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Chelly S, Jaziri S, Ammar A, Ezzi O, Douss N, Saffar S, Tritar M, Njah M, Mahjoub M. Safety and efficiency of COVID-19 vaccine in North Africa. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2306703. [PMID: 38304972 PMCID: PMC10841012 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2306703] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In the absence of a specific treatment for COVID-19, preventive measures have been implemented to control this pandemic and vaccination is one of them. However, it is crucial to verify the safety and efficiency of every vaccine. The aim was to determinate the predictive factors of side effects and reinfection after COVID-19 vaccine. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2022 among Tunisians infected with COVID-19 between March 2020 and February 2022, using an online self-administered questionnaire. We conducted univariate and multivariate analyses using binary stepwise logistic regression. Results A total of 1541 was selected from 1911 individuals. Comorbidities affected a quarter of the population (22.3%). Before the initial infection, 39.3% had received full vaccination, and 8.7% had received partial vaccination. By February 2022, the majority (82.9%) had received at least two vaccine doses. The reinfection rate was 30.6%. All vaccines prior to the first infection was identified as a protective factor against reinfection. Inactivated virus vaccinations were less likely to induce adverse effects. Conclusion ach vaccine has its own set of advantages and disadvantages: mRNA-based vaccines had a higher incidence of side effects but all vaccines provided better protection against reinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souhir Chelly
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Shayma Jaziri
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Asma Ammar
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Ezzi
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Nour Douss
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Sonia Saffar
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Marouen Tritar
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Mansour Njah
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Mahjoub
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
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Banerjee T, Gosai A, Yousefi N, Garibay OO, Seal S, Balasubramanian G. Examining sialic acid derivatives as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6342-6358. [PMID: 37424217 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2234044] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) has been the primary reason behind the COVID-19 global pandemic which has affected millions of lives worldwide. The fundamental cause of the infection is the molecular binding of the viral spike protein receptor binding domain (SP-RBD) with the human cell angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The infection can be prevented if the binding of RBD-ACE2 is resisted by utilizing certain inhibitors or drugs that demonstrate strong binding affinity towards the SP RBD. Sialic acid based glycans found widely in human cells and tissues have notable propensity of binding to viral proteins of the coronaviridae family. Recent experimental literature have used N-acetyl neuraminic acid (Sialic acid) to create diagnostic sensors for SARS-CoV-2, but a detailed interrogation of the underlying molecular mechanisms is warranted. Here, we perform all atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for the complexes of certain Sialic acid-based molecules with that of SP RBD of SARS CoV-2. Our results indicate that Sialic acid not only reproduces a binding affinity comparable to the RBD-ACE2 interactions, it also assumes the longest time to dissociate completely from the protein binding pocket of SP RBD. Our predictions corroborate that a combination of electrostatic and van der Waals energies as well the polar hydrogen bond interactions between the RBD residues and the inhibitors influence free energy of binding.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanumoy Banerjee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | | | - Niloofar Yousefi
- Industrial Engineering and Management Systems, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Ozlem Ozmen Garibay
- Industrial Engineering and Management Systems, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Sudipta Seal
- College of Medicine, Bionix Cluster, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
- Advanced Materials Processing and Analysis Center, Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Ganesh Balasubramanian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
- Institute of Functional Materials & Devices and College of Health, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
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Rodriguez Lima DR, Rubio Ramos C, Diaz Quiroz MA, Rodríguez Aparicio EE, Gómez Cortes LA, Otálora González L, Hernández-Herrera G, Pinzón Rondón ÁM, Ruiz Sternberg ÁM. Resilience and quality of life in patients who underwent mechanical ventilation due to COVID-19, one year after discharge: a cross-sectional study. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2024; 8:70. [PMID: 38995437 PMCID: PMC11245452 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-024-00748-2] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with COVID-19 often experience severe long-term sequelae. This study aimed to assess resilience and Quality of Life (QoL) of patients who underwent mechanical ventilation due to COVID-19, one year after discharge. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled patients who received mechanical ventilation for severe COVID-19 and were assessed one-year post-discharge. Participants completed a structured questionnaire via telephone comprising the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status scale (PCFS). To establish the association between QoL and resilience, Spearman correlations were calculated between the PCFS and the CD-RISC. Linear regression models were adjusted to evaluate which factors were associated with QoL, with the total score of PCFS as the dependent variable. RESULTS A total of 225 patients were included in the analysis. The CD-RISC had a median score of 83 (IQR 74-91). The PCFS results showed that 61.3% (n = 138) of the patients were able to resume their daily activities without limitations. Among them, 37.3% (n = 84) were classified as Grade 0 and 24% (n = 54) as Grade 1. Mild and moderate functional limitations were found in 33.7% of the patients, with 24.8% (n = 56) classified as Grade 2 and 8.8% (n = 20) as Grade 3. Severe functional limitations (Grade 4) were observed in 4.8% (n = 11) of the patients. High CD-RISC scores were associated with lower levels of PCFS score (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of critically ill patients who underwent mechanical ventilation due to COVID-19, 38% of patients experienced a significant decline in their QoL one year after hospital discharge. Finally, a high level of resilience was strongly associated with better QoL one year after discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Rene Rodriguez Lima
- Critical and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Universitario Mayor-Méderi, Bogotá, Colombia.
