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MICROBIOZ INDIA ISSUE.APRIL 2015. VOLUME .02

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EBOLA.HIV.MERS RIPLET VIRAL CASE DEFINITION PATHOPHYSIOLOGY & PUBLIC HEALTH MEASURE INVESTIGATORY REPORT

EBOLA

Interview..

Dr.Tim Sandle, Ph.D, U.K

HIV

MERS

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Many scientists have attempted to unravel the nature of viral genes and how they work. For more than four decades, viral studies have been thoroughly intertwined with those of genetics and molecular biology.

O ntents‌

An Editorial Desk for April Issue of Microbioz India, Magazines.

Recent Research News Updates, Collected from World Wide Sources.

24

05 HIV, EBOLA & MERS TRIPLE CASE DEFINITION‌.Cover Story Prepare By: Rodel Estadillo Alo.

Recent Open Scholarships Position to pursue higher education from different reputed University of World.

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32 Microbioz India, April Cross word Game: Must Solve and win an achievement Certificate of Microbioz India. List of Winners of March Issue of Cross Word.

An Interview with Dr.Tim Sandle, Ph.D Head, Bio-Products Laboratory, U.K.

26

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Editorial Lines..

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ear readers thanking you lot for your

continuous support and fantastic appreciation for Microbioz India Magazines and Microbioz International Journals. We are going to launch our April issue of magazine Cover Story entitled:�A triplet Virus Case Definition: HIV, EBOLA, and MERS-Cov this story is covered by our Philippines outreach member Rodel Estadillo Alo. The story is very interesting covering number of aspects of Pathophysiology and Public Health Measure Investigatory Report of these three viruses and respective Diseases. Apart from cover story Magazine has big storage of recent research news informations collected from worldwide sources.

Dear readers by following and as per demand of our readers, we are going to Providing recent biotech business news too from this issue, I hope this step will help us in building our huge audiences across the globe.As we did in our earlier issue of Magazines in this issue we perform an Interview with Dr.Tim Sandle, Ph.D, (Head: Bio-Products Laboratory, U.K.). Dr.Tim is a famous Microbiologist having a fantastic research experiences.

Must read more information about his research experiences and motivation in April Issue of magazines.

For better support to our academic readers who would like to pursue higher education in Microbiology and related field, Magazine also has collections of recently open scholarships positions from reputed institutions of world. Dear readers in last phase of this issue, we announced the winner’s name of March edition puzzle game and new cross word kindly solve this crossword and forward me the answers.

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Cover

Story‌

T

he MERS-CoV virus is thought to be

T

EBOLA.HIV.MERS

RIPLET VIRAL CASE DEFINITION PATHOPHYSIOLOGY & PUBLIC HEALTH MEASURE INVESTIGATORY REPORT

EBOLA

HIV

MERS

an animal virus that has sporadically resulted in human infections, with subsequent limited transmission between humans. The evidence for the animal origin of the virus is circumstantial.

Nevertheless, the alternative explanation to explain the sporadic appearance of severe human cases with long periods of time between them, and the wide geographical area over which the virus was apparently distributed, is unrecognized ongoing transmission in people. Surveillance efforts since the discovery of the virus and retrospective testing of stored respiratory specimens suggest this is not the case.

The virus has been demonstrated to grow well in cell lines that in the past have commonly been used for diagnostic viral cultures. Finally, early comparisons with other known corona viruses suggest a genetic similarity to viruses previously described in bats. However, even if an animal reservoir is identified, it is critical to identify the types of exposures that result in infection and the mode of transmission. It is unlikely that transmission occurs directly from animals to humans and the route of transmission may be complex requiring intermediary hosts, or through contaminated food or drink.

Cover Story‌

EBOLA.HIV & M E RS - Co v Ebola, HIV & MERS-cov (Middle East Respiratory Corona Virus): A Triplet Viral Case Definition, Pathophysiology and Public Health Measure Investigatory Report By: Rodel Estadillo Alo Department of Biology, College of Natural Science and Mathematics, Mindanao State University- General Santos City, 9500 General Santos City, Philippines E-mail: rodel.alo03@gmail.com

Viruses...

V

iruses are genetic elements enclosed in protein and are not considered to be organisms, as they cannot

reproduce independently. Because of their disease- producing potential, viruses are important biological entities. The virus particles produce the important disease influenza. Other viruses cause AIDS, polio, flu, and some can lead to cancer. Many scientists have attempted to unravel the nature of viral genes and how they work. For more than four decades, viral studies have been thoroughly intertwined with those of genetics and molecular biology. In the future, it is expected that viruses will be one of the principal tools used to experimentally carry genes from one organism to another. Already, viruses are being employed in the treatment of human genetic diseases.

EBOLA VIRUS Ebola virus disease (formerly known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever) is a severe, often fatal illness, with a death rate of up to 90%.

The illness affects humans and nonhuman primates (monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees). Ebola first appeared in 1976 in two simultaneous outbreaks, one in a village near the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the other in a remote area of Sudan. The origin of the virus is unknown but fruit bats (Pteropodidae) are considered the likely host of the Ebola virus, based on available evidence.

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Cover Story…

Ebola virus does not transmit through the air as influenza does. After two days and up to 21 days following exposure to the virus the disease may start suddenly with fever, muscle aches, weakness, headache and sore throat. The next stage of the disease is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, rashand failure of the liver and kidneys. Some patients also have heavy internal and external bleeding and multi-organ failure. There is no specific vaccine or treatment for the disease, but the World Health Organization and other regulatory partners are currently working to identify potential viable treatments.(WHO, 2014).

Article Credit: World Health Organization, 2014 Infections with Ebola viruses originating from Africa cause a severe disease in humans, Ebola virus disease (EVD). Since the first documented EVD outbreak in Zaire (now: the Democratic Republic of Congo) in 1976, five species of the genus Ebolavirus (Filoviridae family) have been identified from samples collected from humans and non-human primates during outbreaks of the disease: Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV), Sudan ebolavirus, Reston ebolavirus, Taï Forest ebolavirus and Bundibugyoebolavirus. Ebola viruses and Marburg virus, another member of the Filoviridae family, are classified as biosafety level 4 pathogens (BSL-4; risk group 4) and require special containment measures and barrier protection, in particular for healthcare workers. The map below presents the geographical distribution of Ebola outbreaks from 1976 to 2011 in Africa.

Ebola viruses are highly transmissible by direct contact with infected blood, secretions, tissues, organs or other bodily fluids of dead or living infected persons. Airborne transmission has not been documented and person-to-person transmission is considered the principal mode of transmission for human outbreaks regardless of how the index case was infected. Burial ceremonies are known to play a role in transmission. Transmission through sexual contact may occur up to seven weeks after clinical recovery, as observed for Marburg filovirus, and it is supposed to be possible for Ebola viruses. Transmission to humans can also occur by contact with dead or living infected animals, e.g. primates (such as monkeys and chimpanzees), forest antelopes, duikers, porcupines and bats. Hunting and butchering of wildlife (great apes and fruit bats) has been identified in previous outbreaks as a potential source of infection [8]. Bats remain the most likely, but still unconfirmed, reservoir host for Ebola viruses (EUROPEAN CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION, 2014).

Article Credit: EUROPEAN CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION, 2014 Additional transmission has occurred in communities during funerals and burial rituals. Burialceremonies in which mourners have direct contact with the body of the deceased person have played a role in the transmission of Ebola. Persons who have died of Ebola must be handled using strong protective clothing and gloves and must be buried immediately. WHO advises that the deceased be handled and buried by trained case management professionals, who are equipped to properly bury the dead.

What activities are not dangerous?

Ebola is not transmitted by…     

Casual contact in public places with people that do not appear to be sick Handling money Handling groceries Swimming in a swimming pool Mosquitoes do not transmit the Ebola virus.

Can Ebola virus survive in the environment?

Ebola virus is inactivated by 

Soap



Machine washing at higher temperatures



Ultraviolet radiation (including sunlight)



Gamma irradiation



Heating for 60 minutes at 60°C or boiling for five minutes

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Cover Story… 

Sodium hypochlorite (household bleach)



Most disinfectants.

