101
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Anelich LECM, Lues R, Farber JM, Parreira VR. SARS-CoV-2 and Risk to Food Safety. Front Nutr 2020; 7:580551. [PMID: 33224968 PMCID: PMC7667249 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.580551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a consideration of our understanding of transmission of the causal agent, SARS-CoV-2 to humans and its potential effect on food safety and food security. The main routes of transmission are reported to be person-to-person, by respiratory droplets and to a lesser degree, by fomites. Concerns have been raised on the possibility of transmission via food and food packaging and whether the virus poses a risk to food safety. The current contribution provides an exposé of updated literature and reports applicable to various components of food safety and its linkage to SARS-CoV-2. The article focuses on SARS-CoV-2 survival in food, on food contact materials and food packaging, and its categorization as a foodborne vs. respiratory virus, the possibility of fecal-oral transmission and the likelihood of infection via the gastro-intestinal system. The survival and inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 in food through thermal and non-thermal inactivation methods as well as the survival and inactivation on inanimate surfaces and effective disinfection of food contact surfaces, are discussed. Ultimately, the article endeavors to add to the body of knowledge pertaining to the role of SARS-CoV-2 in food safety and thereby contribute to an agile and robust fraternity that is equipped to absorb and weather the ongoing effects of the pandemic on the food sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia E. C. M. Anelich
- Centre for Applied Food Sustainability- and Biotechnology, Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Ryk Lues
- Centre for Applied Food Sustainability- and Biotechnology, Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Jeffrey M. Farber
- Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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102
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Wan Y, Li Z, Wang K, Li T, Liao P. Performance verification of anti-SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody detection by using four chemiluminescence immunoassay systems. Ann Clin Biochem 2020. [PMID: 32961061 DOI: 10.1101/2020.04.27.20074849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the analytical performance of seven kits for detecting IgM/IgG antibodies against coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) by using four chemiluminescence immunoassay systems. METHODS Fifty patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection and 130 controls without coronavirus infection from the General Hospital of Chongqing were enrolled in the current retrospective study. Four chemiluminescence immunoassay systems, including seven IgM/IgG antibody detection kits for SARS-CoV-2 (A_IgM, A_IgG, B_IgM, B_IgG, C_IgM, C_IgG and D_Ab), were employed to detect antibody concentrations. The chi-square test, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Youden's index were determined to verify the cut-off value of each detection system. RESULTS The repeatability verification results of the A, B, C and D systems are all qualified. D_Ab performed best (92% sensitivity and 99.23% specificity), and B_IgM performed worse than the other systems. Except for the A_IgM and C_IgG systems, the optimal diagnostic thresholds and cut-off values of the other kits and their recommendations are inconsistent with each other. B_IgM had the worst AUC, and C_IgG had the best diagnostic accuracy. More importantly, the B_IgG system had the highest false-positive rate for testing patients with AIDS, tumours and pregnancies. The A_IgM system test showed the highest false-positive rates among elderly individuals over 90 years old. COVID-2019 IgM/IgG antibody test systems exhibit performance differences. CONCLUSIONS The Innodx Biotech Total Antibody serum diagnosis kit is the most reliable detection system for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, which can be used together with nucleic acid tests as an alternative method for SARS-CoV-2 detecting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafang Wan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhijie Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Pu Liao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
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103
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Simmonds P. Pervasive RNA Secondary Structure in the Genomes of SARS-CoV-2 and Other Coronaviruses. mBio 2020; 11:e01661-20. [PMID: 33127861 PMCID: PMC7642675 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01661-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The ultimate outcome of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is unknown and is dependent on a complex interplay of its pathogenicity, transmissibility, and population immunity. In the current study, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was investigated for the presence of large-scale internal RNA base pairing in its genome. This property, termed genome-scale ordered RNA structure (GORS) has been previously associated with host persistence in other positive-strand RNA viruses, potentially through its shielding effect on viral RNA recognition in the cell. Genomes of SARS-CoV-2 were remarkably structured, with minimum folding energy differences (MFEDs) of 15%, substantially greater than previously examined viruses such as hepatitis C virus (HCV) (MFED of 7 to 9%). High MFED values were shared with all coronavirus genomes analyzed and created by several hundred consecutive energetically favored stem-loops throughout the genome. In contrast to replication-associated RNA structure, GORS was poorly conserved in the positions and identities of base pairing with other sarbecoviruses-even similarly positioned stem-loops in SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV rarely shared homologous pairings, indicative of more rapid evolutionary change in RNA structure than in the underlying coding sequences. Sites predicted to be base paired in SARS-CoV-2 showed less sequence diversity than unpaired sites, suggesting that disruption of RNA structure by mutation imposes a fitness cost on the virus that is potentially restrictive to its longer evolution. Although functionally uncharacterized, GORS in SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses represents important elements in their cellular interactions that may contribute to their persistence and transmissibility.IMPORTANCE The detection and characterization of large-scale RNA secondary structure in the genome of SARS-CoV-2 indicate an extraordinary and unsuspected degree of genome structural organization; this could be effectively visualized through a newly developed contour plotting method that displays positions, structural features, and conservation of RNA secondary structure between related viruses. Such RNA structure imposes a substantial evolutionary cost; paired sites showed greater restriction in diversity and represent a substantial additional constraint in reconstructing its molecular epidemiology. Its biological relevance arises from previously documented associations between possession of structured genomes and persistence, as documented for HCV and several other RNA viruses infecting humans and mammals. Shared properties potentially conferred by large-scale structure in SARS-CoV-2 include increasing evidence for prolonged infections and induced immune dysfunction that prevents development of protective immunity. The findings provide an additional element to cellular interactions that potentially influences the natural history of SARS-CoV-2, its pathogenicity, and its transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Simmonds
