1
|
Kajihara T, Yahara K, Kamigaki T, Hirabayashi A, Hosaka Y, Kitamura N, Shimbashi R, Suzuki M, Sugai M, Shibayama K. Effects of coronavirus disease 2019 on the spread of respiratory-transmitted human-to-human bacteria. J Infect 2024; 89:106201. [PMID: 38897241 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2024.106201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has necessitated significant changes in medical systems, social behaviours, and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). We aimed to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on changes in the epidemiology of respiratory-transmitted bacteria that have been unexplored. METHODS We utilised a comprehensive national surveillance database from 2018 to 2021 to compare monthly number of patients with four respiratory-transmitted human-to-human bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pyogenes) before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, stratified by specimen sources and age groups. RESULTS The incidence of detected patients with S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and S. pyogenes from both respiratory and blood cultures significantly decreased from 2019 to 2020. In 2021, the incidence of detected patients with the respiratory-transmitted bacterial species, except for S. pyogenes, from respiratory cultures, increased again from April to July, primarily affecting the 0-4-year age group. CONCLUSIONS Our comprehensive national surveillance data analysis demonstrates the dynamic changes and effects of NPIs on respiratory-transmitted bacteria during the COVID-19 pandemic, with variations observed among species, specimen sources, and age groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshiki Kajihara
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan; Center for Surveillance, Immunization, and Epidemiologic Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Koji Yahara
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taro Kamigaki
- Center for Surveillance, Immunization, and Epidemiologic Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aki Hirabayashi
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yumiko Hosaka
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norikazu Kitamura
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reiko Shimbashi
- Center for Surveillance, Immunization, and Epidemiologic Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motoi Suzuki
- Center for Surveillance, Immunization, and Epidemiologic Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Sugai
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keigo Shibayama
- Department of Bacteriology/Drug Resistance and Pathogenesis, Nagoya University, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Madhusoodanan V, Suarez Arbelaez MC, Evans A, Raymo A, Ghomeshi A, Hernandez B, Towe M, Ramasamy R. Does time of intraoperative exposure to the aerobiome increase microbial growth on inflatable penile prostheses? Int J Impot Res 2024:10.1038/s41443-024-00906-6. [PMID: 38839903 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-024-00906-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) implantation is a surgical approach for the management of erectile dysfunction (ED). A feared complication is IPP infection, and increased operative time is a risk factor for infection. Exposure of an IPP implant to ambient air in the operating room (OR aerobiome) is thought to contribute to risk of infection from increased operative time, but this is not well-supported. The objective of this study was to evaluate if exposure to the OR aerobiome increased microbial colonization of IPPs. This was an ex vivo study using an uncoated IPP, observing standard surgical sterility and OR conditions. A sterile swab was collected every 30 min for 3 h from each IPP component. Positive controls consisted of swabs exposed to unprepped scrotal skin during in-office vasectomies. All swabs underwent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and next generation sequencing (NGS). Bioinformatic processing was carried out and taxonomic assignment was performed. No microbial growth was detected on any component of the IPPs at any time point, while positive control swabs all detected various skin flora, including bacterial and fungal growth. These findings suggest that exposure to the OR aerobiome does not increase the risk of IPP microbial colonization, at least within a 3-hour period. Further in vivo studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinayak Madhusoodanan
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | | | - Aymara Evans
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Adele Raymo
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Armin Ghomeshi
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Beatriz Hernandez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Maxwell Towe
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Moura CRF, Garcia BCC, de Oliveira Ottone V, Brito PL, Silva TJ, Cantuária VL, de Oliveira DB, Rocha-Vieira E. SARS-CoV-2 genome incidence on the inanimate surface of the material used in the flow of biological samples from the collection point to the testing unit. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:1369-1375. [PMID: 37882949 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite the undeniable effect of vaccination against COVID-19 in reducing disease severity, there is still a need to monitor and limit SARS-CoV-2 circulation and transmission. Thus, this study evaluated the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 genome on the surfaces of highly touched objects manipulated in the biological sample collection point and at the reception unit of the diagnostic laboratory. Surfaces were sampled once a week, for 6 weeks, between September 18th and October 23rd, 2020. RT-qPCR was used for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The coolers for biological sample transportation and the envelope containing the patient form were the objects with the highest occurrence of viral genome detection, although it was detected in each object in only two of the 6 evaluations. And the SARS-CoV-2 genome was detected just once on the vehicle steering wheel, computer keyboard, bathroom door handle and disinfection bench. The virus genome was not detected in any object on three of the six evaluations. And eight was the largest number of surfaces contaminated by the virus genome on one occasion. The reduced incidence of object contamination by the SARS-CoV-2 genome can be explained by the exposure of the objects to environmental conditions and the adoption of virus-spread containment measures. It can also reflect the low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 during the study's development period. Despite the low frequency of SARS-CoV-2 genome detection, our findings show that the virus was present in the environment at some point. This highlights the importance of adopting personal preventive measures to reduce respiratory virus spread, especially during epidemics and outbreaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane Rocha Fagundes Moura
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Bruna Caroline Chaves Garcia
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinicius de Oliveira Ottone
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Philipe Luan Brito
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thyago José Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Lopes Cantuária
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Danilo Bretas de Oliveira
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Etel Rocha-Vieira
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mancusi A, Proroga YTR, Maiolino P, Marrone R, D’Emilio C, Girardi S, Egidio M, Boni A, Vicenza T, Suffredini E, Power K. Droplet Digital RT-PCR (dd RT-PCR) Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Honey Bees and Honey Collected in Apiaries across the Campania Region. Viruses 2024; 16:729. [PMID: 38793611 PMCID: PMC11126096 DOI: 10.3390/v16050729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs), a subfamily of Orthocoronavirinae, are viruses that sometimes present a zoonotic character. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the recent outbreak of COVID-19, which, since its outbreak in 2019, has caused about 774,593,066 confirmed cases and 7,028,881 deaths. Aereosols are the main route of transmission among people; however, viral droplets can contaminate surfaces and fomites as well as particulate matter (PM) in suspensions of natural and human origin. Honey bees are well known bioindicators of the presence of pollutants and PMs in the environment as they can collect a great variety of substances during their foraging activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of honey bees as bioindicators of the prevalence SARS-CoV-2. In this regard, 91 samples of honey bees and 6 of honey were collected from different apiaries of Campania region (Southern Italy) in four time periods from September 2020 to June 2022 and were analyzed with Droplet Digital RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 target genes Orf1b and N. The screening revealed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in 12/91 in honey bee samples and in 2/6 honey samples. These results suggest that honey bees could also be used as indicators of outbreaks of airborne pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mancusi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute No. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (Y.T.R.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute No. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (Y.T.R.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Paola Maiolino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Raffaele Marrone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Claudia D’Emilio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Santa Girardi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute No. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (Y.T.R.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Marica Egidio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Arianna Boni
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Teresa Vicenza
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Karen Power
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Myung H, Joung YS. Contribution of Particulates to Airborne Disease Transmission and Severity: A Review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6846-6867. [PMID: 38568611 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/24/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has catalyzed great interest in the spread of airborne pathogens. Airborne infectious diseases are classified into viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Environmental factors can elevate their transmission and lethality. Air pollution has been reported as the leading environmental cause of disease and premature death worldwide. Notably, ambient particulates of various components and sizes are harmful pollutants. There are two prominent health effects of particles in the atmosphere: (1) particulate matter (PM) penetrates the respiratory tract and adversely affects health, such as heart and respiratory diseases; and (2) bioaerosols of particles act as a medium for the spread of pathogens in the air. Particulates contribute to the occurrence of infectious diseases by increasing vulnerability to infection through inhalation and spreading disease through interactions with airborne pathogens. Here, we focus on the synergistic effects of airborne particulates on infectious disease. We outline the concepts and characteristics of bioaerosols, from their generation to transformation and circulation on Earth. Considering that microorganisms coexist with other particulates as bioaerosols, we investigate studies examining respiratory infections associated with airborne PM. Furthermore, we discuss four factors (meteorological, biological, physical, and chemical) that may impact the influence of PM on the survival of contagious pathogens in the atmosphere. Our review highlights the significant role of particulates in supporting the transmission of infectious aerosols and emphasizes the need for further research in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunji Myung
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women's University, 100, Cheongpa-ro 47-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Soo Joung
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women's University, 100, Cheongpa-ro 47-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nicita F, Calapaj M, Alibrandi S, Donato L, Aquilio E, D'Angelo R, Sidoti A. Efficacy of an experimental gaseous ozone-based sterilization method for clear aligners. Angle Orthod 2024; 94:194-199. [PMID: 38381802 PMCID: PMC10893927 DOI: 10.2319/061623-421.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess effectiveness of an experimental sterilization method based on the exposure of an O3/O2 gas mixture directly inside the packaging for clear aligners. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty samples consisting of pieces of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PET-G) aligners were contaminated by manual handling and subsequently divided into different groups (n = 30 for exposure to O3/O2 gas at different times, n = 10 for positive control with 2% chlorhexidine digluconate, n = 10 for negative control). The measurement of optical densities (OD) of the initial and final microbial cultures was recorded for all groups. Kruskal-Wallis test was used for differences between groups while Wilcoxon test was used to compare initial and final OD values within groups. Statistical significance was set at P < .05. RESULTS Comparison within the groups showed statistically significant differences for exposure to the gaseous mixture (72 hours), for positive and negative controls. Other significant differences were found in the multiple comparisons between the application of gaseous ozone (48 hours and 72 hours) and the negative control. CONCLUSIONS The direct exposure of gaseous ozone on the aligners inside their packaging showed microbicidal capacity at 72 hours, which was equivalent to the positive control with immersion in chlorhexidine digluconate. This innovative sterilization procedure could be considered in the final manufacturing processes of clear aligners to eliminate the potentially pathogenic microorganisms that are deposited on surfaces of these orthodontic devices.
