Bibekananda Bhoi

The process of viral genome replication consists of multiple stages, which require both viral enzymes and host cell machinery to function correctly. The replication process depends on three factors, which include the type of genome, its polarity, and the location of the replication process. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) viruses use their RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, which enable them to create complementary RNA strands through two methods: de novo initiation and primer-dependent mechanisms. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) viruses use either their own DNA polymerases or host DNA polymerases, together with helicases and primases and single-stranded DNA-binding proteins, to achieve accurate DNA replication. The assembly of replication–transcription complexes (RTCs) requires precise viral non-structural protein-host cofactor interactions, which enable virus genome replication while avoiding detection by innate immune sensors, RIG-I and MDA5. Researchers have discovered essential host dependency factors and restriction elements through the use of ribosome profiling and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-based functional genomic screens. Researchers can now use high-content imaging and microfluidics technology to observe replication complexes at specific times and locations throughout the cell. The integrated technologies enable researchers to study virus and host interactions at a systems level, which lead to the discovery of new antiviral targets and the creation of targeted treatments for multiple viral diseases.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to public health, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where surveillance infrastructure is underdeveloped. Bihar, India’s third most populous state and one of its least-resourced states, has remained largely absent from national AMR monitoring initiatives. Methods: This study aimed to characterize the AMR infection landscape across five public tertiary care hospitals in Bihar over three years (2022–2024) and to assess the feasibility of integrating digital workflows for real-time microbiological reporting. Standardized antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed on >48,000 urine, pus, and blood samples using CLSI guidelines. Facility-level data were digitized into an open-source AMR reporting system, enabling automated antibiogram generation. Results: The findings revealed substantial resistance: high resistance to beta-lactams, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones across pathogens. For instance, E. coli sensitivity to nitrofurantoin varied from 86.5% at NMCH (Patna) to 44.7% at JLNMCH (Bhagalpur), while cephalosporin sensitivity in Klebsiella spp. dropped below 2% in several hospitals. MRSA prevalence exceeded 65% in two facilities, far above the national average of 47.8%. Digital integration led to a four-fold increase in culture testing in all facilities and improved data completeness and turnaround times. Spatial analysis and microbiology laboratory assessment revealed significant geographic disparities in diagnostic access, with facilities in remote districts facing delays of over four hours for basic testing. Conclusions: Our study is the first study from India to create such a broad, facility-associated AMR picture over time at a state level. Policy implications include the need for a state-level AMR surveillance dashboard, alignment of procurement with facility-specific resistance patterns, and routine stewardship audits. Clinically, this study demonstrates the utility of localized antibiograms for guiding empirical therapy in resource-limited settings. This study provides a scalable framework for embedding AMR surveillance into routine health system workflows in LMICs.

The increasing demand for meat, particularly poultry, to meet the needs of a growing global population raises concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the food production system. This chapter explores the global scenario of antibiotics use, especially in poultry production, and its contribution to the emergence of AMR. The evolution and transmission of AMR, along with the role of important pathogens like Salmonella, Campylobacter, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in poultry production, are discussed. The implications of AMR on human health, food safety, and environmental contamination are highlighted. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of responsible antibiotic use and exploring alternative antimicrobial strategies to address the challenges of AMR in the poultry industry. Request access from your librarian to read this chapter's full text.

The pandemic-starting SARS-CoV-2 novel coronavirus was found in Wuhan, China. WHO declared this pandemic, which began in late 2019, in March 2020. Experts say this was the first SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. It was the first of many. This virus constantly mutates in response to its replication environment, causing waves, the deadliest of which was the delta variant-caused second wave, which killed millions worldwide. This review examines viral genome alterations and their global effects. We used references from previous research articles on this or similar issues to make our review more data-driven. We found that the virus' mutation has caused major health problems in humans, including deaths. The viruses changed genome, proteins, local food, sanitation, immunity, and milieu may be involved. We also found that while some of the impacted variations are milder and less contagious, some have had record-breaking peaks and significant death rates in a short time. This analysis examines COVID-19's impact on diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, aging, and community hygiene. SARS-CoV-2 increases stress and blood glucose in diabetics. Clinical investigations have linked COVID-19 to cardiovascular disease, although the mechanism is uncertain. Asthmatics are more vulnerable to respiratory infections. Its effects change as one age. Cleanliness campaigns are needed to put an end to the epidemic.