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Alizad G, Ayatollahi AA, Shariati Samani A, Samadizadeh S, Aghcheli B, Rajabi A, Nakstad B, Tahamtan A. Hematological and Biochemical Laboratory Parameters in COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Modeling Study of Severity and Mortality Predictors. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:7753631. [PMID: 38027038 PMCID: PMC10676280 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7753631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background It is well known that laboratory markers could help in identifying risk factors of severe illness and predicting outcomes of diseases. Here, we performed a retrospective modeling study of severity and mortality predictors of hematological and biochemical laboratory parameters in Iranian COVID-19 patients. Methods Data were obtained retrospectively from medical records of 564 confirmed Iranian COVID-19 cases. According to the disease severity, the patients were categorized into two groups (severe or nonsevere), and based on the outcome of the disease, patients were divided into two groups (recovered or deceased). Demographic and laboratory data were compared between groups, and statistical analyses were performed to define predictors of disease severity and mortality in the patients. Results The study identified a panel of hematological and biochemical markers associated with the severe outcome of COVID-19 and constructed different predictive models for severity and mortality. The disease severity and mortality rate were significantly higher in elderly inpatients, whereas gender was not a determining factor of the clinical outcome. Age-adjusted white blood cells (WBC), platelet cells (PLT), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCHC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (Cr) also showed high accuracy in predicting severe cases at the time of hospitalization, and logistic regression analysis suggested grouped hematological parameters (age, WBC, NLR, PLT, HGB, and international normalized ratio (INR)) and biochemical markers (age, BUN, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)) as the best models of combined laboratory predictors for severity and mortality. Conclusion The findings suggest that a panel of several routine laboratory parameters recorded on admission could be helpful for clinicians to predict and evaluate the risk of disease severity and mortality in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazaleh Alizad
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Ayatollahi
- Laboratory Sciences Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | | | - Saeed Samadizadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Bahman Aghcheli
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Environmental Health Research Center, Biostatistics & Epidemiology Department, Faculty of Health, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Britt Nakstad
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- School of International, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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2
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Zarei Ghobadi M, Emamzadeh R, Teymoori-Rad M, Afsaneh E. Exploration of blood−derived coding and non-coding RNA diagnostic immunological panels for COVID-19 through a co-expressed-based machine learning procedure. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1001070. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1001070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS- CoV-2) is the causative virus of the pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Evaluating the immunological factors and other implicated processes underlying the progression of COVID-19 is essential for the recognition and then the design of efficacious therapies. Therefore, we analyzed RNAseq data obtained from PBMCs of the COVID-19 patients to explore coding and non-coding RNA diagnostic immunological panels. For this purpose, we integrated multiple RNAseq data and analyzed them overall as well as by considering the state of disease including severe and non-severe conditions. Afterward, we utilized a co-expressed-based machine learning procedure comprising weighted-gene co-expression analysis and differential expression gene as filter phase and recursive feature elimination-support vector machine as wrapper phase. This procedure led to the identification of two modules containing 5 and 84 genes which are mostly involved in cell dysregulation and innate immune suppression, respectively. Moreover, the role of vitamin D in regulating some classifiers was highlighted. Further analysis disclosed the role of discriminant miRNAs including miR-197-3p, miR-150-5p, miR-340-5p, miR-122-5p, miR-1307-3p, miR-34a-5p, miR-98-5p and their target genes comprising GAN, VWC2, TNFRSF6B, and CHST3 in the metabolic pathways. These classifiers differentiate the final fate of infection toward severe or non-severe COVID-19. The identified classifier genes and miRNAs may help in the proper design of therapeutic procedures considering their involvement in the immune and metabolic pathways.
