Severe Acute Respiratory Virus Research Articles

A review of SARS-CoV-2 drug repurposing: databases and machine learning models.

The emergence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) posed a serious worldwide threat and emphasized the urgency to find efficient solutions to combat the spread of the virus. Drug repurposing has attracted more attention than traditional approaches due to its potential for a time- and cost-effective discovery of new applications for the existing FDA-approved drugs. Given the reported success of machine learning (ML) in virtual drug screening, it is warranted as a promising approach to identify potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors. The implementation of ML in drug repurposing requires the presence of reliable digital databases for the extraction of the data of interest. Numerous databases archive research data from studies so that it can be used for different purposes. This article reviews two aspects: the frequently used databases in ML-based drug repurposing studies for SARS-CoV-2, and the recent ML models that have been developed for the prospective prediction of potential inhibitors against the new virus. Both types of ML models, Deep Learning models and conventional ML models, are reviewed in terms of introduction, methodology, and its recent applications in the prospective predictions of SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors. Furthermore, the features and limitations of the databases are provided to guide researchers in choosing suitable databases according to their research interests.

Analysis of acute COVID-19 including chronic morbidity: protocol for the deep phenotyping National Pandemic Cohort Network in Germany (NAPKON-HAP).

The severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic causes a high burden of acute and long-term morbidity and mortality worldwide despite global efforts in containment, prophylaxis, and therapy. With unprecedented speed, the global scientific community has generated pivotal insights into the pathogen and the host response evoked by the infection. However, deeper characterization of the pathophysiology and pathology remains a high priority to reduce morbidity and mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). NAPKON-HAP is a multi-centered prospective observational study with a long-term follow-up phase of up to 36months post-SARS-CoV-2 infection. It constitutes a central platform for harmonized data and biospecimen for interdisciplinary characterization of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and long-term outcomes of diverging disease severities of hospitalized patients. Primary outcome measures include clinical scores and quality of life assessment captured during hospitalization and at outpatient follow-up visits to assess acute and chronic morbidity. Secondary measures include results of biomolecular and immunological investigations and assessment of organ-specific involvement during and post-COVID-19 infection. NAPKON-HAP constitutes a national platform to provide accessibility and usability of the comprehensive data and biospecimen collection to global research. NAPKON-HAP establishes a platform with standardized high-resolution data and biospecimen collection of hospitalized COVID-19 patients of different disease severities in Germany. With this study, we will add significant scientific insights and provide high-quality data to aid researchers to investigate COVID-19 pathophysiology, pathology, and chronic morbidity.

Nanopore sequencing technology and its applications.

Since the development of Sanger sequencing in 1977, sequencing technology has played a pivotal role in molecular biology research by enabling the interpretation of biological genetic codes. Today, nanopore sequencing is one of the leading third-generation sequencing technologies. With its long reads, portability, and low cost, nanopore sequencing is widely used in various scientific fields including epidemic prevention and control, disease diagnosis, and animal and plant breeding. Despite initial concerns about high error rates, continuous innovation in sequencing platforms and algorithm analysis technology has effectively addressed its accuracy. During the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, nanopore sequencing played a critical role in detecting the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 virus genome and containing the pandemic. However, a lack of understanding of this technology may limit its popularization and application. Nanopore sequencing is poised to become the mainstream choice for preventing and controlling COVID-19 and future epidemics while creating value in other fields such as oncology and botany. This work introduces the contributions of nanopore sequencing during the COVID-19 pandemic to promote public understanding and its use in emerging outbreaks worldwide. We discuss its application in microbial detection, cancer genomes, and plant genomes and summarize strategies to improve its accuracy.

Synthesis of multivalent sialyllactose-conjugated PAMAM dendrimers: Binding to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and influenza hemagglutinin