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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104
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Buhr TL, Young AA, Borgers-Klonkowski E, Kennihan NL, Barnette HK, Minter ZA, Bohmke MD, Osborn EB, Hamilton SM, Kimani MB, Hammon MW, Miller CT, Mackie RS, Innocenti JM, Bensman MD, Gutting BW, Lilly SD, Hammer EE, Yates VL, Luck BB. Hot, Humid Air Decontamination of Aircraft Confirmed That High Temperature and High Humidity Are Critical for Inactivation of Infectious, Enveloped Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) Virus. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:592621. [PMID: 33195159 PMCID: PMC7644820 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.592621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: To develop infectious (live/dead) enveloped virus test indicators and response surface methodology (RSM) models that evaluate survival of an enveloped ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus on contaminated aircraft materials after exposure to hot, humid air (HHA). Methods and Results: Enveloped RNA bacteriophage Phi6 (Φ6) was dried on wiring insulation, aircraft performance coating (APC), polypropylene, and nylon at ≥ 8 log10 plaque-forming units (PFU) test coupon-1. Only 2.4 log10 inactivation was measured on APC at 70°Celsius (°C), 5% relative humidity (RH) after 24 h. In contrast, HHA RSM models showed a 90% probability of a 7 log10 inactivation at ≥63°C, 90% RH after 1 h, and decontamination kinetics were similar across different materials. HHA decontamination of C-130 and C-17 aircraft showed >7 log10 and ≥5.9 log10 inactivation of enveloped virus on 100 and 110 test indicators, respectively, with a 1-h treatment, excluding ramp-up and ramp-down times. Conclusions: Enveloped RNA virus test indicators were successfully developed, lab tested for HHA decontamination, analyzed for RSM, and field-tested in aircraft demonstrations. Significance and Impact of the Study: The utility of HHA decontamination was demonstrated after inactivating enveloped RNA virus on aircraft with a 1-h HHA treatment within aircraft temperature and RH limits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony L. Buhr
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B64), Dahlgren, VA, United States
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105
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Patel M. Infection control in dentistry during COVID - 19 pandemic: what has changed? Heliyon 2020; 6:e05402. [PMID: 33163669 PMCID: PMC7640357 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has emerged disrupting many socio-economical and healthcare aspects across the world. This virus can be transmitted by symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals through saliva and contact. Due to its airborne transmission, aerosols created by natural activities and during dental treatment of infected individuals have become a potential vehicle of transmission and threat. The objective of this review was to assess the existing infection control measures taken in dental health-care settings and suggest modifications to reduce the transmission of novel coronavirus. This is a general review publication. Literature search was made at National Library of Medicine, Pubmed using key words such as "dentistry and COVID", "dentistry and COVID and infection control". Publications related to behaviour, education, ethics, treatment and childcare were excluded. Publications describing general aspects of infection control were reviewed. Keyword "Dentistry and COVID and Infection control" generated 70 publications which were reviewed. Infection control measures in dentistry are designed to minimise cross transmission mainly of blood borne pathogens. The unique nature of COVID-19 including highly infectious and transmissibility, and the ability to survive for a long time in the environment requires special attention and modification to the existing infection control measures which are highlighted here. In conclusion, a modified infection prevention and control (IPC) regime will protect the dental practitioner, assistant and staff, patients and the community. During the pandemic, drastic measures are necessary, however, during an endemic period measures can be remodified as necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrudula Patel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, and Infection Control Services, National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
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106
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Ruiz‐Hitzky E, Darder M, Wicklein B, Ruiz‐Garcia C, Martín‐Sampedro R, del Real G, Aranda P. Nanotechnology Responses to COVID-19. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2000979. [PMID: 32885616 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202000979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Researchers, engineers, and medical doctors are made aware of the severity of the COVID-19 infection and act quickly against the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 using a large variety of tools. In this review, a panoply of nanoscience and nanotechnology approaches show how these disciplines can help the medical, technical, and scientific communities to fight the pandemic, highlighting the development of nanomaterials for detection, sanitation, therapies, and vaccines. SARS-CoV-2, which can be regarded as a functional core-shell nanoparticle (NP), can interact with diverse materials in its vicinity and remains attached for variable times while preserving its bioactivity. These studies are critical for the appropriate use of controlled disinfection systems. Other nanotechnological approaches are also decisive for the development of improved novel testing and diagnosis kits of coronavirus that are urgently required. Therapeutics are based on nanotechnology strategies as well and focus on antiviral drug design and on new nanoarchitectured vaccines. A brief overview on patented work is presented that emphasizes nanotechnology applied to coronaviruses. Finally, some comments are made on patents of the initial technological responses to COVID-19 that have already been put in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Ruiz‐Hitzky