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Azzeri A, Ramlee MNA, Noor MIM, Jaafar MH, Rocmah TN, Dahlui M. Economic Burden of SARS-CoV-2 Patients with Multi-Morbidity: A Systematic Review Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13157. [PMID: 36293741 PMCID: PMC9603022 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Economic burden issues in SARS-CoV-2 patients with underlying co-morbidities are enormous resources for patient treatment and management. The uncertainty costs for clinical management render the healthcare system catatonic and incurs deficits in national annual budgets. This article focuses on systematic steps towards selecting and evaluating literature to uncover gaps and ways to help healthcare stakeholders optimize resources in treating and managing COVID-19 patients with multi-morbidity. A systematic review of all COVID-19 treatment procedures with co-morbidities or multi-morbidity for the period from 2019 to 2022 was conducted. The search includes studies describing treatment costs associated with multi- or co-morbidity cases for infected patients and, if concurrently reported, determining recurring expenses. Study selection will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Galbraith plots and I2 statistics will be deployed to assess heterogeneity and to identify potential sources. A backward elimination process will be applied in the regression modelling procedure. Based on the number of studies retrieved and their sample size, the subgroup analysis will be stratified on participant disease category, associated total costs, and degree of freedom in cost estimation. These studies were registered in the PROSPERO registry (ID: CRD42022323071).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirah Azzeri
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Science, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Persiaran Ilmu, Bandar Baru Nilai, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
- Department of Research Development and Innovation, University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur 59100, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Noor Afiq Ramlee
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Science, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Persiaran Ilmu, Bandar Baru Nilai, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
- Department of Research Development and Innovation, University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur 59100, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Iqbal Mohd Noor
- Faculty of Business Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) (Pahang), Raub 27600, Pahang, Malaysia
- Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Shah Alam 40450, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hafiz Jaafar
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Science, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Persiaran Ilmu, Bandar Baru Nilai, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
- Department of Research Development and Innovation, University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur 59100, Malaysia
| | - Thinni Nurul Rocmah
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
| | - Maznah Dahlui
- Department of Research Development and Innovation, University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur 59100, Malaysia
- Centre of Population Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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4
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HLA Allele Frequencies and Association with Severity of COVID-19 Infection in Northern Italian Patients. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111792. [PMID: 35681490 PMCID: PMC9179900 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111792] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
HLA allelic distribution was analysed in a cohort of 96 Northern Italian subjects (53M/43F) (mean age 59.9 ± 13.3 years) from Lombardy who developed COVID-19 during the first two pandemic waves to investigate possible correlations between HLA molecules and disease severity. An important role of HLA- B and HLA-C loci in modulating the clinical severity of COVID-19 disease was identified. In particular, the HLA-B07 supertype was observed to be associated with a significant risk for severe disease; conversely, the HLA-B27 supertype and C*12:02 allele played a protective role as they were associated with milder disease. These associations were confirmed after applying a multinomial regression analysis to adjust the correlation for age, gender and comorbidities with COVID-19 severity. Though the power of results is limited by the small sample size, data herein contribute to shedding light on the role played by genetic background in COVID-19 infection.
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5
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Behboudi E, Zeynali P, Hamidi-Sofiani V, Nakstad B, Tahamtan A. Transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) as a promising diagnostic approach for COVID-19. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2022; 22:395-397. [PMID: 35410554 PMCID: PMC9115779 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2022.2065194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emad Behboudi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Parisa Zeynali
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Metabolic Disorders Research Center, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Science, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Vahideh Hamidi-Sofiani
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Britt Nakstad
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.,Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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6
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Soltani-Zangbar MS, Mahmoodpoor A, Dolati S, Shamekh A, Valizadeh S, Yousefi M, Sanaie S. Serum levels of vitamin D and immune system function in patients with COVID-19 admitted to intensive care unit. GENE REPORTS 2022; 26:101509. [PMID: 35071823 PMCID: PMC8761022 DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2022.101509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective Vitamin D is believed to affect the functionality of the immune system for the prevention of coronavirus disease. To investigate the role of this vitamin against the Coronavirus, this study analyzed the serum levels of vitamin D, the transcription pattern of inflammatory cytokines, and the frequency of total lymphocytes, TCD4+, TCD8+, and NK cells in 50 COVID-19-affected subjects in comparison to 50 healthy participants. Materials and methods This study diagnosed and evaluated 100 patients. Frequency of lymphocytes was determined using flow cytometry. Cytokine expression levels were measured using Real-Time PCR. Serum levels of vitamin D and cytokines levels in cultured cell supernatant were measured by ELISA. Results Patients with COVID-19 exhibited decreased serum levels of vitamin D versus the healthy participants (p = 0.0024). The total number of lymphocytes, TCD4+, TCD8+, and NK cells was significantly reduced in patients with COVID-19 (p < 0.0001). Considerable upregulation of IL-12, IFN-γ, and TNF-α was seen in COVID-19 patients compared to the control group, whereas IFN-α was downregulated in COVID-19 patients. ELISA results also had increased levels of IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-γ (p = 0.0014, 0.0012, and p < 0.0001, respectively), and decreased level of IFN-α (p = 0.0021) in patients with COVID-19 compared to the control group. Conclusion These findings suggest a probable association among vitamin D concentrations, immune system function, and risk of COVID-19 infection. As a result, it is recommended that vitamin D be considered as a candidate for handling and controlling COVID-19 because of its ability to target the cytokine storm and its antiviral effects.