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza viruses have spread around the world at an unprecedented rate. Despite multiple vaccines, new variants of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza have caused a remarkable level of pathogenesis. The development of effective antiviral drugs to treat SARS-CoV-2 and influenza remains a high priority. Inhibiting viral cell surface attachment represents an early and efficient means to block virus infection. Sialyl glycoconjugates, on the surface of human cell membranes, play an important role as host cell receptors for influenza A virus and 9-O-acetyl-sialylated glycoconjugates are receptors for MERS, HKU1 and bovine coronaviruses. We designed and synthesized multivalent 6′-sialyllactose-counjugated polyamidoamine dendrimers through click chemistry at room temperature concisely. These dendrimer derivatives have good solubility and stability in aqueous solutions. SPR, a real-time analysis quantitative method for of biomolecular interactions, was used to study the binding affinities of our dendrimer derivatives by utilizing only 200 micrograms of each dendrimer. Three SARS-CoV-2 S-protein receptor binding domain (wild type and two Omicron mutants) bound to multivalent 9-O-acetyl-6′-sialyllactose-counjugated and 6′-sialyllactose-counjugated dendrimers bound to a single H3N2 influenza A virus's HA protein (A/Hong Kong/1/1968), the SPR study results suggest their potential anti-viral activities.

A Multivariant Surrogate Neutralization Assay Identifies Variant-Specific Neutralizing Antibody Profiles in Primary SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Infection.

Primary infection with the Omicron variant of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can be serologically identified with distinct profiles of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs), as indicated by high titers against the Omicron variant and low titers against the ancestral wild-type (WT). Here, we evaluated whether a novel surrogate virus neutralization assay (sVNT) that simultaneously quantifies the binding inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to the proteins of the WT- and Omicron-specific receptor-binding domains (RBDs) can identify nAb profiles after primary Omicron infection with accuracy similar to that of variant-specific live-virus neutralization tests (NTs). Therefore, we comparatively tested 205 samples from individuals after primary infection with the Omicron variant and the WT, and vaccinated subjects with or without Omicron breakthrough infections. Indeed, variant-specific RBD-ACE2 binding inhibition levels significantly correlated with respective NT titers (p < 0.0001, Spearman's r = 0.92 and r = 0.80 for WT and Omicron, respectively). In addition, samples from individuals after primary Omicron infection were securely identified with the sVNT according to their distinctive nAb profiles (area under the curve = 0.99; sensitivity: 97.2%; specificity: 97.84%). Thus, when laborious live-virus NTs are not feasible, the novel sVNT we evaluated in this study may serve as an acceptable substitute for the serological identification of individuals with primary Omicron infection.

Kepatuhan Penggunaan Masker Mahasiswa Akper YPPP Wonomulyo Terhadap Pencegahan Corona Virus Disease (Covid 19)

Covid-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (sars-cov-2) is a virus attacking the respiratory system. Corona virus can cause disorders in the respiratory system, acute pneumonia, to acute virus syndrome. Cov-2) which is more known with the corona virus is a new type of coronavirus that is transmitted to humans. This virus cannot attack anyone, both babies, children, adults, elderly, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. Death rate also still continue to happen even in balanced with the number of patient currency. The world health problem that is currently in the spotlight and is very important to get the attention of health scientists and the general public is a disease caused by the corona virus. This research contains compliance with the use of masks for the prevention of COVID-19 at the YPPP Wonomulyo Akper campus, Polewali Mandar Regency, which is located in the eastern part of the Sidodadi Village area. The purpose of this study was to find out about covid 19 and its prevention, to get appropriate information regarding student compliance regarding the use of masks that are good and correct for preventing covid 19 at the YPPP Wonomulyo Akper campus. The method used is a descriptive survey with a cross sectional study approach. This research was conducted door to door involving 40 samples with the results obtained as follows. The average score who compliance with the use of mask are 33 respondents (82.5%) and 7 respondents who do not compliance (17.5%).

Why has the epidemiology of RSV changed during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has drastically perturbed the epidemiology of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) respiratory tract infections in children. The reasons for this are not clear. In this article, we review the current literature and critically discuss the different theories to explain why the epidemiology of RSV has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Proposed mechanisms include decreased viral immunity in vulnerable age groups caused by the prolonged lack of RSV circulation early in the pandemic, potential Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-induced immune dysregulation, viral interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and RSV, and modifications in health-seeking behaviors as well as heath systems factors. Research in viral genomics and phylogeny, and more robust immunology research is needed to guide RSV prevention and health care resource planning.

Renal function impairment might be worsened by SARS-CoV-2 virus: a triple critical care disease causing hypoxemia.

