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Anand U, Pal T, Zanoletti A, Sundaramurthy S, Varjani S, Rajapaksha AU, Barceló D, Bontempi E. The spread of the omicron variant: Identification of knowledge gaps, virus diffusion modelling, and future research needs. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 225:115612. [PMID: 36871942 PMCID: PMC9985523 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognised variant B.1.1.529 of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as a variant of concern, termed "Omicron", on November 26, 2021. Its diffusion was attributed to its several mutations, which allow promoting its ability to diffuse worldwide and its capability in immune evasion. As a consequence, some additional serious threats to public health posed the risk to undermine the global efforts made in the last two years to control the pandemic. In the past, several works were devoted to discussing a possible contribution of air pollution to the SARS-CoV-2 spread. However, to the best of the authors' knowledge, there are still no works dealing with the Omicron variant diffusion mechanisms. This work represents a snapshot of what we know right now, in the frame of an analysis of the Omicron variant spread. The paper proposes the use of a single indicator, commercial trade data, to model the virus spread. It is proposed as a surrogate of the interactions occurring between humans (the virus transmission mechanism due to human-to-human contacts) and could be considered for other diseases. It allows also to explain the unexpected increase in infection cases in China, detected at beginning of 2023. The air quality data are also analyzed to evaluate for the first time the role of air particulate matter (PM) as a carrier of the Omicron variant diffusion. Due to emerging concerns associated with other viruses (such as smallpox-like virus diffusion in Europe and America), the proposed approach seems to be promising to model the virus spreading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uttpal Anand
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, 8499000, Israel
| | - Tarun Pal
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, 8499000, Israel
| | - Alessandra Zanoletti
- INSTM and Chemistry for Technologies Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 38, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Suresh Sundaramurthy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, 462003, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, CO, 10250, Sri Lanka; Instrument Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Damià Barceló
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), H2O Building, Scientific and Technological Park of the University of Girona, Emili Grahit 101, Girona, 17003, Spain; Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), JordiGirona, 1826, Barcelona, 08034, Spain
| | - Elza Bontempi
- INSTM and Chemistry for Technologies Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 38, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
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COVID-19: Reducing the risk via diet and lifestyle. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 21:1-16. [PMID: 36333177 PMCID: PMC9550279 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This review shows that relatively simple changes to diet and lifestyle can significantly, and rapidly, reduce the risks associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in terms of infection risk, severity of disease, and even disease-related mortality. A wide range of interventions including regular exercise, adequate sleep, plant-based diets, maintenance of healthy weight, dietary supplementation, and time in nature have each been shown to have beneficial effects for supporting more positive health outcomes with COVID-19, in addition to promoting better overall health. This paper brings together literature from these areas and presents the argument that non-pharmaceutical approaches should not be overlooked in our response to COVID-19. It is noted that, in several cases, interventions discussed result in risk reductions equivalent to, or even greater than, those associated with currently available vaccines. Where the balance of evidence suggests benefits, and the risk is minimal to none, it is suggested that communicating the power of individual actions to the public becomes morally imperative. Further, many lives could be saved, and many harms from the vaccine mandates avoided, if we were willing to embrace this lifestyle-centred approach in our efforts to deal with COVID-19.
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Paital B, Das K. Spike in pollution to ignite the bursting of COVID-19 second wave is more dangerous than spike of SAR-CoV-2 under environmental ignorance in long term: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:85595-85611. [PMID: 34390474 PMCID: PMC8363867 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15915-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Specific areas in many countries such as Italy, India, China, Brazil, Germany and the USA have witnessed that air pollution increases the risk of COVID-19 severity as particulate matters transmit the virus SARS-CoV-2 and causes high expression of ACE2, the receptor for spike protein of the virus, especially under exposure to NO2, SO2 and NOx emissions. Wastewater-based epidemiology of COVID-19 is also noticed in many countries such as the Netherlands, the USA, Paris, France, Australia, Spain, Italy, Switzerland China, India and Hungary. Soil is also found to be contaminated by the RNA of SARS-CoV-2. Activities including defecation and urination by infected people contribute to the source for soil contamination, while release of wastewater containing cough, urine and stool of infected people from hospitals and home isolation contributes to the source of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in both water and soil. Detection of the virus early before the outbreak of the disease supports this fact. Based on this information, spike in pollution is found to be more dangerous in long-term than the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. It is because the later one may be controlled in future within months or few years by vaccination and with specific drugs, but the former one provides base for many diseases including the current and any future pandemics. Although such predictions and the positive effects of SARS-CoV-2 on environment was already forecasted after the first wave of COVID-19, the learnt lesson as spotlight was not considered as one of the measures for which 2nd wave has quickly hit the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswaranjan Paital
- Redox Regulation Laboratory, Department of Zoology, College of Basic Science and Humanities, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, 751003, India.