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7
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Khamees A, Bani-Issa J, Zoubi MSA, Qasem T, AbuAlArjah MI, Alawadin SA, Al-Shami K, Hussein FE, Hussein E, Bashayreh IH, Tambuwala MM, Al-Saghir M, Cornelison CT. SARS-CoV-2 and Coronavirus Disease Mitigation: Treatment Options, Vaccinations and Variants. Pathogens 2022; 11:275. [PMID: 35215217 PMCID: PMC8876838 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is caused by a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), which was declared as a pandemic after it emerged in China 2019. A vast international effort has been conducted to prevent and treat COVID-19 due to its high transmissibility and severe morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in individuals with chronic co-morbidities. In addition, polymorphic variants increased the need for proper vaccination to overcome the infectivity of new variants that are emerging across the globe. Many treatment options have been proposed and more than 25 vaccines are in various stages of development; however, the infection peaks are oscillating periodically, which raises a significant question about the effectiveness of the prevention measures and the persistence of this pandemic disease. In this review, we are exploring the most recent knowledge and advances in the treatment and vaccination options as well as the new emerging variants of 2019-nCoV and the possible mitigation of one of the most aggressive pandemics in the last centuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almu’atasim Khamees
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (A.K.); (J.B.-I.); (K.A.-S.); (F.E.H.)
| | - Jamal Bani-Issa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (A.K.); (J.B.-I.); (K.A.-S.); (F.E.H.)
| | - Mazhar Salim Al Zoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (M.S.A.Z.); (T.Q.); (M.I.A.)
| | - Taqwa Qasem
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (M.S.A.Z.); (T.Q.); (M.I.A.)
| | - Manal Issam AbuAlArjah
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (M.S.A.Z.); (T.Q.); (M.I.A.)
| | | | - Khayry Al-Shami
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (A.K.); (J.B.-I.); (K.A.-S.); (F.E.H.)
| | - Farah E. Hussein
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; (A.K.); (J.B.-I.); (K.A.-S.); (F.E.H.)
| | - Emad Hussein
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, A’Sharqiyah University, P.O. Box 42, Ibra 400, Oman;
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Ibrahim H. Bashayreh
- Nursing Department, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Al-Ain Campus, P.O. Box 24162, Abu-Dhabi 31201, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Murtaza M. Tambuwala
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK;
| | - Mohannad Al-Saghir
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Zanesville, OH 43701, USA;
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Najafinejad M, Cheraghali F, Aghcheli B, Rajabi A, Barati L, Naziri H, Gharib MH, Tabarraei A, Nakstad B, Tahamtan A. COVID-19 in Pediatrics: Demographic, Clinical, Laboratory, and Radiological Characteristics of Infected Patients With SARS-CoV-2. Front Pediatr 2022; 9:808187. [PMID: 35096716 PMCID: PMC8793734 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.808187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 disease usually leads to mild infectious disease in children, but some develop serious complications. Here, we describe the characteristics of children with COVID-19 in northern Iran, the Golestan province. Ninety-one confirmed cases were enrolled in the study, aged 0-18 years. Demographic, clinical, comorbidity, laboratory, and radiological data were compared based on the disease severity (admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) or not) and disease outcome (recovered or deceased). Sixteen (17.5%) cases were hospitalized in ICU, and 8/91 (8.8%) deceased. Fever and cough were the most common clinical symptoms. Among all symptoms notified there were no significant differences between severe and milder cases, or between those who deceased and recovered. Failure to thrive (FTT), malignant disease and neurological disease were significantly more prevalent in severe cases as was frequently reported comorbidities. Laterality, ground-glass opacity, and lung consolidation were the most common findings in chest computed tomography. The data confirms that the COVID-19 disease has various presentations in children, and clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings may help predict the development of severe forms of COVID-19 among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Najafinejad
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Cheraghali
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Bahman Aghcheli
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Environmental Health Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Leila Barati
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Hamed Naziri
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hadi Gharib
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, 5th Azar Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Britt Nakstad
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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9
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Aghcheli B, Behboudi E, Tabarraei A, Razavi Nikoo H, Rajabi A, Moradi A, Nakstad B, Tahamtan A. Serum cytokine/chemokine profile and clinical/paraclinical data in COVID-19 deceased and recovered patients. EUR J INFLAMM 2022. [PMCID: PMC9445632 DOI: 10.1177/1721727x221125436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The induction of an intense immune response and cytokine
storm is proposed to be central in the pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory
syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The study evaluated serum
cytokine/chemokine profiles, and clinical and paraclinical data of COVID-19
deceased and recovered patients in Iran. Methods: The severity of
disease, clinical data, and routine laboratory and inflammatory
cytokine/chemokine responses were retrospectively explored in 60 in-hospital
patients in northern Iran. Characteristics of those who deceased
(n = 30) were compared to recovered (n =
30), and associations with serum levels of potential disease regulating pro- and
anti-inflammatory mediators were studied. Results: The serum levels
of IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, IP-10,
MIP1-α, MCP1, RANTES, and TNF-α were upregulated in all COVID-19 patients when
compared to healthy and gender-matched individuals (n = 30).
