1
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Liu L. Study on the spatial decomposition of the infection probability of COVID-19. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13258. [PMID: 37582929 PMCID: PMC10427675 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40307-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In the course of our observations of the transmission of COVID-19 around the world, we perceived substantial concern about imported cases versus cases of local transmission. This study, therefore, tries to isolate cases due to local transmission (also called community spread) from those due to externally introduced COVID-19 infection, which can be key to understanding the spread pattern of the pandemic. In particular, we offer a probabilistic perspective to estimate the scale of the outbreak at the epicenter of the COVID-19 epidemic with an environmental focus. First, this study proposes a novel explanation of the probability of COVID-19 cases in the local population of the target city, in which the chain of probability is based on the assumption of independent distribution. Then it conducts a spatial statistical analysis on the spread of COVID-19, using two model specifications to identify the spatial dependence, more commonly known as the spillover effect. The results are found to have strong spatial dependence. Finally, it confirms the significance of residential waste in the transmission of COVID-19, which indicates that the fight against COVID-19 requires us to pay close attention to environmental factors. The method shown in this study is critical and has high practical value, because it can be easily applied elsewhere and to other future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- School of Economics, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, 555 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan, China.
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2
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Arfaeinia H, Ghaemi M, Jahantigh A, Soleimani F, Hashemi H. Secondhand and thirdhand smoke: a review on chemical contents, exposure routes, and protective strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-28128-1. [PMID: 37306877 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28128-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Secondhand smoke (SHS: a mixture of sidestream and mainstream smoke) and thirdhand smoke (THS: made up of the pollutants that settle indoors after smoking in closed environments) are a significant public health concern. SHS and THS contain various chemicals which can be released into the air or settle on surfaces. At present, the hazards of SHS and THS are not as well documented. In this review, we describe the chemical contents of THS and SHS, exposure routes, vulnerable groups, health effects, and protective strategies. The literature search was conducted for published papers on September 2022 in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. This review could provide a comprehensive understanding of the chemical contents of THS and SHS, exposure routes, vulnerable groups, health effects, protective strategies, and future researches on environmental tobacco smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Arfaeinia
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghaemi
- Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science, No. 3, Etemadzadeh St., Fatemi Ave, Tehran, 1411813389, Iran
| | - Anis Jahantigh
- Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Farshid Soleimani
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
| | - Hassan Hashemi
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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3
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Effects on Health of Passive Smoking and Vape on Terraces in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review. OPEN RESPIRATORY ARCHIVES 2022. [PMID: 37496956 PMCID: PMC9467932 DOI: 10.1016/j.opresp.2022.100204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The health damage caused by passive smoking is well known in closed public spaces such as workplaces, inside homes and restaurants. However, at present, the number of smokers in open public spaces such as terraces has increased and consequently a loss of the quality of the air breathed, increasing the concentration of particles and other contaminating agents, affecting the health of workers and customers, of these spaces. Multiple studies show that high exposure to tobacco smoke in these environments augments the risk of developing cardiorespiratory diseases, especially in the vulnerable population, but also respiratory infections. Tobacco smoke can be an excellent vehicle for transmitting viral particles, favoring coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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4
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Benowitz NL, Goniewicz ML, Halpern-Felsher B, Krishnan-Sarin S, Ling PM, O'Connor RJ, Pentz MA, Robertson RM, Bhatnagar A. Tobacco product use and the risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19: current understanding and recommendations for future research. THE LANCET. RESPIRATORY MEDICINE 2022; 10:900-915. [PMID: 35985357 PMCID: PMC9381032 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-2600(22)00182-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Heterogeneity in the clinical presentation of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 progression underscores the urgent need to identify individual-level susceptibility factors that affect infection vulnerability and disease severity. Tobacco product use is a potential susceptibility factor. In this Personal View, we provide an overview of the findings of peer-reviewed, published studies relating tobacco product use to SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 outcomes, with most studies focusing on cigarette smoking in adults. Findings pertaining to the effects of tobacco product use on the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection are inconsistent. However, evidence supports a role for cigarette smoking in increasing the risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes, including hospital admission, progression in disease severity, and COVID-19-related mortality. We discuss the potential effects of tobacco use behaviour on SARS-CoV-2 transmission and infection, and highlight the pathophysiological changes associated with cigarette smoking that could promote SARS-CoV-2 infection and increased disease severity. We consider the biological mechanisms by which nicotine and other tobacco product constituents might affect immune and inflammatory responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Finally, we identify current knowledge gaps and suggest priorities for research to address acute and post-acute health outcomes of COVID-19 during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal L Benowitz