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid ICMM‐CSIC c/ Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz 3 Madrid 28049 Spain
| | - Margarita Darder
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid ICMM‐CSIC c/ Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz 3 Madrid 28049 Spain
| | - Bernd Wicklein
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid ICMM‐CSIC c/ Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz 3 Madrid 28049 Spain
| | | | - Raquel Martín‐Sampedro
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid ICMM‐CSIC c/ Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz 3 Madrid 28049 Spain
- National Institute of Agricultural and Food Research INIA Ctra. de la Coruña Km 7.5 Madrid 28040 Spain
| | - Gustavo del Real
- National Institute of Agricultural and Food Research INIA Ctra. de la Coruña Km 7.5 Madrid 28040 Spain
| | - Pilar Aranda
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid ICMM‐CSIC c/ Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz 3 Madrid 28049 Spain
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107
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Fernández-de-Mera IG, Rodríguez Del-Río FJ, de la Fuente J, Pérez-Sancho M, Hervás D, Moreno I, Domínguez M, Domínguez L, Gortázar C. Detection of environmental SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a high prevalence setting in Spain. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:1487-1492. [PMID: 32894654 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since March 2020, Spain (along with many other countries) has been severely affected by the ongoing coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the rapid spread of a new virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; SARS-CoV-2). As part of global efforts to improve disease surveillance, we investigated how readily SARS-CoV-2 RNA could be detected in environmental samples collected from an isolated rural community in Spain with a high COVID-19 prevalence (6% of the population of 883 inhabitants). The first diagnosis of COVID-19-compatible symptoms in the village was recorded on 3 March 2020, and the last known active case resolved on 5 June 2020. By 15 May, two months after strict movement constraints were imposed ('lockdown'), and the cumulative number of symptomatic cases had increased to 53. Of those cases, 22 (41%) had been tested and confirmed by RT-PCR. On 13 May and 5 June, samples were collected from high-use surfaces and clothes in the homes of 13 confirmed cases, from surfaces in nine public service sites (e.g. supermarket and petrol station) and from the wastewater of the village sewage system. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 7 of 57 (12%) samples, including three households and three public sites. While there is not yet sufficient evidence to recommend environmental surveillance as a standard approach for COVID-19 epidemiology, environmental surveillance research may contribute to advance knowledge about COVID-19 by further elucidating virus shedding dynamics and environmental contamination, including the potential identification of animal reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José de la Fuente
- SaBio Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (UCLM & CSIC), Ciudad Real, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Marta Pérez-Sancho
- VISAVET and Department of Animal Health-Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Hervás
- Local Medical Service Horcajo de los Montes, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Moreno
- Servicio de Inmunología Microbiana, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Domínguez
- Servicio de Inmunología Microbiana, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET and Department of Animal Health-Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Christian Gortázar
- SaBio Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (UCLM & CSIC), Ciudad Real, Spain
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108
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Proposed Individual Risk Score for Educational Institutions Utilizing Risk of Morbidity/Mortality by SARS-CoV-2, Occupational Exposure, and Type of Transportation. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 62:e770-e772. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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109
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Poon WCK, Brown AT, Direito SOL, Hodgson DJM, Le Nagard L, Lips A, MacPhee CE, Marenduzzo D, Royer JR, Silva AF, Thijssen JHJ, Titmuss S. Soft matter science and the COVID-19 pandemic. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:8310-8324. [PMID: 32909024 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01223h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Much of the science underpinning the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic lies in the soft matter domain. Coronaviruses are composite particles with a core of nucleic acids complexed to proteins surrounded by a protein-studded lipid bilayer shell. A dominant route for transmission is via air-borne aerosols and droplets. Viral interaction with polymeric body fluids, particularly mucus, and cell membranes controls their infectivity, while their interaction with skin and artificial surfaces underpins cleaning and disinfection and the efficacy of masks and other personal protective equipment. The global response to COVID-19 has highlighted gaps in the soft matter knowledge base. We survey these gaps, especially as pertaining to the transmission of the disease, and suggest questions that can (and need to) be tackled, both in response to COVID-19 and to better prepare for future viral pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson C K Poon
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Aidan T Brown
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Susana O L Direito
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Daniel J M Hodgson
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Lucas Le Nagard
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Alex Lips
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Cait E MacPhee
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Davide Marenduzzo
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - John R Royer
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Andreia F Silva
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Job H J Thijssen
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
| | - Simon Titmuss
- Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership (ECFP), SUPA and School of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Edinburgh, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK.
