Emerging mutation in SARS-CoV-2 spike: Widening distribution over time in different geographic areas

COVID-19 in 16 West African Countries: An Assessment of the Epidemiology and Genetic Diversity of SARS-CoV-2 after Four Epidemic Waves

West Africa faced the COVID-19 pandemic in early March 2020 and, as of March 31, 2022, had more than 900,000 confirmed cases and more than 12,000 deaths. During this period, SARS-CoV-2 genomes evolved genetically, resulting in the emergence of distinct lineages. This review was conducted to provide the epidemiological profile of COVID-19, the mutational profile of SARS-CoV-2, and the dynamics of its lineages in the 16 west African countries by analyzing data from 33 studies and seven situation reports. For a more complete representation of the epidemiology and genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2, we used reliable public data in addition to eligible studies. As of March 31, 2022, the 16 west African countries experienced four epidemic waves with variable intensities. Higher mortality was noted during the third wave with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 1.9%. After these four epidemic waves, Liberia recorded the highest CFR (4.0%), whereas Benin had the lowest CFR (0.6%). Through mutational analysis, a high genetic heterogeneity of the genomes was observed, with a predominance of mutations in the spike protein. From this high mutational rate, different lineages emerged. Our analysis of the evolutionary diversity allowed us to count 205 lineages circulating in west Africa. This study has provided a good representation of the mutational profile and the prevalence of SARS CoV-2 lineages beyond the knowledge of the global epidemiology of the 16 African countries.

Small and mighty - microRNAs pulling the strings

The current issue of Biomedical Journal gives an insight into the influence miRNAs have in myocardial injury, and in hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore the association between dysmobility syndrome and vertebral fractures is assessed, the role of doxycycline in schistosomiasis is elucidated, and the effect of stress on the blood-brain barrier is examined. An article proving the accuracy of Taiwan's largest medical record databank is presented, as well as a potential biomarker for Parkinson's. Risk factors for recurrence of papillary thyroid cancer are identified, the outcome of reirradiation in oral squamous cell carcinoma is investigated, and the post-surgery outcomes in cases of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis are reviewed. Finally this issue contains two articles about COVID-19, one describes the potential neurological damage left after the infection, and the second article analysis the outcome of uptake in vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.

Quantifying Aerosol Generation in Maxillofacial Trauma Repair Techniques

Study Design

Cadaveric simulation study.

Objective

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which can be transmitted via aerosolized viral particles, has directed focus on protection of healthcare workers during procedures involving the upper aerodigestive tract, including maxillofacial trauma repair. This study evaluates particle generation at different distances from open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of maxillofacial injuries in the intraoperative setting to reduce the risk of contracting airborne diseases such as COVID-19.

Methods

Two cadaveric specimens in a simulated operating room underwent ORIF of midface and mandible fractures via intraoral incisions as well as maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) using hybrid arch bars. ORIF was performed with both self-drilling screws and with the use of a power drill for creating guide holes. Real-time aerosol concentration was measured throughout each procedure using 3 particle counters placed 0.45, 1.68, and 3.81 m (1.5, 5.5, and 12.5 feet, respectively) from the operative site.

Results

There was a significant decrease in particle concentration in all procedures at 1.68 m compared to 0.45 m, but only 2 of the 5 procedures showed further significant decrease in particle concentration when going from 1.68 to 3.81 m from the operative site. There was significantly less particle concentration generated at all distances when using self-drilling techniques compared to power drilling for ORIF.

Conclusions

Consideration of using self-drilling screwing techniques as well as maintaining physical distancing protocols may decrease risk of transmission of airborne diseases such as COVID-19 while in the intraoperative setting.

Greek gods and the double-edged sword of liver regeneration

In the current issue of the Biomedical Journal we gain an insight into the regeneration of liver tissue and how an over-the-counter supplement, stem cells and two plant extracts counteract liver damage. Furthermore the advances against hepatitis C virus are presented, the role of long non-coding RNA elucidated as well as the potential of an adhesion G protein-coupled receptor. In another contribution, the definition and evolutionary impact of copy number variants is clarified. Also, the polymorphism of a scaffolding caspase is investigated. We furthermore learn about the relation between SARS-CoV2 mutants in dependence of geography and explore the challenges of telemedicine in a complex healthcare field. A novel approach to engineering artificial grafts is presented, the challenges of total knee arthroplasty discussed as well as a possible mean of sinus floor elevation for dental implants. At last the concept of flipped classroom is scrutinized in terms of usefulness for a hospital in Taiwan.