Safe and healthy advice…

The following preventive measures should eliminate the risk of getting infected 

Avoid direct contact with blood or bodily fluids of a patient or a corpse and with objects possibly contaminated;



Avoid close contact with wild animals and consumption of ‘bush meat’;



Avoid having unprotected sexual intercourse;



Those who are providing medical care or are involved in the evaluation of an outbreak should wear protective clothing, including masks, gloves, gowns, eye protection and practice proper infection prevention and control measures.

Prevention of infection 

Avoiding contact with symptomatic patients and/or their bodily fluids;



Avoiding contact with corpses and/or bodily fluids from deceased patients;



Avoiding contact with wild animals (including monkeys, forest antelopes, rodents and bats), both alive and dead



Avoiding consumption of ‘bush meat’



Wash hands regularly, using detergents or antiseptics;



Washing and peeling fruit and vegetables before consumption;



Strictly practicing ‘safe sex’;



Avoid habitats which might be populated by bats such as caves, isolated shelters, or mining bites.

Article Credit’s-Health Protection Surveillance Centre

HIV (Human Immuno-deficiency Virus) HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is a complex retrovirus that replicates through a DNA intermediate. It is the virus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. Unlike some other viruses, the human body cannot get rid of HIV. That means that once you have HIV, you have it for life. It is a virus spread through body fluids that affects specific cells of the immune system, called CD4 cells, or T cells (Klatt, 1999).

Reverse transcription entails two primer strand transfers that might be intermolecular, transferring to the same template, or intermolecular, transferring to the other template. There are three families of retroviruses: oncoviruses(causing cancer), lentiviruses (slow viruses, of which HIV is one), and foamy viruses or spumaviruses(about which much less is known).

There are also retroviral infections of animals, e.g., SIV (simian immunodeficiency virus) infects nonhuman primates, FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) affects cats, and visna virus infects sheep (Etienneet al., 2011).

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Cover Story…

Biology, Origin and Morphology HIV consists of a cylindrical center surrounded by a sphere-shaped lipid bilayer envelope. There are two major viral glycoproteins in this lipid bilayer, gp120 and gp41. The major function of these proteins is to mediate recognition of CD4+ cells and chemokine receptors, thereby enabling the virus to attach to and invade CD4+ cells. The inner sphere contains two single-stranded copies of the genomic material, RNA, as well as multiple proteins and enzymes necessary for HIV replication and maturation: p24, p17, reverse transcriptase, integrase, and protease. Unlike other retroviruses, HIV uses nine genes to code for the necessary proteins and enzymes. The three principal genes are gag, pol, and env. The gag gene encodes core proteins. The pol gene encodes the enzymes reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase. The env gene encodes the HIV structural components known as glycoproteins.

“The first isolates of SIVcpz were all derived from animals housed in primate centers or sanctuaries, although infection was rare in these populations.”

The rest of the genes—rev, nef, vif, vpu, vpr, and tat—are important for viral replication (Etienne

and et

al.,

enhancing

2011

).Ever

HIV’s

since

HIV-1

sudden

was

rate first

discovered, the reasons

for

epidemic

and

unique pathogencity have been a

subject of intense study.

A first clue came in 1986 when a

morphologically

similar

but antigenically distinct virus was

found to cause AIDS in

patients in western Africa (Clavel

spread,

its

infectivity

emergence,

et al. 1986).

Figure 1. Morphological structure of HIV virus

Figure 2. Genetic Organization of HIV virus

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Cover Story‌

Figure 3.Origin of HIV virus. Old World monkeys are naturally infected with more than 40 differentlentiviruses, termed simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) with a suffix to denote their primate species of origin like SIVsmm from sooty mangabeys.

Genetics of HIV HIV contains nine genes made of 9749 base pairs. All retroviruses contain the genes gag (codes for internal structural proteins and capsid proteins using about 2000 base pairs), pol (codes for the three enzymes necessary for replication using about 2900 bp), and env (codes for the surface proteins gp120 and gp41 that protrude from the lipid envelope and attach to cellular receptors using about 1800 bp). Other genes within HIV are tat (transactivatorprotein), rev (regulator of expression of virus protein), vif (virus infectivity factor), nef (misnamed negative regulator factor, but really an enhancing factor), vpr (virus protein R), and vpu (virus protein U) (Klatt, 1999).

Stages of Infection and Reproduction The following are the steps how the virus infects cells and reproduces‌

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Microbioz India Call for papers and articles‌ Each author can win a chance of free of cost publication in Microbioz

India,

International

Journal

of

Microbiology

&

Achievement Certificate of Microbioz India.

S

ubmit your manuscripts today in Microbioz India e-

Magazines‌ www.microbiozindia.com Submission

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Starts

Cover Story‌ Attachment of the virion to the receptor on the cell. In the case of HIV, its gp120 attaches to a T4 cell's, or macrophage's, CD4 receptor and the coreceptor CCR5 and/or CXCR4 = fusin

.

Figure 4.Virions (colored purple) attached on the surface of a salmon cell Fusion with the cell membrane... The receptors from the virion lock to those of the cell. Then the virus receptors pull back and force a contact with the cell membrane (Centers for Disease Control, 1994).

Figure 5.Fusion of virus with cell membrane Penetration of the cell membrane, (4) Uncoating, whereby the virion sheds its coat and leaves its envelope behind. (5) Reverse transcription of ssRNA to ssDNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase occurs within the capsid. (6) DNA synthesis of a second strand to form dsDNA. (7) Migration to the nucleus of the cell. (8) Integration into the host nucleus using the enzyme integrase. The integrated DNA form of the virus is called a provirus. (9) Viral transcription. Once within the host cell's nucleus, HIV transfers its genetic code to that of the host and henceforth, the host cell can become a virus factory. The cell could lie dormant (non-replicating) for some time or it could immediately begin producing more viral RNA. Such dormant cells are usually T memory cells and are called resting cells. (10) RNA nuclear transport moves the RNA out of the host nucleus toward the inner surface of the cell membrane. (11) Protein synthesis, whereby long proteins are split into smaller pieces, using the enzyme protease. (12) RNA packaging and virion reassembly using the split proteins. (13) Reencapsidation (Centers for Disease Control, 1994).

Transmission Rates

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Cover Story…

HIV is transmitted by either exchange of bodily fluids via sharing contaminated syringes, vertical transmission from infected mother to the child, and sexual contact. The main modes of transmission via blood or bodily fluids are; transfusion of infected blood or non-artificial infected blood products,

needle sharing among infected injection drug users,

sexual transmission

involving the exchange of blood, semen, seminal fluid, or vaginal fluids needle sticks and open cuts exposed to infected fluids, piercing the skin with contaminated instruments in ear-piercing, tattooing, and acupuncture, injection with contaminated unsterilized syringes and vertical transmission can occur during birth and as a result of breast-feeding ( Cohen et al., 2011).

Infections and Complications Opportunistic Infections & Other HIV Complications Bacterial & Mycobacterial Infections

Viral Infections

Mycobacterium avlum Complex (MAC)

Cytomegalovirus

Salmonellosis

Hepatitis

Syphilis and Neuro Syphilis

Herpes Simplex

Tuberculosis

Herpes Zoster

Bacillary anglomatosis

Human Papilloma Virus

Fungal Infections

Molluscum Contagiosum

Aspergillosis

Oral Hairy Leukoplakia

Candidiasis

Progressive Multifocal leukoencephalopathy

Cryptococcal meningitis

Neurologic Conditions

Histoplasmosis

AIDS Dementia Complex Peripheral Neuropathy

Malignancies

Other Conditions & Complications

Kaposl’s sarcoma

Apthous Ulcers

Non-Hodgkn’s lumphoma

Malabsorption

Primary Central Nervous System lymphoma

Depression

Invasive Cervical Cancer

Diarrhoea Thrombocytopenia

Protozoal infections

Wasting Syndrome

Cryptosporidiosis

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura

Isosporiasis

Listerosis

Microsporidiosis

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia

Burkitts Lymphoma

Toxoplasmosis

Immmunoblastic Lymphoma

Table 1.Infections and Complications brought by HIV virus, (Centers for Disease Control

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Cover Story…

Distribution Distribution Of the many primate lentiviruses that have been identified, SIVcpz has been of particular interest because of its close genetic relationship to HIV-1 (Fig. 2). However, studies of this virus have proven to be challenging because of the endangered status of chimpanzees. The first isolates of SIVcpz were all derived from animals housed in primate centers or sanctuaries, although infection was rare in these populations. Collective analyses of nearly 2,000 wildcaught or captive-born apes identified fewer than a dozen SIVcpz positive individuals (Sharp et al. 2005).