| | - Kabita Das
- Department of Philosophy, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, India
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Complementary and Alternative Medicines Used by Middle-Aged to Older Taiwanese Adults to Cope with Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10112250. [PMID: 36360594 PMCID: PMC9690493 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10112250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) to manage stress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to community-dwelling adults between the ages of 46 and 75 years, and a total of 351 participants completed the questionnaire. Log-binominal regression analyses were fitted to explore the factors associated with the use of CAMs. Results: The mean age of the participants was 57.0 years, and 67.0% reported that they had used CAMs within the past three months. Middle-aged adults were more likely to use CAMs than late middle-aged adults and older adults (p < 0.001). Overall, the major CAMs utilized to relieve psychological stress were music therapies (37.6%), massage (31.1%), spinal manipulation (25.1%), relaxing therapies (24.2%), and reading scriptures or The Bible (23.9%). Religion and vegetarian diets were the most important factors influencing participants to use CAMs, especially music therapies, massage, and reading scriptures/The Bible. Conclusions: CAM use was very prevalent among middle-aged adults in Taiwan; in particular, music therapies were the most favored activities for reducing stress. Population-specific mental health interventions using music can be developed to improve stress management outcomes during public health emergencies.
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Are Nutraceuticals Effective in COVID-19 and Post-COVID Prevention and Treatment? Foods 2022; 11:foods11182884. [PMID: 36141012 PMCID: PMC9498392 DOI: 10.3390/foods11182884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The beginning of the end or the end of the beginning? After two years mastered by coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, we are now witnessing a turnaround. The reduction of severe cases and deaths from COVID-19 led to increasing importance of a new disease called post-COVID syndrome. The term post-COVID is used to indicate permanency of symptoms in patients who have recovered from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Immune, antiviral, antimicrobial therapies, as well as ozone therapy have been used to treat COVID-19 disease. Vaccines have then become available and administered worldwide to prevent the insurgence of the disease. However, the pandemic is not over yet at all given the emergence of new omicron variants. New therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. In this view, great interest was found in nutraceutical products, including vitamins (C, D, and E), minerals (zinc), melatonin, probiotics, flavonoids (quercetin), and curcumin. This review summarizes the role of nutraceuticals in the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19 disease and post-COVID syndrome.
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Tsao TM, Hwang JS, Lin ST, Wu C, Tsai MJ, Su TC. Forest Bathing Is Better than Walking in Urban Park: Comparison of Cardiac and Vascular Function between Urban and Forest Parks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063451. [PMID: 35329139 PMCID: PMC8949865 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Forest bathing is beneficial for human health. To investigate whether walking in forest or urban parks affects cardiovascular functions (CVFs), the present study was conducted in five forest trails in the Xitou Experimental Forest and in five urban parks in Taipei city. We recruited 25 adult volunteers for an observational pilot study in forest parks (n = 14) and urban parks (n = 11). CVFs were assessed by measuring the arterial pressure waveform using an oscillometric blood pressure (BP) device. The baseline and paired differences of systolic BP (SBP), central end SBP, heart rate, left ventricle (LV) dP/dt max and cardiac output in participants were lower before and after walking in a forest park than those in an urban park. In addition, the systemic vascular compliance and brachial artery compliance of those who walked in a forest park were significantly higher compared with those in an urban park. Linear mixed models demonstrated lower levels of SBP by 5.22 mmHg, heart rate by 2.46 beats/min, and cardiac output by 0.52 L/min, and LV dP/dt max by 146.91 mmHg/s among those who walked in forest compared to those in an urban park after controlling covariates. This study provides evidence of the potential beneficial effects of walking exercise in forest parks on CVFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Ming Tsao
- The Experimental Forest, College of Bio-Resource and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Nantou 55750, Taiwan; (T.-M.T.); (S.-T.L.)
| | - Jing-Shiang Hwang
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan;
| | - Sung-Tsun Lin
- The Experimental Forest, College of Bio-Resource and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Nantou 55750, Taiwan; (T.-M.T.); (S.-T.L.)