On 11 July 2022, a middle-aged black African male merchant, 57 was taken to the emergency room. The patient arrived at the emergency room with grade II pitting edema, weight loss, a cold intolerance, stress, a fever, a headache, dehydration, and shortness of breath that had persisted for 2 days. After 28h, the results of the polymerase chain reaction test on a throat swab confirmed the presence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 virus. An auscultation of the chest revealed bilateral wheezing, crepitations in the right infrascapular region, and bilateral airspace consolidations, which were more pronounced on the left side and included practically all zones. He received 1000ml of fluid resuscitation (0.9% normal saline) and insulin therapy through a drip as soon as he was admitted to an ICU. He received subcutaneous enoxaparin 80mg once every 12h as treatment for his confirmed COVID-19 and thromboprophylaxis. The COVID-19 infection can cause difficulties in infected individuals that can result in pneumonia, intubation, admission to an ICU, and even death. Common diseases, including diabetes mellitus and chronic renal disease, have a synergistic relationship with early death. The existence of prior chronic renal impairment may possibly be a factor in the increased prevalence of kidney involvement seen in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Psychological impact of the pandemic of covid-19

The pandemic of covid -19, caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2(SARS-CoV-2) is not just a grave physical health crisis but it has caused significant mental health issues as well. The aim of this paper is to assess the psychological impact of the pandemic of COVID-19. In order to reduce the community transmission of the disease, countries across the world imposed lockdowns, schools were closed, infected people were isolated and other strict measures were taken to ensure social and physical distancing. These measures induced stress, anxiety tension and depression in communities. As a result lot of people developed depression, mood alterations, irritability, insomnia, posttraumatic stress disorder and emotional exhaustion. A number of mental health supporting strategies need to be adopted to reduce the psychological impact of COVID19 pandemic. Some of these strategies include providing psychological support in form of tele psychotherapy, keeping away from mis- information, engaging in physical activity, chanting, yoga and meditation etc. Vulnerable population such as elderly people especially those who are staying alone and those already suffering from preexisting mental disorder should have access to psychologists.

A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge and Attitude towards Covid 19 Vaccination among the Adult Population visitingJubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur

Introduction: Covid 19 is the disease caused by a Novel Corona virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV2). The vaccination is intended to protect individual against these diseases. Objective: To assess the level of knowledge towards Covid 19 vaccination among the adult population visiting JMMC and RI, To assess the attitude towards Covid 19 vaccination among the adult population visiting JMMC and RI, To associate between knowledge regarding COVID 19 Vaccination with selected demographic variables, To associate between the attitude towards COVID 19 vaccination with selected demographic and clinical data variables, To correlate between the knowledge and attitude towards Covid 19 vaccination. Material and Methodology: The study conducted on a sample size of 100, and the people at age between 18 to 60 years. The research design of the study was descriptive design and the sample was selected by non-probability purposive sampling. Tool: The tool consist of section A, sociodemographic and clinical data variables, and section B self-structured knowledge assessment questionnaire, and section C self-structured attitude scale. Result: On assessment of Knowledge regarding COVID 19 vaccination of the population with self-structured knowledge questionnaire overall about 50(50%) of participants have good knowledge. On assessment Of Attitude towards Covid-19 vaccination of the population with self-structured attitude scale. 66(66%) of population shows moderately favourable attitude towards Covid 19 vaccination. Discussion: In this study, there is significant association(p=0. 006) between education and attitude towards Covid 19 vaccination. It is also found that between knowledge and attitude revealed that there is moderately positive correlation at 0. 01 level. Therefore as the knowledge level increases more favourable attitude is observed among the population.

A clinical pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction study between dextromethorphan and emvododstat, a potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inhibitor