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maciej L Goniewicz
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Pamela M Ling
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Richard J O'Connor
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Mary Ann Pentz
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rose Marie Robertson
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Aruni Bhatnagar
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
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Urrutia-Pereira M, Chong-Neto HJ, Annesi Maesano I, Ansotegui IJ, Caraballo L, Cecchi L, Galán C, López JF, Aguttes MM, Peden D, Pomés A, Zakzuk J, Rosário Filho NA, D'Amato G. Environmental contributions to the interactions of COVID-19 and asthma: A secondary publication and update. World Allergy Organ J 2022; 15:100686. [PMID: 35966894 PMCID: PMC9359502 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2022.100686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
An outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) started in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China and quickly spread around the world. Current evidence is contradictory on the association of asthma with COVID-19 and associated severe outcomes. Type 2 inflammation may reduce the risk for severe COVID-19. Whether asthma diagnosis may be a risk factor for severe COVID-19, especially for those with severe disease or non-allergic phenotypes, deserves further attention and clarification. In addition, COVID-19 does not appear to provoke asthma exacerbations, and asthma therapeutics should be continued for patients with exposure to COVID-19. Changes in the intensity of pollinization, an earlier start and extension of the pollinating season, and the increase in production and allergenicity of pollen are known direct effects that air pollution has on physical, chemical, and biological properties of the pollen grains. They are influenced and triggered by meteorological variables that could partially explain the effect on COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 is capable of persisting in the environment and can be transported by bioaerosols which can further influence its transmission rate and seasonality. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the behavior of adults and children globally. A general trend during the pandemic has been human isolation indoors due to school lockdowns and loss of job or implementation of virtual work at home. A consequence of this behavior change would presumably be changes in indoor allergen exposures and reduction of inhaled outdoor allergens. Therefore, lockdowns during the pandemic might have improved some specific allergies, while worsening others, depending on the housing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Herberto Jose Chong-Neto
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Isabella Annesi Maesano
- French NIH (INSERM), and EPAR Department, IPLESP, INSERM and Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | | | - Luis Caraballo
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Lorenzo Cecchi
- Centre of Bioclimatology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,SOS Allergy and Clinical Immunology, USL Toscana Centro, Prato, Italy
| | - Carmen Galán
- Department of Botany, Ecology and Plant Physiology, International Campus of Excellence on Agrifood (ceiA3), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Felipe López
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | | | - David Peden
- UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Anna Pomés
- Basic Research, Indoor Biotechnologies, Inc, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Josefina Zakzuk
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | | | - Gennaro D'Amato
- Division of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases, High Specialty Hospital A. Cardarelli, School of Specialization in Respiratory Diseases, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Li J, Martinez MC, Frosch DL, Matt GE. Effects of Smoking on SARS-CoV-2 Positivity: A Study of a Large Health System in Northern and Central California. Tob Use Insights 2022; 15:1179173X221114799. [PMID: 35966408 PMCID: PMC9373122 DOI: 10.1177/1179173x221114799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 continues to impact vulnerable populations disproportionally. Identifying
modifiable risk factors could lead to targeted interventions to reduce infections. The
purpose of this study is to identify risk factors for testing positive for
SARS-CoV-2. Methods Using electronic health records collected from a large ambulatory care system in
northern and central California, the study identified patients who had a test for
SARS-CoV-2 between 2/20/2020 and 3/31/2021. The adjusted effect of active and passive
smoking and other risk factors on the probability of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2
were estimated using multivariable logistic regression. Analyses were conducted in
2021. Results Of 556 690 eligible patients in our sample, 70 564 (12.7%) patients tested positive for
SARS-CoV-2. Younger age, being male, racial/ethnic minorities, and having mild major
comorbidities were significantly associated with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test. Current
smokers (adjusted OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.66-0.73) and former smokers (adjusted OR: 0.92,
95% CI: 0.89-0.95) were less likely than nonsmokers to be lab-confirmed positive, but no
statistically significant differences were found when comparing passive smokers with
non-smokers. The patients with missing smoking status (25.7%) were more likely to be
members of vulnerable populations with major comorbidities (adjusted OR ranges from
severe: 2.52, 95% CI = 2.36-2.69 to mild: 3.28, 95% CI = 3.09-3.48), lower income
