ABSTRACT
Objective: Ivermectin is an FDA-approved, broad-spectrum anti-parasitic agent. It was originally identified as an inhibitor of interaction between the human 29 immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) integrase protein (IN) and the Importin (IMP) α/β1 30 heterodimers, which are responsible for IN nuclear import. Recent studies demonstrate that ivermectin is worthy of further consideration as a possible SARS-CoV-2 antiviral. Methods: We built the pathogen-host interactome and analyzed it using PHISTO. We compared Ivermectin and plant molecules for their interaction with Importin α3 (IMA3) using molecular docking studies. Results: A phytochemical ATRI001 with the lowest binding energy-7.290 Kcal/mol was found to be superior to Ivermectin with binding energy-4.946 Kcal/mol. Conclusion: ATRI001 may be a potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 agent; however, it requires clinical evaluation.
ABSTRACT
Hepatitis E infection (HEV) in pregnant females, especially in the third trimester is associated with poor foetomaternal outcomes. However, the mechanisms of severe liver injury remain obscure. In a recent HEV outbreak in North India, six pregnant females were detected to be positive for HEV infection with concomitant hepatitis A infection in three pregnant females. None of the pregnant females were positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection. The mortality was 50% in pregnant females. In an outbreak, besides, testing for hepatitis markers and understanding the pathogenesis of HEV infection in pregnancy, improving basic hygienic standards is of utmost importance.
ABSTRACT
Microsporum gypseum, a geophillic dermatophyte is rarely isolated from patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. We report tinea corporis due to Microsporum gypseum, an uncommon aetiological agent, in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome from our region. The clinical presentation resembled psoriasis characterised by atypical, scaly and hyperkeratotic lesions.
ABSTRACT
Nasal polyposis is an inflammatory condition of mucous membrane of the nose and paranasal sinuses with unknown aetiology. Massive nasal polyps can obstruct the nasal cavity causing discomfort and lowered quality of life. Thus, aetiological diagnosis is important for treatment, especially in recurrent nasal polyposis. We present a rare case of pansinusitis with bilateral ethmoidal polyps caused by an unusual phaeoid fungus Fonsecaea pedrosoi in a 65-year-old immunocompetent male from a rural background. The diagnosis was made by endoscopic nasal examination; high resolution computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses, detection of fungal hyphae in 10% potassium hydroxide wet mount and culture.
ABSTRACT
Hepatitis B virus along with hepatitis C virus infection form a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In order to know the present status in Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla, a total of 400 samples were screened from Feb'98 to Jan'99. Two hundred samples from HCWs and the same number of samples from the apparently healthy population which served as the control group were collected. They were screened for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies by the third generation ELISA. HBsAg was positive in 5% of HCWs while amongst the control group seropositivity was 3.5%. Amongst the HCWs, the laboratory technicians showed highest seropositivity which was 40%. Anti-HCV antibody was not detected in any of the HCWs screened. HCWs form a major risk group for contracting HBV infection. It is therefore of utmost importance to take strict universal precautions and also the need for implementation of immunisation against HBV among HCWs.