Figure 6.Geographic distribution of SIVcpz and SIVgor infections in sub-Saharan Africa. Geographic distribution of SIVcpz and SIVgor infections in sub-Saharan Africa.

Host-Specific Adaptations HIV and SIV must interact with a large number of host replicate in infected cells (Fu et al. 2009; Ortiz et al. 2009). common ancestor of Old World monkeys and apes existed million years ago, the divergence of these host proteins may obstacle to cross-species infection. In addition, primates humans) encode a number of host restriction factors, which part of their innate immune response to protect against wide variety of viral pathogens (Malim and Emerman 2008;

“As of 11 June, 699 laboratory-confirmed cases of human infection with Middle East respiratory syndrome corona virus (MERSCoV) have been reported to WHO, including at least 209 deaths.”

Bieniasz 2009; Kajaste-Rudnitski et al. 2010). Although turn, found ways to antagonize these restriction factors, these

proteins

to

Because

the

around

25

pose

an (including

have evolved as infection with a Neil

and

viruses have, in countermeasures are

frequently species specific. Thus, a number of adaptive hurdles have to be overcome before primate lentiviruses can productively infect a new species. The first evidence of host-specific adaptation of HIV-1 came from an analysis of sites

in

the viral proteome that were highly conserved in the ape precursors of HIV-1, but changed— in the same way—each time these viruses crossed the species barrier to humans (Wain et al. 2007).

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Cover Story…

MERS-cov (Middle East Respiratory Corona virus) Corona viruses are a large family of viruses that can cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). These viruses also cause disease in a wide variety of animal species.

Figure 7.Phylogenetic relationships among members of the subfamily Coronavirinaeand taxonomic position of MERS-CoV, Photo credits: http://jvi.asm.org In late 2012, a novel coronavirus that had not previously been seen in humans was identified for the first time in a resident of 1

the Middle East. The virus, now known as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), has caused more than 50 laboratory-confirmed cases of human infection. Thus far, all patients infected with MERS-CoV have had a direct or indirect link to the Middle East; however, local non-sustained human-to-human transmission has occurred in other countries, in people who had recently travelled to the Middle East.

All MERS-CoV patients have primarily had respiratory disease, although a number of secondary complications have also been reported, including acute renal failure, multi-organ failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and consumptive coagulopathy. In addition, many patients have also reported gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea. More than half of infected patients have died. The majority has had at least one comorbid condition, but many have also been in previous good health. A small number of cases had had co-infection with other viruses including influenza A, parainfluenza, herpes simplex, and pneumococcus. As of 6 June, the median age of reported laboratory-confirmed cases is 56 years (Range 2–94 years) and 2

majority (72%) are males. A current update of the cases can be found at WHO’s Coronavirus website.

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Cover Story‌ The MERS-CoV virus is thought to be an animal virus that has sporadically resulted in human infections, with subsequent limited

transmission between humans. The evidence for the animal origin of the virus is circumstantial. Nevertheless,

the alternative explanation to explain the sporadic appearance of severe human cases with long periods of time between them, and the wide geographical area over which the virus was apparently distributed, is unrecognized ongoing transmission in people. Surveillance efforts since the discovery of the virus and retrospective testing of stored respiratory specimens suggest this is not the case.

The virus has been demonstrated to grow well in cell lines that in the past have commonly been used for diagnostic viral cultures. Finally, early comparisons with other known corona viruses suggest a genetic similarity to viruses previously described in bats. However, even if an animal reservoir is identified, it is critical to identify the types of exposures that result in infection and the mode of transmission. It is unlikely that transmission occurs directly from animals to humans and the route of transmission may be complex requiring intermediary hosts, or through contaminated food or drink.

A considerable proportion of MERS-CoV cases have been part of clusters in which limited non-sustained human-to-human transmission has occurred. Human-to-human transmission has occurred in health care settings, among close family contacts, and in the work place. Sustained transmission in the community beyond these clusters has not been observed and would represent a major change in the epidemiology of MERS-CoV.

--- Credits: WHO, World Health Organization, July 2013

Cases of Infection As of 11 June, 699 laboratory-confirmed cases of human infection with Middle East respiratory syndrome corona virus (MERSCoV) have been reported to WHO, including at least 209 deaths (Figure 1). Overall, 63.5% of cases reporting sex (n=677) are male and the median age is 47 years old (range 9 months-94 years old; n=695). An additional 113 cases occurring between 2012 and 2014 were reported by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health on 3 June 2014. These cases are not reflected in the current case count as investigation into these cases is currently ongoing with Saudi officials.

To date, the affected countries in the Middle East include Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (KSA), United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Yemen; in Africa: Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia; in Europe: France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom; in Asia: Malaysia and Philippines; and in North America: the United States of America (USA). Since the last update of 8 May 2014, four newly affected countries reported MERS-CoV cases: Algeria, Iran, Lebanon and the Netherlands.

Figure 8.Epidemic Curve of MERS-CoV Cases as of 9June 2014 (n=699) Credits: World Health Organization, July 2014

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Cover Story…

As of 10 March 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) global case count was 1,060 laboratory-confirmed cases of MERSCoV, including at least 394 deaths (case fatality rate 37%) since the first cases were reported in September 2012.1 

There have been 76 cases with onset dates in February 2015, a marked increase compared with the 30 cases in January 2015. This increase is attributable to a rise in transmission in health care settings.



The WHO and partners concluded a joint expert advisory mission to Saudi Arabia in late February 2015 and identified key areas that should be addressed to control MERS-CoV.



All cases have had a history of residence in or travel to the Middle East (>90% Saudi Arabia), or contact with travelers returning from these areas. There have been no cases in Australia.



The WHO emphasizes the need for universal application of standard infection control precautions, and transmission-based precautions when in contact with suspected or confirmed cases, and that it is not also possible to distinguish MERS-CoV from other respiratory infections.1,2



MERS-CoV can cause severe acute respiratory disease, particularly in people with underlying conditions. People with diabetes, renal failure, chronic lung disease and immunocompromised persons are at higher risk of severe disease.1



Camels are suspected to be the primary source of infection for humans, but the exact routes of direct or indirect exposure are not fully understood, and further studies (particularly case control studies) are needed. The WHO advises that people should avoid drinking raw camel milk or camel urine, or eating meat that has not been properly cooked.



There is no evidence of ongoing community transmission, but limited transmission in health care settings has been a feature of the outbreak.

Biological specimen collection and laboratory testing Specimen Collection To confirm the presence of MERS-CoV in suspect cases, collect appropriate clinical specimens for testing: (A) Available evidence suggests that lower respiratory tract specimens contain higher virus titers than upper respiratory tract specimens and are more sensitive for detecting the presence of the virus. Lower respiratory tract specimens include: Sputum, induced or non-induced. 

Endotracheal aspirate for patients on mechanical ventilation.



Bronchial alveolar lavage for those in whom it is indicated for patient management.

(B) Upper respiratory tract specimens such as nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs should be collected if lower respiratory tract specimens cannot be collected. If initial testing of an upper respiratory specimen is negative in a patient suspected of having MERS-CoV infection, repeat testing should be performed. 

Collect blood for serological testing. For recent cases, an initial blood specimen should be collected and a repeat specimen taken after a period of at least 3 weeks. For cases that had symptom onset more than 3 weeks prior to being investigated, a single blood sample is sufficient (note: results of single sera will need to be interpreted with caution as the extent of cross reactivity of currently available serological assays is unknown).

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Cover Story… 

MERS-CoV has been identified in other body fluids including blood, urine, and stool of infected patients.