- Grupo de Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
- Doctorado Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Cristhian Rubio Ramos
- Critical and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Universitario Mayor-Méderi, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Mateo Andrés Diaz Quiroz
- Grupo de Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Laura Otálora González
- Facultad de Medicina, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Gilma Hernández-Herrera
- Doctorado Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ángela María Pinzón Rondón
- Grupo de Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- Doctorado Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ángela María Ruiz Sternberg
- Grupo de Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- Doctorado Investigación Clínica, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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Dietz TK, Brondstater KN. Long COVID management: a mini review of current recommendations and underutilized modalities. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1430444. [PMID: 38947233 PMCID: PMC11211541 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1430444] [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: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Long COVID is a condition that develops in a subset of patients after COVID-19 infection comprising of symptoms of varying severity encompassing multiple organ systems. Currently, long COVID is without consensus on a formal definition, identifiable biomarkers, and validated treatment. Long COVID is expected to be a long-term chronic condition for a subset of patients and is associated with suffering and incapacity. There is an urgent need for clear management guidelines for the primary care provider, who is essential in bridging the gap with more specialized care to improve quality of life and functionality in their patients living with long COVID. The purpose of this mini review is to provide primary care providers with the latest highlights from existing literature regarding the most common long COVID symptoms and current management recommendations. This review also highlights the underutilized interventions of stellate ganglion blocks and low-dose naltrexone, both with well-established safety profiles demonstrated to improve quality of life and functionality for patients suffering with some symptoms of long COVID, and encourages prompt referral to interventional pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany K. Dietz
- School of Health Professions, Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, United States
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Bailón-Cuenca JA, Cortés-Sarabia K, Legorreta-Soberanis J, Alvarado-Castro VM, Juárez-Baltazar U, Sánchez-Gervacio BM, Vences-Velázquez A, Leyva-Vázquez MA, Del Moral-Hernández O, Illades-Aguiar B. Detection of IgG antibodies against the receptor binding domain of the spike protein and nucleocapsid of SARS-CoV-2 at university students from Southern Mexico: a cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:584. [PMID: 38867165 PMCID: PMC11170790 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09435-5] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural infection and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 is associated with the development of immunity against the structural proteins of the virus. Specifically, the two most immunogenic are the S (spike) and N (nucleocapsid) proteins. Seroprevalence studies performed in university students provide information to estimate the number of infected patients (symptomatic or asymptomatic) and generate knowledge about the viral spread, vaccine efficacy, and epidemiological control. Which, the aim of this study was to evaluate IgG antibodies against the S and N proteins of SARS-CoV-2 at university students from Southern Mexico. METHODS A total of 1418 serum samples were collected from eighteen work centers of the Autonomous University of Guerrero. Antibodies were detected by Indirect ELISA using as antigen peptides derived from the S and N proteins. RESULTS We reported a total seroprevalence of 39.9% anti-S/N (positive to both antigens), 14.1% anti-S and 0.5% anti-N. The highest seroprevalence was reported in the work centers from Costa Grande, Acapulco and Centro. Seroprevalence was associated with age, COVID-19, contact with infected patients, and vaccination. CONCLUSION University students could play an essential role in disseminating SARS-CoV-2. We reported a seroprevalence of 54.5% against the S and N proteins, which could be due to the high population rate and cultural resistance to safety measures against COVID-19 in the different regions of the state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Adolfo Bailón-Cuenca
- Laboratorio de Inmunobiología y Diagnóstico Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México
| | - Karen Cortés-Sarabia
- Laboratorio de Inmunobiología y Diagnóstico Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México
| | - José Legorreta-Soberanis
- Centro de Investigación de Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Acapulco, Guerrero, México
| | | | - Ulises Juárez-Baltazar
- Laboratorio de Inmunobiología y Diagnóstico Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México
| | | | - Amalia Vences-Velázquez
- Laboratorio de Inmunobiología y Diagnóstico Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México
| | - Marco Antonio Leyva-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México
| | - Oscar Del Moral-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Virología, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero. Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México.
| | - Berenice Illades-Aguiar
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo, Guerrero, México.
