS CoV-2 during pandemic. Conclusions: A considerable proportion of respiratory infection was correlated with respiratory viruses. Prevalence of non-SARS CoV-2 respiratory viruses was high at the time of infection when compared with pre-pandemic period, at Car Nicobar Island. This study enlightened the change in circulation of other respiratory viruses among the indigenous Nicobarese tribes. Clinicians and allied medical staff should be more prudent of these respiratory infections.
Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mort... more Background Respiratory viral illnesses among children are a prominent cause of morbidity and mortality in the developing world. The aim of this study is to understand the seasonal pattern and surge of respiratory viruses among the Nicobarese tribe. Methods Respiratory specimens were collected from both ARI and SARI cases attended the BJR district hospital in Car Nicobar Island, India, between 2021 and 2022. Respiratory viruses were identified from the specimens by using the qRT-PCR assay. Meteorological parameters were collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. The significant association between the surge of respiratory viruses and each climatic parameter was evaluated. Results In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 471 ILI cases were enrolled, and 209 of these were positive for respiratory viral infections. Of these respiratory virus infections, 201 (96.2%) were infected with a single respiratory virus infection, and 8 (3.8%) had mixed viral infections. Fever, cough, and chills were the most common symptoms of respiratory illness among this indigenous population. There was a significant link between respiratory viruses and influenza-like illness in children (below 5 years and 6 to 15 years). Conclusion This prevalence study revealed that viral respiratory infections were more common in children than adults. Among these respiratory viruses, respiratory syncytial virus A (RSV) and influenza B virus were predomi nantly reported among tribal children up to age five years. In the year 2021, these viruses were recorded frequently during the winter season. Climate factors such as high humidity, high precipitation, moderate temperature, and mod erate rainfall are found to be correlated with respiratory viral infections. This study implicates important information for preventing a further outbreak of respiratory viral infections in Car Nicobar Island.
JK Science: Journal of Medical Education & Research, 2024
Background: Various microbes and allergens are responsible to cause keratoconjunctivitis. But the... more Background: Various microbes and allergens are responsible to cause keratoconjunctivitis. But the viral agents are mostly associated with this ocular illness. Adenovirus, Herpes simplex virus (HSV), and enterovirus are the main causative agents. Among those, HSV is of great concern as it can lead to encephalitis.Aim: To determine the prevalence and know the circulating genotype of Herpes Virus among the population of Andaman Island.Methods: Conjunctival swabs from 470 Keratoconjunctivitis suspects were collected (August 2017-January 2022). Diagnosis of HSV-1 and HSV-2 carried out by PCR. Result: Positives were typed with Sanger's Sequencing and sequences analyzed with MEGA software. 20 patients found positive for HSV-1 and typing revealed HSV Strain circulating in Andaman Islands was of AES origin.Conclusion This is first report on Ocular HSV prevalence and strain connected to AES origin in Andaman Islands. To prevent encephalitis epidemics in Andaman population, HSV screening for cases is needed.
The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high
through... more The impact of Viral Transport Media (VTM) components on the efficacy and accuracy of high throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques is a subject of paramount importance in the field of viral genomics and diagnostics. VTMs play a pivotal role in preserving viral samples, and their composition can profoundly influence the quality and reliability of NGS results. This study explores the intricate relationship between VTM components and NGS outcomes, with a focus on optimizing diagnostic precision and the efficiency of NGS in viral genomics. Through comprehensive investigation, this research sheds light on the critical implications of VTM composition for enhancing viral genomic analysis, streamlining diagnostic processes, and bolstering public health responses. The findings have far-reaching consequences, including the potential for personalized medicine, rapid detection of emerging viral threats, and the improvement of public health surveillance. Standardized protocols and ongoing technological advancements are essential in harnessing the full potential of NGS for genomics and metagenomics, marking a significant step toward more effective viral disease management and outbreak response.
Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) causes various types of cancer in both
men and women. W... more Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) causes various types of cancer in both
men and women. Womanwith HPVinfection has a risk of developing invasive cervical cancer.