Although with no significant difference between deceased and recovered cases,
the serum levels of all cytokines/chemokines tended to be higher in the severely
diseased non-surviving patients. Association analyses revealed that all
cytokine/chemokine levels (except IL-10) significantly affect the disease
outcome. Conclusion: This study provides more evidence for the
association of cytokine/chemokine levels with the clinical course and outcome of
COVID-19. More studies are needed to consider this measurement as an indicator
of disease stage and strategy for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahman Aghcheli
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Emad Behboudi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Hadi Razavi Nikoo
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Environmental Health Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Abdolvahab Moradi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Britt Nakstad
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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10
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Cheraghali F, Barati L, Amanian D, Shahkar L, Najafinejad M, Naziri H, Shahabi S, Tabarraei A, Tahamtan A. A case series of pediatric COVID-19 with complicated symptoms in Iran. Future Virol 2021. [PMID: 34650617 PMCID: PMC8500461 DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2021-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
People in different age groups are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection as a newly emerging virus. However, the clinical course, symptoms and disease outcome vary from case to case. Although COVID-19 is usually milder in children than adults, some studies reported nonspecific symptoms. Here, we report eight pediatric cases of COVID-19 admitted in the Taleghani Children Hospital in Gorgan city, north of Iran, with complicated symptoms. The current case series poses several challenges to the pediatricians regarding the pediatric cases of COVID-19. As most literature relating to adults are not always transferable to children, clinicians should be warned about such presentations among children with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Cheraghali
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Leila Barati
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Dayan Amanian
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Lobat Shahkar
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Maryam Najafinejad
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Hamed Naziri
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Somayeh Shahabi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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11
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Rastegar M, Samadizadeh S, Yasaghi M, Moradi A, Tabarraei A, Salimi V, Tahamtan A. Functional variation (Q63R) in the cannabinoid CB2 receptor may affect the severity of COVID-19: a human study and molecular docking. Arch Virol 2021; 166:3117-3126. [PMID: 34514519 PMCID: PMC8435402 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05223-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Evidence supports a role of host genetic diversity in the clinical course of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Variation in the cannabinoid CB2 receptor gene (CNR2) could affect the regulatory action of endocannabinoids on the immune system, resulting in an increased risk of various inflammatory diseases. The present study investigated the relationship between the CNR2-Q63R variant and COVID-19 severity. A total of 200 Iranian COVID-19 patients were enrolled in the study and genotyped using a TaqMan assay. The co-dominant, dominant, recessive, over-dominant, and additive inheritance models were analyzed using SNPStats software. In silico molecular docking was also performed to simulate the effects of the Q63R variation on CB2 binding with a ligand and with the G-protein. A significant difference in the Q63R allele and genotype distribution was found between expired and discharged COVID-19 patients in co-dominant, recessive, and additive inheritance models. The molecular docking results showed that the predicted structure of mutant CB2 (63R type) could not bind to the G-protein in the correct position. The data indicated that the Q63R variation in the CNR2 gene may affect the severity of COVID-19. Identification of genes related to susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 may lead to specific targets for drug repurposing or development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Rastegar
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Saeed Samadizadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yasaghi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Abdolvahab Moradi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Vahid Salimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran. .,Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
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12
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Ayatollahi AA, Aghcheli B, Amini A, Nikbakht H, Ghassemzadehpirsala P, Behboudi E, Rajabi A, Tahamtan A. Association between blood groups and COVID-19 outcome in Iranian patients. Future Virol 2021; 16:10.2217/fvl-2021-0090. [PMID: 34589135 PMCID: PMC8462120 DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2021-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aim: Many factors have been speculated to explain the COVID-19 complex clinical phenotype. Due to the inconsistent data published on blood groups and COVID-19, we conducted a study on Iranian patients to further assess this association. Materials & methods: This retrospective study was conducted on data collected from confirmed COVID-19 hospitalized patients during March and December 2020 in a referral hospital for COVID-19, 5 Azar Hospital, Gorgan, north of Iran. A total of 1554 confirmed COVID-19 cases were enrolled in the study with blood group (ABO and Rh), demographic, and clinical data available. Results: Of 1554 patients, 1267 and 287 cases had recovered and deceased (due to COVID-19) outcomes, respectively. Most of the cases had O+ (29.6%), the least number had AB- (0.5%), and most of the deceased cases had O+ blood types (31.4%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that groups A- and B- had higher and groups B+, AB+, O+ and O- had lower odds of death than the A+ group. Conclusion: This study indicates that blood types may be related to the clinical outcome of COVID-19. Further studies with a large cohort for multiple people are required to validate this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Asghar Ayatollahi