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Wardhani YF, Nantabah ZK, Machfutra ED, Lestyoningrum SD, Oktarina, Nurjana MA. The prevalence and distribution of risk factors for depression and emotional mental disorders in the elderly in Indonesia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2024; 70:763-771. [PMID: 38369697 DOI: 10.1177/00207640241227381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a mental health disorder. The prevalence of mental health disorders in the elderly is high. AIMS This study was to determine the mental status depression and emotional of the elderly based on their characteristics. METHODS This study was a further analysis of Basic Health Research 2018 data. The population was all households from all districts/cities in 33 provinces in Indonesia with a cross-sectional design. The sample was all elderly, with a total sample of 82,304,000 people. The respondents included young elderly (60-69 years), middle elderly (70-79 years), and old elderly (>80 years). RESULT Depression is experienced by most of elderly aged 60 to 69 years as many as 3,756,384 respondents (59.72%), females as many as 3,885,191 respondents (61.77%), living in urban areas, as many as 3,147,131 respondents (50.03%), graduated from elementary school as many as 2,052,22 respondents (32.63%), not working as many as 3,535,241 respondents (56.21%), and quintile one expenditure level as many as 1,532,358 respondents (24.36%). CONCLUSIONS Emotional disorders of depression in elderly are due to the adaptation process to physical and psychosocial changes. Family support is a must to improve elderly's quality of life on mental health aspects, especially depression. Furthermore, better treatment by medical personnel is required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Oktarina
- National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta, Indonesia
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Yue C, Yuya H, Zhihuan L, Zimo W, Jianying F. Study on the disinfection effect of chlorine dioxide disinfectant (ClO 2) on dental unit waterlines and its in vitro safety evaluation. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:648. [PMID: 38824549 PMCID: PMC11143753 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04391-7] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ensuring the safety of dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) has become a pivotal issue in dental care practices, focusing on the health implications for both patients and healthcare providers. The inherent structure and usage conditions of DUWLs contribute to the risk of biofilm formation and bacterial growth, highlighting the need for effective disinfection solutions.The quest for a disinfection method that is both safe for clinical use and effective against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in DUWLs underscores the urgency of this research. MATERIALS Chlorine dioxide disinfectants at concentrations of 5, 20, and 80 mg/L were used to treat biofilms of S. aureus and E. coli cultured in DUWLs. The disinfection effectiveness was assessed through bacterial counts and culturing. Simultaneously, human skin fibroblast cells were treated with the disinfectant to observe changes in cell morphology and cytotoxicity. Additionally, the study included corrosion tests on various metals (carbon steel, brass, stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). RESULTS Experimental results showed that chlorine dioxide disinfectants at concentrations of 20 mg/L and 80 mg/L significantly reduced the bacterial count of S. aureus and E. coli, indicating effective disinfection. In terms of cytotoxicity, higher concentrations were more harmful to cellular safety, but even at 80 mg/L, the cytotoxicity of chlorine dioxide remained within controllable limits. Corrosion tests revealed that chlorine dioxide disinfectants had a certain corrosive effect on carbon steel and brass, and the degree of corrosion increased with the concentration of the disinfectant. CONCLUSION After thorough research, we recommend using chlorine dioxide disinfectant at a concentration of 20 mg/L for significantly reducing bacterial biofilms in dental unit waterlines (DUWLs). This concentration also ensures satisfactory cell safety and metal corrosion resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cao Yue
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Hu Yuya
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Liu Zhihuan
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Wang Zimo
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Feng Jianying
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China.
