Incidence Of Disease Research Articles

Assessing the Effects of Chitosan on Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Growth and Productivity

Background: Groundnut, also known as peanut is a vital crop worldwide, valued for its oil and protein-rich seeds. However, globally the production of groundnut is constrained by a number of biotic and abiotic factors, which significantly reduce yield. Among these, seed borne pathogen plays a major role.In order to manage plant disease and increase the yield, chitosan was used in this study since it is a natural polymer derived from chitin found in crustacean shells. Methods: Groundnut seeds were treated with chitosan 1.5 and 2.0% along with bio-control agents and carbendazim.Treated seeds were sown in field and observations viz., disease incidence (%), field emergence (%), plant height, flowering characters, yield attributing pod and seed characters were recorded. Result: The results revealed that no disease incidence was recorded in chitosan treated seeds. Seeds treated with chitosan 2% increased the field emergence and plant height up to 13 and 17 per cent over control, respectively. Chitosan 2% treated seeds-initiated flowers 4 days earlier than the control seeds and also quickly attained the 50% flowering. Apart from this, seeds treated with chitosan 2% increased the pod yield and seed yield ha-1 up to 27 and 29 per cent, respectively. In between the biocontrol agents, Bacillus subtilis showed an increased yield and yield attributing parameters.

Population of Bemisia tabaci and Incidence of Yellow Disease in Chili Intercropped with Corn

Bemisia tabaci is one of the limiting factors in chili farming, because it can cause damage both directly and indirectly as a vector for the Pepper yellow leaf curl virus (PepYLCV). Intercropping chili with corn is one of the efforts to control B. tabaci. Physically, corn plants are able to withstand the presence of B. tabaci, in addition to producing volatile compounds that are repellent to B. tabaci. This research was conducted to determine the optimal age of corn plants to be intercropped with chili plants. The research was conducted in Pleret District, Bantul Regency by testing five different ages of corn: 2 weeks after planting, 6 weeks after planting, 8 weeks after planting, 10 weeks after planting and control (without intercropping with corn). Weeks after planting are counted from the first day the corn seeds were planted. Yellow sticky trap (YST) was used to determine the presence of B. tabaci population in each treatment plot. YST was tied to bamboo sticks and placed on treatment beds with as many as 2 (two) traps per treatment plot. The distance between the yellow sticky trap and the plant was 30 cm, so the height of the trap was always adjusted according to the height of the plant. Observation of B. tabaci population was carried out every 5 days by counting the number of B. tabaci caught in yellow sticky traps. The results showed that the population of B. tabaci in the chili plots intercropped with corn was lower than that in the control plot, especially at the age of 6 weeks after planting (WAP). However, the intercropping of chilies and corn had no significant effect on the incidence of yellow disease in chilies.

Counteracting Grey Mould (Botrytis cinerea) in Grapevine ‘Glera’ Using Three Putative Biological Control Agent Strains (Paraburkholderia sp., Pseudomonas sp., and Acinetobacter sp.): Impact on Symptoms, Yield, and Gene Expression

This study examined the potential use of three bacterial strains—Paraburkholderia sp. strain CRV74, Pseudomonas sp. strain CRV21, and Acinetobacter sp. strain CRV19—as biocontrol agents of Botrytis cinerea in grapevine. These strains were selected for their ability to inhibit B. cinerea growth in vitro and used in field conditions for the control of grey mould symptoms in ‘Glera’ grapes. To this end, after inoculating these microorganisms onto plants sprayed with B. cinerea spores, the final yield, the physicochemical characteristics of the must, disease incidence, and the possible influence on the expression of plant-defence proteins were evaluated. Strain CRV21 resulted as being the most effective in combating grey mould (−20% of disease incidence). Although yield was not affected, significantly different values of total soluble solids content was observed. Additionally, a significant up-regulation of the genes PR-1, PR-5, β-1,3-glucanase, and class III chitinase was observed. These findings highlight the potential application of strains with anti-botrytis activity as sustainable alternatives to chemical defence for the control of this pathogen.

Variable response of eastern filbert blight resistance sources in New Jersey.