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
| | - Charlene Wu
- Global Health Program, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei 10055, Taiwan;
| | - Ming-Jer Tsai
- The Experimental Forest, College of Bio-Resource and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Nantou 55750, Taiwan; (T.-M.T.); (S.-T.L.)
- School of Forestry and Resource Conservation, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (M.-J.T.); (T.-C.S.); Tel.: +886-223-123-456 (ext. 67187) (T.-C.S.)
| | - Ta-Chen Su
- The Experimental Forest, College of Bio-Resource and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Nantou 55750, Taiwan; (T.-M.T.); (S.-T.L.)
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100229, Taiwan
- Divisions of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100229, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (M.-J.T.); (T.-C.S.); Tel.: +886-223-123-456 (ext. 67187) (T.-C.S.)
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Xavier-Santos D, Padilha M, Fabiano GA, Vinderola G, Gomes Cruz A, Sivieri K, Costa Antunes AE. Evidences and perspectives of the use of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics as adjuvants for prevention and treatment of COVID-19: A bibliometric analysis and systematic review. Trends Food Sci Technol 2022; 120:174-192. [PMID: 35002079 PMCID: PMC8720301 DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease transmitted by the virus responsible for the severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which exhibit several clinical manifestations including gastrointestinal symptoms. SCOPE AND APPROACH This review aimed to provide insights and perspectives for the use of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics as adjuvants for prevention/treatment and/or modulation of the microbiota in COVID-19 patients. Eighty-four studies published in the Scopus database from the onset of the pandemic until December 2021 were assessed and submitted to a bibliometric analysis adapted from VOSviewer software. KEY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS Through bibliometric analysis, it might be suggested that the modulation of the gut/lung microbiome is promising as an adjuvant for the prevention/treatment of COVID-19 patients, due to immunomodulation properties related to probiotics and prebiotics. So far, few clinical studies involving the application of probiotics in COVID-19 patients have been completed, but reduction in the duration of the disease and the severity of symptoms as fatigue, olfactory dysfunction and breathlessness, nausea and vomiting and other gastrointestinal symptoms were some of the main findings. However, probiotics are not recommended to immunocompromised patients in corticosteroid therapy. The future perspectives point to the modulation of the intestinal microbiota by probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics represent a promising adjuvant approach for improving the health of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Xavier-Santos
- School of Applied Sciences (FCA), State University of Campinas, 1300 Pedro Zaccaria St, Zip Code 13484-350, Limeira, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina Padilha
- Department of Social and Applied Nutrition, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Zip Code 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Alexandre Fabiano
- School of Applied Sciences (FCA), State University of Campinas, 1300 Pedro Zaccaria St, Zip Code 13484-350, Limeira, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Vinderola
- Instituto de Lactología Industrial (INLAIN, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Ingeniería Química, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral, Santiago Del Estero 2829, Santa Fe, 3000, Argentina
| | - Adriano Gomes Cruz
- Department of Food, Federal Institute of Science and Technology of Rio de Janeiro (IFRJ), 121/125 Senador Furtado St, Zip Code 20270-021, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Katia Sivieri
- Department of Food and Nutrition, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara Jaú Km 1, Zip Code 14800-903, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriane Elisabete Costa Antunes
- School of Applied Sciences (FCA), State University of Campinas, 1300 Pedro Zaccaria St, Zip Code 13484-350, Limeira, SP, Brazil,Corresponding author
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Wang C, Han J. Will the COVID-19 pandemic end with the Delta and Omicron variants? ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:2215-2225. [PMID: 35069059 PMCID: PMC8760078 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01369-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqi Wang
- School of Human Settlements and Environmental Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Han
- School of Human Settlements and Environmental Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
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Choi H, Chatterjee P, Hwang M, Lichtfouse E, Sharma VK, Jinadatha C. The viral phoenix: enhanced infectivity and immunity evasion of SARS-CoV-2 variants. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:1539-1544. [PMID: 34522191 PMCID: PMC8428212 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 pandemic continues with emergence of new variants of concerns. These variants are fueling the third and fourth waves of pandemic across many nations. Here we describe the new emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 and why they have enhanced infectivity and possess the ability to evade immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosoon Choi
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, 1901 Veterans Memorial Drive, Temple, TX USA
| | - Piyali Chatterjee
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, 1901 Veterans Memorial Drive, Temple, TX USA
| | - Munok Hwang
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, 1901 Veterans Memorial Drive, Temple, TX USA
| | - Eric Lichtfouse
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, IRD, INRAE, CEREGE, Aix en Provence, 13100 France
| | - Virender K. Sharma
- Program of the Environment and Sustainability, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843 USA
| | - Chetan Jinadatha
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, 1901 Veterans Memorial Drive, Temple, TX USA
- College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77842-3012 USA