Globally, HPV 16 and 18 were predominant. This study aims to find the distribution of various
HPVtypes in South Andaman. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in
South Andaman, where cervical scrapes were collected after collecting written informed consent.
Detection of HPV genotypes was carried out by using a PCR assay. Further, sequencing analysis
was performed using MEGA11 to identify various genotypes in this territory. Result: Of these
1000 samples, 32 were positive for HR-HPV 16, and four were positive for HR-HPV 18. Fifteen
HPVgenotypes were detected using molecular evolutionary analysis. Six cases were identified
with multiple genotypes. The most prevalent genotype is HPV 16 which belongs to Lineage-A
and sub-lineage A2. HPV 18 identified in South Andaman belonged to the lineage A1 to A5.
Discussion: Various HPV types were identified among women in South Andaman. Global burden
of cervical cancer associated with various HPV sub-lineages. HPV-16 A1 sub-lineage was globally
widespread, whereas sub-lineages A1, A2 and D1 prevailed in South Andaman. Conclusions:
HR-HPVidentified in this study enlightens the importance of HPV vaccination among women
in remote places. These findings will help to strengthen public health awareness programs and
prevention strategies for women in remote areas.
Trachoma is one of the Neglected Tropical Disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, an intracellul... more Trachoma is one of the Neglected Tropical Disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, an intracellular bacteria which develops the follicular conjunctivitis during acute infection. Conjunctival swabs were collected during 2017 2022. Genomic DNA was extracted and qPCR and Conventional PCR for plasmid gene was performed to determine the presence of Chlamydia. During the study period, 470 conjunctival swabs were screened and a total of 7 were found to be positive for Chlamydia trachomatis from which 2 were positive for Plasmid gene. Acute Chlamydia infections mimics the common kerato-conjunctivitis symptoms and molecular epidemiology research makes it possible to identify vulnerable populations.
Introduction
Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctiv... more Introduction Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivitis is one of them. Acute infections, if left untreated, can progress to severity, thus causing morbidities and mortalities. It belongs to the mastadenovirus family and is characterized by seven subgenus, i.e., A-G; among those, Adenovirus D8 is the most common type associated with keratoconjunctivitis. Methodology A hospital-based study was conducted, and the samples were collected from GB Pant Hospital, Port Blair, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Port Blair, from August 2017 to December 2022. Clinical data and demographic details were followed by conjunctival swab sample collection from suspected keratoconjunctivitis patients. Samples were subjected to molecular screening, and Sanger sequencing was carried out for positive samples. Results Out of 506 conjunctival samples, a prevalence of 24.9% (n=126) was observed, and the commonest type circulating among the population of Andaman was Adenovirus D8. The major symptoms associated were eye redness (87.30%, n=110), followed by watering (81.75%, n=103), eye pain (72.22%, n=91), eye itching (61.11%, n=77), and discharge (50%, n=63). Conclusion In clinical research, ocular infections are one of the underrated fields. However, the study revealed the high prevalence of adenoviral infection among the suspected patients. Thus, there is a need for proper surveillance and timely diagnosis of such infections, as their severity may lead to loss of vision.
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Papers by Nisha beniwal
Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical and associated comorbidities, details were collected from the patients presenting to the ophthalmologist in Andaman Islands from August 2017- August 2021. Collected data were statistically computed by using STATA v15.1(Stata Corporation, College Station, TX,
USA).
Results: Ocular infections were found in 50.6% of 10,519 kerato-conjunctivitis patients. The highly affected cohort was aged 31 to 40 years (20.10%). No significant gender distribution difference was seen. Among 70% of cases unilaterality was common. The main clinical complaints were erythema (47.5%), lacrimation (41.2%), and pruritus (26.5%). 32.9% had discomfort, and 10% reported decreased eyesight. Additionally, 1,321 of 5,319 patients were using glasses. Additionally, 9.8% (520 people) had hypertension and 9.3% had diabetes. This investigation identified significant clinical and demographic changes during
the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion: This study contributes to improved prevention, control strategies and enhances diagnostic accuracy by analysing diverse clinical-epidemiological factors of keratoconjunctivitis in Andaman Islands.
in the developing world. The aim of this study is to understand the seasonal pattern and surge of respiratory viruses
among the Nicobarese tribe.