(adjusted OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.85-0.86), aged 80 years or older (adjusted OR: 1.11, 95%
CI: 1.07-1.16), have less access to primary care (adjusted OR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.07-0.07),
and identify as racial ethnic minorities (adjusted OR ranges from Hispanic: 1.61, 95% CI
= 1.56-1.65 to Non-Hispanic Black: 2.60, 95% CI = 2.5-2.69). Conclusions Our findings suggest that the odds of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 were
significantly lower in smokers compared to nonsmokers. Other risk factors include
missing data on smoking status, being under 18, being male, being a racial/ethnic
minority, and having mild major comorbidities. Since those with missing data on smoking
status were more likely to be members of vulnerable populations with higher smoking
rates, the risk of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 among smokers may have been
underestimated due to missing data on smoking status. Future studies should investigate
the risk of severe outcomes among active and passive smokers, the role that exposure to
tobacco smoke constitutes among nonsmokers, the role of comorbidities in COVID-19
disease course, and health disparities experienced by disadvantaged groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Li
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Center for Health Systems Research, Sutter Health, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Meghan C Martinez
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Center for Health Systems Research, Sutter Health, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Dominick L Frosch
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Center for Health Systems Research, Sutter Health, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Georg E Matt
- College of Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
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7
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Andalib E, Faghani M, Heidari M, Tabari Khomeiran R. Design of vestibules as transitional spaces in infection control: Necessity of working space changes to cope with communicable infections. Work 2022; 72:1227-1238. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-210216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: After the spread of infectious diseases, people stay at home as a shelter space to be safe and sound. Current homes and work spaces have shown not to be a good environment for health and hygiene. During different crises of infectious diseases, architects and designers analyze the needs for change and evolve of environments to achieve a suitable design that prevents the spread of pathogens. OBJECTIVES: This proper design should help improve people’s living standards and mental health in terms of functionality and environmental psychology. METHODS: In the traditional architecture of some countries, such as Canada, Japan, and Iran, the vestibule has provided some possibility of separating the external and internal space. The design of the intermediate space with the appropriate scale of today’s buildings at the entrance can create a filter between the indoor and outdoor environments by dividing these spaces. RESULTS: The use of intermediate space by modern technology can prevent the transfer of viral infection into the interior of the building. This can be done by removing the virus from clothes, changing or covering shoes, disinfecting equipment, separating infected items, and creating proper ventilation in the intermediate space so that microorganisms cannot be transferred into the safe environment. CONCLUSIONS: In this paper, we looked at the architectural design in a new light to have a healthier life and more security, by inspiration of the patterns in traditional architecture and the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Andalib
- Research Center of Health and Environment, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
- Department of Design, Faculty of Fine Art, Music and Design, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Masoumeh Faghani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Heidari
- Research Center of Health and Environment, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
- Department of Occupational Health and safety Engineering, School of Health, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Rasoul Tabari Khomeiran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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8
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Villagrán Olivares MC, Benito JG, Uñac RO, Vidales AM. Kinetic Monte Carlo method applied to micrometric particle detachment mechanisms by aerodynamic forces. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2021; 34:074001. [PMID: 34736240 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac3690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The formulation of a kinetic Monte Carlo simulation to account for the different possible mechanisms present in the problem of resuspension of aerosol particles is addressed as an extension of a former model Benitoet al(2016J. Aerosol Sci.10026-37). The re-entrainment of micrometer particles to airflow when detached from a surface by aerodynamic forces is modeled using the similitude of the problem with the desorption process from heterogeneous surfaces. Depending on the relative role of the intervening forces, three main mechanisms for movement initiation can be present:rolling,slidingandlifting-off. Three different transition probabilities are defined for each mechanism and the corresponding transition rates calculated for the kinetic process to be simulated. The decisive factor for the development of the model is to set an appropriate dynamical hierarchy to simulate correctly the evolution of the transition rates as the airflow velocity increases, reflecting the stochastic nature of the process, not always fully captured by other Monte Carlo approaches. The model is applied to spherical and elongated particles on a flat surface, reproducing qualitatively well the experimental trends found by other authors for the case of particles with different shapes. It is also demonstrated that, for elongated particles, the main mechanism assisting the detachment is not rolling but sliding, underscoring the need for an adequate choice of the particles shape and detachment mechanism when looking for the critical conditions for particle removal from surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela C Villagrán Olivares