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110
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Izzetti R, Gennai S, Nisi M, Barone A, Giuca MR, Gabriele M, Graziani F. A perspective on dental activity during COVID-19: The Italian survey. Oral Dis 2020; 27 Suppl 3:694-702. [PMID: 32791564 PMCID: PMC7436518 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES During the months of March and April 2020, Italy saw an exponential outbreak of COVID-19 epidemic. Dental practitioners were particularly limited in their routine activity, and the sole performance of urgent treatments was strongly encouraged during the peak of the epidemic. A survey among dental professionals was performed between 6th and 13th of April, in order to evaluate the status of dental practice during COVID-19 in Italy. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online anonymous questionnaire was administered to retrieve data on the dental procedures performed, the preventive measures adopted, and the predictions on the future changes in dentistry following the pandemic. RESULTS The survey was completed by 3,254 respondents and, according to the results obtained, dental activity was reduced by the 95% and limited to urgent treatments. The majority of the surveyed dentists employed additional personal protective equipment compared to normal routine, although in a non-negligible number of cases difficulty in retrieving the necessary equipment was reported. CONCLUSIONS The survey provided a snapshot of dental activity during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. Overall, following the peak of the epidemic, it is probable that dental activities will undergo some relevant changes prior to fully restart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Izzetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Gennai
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Nisi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Barone
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Giuca
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mario Gabriele
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Graziani
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Unit of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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111
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El-Baba F, Gabe D, Frank A. Prolonged RNA shedding of the 2019 novel coronavirus in an asymptomatic patient with a VP shunt. BMJ Case Rep 2020; 13:13/9/e237720. [PMID: 32928812 PMCID: PMC7490917 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-237720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A 33-year-old man with paranoid schizophrenia and a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt was sent to our institution from an inpatient psychiatric facility due to concerns for the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Per the facility, the patient had a fever and non-productive cough. On admission, the patient was afebrile and lacked subjective symptoms. A RNA reverse transcriptase PCR (RNA RT-PCR) test for COVID-19 was positive. A chest X-ray contained a small patchy opacity in the right middle lobe and another in the retrocardiac region concerning for pneumonia. Inflammatory markers were mildly elevated. He remained COVID-19 positive and asymptomatic for 36 days. This case details one asymptomatic carrier’s course with persistently positive COVID-19 nasopharyngeal swabs. It demonstrates that a VP shunt could be a possible predisposition for prolonged viral shedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firas El-Baba
- Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA .,Internal Medicine, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Danielle Gabe
- Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Allan Frank
- Internal Medicine, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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112
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Ijaz MK, Sattar SA, Rubino JR, Nims RW, Gerba CP. Combating SARS-CoV-2: leveraging microbicidal experiences with other emerging/re-emerging viruses. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9914. [PMID: 33194365 PMCID: PMC7485481 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Wuhan City, China, late in December 2019 is an example of an emerging zoonotic virus that threatens public health and international travel and commerce. When such a virus emerges, there is often insufficient specific information available on mechanisms of virus dissemination from animal-to-human or from person-to-person, on the level or route of infection transmissibility or of viral release in body secretions/excretions, and on the survival of virus in aerosols or on surfaces. The effectiveness of available virucidal agents and hygiene practices as interventions for disrupting the spread of infection and the associated diseases may not be clear for the emerging virus. In the present review, we suggest that approaches for infection prevention and control (IPAC) for SARS-CoV-2 and future emerging/re-emerging viruses can be invoked based on pre-existing data on microbicidal and hygiene effectiveness for related and unrelated enveloped viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Khalid Ijaz
- Global Research & Development for Lysol and Dettol, Reckitt Benckiser LLC, Montvale, NJ, USA
- Department of Biology, Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York (CUNY), Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Syed A. Sattar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Joseph R. Rubino
- Global Research & Development for Lysol and Dettol, Reckitt Benckiser LLC, Montvale, NJ, USA
| | | | - Charles P. Gerba
- Water & Energy Sustainable Technology Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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113