- Laboratory Sciences Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174513, Iran
| | - Bahman Aghcheli
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174515, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Amini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174516, Iran
| | - Hasan Nikbakht
- Faculty of Medical, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174515, Iran
| | | | - Emad Behboudi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174515, Iran
| | - Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Biostatistics & Epidemiology Department, Faculty of Health, Environmental Health Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174518, Iran
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174515, Iran
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, 4934174510, Iran
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13
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Hashemi SMA, Thijssen M, Hosseini SY, Tabarraei A, Pourkarim MR, Sarvari J. Human gene polymorphisms and their possible impact on the clinical outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Arch Virol 2021; 166:2089-2108. [PMID: 33934196 PMCID: PMC8088757 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05070-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has become one of the most serious health concerns globally. Although multiple vaccines have recently been approved for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), an effective treatment is still lacking. Our knowledge of the pathogenicity of this virus is still incomplete. Studies have revealed that viral factors such as the viral load, duration of exposure to the virus, and viral mutations are important variables in COVID-19 outcome. Furthermore, host factors, including age, health condition, co-morbidities, and genetic background, might also be involved in clinical manifestations and infection outcome. This review focuses on the importance of variations in the host genetic background and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. We will discuss the significance of polymorphisms in the ACE-2, TMPRSS2, vitamin D receptor, vitamin D binding protein, CD147, glucose-regulated protein 78 kDa, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), neuropilin-1, heme oxygenase, apolipoprotein L1, vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1 (VKORC1), and immune system genes for the clinical outcome of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Ali Hashemi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Marijn Thijssen
- Laboratory for Clinical and Epidemiological Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Seyed Younes Hosseini
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Pourkarim
- Laboratory for Clinical and Epidemiological Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Health Policy Research Centre, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jamal Sarvari
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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14
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Spicuzza L, Sanna A. Continuum of care for patients with obstructive sleep apnea after one year from the COVID-19 pandemic onset: no time for further delays: practical issues for a safe and effective management. Sleep Med 2021; 84:98-106. [PMID: 34144451 PMCID: PMC8166158 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2021.05.026] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Since the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic onset, many routine medical activities have been put on hold and this has deeply affected the management of patients with chronic diseases such as obstructive sleep apnea. Untreated OSA is associated with increased mortality and difficulties in social functioning. A delay in initiating treatment may therefore have harmful consequences. Between February and April 2020, the so-called first wave of the pandemic, the overall activity of sleep centers in Europe was reduced by 80%. As the international infection control authorities released guidelines for SARS-CoV-2 outbreak control, many of the national sleep societies provided strategies for a gradual re-opening of sleep facilities. Most of these strategies were not evidences-based and, in a climate of general concern, worldwide it was strongly advised to post-pone any non-urgent sleep-related procedure. Despite the initial idea that the outbreak could be transient, after one year it is still ongoing and the price we are paying, not only includes deaths caused by COVID-19, but also deaths caused by missed or late diagnosis. As further delays in diagnosing and treating patients with sleep apnea are no more acceptable, a new arrangement of sleep facilities and resources, in order to operate safely and effectively, is now mandatory. In this article, we review most recent literature and guidelines in order to provide practical advice for a new arrangement of sleep laboratories and the care of patients with obstructive sleep apnea after one year from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Spicuzza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Sanna
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro - Pneumology and Bronchial Endoscopy Unit, San Giuseppe Hospital, Empoli, FI, Italy
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15