- INFAP, CONICET, Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Físico Matemáticas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, D5700HHW, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Jesica G Benito
- INFAP, CONICET, Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Físico Matemáticas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, D5700HHW, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo O Uñac
- INFAP, CONICET, Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Físico Matemáticas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, D5700HHW, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Ana M Vidales
- INFAP, CONICET, Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Físico Matemáticas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, D5700HHW, San Luis, Argentina
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Vaping and COVID-19 Risk: Perceived link and its correlates among at-risk adolescents. Prev Med Rep 2021; 24:101598. [PMID: 34660184 PMCID: PMC8503971 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Research shows that a significant number of adolescents and young adults quit vaping or reduced the amount of nicotine consumed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a lack of evidence on adolescent risk perceptions regarding the link between vaping and susceptibility to contracting COVID-19. This study examined the level of perceived COVID-19 risk due to vaping among at-risk adolescents. A sample (N = 1,251) of adolescents aged 13 to 17 and susceptible to future vaping were recruited through Qualtrics to participate in an online survey. More than two thirds of the sample (68.34%) reported that vaping would increase one’s risk of contracting COVID-19. Ordinal logistic regression showed that this risk perception was positively associated with perceived prevalence of vaping among peers (AOR = 1.186, 95%CI = 1.019–1.382) and prior exposure to vaping product advertising (AOR = 1.371, 95%CI = 1.221–1.539), and negatively associated with past 30-day vaping (AOR = 0.579, 95%CI = 0.406-0.825) and number of closest friends who vaped (AOR = 0.873, 95%CI = 0.779-0.978). Further analysis stratified by past 30-day vaping showed that, among those who vaped in the past 30 days, vaping-related covid risk perception was positively associated with susceptibility to future vaping (AOR = 1.562, 95%CI = 1.161–2.101) and sensation-seeking (AOR = 1.212, 95%CI = 1.003–1.463). These results are open to different interpretations because of the cross-sectional nature of the data. Additional research is needed to better understand the observed relationships and their implications for vaping prevention during the pandemic.
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Ramírez González N. Thirdhand Smoke: A Ubiquitous Hidden Threat in Pandemic Times. Arch Bronconeumol 2021; 57:569-570. [PMID: 35698932 DOI: 10.1016/j.arbr.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Ramírez González
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili, Tarragona, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili, DEEEiA, Tarragona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Madrid, Spain.
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11
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Liu H, Chen H. The effects of thirdhand smoke on reproductive health. J Appl Toxicol 2021; 42:172-179. [PMID: 34462936 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco smoke is an environmental pollutant that can cause follicle destruction and oocyte dysfunction. Thirdhand smoke (THS) is residual tobacco smoke existing in the environment long after cigarettes have been extinguished, which can react with other environmental compounds to produce secondary pollutants. THS contains a variety of toxic and harmful chemicals, such as nicotine and 1-(N-methyl-N-nitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridinyl)-4-butanal (NNA), a logical biomarker of THS exposure. The health hazards of THS exposure and its components have been researched in recent years. In this review, we have summarized research progress on the effects of THS exposure on organs in mice and humans especially on the reproductive system. This review may help evaluate the health risks of THS, in particular reproduction and offspring health. We hope this review will guide public health education on the dangers of THS exposure and promotion of healthy living habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huage Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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12
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Modeling Aerial Transmission of Pathogens (Including the SARS-CoV-2 Virus) through Aerosol Emissions from E-Cigarettes. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11146355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
We examine the plausibility of aerial transmission of pathogens (including the SARS-CoV-2 virus) through respiratory droplets that might be carried by exhaled e-cigarette aerosol (ECA). Given the lack of empiric evidence on this phenomenon, we consider available evidence on cigarette smoking and respiratory droplet emission from mouth breathing through a mouthpiece as convenient proxies to infer the capacity of vaping to transport pathogens in respiratory droplets. Since both exhaled droplets and ECA droplets are within the Stokes regime, the ECA flow acts effectively as a visual tracer of the expiratory flow. To infer quantitatively the direct exposure distance, we consider a model that approximates exhaled ECA flow as an axially symmetric intermittent steady starting jet evolving into an unstable puff, an evolution that we corroborate by comparison with photographs and videos of actual vapers. On the grounds of all this theoretical modeling, we estimate for low-intensity vaping (practiced by 80–90% of vapers) the emission of 6–210 (median 39.9, median deviation 67.3) respiratory submicron droplets per puff and a horizontal distance spread of 1–2 m, with intense vaping possibly emitting up to 1000 droplets per puff in the submicron range with a distance spread over 2 m. The optical visibility of the ECA flow has important safety implications, as bystanders become instinctively aware of the scope and distance of possible direct contagion through the vaping jet.