PurposeA therapeutic agent that targets both viral replication and the hyper-reactive immune response would offer a highly desirable treatment for severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19) management. Emvododstat (PTC299; 4-chlorophenyl 6-chloro-1-[4-methoxyphenyl]-1,3, 4,9-tetrahydro-2H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-2-carboxylate) was found to be a potent inhibitor of immunomodulatory and inflammation-related processes by inhibition of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase to reduce the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections This drug interaction study was performed to determine if emvododstat was an inhibitor of CYP2D6.MethodsPotential drug-drug interactions between emvododstat and a CYP2D6 probe substrate (dextromethorphan) were investigated by measuring plasma dextromethorphan and metabolite (dextrorphan) concentrations before and after emvododstat administration. On day 1, 18 healthy subjects received an oral dose of 30 mg dextromethorphan followed by a 4-day washout period. On day 5, subjects received an oral dose of 250 mg emvododstat with food. Two hours later, 30 mg dextromethorphan was administered.ResultsWhen given with emvododstat, plasma dextromethorphan concentrations increased substantially, while metabolite levels (dextrorphan) remained essentially the same. Maximum plasma dextromethorphan concentration (Cmax) increased from 2006 to 5847 pg/mL. Dextromethorphan exposure (AUC) increased from 18,829 to 157,400 h·pg/mL for AUC0-last and from 21,585 to 362,107 h·pg/mL for AUC0-inf following administration of emvododstat. When dextromethorphan parameters were compared before and after emvododstat, least squares mean ratios (90% confidence interval) were found to be 2.9 (2.2, 3.8), 8.4 (6.1, 11.5), and 14.9 (10.0, 22.1) for Cmax, AUC0-last, and AUC0-inf, respectively.ConclusionEmvododstat appears to be a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor. No drug-related treatment emergent adverse effects (TEAEs) were considered to be severe or serious.Trial registrationEudraCT 2021-004626-29, 11 May 2021.

A Bond between Corona Virus and Diabetes Mellitus: Deadly Cause for Public

The deadly disease of Corona Virus disease (COVID-19), a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARSCoV-2), is causing extensive morbidity and mortality. Elder person and presence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity significantly increases the warning for hospitalization and death in COVID-19 patients. In this point of view, clued-up by the studies on SARS-CoV-2, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV), and the existing literature on SARS-CoV-2, we will discuss probable mechanisms by which diabetes modulates the host-viral interactions and host-immune responses. We look forward to bringing to light gaps in knowledge that require further studies applicable to COVID-19 in patients with diabetes.

Current trends in RNA virus detection through metatranscriptome sequencing data.

With advances in sequencing technology, metatranscriptome sequencing from a variety of environmental and biological sources has revealed the existence of various previously unknown RNA viruses. This review presents recent major RNA virome studies sampled from invertebrate and vertebrate species as well as aquatic environments. In particular, we focus on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and related RNA virus identification through metatranscriptome sequencing analyses. Recently developed bioinformatics software and databases for RNA virus identification are introduced. A relationship between newly identified RNA viruses and endogenous viral elements in host genomes is also discussed.

Adsorption of SARS-CoV-2 Spike (N501Y) RBD to Human Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 at a Lipid/Water Interface.

The receptor binding domain (RBD) of spike proteins plays a crucial role in the process of severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) attachment to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The N501Y mutation and later mutations introduced extra positive charges on the spike RBD and resulted in higher transmissibility, likely due to stronger binding with the highly negatively charged ACE2. Consequently, many studies have been devoted to understanding the molecular mechanism of spike protein binding with the ACE2 receptor. Most of the theoretical studies, however, have been done on isolated proteins. ACE2 is a transmembrane protein; thus, it is important to understand the interaction of spike proteins with ACE2 in a lipid matrix. In this study, the adsorption of ACE2 and spike (N501Y) RBD at a lipid/water interface was studied using the heterodyne-detected vibrational sum frequency generation (HD-VSFG) technique. The technique is a non-linear optical spectroscopy which measures vibrational spectra of molecules at an interface and provides information on their structure and orientation. It is found that ACE2 is effectively adsorbed at the positively charged 1,2-dipalmitoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DPTAP) lipid monolayer via electrostatic interactions. The adsorption of ACE2 at the DPTAP monolayer causes a reorganization of interfacial water (D2O) from the D-down to the D-up orientation, indicating that the originally positively charged DPTAP interface becomes negatively charged due to ACE2 adsorption. The negatively charged interface (DPTAP/ACE2) allows further adsorption of positively charged spike RBD. HD-VSFG spectra in the amide I region show differences for spike (N501Y) RBD adsorbed at D2O, DPTAP, and DPTAP/ACE2 interfaces. A red shift observed for the spectra of spike RBD/DPTAP suggests that spike RBD oligomers are formed upon contact with DPTAP lipids.

Interaction of COVID-19 With Common Cardiovascular Disorders.