Eastern filbert blight (EFB), caused by Anisogramma anomala, is the primary limiting factor for hazelnut (Corylus sp.) production in the United States. In this study, 82 cultivars and selections shown to be resistant or tolerant to EFB in Oregon were field planted in New Jersey in 2017 and 2019 and evaluated for their EFB response under high disease pressure. The trees carry known single resistance (R) genes with most mapped to their respective linkage groups (LG), including LG2, LG6, and LG7, or they express quantitative resistance (QR, horizontal resistance). Disease incidence and severity was documented, stem cankers counted and measured, and the proportion of diseased wood calculated. The EFB disease response of some cultivars/selections varied considerably between New Jersey and Oregon while others were consistent. Trends were observed in relation to resistance source origin and LGs, which provide insight into durability and usefulness of resistance. In striking contrast to Oregon, nearly all selections with R-genes mapped to LG6, including those carrying the 'Gasaway' resistance allele, exhibited severe EFB infections (232 of 266 [87%]). This finding is of consequence since the U.S. hazelnut industry currently relies solely on LG6 resistance for EFB resistance. Further, for the first time, EFB was observed on several selections carrying LG7 resistance, specifically offspring of 'Ratoli' from Spain. Interestingly, selections carrying LG7 resistance from origins other than 'Ratoli' remained free of EFB, with one exception, all selections carrying LG2 (n=9) resistance also remained free from EFB. Interestingly, the EFB responses of selections expressing QR (n=26) more closely resembled the disease phenotypes they exhibited in Oregon. Overall, the divergence in EFB response between Oregon and New Jersey, where pathogen populations differ, supports the presence of pathogenic variation in A. anomala and highlights potential limitations of using single R-genes to manage the disease. Results also suggest trees expressing QR may be more stable across pathogenic populations.

Worsening of Diabetes Control Measures and Decreased Kidney Function in Pre-Diabetic Kidney Donors Compared to Non-Diabetic Donors Whose BMI Before Kidney Donation was Above 30

The incidence of end-stage renal disease has increased dramatically over the past two decades. Kidney transplantation is the best treatment option for individuals with end-stage renal disease, and living donor kidney transplantation has significant advantages over deceased donor kidney transplantation. Although there are criteria for assessing living kidney donors, different medical centers handle certain medical problems differently. The aim of this study is to investigate how kidney donation affects renal biochemical indicators, blood pressure measurements, and glucose control in healthy young female adults without diabetes compared to a pre-diabetic group. A prospective cohort study recruited 142 female kidney donors, who were divided into two cohorts based on their diabetic history (pre-diabetic and non-diabetic). The participants were monitored for seven years after kidney donation. Key clinical and biochemical markers were measured before and after donation. The pre-diabetic group had higher mean values for blood pressure readings, body mass indices, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test, HbA1c (DCCT) (%), serum creatinine levels, proteinuria, and lower e-GFR compared to those in the non-diabetic group. All these findings were statistically significant. Pre-diabetic donors are at an increased risk for many adverse clinical and biochemical outcomes, including hypertension, glucose tolerance, and worsening kidney function tests and should be advised that their condition may worsen over time and can result in end-organ complications. If the donors decide to proceed, they should be closely and frequently monitored during both the short- and long-term periods.

Pulmonary embolism: incidence and outcomes in a twelve-year historical series, in Tuscany - Italy (2010-2021).