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Bilal M, Munir H, Nazir MS, Iqbal HMN. Persistence, transmission, and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in inanimate environments. CASE STUDIES IN CHEMICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2020; 2:100047. [PMID: 38620566 PMCID: PMC7546641 DOI: 10.1016/j.cscee.2020.100047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Currently, the emergence of a novel coronavirus, referred to as SARS-CoV-2, has become a global health concern which cause severe respiratory tract infections in humans. Person-to-person transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has occurred across the globe, within a short period of SARS-CoV-2 emergence. The goal of this analysis is to summarize in various inanimate surfaces and environments information about the frequency, persistence, potential dissemination, and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2. Most respiratory viruses, including coronaviruses, SARS-CoVs, or influenza may persist for a few days on the surfaces or objects. The length of tenacity on various inanimate surfaces depends on the environmental and growth conditions and overall survival rate could range from minutes to month time. The SARS-CoV-2 may survive and maintain infectivity in the air in unventilated buses for 30 min. As no specific vaccines or therapeutic drugs are available for this contagious virus, timely prevention measures would be crucial to control the future outbreak of this infectious disease. Precautionary strategies such as wearing masks and frequent washing hands are effective to mitigate COVID-19. Following careful consideration of the above-mentioned scenarios, the short review spotlights the pressing environmental issues regarding the persistence, transmission, and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental matrices. Aiming to address this issue with further and deeper insight into the SARS-CoV-2 emergence, a list of most concerned questions is given that should be carefully considered and answered in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, 223003, China
| | - Hira Munir
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Pakistan
| | | | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
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Household representative sample strategy for COVID-19 large-scale population screening. Med Hypotheses 2020; 144:110200. [PMID: 33254509 PMCID: PMC7430343 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.110200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In the advent of COVID-19 pandemic, testing is highly essential to be able to identify, isolate, treat infected persons, and finally curb transmission of this infectious respiratory disease. Group testing has been used previously for various infectious diseases and recently reported for large-scale population testing of COVID-19. However, possible sample dilution as a result of large pool sizes has been reported, limiting testing methods’ detection sensitivity. Moreover, the need to sample all individuals prior to pooling overburden the limited resources such as test kits. An alternative proposed strategy where test is performed on pooled samples from individuals representing different households is presented here. This strategy intends to improve group testing method through the reduction in the number of samples collected and pooled during large-scale population testing. Moreover, it introduces database system which enables continuous monitoring of the population’s virus exposure for better decision making.
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Stangvaltaite-Mouhat L, Uhlen MM, Skudutyte-Rysstad R, Szyszko Hovden EA, Shabestari M, Ansteinsson VE. Dental Health Services Response to COVID-19 in Norway. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E5843. [PMID: 32806769 PMCID: PMC7459637 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the management of urgent dental care, the perception of risk and workplace preparedness among dental staff in Norway during the COVID-19 pandemic. An electronic questionnaire regarding the strictest confinement period in Norway (13 March-17 April 2020) was distributed to dental staff. Among the 1237 respondents, 727 (59%) treated patients, of whom 170 (14%) worked in clinics designated to treat patients suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19. Out of them 88% (143) received training and 64% (103) simulation in additional infection prevention procedures, while 27 (24%) respondents reported deviation. In total, 1051 (85%) respondents perceived that dental staff had a high risk of being infected, 1039 (84%) that their workplace handled the current situation well, 767 (62%) that their workplace had adequate infection control equipment and 507 (41%) agreed that their workplace is well equipped to handle an escalation. Before an appointment, 1182 (96%) respondents always/often inquired per phone information if a patient experienced symptoms of COVID-19, and 1104 (89%) asked about a history of travel to affected areas. Twice as many patients on average per week were treated by phone than in a clinic. A lower proportion of dental staff in high incidence counties applied additional infection prevention measures compared to low and medium incidence counties. To conclude, urgent dental health care was managed relatively well in Norway. Additional training of the dental staff in adequate infection prevention and step-by-step procedures may be needed. These results may be used to improve the dental health service's response to future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Stangvaltaite-Mouhat
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Eastern Norway, Sørkedalsveien 10A, 0369 Oslo, Norway; (L.S.-M.); (M.-M.U.); (R.S.-R.); (E.A.S.H.); (M.S.)