The onset and widespread dissemination of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 in late 2019 impacted the world in a way not seen since the 1918 H1N1 pandemic, colloquially known as the Spanish Flu. Much like the Spanish Flu, which was observed to disproportionately impact young adults, it became clear in the early days of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that certain groups appeared to be at higher risk for severe illness once infected. One such group that immediately came to the forefront and garnered international attention was patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease. Here, we examine the available literature describing the interaction of COVID-19 with a myriad of cardiovascular conditions and diseases, paying particular attention to patients diagnosed with arrythmias, heart failure, and coronary artery disease. We further discuss the association of acute COVID-19 with de novo cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction due to coronary thrombosis, myocarditis, and new onset arrhythmias. We will evaluate various biochemical theories to explain these findings, including possible mechanisms of direct myocardial injury caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 virus at the cellular level. Finally, we will discuss the strategies employed by numerous groups and governing bodies within the cardiovascular disease community to address the unprecedented challenges posed to the care of our most vulnerable patients, including heart transplant recipients, end-stage heart failure patients, and patients suffering from acute coronary syndromes, during the early days and height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saliva microRNA Profile in Children with and without Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may impair immune modulating host microRNAs, causing severe disease. Our objectives were to determine the salivary miRNA profile in children with SARS-CoV-2 infection at presentation and compare the expression in those with and without severe outcomes. Children <18 years with SARS-CoV-2 infection evaluated at two hospitals between March 2021 and February 2022 were prospectively enrolled. Severe outcomes included respiratory failure, shock or death. Saliva microRNAs were quantified with RNA sequencing. Data on 197 infected children (severe = 45) were analyzed. Of the known human miRNAs, 1606 (60%) were measured and compared across saliva samples. There were 43 miRNAs with ≥2-fold difference between severe and non-severe cases (adjusted p-value < 0.05). The majority (31/43) were downregulated in severe cases. The largest between-group differences involved miR-4495, miR-296-5p, miR-548ao-3p and miR-1273c. These microRNAs displayed enrichment for 32 gene ontology pathways including viral processing and transforming growth factor beta and Fc-gamma receptor signaling. In conclusion, salivary miRNA levels are perturbed in children with severe COVID-19, with the majority of miRNAs being down regulated. Further studies are required to validate and determine the utility of salivary miRNAs as biomarkers of severe COVID-19.

COVID 19 VACCINATION COVERAGE AND ITS ADVERSE EVENTS AMONG GENERAL POPULATION OF CENTRAL INDIA- A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: The ongoing pandemic of Corona virus disease 2019(covid-19) is caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome Corona virus 2(SARCOV-2). The World Health Organization declared it as public health emergency of international concern on January 2020, and later declared as pandemic on 11 March 2020. Indian population are less aware of the pandemic and have less access to health care facilities. Vaccinating these populations can decrease disease burden and control the on-going pandemic. Aim and Objectives: To study AEFI pattern following COVID- 19 vaccination in populations of central India. To estimate the COVID 19 vaccination coverage in general populations of central India. To assess the factorsresponsible for COVID 19 vaccination coverage. Material and Methods: Acommunity based crosssectionalstudy will be conducted among 350 participantsresiding in the eld practice area of Urban and Rural Health care Training Centre of tertiary medical college of Nagpur from January 2022 to February 2022. Data is collected using structured interview questionnaire after obtaining informed consent. Data is entered in Excelsheet and SPSS 20 for analysis. Analysis will be done using Chi square test and a p Value of &lt;0.05 will be taken as signicant. Results: In the present study, 84.31% (301 out of 357) of the study participants had taken COVID Vaccine, of which 217 (60.78%) were partially vaccinated and remaining 80 (23.52%)were fullyVaccinated.Most ofthe vaccinated study participants had takenCovishield vaccine 237 (78.73%)followed byCovaxin vaccine 62 (20.59%). And 16.52% were aware about AE reporting however those who aware of them 20% report Adverse events. The percentage of The AEFI st nd experienced after 1 dose was 112 (51.61%) and 2 dose was 30 (35.71%). Fever and general fatigue were the most common AEFI experienced. Conclusion: The COVID vaccine coverage was good in general population.Although adverse events due to vaccines were reported during the survey none of the eventsreported were severe orserious, which reiteratesthat the vaccines used in India are safe and the events will last without any kind of sequelae.Studies ofthis nature reinforce theneedfor vigilant monitoring and reporting of AEFIs

Graphene-Based Electrochemical Nano-Biosensors for Detection of SARS-CoV-2

COVID-19, a viral respiratory illness, is caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was first identified in Wuhan, China, in 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide. Testing and isolation were essential to control the virus’s transmission due to the severity of the disease. In this context, there is a global interest in the feasibility of employing nano-biosensors, especially those using graphene as a key material, for the real-time detection of the virus. The exceptional properties of graphene and the outstanding performance of nano-biosensors in identifying various viruses prompted a feasibility check on this technology. This paper focuses on the recent advances in using graphene-based electrochemical biosensors for sensing the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Specifically, it reviews various types of electrochemical biosensors, including amperometric, potentiometric, and impedimetric biosensors, and discusses the current challenges associated with biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The conclusion of this review discusses future directions in the field of electrochemical biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 detection, underscoring the importance of continued research and development in this domain.