Pulmonary embolism poses a global health concern. Administrative databases serve as valuable sources for broad epidemiological studies on the prevalence and incidence of major diagnoses or diseases. The primary scope is to provide up-to-date insights into Pulmonary Embolism incidence trends, examining shifts in management and outcomes. This retrospective observational study examines a 12-year dataset from hospitals in the Tuscany Region, covering the first two years of the Covid-19 pandemic. Administrative data from residents aged 18 and older discharged from hospital between 2010 and 2021 were used for the analysis. Hospitalized pulmonary embolism incidence slightly declined from 2010 to 2019 (64.7 to 60.9 x 100,000; p=0.152). Males under 75 showed a higher incidence rate, while females had higher incidence rates in older age groups. In-hospital and 30-day mortality decreased from 2010 to 2019 (p=0.001 and 0.020 respectively). In 2020, 30-day mortality increased (12.4% vs 10.1%, p=0.029), while in-hospital mortality remained stable. One-year mortality was stable from 2010-2019 but increased in 2020 (32.6% vs 29.4%, p=0.037). Considering the multivariable model, one-year mortality is significantly associated with sex, age, and comorbidities. Our study shows that Pulmonary Embolism persists as a relevant burden in Tuscany region, but with improvements in management over the past decade and a decisive change in pharmacological treatment. Gender-related differences emerge, highlighting the need for a gender-specific healthcare approach.

A review on urban farming: Potential, challenges and opportunities

Urban farming has emerged as a promising solution to address food security in cities. It encompasses several farming models, such as community, indoor, rooftop, and vertical farms, equipped with various farming techniques like aeroponics, hydroponics, and aquaponics. However, sustainability and yield remain major challenges to fully realize its potential. To gain more insights, we have analysed scientific literature and interviewed urban farmers. Key challenges identified include limited land and water resources, incidences of pests and diseases, financial constraints for setup and maintenance, knowledge and skill gaps among participants, and lack of effective collaboration between universities, government, and industries. This review discusses global initiatives in urban farming, different types of farming models, their benefits and challenges, and explores opportunities to address these challenges. The insights gained from this study will serve as a resource for the establishment of urban farms and the development of strategies aimed at enhancing the sustainability of urban farming.

Prevalence of inflammatory periodontal diseases

BackgroundDetermining the prevalence of inflammatory periodontal diseases makes it possible to determine the age group most prone to them, which will help to implement correct treatment and prevention measures for persons of this group, aimed at increasing the level of individual and public health of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of inflammatory periodontal diseases among the population of the city of Astana according to several criteria and to compare data on the statistics of periodontitis incidence from the world and Kazakhstan.ObjectiveThe research was conducted using the methods of clinical examinations and statistical data processing.Material and methodsThe study involved 642 people aged 18 to 80 years who, within twelve months, applied to dental institutions in the city of Astana and were checked according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Clinical studies included determining the level of oral hygiene using the OHI-S simplified oral hygiene index and determining the condition of periodontal tissue using the CPITN periodontal disease treatment need index.ResultsIt was found that the highest prevalence of various forms of gingivitis and periodontitis was observed in the 66-80 age group – 99% and 69%, respectively. The general distribution in all groups indicated a directly proportional relationship between the frequency of detection of inflammatory periodontal diseases and the age of the group participants. A comparison of data on the incidence of periodontal disease in the world and in Kazakhstan showed a 3.52% lower incidence rate in Kazakhstan compared to the world average.ConclusionsThe use of regular and timely preventive and treatment measures for the population group most prone to inflammatory periodontal diseases will make it possible to improve the state of individual health of the population and, accordingly, raise the level of public health.

Development of an Intelligent Health Education System Based on Large Language Model for Elderly Pulmonary Aspiration Prevention.

As the aging process accelerates, the incidence of chronic diseases in the elderly is rising. As a result, it is crucial to optimize health education for the elderly. Pulmonary aspiration and aspiration pneumonia are significant concerns endangering the health of the elderly. The health education paradigm now in use to prevent pulmonary aspiration in the elderly has numerous flaws, including a lack of home-based health education and the digital divide. Large language model (LLM), an example of artificial intelligence technology, is anticipated to bring a chance to address these issues and offer easily comprehensible health information for the prevention of pulmonary aspiration in the elderly. Our multidisciplinary research team fully understood the needs from the perspective of physicians, nurses and patients, built a knowledge graph (KG), and developed an intelligent Health EducAtion system based on LLM for the prevention of elderly Pulmonary Aspiration (iHEAL-ePA system).