Methods Respiratory specimens were collected from both ARI and SARI cases attended the BJR district hospital
in Car Nicobar Island, India, between 2021 and 2022. Respiratory viruses were identified from the specimens by using
the qRT-PCR assay. Meteorological parameters were collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. The
significant association between the surge of respiratory viruses and each climatic parameter was evaluated.
Results In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 471 ILI cases were enrolled, and 209 of these were positive
for respiratory viral infections. Of these respiratory virus infections, 201 (96.2%) were infected with a single respiratory
virus infection, and 8 (3.8%) had mixed viral infections. Fever, cough, and chills were the most common symptoms
of respiratory illness among this indigenous population. There was a significant link between respiratory viruses
and influenza-like illness in children (below 5 years and 6 to 15 years).
Conclusion This prevalence study revealed that viral respiratory infections were more common in children
than adults. Among these respiratory viruses, respiratory syncytial virus A (RSV) and influenza B virus were predomi
nantly reported among tribal children up to age five years. In the year 2021, these viruses were recorded frequently
during the winter season. Climate factors such as high humidity, high precipitation, moderate temperature, and mod
erate rainfall are found to be correlated with respiratory viral infections. This study implicates important information
for preventing a further outbreak of respiratory viral infections in Car Nicobar Island.
throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques is a subject of paramount importance in
the field of viral genomics and diagnostics. VTMs play a pivotal role in preserving viral samples, and
their composition can profoundly influence the quality and reliability of NGS results. This study
explores the intricate relationship between VTM components and NGS outcomes, with a focus on
optimizing diagnostic precision and the efficiency of NGS in viral genomics. Through
comprehensive investigation, this research sheds light on the critical implications of VTM
composition for enhancing viral genomic analysis, streamlining diagnostic processes, and bolstering
public health responses. The findings have far-reaching consequences, including the potential for
personalized medicine, rapid detection of emerging viral threats, and the improvement of public health surveillance. Standardized protocols and ongoing technological advancements are essential
in harnessing the full potential of NGS for genomics and metagenomics, marking a significant step
toward more effective viral disease management and outbreak response.
men and women. Womanwith HPVinfection has a risk of developing invasive cervical cancer.
Globally, HPV 16 and 18 were predominant. This study aims to find the distribution of various
HPVtypes in South Andaman. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in
South Andaman, where cervical scrapes were collected after collecting written informed consent.
Detection of HPV genotypes was carried out by using a PCR assay. Further, sequencing analysis
was performed using MEGA11 to identify various genotypes in this territory. Result: Of these
1000 samples, 32 were positive for HR-HPV 16, and four were positive for HR-HPV 18. Fifteen
HPVgenotypes were detected using molecular evolutionary analysis. Six cases were identified
with multiple genotypes. The most prevalent genotype is HPV 16 which belongs to Lineage-A
and sub-lineage A2. HPV 18 identified in South Andaman belonged to the lineage A1 to A5.
Discussion: Various HPV types were identified among women in South Andaman. Global burden
of cervical cancer associated with various HPV sub-lineages. HPV-16 A1 sub-lineage was globally
widespread, whereas sub-lineages A1, A2 and D1 prevailed in South Andaman. Conclusions:
HR-HPVidentified in this study enlightens the importance of HPV vaccination among women
in remote places. These findings will help to strengthen public health awareness programs and
prevention strategies for women in remote areas.
develops the follicular conjunctivitis during acute infection. Conjunctival swabs were collected during 2017
2022. Genomic DNA was extracted and qPCR and Conventional PCR for plasmid gene was performed to determine the
presence of Chlamydia. During the study period, 470 conjunctival swabs were screened and a total of 7 were found to be
positive for Chlamydia trachomatis from which 2 were positive for Plasmid gene. Acute Chlamydia infections mimics
the common kerato-conjunctivitis symptoms and molecular epidemiology research makes it possible to identify
vulnerable populations.
Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivitis is one of them.
Acute infections, if left untreated, can progress to severity, thus causing morbidities and mortalities. It
belongs to the mastadenovirus family and is characterized by seven subgenus, i.e., A-G; among those,
Adenovirus D8 is the most common type associated with keratoconjunctivitis.
Methodology
A hospital-based study was conducted, and the samples were collected from GB Pant Hospital, Port Blair, Dr
Agarwals Eye Hospital, Port Blair, from August 2017 to December 2022. Clinical data and demographic
details were followed by conjunctival swab sample collection from suspected keratoconjunctivitis patients.
Samples were subjected to molecular screening, and Sanger sequencing was carried out for positive samples.
Results
Out of 506 conjunctival samples, a prevalence of 24.9% (n=126) was observed, and the commonest type
circulating among the population of Andaman was Adenovirus D8. The major symptoms associated were eye
redness (87.30%, n=110), followed by watering (81.75%, n=103), eye pain (72.22%, n=91), eye itching
(61.11%, n=77), and discharge (50%, n=63).
Conclusion
In clinical research, ocular infections are one of the underrated fields. However, the study revealed the high
prevalence of adenoviral infection among the suspected patients. Thus, there is a need for proper
surveillance and timely diagnosis of such infections, as their severity may lead to loss of vision.
Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical and associated comorbidities, details were collected from the patients presenting to the ophthalmologist in Andaman Islands from August 2017- August 2021. Collected data were statistically computed by using STATA v15.1(Stata Corporation, College Station, TX,
USA).
Results: Ocular infections were found in 50.6% of 10,519 kerato-conjunctivitis patients. The highly affected cohort was aged 31 to 40 years (20.10%). No significant gender distribution difference was seen. Among 70% of cases unilaterality was common. The main clinical complaints were erythema (47.5%), lacrimation (41.2%), and pruritus (26.5%). 32.9% had discomfort, and 10% reported decreased eyesight. Additionally, 1,321 of 5,319 patients were using glasses. Additionally, 9.8% (520 people) had hypertension and 9.3% had diabetes. This investigation identified significant clinical and demographic changes during
the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion: This study contributes to improved prevention, control strategies and enhances diagnostic accuracy by analysing diverse clinical-epidemiological factors of keratoconjunctivitis in Andaman Islands.
in the developing world. The aim of this study is to understand the seasonal pattern and surge of respiratory viruses
among the Nicobarese tribe.
Methods Respiratory specimens were collected from both ARI and SARI cases attended the BJR district hospital
in Car Nicobar Island, India, between 2021 and 2022. Respiratory viruses were identified from the specimens by using
the qRT-PCR assay. Meteorological parameters were collected and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. The
significant association between the surge of respiratory viruses and each climatic parameter was evaluated.
Results In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, 471 ILI cases were enrolled, and 209 of these were positive
for respiratory viral infections. Of these respiratory virus infections, 201 (96.2%) were infected with a single respiratory
virus infection, and 8 (3.8%) had mixed viral infections. Fever, cough, and chills were the most common symptoms
of respiratory illness among this indigenous population. There was a significant link between respiratory viruses
and influenza-like illness in children (below 5 years and 6 to 15 years).