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Al-Masaeed M, Alghawanmeh M, Al-Singlawi A, Alsababha R, Alqudah M. An Examination of COVID-19 Medications' Effectiveness in Managing and Treating COVID-19 Patients: A Comparative Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:557. [PMID: 34068474 PMCID: PMC8151388 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9050557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The review seeks to shed light on the administered and recommended COVID-19 treatment medications through an evaluation of their efficacy. Methods: Data were collected from key databases, including Scopus, Medline, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. Other platforms included WHO and FDA publications. The review's literature search was guided by the WHO solidarity clinical trials for COVID-19 scope and trial-assessment parameters. Results: The findings indicate that the use of antiretroviral drugs as an early treatment for COVID-19 patients has been useful. It has reduced hospital time, hastened the clinical cure period, delayed and reduced the need for mechanical and invasive ventilation, and reduced mortality rates. The use of vitamins, minerals, and supplements has been linked to increased immunity and thus offering the body a fighting chance. Nevertheless, antibiotics do not correlate with improving patients' wellbeing and are highly discouraged from the developed clinical trials. Conclusions: The review demonstrates the need for additional clinical trials with a randomized, extensive sample base and over a more extended period to examine the potential side effects of the medications administered. Critically, the findings underscore the need for vaccination as the only viable medication to limit the SARS-CoV-2 virus spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Al-Masaeed
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia;
| | | | | | - Rawan Alsababha
- School of nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2560, Australia;
| | - Muhammad Alqudah
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia;
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16
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Samadizadeh S, Masoudi M, Rastegar M, Salimi V, Shahbaz MB, Tahamtan A. COVID-19: Why does disease severity vary among individuals? Respir Med 2021; 180:106356. [PMID: 33713961 PMCID: PMC7934673 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2021.106356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is responsible for the current pandemic, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). While all people are susceptible to the SARS-CoV-2 infection, the nature and severity of the disease vary significantly among individuals and populations. Importantly, reported disease burdens and case fatality rates differ considerably from country to country. There are, however, still uncertainties about the severity of the disease among individuals or the reason behind a more severe disease in some cases. There is a strong possibility that the severity of this disease depends on a complicated interaction between the host, virus, and environment, which leads to different clinical outcomes. The objective of this article is to point out the essential influential factors related to the host, virus, and environment affecting the clinical outcome of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Samadizadeh
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Maha Masoudi
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mostafa Rastegar
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Vahid Salimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Bataghva Shahbaz
- Roberts Research Institute and School of Biomedical Engineering, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
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17
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Kumar S, Singh R, Kumari N, Karmakar S, Behera M, Siddiqui AJ, Rajput VD, Minkina T, Bauddh K, Kumar N. Current understanding of the influence of environmental factors on SARS-CoV-2 transmission, persistence, and infectivity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:6267-6288. [PMID: 33387315 PMCID: PMC7776306 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12165-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a significant public health emergency in recent times. It is a respiratory illness caused by the novel virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was initially reported in late December 2019. In a span of 6 months, this pandemic spread across the globe leading to high morbidity and mortality rates. Soon after the identification of the causative virus, questions concerning the impact of environmental factors on the dissemination and transmission of the virus, its persistence in environmental matrices, and infectivity potential begin to emerge. As the environmental factors could have far-reaching consequences on infection dissemination and severity, it is essential to understand the linkage between these factors and the COVID-19 outbreak. In order to improve our current understanding over this topic, the present article summarizes topical and substantial observations made regarding the influences of abiotic environmental factors such as climate, temperature, humidity, wind speed, air, and water quality, solid surfaces/interfaces, frozen food, and biotic factors like age, sex, gender, blood type, population density, behavioural characteristics, etc. on the transmission, persistence, and infectivity of this newly recognized SARS-CoV-2 virus. Further, the potential pathways of virus transmission that could pose risk to population health have been discussed, and the critical areas have been identified which merits urgent research for the assessment and management of the COVID-19 outbreak. Where possible, the knowledge gaps requiring further investigation have been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Kumar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi, 835205, Jharkhand, India
| | - Ritu Singh
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Earth Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, Rajasthan, India.