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13
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Khan TR, Parker DS, Withers C. Mitigation of Airborne Contaminant Spread through Simple Interventions in an Occupied Single-Family Home. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5880. [PMID: 34070834 PMCID: PMC8197807 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Historically, reducing aerosol-based transmission of respired viruses in indoor environments has been of importance for controlling influenza viruses and common-cold rhinoviruses. The present public health emergency associated with SARS-CoV-2 makes this topic critically important. Yet to be tested is the potential effectiveness of simple interventions that create an isolation zone (IZ) for a suspected/confirmed sick or sensitive person requiring quarantine. The intent in existing homes is to find a practical means to mitigate exposure to airborne contaminants. In creating an IZ in an occupied single-family home in the study, four simple strategies were tested. The test configurations were: (1) IZ windows closed with IZ bathroom exhaust ventilation fan off, (2) IZ windows closed with IZ exhaust fan on, (3) IZ window open with IZ exhaust fan off, and (4) IZ window open with IZ exhaust fan on. Incense-generated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was used as a marker for virus transmission. The measured transfer of PM2.5 from the IZ into the main zone (MZ) of the house enabled us to determine the relative effectiveness of four containment strategies. Collectively, the data from pressure differential (across zones) and PM2.5 measurements suggested that the best containment strategy was achieved through continuously operating the bathroom exhaust fan while keeping the windows closed in the IZ (configuration 2). Interventions using open windows were found to be less reliable, due to variability in wind speed and direction, resulting in an unpredictable and sometimes detrimental pressure differential in the IZ with reference to MZ. Our findings strongly suggest a simple IZ exhaust ventilation strategy has the potential for mitigating the risk from the airborne spread of contaminants, such as SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvir R. Khan
- FSEC Energy Research Center, University of Central Florida, Cocoa, FL 32922, USA; (D.S.P.); (C.W.)
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Patel M, Chaubey AK, Pittman CU, Mlsna T, Mohan D. Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in the environment: Occurrence, persistence, analysis in aquatic systems and possible management. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 765:142698. [PMID: 33097261 PMCID: PMC7531938 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The year 2020 brought the news of the emergence of a new respiratory disease (COVID-19) from Wuhan, China. The disease is now a global pandemic and is caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2 by international bodies. Important viral transmission sources include human contact, respiratory droplets and aerosols, and through contact with contaminated objects. However, viral shedding in feces and urine by COVID-19-afflicted patients raises concerns about SARS-CoV-2 entering aquatic systems. Recently, targeted SARS-CoV-2 genome fragments have been successfully detected in wastewater, sewage sludge and river waters around the world. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) studies can provide early detection and assessment of COVID-19 transmission and the growth of active cases within given wastewater catchment areas. WBE surveillance's ability to detect the growth of cases was demonstrated. Was this science applied throughout the world as this pandemic spread throughout the globe? Wastewater treatment efficacy for SARS-CoV-2 removal and risk assessments associated with treated water are reported. Disinfection strategies using chemical disinfectants, heat and radiation for deactivating and destroying SARS-CoV-2 are explained. Analytical methods of SARS-CoV-2 detection are covered. This review provides a more complete overview of the present status of SARS-CoV-2 and its consequences in aquatic systems. So far, WBE programs have not yet served to provide the early alerts to authorities that they have the potential to achieve. This would be desirable in order to activate broad public health measures at earlier stages of local and regional stages of transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manvendra Patel
- School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | | | - Charles U Pittman
- Department of Chemistry, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Todd Mlsna
- Department of Chemistry, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Dinesh Mohan
- School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
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15
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Ramírez González N. Thirdhand Smoke: A Ubiquitous Hidden Threat in Pandemic Times. Arch Bronconeumol 2021; 57:S0300-2896(21)00030-2. [PMID: 33736892 DOI: 10.1016/j.arbres.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Ramírez González
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili, Tarragona, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili, DEEEiA, Tarragona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Madrid, Spain.