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Gilhen-Baker M, Roviello V, Beresford-Kroeger D, Roviello GN. Old growth forests and large old trees as critical organisms connecting ecosystems and human health. A review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:1529-1538. [PMID: 35002589 PMCID: PMC8728480 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01372-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Old forests containing ancient trees are essential ecosystems for life on earth. Mechanisms that happen both deep in the root systems and in the highest canopies ensure the viability of our planet. Old forests fix large quantities of atmospheric CO2, produce oxygen, create micro-climates and irreplaceable habitats, in sharp contrast to young forests and monoculture forests. The current intense logging activities induce rapid, adverse effects on our ecosystems and climate. Here we review large old trees with a focus on ecosystem preservation, climate issues, and therapeutic potential. We found that old forests continue to sequester carbon and fix nitrogen. Old trees control below-ground conditions that are essential for tree regeneration. Old forests create micro-climates that slow global warming and are irreplaceable habitats for many endangered species. Old trees produce phytochemicals with many biomedical properties. Old trees also host particular fungi with untapped medicinal potential, including the Agarikon, Fomitopsis officinalis, which is currently being tested against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Large old trees are an important part of our combined cultural heritage, providing people with aesthetic, symbolic, religious, and historical cues. Bringing their numerous environmental, oceanic, ecological, therapeutic, and socio-cultural benefits to the fore, and learning to appreciate old trees in a holistic manner could contribute to halting the worldwide decline of old-growth forests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Gilhen-Baker
- Faculty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Georgian State Teaching University of Physical Education and Sport, 49, Chavchavadze avenue, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Valentina Roviello
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering (DICMaPI), University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- Istituto Di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, IBB - CNR Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters, 80134 Naples, Italy
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Han S, Liu X. Can imported cold food cause COVID-19 recurrent outbreaks? A review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:119-129. [PMID: 34512224 PMCID: PMC8422046 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01312-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is still spreading all over the world. Although China quickly brought the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) under control in 2020, sporadic outbreaks have recurred from time to time. Outbreaks since June 2020 have suggested that the imported cold food supply chain is a major cause for the recurrence and spread of COVID-19. Here we review recurrent outbreaks in China from June 2020 to March 2021, and we analyse the main causes for recurrence and transmission by the supply of imported cold food from port to fork. Contaminated cold food or food packaging material can transmit the virus through 'person-to-thing-to-person', by contrast with the classical 'person-to-person' pathway. We decribe safety precautions for the food system, operating environment and people along the cold chain logistics. Surface disinfection and nucleic acid inspection are needed in each stage of the logistics of imported cold food supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilian Han
- School of Marketing and Logistics Management, Nanjing University of Finance & Economics, Nanjing, 210023 China
| | - Xinwang Liu
- School of Economics and Management, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189 China
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Roviello V, Gilhen-Baker M, Roviello GN, Lichtfouse E. River therapy. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:2729-2734. [PMID: 35069061 PMCID: PMC8761511 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01373-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Roviello
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering (DICMaPI), University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Melinda Gilhen-Baker
- Faculty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Georgian State Teaching University of Physical Education and Sport, 49, Chavchavadze avenue, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- IBB–CNR Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters, Istituto Di Biostrutture E Bioimmagini, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Eric Lichtfouse
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRA, CEREGE, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France
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A review of natural foods consumed during the COVID-19 pandemic life. POSTEP HIG MED DOSW 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/ahem-2022-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease that has brought life to a standstill around the world. Until a vaccine was found to combat COVID-19, the world conducted research and made recommendations for nutritional natural foods. Considering the risks incurred by contracting the disease, even though the production of various vaccines and vaccination of healthy people has started in some countries, individuals need useful foods to be ready for the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, nutrient contents such as antioxidant compounds, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that contribute to the immune system have been investigated. This paper attempts to determine the role of these dietary supplements in reducing the risk of COVID-19 and/or changing the course of the disease in COVID-19 patients and their effects on mortality. Supplements used and recommended for the COVID-19 pandemic life were investigated. In conclusion, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and antioxidants used during the COVID-19 pandemic to inhibit the effect of SARS-CoV-2. In order to overcome the new global crisis, nutritional cures and treatments should be upgraded. However, additional research on the subject is needed.