However, titers of virus in these body fluids are quite low and they may not be useful for diagnostic testing.

The presence of virus in these body fluids could have public health implications and could be part of an ancillary study of a case.

Molecular diagnostics PCR is the most widely used method for presence of the virus. At least three sites in the virus genome have been identified as

An Interview with Dr.Tim Sandle…..See in next!!

detecting

the

Recent Research

suitable targets for such assays, including

Scholarships open

upE, ORF 1A and ORF 1B, and sequences of

positions……

necessary primers have been published. To

the perform

these

assays, laboratories should order the primers from their usual suppliers. Positive controls for the UpE screening and the ORF 1A confirmation assays are also available.

Serological testing Descriptions of serological tests using immunofluorescence and protein microarray methods have now been published (Corman et al 2012). Work on further serological assays is continuing in several laboratories around the world. No standard has yet been established for using serology for confirmatory testing. Collection of sera from patients being investigated for infection with MERS-CoV will greatly aid in the validation of assays currently under development and may be useful for confirmation of infection once the validation process is complete.

Viral culture The MERS-CoV virus has been shown to grow in a number of different commonly available cell lines. However, culture of this virus should not be attempted outside of specialized laboratories with appropriate biosecurity level 3 capabilities.

Genetic sequencing Specimens testing positive for MERS-CoV should be genetically sequenced, and the data uploaded to publicly accessible databases. If the laboratory doing the initial test does not have the capacity for genetic sequencing, an aliquot of the specimen should be forwarded to a reference centre. Such centres should attempt to isolate viruses from all cases so that whole genome sequencing can be performed, either in the national or international reference laboratory. Both partial and whole genome sequencing provides crucial information as to the origin and source of exposure to MERS-CoV.

Animal health and environmental investigations Investigators in public health and animal health should work together to assess the role of MERS-CoV infection in wild animals (e.g. bats, rodents) or domesticated animals (e.g. camels, sheep, goats, household pets) as sources of possible exposure for human cases.

Field visits to investigate the occurrence of illness among animals can include

MICROBIOZ INDIA

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The patient's home and its surroundings

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Local areas where food is produced to be consumed raw/unprocessed (e.g. sun-dried fruits)

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Farms and live animal markets

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Places frequented by wild animals (e.g. caves)

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Cover Story… 

Any other place of significance that the patient visited in the 14 days prior to illness onset

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In addition to animal illness and death, information should be sought on local housing, feeding and animal handling practices.

Infection control Many of the standard prevention and control measures to reduce opportunities for further transmission of nosocomial infections have been noted previously and are listed below. 

Strict infection control, the use of personal protection equipment during the delivery of care and isolation of confirmed and probable cases.

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Strict infection control and use of personal protection equipment during collection, transportation and testing of laboratory specimens in patients suspected of having infection with MERS-CoV.

If symptomatic contacts or cases with milder symptoms are cared for at home, infection control measures should be used if.

However, because of rapid progression to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and other severe life-threatening complications, even otherwise healthy, symptomatic contacts or probable cases should be considered for close observation in a medical facility.

Figure 9.Epidemic curve of 928 confirmed and 18 probable MERS-CoV cases by confirmation status; as of 10 March 2015.

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Cover Story…

REFERENCES 

CENTRES FOR D ISEASE CONTROL (1982) U PDATE ON ACQUIRED IMMUNE ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME FOR NATIONAL REPORTING - U NITED S TATES . A NNUALS O F I NTERNAL M EDICINE 103, 402403.

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CENTERS FOR D ISEASE CONTROL AND P REVENTION . (1994). 1994 REVISED CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS INFECTION IN CHILDREN LESS THAN 13 YEARS OF AGE . MMWR R ECOMM . R EP. 1994;43(RR-12):1–10.

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CLAVEL F, G UETARD D, B RUN -V EZINET F, CHAMARET S, R EY MA, S ANTOS -FERREIRA MO, L AURENT AG, D AUGUET C, K ATLAMA C, R OUZIOUX C, ET AL. 1986. I SOLATION OF A NEW HUMAN RETROVIRUS FROM W EST A FRICAN PATIENTS WITH AIDS. S CIENCE 233: 343–346.

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COHEN MS, S HAW GM, M CM ICHAEL AJ, H AYNES BF. 2011. A CUTE -HIV-1 I NFECTION : B ASIC, CLINICAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH PERSPECTIVES . N ENGL J M ED 364: 1943–1954.

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D AMOND F, D ESCAMPS D, F ARFARA I, TELLES JN, P UYEO S, C AMPA P, L EPRETREA,M ATHERON S, B RUN -V EZINET F, S IMON F. 2001. Q UANTIFICATION OF PROVIRAL LOAD OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 2 SUBTYPES A AND B USING REALTIME PCR. J CLIN M ICROBIOL 39: 4264–4268.

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ECDC, E UROPEAN C ENTRE FOR D ISEASE PREVENTION AND C ONTROL ..O UTBREAK OF E BOLA VIRUS DISEASE IN WEST AFRICA . APRIL , 2014.

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ETIENNE L, N ERRIENET E, L EBRETON M, B IBILA GT, FOUPOUAPOUOGNIGNI Y, R OUSSET D, N ANA A, D JOKO CF, T AMOUFE U, A GHOKENG AF, ET AL. 2011. C HARACTERIZATION OF A NEW SIMIAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS STRAIN IN A NATURALLY INFECTED P AN TROGLODYTESTROGLODYTES CHIMPANZEE WITH AIDS RELATED SYMPTOMS . R ETROVIROLOGY 8: 4.

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FU W, S ANDERS -B EER BE, KATZ KS, M AGLOTT DR, P RUITT KD, P TAK RG. 2009. H UMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 1, HUMAN PROTEIN INTERACTION DATABASE AT NCBI. N UCLEIC A CIDS R ES 37: D417–D422.

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HSE-H EALTH P ROTECTION S URVEILLANCE CENTRE.FREQUENTLY A SKED Q UESTIONS (FAQ S ) R EGARDING E BOLA V IRUS D ISEASE AND D IALYSIS . OCTOBER, 2014.

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KAJASTE-R UDNITSKI A, P ULTRONE C, M ARZETTA F, G HEZZI S, CORADIN T, V ICENZI E. 2010. R ESTRICTION FACTORS OF RETROVIRAL REPLICATION : THE EXAMPLE OF TRIPARTITE M OTIF (TRIM) PROTEIN 5 A AND 22. A MINO A CIDS 39: 1–9.

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KLATT EC. H UMAN I MMUNODEFICIENCY V IRUS . P ATHOLOGY OF AIDS. U NIVERSITY OF U TAH ; 1999.

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M ALIM MH, EMERMAN M. 2008. HIV-1 ACCESSORY PROTEINS –N ENSURING VIRAL SURVIVAL IN A HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT. CELL H OST M ICROBE 3: 388–398.

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M ONTERO J, N ADLER JP.P ATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF HIV I NFECTION . I N HIV/AIDS P RIMARY CARE G UIDE. CROWN H OUSE P UBLISHING L IMITED ; 2005:1–14.

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N EIL S, B IENIASZ P. 2009. H UMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS , RESTRICTION FACTORS , AND INTERFERON .J I NTERFERON CYTOKINE. R ES 29: 569–580.

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ORTIZ M, G UEX N, P ATIN E, M ARTIN O, XENARIOS I, C IUFFI A, Q UINTANA-M URCI L, TELENTI A. 2009. EVOLUTIONARY TRAJECTORIES OF PRIMATE GENES INVOLVED IN HIV PATHOGENESIS .M OLB IOL E VOL 26: 2865–2875.

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S HARP PM, S HAW GM, H AHN BH. 2005. S IMIAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS INFECTION OF CHIMPANZEES . J V IROL 79: 3891–3902.

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U.S. D EPARTMENT OF H EALTH AND H UMAN S ERVICES , N ATIONAL I NSTITUTES OF H EALTH , N ATIONAL I NSTITUTE OF A LLERGIES AND I NFECTIOUS D ISEASES . U NDERSTANDING THE I MMUNE S YSTEM AND H OW I T W ORKS . B ETHESDA, MD; 2007.