Enhanced fusiform rust hazard maps for loblolly pine: Incorporating genotype and climate to predict disease

Hazard maps are a critical component in determining the regional disease pressure for fusiform rust disease [caused by the fungal pathogen Cronartium quercuum (Berk.) Miyabe ex Shirai f. sp. fusiforme], which is considered the most important disease of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) in the southeastern United States. Genetically improved fusiform rust resistant stock should be deployed in areas that are estimated to be at a high hazard for the disease, while stocks with lower resistance to the disease, but perhaps other favorable traits, can be deployed in areas with a lower estimated hazard. Current hazard maps are based on the historic presence of the disease but do not consider the effect of host genotype or climate which can influence the presence and distribution of fungal pathogens. Here, we aim to improve current hazard maps for fusiform rust by identifying, modeling, and predicting the relationship between the disease and yearly climate indicators. Different loblolly pine genotypes were tested: one family improved for resistance and non-improved checklots for each location. We found that, for the non-improved genotypes, location, potential evapotranspiration, consecutive cloud cover, diurnal temperature range, and a yearly available water indicator can explain 89.2 % of the deviance for disease occurrence. For the improved family, we found that longitude, yearly water deficit, yearly consecutive frost days, yearly consecutive cloud cover, and yearly diurnal temperature range explain 93.1 % deviance for disease incidence. We produce two rust hazard maps based on each model, illustrating the probability of the incidence of the disease. With this project, we pave the way for a better-informed determination of where and what loblolly pine resistant stock should be deployed to limit the damage and costs associated with the management of fusiform rust disease.

Ascorbic acid alleviates rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of autoantibodies

BackgroundAscorbic acid can regulate the function of the immune system. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of ascorbic acid in plasma cell differentiation and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsMice were intraperitoneally injected with either ascorbic acid or an equivalent volume of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). To elucidate the effects of ascorbic acid on arthritis, we utilized a collagen induced arthritis mouse model (CIA). To investigate the effects of ascorbic acid on antibody response, mice were immunized with (4-Hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl)-Ficoll (NP-Ficoll) or (4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl) acetyl-keyhole limpet hemocyanin (NP-KLH) to elicit a T-cell independent (TI) or T-cell dependent (TD) antibody response. To clarify the ability of ascorbic acid on plasma cell production, we tracked the B cell differentiation fate on the NP-specific B1-8hi BCR transgenic background.ResultsAscorbic acid-injected mice demonstrated significantly delayed disease incidence and decreased disease severity compared to PBS-injected mice. Ascorbic acid can reduce the titers of autoantibodies in both arthritis and lupus mice models. Ascorbic acid can significantly reduce the number of plasma cells and the production of antigen-specific antibodies in TI and TD antibody response. In addition, ascorbic acid can disrupt the antibody affinity maturation. Through B1-8hi adoptive transfer experiments, it has been demonstrated that ascorbic acid restrains B cell differentiation into plasma cells in a cell-intrinsic manner. After in-depth exploration, we found that ascorbic acid can block the cell cycle of B cells and promote cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, ascorbic acid inhibited the production of autoreactive plasma cells by inhibiting the Stat3 signaling pathway.ConclusionOur study demonstrates that ascorbic acid has the ability to suppress the generation of autoreactive plasma cells, diminish the production of autoantibodies, and consequently delay the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.

Linking landscape habitats with prevalence of fusarium wilt disease of cashew crop in Tanzania