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Hori T, Shimizu T, Ando H, Okada N, Yamagami H, Yasui S, Hosoki M, Tojima A, Otoda T, Yuasa T, Aihara KI, Takishita M, Yoshida S, Abe M, Ishida T, Nakamura S. Humoral immune response against SARS-CoV-2 and polyethylene glycol elicited by anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine, and effect of pre-existing anti-polyethylene glycol antibody in patients with hematological and autoimmune diseases. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31489. [PMID: 38813140 PMCID: PMC11133887 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31489] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The effects of vaccination are modified by hematological and autoimmune diseases and/or treatment. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine contains polyethylene glycol (PEG), it is largely unknown whether PEG influences the effects of vaccination or induces a humoral response. This study examined whether anti-PEG antibodies before vaccination (pre-existing) influenced the acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and evaluated the relationship between the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and anti-PEG antibodies after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in hematological and autoimmune diseases. Methods Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody IgG, anti-PEG IgG, and IgM titers were evaluated in patients with hematological and autoimmune diseases after the second dose of BNT162B2. Anti-PEG IgG and IgM titers were also measured before vaccination to examine changes after vaccination and the relationship with vaccine efficacy. Results In patients with hematological (n = 182) and autoimmune diseases (n = 96), anti-SARS-CoV-2 and anti-PEG antibody titers were evaluated after a median of 33 days from 2nd vaccination. The median anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers were 1901 AU/mL and 3832 AU/mL in patients with hematological and autoimmune disease, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that age and days from 2nd vaccination were negatively associated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers. Anti-CD20 antibody treatment was negatively correlated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers in hematological disease, and C-reactive protein (CRP) was positively correlated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers in autoimmune disease. Baseline anti-PEG antibody titers were significantly higher in patients with autoimmune disease but were not correlated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers. Patients with increased anti-PEG IgG acquired higher anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers in patients with autoimmune disease. Conclusions Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody acquisition was suboptimal in patients with hematological disease, but both anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody and anti-PEG IgG were acquired in patients with autoimmune disease, reflecting robust humoral immune response. Pre-existing anti-PEG antibody titers did not affect anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiki Hori
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Taro Shimizu
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hidenori Ando
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Naoto Okada
- Pharmacy Department, Yamaguchi University Hospital, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yamagami
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Saya Yasui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Minae Hosoki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Akihiro Tojima
- Department of Rheumatology, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshiki Otoda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
- Department of Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Yuasa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
- Department of Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Ken-ichi Aihara
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
- Department of Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Makoto Takishita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Anan Medical Center, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Sumiko Yoshida
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Shikoku Medical Center for Children and Adults, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Masahiro Abe
- Department of Hematology, Kawashima Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Ishida
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shingen Nakamura
- Department of Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
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Shen J, Li J, Lei Y, Chen Z, Wu L, Lin C. Frontiers and hotspots evolution in cytokine storm: A bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2022. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30955. [PMID: 38774317 PMCID: PMC11107250 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30955] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background As a fatal disease, cytokine storm has garnered research attention in recent years. Nonetheless, as the body of related studies expands, a thorough and impartial evaluation of the current status of research on cytokine storms remains absent. Consequently, this study aimed to thoroughly explore the research landscape and evolution of cytokine storm utilizing bibliometric and knowledge graph approaches. Methods Research articles and reviews centered on cytokine storms were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. For bibliometric analysis, tools such as Excel 365, CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the Bibliometrix R package were utilized. Results This bibliometric analysis encompassed 6647 articles published between 2004 and 2022. The quantity of pertinent articles and citation frequency exhibited a yearly upward trend, with a sharp increase starting in 2020. Network analysis of collaborations reveals that the United States holds a dominant position in this area, boasting the largest publication count and leading institutions. Frontiers in Immunology ranks as the leading journal for the largest publication count in this area. Stephan A. Grupp, a prominent researcher in this area, has authored the largest publication count and has the second-highest citation frequency. Research trends and keyword evaluations show that the connection between cytokine storm and COVID-19, as well as cytokine storm treatment, are hot topics in research. Furthermore, research on cytokine storm and COVID-19 sits at the forefront in this area. Conclusion This study employed bibliometric analysis to create a visual representation of cytokine storm research, revealing current trends and burgeoning topics in this area for the first time. It will provide valuable insights, helping scholars pinpoint critical research areas and potential collaborators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Shen