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W AIN LV, B AILES E, B IBOLLET-R UCHE F, D ECKER JM, KEELE BF, V AN H EUVERSWYN F, L I Y, TAKEHISA J, N GOLE EM, S HAW GM, ET AL. 2007. A DAPTATION OF HIV-1 TO ITS HUMAN HOST.M OLB IOLE VOL 24: 1853–1860.

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WHO, W ORLD H EALTH ORGANIZATION . FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE. A UGUST, 2014.

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Recipe for antibacterial plastic: Plastic plus egg whites

Alex Jones, a doctoral student in the department of textiles, merchandising and interiors at the University of Georgia, is studying the antibacterial properties of bioplastics. He's found that albumin, a protein found in egg whites, looks the most promising.

Credit: Cal Powell/UGA

Story Source: University of Georgia

B

ioplastics made from protein sources such as albumin and whey have shown significant antibacterial properties, findings

that could eventually lead to their use in plastics used in medical applications such as wound healing dressings, sutures, catheter tubes and drug delivery, according to a recent study by the University of Georgia College of Family and Consumer Sciences. The bioplastics materials could also be used for food packaging. Researchers tested three nontraditional bioplastics materials-albumin, whey and soy proteins--as alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics that pose risks of contamination. In particular, albumin, a protein found in egg whites, demonstrated tremendous antibacterial properties when blended with a traditional plasticizer such as glycerol."It was found that it had complete inhibition, as in no bacteria would grow on the plastic once applied," said Alex Jones, a doctoral student in the department of textiles, merchandising and interiors. "The bacteria wouldn't be able to live on it."The study appears in the online version of the Journal of Applied Polymer Science. One of the researchers' aims is to find ways to reduce the amount of petroleum used in traditional plastic production; another is to find a fully biodegradable bioplastic.The albumin-glycerol blended bioplastics met both standards, Jones said."If you put it in a landfill, this being pure protein, it will break down," he said. "If you put it in soil for a month--at most two months--these plastics will disappear."The next step in the research involves a deeper analysis of the albumin-based bioplastics potential for use in the biomedical and food packaging fields. As noted in the study, 4.5 hospital admissions out of every 100 in the U.S. in 2002 resulted in a hospital-acquired infection. In addition to the risk of contamination in hospitals, food contamination as a result of traditional plastics is a notable risk. Researchers are encouraged by the antimicrobial properties of albumin-based bioplastics that could potentially reduce these risks through drug elution--loading the bioplastics with either drugs or food preservatives that can kill bacteria or prevent it from spreading.

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Story Source: American Society of Microbiology

News Focus‌

Could antibodies from camels protect humans from MERS?

A

ntibodies from dromedary camels protected uninfected mice from Middle East Respiratory

Syndrome (MERS), and helped infected mice expunge the disease, according to a study published online March 18th in the Journal of Virology, a journal published by the American Society for Microbiology. MERS, which emerged in humans last year in the Saudi Arabian peninsula, causes severe respiratory disease, with a high mortality rate of 35-40 percent. No specific therapy is currently available. "Our results suggest that these antibodies might prove therapeutic for MERS patients, and might protect uninfected household members and healthcare workers against MERS," says corresponding author Stanley Perlman, MD, PhD, a professor in the Departments of Microbiology and Pediatrics, the University of Iowa, Iowa City.

Passive immunization, a procedure where you inject a former patient's antibodies into a new patient to fight the disease, has been used in the past, including last year in a small number of cases of Ebola, but in the case of MERS, few former patients are available to donate antibodies. Additionally, their antibody titers are often too low, and many former patients are not healthy enough to donate.

Suspecting that humans and dromedaries were likely infected by the same virus, first author Malik Peiris, D. Phil., Professor of Medical Science, School of Public Health, the University of Hong Kong, SAR, China suggested that camel sera might be used to combat MERS. The vast majority of dromedaries on the Arabian peninsula are infected, and many have high antibody titers. The investigators decided to test dromedary antibodies against virus taken from humans. They tested the antibodies in mouse models infected with the latter virus.

The study, a successful proof of concept study, showed that prophylactic or therapeutic treatment with high titer MERS immune camel sera diminished weight loss and pathological changes in lung tissues, and cleared the infections in the mice. Along with their availability in the Arabian peninsula, the site of all initial human infections thus far, camel sera have several additional advantages. The part of an antibody that binds to the antigen is the variable region, said Perlman. The camel antibody's variable region--which is the part of the antibody that recognizes antigen--is longer than most species' antibody variable regions, so camel antibodies can detect structures missed by conventional (human) antibodies."The antibody will work in humans if delivered in sufficient quantities," said Perlman. "The main hurdle is purifying the antibody and making sure that it is safe to administer to humans."Camel antibodies would also be relatively easy to use as the initial source to develop a recombinant, humanized antibody, said Perlman, explaining that while human antibodies have four chains, camel antibodies have a single chain. Recombinant, humanized antibodies could then be grown in bacteria.

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Scientist Meet…

An Interview Dr.Tim Sandle, Ph.D…

Scientist Meet…

Microbioz India, Team: Why you opt MICROBIOLOGY as a career?

Dr.Sandle: I was interested in biology at school, and this led to an interest in disease and contamination control. There are two sides to microbiology: the use of microorganisms in beneficial ways, such as in food production or with biotechnology to develop new and interesting drugs; and with the prevention of disease or with the avoidance of contamination, as in a hospital surgery unit or with the design and development of pharmaceutical medications. Microbiology is a varied career and one that is always changing, with new developments on a monthly basis.

Microbioz India, Team: Tell us a little more about your professional experiences; particularly those not mention your resume/application?

Dr.Sandle: I have worked in clinical microbiology and pharmaceutical microbiology. Both are interesting. I also try to promote microbiology extensively through social media. I have my own website “Pharmaceutical Microbiology” (www.pharmamicroresources.com) plus Face book and Linked groups, plus Twitter. I think the more conservation and debate that there is the better. My work has opened up many opportunities in relation to writing and speaking at conferences. I have visited many countries around the world and met many interesting people. I have also written several books in addition to research papers and articles. Book writing allows me to explore ideas in greater detail.

Microbioz India, Team: What is your favorite part of your current job and why is it your favorite part?

Dr.Sandle: I am involved in several roles. I am Head of Microbiology for a pharmaceutical organization, which specialized in sterile medicines. Here I provide safety assessments for medicines and carry out research. My research focuses on bioburden reduction strategies, bacterial endotoxin and disinfectant efficacy. Basically these are ways to kill microorganisms. The most challenging are bacterial spores – finding ways to penetrate endospores is not straightforward. I am also a visiting tutor at the University of Manchester and I lecture in pharmaceutical microbiology for a Master’s degree course.

This is very rewarding, specially meeting and talking with students. Furthermore, I am a committee member of Pharmig (Pharmaceutical Microbiology Interest Group) and this involves running several courses and conducting webinars. With this there is a strong regulatory focus and interest in microbiological standards.

Microbioz India, Team: How would your background and experiences strengthen this academic department?

Dr.Sandle: My experiences are varied. My first job was with parasitology. However, my main strengths are with teaching; research methods; and the investigation of microbial contamination events, using risk assessment to establish root causes and in risk mitigation strategies.

Microbioz India, Team: What is one or two of your proudest professional accomplishments?

Dr.Sandle: In terms of research, I have made a number of contributions to the trending and characterization of clean room microbiota in relation to the human microbiome and with disinfectant resistance. I have also taken a number of engineering principles, such as risk tools, and applied these to pharmaceutical processes to help make safe and efficacious medicines. My proudest professional achievement was being awarded a lifetime “Excellence in Pharmaceutical Microbiology” award in 2013.

“As we did in our earlier issue, this month we would like to introduce you all with one of famous Microbiologist from Bio-products laboratory, Dr.Tim Sandle. Microbioz India, Team wishes him a great future a head.”

“I have made a number of contributions to the trending and characterization of clean room microbiota in relation to the human microbiome and with disinfectant resistance.”

Microbioz India, Team: Mention few of your words in favour of Microbioz India.