Collapse
|
7
|
Lin FC, Chen YH, Kuo YW, Ku SC, Jerng JS. Aerosol particle dispersion in spontaneous breathing training of oxygen delivery tracheostomized patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation. J Formos Med Assoc 2024:S0929-6646(24)00081-0. [PMID: 38336509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2024.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tracheostomized patients undergoing liberation from mechanical ventilation (MV) are exposed to the ambient environment through humidified air, potentially heightening aerosol particle dispersion. This study was designed to evaluate the patterns of aerosol dispersion during spontaneous breathing trials in such patients weaning from prolonged MV. METHODS Particle Number Concentrations (PNC) at varying distances from tracheostomized patients in a specialized weaning unit were quantified using low-cost particle sensors, calibrated against a Condensation Particle Counter. Different oxygen delivery methods, including T-piece and collar mask both with the humidifier or with a small volume nebulizer (SVN), and simple collar mask, were employed. The PNC at various distances and across different oxygen devices were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS Of nine patients receiving prolonged MV, five underwent major surgery, and eight were successfully weaned from ventilation. PNCs at distances ranging from 30 cm to 300 cm showed no significant disparity (H(4) = 8.993, p = 0.061). However, significant differences in PNC were noted among oxygen delivery methods, with Bonferroni-adjusted pairwise comparisons highlighting differences between T-piece or collar mask with SVN and other devices. CONCLUSIONS Aerosol dispersion within 300 cm of the patient was not significantly different, while the nebulization significantly enhances ambient aerosol dispersion in tracheostomized patients on prolonged MV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Ching Lin
- Division of Respiratory Therapy, Department of Integrated Diagnostics & Therapeutics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Respiratory Therapy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Wen Kuo
- Division of Respiratory Therapy, Department of Integrated Diagnostics & Therapeutics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chi Ku
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jih-Shuin Jerng
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Center for Quality Management, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tomazin R, Matos T. Mycological Methods for Routine Air Sampling and Interpretation of Results in Operating Theaters. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:288. [PMID: 38337804 PMCID: PMC10855394 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14030288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Many infectious diseases are transmitted via the air and are, therefore, particularly difficult to combat. These infections include various invasive mycoses caused by molds. The usual route of infection is the inhalation of conidia. In hospitals, infection can also occur through the deposition of conidia in otherwise sterile anatomical sites during surgical and other invasive procedures. Therefore, knowledge of airborne mold concentrations can lead to measures to protect patients from fungal infections. The literature on this topic contains insufficient and sometimes ambiguous information. This is evidenced by the fact that there are no international recommendations or guidelines defining the methodology of air sampling and the interpretation of the results obtained. Surgical departments, intensive care units and medical mycology laboratories are, therefore, left to their own devices, leading to significant differences in the implementation of mycological surveillance in hospitals. The aim of this mini-review is to provide an overview of the current methods of air sampling and interpretation of results used in medical mycology laboratories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tadeja Matos
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Perez-Favila A, Garza-Veloz I, Hernandez-Marquez LDS, Gutierrez-Vela EF, Flores-Morales V, Martinez-Fierro ML. Antifibrotic Drugs against Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Pulmonary Fibrosis Induced by COVID-19: Therapeutic Approaches and Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1562. [PMID: 38338840 PMCID: PMC10855955 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the health and economy of the global population. Even after recovery from the disease, post-COVID-19 symptoms, such as pulmonary fibrosis, continue to be a concern. This narrative review aims to address pulmonary fibrosis (PF) from various perspectives, including the fibrotic mechanisms involved in idiopathic and COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis. On the other hand, we also discuss the current therapeutic drugs in use, as well as those undergoing clinical or preclinical evaluation. Additionally, this article will address various biomarkers with usefulness for PF prediction, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and severity assessment in order to provide better treatment strategies for patients with this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Margarita L. Martinez-Fierro
- Doctorado en Ciencias con Orientación en Medicina Molecular, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y CS, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico; (A.P.-F.); (I.G.-V.); (L.d.S.H.-M.); (E.F.G.-V.); (V.F.-M.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Reissner J, Siller P, Bartel A, Roesler U, Friese A. Stability of Feline Coronavirus in aerosols and dried in organic matrices on surfaces at various environmental conditions. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22012. [PMID: 38086913 PMCID: PMC10716419 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49361-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Enveloped respiratory viruses, including the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), can be transmitted through aerosols and contact with contaminated surfaces. The stability of these viruses outside the host significantly impacts their transmission dynamics and the spread of diseases. In this study, we investigated the tenacity of Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) in aerosols and on surfaces under varying environmental conditions. We found that airborne FCoV showed different stability depending on relative humidity (RH), with higher stability observed at low and high RH. Medium RH conditions (50-60%) were associated with increased loss of infectivity. Furthermore, FCoV remained infectious in the airborne state over 7 h. On stainless-steel surfaces, FCoV remained infectious for several months, with stability influenced by organic material and temperature. The presence of yeast extract and a temperature of 4 °C resulted in the longest maintenance of infectivity, with a 5 log10 reduction of the initial concentration after 167 days. At 20 °C, this reduction was achieved after 19 days. These findings highlight the potential risk of aerosol and contact transmission of respiratory viruses, especially in enclosed environments, over extended periods. Studying surrogate viruses like FCoV provides important insights into the behavior of zoonotic viruses like SARS-CoV-2 in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janina Reissner
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Paul Siller
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety, Department Veterinary Drugs, Mittelstraße 51-54, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Bartel
- Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Uwe Roesler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anika Friese
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wu Z, Li S, Li X, Tang J, Jiu J, Wang P. Research on the site selection of emergency medical facilities from the perspective of country parks. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20686. [PMID: 38001174 PMCID: PMC10674006 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47610-x] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-epidemic era, human society entered the stage of epidemic prevention and control normalized, emergency medical facilities are an important means of epidemic prevention and control, attention-needed can provide construction sites for emergency medical facilities. Disaster prevention and green space can provide construction sites for emergency medical facilities. In comparison, it was found that the site selection conditions of country parks and emergency medical facilities were more compatible. Based on the requirement of the latter's location, using the Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process, through to the country park type, effective safety area, space fragmentation, distance away from the water, in the wind, away from the city center distance, hydrogeology, eight factors such as traffic is quantitative, construct the evaluation system of emergency medical facility location. Taking Nanjing as an example, the Nanjing city region within the scope of the 43 country parks comprehensive comparison. Results show that green hill forest park, the highest scores in addition to the traffic time factor, the remaining seven factor score the highest, the most balanced distribution, security, scalability, rehabilitation, convenience, pollution prevention, and evacuation. It can be preferred as the site selection and construction target of emergency medical facilities. Besides, the Youzishan Forest Park and Dongkeng Country Park comprehensive scores and each factor score is higher, can be used as emergency preplan alternative goals. The score results indicate that the evaluation method for severity exhibits higher levels of differentiation, significant validity, and highly consistent assignment of impact factor weights. In view of the different regional land, impact factor weights assignment can be adjusted adjust measures to local conditions, to effectively make use of the existing conditions, avoid adverse factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wu
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Shuai Li
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Xiangxu Li
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Jiefang Tang
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
| | - Jiangtao Jiu
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fischer FB, Saucy A, Vienneau D, Hattendorf J, Fanderl J, de Hoogh K, Mäusezahl D. Impacts of weather and air pollution on Legionnaires' disease in Switzerland: A national case-crossover study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 233:116327. [PMID: 37354934 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of reported cases of Legionnaires' disease (LD) has risen markedly in Switzerland (6.5/100,000 inhabitants in 2021) and abroad over the last decade. Legionella, the causative agent of LD, are ubiquitous in the environment. Therefore, environmental changes can affect the incidence of LD, for example by increasing bacterial concentrations in the environment or by facilitating transmission. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to understand the environmental determinants, in particular weather conditions, for the regional and seasonal distribution of LD in Switzerland. METHODS We conducted a series of analyses based on the Swiss LD notification data from 2017 to 2021. First, we used a descriptive and hotspot analysis to map LD cases and identify regional clusters. Second, we applied an ecological model to identify environmental determinants on case frequency at the district level. Third, we applied a case-crossover design using distributed lag non-linear models to identify short-term associations between seven weather variables and LD occurrence. Lastly, we performed a sensitivity analysis for the case-crossover design including NO2 levels available for the year 2019. RESULTS Canton Ticino in southern Switzerland was identified as a hotspot in the cluster analysis, with a standardised notification rate of 14.3 cases/100,000 inhabitants (CI: 12.6, 16.0). The strongest association with LD frequency in the ecological model was found for large-scale factors such as weather and air pollution. The case-crossover study confirmed the strong association of elevated daily mean temperature (OR 2.83; CI: 1.70, 4.70) and mean daily vapour pressure (OR: 1.52, CI: 1.15, 2.01) 6-14 days before LD occurrence. DISCUSSION Our analyses showed an influence of weather with a specific temporal pattern before the onset of LD, which may provide insights into the effect mechanism. The relationship between air pollution and LD and the interplay with weather should be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne B Fischer
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Apolline Saucy
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Danielle Vienneau
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hattendorf
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julia Fanderl
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kees de Hoogh
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Mäusezahl
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lou J, Borjigin S, Tang C, Saadat Y, Hu M, Niemeier DA. Facility design and worker justice: COVID-19 transmission in meatpacking plants. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:713-727. [PMID: 37329208 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meatpacking plants were major sources of COVID-19 outbreaks, posing unprecedented risks to employees, family members, and local communities. The effect on food availability during outbreaks was immediate and staggering: within 2 months, the price of beef increased by almost 7% with documented evidence of significant meat shortages. Meatpacking plant designs, in general, optimize on production; this design approach constrains the ability to enhance worker respiratory protection without reducing output. METHODS Using agent-based modeling, we simulate the spread of COVID-19 within a typical meatpacking plant design under varying levels of mitigation measures, including combinations of social distancing and masking interventions. RESULTS Simulations show an average infection rate of close to 99% with no mitigation, 99% with the policies that US companies ultimately adopted, 81% infected with the combination of surgical masks and distancing policies, and 71% infected with N95 masks and distancing. Estimated infection rates were high, reflecting the duration and exertion of the processing activities and lack of fresh airflow in an enclosed space. CONCLUSION Our results are consistent with anecdotal findings in a recent congressional report, and are much higher than US industry has reported. Our results suggest current processing plant designs made rapid transmission of the virus during the pandemic's early days almost inevitable, and implemented worker protections during COVID-19 did not significantly affect the spread of the virus. We argue current federal policies and regulations are insufficient to ensure the health and safety of workers, creating a justice issue, and jeopardizing food availability in a future pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiehong Lou
- School of Public Policy, Center for Global Sustainability, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Sachraa Borjigin
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Connie Tang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Yalda Saadat
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Ming Hu
- School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Deb A Niemeier
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Al-Shaarani AAQA, Quach ZM, Wang X, Muafa MHM, Nafis MMH, Pecoraro L. Analysis of Airborne Fungal Communities on Pedestrian Bridges in Urban Environments. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2097. [PMID: 37630657 PMCID: PMC10458245 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11082097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Airborne fungal spores constitute an important type of bioaerosol and are responsible for a number of negative effects on human health, including respiratory diseases and allergies. We investigated the diversity and concentration of culturable airborne fungi on pedestrian bridges in Tianjin, China, using an HAS-100B air sampler. We compared the airborne fungal communities at the top central area of the selected pedestrian bridges and along the corresponding sidewalk, at ground level. A total of 228 fungal strains belonging to 96 species and 58 genera of Ascomycota (68.86%), Basidiomycota (30.26%), and Mucoromycota (0.88%) were isolated and identified using morphological and molecular analysis. Alternaria was the dominant genus (20.61%), followed by Cladosporium (11.48%), Schizophyllum (6.14%), Sporobolomyces (5.70%), and Sporidiobolus (4.82%). Alternaria alternata was the most frequently occurring fungal species (6.58%), followed by Schizophyllum commune (5.26%), Alternaria sp. (4.82%), Sporobolomyces carnicolor (4.39%), and Cladosporium cladosporioides (3.95%). The recorded fungal concentration ranged from 10 to 180 CFU/m3. Although there was no significant difference in the distribution and abundance of the dominant airborne fungal taxa between the two investigated bridges' sites, numerous species detected with a low percentage of abundance belonging to well-known pathogenic fungal genera, including Alternaria, Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Trichoderma, were exclusively present in one of the two sites. The relative humidity showed a stronger influence compared to the temperature on the diversity and concentration of airborne fungi in the investigated sites. Our results may provide valuable information for air quality monitoring and for assessing human health risks associated with microbial pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Lorenzo Pecoraro