- Department of Clinical Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Marte-Mari Uhlen
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Eastern Norway, Sørkedalsveien 10A, 0369 Oslo, Norway; (L.S.-M.); (M.-M.U.); (R.S.-R.); (E.A.S.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Rasa Skudutyte-Rysstad
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Eastern Norway, Sørkedalsveien 10A, 0369 Oslo, Norway; (L.S.-M.); (M.-M.U.); (R.S.-R.); (E.A.S.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Ewa Alicja Szyszko Hovden
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Eastern Norway, Sørkedalsveien 10A, 0369 Oslo, Norway; (L.S.-M.); (M.-M.U.); (R.S.-R.); (E.A.S.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Maziar Shabestari
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Eastern Norway, Sørkedalsveien 10A, 0369 Oslo, Norway; (L.S.-M.); (M.-M.U.); (R.S.-R.); (E.A.S.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Vibeke Elise Ansteinsson
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Eastern Norway, Sørkedalsveien 10A, 0369 Oslo, Norway; (L.S.-M.); (M.-M.U.); (R.S.-R.); (E.A.S.H.); (M.S.)
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Goodman GJ, Liew S, Callan P, Hart S, Somia N, Sullivan J, Heydenrych I. Re Facial aesthetic injections in clinical practice: Pretreatment and post-treatment consensus recommendations to minimise adverse outcome Region-specific changes in line with the Covid-19 pandemic. Australas J Dermatol 2020; 61:362-366. [PMID: 32779184 DOI: 10.1111/ajd.13374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite the recent publication in March 2020 of guidelines for facial injectable treatments, the speed of the COVID-19 pandemic and its safety implications necessitate changes to these guidelines The authors described what would constitute safest practice in the provision of facial injectable treatments and summarised these in table form. Adherence to a high standard of asepsis and infectious disease precautions remain a key patient safety requirement when performing facial aesthetic injections. A revision and update of these guideline summary tables follows. Changes made should enhance both patient and staff safety regarding COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2, a highly infective respiratory pathogen transmitted by respiratory droplets, respiratory/mucosal secretions and contaminated fomites. Some of the additions are COVID-19 specific and are likely to evolve and change, particularly should serological tests determining acquired immunity become available. Other additions represent further tightening of our infection control precautions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Goodman
- Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,University College of London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Sarah Hart
- Skin Institute, Remuera, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Naveen Somia
- Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney and University of Sydney, Australia
| | - John Sullivan
- The Sutherland Hospital, University of New South Wales, Caringbah, NSW, Australia
| | - Izolda Heydenrych
- Cape Town Cosmetic Dermatology Centre, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
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El-Shabrawi M, Hassanin F. Infant and child health and healthcare before and after COVID-19 pandemic: will it be the same ever? EGYPTIAN PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATION GAZETTE 2020. [PMCID: PMC7400748 DOI: 10.1186/s43054-020-00039-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The novel corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) current pandemic is an unpreceded global health crisis. Not only infection of infants, children, and adolescents is a concern for their families and pediatricians, but there are also other serious challenges that should be properly identified and managed as well.
Main body
We have to identify and assess the different factors that have either direct or indirect effects on child health and healthcare due to COVID-19 pandemic and focus on the serious effects. It is easily realized that there are many challenging problems associated with COVID-19 with short-term effects that already appeared and need urgent solutions and long-term effects that are not yet well apparent and have to be searched for and properly addressed.
Conclusions
COVID-19 crisis has lots of impacts on child health and child healthcare, not only from the medical aspect but also from the social, psychological, economic, and educational facets. All these adverse implications have to be identified and dealt with on individual bases approach in the short and long term.