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16
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Sussman RA, Golberstein E, Polosa R. Aerial Transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus through Environmental E-Cigarette Aerosols: Implications for Public Policies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1437. [PMID: 33546515 PMCID: PMC7913611 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We discuss the implications of possible contagion of COVID-19 through e-cigarette aerosol (ECA) for prevention and mitigation strategies during the current pandemic. This is a relevant issue when millions of vapers (and smokers) must remain under indoor confinement and/or share public outdoor spaces with non-users. The fact that the respiratory flow associated with vaping is visible (as opposed to other respiratory activities) clearly delineates a safety distance of 1-2 m along the exhaled jet to prevent direct exposure. Vaping is a relatively infrequent and intermittent respiratory activity for which we infer a mean emission rate of 79.82 droplets per puff (6-200, standard deviation 74.66) comparable to mouth breathing, it adds into shared indoor spaces (home and restaurant scenarios) a 1% extra risk of indirect COVID-19 contagion with respect to a "control case" of existing unavoidable risk from continuous breathing. As a comparative reference, this added relative risk increases to 44-176% for speaking 6-24 min per hour and 260% for coughing every 2 min. Mechanical ventilation decreases absolute emission levels but keeps the same relative risks. As long as direct exposure to the visible exhaled jet is avoided, wearing of face masks effectively protects bystanders and keeps risk estimates very low. As a consequence, protection from possible COVID-19 contagion through vaping emissions does not require extra interventions besides the standard recommendations to the general population: keeping a social separation distance of 2 m and wearing of face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto A. Sussman
- Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Riccardo Polosa
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction (CoEHAR), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
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17
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Chen B, Jia P, Han J. Role of indoor aerosols for COVID-19 viral transmission: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:1953-1970. [PMID: 33462543 PMCID: PMC7805572 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-020-01174-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between outdoor atmospheric pollution by particulate matter and the morbidity and mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections was recently disclosed, yet the role of indoor aerosols is poorly known . Since people spend most of their time indoor, indoor aerosols are closer to human occupants than outdoors, thus favoring airborne transmission of COVID-19. Therefore, here we review the characteristics of aerosol particles emitted from indoor sources, and how exposure to particles affects human respiratory infections and transport of airborne pathogens. We found that tobacco smoking, cooking, vacuum cleaning, laser printing, burning candles, mosquito coils and incenses generate large quantities of particles, mostly in the ultrafine range below 100 nm. These tiny particles stay airborne, are deposited in the deeper regions of human airways and are difficult to be removed by the respiratory system. As a consequence, adverse effects can be induced by inhaled aerosol particles via oxidative stress and inflammation. Early epidemiological evidence and animal studies have revealed the adverse effects of particle exposure in respiratory infections. In particular, inhaled particles can impair human respiratory systems and immune functions, and induce the upregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, thus inducing higher vulnerability to COVID-19 infection. Moreover, co-production of inflammation mediators by COVID-19 infection and particle exposure magnifies the cytokine storm and aggravates symptoms in patients. We also discuss the role of indoor aerosol particles as virus carriers. Although many hypotheses were proposed, there is still few knowledge on interactions between aerosol articles and virus-laden droplets or droplet nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Chen
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000 People’s Republic of China
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Puqi Jia
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Han
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
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18
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He S, Han J. Electrostatic fine particles emitted from laser printers as potential vectors for airborne transmission of COVID-19. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:17-24. [PMID: 32837484 PMCID: PMC7413220 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-020-01069-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected more than 14 million people globally. Recently, airborne transmission has been postulated to be a major contributor to the spread of the novel coronavirus, especially in enclosed public spaces. While many studies have demonstrated positive correlations between atmospheric pollutants and SARS-CoV-2 infection, the impact of indoor air pollutants on airborne transmission has been largely overlooked. In particular, laser printers are a primary source of particle emission that increases the concentrations of particulate matter in indoor atmosphere by releasing substantial quantities of electrostatic fine particles, at rates comparable with tobacco smoking and incense burning. We hypothesized that particles emitted from laser printers present a potential risk factor for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in offices and other indoor environments with high user occupancy. To test this hypothesis, we reviewed recent knowledge on the characteristics of particles emitted by laser printing, including their emission rates and accumulation in indoor air, electrostatic charges, localized emission and subsequent particle diffusion in relation to the human breathing zone. We then discuss the potential impact on the transmission of SAR-CoV-2 in indoor spaces. We found that emission rates from laser printers ranged from 108 to 1012 particles min-1, and these fine particles typically remain suspended for prolonged periods in indoor air. Electrostatic charges carried by these particles can reach 260-379 e per particle, thus enhancing their surface adsorption and deposition in human airways. Localized emission by laser printers and subsequent diffusion highly increase particle concentrations near the human breathing zone.