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China; (A.A.Q.A.A.-S.); (Z.M.Q.); (X.W.); (M.H.M.M.); (M.M.H.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Konecna E, Videnska P, Buresova L, Urik M, Smetanova S, Smatana S, Prokes R, Lanickova B, Budinska E, Klanova J, Borilova Linhartova P. Enrichment of human nasopharyngeal bacteriome with bacteria from dust after short-term exposure to indoor environment: a pilot study. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:202. [PMID: 37525095 PMCID: PMC10391871 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02951-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indoor dust particles are an everyday source of human exposure to microorganisms and their inhalation may directly affect the microbiota of the respiratory tract. We aimed to characterize the changes in human nasopharyngeal bacteriome after short-term exposure to indoor (workplace) environments. METHODS In this pilot study, nasopharyngeal swabs were taken from 22 participants in the morning and after 8 h of their presence at the workplace. At the same time points, indoor dust samples were collected from the participants' households (16 from flats and 6 from houses) and workplaces (8 from a maternity hospital - NEO, 6 from a pediatric hospital - ENT, and 8 from a research center - RCX). 16S rRNA sequencing analysis was performed on these human and environmental matrices. RESULTS Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium were the most abundant genera in both indoor dust and nasopharyngeal samples. The analysis indicated lower bacterial diversity in indoor dust samples from flats compared to houses, NEO, ENT, and RCX (p < 0.05). Participants working in the NEO had the highest nasopharyngeal bacterial diversity of all groups (p < 0.05). After 8 h of exposure to the workplace environment, enrichment of the nasopharynx with several new bacterial genera present in the indoor dust was observed in 76% of study participants; however, no significant changes were observed at the level of the nasopharyngeal bacterial diversity (p > 0.05, Shannon index). These "enriching" bacterial genera overlapped between the hospital workplaces - NEO and ENT but differed from those in the research center - RCX. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that although the composition of nasopharyngeal bacteriome is relatively stable during the day. Short-term exposure to the indoor environment can result in the enrichment of the nasopharynx with bacterial DNA from indoor dust; the bacterial composition, however, varies by the indoor workplace environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Konecna
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Videnska
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Buresova
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Urik
- Department of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Brno, Černopolní 9, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Sona Smetanova
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Stanislav Smatana
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Prokes
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
- Global Change Research Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Bělidla 986/4a, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbara Lanickova
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Brno, Obilni Trh 526/11, 602 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Budinska
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Klanova
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hernandez R, Jimenez-Chávez A, De Vizcaya A, Lozano-Alvarez JA, Esquivel K, Medina-Ramírez IE. Synthesis of TiO 2-Cu 2+/CuI Nanocomposites and Evaluation of Antifungal and Cytotoxic Activity. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1900. [PMID: 37446416 DOI: 10.3390/nano13131900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections have become a significant public health concern due to their increasing recurrence and harmful effects on plants, animals, and humans. Opportunistic pathogens (among others from the genera Candida and Aspergillus) can be present in indoor air, becoming a risk for people with suppressed immune systems. Engineered nanomaterials are novel alternatives to traditional antifungal therapy. In this work, copper(I) iodide (CuI) and a copper-doped titanium dioxide-copper(I) iodide (TiO2-Cu2+/CuI) composite nanomaterials (NMs)-were synthesized and tested as antifungal agents. The materials were synthesized using sol-gel (TiO2-Cu2+) and co-precipitation (CuI) techniques. The resulting colloids were evaluated as antifungal agents against Candida parapsilosis and Aspergillus niger strains. The NMs were characterized by XRD, HRTEM, AFM, and DLS to evaluate their physicochemical properties. The NMs present a high size dispersion and different geometrical shapes of agglomerates. The antifungal capacity of the NMs by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was below 15 µg/mL against Candida parapsilosis and below 600 µg/mL against Aspergillus niger for both NMs. Holotomography microscopy showed that the NMs could penetrate cell membranes causing cell death through its rupture and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cytotoxicity tests showed that NMs could be safe to use at low concentrations. The synthesized nanomaterials could be potential antifungal agents for biomedical or environmental applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Hernandez
- Department of Chemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Av. Universidad 940, Aguascalientes 20100, Mexico
| | - Arturo Jimenez-Chávez
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de Mexico 07360, Mexico
| | - Andrea De Vizcaya
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de Mexico 07360, Mexico
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Program in Public Health, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Juan Antonio Lozano-Alvarez
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Av. Universidad 940, Aguascalientes 20100, Mexico
| | - Karen Esquivel
- División de Investigación y Posgrado, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Cerro de las Campanas, Santiago de Querétaro 76010, Mexico
| | - Iliana E Medina-Ramírez
- Department of Chemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Av. Universidad 940, Aguascalientes 20100, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Talukdar R, Sahu SK, Rajaram M. Implementation Status of Airborne Infection Control Measures in Primary and Secondary Public Health Facilities, Puducherry: A Mixed-Methods Study. Indian J Community Med 2023; 48:483-491. [PMID: 37469915 PMCID: PMC10353669 DOI: 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_196_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Poor ventilation in healthcare settings is a concern for airborne infections, particularly in light of the potential for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission. This study aimed to assess the implementation status of airborne infection control (AIC) measures in primary and secondary public healthcare facilities (HCFs) and to explore the facilitating factors and barriers in the implementation of AIC measures. Methods A mixed-methods approach was adopted, which includes a cross-sectional descriptive study using a checklist to collect data on the implementation of AIC measures in 22 primary and two secondary public HCFs in Puducherry, South India, between October 2020 and February 2021. Further, key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted among medical officers (MOs). The qualitative data were manually analyzed, and transcripts created from handwritten notes and audio recordings were deductively evaluated. Results Of the twenty-four health facilities visited, 54.2% had infection control (IC) committees. Annual IC training was held for housekeeping staff, MOs, nurses, and laboratory technicians in 23 (95.8%), 21 (87.5%), 20 (83.4%), and 14 (58.4%) facilities, respectively. Respiratory symptomatic patients were counseled on cough etiquettes in 22 (91.6%) facilities. Adequate cross-ventilation was present in outpatient departments in 16 (66.6%) institutions. N95 masks and face shields were provided in 21 (87.5%) facilities. Training through the KAYAKALP program and the presence of a separate sputum collection area were facilitators of IC, while lack of patient adherence and delays in fund release were found as barriers. Conclusion Overall, the AIC measures were well-implemented, but improvements are needed in infrastructure development for patient segregation in outpatient departments and dedicated AIC training for all healthcare personnel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rounik Talukdar
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Manju Rajaram
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Na H, Kim H, Kim T. Dispersion of droplets due to the use of air purifiers during summer: Focus on the spread of COVID-19. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2023; 234:110136. [PMID: 36852256 PMCID: PMC9946730 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2023.110136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which emerged in 2019, has induced worldwide chaos. The main cause of COVID-19 mass infection indoors is the spread of virus-containing droplets via indoor airflow, which is affected by air conditioners and purifiers. Here, ten experimental cases were established to analyze how use of air purifiers affects the spread of virus-containing droplets. The experiments were conducted in a school classroom with an air conditioner in summer. In the droplet dispersion experiment, paraffin oil was used as the droplet substance. Two main scenarios were simulated: (1) an infected student was seated in the back of the classroom; and (2) the teacher, standing in the front of the classroom, was infected. The results were expressed using two parameters: peak concentration and loss rate, which reflect the degree of direct and indirect infection (airborne infection), respectively. The air purifier induced a peak concentration decrease of 42% or an increase of 278%, depending on its location in the classroom. Conversely, when the air purifier was operated in the high mode (flow rate = 500 CMH; cubic meters per hour), the loss rate showed that the amount of droplet nuclei only decreased by 39% and the droplet amount decreased by 22%. Thus, the airborne infection degree can be significantly reduced. Finally, the use of air purifiers in the summer may be helpful in preventing group infections by reducing the loss rate and peak concentration if the air purifier is placed in a strategic location, according to the airflow of the corresponding room.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hooseung Na
- Architectural Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyungkeun Kim
- R&D Institute. Risk Assessment PJT, LX Hausys, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Taeyeon Kim
- Architectural Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
He T, Jin L, Li X. On the triad of air PM pollution, pathogenic bioaerosols, and lower respiratory infection. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2023; 45:1067-1077. [PMID: 34236582 PMCID: PMC8264819 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-01025-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Airborne particulate matter (PM) pollution, as a leading environmental health risk, causes millions of premature deaths globally every year. Lower respiratory infection (LRI) is a sensitive response to short-term exposure to outdoor PM pollution. The airborne transmission of etiological agents of LRI, as an important pathway for infection and morbidity, bridges the public health issues of air quality and pathogen infectivity, virulence, resistance, and others. Enormous efforts are underway to identify common pathogens and substances that are etiological agents for LRI and to understand the underlying toxicological and clinical basis of health effects by identifying mechanistic pathways. Seasonal variations and geographical disparities in the survival and infectivity of LRI pathogens are unsolved mysteries. Weather conditions in geographical areas may have a key effect, but also potentially connect LRI with short-term increases in ambient air PM pollution. Statistical associations show that short-term elevations in fine and coarse PM lead to increases in respiratory infections, but the causative agents could be chemical or microbiological and be present individually or in mixtures, and the interactions between chemical and microbiological agents remain undefined. Further investigations on high-resolution monitoring of airborne pathogens in relation to PM pollution for an integrated exposure-response assessment and mechanistic study are warranted. Improving our understanding of the spatiotemporal features of pathogenic bioaerosols and air pollutants and translating scientific evidence into effective policies is vital to reducing the health risks and devastating death toll from PM pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tangtian He
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Ling Jin
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Xiangdong Li
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sanmark E, Oksanen LAH, Rantanen N, Lahelma M, Anttila VJ, Lehtonen L, Hyvärinen A, Geneid A. Aerosol generation during coughing: an observational study. J Laryngol Otol 2023; 137:442-447. [PMID: 35543098 PMCID: PMC10040286 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215122001165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Coronavirus disease 2019 has highlighted the lack of knowledge on aerosol exposure during respiratory activity and aerosol-generating procedures. This study sought to determine the aerosol concentrations generated by coughing to better understand, and to set a standard for studying, aerosols generated in medical procedures. METHODS Aerosol exposure during coughing was measured in 37 healthy volunteers in the operating theatre with an optical particle sizer, from 40 cm, 70 cm and 100 cm distances. RESULTS Altogether, 306 volitional and 15 involuntary coughs were measured. No differences between groups were observed. CONCLUSION Many medical procedures are expected to generate aerosols; it is unclear whether they are higher risk than normal respiratory activity. The measured aerosol exposure can be used to determine the risk for significant aerosol generation during medical procedures. Considerable variation of aerosol generation during cough was observed between individuals, but whether cough was volitional or involuntary made no difference to aerosol production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Sanmark
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - L A H Oksanen
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - N Rantanen
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Lahelma
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculties of Science, Mathematics and Statistics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - V-J Anttila
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- HUS Inflammation Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - L Lehtonen
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- HUS Diagnostic Center, HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Hyvärinen
- Finnish Meteorological Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Geneid
- Facultie of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Yang W, Chen T, Wang H, He R. "Simulation of medical goggles to stop airborne transmission of viruses: computational fluid dynamics in ergonomics". ERGONOMICS 2023; 66:350-365. [PMID: 35659495 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2084565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents a position statement on combining computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and ergonomics to guide the design of personal protective equipment (PPE). We used CFD to simulate 36 exposure scenarios of an infected patient sneezing at different distances and different angles while facing either the front or the side of a healthcare worker with or without goggles. The results show that medical goggles indeed block most droplets from the outer surface, but many droplets still deposit on the bottom edge (especially at the nose), inside the air holes and on the side edge. However, the edges of medical goggles have fitment problems with people in different regions, and the air holes do not function as filters and cannot prevent fine droplets from entering the interior and contacting the eyes. Our research demonstrates the feasibility of studying the design of PPE for airtightness and protection by means of CFD.Practitioner summary: Computational fluid dynamics can quickly and efficiently reflect the airtightness design problems of PPE. A model was developed using CFD to examine the protective effect of medical goggles in preventing the airborne transmission of viruses. The model demonstrates the feasibility of using CFD to solve ergonomic problems.Abbreviations: CFD: computational fluid dynamics; PPE: personal protective equipment; WHO: the World Health Organisation; COVID-19: coronavirus disease 2019; SARS-CoV-2: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; OSHA: the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; CDC: the Centres for Disease Control; FEM: finite element method; 3M: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Corporation; SPH: smoothed particle hydrodynamics; AROM: active range of motion; DPM: discrete phase model; PISO: pressure implicit with splitting of operators; VR: virtual reality; AR: augmented reality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiu Yang