Microbioz India is a superb publication. The research articles are interesting and cutting edge, and the news updates – picking the best microbiology stories – are invaluable.

There is no rival publication, and it is rapidly becoming a global journal of excellence.

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News Focus‌

Story Source: University of California, Sanfrancisco

Scientist’s link unexplained Image Credit: personalexcellance.com

childhood paralysis to enterovirus D68

A

research team led by UC San Francisco scientists has found the genetic signature of

enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) in half of California and Colorado children diagnosed with acute flaccid myelitis -- sudden, unexplained muscle weakness and paralysis -- between 2012 and 2014, with most cases occurring during a nationwide outbreak of severe respiratory illness from EV-D68 last fall. The finding strengthens the association between EV-D68 infection and acute flaccid myelitis, which developed in only a small fraction of those who got sick. The scientists could not find any other pathogen capable of causing these symptoms, even after checking patient cerebrospinal fluid for every known infectious agent. Researchers analyzed the genetic sequences of EV-D68 in children with acute flaccid myelitis and discovered that they all corresponded to a new strain of the virus, designated strain B1, which emerged about four years ago and had mutations similar to those found in poliovirus and another closely related nerve-damaging virus, EV-D70. The B1 strain was the predominant circulating strain detected during the 2014 EV-D68 respiratory outbreak, and the researchers found it both in respiratory secretions and -- for the first time -- in a blood sample from one child as his acute paralytic illness was worsening. The study also included a pair of siblings, both of whom were infected with genetically identical EV-D68 virus, yet only one of whom developed acute flaccid myelitis."This suggests that it's not only the virus, but also patients' individual biology that determines what disease they may present with," said Charles Chiu, MD, PhD, an associate professor of Laboratory Medicine and director of UCSF-Abbott Viral Diagnostics and Discovery Center. "Given that none of the children have fully recovered, we urgently need to continue investigating this new strain of EV-D68 and its potential to cause acute flaccid myelitis."Among the 25 patients with acute flaccid myelitis in the study, 16 were from California and nine were from Colorado. Eleven were part of geographic clusters of children in Los Angeles and in Aurora, Colorado, who became symptomatic at the same time, and EV-D68 was detected in seven of these patients. Although the researchers found EV-D68 in the children's respiratory secretions and in the blood from one case, they did not find it in cerebrospinal fluid. The researchers said this may not be surprising given that other nerve-damaging viruses, like polio, are very rarely detected in cerebrospinal fluid. Eighty percent of the children reported having an upper respiratory illness about six days, on average, before their acute flaccid myelitis symptoms began. Slightly more reported having a fever, including all of the cases from the clusters in California and Colorado. Samples were collected more than a week after the children began showing symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, and this likely made it much harder to find EV-D68. There may also be other reasons to explain why the virus was not found in cerebrospinal fluid in children with neurological symptoms."The lack of detectable virus in CSF could also mean that the neurological symptoms are coming from an aberrant immune response to recent EV-D68 infection and not because the virus is directly invading neurons," Chiu said.

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News Focus‌

Date syrup shows promise for fighting bacterial infections Story Source: Society for General Microbiology

D

ate syrup -- a thick, sweet liquid derived from dates that is widely

consumed across the Middle East -- shows antibacterial activity against a number of disease-causing bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. New research, presented today at the Society for General Microbiology's Annual Conference in Birmingham, showed that, in vitro, date syrup is able to inhibit the growth of bacteria faster than manuka honey, which has previously been shown to have antibacterial properties and is increasingly used in dressings to improve wound repair. Hajer Taleb, a research student from Cardiff Metropolitan University, who undertook the work, identified that the date syrup contains a number of phenolic compounds that form naturally in the date fruit as it matures. These compounds have previously been shown to have antibacterial activity.

Artificial syrup -- made of the constituent sugars found in natural syrup but lacking the phenolic compounds -- was not as effective at inhibiting bacterial growth. In vitro results have shown that date syrup produced traditionally in Basra, Southern Iraq, has antibacterial activity comparable to manuka honey.

The results revealed that when the syrup was mixed with a range of diseasecausing bacteria -- including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa -- it inhibited their growth.

The date syrup was effective in similar amounts to manuka honey but worked more quickly, inhibiting bacterial growth after six hours of treatment, while the manuka honey required longer. Date syrup is eaten in a large number of countries due to its perceived health benefits. However, this work is part of a comprehensive study that aims, for the first time, to identify and examine the mechanisms underlying any potential health benefits, in particular its antibacterial effects.Dr Ara Kanekanian from Cardiff Metropolitan University, who leads on this research, said: "While this work is currently in vitro, it suggests that date syrup could exhibit health benefits through its antibacterial activities, similar, or in some cases, better than honey. At this stage, this has mainly been attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, until further research is undertaken, we caution people against using the syrup to treat wounds."

While the research is still in the laboratory stage, the researchers anticipate that date syrup could have a clinical value similar to honey, which is utilised as a topical antibacterial treatment for wound infection.

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News Focus‌

Story Source: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

'Attract and kill:' trapping malaria mosquito moms before they lay eggs

I

n a world first, researchers have found that a naturally occurring chemical attracts pregnant malaria-transmitting mosquitoes -- a

discovery which could boost malaria control efforts. The chemical, cedrol, found in mosquito breeding sites near Africa's Lake Victoria, could be used in traps that would 'attract and kill' the female mosquito, preventing reproduction before she lays hundreds of eggs.A child dies every minute from malaria, according to World Health Organization estimates. In Africa, malaria parasites carried by the female Anopheles gambiae mosquito are responsible for most of those deaths. While current methods have reduced the burden of malaria, new control tools are desperately needed as mosquitoes develop resistance to insecticides and avoid indoor controls such as bed nets. While much research has been done into repellents and attractants of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes as they hunt humans for a blood meal, this is the first chemical confirmed to attract female mosquitoes after they have fed, while they search for a place to lay their eggs, and offers a new way to control mosquitoes. The work was published in the Malaria Journal by the OviART research group, a multinational team bringing together researchers from the Kenya-based International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, the Swedish Royal Institute of Technology and the UK's Durham University.

Vector control -- preventing contact between mosquitoes and people and reducing the number of mosquitoes -- is considered to be the best strategy to tackle malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. Many studies have asked how the blood-thirsty mosquito finds human targets for a blood meal, and many successful control methods focus on protecting people from bites. Several chemicals have been identified that attract hungry mosquitoes looking for a feed, and odour-based traps have been designed to attract the mosquito away before biting.

The OviART team asked: what happens next? How does the mosquito find suitable water bodies for her aquatic offspring after she has fed? And can we manipulate that choice? "To improve vector control and work towards malaria elimination, we need to look beyond blood-feeding to better understand mosquito behavior at other times in her life," said Mike Okal, an icipe researcher, a PhD student at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and corresponding author on the study. The OviART project followed the Anopheles gambiae mosquito's journey: after a blood meal from a human, the female mosquito heads off to lays her eggs in a pool of still water.

The team noticed that some pools would be full of larvae, while others remained empty."For the past six years, we have been studying how the major malaria-transmitting mosquito in Africa selects which pool to lay her eggs in, and asking how that choice could be manipulated so we can intercept and kill her before she lays hundreds of eggs," said Mr Okal. The team in Kenya, at icipe's Thomas Odhiambo Research Station in Mbita on the shore of Lake Victoria, set up a number of pools of water with different infusions, such as grasses, different soils, even rabbit food pellets, and judged which pools the mosquitoes preferred to lay in by counting the number of mosquito larvae in each. They quickly honed in on one particular soil, which they dubbed their 'magical mud'."We found the mosquitoes were more than twice as likely to lay eggs in water infused with this particular soil than in water fresh from Lake Victoria," said Mr Okal.

