SciTech Express

Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): A Global Concern   Recent Development: A new genotype (D1.1) of Bird Flu virus has been detected in dairy cattle in the US . Previously, all detections in cattle were of genotype B3.13 . This highlights the evolving nature of the Avian Influenza virus and its ability to infect new hosts. About Bird Flu (Avian Influenza) 1. Causative Agent: Bird Flu is caused by Avian Influenza Type A virus . The virus is divided into subtypes based on two surface proteins : Hemagglutinin (HA) – Helps the virus attach to host cells. Neuraminidase (NA) – Helps the virus spread between cells. 2. Transmission and Carriers: Migratory wild birds , especially waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans), act as natural reservoirs . The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments . 3. Human Infections: Some subtypes, like H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6 , have infected humans. Transmission occurs through contact with infected birds, poultry products, or ...

Brucellosis: A Zoonotic Bacterial Disease Recent Case in India Recently, an eight-year-old girl from Kottakkal in Malappuram district of Kerala succumbed to Brucellosis , bringing attention to this zoonotic disease. What is Brucellosis? Type: Brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by species of the Brucella genus. Common Brucella Species: Brucella melitensis (most prevalent in humans) Brucella abortus (common in cattle) Brucella suis (affects swine) Brucella canis (affects dogs) The disease primarily affects livestock but can be transmitted to humans. Transmission of Brucellosis Animal-to-Human Transmission: Direct contact with infected animals (cattle, goats, sheep, swine, and dogs). Consumption of contaminated dairy products such as unpasteurized milk and cheese. Inhalation of airborne bacteria, especially in farms, slaughterhouses, and laboratories. Human-to-Human Transmission: Extremely rare but can occur through blood transfusions, sexual contact, or breastfeeding. Symp...

GARBHINI-DRISHTI: Advancing Maternal and Child Health Research About GARBHINI-DRISHTI The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has launched GARBHINI-DRISHTI , a data dashboard at the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) in Faridabad, Haryana . This initiative aims to improve maternal and child health outcomes by providing a comprehensive and structured database for research and healthcare applications. Key Features of GARBHINI-DRISHTI Comprehensive Data Access : Provides a detailed overview of South Asia's largest maternal and child health database . Extensive Clinical Information : Includes clinical data, images, and biospecimens collected from: Over 12,000 pregnant women Newborns and postpartum mothers Part of GARBH-INi Program : GARBH-INi (Interdisciplinary Group for Advanced Research on BirtH outcomes) is a flagship initiative of the DBT . It aims to use cutting-edge scientific methods to reduce pregnancy complications and adverse birth outcomes ....

Opioids and the Future of Pain Management The U.S. FDA has approved Suzetrigine , a groundbreaking non-opioid treatment for moderate-to-severe acute pain. This marks a significant shift in pain management, reducing reliance on opioids, which are known for their high addiction potential . What are Opioids? Opioids are a class of drugs that originate from or mimic compounds found in the opium poppy plant . They act on the nervous system’s opioid receptors to produce pain relief and feelings of euphoria. Types of Opioids Opioids can be classified into three main categories: Natural Opioids (Opiates) Derived directly from the opium poppy plant . Examples: Morphine, Codeine . Semi-Synthetic Opioids Chemically modified versions of natural opioids. Examples: Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Heroin . Synthetic Opioids Fully lab-made but function similarly to natural opioids. Examples: Fentanyl, Tramadol, Methadone . Medical Uses of Opioids Pain Relief : Used for acute pain (post-surgery, injuries...

Lower-Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS) – A Step Towards Healthier Living Introduction: Excessive sodium consumption is a major public health concern as it significantly increases the risk hypertension (high blood pressure) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) . In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) , through its Department of Nutrition and Food Safety (NFS) , has issued new guidelines promoting the use of Lower-Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS) as an effective way to reduce sodium intake while maintaining food palatability. Composition of LSSS: Unlike regular salt, which is composed primarily of sodium chloride (NaCl) , LSSS contain a reduced amount of sodium and often substitute it with other minerals. The key components include: Potassium Chloride (KCl): The most common substitute for sodium chloride, providing a salty taste while reducing sodium levels. Magnesium Salts: Some variants contain magnesium compounds to enhance taste and nutritional benefits. Other Additives: Som...

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS): A Rare but Serious Neurological Disorder Recent Outbreak in Pune, Maharashtra A recent outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) has been reported in Pune. The outbreak has been linked to Campylobacter , a bacterial gut infection spread through contaminated food and water. What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)? GBS is a rare but potentially paralysing nerve disorder caused by the immune system attacking the body's nerves . It is often triggered by gastrointestinal or respiratory infections . Causes of GBS Infections : The most common cause, with Campylobacter bacteria being a primary trigger. Vaccinations or Surgery : In rare cases, some vaccines or surgeries can trigger an immune response leading to GBS. Other Viral Infections : Influenza, Zika virus, and COVID-19 have been associated with GBS cases. Symptoms of GBS Muscle Weakness : Usually starts in the legs and spreads to the upper body. Numbness or Tingling : Initial symptoms often include tingl...