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Tingshu Chen
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Haining Wang
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Renke He
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sanmark E, Kuula J, Laitinen S, Oksanen LMAH, Bamford DH, Atanasova NS. Safe use of PHI6 IN the experimental studies. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13565. [PMID: 36879750 PMCID: PMC9984441 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Surrogate viruses theoretically provide an opportunity to study the viral spread in an indoor environment, a highly needed understanding during the pandemic, in a safe manner to humans and the environment. However, the safety of surrogate viruses for humans as an aerosol at high concentrations has not been established. In this study, Phi6 surrogate was aerosolized at high concentration (Particulate matter2.5: ∼1018 μg m-3) in the studied indoor space. Participants were closely followed for any symptoms. We measured the bacterial endotoxin concentration of the virus solution used for aerosolization as well as the concentration in the room air containing the aerosolized viruses. In addition, we measured how the bacterial endotoxin concentration of the sample was affected by different traditional virus purification procedures. Despite the purification, bacterial endotoxin concentration of the Phi6 was high (350 EU/ml in solution used for aerosols) with both (two) purification protocols. Bacterial endotoxins were also detected in aerosolized form, but below the occupational exposure limit of 90 EU/m3. Despite these concerns, no symptoms were observed in exposed humans when they were using personal protective equipment. In the future, purification protocols should be developed to reduce associated bacterial endotoxin levels in enveloped bacterial virus specimens to ensure even safer research use of surrogate viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enni Sanmark
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Joel Kuula
- Atmospheric Composition Research, Finnish Meteorological Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sirpa Laitinen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Lotta-Maria A H Oksanen
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Phoniatrics - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dennis H Bamford
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nina S Atanasova
- Atmospheric Composition Research, Finnish Meteorological Institute, Helsinki, Finland.,Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Li J, Xu Q, Cheng W, Zhao L, Liu S, Gao Z, Xu X, Ye C, You H. Weakly Supervised Collaborative Learning for Airborne Pollen Segmentation and Classification from SEM Images. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:life13010247. [PMID: 36676197 PMCID: PMC9867018 DOI: 10.3390/life13010247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Existing pollen identification methods heavily rely on the scale and quality of pollen images. However, there are many impurities in real-world SEM images that should be considered. This paper proposes a collaborative learning method to jointly improve the performance of pollen segmentation and classification in a weakly supervised manner. It first locates pollen regions from the raw images based on the detection model. To improve the classification performance, we segmented the pollen grains through a pre-trained U-Net using unsupervised pollen contour features. The segmented pollen regions were fed into a deep convolutional neural network to obtain the activation maps, which were used to further refine the segmentation masks. In this way, both segmentation and classification models can be collaboratively trained, supervised by just pollen contour features and class-specific information. Extensive experiments on real-world datasets were conducted, and the results prove that our method effectively avoids impurity interference and improves pollen identification accuracy (86.6%) under the limited supervision (around 1000 images with image-level labels).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Li
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Qinlan Xu
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Wenxiu Cheng
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Linna Zhao
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Suqin Liu
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Zhengkai Gao
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Xi Xu
- Faculty of Information Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Caihua Ye
- Beijing Meteorological Service Center, Beijing 100089, China
| | - Huanling You
- Beijing Meteorological Service Center, Beijing 100089, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Han Y, Li L, Liu J. Distribution characteristics and potential risks of bacterial aerosol in waste transfer station. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 326:116599. [PMID: 36368203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The waste transfer station (WTS) is an important link in the transfer of municipal solid waste (MSW) between the community and disposal terminals. While WTSs facilitate waste collection in communities, odorous gases and bioaerosols can escape from them, thereby negatively affecting their surroundings. In this study, the concentration, particle size distribution, pathogen population, and health risks of bioaerosols were analyzed at different locations in a transfer station. The results showed that the highest viable bacterial aerosol concentration was 10,353 ± 3701 CFU/m3, which was at 5 m from the disposal site. Fifty-three bacterial species, including pathogens, were detected. Of these, 39 were human pathogenic bacteria directly originating from the WTS. Furthermore, health risk assessments indicated unacceptable levels of non-carcinogenic risk for operational workers caused by bacterial aerosols of the WTS work area. In addition, bacterial aerosols may pose a severe health risk to children within a 15 m area of the WTS. The results of this study provide a scientific basis to control and reduce the risk associated with bioaerosol exposure in solid WTSs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunping Han
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China.
| | - Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China.
| | - Junxin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Piletić K, Linšak DT, Kovač B, Mežnarić S, Repustić M, Radmanović-Skrbić M, Gobin I. Ozone disinfection efficiency against airborne microorganisms in hospital environment: a case study. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2022; 73:270-276. [PMID: 36607720 PMCID: PMC9985346 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2022-73-3651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though ozone has shown its potential for air disinfection in hospital environment, its more frequent use has earned attention only with the COVID-19 pandemic due to its proven antimicrobial effect and low cost of production. The aim of this study was to determine its antimicrobial efficiency against the most common bacterial species in a real-life setting, that is, in the air of one postoperative room of the General Hospital Dr Ivo Pedišić (Sisak, Croatia). Air was sampled for aiborne bacteria before and after treatment with the ozone concentration of 15.71 mg/m3 for one hour. The most dominant Gram-positive bacteria of the genera Micrococcus, Staphylococcus, and Bacillus were reduced by 33 %, 58 %, and 61 %, respectively. The genus Micrococcus proved to be the most resistant. Considering our findings, we recommend longer air treatment with higher ozone concentrations in combination with mechanical cleaning and frequent ventilation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaća Piletić
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dijana Tomić Linšak
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Ecology, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Bruno Kovač
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Silvestar Mežnarić
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | | | - Ivana Gobin
- University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Rijeka, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Argyropoulos CD, Skoulou V, Efthimiou G, Michopoulos AK. Airborne transmission of biological agents within the indoor built environment: a multidisciplinary review. AIR QUALITY, ATMOSPHERE, & HEALTH 2022; 16:477-533. [PMID: 36467894 PMCID: PMC9703444 DOI: 10.1007/s11869-022-01286-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The nature and airborne dispersion of the underestimated biological agents, monitoring, analysis and transmission among the human occupants into building environment is a major challenge of today. Those agents play a crucial role in ensuring comfortable, healthy and risk-free conditions into indoor working and leaving spaces. It is known that ventilation systems influence strongly the transmission of indoor air pollutants, with scarce information although to have been reported for biological agents until 2019. The biological agents' source release and the trajectory of airborne transmission are both important in terms of optimising the design of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems of the future. In addition, modelling via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) will become a more valuable tool in foreseeing risks and tackle hazards when pollutants and biological agents released into closed spaces. Promising results on the prediction of their dispersion routes and concentration levels, as well as the selection of the appropriate ventilation strategy, provide crucial information on risk minimisation of the airborne transmission among humans. Under this context, the present multidisciplinary review considers four interrelated aspects of the dispersion of biological agents in closed spaces, (a) the nature and airborne transmission route of the examined agents, (b) the biological origin and health effects of the major microbial pathogens on the human respiratory system, (c) the role of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems in the airborne transmission and (d) the associated computer modelling approaches. This adopted methodology allows the discussion of the existing findings, on-going research, identification of the main research gaps and future directions from a multidisciplinary point of view which will be helpful for substantial innovations in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasiliki Skoulou
- B3 Challenge Group, Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX UK
| | - Georgios Efthimiou
- Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX UK
| | - Apostolos K. Michopoulos
- Energy & Environmental Design of Buildings Research Laboratory, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ganesapillai M, Mondal B, Sarkar I, Sinha A, Ray SS, Kwon YN, Nakamura K, Govardhan K. The face behind the Covid-19 mask - A comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 2022; 28:102837. [PMID: 35879973 PMCID: PMC9299984 DOI: 10.1016/j.eti.2022.102837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The threat of epidemic outbreaks like SARS-CoV-2 is growing owing to the exponential growth of the global population and the continual increase in human mobility. Personal protection against viral infections was enforced using ambient air filters, face masks, and other respiratory protective equipment. Available facemasks feature considerable variation in efficacy, materials usage and characteristic properties. Despite their widespread use and importance, face masks pose major potential threats due to the uncontrolled manufacture and disposal techniques. Improper solid waste management enables viral propagation and increases the volume of associated biomedical waste at an alarming rate. Polymers used in single-use face masks include a spectrum of chemical constituents: plasticisers and flame retardants leading to health-related issues over time. Despite ample research in this field, the efficacy of personal protective equipment and its impact post-disposal is yet to be explored satisfactorily. The following review assimilates information on the different forms of personal protective equipment currently in use. Proper waste management techniques pertaining to such special wastes have also been discussed. The study features a holistic overview of innovations made in face masks and their corresponding impact on human health and environment. Strategies with SDG3 and SDG12, outlining safe and proper disposal of solid waste, have also been discussed. Furthermore, employing the CFD paradigm, a 3D model of a face mask was created based on fluid flow during breathing techniques. Lastly, the review concludes with possible future advancements and promising research avenues in personal protective equipment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Ganesapillai
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bidisha Mondal
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ishita Sarkar
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aritro Sinha
- Mass Transfer Group, School of Chemical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saikat Sinha Ray
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Nam Kwon
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Republic of Korea
| | - Kazuho Nakamura
- Faculty of Engineering, Division of Material Science and Chemical Engineering, Yokohama National University, Tokiwadai, Yokohama, Kanagawa 240-8501, Japan
| | - K Govardhan
- Department of Micro and Nano-Electronics, School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Aerosol concentrations and size distributions during clinical dental procedures. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11074. [PMID: 36303931 PMCID: PMC9593181 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11074] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Suspected aerosol-generating dental instruments may cause risks for operators by transmitting pathogens, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The aim of our study was to measure aerosol generation in various dental procedures in clinical settings. Methods The study population comprised of 84 patients who underwent 253 different dental procedures measured with Optical Particle Sizer in a dental office setting. Aerosol particles from 0.3 to 10 μm in diameter were measured. Dental procedures included oral examinations (N = 52), restorative procedures with air turbine handpiece (N = 8), high-speed (N = 6) and low-speed (N = 30) handpieces, ultrasonic scaling (N = 31), periodontal treatment using hand instruments (N = 60), endodontic treatment (N = 12), intraoral radiographs (N = 24), and dental local anesthesia (N = 31). Results Air turbine handpieces significantly elevated <1 μm particle median (p = 0.013) and maximum (p = 0.016) aerosol number concentrations as well as aerosol particle mass concentrations (p = 0.046 and p = 0.006) compared to the background aerosol levels preceding the operation. Low-speed dental handpieces elevated >5 μm median (p = 0.023), maximum (p = 0.013) particle number concentrations,> 5 μm particle mass concentrations (p = 0.021) and maximum total particle mass concentrations (p = 0.022). High-speed dental handpieces elevated aerosol concentration levels compared to the levels produced during oral examination. Conclusions Air turbine handpieces produced the highest levels of <1 μm aerosols and total particle number concentrations when compared to the other commonly used instruments. In addition, high- and low-speed dental handpieces and ultrasonic scalers elevated the aerosol concentration levels compared to the aerosol levels measured during oral examination. These aerosol-generating procedures, involving air turbine, high- and low-speed handpiece, and ultrasonic scaler, should be performed with caution. Clinical significance Aerosol generating dental instruments, especially air turbine, should be used with adequate precautions (rubber dam, high-volume evacuation, FFP-respirators), because aerosols can cause a potential risk for operators and substitution of air turbine for high-speed dental handpiece in poor epidemic situations should be considered to reduce the risk of aerosol transmission.