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Valsamatzi-Panagiotou A, Penchovsky R. Environmental factors influencing the transmission of the coronavirus 2019: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:1603-1610. [PMID: 35221835 PMCID: PMC8859930 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-022-01418-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus 2019 pandemic, induced by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has strongly altered healthcare systems and the economy worldwide. The lack of knowledge on this virus has led to the implementation of uncertain strategies and measures to fight the pandemic. Here, we review environmental factors that control viral transmission, such as air, temperature, humidity, food, water and sewage, insects, inanimate surfaces, hand hygiene, and social distancing. The main route of viral transmission is the respiratory tract through aerosols. Masks and social distancing are effective in ceasing air transmission. Proper cleaning of surfaces and hand disinfection are required, especially in healthcare units. Food should be handled properly, and food handlers should work based on hygienic protocols. Water and sewage transmission, and transmission through insects appear less important than other environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Valsamatzi-Panagiotou
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Robert Penchovsky
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
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Roviello V, Gilhen-Baker M, Vicidomini C, Roviello GN. Forest-bathing and physical activity as weapons against COVID-19: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:131-140. [PMID: 34566548 PMCID: PMC8453031 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01321-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Strengthening the immune system in order to better withstand the threat of COVID-19 is an important way to ensure the protection of our health against the current pandemic associated with SARS-CoV-2. There are many ways to achieve this, but with current circumstances, certain modalities stand out as being the most valid and are certainly worth greater consideration. Here we review the effects that particular immuno-strengthening activities can have on limiting the severity of COVID-19 disease as well as preventing virus infection. Physical activity, in particular, should not be discounted as an important method of prevention of viral diseases as it triggers many biological processes within the human body which in turn lead to heightened natural defences against viral infections. When exercise is performed in forested areas, these protective health benefits may be increased since many plant species emit biogenic volatile compounds (VOCs) which, when inhaled, have many protective properties. These VOCs have been shown in particular to have immunostimulatory effects on the human body and, thus, they could be of use in the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19. Being amongst trees may also help to alleviate stress and anxiety, lowering cortisol levels and consequently helping the proper functioning of the immune system. In the following work, we have performed an analysis of the available scientific literature which looks at the effects of physical exercise as well as 'forest-bathing' on the immune system's ability to fight disease, especially of course as it relates to COVID-19. Our review aims at shedding light on the benefits of exercising outdoors in green areas and suggests reforestation as a protective measure against future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Roviello
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering (DICMaPI), University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Melinda Gilhen-Baker
- Faculty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Georgian State Teaching University of Physical Education and Sport, 49, Chavchavadze avenue, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Caterina Vicidomini
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, IBB - CNR Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, IBB - CNR Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters, 80134 Naples, Italy
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16
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Roviello V, Roviello GN. Less COVID-19 deaths in southern and insular Italy explained by forest bathing, Mediterranean environment, and antiviral plant volatile organic compounds. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:7-17. [PMID: 34483793 PMCID: PMC8408569 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01309-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is causing major sanitary and socioeconomic issues, yet some locations are less impacted than others. While densely populated areas are likely to favor viral transmission, we hypothesize that other environmental factors could explain lower cases in some areas. We studied COVID-19 impact and population statistics in highly forested Mediterranean Italian regions versus some northern regions where the amount of trees per capita is much lower. We also evaluated the affinity of Mediterranean plant-emitted volatile organic compounds (VOCs) isoprene, α-pinene, linalool and limonene for COVID-19 protein targets by molecular docking modeling. Results show that while mean death number increased about 4 times from 2020 to 2021, the percentage of deaths per population (0.06-0.10%) was lower in the greener Mediterranean regions such as Sardinia, Calabria and Basilica versus northern regions with low forest coverage, such as Lombardy (0.33%) and Emilia Romagna (0.29%). Data also show that the pandemic severity cannot be explained solely by population density. Modeling reveals that plant organic compounds could bind and interfere with the complex formed by the receptor binding domain of the coronavirus spike protein with the human cell receptor. Overall, our findings are likely explained by sea proximity and mild climate, Mediterranean diet and the abundance of non-deciduous Mediterranean plants which emit immunomodulatory and antiviral compounds. Potential implications include 'forest bathing' as a therapeutic practice, designing nasal sprays containing plant volatile organic compounds, and preserving and increasing forest coverage. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10311-021-01309-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Roviello
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering (DICMaPI), University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- Istituto Di Biostrutture E Bioimmagini, IBB–CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Naples, Italy