Epidemic of Cashew Fusarium wilt disease (CFWD) has been a continuous focal challenge in the cashew farming, in Tanzania. Limited to edaphic conditions as a major factor in its epidemic, the current study aimed to assess the habitat-disease relationship. Purposive surveys involving assessment of disease prevalence and habitat compositions were conducted across four landscapes of southeastern zone from 2019 to 2023. Findings revealed a widespread of CFWD across diversified landscapes possessing varying habitat characteristics, mainly cultivated land with mature cashew, brownish sand loamy soils, grassland or shrub vegetation, seasonal river streamlines and natural water wells. The highest disease incidence and severity were noted at Nachingwea/Masasi plain (99.28:88.34%) followed by Liwale inland plain (98.64:89.3%), Coastal zone (72.72:59.83%) and Tunduru dissected plain (62.13:54.54%). The habitat characteristics were strongly similar within the landscape (0.86-Jaccard index) except between villages of the coastal zone (0.71-Jaccard index). Across landscapes, Nachingwea/Masasi plains and the Coastal zone were strongly similar to Tunduru dissected plain (0.63—1.0-Jaccard index), but strongly dissimilar with the Liwale inland plain (0.67—0.70- Jaccard distance). Furthermore, the presence of greater than 0.5 suitability indices across landscapes were revealed, with Liwale inland plain having strongest suitability index of 0.743 followed by Coastal zone (0.681), Tunduru dissected plain (0.617) and Nachingwea/Masasi plain. Significantly, the habitats had an increase of 0.1 suitability index, and positively correlated with disease prevalence by triggering disease incidence of 13.9% and severity of 31.4%. The study for the first time revealed the presence of an association between disease prevalence and landscape habitat characteristics of southeastern, Tanzania; paving the way to inclusive thinking of habitat as one of the drivers in the prevalence of fusarium wilt disease of cashews. Further research on the genetic coevolution of Fusarium oxysporum across landscapes to strengthen disease risk management in the cashew industry is recommended.

Cytomegalovirus immunity in high-risk liver transplant recipients following preemptive antiviral therapy vs. prophylaxis.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific T-cells, NK cells, and neutralizing antibodies (nAb) were assessed in a randomized trial of CMV prevention with preemptive antiviral therapy (PET) vs. prophylactic antiviral therapy (PRO) in donor seropositive/recipient seronegative (D+R-) liver transplant recipients (LTxR), at 100 days (end of intervention), and at 6 and 12 months post-transplant. The PET group had significantly increased numbers of circulating polyfunctional T-cells, NK cells, and nAb compared to the PRO group at day 100 and several CMV immune parameters remained significantly higher by 12 months post-transplant. Among PET recipients, preceding CMV viremia (vs. no preceding viremia) was associated with significantly higher levels of most CMV immune parameters at day 100. Higher numbers of CMV-specific polyfunctional T-cells and NKG2C+ NK cells at day 100 were associated with a decreased incidence of CMV disease in multivariable Cox regression. The strongest associations with protection against CMV disease were with increased numbers of CMV-specific polyfunctional CD4 T-cells, CD3negCD56dimCD57negNKG2Cpos, and CD3negCD56dimCD57posNKG2Cpos NK cells. PET is superior to PRO for CMV disease prevention by allowing low-level CMV replication and associated antigen exposure that is promptly controlled by antiviral therapy and facilitates enhanced CMV protective immunity in D+R- LTxR.

Vaccinome landscape in nearly 620,000 patients with diabetes.

Type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are associated with an elevated incidence of infectious diseases and a higher risk of infections-related hospitalization and death. In this study, we delineated the "vaccinome" landscape obtained with a large immunization schedule offered by the Regional Government of Lombardy in a cohort of 618,396 patients with diabetes (T1D and T2D). Between September 2021 and September 2022, immunization coverage for influenza, meningococcus, pneumococcus, and herpes zoster was obtained from the public computerized registry of the healthcare system of Lombardy Region (Italy) in 618,396 patients with diabetes and in 9,534,087 subjects without diabetes. Type of diabetes, age, mortality, and hospitalizations were retrospectively analyzed in vaccinated and unvaccinated patients. Among patients with diabetes (T1D and T2D), 44.6% received the influenza vaccine, 10.9% the pneumococcal vaccine, 2.5% the anti-meningococcus vaccine and 0.7% the anti-zoster vaccine. Patients with diabetes immunized for influenza, zoster and meningococcus showed a 2-fold overall reduction in mortality risk and a decrease in hospitalizations. A 3-fold lower risk of mortality and a decrease in hospitalizations for both cardiac and pulmonary causes were also observed after influenza, zoster, and meningococcus immunization in older patients with diabetes. Immunization coverage is still far from the recommended targets in patients with diabetes. Despite this, influenza vaccination protected nearly 3,800 per 100,000 patients with diabetes from risk of death. The overall impressive decrease in mortality and hospitalizations observed in vaccinated patients strengthens the need for scaling up the "vaccinome" landscape in patients with diabetes.