Collapse
|
29
|
Espinoza JL, Dupont CL. VEBA: a modular end-to-end suite for in silico recovery, clustering, and analysis of prokaryotic, microeukaryotic, and viral genomes from metagenomes. BMC Bioinformatics 2022; 23:419. [PMID: 36224545 PMCID: PMC9554839 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-022-04973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the advent of metagenomics, the importance of microorganisms and how their interactions are relevant to ecosystem resilience, sustainability, and human health has become evident. Cataloging and preserving biodiversity is paramount not only for the Earth's natural systems but also for discovering solutions to challenges that we face as a growing civilization. Metagenomics pertains to the in silico study of all microorganisms within an ecological community in situ, however, many software suites recover only prokaryotes and have limited to no support for viruses and eukaryotes. RESULTS In this study, we introduce the Viral Eukaryotic Bacterial Archaeal (VEBA) open-source software suite developed to recover genomes from all domains. To our knowledge, VEBA is the first end-to-end metagenomics suite that can directly recover, quality assess, and classify prokaryotic, eukaryotic, and viral genomes from metagenomes. VEBA implements a novel iterative binning procedure and hybrid sample-specific/multi-sample framework that yields more genomes than any existing methodology alone. VEBA includes a consensus microeukaryotic database containing proteins from existing databases to optimize microeukaryotic gene modeling and taxonomic classification. VEBA also provides a unique clustering-based dereplication strategy allowing for sample-specific genomes and genes to be directly compared across non-overlapping biological samples. Finally, VEBA is the only pipeline that automates the detection of candidate phyla radiation bacteria and implements the appropriate genome quality assessments. VEBA's capabilities are demonstrated by reanalyzing 3 existing public datasets which recovered a total of 948 MAGs (458 prokaryotic, 8 eukaryotic, and 482 viral) including several uncharacterized organisms and organisms with no public genome representatives. CONCLUSIONS The VEBA software suite allows for the in silico recovery of microorganisms from all domains of life by integrating cutting edge algorithms in novel ways. VEBA fully integrates both end-to-end and task-specific metagenomic analysis in a modular architecture that minimizes dependencies and maximizes productivity. The contributions of VEBA to the metagenomics community includes seamless end-to-end metagenomics analysis but also provides users with the flexibility to perform specific analytical tasks. VEBA allows for the automation of several metagenomics steps and shows that new information can be recovered from existing datasets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josh L. Espinoza
- Department of Environment and Sustainability, J. Craig Venter Institute, 4120 Capricorn Ln, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
- Department of Human Biology and Genomic Medicine, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| | - Chris L. Dupont
- Department of Environment and Sustainability, J. Craig Venter Institute, 4120 Capricorn Ln, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
- Department of Human Biology and Genomic Medicine, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Smither SJ, Eastaugh LS, O’Brien LM, Phelps AL, Lever MS. Aerosol Survival, Disinfection and Formalin Inactivation of Nipah Virus. Viruses 2022; 14:v14092057. [PMID: 36146863 PMCID: PMC9504694 DOI: 10.3390/v14092057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nipah virus is a relatively newly discovered emerging virus on the WHO list of priority pathogens which has the potential to cause outbreaks with high fatality rates. Whilst progress is being made in the development of animal models for evaluating vaccines and therapies, some of the more fundamental data on Nipah virus are lacking. We performed studies to generate novel information on the aerosol survival of Nipah virus and to look at the efficacy of two common disinfectants. We also performed studies to evaluate the inactivation of Nipah virus by using neutral buffered formalin. Nipah virus was relatively stable in a small particle (1–5 µm) aerosol in the dark, with it having a decay rate of 1.46%min−1. Sodium hypochlorite (at 10%) and ethanol (at 80%) reduced the titre of Nipah virus to undetectable levels. Nipah virus that was in tissue culture medium was also inactivated after 24 h in the presence of 10% formalin.
Collapse
|
31
|
Ghidini S, De Luca S, Rodríguez-López P, Simon AC, Liuzzo G, Poli L, Ianieri A, Zanardi E. Microbial contamination, antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation of bacteria isolated from a high-throughput pig abattoir. Ital J Food Saf 2022; 11:10160. [PMID: 36120528 PMCID: PMC9472283 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2022.10160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work was to assess the level of microbial contamination and resistance of bacteria isolated from a highthroughput heavy pig slaughterhouse (approx. 4600 pigs/day) towards antimicrobials considered as critical for human, veterinary or both chemotherapies. Samples, pre-operative and operative, were obtained in 4 different surveys. These comprised environmental sampling, i.e. air (ntotal = 192) and surfaces (ntotal = 32), in four different locations. Moreover, a total of 40 carcasses were sampled in two different moments of slaughtering following Reg. (CE) 2073/2005. Overall, 60 different colonies were randomly selected from VRBGA plates belonging to 20 species, 15 genera and 10 families being Enterobacteriaceae, Moraxellaceae and Pseudomonadaceae the most represented ones. Thirty-seven isolates presented resistance to at least one molecule and seventeen were classified as multi-drug resistant. Enterobacteriaceae, particularly E. coli, displayed high MIC values towards trimethoprim, ampicillin, tetracycline and sulphametoxazole with MICmax of 16, 32, 32 and 512 mg/L, respectively. Moreover, isolated Pseudomonas spp. showed high MIC values in critical antibiotics such as ampicillin and azithromycin with MICmax of 32 and 64 mg/L, respectively. Additionally, in vitro biofilm formation assays demonstrated that fifteen of these isolates can be classified as strong biofilm formers. Results demonstrated that a high diversity of bacteria containing antibiotic resistant and multiresistant species is present in the sampled abattoir. Considering these findings, it could be hypothesised that the processing environment could be a potential diffusion determinant of antibiotic resistant bacteria through the food chain and operators.
Collapse
|
32
|
SARS-CoV-2 Transmission by Arthropod Vectors: A Scoping Review. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:4329423. [PMID: 35978635 PMCID: PMC9377902 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4329423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a respiratory disease of worldwide importance as it has brought enormous health problems to the world's population. The best-known way of transmission of the virus is through aerosolization. However, research is needed to explore other transmission routes. Researchers hypothesized that arthropods could transmit SARs-CoV-2. This study is aimed at reviewing research on arthropods as possible reservoirs and/or vectors of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review using several electronic databases/academic searches with the search terms “arthropods,” “coronavirus,” and “transmission.” A total of 64 unique articles were identified, of which 58 were included in the review. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is tiny and invisible to the naked eye, and its presence in stools, droplets, and surfaces was detected. One doubt is whether insects can transmit the virus from one place to another. Thus, a healthy carrier of the COVID-19 virus can be at the root of the contamination of their community or their family through the transport of the virus by insects from the interior (flies, cockroaches, etc.) from their feces and food surfaces. Hygiene care within communities and families becomes a prime factor. Coronavirus infection is a significant public health problem around the world. The prevention and control of outbreaks remain very important, even with the production of new vaccines. The main option to achieve this is the proper management of the transmission of the virus. The registry of infected people is currently the basis for the transmission of COVID-19. However, questions about the possibility of infection from other sources and its prevention are not receiving adequate attention. Numerous studies have shown the possibility that SARS-COV-2 fragments could have a longer life than shed respiratory droplets. Also, this virus is larger than those of other coronavirus families.