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaming Li
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuqi Lei
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengrui Chen
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chunyan Lin
- Department of Teaching and Research Section of Internal Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Popotas A, Casimir GJ, Corazza F, Lefèvre N. Sex-related immunity: could Toll-like receptors be the answer in acute inflammatory response? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379754. [PMID: 38835761 PMCID: PMC11148260 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379754] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have highlighted the existence of a sex-specific immune response, wherein men experience a worse prognosis in cases of acute inflammatory diseases. Initially, this sex-dependent inflammatory response was attributed to the influence of sex hormones. However, a growing body of evidence has shifted the focus toward the influence of chromosomes rather than sex hormones in shaping these inflammatory sex disparities. Notably, certain pattern recognition receptors, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and their associated immune pathways have been implicated in driving the sex-specific immune response. These receptors are encoded by genes located on the X chromosome. TLRs are pivotal components of the innate immune system, playing crucial roles in responding to infectious diseases, including bacterial and viral pathogens, as well as trauma-related conditions. Importantly, the TLR-mediated inflammatory responses, as indicated by the production of specific proteins and cytokines, exhibit discernible sex-dependent patterns. In this review, we delve into the subject of sex bias in TLR activation and explore its clinical implications relatively to both the X chromosome and the hormonal environment. The overarching objective is to enhance our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying these sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Popotas
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Georges Jacques Casimir
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pulmonology, Allergology and Cystic Fibrosis, Queen Fabiola Childrens University Hospital (Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola) – University Hospital of Brussels (Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francis Corazza
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Lefèvre
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pulmonology, Allergology and Cystic Fibrosis, Queen Fabiola Childrens University Hospital (Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola) – University Hospital of Brussels (Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles), Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Al-Wakeel RE, Hamama HH, Farahat DS, El-Negoly SA. Microhardness and elemental analysis of ion-releasing restoration/ dentin interface following enzymatic chemomechanical caries excavation. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:581. [PMID: 38764034 PMCID: PMC11103859 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04304-8] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was conducted to compare chemical, elemental and surface properties of sound and carious dentin after application of two restorative materials resin-modified glassionomer claimed to be bioactive and glass hybrid restorative material after enzymatic chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) agent. METHODS Forty carious and twenty non-carious human permanent molars were used. Molars were randomly distributed into three main groups: Group 1 (negative control) - sound molars, Group 2 (positive control) - molars were left without caries removal and Group 3 (Test Group) caries excavated with enzymatic based CMCR agent. After caries excavation and restoration application, all specimens were prepared Vickers microhardness test (VHN), for elemental analysis using Energy Dispersive Xray (EDX) mapping and finally chemical analysis using Micro-Raman microscopy. RESULTS Vickers microhardness values of dentin with the claimed bioactive GIC specimens was statistically higher than with glass hybrid GIC specimens. EDX analysis at the junction estimated: Calcium and Phosphorus of the glass hybrid GIC showed insignificantly higher mean valued than that of the bioactive GIC. Silica and Aluminum mean values at the junction were significantly higher with bioactive GIC specimens than glass hybrid GIC specimen. Micro-raman spectroscopy revealed that bioactive GIC specimens showed higher frequencies of v 1 PO 4, which indicated high level of remineralization. CONCLUSIONS It was concluded that ion-releasing bioactive resin-based restorative material had increased the microhardness and remineralization rate of carries affected and sound dentin. In addition, enzymatic caries excavation with papain-based CMCR agent has no adverse effect on dentin substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana E Al-Wakeel
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Hamdi H Hamama
- Department of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt.
| | - Dina S Farahat
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
- Faculty of Dentistry, New-Mansoura University, New-Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - S A El-Negoly
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
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12
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Almulla N, Soltane R, Alasiri A, Kamal Allayeh A, Alqadi T, Alshehri F, Hamad Alrokban A, Zaghlool SS, Zayan AZ, Abdalla KF, Sayed AM. Advancements in SARS-CoV-2 detection: Navigating the molecular landscape and diagnostic technologies. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29909. [PMID: 38707469 PMCID: PMC11068538 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29909] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