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Isha SN, Ahmad A, Kabir R, Apu EH. Dental Clinic Architecture Prevents COVID-19-Like Infectious Diseases. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2020; 13:240-241. [PMID: 32723098 PMCID: PMC7391123 DOI: 10.1177/1937586720943992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samia Naz Isha
- Research Associate, Department of Public Health Sciences, 535595Centre for Injury Prevention and Research (CIPRB), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ashfi Ahmad
- Part-time Lecturer, Department of Architecture, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Russell Kabir
- Senior Lecturer in Research Methods, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, 2369Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Ehsanul Hoque Apu
- Postdoctoral Research Associate and Faculty, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3078Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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120
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Ingrassia PL, Capogna G, Diaz-Navarro C, Szyld D, Tomola S, Leon-Castelao E. COVID-19 crisis, safe reopening of simulation centres and the new normal: food for thought. Adv Simul (Lond) 2020; 5:13. [PMID: 32690997 PMCID: PMC7363498 DOI: 10.1186/s41077-020-00131-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The world is facing a massive burden from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Governments took the extraordinary step of locking down their own countries to curb the spread of the coronavirus. After weeks of severe restrictions, countries have begun to relax their strict lockdown measures. However, reopening will not be back to normal. Simulation facilities (SF) are training spaces that enable health professionals and students to learn skills and procedures in a safe and protected environment. Today’s clinicians and students have an expectation that simulation laboratories are part of lifelong healthcare education. There is great uncertainty about how COVID-19 will impact future training in SF. In particular, the delivery of training activities will benefit of adequate safety measures implemented for all individuals involved. This paper discusses how to safely reopen SF in the post-lockdown phase. Main body The paper outlines 10 focus points and provides operational tips and recommendations consistent with current international guidelines to reopen SF safely in the post-lockdown phase. Considering a variety of national advices and regulations which describe initial measures for the reopening of workplaces as well as international public health recommendations, we provide points of reflection that can guide decision-makers and SF leaders on how to develop local approaches to specific challenges. The tips have been laid out taking also into account two main factors: (a) the SF audience, mainly consisting of undergraduate and postgraduate healthcare professionals, who might face exposure to COVID-19 infection, and (b) for many simulation-based activities, such as teamwork training, adequate physical distancing cannot be maintained. Conclusions The planning of future activities will have to be based not only on safety but also on flexibility principles. Sharing common methods consistent with national and international health guidelines, while taking into account the specific characteristics of the different contexts and centres, will ultimately foster dissemination of good practices. This article seeks to further the conversation. It is our hope that this manuscript will prompt research about the impact of such mitigation procedures and measures in different countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pier Luigi Ingrassia
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Didattica Innovativa e di Simulazione in Medicina e Professioni Sanitarie, SIMNOVA, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Via Lanino 1, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Capogna
- Scuola di Anestesia, Centro di Simulazione EESOA, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Diaz-Navarro
- Department of Peri-operative Care, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Demian Szyld
- Center for Medical Simulation, Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Stefania Tomola
- Centro di Simulazione (CeSi) at the Centro Professionale Sociosanitario, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Esther Leon-Castelao
- Clinical Simulation Laboratory, School of Medicine and Healthcare Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Gupta R, Misra A. COVID19 in South Asians/Asian Indians: Heterogeneity of data and implications for pathophysiology and research. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2020; 165:108267. [PMID: 32533988 PMCID: PMC7832204 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2020.108267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite a large population and limited health infrastructure, the incidence and mortality of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been lower in South Asia than many regions. The underlying reasons and mechanisms for this relative protection are not established. However both genetic and environmental factors might play a role. Polymorphisms in ACE2 gene, ACE gene and in genes for some of the host cell proteases could affect the viral entry and replication. There is some evidence that HLA polymorphisms and several pathways involved in immune and inflammatory response could contribute to ethnic variation. Cross immunity because of past exposure to viral infections as well as malaria is likely to protect from the severe manifestations of disease. Role of BCG vaccination in trained innate immunity is recognised and could be a protective factor against COVID-19. There is limited evidence of the possibility of a less virulent viral strain circulating in South Asia. There is evidence from different parts of the world that temperature and humidity can influence viral survival as well as the host immune response. Finally implementation of early containment measures by some South Asian countries has also contributed to a less disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anoop Misra
- Fortis CODC Hospital, New Delhi, India; National Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation, New Delhi, India; Diabetes Foundation (India), New Delhi, India