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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
| | - Jie Han
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
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19
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Sun S, Li J, Han J. How human thermal plume influences near-human transport of respiratory droplets and airborne particles: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:1971-1982. [PMID: 33495695 PMCID: PMC7817963 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-020-01178-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
With mounting evidence and notable cases of large clustered infections, airborne transmission via droplets and particles has been recently acknowledged as an effective mode of transmission for COVID-19. How droplets and aerosol particles disperse are being transported into the human breathing zone-the last few inches for airborne transmission to effectuate-remains a key question which has been widely overlooked. Human thermal plume refers to the constantly rising airflows around the boundary layer of human body due to persisting temperature gradients between the body surfaces and the ambient air. Ample evidence indicated that the thermal plume controls the dispersion and transport of aerosols in the human microenvironment. Given that in calm indoor environments most air inhaled by human comes from the boundary layer where thermal plume flows through constantly, the role of thermal plume needs to be scrutinized to predict the diffusion of droplets, aerosols and other airborne carriers of the novel coronavirus around the human body for prioritizing infection control strategies. Here, we assessed the potential influences of the thermal plume on the transmission of COVID-19 and other airborne pathogens by reviewing the most pertinent evidence and analyzing key variables in the formation of thermal plume in indoor environments, e.g., ambient temperature, human posture and type of clothing. Our reviewed evidence and data indicate that the human thermal plume should facilitate the airborne transmission of COVID-19 in enclosed spaces by elevating small droplets and airborne particles into the breathing zone from lower regions and ascending respiratory droplets from the sources into the upper atmosphere. By drawing attention to aerosol transport dynamics in the human microenvironment, these insights may be useful for understanding COVID-19 transmission in enclosed spaces, especially those intended for public use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Sun
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 China
| | - Jie Han
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 China
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20
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Fillingham P, Vaddi RS, Bruning A, Israel G, Novosselov IV. Drag, lift, and torque on a prolate spheroid resting on a smooth surface in a linear shear flow. POWDER TECHNOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2020.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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21
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Chennakesavulu K, Reddy GR. The effect of latitude and PM 2.5 on spreading of SARS-CoV-2 in tropical and temperate zone countries. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 266:115176. [PMID: 32683090 PMCID: PMC7334144 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The present work describes spreading of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) at the tropical and temperate zones which are explained based on insolation energy, Particulate Matter (PM2.5), latitude, temperature, humidity, Population Density (PD), Human Development Index (HDI) and Global Health Security Index (GHSI) parameters. In order to analyze the spreading of SARS-CoV-2 by statistical data based on the confirmed positive cases which are collected between December 31, 2019 to April 25, 2020. The present analysis reveals that the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in the major countries lie on the Equator is 78,509 cases, the countries lie on the Tropic of Cancer is 62,930 cases (excluding China) and the countries lie on the Tropic of Capricorn is 22,842 cases. The tropical countries, which comes between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn is reported to be 1,77,877 cases. The temperate zone countries, which are above and below the tropical countries are reported to be 25,66,171 cases so, the pandemic analysis describes the correlation between latitude, temperate zones, PM2.5 and local environmental factors. Hence, the temperature plays a pivotal role in the spreading of coronavirus at below 20 °C. The spreading of SARS-CoV-2 cases in Northern and Southern Hemispheres has inverse order against absorption of insolated energy. In temperate zone countries, the concentration of PM2.5 at below 20 μg/m3 has higher spreading rate of SARS-CoV-2 cases. The effect of insolation energy and PM2.5, it is confirmed that the spreading of SARS-CoV-2 is explained by dumb-bell model and solid/liquid interface formation mechanism. The present meta-analysis also focuses on the impact of GHSI, HDI, PD and PM2.5 on spreading of SARS-CoV-2 cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chennakesavulu
- Department of Chemistry, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University), Jeppiaar Nagar, Rajiv Gandhi Road, Chennai, 600119, India; Centre for Nano Science and Nano Technology, International Research Centre, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University), Jeppiaar Nagar, Rajiv Gandhi Road, Chennai, 600119, India.
| | - G Ramanjaneya Reddy
- Centre for Nano Science and Nano Technology, International Research Centre, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University), Jeppiaar Nagar, Rajiv Gandhi Road, Chennai, 600119, India.
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