Association of SARS-COV-2 viral RNAemia, IL- 6 gene polymorphism, serum IL-6 and peripheral blood lymphocytes and monocytes with disease severity in COVID-19 patients

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a fatal pandemic viral disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus type-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The aim of this study is to observe the associations of IL-6, SARS-COV-2 viral load (RNAemia), IL- 6 gene polymorphism and lymphocytes and monocytes in peripheral blood with disease severity in COVID-19 patients.This study was carried out from March 2021 to January 2022. RT-PCR positive 84 COVID-19 patients and 28 healthy subjects were enrolled. Blood was collected to detect SARS-COV-2 viral RNA (RNAemia) by rRT-PCR, serum IL-6 level by chemiluminescence method, SNPs of IL-6 by SSP-PCR, immunophenotyping of lymphocytes and monocyte by flow cytometry. Serum IL-6 level (pg/ml) was considerably high among critical patients (102.02 ± 149.7) compared to severe (67.20 ± 129.5) and moderate patients (47.04 ± 106.5) and healthy controls (3.5 ± 1.8). Serum SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid positive cases detected mostly in critical patients (39.28%) and was correlated with extremely high IL-6 level and high mortality (R = .912, P < 0.001). Correlation between IL-6 and monocyte was statistically significant with disease severity (severe group, p < 0.001, and 0.867*** and critical group p < 0.001 and 0.887***).In healthy controls, moderate, severe and critically ill COVID-19 patients, IL-6 174G/C (rs 1800795) GG genotype was 82.14%, 89.20%, 67.85% and 53.57% respectively. CC and GC genotype had strong association with severity of COVID-19 when compared with GG genotype. Significant statistical difference found in genotypes between critical and moderate groups (p < 0.001, OR-10.316, CI-3.22–23.86), where CC genotype was associated with COVID-19 severity and mortality.The absolute count of T cell, B cell, NK cell, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells were significantly decreased in critical group compared to healthy, moderate and severe group (P < 0.001).Exhaustion marker CD94/NKG2A was increased on NK cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cell among critical and severe group. Absolute count of monocyte was significantly increased in critical group (P < 0.001).Serum IL-6, IL-6 174 G/C gene and SARS-CoV-2 RNAaemia can be used in clinical practice for risk assessment; T cell subsets and monocyte as biomarkers for monitoring COVID-19 severity. Monoclonal antibody targeting IL-6 receptor and NKG2A for therapeutics may prevent disease progression and decrease morbidity and mortality.

A Retrospective Study on Prevalence and Profile of Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction Positive Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 Samples Tested in a Tertiary Care Hospital, South India

Introduction: In December 2019, the first outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 disease was reported in Wuhan, China, which was later re-named by the World Health Organization (WHO) as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Severe illness was seen in approximately 20%–30% of patients needing intensive care unit intervention. Some of them presented with acute respiratory distress syndrome, Shock, acute cardiac injury, organ dysfunction, and acute renal injury. Aim: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-positive COVID-19 samples among the total samples tested and their profile among the positive COVID-19 samples at a tertiary care hospital, south India, and will also highlight the comorbid conditions associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Materials and Methods: Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal samples from suspected COVID-19 patients were collected and tested by real-time RT-PCR and the targeted genes were identified. Results: In our study, the prevalence of COVID-19 RT-PCR positivity was found to be 3.1%. Among the positive samples, males were found to be 58.2% and females were 41.8%. Symptomatic patients were less of which 17.65% were male and 7.98% were female. Among the positive patients, 83 patients had severe symptoms that needed intensive care and died of complications. The patients with comorbid conditions had diabetes as the leading cause of death. Conclusion: The present study concluded that mortality was found to be more among COVID-positive males, elderly people above 60 years of age with comorbid conditions.