After various studies to confirm that it was an odour released from the soil infusion, rather than the look of the turbid water, that was attracting mosquitoes, the challenge was to isolate the precise chemical that drew them in. Colleagues at the Swedish Royal Institute of Technology used gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to identify a number of chemicals released from the soil-infused water and compared these with over 100 samples taken from natural mosquito breeding sites around Lake Victoria. They quickly honed in on one -- the sesquiterpene alcohol cedrol -- which was present in their soil infusion and was also found in more than 50% of their natural habitat samples. Back in Kenya, cedrol was tested at icipe on mosquitoes in cages and in the wild. Pregnant mosquitoes were offered a choice: lake water, or lake water treated with cedrol. The team confirmed that the mosquitoes were two times more likely to lay eggs in water with cedrol in the laboratory and a controlled field environment. During their field test, the team showed that wild mosquitoes were three times more likely to be caught in traps baited with cedrol than in traps with lake water alone. Project leader Dr Ulrike Fillinger, of icipe and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said the search for a chemical which attracts egg-bearing mosquitoes has a long history. "Many supposed attractants have been suggested in previous publications, but these were based on small scale laboratory studies which showed that the mosquitoes can sense these chemicals, and didn't show whether they affect mosquito behavior," said Dr Fillinger."Our study for the first time has carefully demonstrated that egg-bearing Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes can detect the chemical cedrol and are drawn to it in real-world circumstances.""The next step for us is to show how we can use cedrol in traps as part of an 'attract and kill' strategy to complement current vector control methods and to protect people from the deadly malaria parasite carried by these mosquitoes."

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Business in focus…

Shire, BioMarin and the snowball effect of buyout rumors By: Damian Garde News Credit: Fierce Biotech

S

hire ($SHPG) is an acquisitive company with a focus on rare diseases.

BioMarin ($BMRN) fits the same description. A blog post that, by its own admission, "might be codswallop," reported that the former is considering buying the latter. And those three facts combined to send the shares of BioMarin, far from a penny stock, up as much as 15% on Friday, illustrating how the biotech boom has changed Wall Street's perception of the drug industry. It began with a

Shire CEO Flemming Ornskov

Thursday evening post on the financial blog Betaville in which Ben Harrington wrote that "top sources (and I mean top)" told him Shire had approached BioMarin about a deal, retaining Morgan Stanley and Lazard as it considered bidding on the roughly $18 billion company. Then, Friday morning, Deutsche Bank analyst Robyn Karnauskas, among the sector's most bullish observers, held a conference call to discuss BioMarin's value and outlined a hyperoptimistic scenario in which the company could be worth nearly three times its current value in a year or so. Both narratives seemed to take hold among investors hoping to get in on the next big buyout in an industry rife with consolidation, pushing BioMarin's value to an alltime high of around $132 per share. The case for Shire acquiring BioMarin is fairly simple. Under the leadership of CEO Flemming Ornskov, Shire has established itself as a fast-growing player in rare diseases unafraid to pay big premiums, evidenced its by multibillion-dollar deals for NPS Pharma and Viro Pharma.

BioMarin, meanwhile, has 5 on-the-market treatments for rare ailments and a

“Recent Research Scholarships Positions open to pursue higher education in Microbiology & Biotechnology from reputed Universities and Research Institutes”

wide pipeline of new products--including what could become the first approved treatment for Duchene muscular dystrophy--making it an on-paper fit with Shire's appetite for expansion. But, as Citigroup pointed out in a note to investors, such a deal remains deeply unlikely, and unsourced blog posts are perhaps not the best places to get clues about impending megadeals. Such market gossip comes and

Microbioz Journals International Journal of Microbiology

goes all the time in biotech, and more often than not it amounts to nothing, leaving would-be takeout targets to gradually give back the share value gains they amassed during the fervor. But rarely do those kinds of rumors have such an

Call for Papers www.microbiozjournals.com

effect on companies the size of BioMarin and Friday's events will likely only fuel worries that biotech valuations are spiraling out of control, pointing to an industry wide bubble primed to burst.

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Scholarships Open Position Download Microbioz India, Magazines‌.

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Scholarships Update‌ Ireland: Centre for Chromosome Biology, School of Natural Sciences: Funded PhD Scholarship About Scholarship Nucleoli form around arrays of genes that encode the major RNA component of ribosome. These ribosomal gene arrays, known as nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) are located on the short-arms of five human chromosomes. Contrary to popular belief the human genome sequence is incomplete and missing regions include the NOR bearing short arms of human chromosomes 13, 14, 15, 21 and 22. The successful candidate will join a Welcome Trust funded team that aims to describe the genomic architecture surrounding human NORs (see recent publications Floutsakou et al. 2013. Genome Res 23: 2003-2012 and Grob et al. 2014.

Genes Dev 28: 220-230).

Eligibility Applicants should have a good primary degree (First or Second Class Honours) or M.Sc. in an appropriate discipline (Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology etc.). The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated. Previous research is also an advantage but is not essential.

How to Apply Please send a letter of introduction, a 400 word statement on your research ambitions and a current CV, indicating your research experience and including the names of two referees to Professor Brian McStay via email to brian.mcstay@nuigalway.ie

Deadline 5pm on Friday 10th April 2015.

For Details www.chromosome.ie/ & www.nuigalway.ie/biochemistry/staff/mcstay/index.html.

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Scholarships Update‌ A unique and exciting opportunity for a PhD combining both experimental and modeling work has arisen at the School of Medical Sciences at the University of Aberdeen in collaboration with the Unilever Safety & Environmental Assurance Centre. The project will be supervised by Dr Samantha Miller (University of Aberdeen) and Dr Ilias Soumpasis (Unilever).

Eligibility This project is funded by the BBSRC (CASE). Full funding is available to UK/EU applicants only (note: eligibility criteria may apply for EU applicants).Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a 2.1 Honours degree in a relevant subject. Applicants with a minimum of a 2.2 Honours degree may be considered provided they have a Distinction at Masters Level

How to Apply Please apply for admission to the 'Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Sciences (Science)' to ensure that your application is passed to the correct college for processing. Please provide a copy of the degree certificate and transcript for each previous degree undertaken, a copy of your English language proficiency certificate (if relevant), and contact details of two referees who can comment on your previous academic performance (at least one should be from your current degree programme).

References will be requested if you are selected for interview. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Deadline Friday, April 10, 2015

For Details www.abdn.ac.uk/clsm/graduate/research/antimicrobial-resistance-719.php

CSEAS

Fellowships

for

Visiting

Research

Scholars at Kyoto University in Japan, 2016 About Scholarship Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) of Kyoto University, Japan is offering visiting research fellowships for scholars and researchers who work on Southeast Asia, or on any one of the countries in that region. Applicants must be interested in spending time in Kyoto in order to conduct research, write or pursue other scholarly interests in connection with their field of study. Total six fellowships will be awarded for the first half of 2016 on a competitive basis

Eligibility Applicants must be productive scholars of high reputation under 65 years of age at the time of the fellowship appointment; those over 65 may be considered only if they are outstanding. This fellowship is not available to individuals currently pursuing graduate degrees or post-doctoral studies. Only experienced librarians are eligible to apply for the library position. Scholars who have previously held CSEAS fellowships must wait six years after the completion of their fellowships before reapplying.

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APRIL 2015 ISSUE, 2015

34

Scholarships Update…

How to Apply     

Applicants are encouraged to submit their application via e-mail. Email applications must have the following attached documents (A4 size in PDF or MS word format).

A completed application form A curriculum vitae (not exceeding 5 pages, must include research experience and a list of main publications) Two referees Applicants must also contact their respective referees and request them to send their letters of recommendations to CSEAS via email. The letter should be written in their institution’s letterhead. Email Applications and letters of recommendations must be sent by email. (Important note: please put “CSEAS fellowship” as the subject or title of the email message, otherwise your message will not reach us). Applicants with no access to email may write to CSEAS to ask for an application form. They must then submit the above forms, as well as ask their referees to send their sealed letters of recommendation via post.

Deadline The application deadline is April 30, 2015.

For Details http://www.cseas.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/networks/international-networks/opportunities/

PhD Studentship in Cancer and Genetics Study at Cardiff University in UK, 2015 About Scholarship Cardiff University is offering PhD Studentship for EU (Non UK), International (Non EU) and UK applicants. This studentship is generously funded by MRC CTU. Studentship is awarded in the field of Cancer and Genetics Study. This studentship consists of full UK/EU tuition fees, as well as a Doctoral Stipend. The deadline for applications is 2 May 2015.