According to information from the World Health Organization, the world has experienced about 430 million cases of COVID-19, a world-wide health crisis caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This outbreak, originating from China in 2019, has led to nearly 6 million deaths worldwide. As the number of confirmed infections continues to rise, the need for cutting-edge techniques that can detect SARS-CoV-2 infections early and accurately has become more critical. To address this, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has issued emergency use authorizations (EUAs) for a wide range of diagnostic tools. These include tests based on detecting nucleic acids and antigen-antibody reactions. The quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) assay stands out as the gold standard for early virus detection. However, despite its accuracy, qRT-PCR has limitations, such as complex testing protocols and a risk of false negatives, which drive the continuous improvement in nucleic acid and serological testing approaches. The emergence of highly contagious variants of the coronavirus, such as Alpha (B.1.1.7), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529), has increased the need for tests that can specifically identify these mutations. This article explores both nucleic acid-based and antigen-antibody serological assays, assessing the performance of recently approved FDA tests and those documented in scientific research, especially in identifying new coronavirus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuha Almulla
- Department of Biology, Adham University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raya Soltane
- Department of Biology, Adham University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahlam Alasiri
- Department of Biology, Adham University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdou Kamal Allayeh
- Virology Lab 176, Environment and Climate Change Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Taha Alqadi
- Department of Biology, Adham University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatma Alshehri
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahlam Hamad Alrokban
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameh S. Zaghlool
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Almaaqal University, 61014, Al-Maaqal, Basra, Iraq
| | - Abdallah Z. Zayan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Collage of Pharmacy, Almaaqal University, 61014, Basrah, Iraq
| | - Karam F. Abdalla
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Collage of Pharmacy, Almaaqal University, 61014, Basrah, Iraq
| | - Ahmed M. Sayed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Collage of Pharmacy, Almaaqal University, 61014, Basrah, Iraq
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Rengiiyiler S, Teközel M. Visual attention is not attuned to non-human animal targets' pathogenicity: an evolutionary mismatch perspective. THE JOURNAL OF GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38733318 DOI: 10.1080/00221309.2024.2349005] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
A considerable amount of research has revealed that there exists an evolutionary mismatch between ancestral environments and conditions following the rise of agriculture regarding the contact between humans and animal reservoirs of infectious diseases. Based on this evolutionary mismatch framework, we examined whether visual attention exhibits adaptive attunement toward animal targets' pathogenicity. Consistent with our predictions, faces bearing heuristic infection cues held attention to a greater extent than did animal vectors of zoonotic infectious diseases. Moreover, the results indicated that attention showed a specialized vigilance toward processing facial cues connoting the presence of infectious diseases, whereas it was allocated comparably between animal disease vectors and disease-irrelevant animals. On the other hand, the pathogen salience manipulation employed to amplify the participants' contextual-level anti-pathogen motives did not moderate the selective allocation of attentional resources. The fact that visual attention seems poorly equipped to detect and encode animals' zoonotic transmission risk supports the idea that our evolved disease avoidance mechanisms might have limited effectiveness in combating global outbreaks originating from zoonotic emerging infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mert Teközel
- Department of Psychology, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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14
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Thippeswamy SN, Nataraju KT. Olfactory Dysfunction in COVID-19 Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital; A Cross-Sectional Observational Study. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY 2024; 36:459-466. [PMID: 38745684 PMCID: PMC11090092 DOI: 10.22038/ijorl.2024.76275.3557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Sudden onset of olfactory dysfunction (OD) manifesting as hyposmia and/or anosmia occurred in many COVID-19 patients, with a frequency as high as 85.6%. Given the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19, it is important to recognize the symptoms early so that the infected person can be diagnosed, isolated and treated early. Hence, this study was undertaken to know the prevalence of Sino-nasal symptoms with special reference to olfactory dysfunction in COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods It is a cross sectional observational study involving 160 COVID-19 patients aged 18 to 100 years selected by universal sampling. OD was analyzed and compared with various inflammatory markers and Sino-nasal symptoms. Patients were followed up until their discharge from the hospital or until death due to COVID-19 related health issues. Results Out of 160 subjects included in the study, 61.88 % of the study participants were males and 38.13% were females. The mean age was 44.50 ± 16.43 years. A total of 51 patients (31.87%) developed OD. Fifty one (31.87%) patients developed OD (anosmia/hyposmia). Among the individuals with anosmia/hyposmia, majority of patients (n=26) (50.98%) complained of more than 75% loss of smell sensation. Mean duration of anosmia/hyposmia was 9.92 ± 3.71 days. OD correlated with serum ferritin levels (p=0.0453). Conclusion Anosmia/hyposmia was found in significant proportion of patients with covid-19 which correlated with the disease severity and serum ferritin levels and hence can serve as surrogate marker of disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamalesh Thagadur Nataraju
- Department of General Medicine, SS Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Davanagere, Karnataka, India.