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Chen YJ, Qin G, Chen J, Xu JL, Feng DY, Wu XY, Li X. Comparison of Face-Touching Behaviors Before and During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e2016924. [PMID: 32725247 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.16924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE There is insufficient evidence on the efficacy of masks in the general population for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in public areas. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the association of mandatory mask-wearing policies with behaviors associated with the transmission of COVID-19. OBJECTIVE To assess the association of mask wearing with face-touching behavior among the general population in public areas. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cross-sectional study used videos recorded in public transportation stations, streets, and parks among the general population in China, Japan, South Korea, Western Europe (ie, England, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy), and the US to analyze mask-wearing and face-touching behavior in public areas. Videos before the COVID-19 pandemic were defined as those recorded from January 2018 to October 2019, and those during the COVID-19 pandemic were defined as those recorded during February 2020 to March 2020 in China, Japan, and South Korea and during March 2020 in Western Europe and the US. Individuals who clearly displayed their face and face-touching behavior were included, and those whose behaviors were influenced by filming or public events were excluded. EXPOSURES Mandatory mask-wearing policies enacted at various time points in China, Japan, South Korea, Western Europe, and the US. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Proportion of individuals wearing masks and incidence of face touching. RESULTS This study included 4699 individuals before the COVID-19 pandemic and 2887 individuals during the pandemic. During the periods studied, mask wearing increased in all regions except the US, from 20 of 1745 individuals (1.1%) to 1090 of 1097 individuals (99.4%) in mainland China (P < .001), 44 of 1422 individuals (3.1%) to 346 of 893 individuals (38.7%) in Japan (P < .001), 6 of 717 individuals (0.8%) to 277 of 324 individuals (85.5% ) in South Korea (P < .001), 1 of 546 individuals (0.2%) to 6 of 379 individuals (1.6%) in Western Europe (P = .02), and 1 of 269 individuals (0.4%) to 4 of 194 individuals (2.1%) in the US (P = .17). Surgical masks were predominant in China (989 masks [89.1%]), and fabric masks were predominant in the other regions (Japan: 371 masks [95.1%]; South Korea: 240 masks [84.8%]; Western Europe: 6 masks [85.7%]; US: 5 masks [100%]). Face-touching behaviors decreased from before COVID-19 to during COVID-19 among individuals in China (72 incidences of 1745 observations [4.1%] to 12 incidences of 1097 observations [1.1%]; P < .001), South Korea (80 incidences of 717 observations [11.2%] to 7 incidences of 324 observations [2.2%]; P < .001), and Europe (62 incidences of 546 observations [11.4%] to 23 incidences of 379 observations [6.1%]; P = .01). Logistic regression found that mask wearing was associated with a reduction in face touching in China (odds ratio [OR], 3.91; 95% CI, 2.11-7.24) and South Korea (OR, 6.69; 95% CI, 2.69-16.69) and of touching the nose, mouth, and eyes (China: OR, 8.60; 95% CI, 2.65-27.86; South Korea: OR, 29.27; 95% CI, 1.79-478.22). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The findings of this cross-sectional study suggest that mandatory mask-wearing policies were associated with increased mask wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mask wearing was associated with reduced face-touching behavior, especially touching of the eyes, nose, and mouth, which may prevent contact transmission of COVID-19 among the general population in public areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jian Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Department of Medical Oncology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Qin
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Department of Medical Oncology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Grade 2015, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Department of Medical Oncology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Liang Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ding-Yun Feng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Yuan Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Department of Medical Oncology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xing Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Department of Medical Oncology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Abstract
We spotted severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 on polystyrene plastic, aluminum, and glass for 96 hours with and without bovine serum albumin (3 g/L). We observed a steady infectivity (<1 log10 drop) on plastic, a 3.5 log10 decrease on glass, and a 6 log10 drop on aluminum. The presence of proteins noticeably prolonged infectivity.
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Janković S. Current status and future perspective of coronavirus disease 2019: A review. SCRIPTA MEDICA 2020. [DOI: 10.5937/scriptamed51-27183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Aranda P, Wicklein B, Ruiz-Garcia C, Martín-Sampedro R, Darder M, Del Real G, Ruiz-Hitzky E. Research and Patents on Coronavirus and COVID-19: A Review. RECENT PATENTS ON NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 14:328-350. [PMID: 33087037 DOI: 10.2174/1872210514666201021145735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic is a global problem that requires the point of view of basic sciences and medicine as well as social, economics and politics disciplines. Viral particles of coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 as well as other enveloped viruses like influenza virus could be considered as an approximation to functional core-shell nanoparticles and therefore, their study enters the realm of nanotechnology. In this context, nanotechnology can contribute to alleviate some of the current challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The present analysis contributed to diverse sources of general information, databases on scientific literature and patents to produce a review affording information on relevant areas where as nanotechnology has offered response to coronavirus challenges in the past and may be relevant now, and has offered an update of the current information on SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 issues. RESULTS This review contribution includes specific information including: 1) An introduction to current research on nanotechnology and related recent patents for COVID-19 responses; 2) Analysis of nonimmunogenic and immunogenic prophylaxis of COVID-19 using Nanotechnology; 3) Tools devoted to detection & diagnosis of coronaviruses and COVID-19: the role of Nanotechnology; and 4) A compilation on the research and patents on nanotechnology dealing with therapeutics & treatments of COVID-19. CONCLUSION Among the increasing literature on COVID-19, there are few works analyzing the relevance of Nanotechnology, and giving an analysis on patents dealing with coronaviruses that may provide useful information on the area. This review offers a general view of the current research investigation and recent patents dealing with aspects of immunogenic and non-immunogenic prophylaxis, detection and diagnosis as well as therapeutics and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Aranda
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid, ICMM-CSIC, c/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bernd Wicklein
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid, ICMM-CSIC, c/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Ruiz-Garcia
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, CNRS, CEMHTI, (UPR 3079), Universite d'Orleans, 45071 Orleans, France
| | - Raquel Martín-Sampedro
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid, ICMM-CSIC, c/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Margarita Darder
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid, ICMM-CSIC, c/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gustavo Del Real
- National Institute of Agricultural and Food Research, INIA, Ctra de la Coruna Km 7.5, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Eduardo Ruiz-Hitzky
- Materials Science Institute of Madrid, ICMM-CSIC, c/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
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