Eligibility Residency: Full awards (fees plus maintenance stipend) are open to UK Nationals and EU students who can satisfy UK residency requirements. To be eligible for the full award, EU Nationals must have been in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the course for which they are seeking funding, including for the purposes of full-time education. EU Nationals who do not meet the above residency requirement are eligible for a fees only award, provided that they have been ordinarily resident in the EU for at least 3 years prior to the start of their proposed programme of study.

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APRIL 2015 ISSUE, 2015

35

Scholarships Update‌ How to Apply In the first instance, you should submit a CV & Covering Letter to Dr. Richard Adams by emailing adamsra@cardiff.ac.uk.

Deadline The deadline for applications is 2 May 2015.

For Details http://courses.cardiff.ac.uk/funding/R2489.html

Endophytic

bacteria:

chemical

warfare

co-existence (BBSRC

and iCASE

studentship) About Scholarship A 4 year PhD studentship is available at IBERS, Aberystwyth University to start within the academic year 2015/16. Endophytic bacteria (EB) live within plant tissues without causing signs of disease. They can be considered to sit at the benign end of the spectrum between mutualists and pathogens. EB have been reported to confer benefits to the host plant in terms of growth promotion and protection from pests and pathogens. In order to maintain an endophytic lifestyle these bacteria must both interact with the host plant and other bacterial and fungal entophytes without triggering defense mechanisms (co-operation), yet assist the plant in identifying and attacking pathogens (chemical warfare). These ancient relationships are not only fascinating from an evolutionary perspective but are potentially of great value for both sustainable crop production and as novel sources of bioactive natural products including antimicrobials and antifungal. The student will receive a stimulating interdisciplinary training comprising microbiology, plant science, genetics & genomics, and natural product chemistry. The project encompasses basic discovery science and applied research; we therefore anticipate high impact publications and aim to identify novel bioactive compounds of interest for commercialization.

Eligibility Residency: Full awards (fees plus maintenance stipend) are open to UK Nationals and EU students who can satisfy UK residency requirements. To be eligible for the full award, EU Nationals must have been in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the course for which they are seeking funding, including for the purposes of full-time education. EU Nationals who do not meet the above residency requirement are eligible for a fees only award, provided that they have been ordinarily resident in the EU for at least 3 years prior to the start of their proposed programme of study.

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APRIL 2015 ISSUE, 2015

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Scholarships Update‌ How to Apply Please contact Kerrie Farrar kkf@aber.ac.uk for further information. Applications to include a CV, cover letter, and application form, available from our Official Site

Deadline Monday, April 13, 2015

For Details http://www.aber.ac.uk/en/postgrad/howtoapply/

EMBL,

(European

Molecular

Biology

Laboratory), International Ph.D Program Unique in the world and waiting for you!

The EMBL International PhD Programme, originally established in 1983, represents the flagship of EMBL's commitment to first class training and education. Internationality, dedicated mentoring and early independence in research characterise our programme. Considered to be one of the most competitive PhD training schemes to enter, we are committed to providing EMBL PhD students with the best starting platform for a successful career in science. The EMBL International PhD Programme is directed by Helke Hillebrand - Academic Coordinator, EICAT and Dean of Graduate Studies.

Contact details Meriam Bezohra, Administrative Officer Matija Grgurinovic, Senior Administrative Officer EMBL Heidelberg, MeyerhofstraĂ&#x;e 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany Tel:

+49 6221 387 -8612 or 8896

Fax:

+49 6221 387 -8400

Email:

predocs@embl.de

(*The above Information is collected from EMBL official site)

MICROBIOZ INDIA

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APRIL 2015 ISSUE, 2015

37

Scholarships Update…

CNIO

Summer

Training

Programme

for

Undergraduate Students in Spain, 2015 About Scholarship The Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) announces up to 10 vacancies for undergraduate students to work in a lab at the CNIO over the summer. The programme runs from June 22 to August 14, 2015, and is open to undergraduate students of any nationality. Travel expenses and meals at the CNIO cafeteria will be covered for summer training programme students during their stay at the centre.

Eligibility Application requirements   

You must have passed at least 2/3 of the total credit points (courses or exams) required for a Life Sciences or Biomedicine related undergraduate degree (in any country).

You must have an excellent academic track record with a Grade Point Average (GPA) above 0.75 (with your GPA as the numerator and the highest possible GPA as the denominator).

You must have a good knowledge of English.

How to Apply Only on line applications will be considered. Please attach your CV in pdf format; doc and rtf formats are also accepted. Please note that the size of this document must not exceed 1MB.

Deadline The application deadline is 26 April, 2015.

For Details https://www.cnio.es/ing/cursos/practicasverano.asp

AUT Vice Chancellor Doctoral Scholarships in New Zealand, 2015

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APRIL 2015 ISSUE, 2015

38

Scholarships Update…

About Scholarship Auckland University of Technology is offering vice chancellor doctoral scholarships for domestic and international applicants.

These scholarships are awarded to applicants who are qualified to register for full-time study in a doctoral degree at AUT. Scholarships are available for up to three years and each scholarship is worth in total approximately $96,000. The scholarship is awarded on the basis of academic excellence. The applications deadlines are 15 April 2015 and 15 October 2015.

Eligibility     

The October round is open to all applicants. The scholarship is open to applicants who are qualified to register for full-time study in a doctoral degree at AUT. The April round is open only to domestic applicants and international applicants with a qualifying degree from a New Zealand University.

Applicants must meet the normal admission criteria to the doctoral programme, including, minimally, second class (first division) honours or equivalent as stated in the Academic Calendar.

The proposed field of study is one where the University can offer supervision Preference will be given to new applicants to a doctoral programme, including those in provisional candidature at AUT

How to Apply There are two parts to the application process. You must 1) apply for this scholarship online and 2) submit your application for doctoral study if you have not already done so. Both procedures must be initiated for your application to be considered. Domestic applicants are advised to contact the Faculty Postgraduate Office where you intend to study to discuss admission into the PhD programme. International applicants should contact phdadmissions-at-aut.ac.nz for advice regarding the admissions process prior to applying for this scholarship. Applicants for this scholarship who have initiated the application for admission are more likely to be successful.

Deadline The applications deadlines are 15 April 2015 and 15 October 2015.

For Details http://www.aut.ac.nz/study-at-aut/fees-scholarships-and-finance/scholarships/scholarships-andawards/detailpage?detailCode=803262&sessionID=2656294&sourceIP=undefined&X_FORWARDED_FOR=undefined

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APRIL 2015 ISSUE, 2015

39

2 W

MICROBIOZ INDIA

April 2015

Crossord015 2

MICROBIOZ INDIA

April

015

List of winners of March 2015 Edition Following candidates are successfully solved Microbioz India Cross Word game of February 2015 Dipti Bhadauriya

IIT-Kanpur, India

Shruti Rawat

IIT-Roorkee

Poonam Rajput

Sagar, M.P.India

Mhd.Tariq

Faisalabad, Pakistan

Mansoor Ahmd

Kohat, Pakistan

Vaishnvi Ramesh Asma Beg

Guntur, A.P, India Faisalabad, Pakistan

Benda G

Peru

Ramakrishnan

MKU, Madurai, India

Taylor Francis

Hints Key

Ireland

Dear readers here we are not mentioning names of few winners because of Late submission of answers, Winners will be communicated later via e-mail for Microbioz India, Certificate.

www.proprofs.com

Solve Today

 Spiral-shaped bacteria  An organism that obtains its nutrients From dead organic matter  An organism that lives in, on, or at the Expense of another  organism without contributing to the Host’s survival  A microorganism that lives and grows in The presence of free oxygen  A potent toxin that is secreted or excreted By living organisms  Bacteria that are permanent and generally Beneficial resident s in the human body  An organism in which another, usually Parasitic organism is nourished and Harbored.  A carrier of pathogenic organisms, Especially one that can transmit a di sea Se.

Solve this cross word and forward us scanned Copy of answers by 15th of April 2015

Graphic Design By: Jamyle Savaris