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15
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Jones-Nosacek C. Vaccine Mandates: Weighing the Common Good vs Personal Conscience and Autonomy. LINACRE QUARTERLY 2024; 91:147-167. [PMID: 38726310 PMCID: PMC11078137 DOI: 10.1177/00243639231213515] [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: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a serious illness with significant morbidity and mortality. Vaccines to immunize against it were developed in record time. Mandates followed. The question to be considered is when mandates are ethical. Mandates can be used to prevent spread of an infection, prevent overwhelming the healthcare system, or protect public safety, thereby protecting the vulnerable and allowing for full flourishing of the common good. At the same time, one must be careful about respecting autonomy by allowing those who consciences do not allow them to be vaccinated to refuse. Because COVID-19 knowledge is rapidly changing as more information is known and the virus mutates, the conditions under which mandates are ethical change as well. At present, since vaccines prevent severe infection and death in high-risk individuals with added benefit for those who are vaccinated and have a history of infection, mandates can be imposed on those individuals. With an estimated 95% of the US population believed to have been infected and prior history of infection shown to be as effective as vaccination, with immunity lasting at least 500 days, and ability to prevent spread unknown at present but limited at best in the past, the vaccines therefore cannot be ethically mandated for those who are low risk for the versions released September 2023 based on information as of October 2023.
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Samson S, Lord É, Makarenkov V. Assessing the emergence time of SARS-CoV-2 zoonotic spillover. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301195. [PMID: 38574109 PMCID: PMC10994396 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the evolution of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and its relationship to other coronaviruses in the wild is crucial for preventing future virus outbreaks. While the origin of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic remains uncertain, mounting evidence suggests the direct involvement of the bat and pangolin coronaviruses in the evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 genome. To unravel the early days of a probable zoonotic spillover event, we analyzed genomic data from various coronavirus strains from both human and wild hosts. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis was performed using multiple datasets, using strict and relaxed clock evolutionary models to estimate the occurrence times of key speciation, gene transfer, and recombination events affecting the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and its closest relatives. We found strong evidence supporting the presence of temporal structure in datasets containing SARS-CoV-2 variants, enabling us to estimate the time of SARS-CoV-2 zoonotic spillover between August and early October 2019. In contrast, datasets without SARS-CoV-2 variants provided mixed results in terms of temporal structure. However, they allowed us to establish that the presence of a statistically robust clade in the phylogenies of gene S and its receptor-binding (RBD) domain, including two bat (BANAL) and two Guangdong pangolin coronaviruses (CoVs), is due to the horizontal gene transfer of this gene from the bat CoV to the pangolin CoV that occurred in the middle of 2018. Importantly, this clade is closely located to SARS-CoV-2 in both phylogenies. This phylogenetic proximity had been explained by an RBD gene transfer from the Guangdong pangolin CoV to a very recent ancestor of SARS-CoV-2 in some earlier works in the field before the BANAL coronaviruses were discovered. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the timeline and evolutionary dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Samson
- Department of Computer Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec, Canada
| | - Étienne Lord
- Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec, Canada
| | - Vladimir Makarenkov
- Department of Computer Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Mila—Quebec AI Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Qian J, Zhang S, Wang F, Li J, Zhang J. What makes SARS-CoV-2 unique? Focusing on the spike protein. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:404-430. [PMID: 38263600 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12130] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) seriously threatens public health and safety. Genetic variants determine the expression of SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins, which are associated with enhanced transmissibility, enhanced virulence, and immune escape. Vaccination is encouraged as a public health intervention, and different types of vaccines are used worldwide. However, new variants continue to emerge, especially the Omicron complex, and the neutralizing antibody responses are diminished significantly. In this review, we outlined the uniqueness of SARS-CoV-2 from three perspectives. First, we described the detailed structure of the spike (S) protein, which is highly susceptible to mutations and contributes to the distinct infection cycle of the virus. Second, we systematically summarized the immunoglobulin G epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 and highlighted the central role of the nonconserved regions of the S protein in adaptive immune escape. Third, we provided an overview of the vaccines targeting the S protein and discussed the impact of the nonconserved regions on vaccine effectiveness. The characterization and identification of the structure and genomic organization of SARS-CoV-2 will help elucidate its mechanisms of viral mutation and infection and provide a basis for the selection of optimal treatments. The leaps in advancements regarding improved diagnosis, targeted vaccines and therapeutic remedies provide sound evidence showing that scientific understanding, research, and technology evolved at the pace of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Qian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shichang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinming Li