Listeria monocytogenes in Food Production and Food Safety: A Review

In the current world of global food distribution and marketing, the outbreak of a particular foodborne disease in a region may eventually occur in another part of the world at the same time. Foodborne diseases are estimated to cause over 600 million illnesses and 420,000 deaths each year. Listeriosis, a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Listeria spp. has been reported in various parts of the world’s disease outbreak and incidence. The highest number of diseases and outbreaks is caused by Listeria monocytogenes and is highly predominant among elderly persons, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and infants. This bacterium possesses the ability to survive and multiply under refrigeration temperature, a wide range of pH (4.1 - 9.6), and high salt (≤ 10%). The disease can be minimal (non-invasive/febrile gastroenteritis) and the pathogen possesses the ability to cross the epithelium and infect sterile organs (invasive). Outside food contamination, resistance to antibiotics by Listeria monocytogenes poses major public health concerns as this bacterium has developed resistance to various antibiotics in use. In addition to food, Listeria species have been isolated from the soil, water, plants, fruits, and vegetables coupled with the long incubation period (11 - 70 days), which poses a challenge to infection source identification and trace back principle. Controlling Listeria in foods can be achieved by practicing a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) strategy in the food industry, improving hygiene measures, and avoiding the consumption of contaminated foods. Also, susceptible individuals should be educated on the risks associated with the consumption of contaminated foods.

Stinging Nettle (Urtica Simensis): A Review of Its Role in Plant Pathology and Disease Management

Stinging nettle (Urtica simensis) has garnered increasing attention in the realm of plant pathology for its multifaceted role in disease management. This review aims to elucidate the diverse mechanisms by which stinging nettle influences plant pathology and contributes to disease management strategies. Stinging nettle possesses notable allelopathic properties, exerting inhibitory effects on various plant pathogens through the release of allelochemicals. Furthermore, its rich phytochemical composition, including phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids, contributes to its antimicrobial activity against a spectrum of plant pathogens. Additionally, stinging nettle exhibits immunomodulatory effects on host plants, enhancing their resistance to pathogen invasion. Moreover, the incorporation of stinging nettle extracts or formulations into integrated disease management approaches has shown promising results in reducing disease incidence and severity in various crops. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying stinging nettle's efficacy in plant disease management and optimize its utilization in agricultural systems. This review underscores the potential of stinging nettle as a valuable tool in sustainable plant disease management strategies, providing insights for researchers and practitioners alike.

Characterization of the Dominant Stages at Which Gas Flaring Is Introduced: Impacts and Policy Options to Ameliorate Them

Information on associated gas flaring in the Niger Delta is analyzed to characterize the various stages in the lifecycle of an oil exploration and production facility through which gas flaring is introduced into an area, leading to ecological, health, and economic impacts, and possible policies and implementation strategies for the reduction of the flared gas are offered. Gas flaring is currently occurring at a rate of 5318 million m3 per year in the Niger Delta region. The impacts of gas flaring on the ecological, human, and economic systems include poor air quality, acid rain, and soil degradation. Other impacts include decreased crop yield, increased incidences of respiratory diseases amongst inhabitants in the area, and losses of billions of USD yearly in economic costs. Three dominant stages in the introduction of gas flaring are characterized in this study, using the concept of the management of the invasion of non-native species into an ecosystem and it is determined that the cheapest method of minimizing gas flaring is to incorporate mitigation measures during the design stage of the oil exploration/production facility, rather than after flaring has commenced, as is the common emphasis. During the early periods of oil production, gas flaring is largely localized, and the gas utilization measures can still be implemented to good effect. However, once the facility is established, gas flaring becomes pervasive, stretching kilometers beyond the flare points. Current policies like the imposition of flare-out years on the oil producers have helped, but they have been insufficient as the intensity of gas flaring in the region continues at double the average global levels. Working with relevant stakeholders, a realistic flare-out deadline should be agreed upon, clear and specific gas flaring legislation should be drawn up that includes measures to mitigate gas flaring for each proposed oil facility, and proper data collection and management services would enable the implementation of the policies to be based on robust evidence. These policies would shift the costs of gas flaring away from the inhabitants of the region back to the operators of the facilities that are the sources of the flares.