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Kaczmarczyk LS, Marsay KS, Shevchenko S, Pilossof M, Levi N, Einat M, Oren M, Gerlitz G. Corona and polio viruses are sensitive to short pulses of W-band gyrotron radiation. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:3967-3972. [PMID: 34456659 PMCID: PMC8385265 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01300-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has raised the need of versatile means for virus decontamination. Millimeter waves are used in biochemical research in dynamic nuclear polarization enhanced nuclear magnetic resonance (DNP/NMR) spectroscopy. However, their efficiency in object decontamination for viruses has not been tested yet. Here we report the high efficiency of 95 GHz waves in killing both coronavirus 229E and poliovirus. An exposure of 2 s to 95 GHz waves reduced the titer of these viruses by 99.98% and 99.375%, respectively, and formed holes in the envelope of 229E virions as detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The ability of 95 GHz waves to reduce the coronavirus titer to a range of limited infective dose of SARS-CoV-2 for humans and animal models along with precise focusing capabilities for these waves suggest 95 GHz waves as an effective way to decontaminate objects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz S. Kaczmarczyk
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
- Ariel Center for Applied Cancer Research, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Katherine S. Marsay
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
| | - Sergey Shevchenko
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Moritz Pilossof
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Nehora Levi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
- Ariel Center for Applied Cancer Research, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Moshe Einat
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Matan Oren
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
| | - Gabi Gerlitz
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
- Ariel Center for Applied Cancer Research, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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18
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Ufnalska S, Lichtfouse E. Unanswered issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:3523-3524. [PMID: 33967659 PMCID: PMC8091989 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01249-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Ufnalska
- Honorary Member of European Association of Science Editors (EASE), Poznań, Poland
| | - Eric Lichtfouse
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, INRAE, Coll France, CEREGE, 13100 Aix en Provence, France
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19
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He S, Shao W, Han J. Have artificial lighting and noise pollution caused zoonosis and the COVID-19 pandemic? A review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:4021-4030. [PMID: 34366755 PMCID: PMC8325529 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01291-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Where did the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) come from? Did it spread to 'patient zero' through proactive human-animal contact? Why did humans faced an increasing number of zoonotic diseases in the past few decades? In this article, we propose a new theory by which human pollution such as artificial lighting and noise accentuate pathogen shedding from bats and other wild habitants in urban environments. This theory differs from the current hypothesis that wildlife trades and bushmeat consumption largely contribute to the spillover of zoonotic pathogens to humans. As natural reservoirs, bats harbor the greatest number of zoonotic viruses among all mammalian orders, while they also have a unique immune system to maintain functioning. Some bat species roost in proximity with human settlements, including urban communities and surrounding areas that are potentially most impacted by anthropogenic activities. We review the behavioral changes of wild habitants, including bats and other species, caused by environmental pollution such as artificial lighting and noise pollution, with focus on the spillover of zoonotic pathogens to humans. We found that there is a strong positive correlation between environmental stress and the behavior and health conditions of wild species, including bats. Specifically, artificial lighting attracts insectivorous bats to congregate around streetlights, resulting in changes in their diets and improved likelihood of close contact with humans and animals. Moreover, many bat species avoid lit areas by expending more energies on commuting and foraging. Noise pollution has similar effects on bat behavior. Bats exposed to chronic noise pollution have weakened immune functions, increased viral shedding, and declined immunity during pregnancy, lactation, and vulnerable periods due to noised-induced stress. Other wild species exposed to artificial lighting and noise pollution also show stress-induced behaviors and deteriorated health. Overall, evidence supports our hypothesis that artificial lighting and noise pollution have been overlooked as long-term contributors to the spillover of zoonotic pathogens to humans in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan He
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenyuan Shao
- School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Han
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
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20
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Kumawat M, Umapathi A, Lichtfouse E, Daima HK. Nanozymes to fight the COVID-19 and future pandemics. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:3951-3957. [PMID: 34031634 PMCID: PMC8134966 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01252-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Kumawat
- Amity Centre for Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine (ACNN), Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, 303002 Rajasthan India
| | - Akhela Umapathi
- Amity Centre for Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine (ACNN), Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, 303002 Rajasthan India
| | - Eric Lichtfouse
- CNRS, IRD, INRAE, Coll France, Aix-Marseille Université, 13100 Marseille, Aix‑en‑Provence France
| | - Hemant Kumar Daima
- Amity Centre for Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine (ACNN), Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, 303002 Rajasthan India
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