Collapse
|
33
|
Niemiec T, Skowron K, Świderek W, Kwiecińska-Piróg J, Gryń G, Wójcik-Trechcińska U, Gajewska M, Zglińska K, Łozicki A, Koczoń P. Effect of radiant catalytic ionization on environmental conditions in rodent rooms and the haematological status of mice. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:298. [PMID: 35922808 PMCID: PMC9347109 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03402-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
High stocking densities, closed animal houses, and elevated concentrations of bacteria, fungi, and the products of their activity, including ammonia and hydrogen sulphide, have adverse health effects. Active techniques used to reduce unfavourable environmental conditions, such as ventilation, sprinkling, bedding sorbents, and nutritional treatments, are not always sufficient to improve the animals’ living environment. The current paper aims to evaluate the effect of radiant catalytic ionization (RCI) on airborne microorganisms, cage microbiological status, gaseous ammonia concentrations, and the haematological status of mice in animal houses. After one week of operation of an RCI system, the number of airborne bacteria and fungi in the experimental room decreased in comparison to the first day of the experiment (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05 respectively), as did the concentrations of ammonia (p < 0.01) and dust. At the same time, the basic health parameters of the mice, determined in the blood, were very similar between the control and experimental room. RCI seems to be an ideal solution to ensure high hygiene standards in animal rooms and houses with limited use of disinfectants or antibiotic treatment of sick animals. An additional, environmental benefit is the limited amount of nitrogen released.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Niemiec
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Animal Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Skowron
- Department of Microbiology, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Wiesław Świderek
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Animal Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kwiecińska-Piróg
- Department of Microbiology, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Gryń
- Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute - National Research Institute, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | | | - Marta Gajewska
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Animal Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Klara Zglińska
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Animal Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Łozicki
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Animal Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Koczoń
- Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Yimer RM, Alemu MK. Bacterial Contamination Level of Indoor Air and Surface of Equipment in the Operation Room in Dil-Chora Referral Hospital, Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:5085-5097. [PMID: 36071817 PMCID: PMC9442909 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s380774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the bacterial contamination level of the indoor air and surface of the operation room, surgical, and gynecology wards of Dilchora Referral hospitals between January and August 2020. Methods A laboratory based cross-sectional study was carried out on the OR and wards of Dilchora referral hospital in Eastern Ethiopia. A passive air sampling method was used to collect 128 indoor air samples; the bacterial load was enumerated and the result was expressed as colony forming units (CFU/m3). Additional qualitative analysis was carried out to identify particular bacterial species that were isolated from the indoor air and swabs taken from the surface of the equipment using conventional techniques. All laboratory data were entered and analyzed using MS Excel 2007 and SPSS version 20. Results The mean bacterial counts of 94.63 CFU/dm/hr in major OR during active time as well as 509.75 and 509.38 CFU/dm/hr in male and female clothing rooms during the afternoon were unacceptable (>450 CFU/dm2). Similarly, 43.75% of the bacterial counts found in the afternoon samples fell short of Fisher’s criterion. The difference between the bacterial counts recorded in the morning and afternoon was significant (p=0.000). A total of 54 (42.2%) indoor air samples and 28 (93.3%) cotton swabs were positive for bacterial growth, with S. aureus (51.04%) and Bacillus sp (55%) being the dominant bacteria isolated from indoor air and the surface of equipment, respectively. Conclusion The bacterial load of investigated wards is considerably “high” to “very high”, which implies a significant risk of hospital acquired infections. Therefore, devising effective control strategies targeted on surface cleansing and sterilizing of the air environment and practicing periodic microbial surveillance of the hospital environment is a paramant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robel Mekonnen Yimer
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Robel Mekonnen Yimer, P.O.Box 1362, 3000 Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, Tel +251 913 278 009, Fax +251 25 112 79 71, Email ;
| | - Mesfin Kebede Alemu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Guyot G, Sayah S, Guernouti S, Mélois A. Role of ventilation on the transmission of viruses in buildings, from a single zone to a multizone approach. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e13097. [PMID: 36040282 PMCID: PMC9541182 DOI: 10.1111/ina.13097] [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: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In a virus pandemic context, buildings ventilation has been recognized as a solution for preventing transmission of the virus in aerosolized form. The impact of the widespread recommendation of window opening and sealing door on ventilation circuits needs to be considered with a multizone approach. We modeled the airflow distribution in a building where people are isolating in a pandemic context, including one infected person. We analyzed the impact of opening the window and sealing the door in the quarantine room on exposures and probability of infection for occupants of the flat and of adjacent flats. In order to study the sensitivity of the results, we tested three ventilation systems: balanced, exhaust-only, and humidity-based demand-controlled, and several window- and door-opening strategies. When the door of the quarantine room is sealed, we observe that opening the window in the quarantine room always results in increased exposure and probability of infection for at least one other occupant, including in neighbors' apartments. When all internal doors are opened, we observe moderate impacts, with rather an increase of exposure of the occupants of the same apartments and of their probability of infection, and a decrease for the occupants located in other apartments. Based on the analysis on the airflows distribution in this case study, we conclude that sealing the internal door has more influence than opening the window of the quarantine room, whatever the ventilation system. We observe that this widespread recommendation to open the window of a quarantine room and to seal the door is based on the consideration of a single zone model. We illustrate the importance of moving from such a single zone approach to a multizone approach for quantifying ventilation and airing impacts in multizone buildings as residences in order to prevent epidemics of viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. It highlights the need of air leakage databases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Guyot
- CeremaBPE Research TeamNantesFrance
- University of Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LOCIEChambéryFrance
| | | | - Sihem Guernouti
- CeremaBPE Research TeamNantesFrance
- University of Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LOCIEChambéryFrance
| | - Adeline Mélois
- CeremaBPE Research TeamNantesFrance
- University of Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LOCIEChambéryFrance
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kanankege KST, Graham K, Corzo CA, VanderWaal K, Perez AM, Durr PA. Adapting an Atmospheric Dispersion Model to Assess the Risk of Windborne Transmission of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus between Swine Farms. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081658. [PMID: 36016281 PMCID: PMC9416339 DOI: 10.3390/v14081658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Modeling the windborne transmission of aerosolized pathogens is challenging. We adapted an atmospheric dispersion model (ADM) to simulate the windborne dispersion of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSv) between swine farms. This work focuses on determining ADM applicable parameter values for PRRSv through a literature and expert opinion-based approach. The parameters included epidemiological features of PRRSv, characteristics of the aerosolized particles, and survival of aerosolized virus in relation to key meteorological features. A case study was undertaken to perform a sensitivity analysis on key parameters. Farms experiencing ongoing PRRSv outbreaks were assigned as particle emitting sources. The wind data from the North American Mesoscale Forecast System was used to simulate dispersion. The risk was estimated semi-quantitatively based on the median daily deposition of particles and the distance to the closest emitting farm. Among the parameters tested, the ADM was most sensitive to the number of particles emitted, followed by the model runtime, and the release height was the least sensitive. Farms within 25 km from an emitting farm were at the highest risk; with 53.66% being within 10 km. An ADM-based risk estimation of windborne transmission of PRRSv may inform optimum time intervals for air sampling, plan preventive measures, and aid in ruling out the windborne dispersion in outbreak investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaushi S. T. Kanankege
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA; (C.A.C.); (K.V.); (A.M.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(612)-625-7755; Fax: +1-(612)-625-6241
| | - Kerryne Graham
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, VIC 3219, Australia; (K.G.); (P.A.D.)
| | - Cesar A. Corzo
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA; (C.A.C.); (K.V.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Kimberly VanderWaal
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA; (C.A.C.); (K.V.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Andres M. Perez
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA; (C.A.C.); (K.V.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Peter A. Durr
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, VIC 3219, Australia; (K.G.); (P.A.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sobolik JS, Sajewski ET, Jaykus LA, Cooper DK, Lopman BA, Kraay AN, Ryan PB, Guest JL, Webb-Girard A, Leon JS. Decontamination of SARS-CoV-2 from cold-chain food packaging provides no marginal benefit in risk reduction to food workers. Food Control 2022; 136:108845. [PMID: 35075333 PMCID: PMC8770992 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.108845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Countries continue to debate the need for decontamination of cold-chain food packaging to reduce possible severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) fomite transmission among frontline workers. While laboratory-based studies demonstrate persistence of SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces, the likelihood of fomite-mediated transmission under real-life conditions is uncertain. Using a quantitative microbial risk assessment model of a frozen food packaging facility, we simulated 1) SARS-CoV-2 fomite-mediated infection risks following worker exposure to contaminated plastic packaging; and 2) reductions in these risks from masking, handwashing, and vaccination. In a frozen food facility without interventions, SARS-CoV-2 infection risk to a susceptible worker from contact with contaminated packaging was 1.5 × 10-3 per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 9.2 × 10-6, 1.2 × 10-2). Standard food industry infection control interventions, handwashing and masking, reduced risk (99.4%) to 8.5 × 10-6 risk per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 2.8 × 10-8, 6.6 × 10-5). Vaccination of the susceptible worker (two doses Pfizer/Moderna, vaccine effectiveness: 86-99%) with handwashing and masking reduced risk to 5.2 × 10-7 risk per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 1.8 × 10-9, 5.4 × 10-6). Simulating increased transmissibility of current and future variants (Delta, Omicron), (2-, 10-fold viral shedding) among a fully vaccinated workforce, handwashing and masking continued to mitigate risk (1.4 × 10-6 - 8.8 × 10-6 risk per 1h-period). Additional decontamination of frozen food plastic packaging reduced infection risks to 1.2 × 10-8 risk per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 1.9 × 10-11, 9.5 × 10-8). Given that standard infection control interventions reduced risks well below 1 × 10-4 (World Health Organization water quality risk thresholds), additional packaging decontamination suggest no marginal benefit in risk reduction. Consequences of this decontamination may include increased chemical exposures to workers, food quality and hazard risks to consumers, and unnecessary added costs to governments and the global food industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia S. Sobolik
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA,Corresponding author. 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | | | - Lee-Ann Jaykus
- Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - D. Kane Cooper
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ben A. Lopman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Alicia N.M. Kraay
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - P. Barry Ryan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jodie L. Guest
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Amy Webb-Girard
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Juan S. Leon
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Čabanová K, Štrbová K, Motyka O, Zeleník K, Dvořáčková J, Zabiegaj D, Havlíček M, Kukutschová J. Traffic pollution tracers in the lymphatic system tissue of children-possible link to chronic tonsillitis development: pilot study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:39131-39138. [PMID: 35099699 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-18869-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The origin of metal elements in tonsillar tissues of children patients was investigated in order to establish the link between environmental pollution and tonsilitis diagnosis. The children lived either in a polluted, industrial region (Moravian-Silesian Region, North-East Czechia) or a clean, predominantly agricultural region (South Bohemian Region, South-East Czechia). Simultaneously, the distance of the address of the patients to the closest main road was assessed. The elemental content of the present particulate matter in the tonsil samples, coming from indicated tonsillectomies, was analysed using scanning electron microscopy equipped with an X-ray microprobe. No significant association of the elemental composition and the region was found using both bivariate and multivariate methods; however, an association with the distance to the closest main road was found. The study presents a novel assessment of the tonsillar tissues and supports the link between environmental factors (traffic-related particulate pollution) and the onset of chronic, idiopathic diseases in children, which has been debated recently.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Čabanová
- Centre for Advanced Innovation Technologies, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
| | - Kristína Štrbová
- ENET Centre, CEET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Oldřich Motyka
- Nanotechnology Centre, CEET, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Karol Zeleník
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Dvořáčková
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Dominika Zabiegaj
- Smart Materials and Surfaces Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Environment, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK
| | | | - Jana Kukutschová
- Centre for Advanced Innovation Technologies, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
The antimicrobial properties of photocatalysts have long been studied. However, most of the available literature describes their antibacterial properties, while knowledge of their antiviral activity is rather scarce. Since the outset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an increasing body of research has suggested their antiviral potential and highlighted the need for further research in this area. In this study, we investigated the virucidal properties of a commercial TiO2-coated photocatalytic glass against a model human coronavirus. Our findings demonstrate that the TiO2-coated glass consistently inactivates coronaviruses upon contact under daylight illumination, in a time-dependent manner. A 99% drop in virus titer was achieved after 3.9 h. The electron micrographs of virus-covered TiO2-glass showed a reduced number of virions compared to control glass. Morphological alterations of TiO2-exposed viruses included deformation, disruption of the viral envelope, and virion ghosts, endorsing the application of this material in the construction of protective elements to mitigate the transmission of viruses. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing direct visual evidence of human coronaviruses being damaged and morphologically altered following exposure to this photocatalyst. IMPORTANCE Surface contamination is an important contributor to SARS-CoV-2 spread. The use of personal protective elements and physical barriers (i.e., masks, gloves, and indoor glass separators) increases safety and has proven invaluable in preventing contagion. Redesigning these barriers so that the virus cannot remain infectious on them could make a difference in COVID-19 epidemiology. The introduction of additives with virucidal activity could potentiate the protective effects of these barriers to serve not only as physical containment but also as virus killers, reducing surface contamination after hand touch or aerosol deposition. We performed in-depth analysis of the kinetics of photocatalysis-triggered coronavirus inactivation on building glass coated with TiO2. This is the first report showing direct visual evidence (electron microscopy) of coronaviruses being morphologically damaged following exposure to this photocatalyst, demonstrating the high potential of this material to be incorporated into daily-life high-touch surfaces, giving them an added value in decelerating the virus spread.