Conclusion This prevalence study revealed that viral respiratory infections were more common in children
than adults. Among these respiratory viruses, respiratory syncytial virus A (RSV) and influenza B virus were predomi
nantly reported among tribal children up to age five years. In the year 2021, these viruses were recorded frequently
during the winter season. Climate factors such as high humidity, high precipitation, moderate temperature, and mod
erate rainfall are found to be correlated with respiratory viral infections. This study implicates important information
for preventing a further outbreak of respiratory viral infections in Car Nicobar Island.
throughput Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques is a subject of paramount importance in
the field of viral genomics and diagnostics. VTMs play a pivotal role in preserving viral samples, and
their composition can profoundly influence the quality and reliability of NGS results. This study
explores the intricate relationship between VTM components and NGS outcomes, with a focus on
optimizing diagnostic precision and the efficiency of NGS in viral genomics. Through
comprehensive investigation, this research sheds light on the critical implications of VTM
composition for enhancing viral genomic analysis, streamlining diagnostic processes, and bolstering
public health responses. The findings have far-reaching consequences, including the potential for
personalized medicine, rapid detection of emerging viral threats, and the improvement of public health surveillance. Standardized protocols and ongoing technological advancements are essential
in harnessing the full potential of NGS for genomics and metagenomics, marking a significant step
toward more effective viral disease management and outbreak response.
men and women. Womanwith HPVinfection has a risk of developing invasive cervical cancer.
Globally, HPV 16 and 18 were predominant. This study aims to find the distribution of various
HPVtypes in South Andaman. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in
South Andaman, where cervical scrapes were collected after collecting written informed consent.
Detection of HPV genotypes was carried out by using a PCR assay. Further, sequencing analysis
was performed using MEGA11 to identify various genotypes in this territory. Result: Of these
1000 samples, 32 were positive for HR-HPV 16, and four were positive for HR-HPV 18. Fifteen
HPVgenotypes were detected using molecular evolutionary analysis. Six cases were identified
with multiple genotypes. The most prevalent genotype is HPV 16 which belongs to Lineage-A
and sub-lineage A2. HPV 18 identified in South Andaman belonged to the lineage A1 to A5.
Discussion: Various HPV types were identified among women in South Andaman. Global burden
of cervical cancer associated with various HPV sub-lineages. HPV-16 A1 sub-lineage was globally
widespread, whereas sub-lineages A1, A2 and D1 prevailed in South Andaman. Conclusions:
HR-HPVidentified in this study enlightens the importance of HPV vaccination among women
in remote places. These findings will help to strengthen public health awareness programs and
prevention strategies for women in remote areas.
develops the follicular conjunctivitis during acute infection. Conjunctival swabs were collected during 2017
2022. Genomic DNA was extracted and qPCR and Conventional PCR for plasmid gene was performed to determine the
presence of Chlamydia. During the study period, 470 conjunctival swabs were screened and a total of 7 were found to be
positive for Chlamydia trachomatis from which 2 were positive for Plasmid gene. Acute Chlamydia infections mimics
the common kerato-conjunctivitis symptoms and molecular epidemiology research makes it possible to identify
vulnerable populations.
Human adenoviruses are common causes of many acute illnesses, and keratoconjunctivitis is one of them.
Acute infections, if left untreated, can progress to severity, thus causing morbidities and mortalities. It
belongs to the mastadenovirus family and is characterized by seven subgenus, i.e., A-G; among those,
Adenovirus D8 is the most common type associated with keratoconjunctivitis.
Methodology
A hospital-based study was conducted, and the samples were collected from GB Pant Hospital, Port Blair, Dr
Agarwals Eye Hospital, Port Blair, from August 2017 to December 2022. Clinical data and demographic
details were followed by conjunctival swab sample collection from suspected keratoconjunctivitis patients.
Samples were subjected to molecular screening, and Sanger sequencing was carried out for positive samples.
Results
Out of 506 conjunctival samples, a prevalence of 24.9% (n=126) was observed, and the commonest type
circulating among the population of Andaman was Adenovirus D8. The major symptoms associated were eye
redness (87.30%, n=110), followed by watering (81.75%, n=103), eye pain (72.22%, n=91), eye itching
(61.11%, n=77), and discharge (50%, n=63).
Conclusion
In clinical research, ocular infections are one of the underrated fields. However, the study revealed the high
prevalence of adenoviral infection among the suspected patients. Thus, there is a need for proper
surveillance and timely diagnosis of such infections, as their severity may lead to loss of vision.