Airway diseases in very low birth weight infants.

To identify the incidence and characteristics of airway diseases in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs). A retrospective study of 214 inborn VLBWIs admitted to our NICU between April 2009 and March 2022 (approval no: 2023-0008). Neonatologists ourselves performed bronchoscopy to diagnose airway diseases. Symptomatic airway diseases were present in 36/214 (16.8%) of VLBWIs. Common airway diseases were tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and pharyngomalacia. Infants with airway diseases had shorter gestational age, lower birth weight, more boys, and more moderate/severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Regarding treatment, more infants with airway diseases required intubation were intubated longer, used more dexamethasone, were on ventilators and oxygen longer, and were hospitalized longer. We found that VLBWIs were more frequently complicated with airway diseases, especially TBM. We also observed many pharyngeal lesions, which have not been previously reported. Intensity of prematurity, BPD, and the need for stronger respiratory management were risks for airway diseases. In VLBWIs, bronchoscopy should be actively performed because airway diseases are important complications.

Development and validation of systems for genetic manipulation of the Old World tick-borne relapsing fever spirochete, Borrelia duttonii.

Relapsing fever (RF), a vector-borne disease caused by Borrelia spp., is characterized by recurring febrile episodes due to repeated bouts of bacteremia. RF spirochetes can be geographically and phylogenetically divided into two distinct groups; Old World RF Borrelia (found in Africa, Asia, and Europe) and New World RF Borrelia (found in the Americas). While RF is a rarely reported disease in the Americas, RF is prevalent in endemic parts of Africa. Despite phylogenetic differences between Old World and New World RF Borrelia and higher incidence of disease associated with Old World RF spirochete infection, genetic manipulation has only been described in New World RF bacteria. Herein, we report the generation of genetic tools for use in the Old World RF spirochete, Borrelia duttonii. We describe methods for transformation and establish shuttle vector- and integration-based approaches for genetic complementation, creating green fluorescent protein (gfp)-expressing B. duttonii strains as a proof of principle. Allelic exchange mutagenesis was also used to inactivate a homolog of the Borrelia burgdorferi p66 gene, which encodes an important virulence factor, in B. duttonii and demonstrate that this mutant was attenuated in a murine model of RF. Finally, the B. duttonii p66 mutant was complemented using shuttle vector- and cis integration-based approaches. As expected, complemented p66 mutant strains were fully infectious, confirming that P66 is required for optimal mammalian infection. The genetic tools and techniques reported herein represent an important advancement in the study of RF Borrelia that allows for future characterization of virulence determinants and colonization factors important for the enzootic cycle of Old World RF spirochetes.

Trends in Area, Production and Productivity of Castor in Telangana

Aims: To analyse the trends in area, production and productivity of castor in Telangana and major erstwhile districts of Telangana. The main purpose of the study is to understand the growth rate of castor in a region of Telangana, as India is the largest exporter of castor oil, which has multiple industrial applications. Methodology: The secondary data of the area, production and productivity of castor from 2001-02 to 2022-23 were collected from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) was used to analyse the time-series data of castor. CAGR was calculated for 3 periods -Period I (2001-02 to 2011-12), Period II (2012-13 to 2022-23), Overall Period (2001-23). Results: The results showed a decreasing trend in both castor area and production. But castor productivity observed a positive growth rate in Telangana and the major erstwhile castor-growing districts like Mahbubnagar and Medak. However, few districts like Rangareddy, Nalgonda, and Warangal showed negative trends in productivity during Period I. The study highlighted a decline in the castor area due to the incidence of diseases like Botrytis, shifting to other crops such as cotton and climate variability. Conclusion: The study indicated that the decline in the castor area is a major concern and this study will be useful in agricultural policy making to take appropriate actions to reverse the declining trends of castor cultivation in Telangana.