| | - Nisha Kumari
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Earth Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, Rajasthan, India
| | - Susmita Karmakar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi, 835205, Jharkhand, India
| | - Monalisha Behera
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Earth Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, Rajasthan, India
| | - Arif Jamal Siddiqui
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hail, Hail, PO Box 2440, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vishnu D Rajput
- Academy of Biology and Biotechnology, Southern Federal University, Stachki 194/1, Rostov-on-Don, 344090, Russia
| | - Tatiana Minkina
- Academy of Biology and Biotechnology, Southern Federal University, Stachki 194/1, Rostov-on-Don, 344090, Russia
| | - Kuldeep Bauddh
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi, 835205, Jharkhand, India
| | - Narendra Kumar
- Department of Environmental Science, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, 226025, Uttar Pradesh, India
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18
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Cheraghali F, Tahamtan A, Hosseini SA, Gharib MH, Moradi A, Razavi Nikoo H, Tabarraei A. Case Report: Detection of SARS-CoV-2 From Cerebrospinal Fluid in a 34-Month-Old Child With Encephalitis. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:565778. [PMID: 33959568 PMCID: PMC8093448 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.565778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2: SARS-CoV-2), which arose from Wuhan, China, has rapidly spread to other countries and developed into a pandemic. Although the respiratory manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 are well-documented, there is a considerable challenge regarding the direct and/or indirect infection in other organs. Several preliminary reports confirmed neurological manifestations in the SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. Here, we report the detection of SARS-CoV-2 from the nasopharyngeal swab and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a 34-month-old child with encephalitis. This finding expands the spectrum of the neurological manifestations associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Cheraghali
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alireza Tahamtan
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Hosseini
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Taleghani Children's Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hadi Gharib
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, 5th Azar Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Abdolvahab Moradi
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Hadi Razavi Nikoo
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alijan Tabarraei
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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19
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Teng X, Li Q, Li Z, Zhang Y, Niu G, Xiao J, Yu J, Zhang Z, Song S. Compositional Variability and Mutation Spectra of Monophyletic SARS-CoV-2 Clades. GENOMICS, PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2020; 18:648-663. [PMID: 33581339 PMCID: PMC7875716 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpb.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 and its causative pathogen SARS-CoV-2 have rushed the world into a staggering pandemic in a few months, and a global fight against both has been intensifying. Here, we describe an analysis procedure where genome composition and its variables are related, through the genetic code to molecular mechanisms, based on understanding of RNA replication and its feedback loop from mutation to viral proteome sequence fraternity including effective sites on the replicase-transcriptase complex. Our analysis starts with primary sequence information, identity-based phylogeny based on 22,051 SARS-CoV-2 sequences, and evaluation of sequence variation patterns as mutation spectra and its 12 permutations among organized clades. All are tailored to two key mechanisms: strand-biased and function-associated mutations. Our findings are listed as follows: 1) The most dominant mutation is C-to-U permutation, whose abundant second-codon-position counts alter amino acid composition toward higher molecular weight and lower hydrophobicity, albeit assumed most slightly deleterious. 2) The second abundance group includes three negative-strand mutations (U-to-C, A-to-G, and G-to-A) and a positive-strand mutation (G-to-U) due to DNA repair mechanisms after cellular abasic events. 3) A clade-associated biased mutation trend is found attributable to elevated level of negative-sense strand synthesis. 4) Within-clade permutation variation is very informative for associating non-synonymous mutations and viral proteome changes. These findings demand a platform where emerging mutations are mapped onto mostly subtle but fast-adjusting viral proteomes and transcriptomes, to provide biological and clinical information after logical convergence for effective pharmaceutical and diagnostic applications. Such actions are in desperate need, especially in the middle of the War against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xufei Teng
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qianpeng Li
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhao Li
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuansheng Zhang
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guangyi Niu
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jingfa Xiao
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jun Yu
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Zhang Zhang
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Shuhui Song
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China; National Genomics Data Center & CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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20
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Gomides A, Ferreira G, Kakehasi A, Lacerda M, Marques C, Mota L, Paiva E, Pileggi G, Provenza J, Reis-Neto E, Sampaio V, Xavier R, Pinheiro M. Impact of Chronic Use of Antimalarials on SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients With Immune-Mediated Rheumatic Diseases: Protocol for a Multicentric Observational Cohort Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e23532. [PMID: 32924956 PMCID: PMC7575340 DOI: 10.2196/23532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, has brought extensive challenges to the scientific community in recent months. Several studies have been undertaken in an attempt to minimize the impact of the disease worldwide. Although new knowledge has been quickly disseminated, including viral mechanisms, pathophysiology, and clinical findings, there is a lack of information on the effective pharmacological management of this disease. In vitro studies have shown some benefits related to the use of antimalarials (chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine) for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2. However, the