Collapse
|
40
|
Long-Term Studies of Biological Components of Atmospheric Aerosol: Trends and Variability. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13050651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Biological components of atmospheric aerosol affect the quality of atmospheric air. Long-term trends in changes of the concentrations of total protein (a universal marker of the biogenic component of atmospheric aerosol) and culturable microorganisms in the air are studied. Methods: Atmospheric air samples are taken at two locations in the south of Western Siberia and during airborne sounding of the atmosphere. Sample analysis is carried out in the laboratory using standard culture methods (culturable microorganisms) and the fluorescence method (total protein). Results: Negative trends in the average annual concentration of total protein and culturable microorganisms in the air are revealed over more than 20 years of observations. For the concentration of total protein and culturable microorganisms in the air, intra-annual dynamics is revealed. The ratio of the maximum and minimum values of these concentrations reaches an order of magnitude. The variability of concentrations does not exceed, as a rule, two times for total protein and three times for culturable microorganisms. At the same time, for the data obtained in the course of airborne sounding of the atmosphere, a high temporal stability of the vertical profiles of the studied concentrations was found. The detected biodiversity of culturable microorganisms in atmospheric air samples demonstrates a very high variability at all observation sites. Conclusions: The revealed long-term changes in the biological components of atmospheric aerosol result in a decrease in their contribution to the atmospheric air quality index.
Collapse
|
41
|
Sheikhnejad Y, Aghamolaei R, Fallahpour M, Motamedi H, Moshfeghi M, Mirzaei PA, Bordbar H. Airborne and aerosol pathogen transmission modeling of respiratory events in buildings: An overview of computational fluid dynamics. SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY 2022; 79:103704. [PMID: 35070645 PMCID: PMC8767784 DOI: 10.1016/j.scs.2022.103704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Pathogen droplets released from respiratory events are the primary means of dispersion and transmission of the recent pandemic of COVID-19. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been widely employed as a fast, reliable, and inexpensive technique to support decision-making and to envisage mitigatory protocols. Nonetheless, the airborne pathogen droplet CFD modeling encounters limitations due to the oversimplification of involved physics and the intensive computational demand. Moreover, uncertainties in the collected clinical data required to simulate airborne and aerosol transport such as droplets' initial velocities, tempo-spatial profiles, release angle, and size distributions are broadly reported in the literature. There is a noticeable inconsistency around these collected data amongst many reported studies. This study aims to review the capabilities and limitations associated with CFD modeling. Setting the CFD models needs experimental data of respiratory flows such as velocity, particle size, and number distribution. Therefore, this paper briefly reviews the experimental techniques used to measure the characteristics of airborne pathogen droplet transmissions together with their limitations and reported uncertainties. The relevant clinical data related to pathogen transmission needed for postprocessing of CFD data and translating them to safety measures are also reviewed. Eventually, the uncertainty and inconsistency of the existing clinical data available for airborne pathogen CFD analysis are scurtinized to pave a pathway toward future studies ensuing these identified gaps and limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yahya Sheikhnejad
- Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
- PICadvanced SA, Creative Science Park, Via do Conhecimento, Ed. Central, Ílhavo 3830-352, Portugal
| | - Reihaneh Aghamolaei
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Whitehall, Ireland
| | - Marzieh Fallahpour
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Whitehall, Ireland
| | - Hamid Motamedi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran
| | - Mohammad Moshfeghi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Parham A Mirzaei
- Architecture & Built Environment Department, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, UK
| | - Hadi Bordbar
- School of Engineering, Aalto University, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Rashid TU, Sharmeen S, Biswas S. Effectiveness of N95 Masks against SARS-CoV-2: Performance Efficiency, Concerns, and Future Directions. ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY 2022; 29:135-164. [PMID: 37556270 PMCID: PMC8768005 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chas.1c00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, which is caused by novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has continued to spread around the world since December 2019. Healthcare workers and other medical first responders in particular need personal protective equipment to protect their respiratory system from airborne particulates, in addition to liquid splashes to the face. N95 respirator have become a critical component for reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission and controlling the scale of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a major dispute concerning the protective performance of N95 respirators has erupted, with a myriad of healthcare workers affected despite wearing N95 masks. This article reviews the most recent updates about the performance of N95 respirators in protecting against the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the present pandemic situation. A brief overview of the manufacturing methods, air filtration mechanisms, stability, and reusability of the mask is provided. A detailed performance evaluation of the mask is studied from an engineering point of view. This Review also reports on a comparative study about the protective performance of all commercially available surgical and respiratory masks used to combat the spread of COVID-19. With the aim of protecting healthcare providers more efficiently, we suggest some potential directions for the development of this respiratory mask that improve the performance efficiency of the mask.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taslim Ur Rashid
- Fiber and Polymer Science, Department of Textile
Engineering, Chemistry and Science, Wilson College of Textiles, North
Carolina State University, 1020 Main Campus Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina
27695, United States
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical
Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of
Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Sadia Sharmeen
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical
Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of
Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
- Chemistry Department, University of
Nebraska−Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588, United
States
| | - Shanta Biswas
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical
Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of
Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
- Department of Chemistry, Louisiana State
University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United
States
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Peimbert M, Alcaraz LD. Where environmental microbiome meets its host: subway and passenger microbiome relationships. Mol Ecol 2022; 32:2602-2618. [PMID: 35318755 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Subways are urban transport systems with high capacity. Every day around the world, there are more than 150 million subway passengers. Since 2013, thousands of microbiome samples from various subways worldwide have been sequenced. Skin bacteria and environmental organisms dominate the subway microbiomes. The literature has revealed common bacterial groups in subway systems; even so, it is possible to identify cities by their microbiome. Low-frequency bacteria are responsible for specific bacterial fingerprints of each subway system. Furthermore, daily subway commuters leave their microbial clouds and interact with other passengers. Microbial exchange is quite fast; the hand microbiome changes within minutes, and after cleaning the handrails, the bacteria are re-established within minutes. To investigate new taxa and metabolic pathways of subway microbial communities, several high-quality metagenomic-assembled genomes (MAG) have been described. Subways are harsh environments unfavorable for microorganism growth. However, recent studies have observed a wide diversity of viable and metabolically active bacteria. Understanding which bacteria are living, dormant, or dead allows us to propose realistic ecological interactions. Questions regarding the relationship between humans and the subway microbiome, particularly the microbiome effects on personal and public health, remain unanswered. This review summarizes our knowledge of subway microbiomes and their relationship with passenger microbiomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Peimbert
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Unidad Cuajimalpa, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana. Ciudad de México, México
| | - Luis D Alcaraz
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Pollen Monitoring by Optical Microscopy and DNA Metabarcoding: Comparative Study and New Insights. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052624. [PMID: 35270312 PMCID: PMC8910172 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Environmental samples collected in Brindisi (Italy) by a Hirst-type trap and in Lecce (Italy) by a PM10 sampler were analysed by optical microscopy and DNA-metabarcoding, respectively, to identify airborne pollen and perform an exploratory study, highlighting the benefits and limits of both sampling/detection systems. The Hirst-type trap/optical-microscopy system allowed detecting pollen on average over the full bloom season, since whole pollen grains, whose diameter vary within 10–100 μm, are required for morphological detection with optical microscopy. Conversely, pollen fragments with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm were collected in Lecce by the PM10 sampler. Pollen grains and fragments are spread worldwide by wind/atmospheric turbulences and can age in the atmosphere, but aerial dispersal, aging, and long-range transport of pollen fragments are favoured over those of whole pollen grains because of their smaller size. Twenty-four Streptophyta families were detected in Lecce throughout the sampling year, but only nine out of them were in common with the 21 pollen families identified in Brindisi. Meteorological parameters and advection patterns were rather similar at both study sites, being only 37 km apart in a beeline, but their impact on the sample taxonomic structure was different, likely for the different pollen sampling/detection systems used in the two monitoring areas.