data from open clinical trials on COVID-19 patients are controversial. Objective We present the protocol for a research project that compares the potential protective effect of antimalarials in preventing moderate-to-severe forms of COVID-19 in two groups: (1) patients treated chronically with antimalarials for rheumatic diseases and (2) other members of the patients’ household who have not been diagnosed with rheumatic diseases and are not taking antimalarials. Methods This is a 24-week, prospective, observational cohort study comprising patients from public and private health services across Brazil, who chronically use antimalarials for the treatment of immune-mediated rheumatic diseases, osteoarthritis, or chikungunya-related arthropathy. A total of six sequential phone interviews were scheduled during the COVID-19 outbreak in five different regions of Brazil. Information regarding social, epidemiological, and demographic data, as well as details about rheumatic diseases, antimalarials, comorbidities, and concomitant medication, is being recorded using a specific online form in the REDCap database. Symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, including fever, cough, dyspnea, anosmia, and dysgeusia, are being self-reported and collected via phone interviews. Our main outcomes are hospitalization, need of intensive care unit, and death. Results Recruitment began at the end of March 2020, and the inclusion was done during an 8-week period (from March 29 to May 17) with a total of 10,443 individuals enrolled at baseline, 5166 of whom have rheumatic diseases, from 23 tertiary rheumatology centers across 97 Brazilian cities. Data analysis is scheduled to begin after all inclusion data have been collected. Conclusions This study, which includes a large sample of chronic antimalarial users, will allow us to explore whether SARS-CoV-2 infection may be associated with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases and long-term antimalarial usage. Trial Registration Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials RBR–9KTWX6; http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-9ktwx6/ International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/23532
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gomides
- University Center of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Gilda Ferreira
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Licia Mota
- University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - José Provenza
- Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ricardo Xavier
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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21
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Teymoori-Rad M, Marashi SM. Vitamin D and Covid-19: From potential therapeutic effects to unanswered questions. Rev Med Virol 2020; 31:e2159. [PMID: 32856339 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that vitamin D supplementation could potentially be effective either in treatment or prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). Indeed, several studies and trials have begun to investigate the impact of vitamin D supplementation on patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In this review, we focus on the potential mechanisms of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of Covid-19. We consider whether deficiency of vitamin D may be one of the underlying biological factors that could explain the excess mortality seen among non-Caucasians. We also raise several important questions which need to be addressed to provide a clear picture of the extent to which vitamin D supplementation may benefit patients with Covid-19, particularly those with underlying risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Teymoori-Rad
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayed Mahdi Marashi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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22
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Eshrati B, Baradaran HR, Erfanpoor S, Mohazzab A, Moradi Y. Investigating the factors affecting the survival rate in patients with COVID-19: A retrospective cohort study. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2020; 34:88. [PMID: 33306063 PMCID: PMC7711041 DOI: 10.34171/mjiri.34.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: As hospitalized patients with COVID-19, especially those who are admitted to ICU or die afterwards, generally have comorbidities, the aim of this study was to determine the factors affecting the survival rate of COVID-19 patients in Iran using a retrospective cohort. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients with COVID-19 who referred to medical centers under the supervision of Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, from February 22 to March 25, 2020. The final date of follow-up was April 19, 2020. All consecutive inpatients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were included in this study. Clinical laboratory, radiological, treatment, and demographic data were collected and analyzed. The associations among gender, immune disease, diabetes, liver disease, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, chronic pulmonary disease, cancer, chronic nervous disease, type of treatment, and risk of death were analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier and Log-rank tests were used to estimate survival rate and compare survival rates, respectively. Results: The total number of deaths or desired event in the study was 329 (10.3%).The risk of death in the age groups of 50-60 years, 60-70 years, and >70 years compared to the 30-40 age group was 2.17 (95% CI: 1.03, 4.55; p: 0.040); 3.72 (95 % CI: 1.80, 7.68; p: 0.001) and 5.09 (95 % CI: 2.49, 10.40; p: 0.001), respectively. The results showed men had 11.5% more risk of deaths than women (HR: 1.11; 95 % CI: 0.89, 1.39; p: 0.341). Kidney disease increased the risk of death by 52.3% in these patients, which was not statistically significant (HR: 1.78; 95 % CI: 1.04, 3.04; p: 0.035). Also, chronic pulmonary diseases and diabetes increased the risk of death in COVID-19 patients by 89.5% and 41.3% compared to COVID-19 patients without chronic pulmonary diseases and diabetes [(HR: 1.89; 95 % CI: 1.17, 3.04; p: 0.008), (HR: 1.41; 95 % CI: 1.01, 1.96; p: 0.038)]. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, more attention and care should be paid to COVID-19 patients with underlying diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and kidney disease to reduce the number of deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Eshrati
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Baradaran
- Endocrine Research Center, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Ageing Clinical & Experimental Research Team, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, UK
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Erfanpoor
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Mohazzab
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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