Collapse
|
45
|
Henriques A, Mounet N, Aleixo L, Elson P, Devine J, Azzopardi G, Andreini M, Rognlien M, Tarocco N, Tang J. Modelling airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 using CARA: risk assessment for enclosed spaces. Interface Focus 2022; 12:20210076. [PMID: 35261732 PMCID: PMC8831086 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2021.0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a proper risk assessment of respiratory pathogens in indoor settings. This paper documents the COVID Airborne Risk Assessment methodology, to assess the potential exposure of airborne SARS-CoV-2 viruses, with an emphasis on virological and immunological factors in the quantification of the risk. The model results from a multidisciplinary approach linking physical, mechanical and biological domains, enabling decision makers or facility managers to assess their indoor setting. The model was benchmarked against clinical data, as well as two real-life outbreaks, showing good agreement. A probability of infection is computed in several everyday-life settings and with various mitigation measures. The importance of super-emitters in airborne transmission is confirmed: 20% of infected hosts can emit approximately two orders of magnitude more viral-containing particles. The use of masks provides a fivefold reduction in viral emissions. Natural ventilation strategies are very effective to decrease the concentration of virions, although periodic venting strategies are not ideal in certain settings. Although vaccination is an effective measure against hospitalization, their effectiveness against transmission is not optimal, hence non-pharmaceutical interventions (ventilation, masks) should be actively supported. We also propose a critical threshold to define an acceptable risk level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andre Henriques
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Mounet
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Luis Aleixo
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philip Elson
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - James Devine
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Marco Andreini
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Markus Rognlien
- NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), Torgarden, Norway
| | - Nicola Tarocco
- CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julian Tang
- Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Angel DM, Gao D, DeLay K, Lin EZ, Eldred J, Arnold W, Santiago R, Redlich C, Martinello RA, Sherman JD, Peccia J, Godri Pollitt KJ. Development and Application of a Polydimethylsiloxane-Based Passive Air Sampler to Assess Personal Exposure to SARS-CoV-2. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2022; 9:153-159. [PMID: 37566382 PMCID: PMC8768000 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.1c00877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Exhaled respiratory droplets and aerosols can carry infectious viruses and are an important mode of transmission for COVID-19. Recent studies have been successful in detecting airborne SARS-CoV-2 RNA in indoor settings using active sampling methods. The cost, size, and maintenance of these samplers, however, limit their long-term monitoring ability in high-risk transmission areas. As an alternative, passive samplers can be small, lightweight, and inexpensive and do not require electrical power or maintenance for continual operation. Integration of passive samplers into wearable designs can be used to better understand personal exposure to the respiratory virus. This study evaluated the use of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based passive sampler to assess personal exposure to aerosol and droplet SARS-CoV-2. The rate of uptake of virus-laden aerosol on PDMS was determined in lab-based rotating drum experiments to estimate time-weighted averaged airborne viral concentrations from passive sampler viral loading. The passive sampler was then embedded in a wearable clip design and distributed to community members across Connecticut to surveil personal SARS-CoV-2 exposure. The virus was detected on clips worn by five of the 62 participants (8%) with personal exposure ranging from 4 to 112 copies of SARS-CoV-2 RNA/m3, predominantly in indoor restaurant settings. Our findings demonstrate that PDMS-based passive samplers may serve as a useful exposure assessment tool for airborne viral exposure in real-world high-risk settings and provide avenues for early detection of potential cases and guidance on site-specific infection control protocols that preempt community transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darryl M. Angel
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering,
Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale
University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United
States
| | - Dong Gao
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences,
Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut 06520,
United States
| | - Kayley DeLay
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering,
Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale
University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United
States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences,
Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut 06520,
United States
| | - Elizabeth Z. Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences,
Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut 06520,
United States
| | - Jacob Eldred
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials
Science, Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale
University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United
States
| | - Wyatt Arnold
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering,
Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale
University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United
States
| | - Romero Santiago
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale
School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, United
States
| | - Carrie Redlich
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale
School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, United
States
| | - Richard A. Martinello
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale
School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, United
States
- Department of Infection Prevention, Yale
New Haven Health System, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, United
States
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of
Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, United
States
| | - Jodi D. Sherman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences,
Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut 06520,
United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of
Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, United
States
| | - Jordan Peccia
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering,
Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale
University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United
States
| | - Krystal J. Godri Pollitt
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering,
Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale
University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United
States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences,
Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut 06520,
United States
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Persson A, Atroshi I, Tyszkiewicz T, Hailer N, Lazarinis S, Eisler T, Brismar H, Mukka S, Kernell PJ, Mohaddes M, Sköldenberg O, Gordon M. EPOS trial: the effect of air filtration through a plasma chamber on the incidence of surgical site infection in orthopaedic surgery: a study protocol of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e047500. [PMID: 35115346 PMCID: PMC8814745 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is controversy regarding the importance of air-transmitted infections for surgical site infections (SSIs) after orthopaedic surgery. Research has been hindered by both the inability in blinding the exposure, and by the need for recruiting large enough cohorts. The aim of this study is to investigate whether using a new form of air purifier using plasma air purification (PAP) in operating rooms (ORs) lowers the SSI rate or not. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Multicentre, double-blind, cluster-randomised, placebo-controlled trial conducted at seven hospitals in 2017-2022. All patients that undergo orthopaedic surgery for minimum 30 min are included. Intervention group: patients operated in OR with PAP devices turned on. CONTROL GROUP patients operated in OR with PAP devices turned off. Randomisation: each OR will be randomised in periods of 4 weeks, 6 weeks or 8 weeks to either have the devices on or off. PRIMARY OUTCOME any SSI postoperatively defined as a composite endpoint of any of the following: use of isoxazolylpenicillin, clindamycin or rifampicin for 2 days or more, International Classification of Diseases codes or Nordic Medico-Statistical Committee codes indicating postoperative infection. In a second step, we will perform a chart review on those patients with positive indicators of SSI to further validate the outcome. Secondary outcomes are described in the Methods section. Power: we assume an SSI rate of 2%, an SSI reduction rate of 25% and we need approximately 45 000 patients to attain a power of 80% at a significance level of 0.05. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study is approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority. The interim analysis results from the study will be presented only to the researchers involved unless the study thereafter is interrupted for whatever reason. Publication in a medical journal will be presented after inclusion of the last patient. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02695368.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anders Persson
- Karolinska Institutet Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper Danderyds sjukhus, Danderyd, Sweden
| | - Isam Atroshi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Orthopaedics, Hässleholm-Kristianstad Hospitals, Kristianstad, Sweden
| | - Thomas Tyszkiewicz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Orthopaedics, Hässleholm-Kristianstad Hospitals, Kristianstad, Sweden
| | - Nils Hailer
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Orthopaedics, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stergios Lazarinis
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Orthopaedics, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas Eisler
- Karolinska Institutet Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper Danderyds sjukhus, Danderyd, Sweden
| | - Harald Brismar
- Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute, Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Orthopaedics and Biotechnology, Karolinska Universitetsjukhuset i Huddinge, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Mukka
- Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Umeå University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Per-Juan Kernell
- GHP Ortho Center Stockholm, Löwenströmska Hospital, Upplands Väsby, Sweden
| | - Maziar Mohaddes
- Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Orthopaedics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University Of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Olof Sköldenberg
- Karolinska Institutet Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper Danderyds sjukhus, Danderyd, Sweden
| | - Max Gordon
- Karolinska Institutet Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper Danderyds sjukhus, Danderyd, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Barnes NM, Wu H. Mechanisms regulating the airborne survival of Klebsiella pneumoniae under different relative humidity and temperature levels. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e12991. [PMID: 35225398 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In this study, Klebsiella pneumoniae was suspended in synthetic saliva in a nebulizer (N0 ) and nebulized for 5 min (N5 ) into an aerosol chamber and further prolonged in the aerosolization phase for 15 min (A15 ) under four different conditions: 20°C, 50% relative humidity (RH); 20°C, 80% RH; 30°C, 50% RH; and 30°C, 80% RH. Samples were collected at N0 , N5 , and A15 , then subjected to survival analysis and comparative transcriptomic analysis in order to help elucidate the underlying mechanisms of airborne survival. Survival analysis shows that a higher humidity and lower temperature were favorable for the airborne survival of K. pneumoniae, and the effect of RH was more remarkable at 20°C than that at 30°C. The RNA-seq results show that during the nebulization phase (N0 vs. N5 ), a total number of 201 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (103 downregulated and 98 upregulated). Comparison between nebulization and aerosolization phases (N5 vs. A15 ) indicates up to 132 DEGs, with 46 downregulated and 86 upregulated. The most notable groups of genes are those involved in cellular remodeling, metabolism and energy processes. Alarmingly, the mbl gene, which encodes antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae, was upregulated during the suspension phase under all the tested conditions. This study provides insights into the control of airborne transmitted diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Maria Barnes
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
- Biological Oceanography Division, CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, India
| | - Haoxiang Wu
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Bioresource and Agriculture, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Nguyen TT, Johnson GR, Bell SC, Knibbs LD. A Systematic Literature Review of Indoor Air Disinfection Techniques for Airborne Bacterial Respiratory Pathogens. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031197. [PMID: 35162224 PMCID: PMC8834760 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Interrupting the transmission of airborne (<≈5 µm) respiratory pathogens indoors is not a new challenge, but it has attracted unprecedented interest due to the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020–2021. However, bacterial respiratory pathogens with known or potential airborne transmission account for an appreciable proportion of the communicable disease burden globally. We aimed to systematically review quantitative, laboratory-based studies of air disinfection techniques for airborne respiratory bacteria. Three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) were searched, following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 9596 articles were identified, of which 517 were assessed in detail and of which 26 met the inclusion and quality assessment criteria. Seven air disinfection techniques, including UV-C light, filtration, and face masks, among others, were applied to 13 different bacterial pathogens. More than 80% of studies suggested that air disinfection techniques were more effective at inactivating or killing bacteria than the comparator or baseline condition. However, it was not possible to compare these techniques because of methodological heterogeneity and the relatively small number of the studies. Laboratory studies are useful for demonstrating proof-of-concept and performance under controlled conditions. However, the generalisability of their findings to person-to-person transmission in real-world settings is unclear for most of the pathogens and techniques we assessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thi Tham Nguyen
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Graham R. Johnson
- School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
| | - Scott C. Bell
- Children’s Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
- Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre, The Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside, QLD 4032, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Luke D. Knibbs
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Colston JM, Zaitchik BF, Badr HS, Burnett E, Ali SA, Rayamajhi A, Satter SM, Eibach D, Krumkamp R, May J, Chilengi R, Howard LM, Sow SO, Jahangir Hossain M, Saha D, Imran Nisar M, Zaidi AKM, Kanungo S, Mandomando I, Faruque ASG, Kotloff KL, Levine MM, Breiman RF, Omore R, Page N, Platts‐Mills JA, Ashorn U, Fan Y, Shrestha PS, Ahmed T, Mduma E, Yori PP, Bhutta Z, Bessong P, Olortegui MP, Lima AAM, Kang G, Humphrey J, Prendergast AJ, Ntozini R, Okada K, Wongboot W, Gaensbauer J, Melgar MT, Pelkonen T, Freitas CM, Kosek MN. Associations Between Eight Earth Observation-Derived Climate Variables and Enteropathogen Infection: An Independent Participant Data Meta-Analysis of Surveillance Studies With Broad Spectrum Nucleic Acid Diagnostics. GEOHEALTH 2022; 6:e2021GH000452. [PMID: 35024531 PMCID: PMC8729196 DOI: 10.1029/2021gh000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Diarrheal disease, still a major cause of childhood illness, is caused by numerous, diverse infectious microorganisms, which are differentially sensitive to environmental conditions. Enteropathogen-specific impacts of climate remain underexplored. Results from 15 studies that diagnosed enteropathogens in 64,788 stool samples from 20,760 children in 19 countries were combined. Infection status for 10 common enteropathogens-adenovirus, astrovirus, norovirus, rotavirus, sapovirus, Campylobacter, ETEC, Shigella, Cryptosporidium and Giardia-was matched by date with hydrometeorological variables from a global Earth observation dataset-precipitation and runoff volume, humidity, soil moisture, solar radiation, air pressure, temperature, and wind speed. Models were fitted for each pathogen, accounting for lags, nonlinearity, confounders, and threshold effects. Different variables showed complex, non-linear associations with infection risk varying in magnitude and direction depending on pathogen species. Rotavirus infection decreased markedly following increasing 7-day average temperatures-a relative risk of 0.76 (95% confidence interval: 0.69-0.85) above 28°C-while ETEC risk increased by almost half, 1.43 (1.36-1.50), in the 20-35°C range. Risk for all pathogens was highest following soil moistures in the upper range. Humidity was associated with increases in bacterial infections and decreases in most viral infections. Several virus species' risk increased following lower-than-average rainfall, while rotavirus and ETEC increased with heavier runoff. Temperature, soil moisture, and humidity are particularly influential parameters across all enteropathogens, likely impacting pathogen survival outside the host. Precipitation and runoff have divergent associations with different enteric viruses. These effects may engender shifts in the relative burden of diarrhea-causing agents as the global climate changes.
Collapse
|