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiexin Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Hussein HAM, Thabet AA, Wardany AA, El-Adly AM, Ali M, Hassan MEA, Abdeldayem MAB, Mohamed ARMA, Sobhy A, El-Mokhtar MA, Afifi MM, Fathy SM, Sultan S. SARS-CoV-2 outbreak: role of viral proteins and genomic diversity in virus infection and COVID-19 progression. Virol J 2024; 21:75. [PMID: 38539202 PMCID: PMC10967059 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02342-w] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); a severe respiratory distress that has emerged from the city of Wuhan, Hubei province, China during December 2019. COVID-19 is currently the major global health problem and the disease has now spread to most countries in the world. COVID-19 has profoundly impacted human health and activities worldwide. Genetic mutation is one of the essential characteristics of viruses. They do so to adapt to their host or to move to another one. Viral genetic mutations have a high potentiality to impact human health as these mutations grant viruses unique unpredicted characteristics. The difficulty in predicting viral genetic mutations is a significant obstacle in the field. Evidence indicates that SARS-CoV-2 has a variety of genetic mutations and genomic diversity with obvious clinical consequences and implications. In this review, we comprehensively summarized and discussed the currently available knowledge regarding SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks with a fundamental focus on the role of the viral proteins and their mutations in viral infection and COVID-19 progression. We also summarized the clinical implications of SARS-CoV-2 variants and how they affect the disease severity and hinder vaccine development. Finally, we provided a massive phylogenetic analysis of the spike gene of 214 SARS-CoV-2 isolates from different geographical regions all over the world and their associated clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosni A M Hussein
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Ali A Thabet
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A Wardany
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M El-Adly
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed E A Hassan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A B Abdeldayem
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Ali Sobhy
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, 71524, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A El-Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos Campus, Lebanon
| | - Magdy M Afifi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11884, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samah M Fathy
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt.
| | - Serageldeen Sultan
- Department of Microbiology, Virology Division, Faculty of Veterinary medicine, South Valley University, 83523, Qena, Egypt.
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Fakih TM, Darusman F, Apriliani R, Prahayati S, Ramadhan DSF, Fikri Hidayat A, Rizkita AD, Yuniarta TA. Predicting anti-COVID-19 potential: in silico analysis of Mauritine compound from Ziziphus-spina christi as a promising papain-like protease (PLpro) inhibitor. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38529845 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2322627] [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: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), has led to 164,523,894 confirmed cases and 3,412,032 deaths globally as of May 20, 2021. SARS-CoV-2 encodes crucial proteases for its replication cycle, including the papain-like protease (PLpro), presenting a potential target for developing COVID-19 treatments. Mauritine, a cyclopeptide alkaloid found in the Ziziphus-spina christi plant, exhibits antiviral properties and was investigated for its affinity and toxicity towards PLpro using molecular docking through MGLTools 1.5.6 with Autodock Tools 4.2. Preceding this, toxicity and ADME prediction were performed via Toxtree 3.1.0 software and SwissADME servers. Results from molecular docking revealed free binding energy values of -8.58; -7.73; -8.36; -6.07; -6.67; -7.83; -7.67; -7.40; and -6.87 Kcal/mol for Mauritine-A, Mauritine-B, Mauritine-C, Mauritine-D, Mauritine-F, Mauritine-H, Mauritine-J, Mauritine-L, and Mauritine-M, respectively. Correspondingly, inhibition constants were 0.51724; 2.14; 0.7398; 35.43; 12.95; 1.83; 2.38; 3.80; and 9.17 µM, respectively. Interactions observed included hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and electrostatic interactions between the Mauritine compounds and the receptor. Mauritine-A and Mauritine-C emerged as a promising anti-COVID-19 candidate due to its superior affinity compared to other derivatives, as indicated by research findings. Interestingly, Mauritine-A and Mauritine-C exhibits notable stability as depicted by the RMSD and RMSF graphs, along with a considerable MM-PBSA binding free energy value of -162.431 and -137.500 kJ/mol, respectively.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taufik Muhammad Fakih
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Fitrianti Darusman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Riry Apriliani
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Syifa Prahayati
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia
| | | | - Aulia Fikri Hidayat
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Aden Dhana Rizkita
- Department of Pharmacy, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan (STIKES) Bogor Husada, Bogor, Indonesia
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tegar Achsendo Yuniarta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia
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20
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Almocera AES, González AH, Hernandez-Vargas EA. Confinement tonicity on epidemic spreading. J Math Biol 2024; 88:46. [PMID: 38519724 PMCID: PMC11067545 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-024-02064-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Emerging and re-emerging pathogens are latent threats in our society with the risk of killing millions of people worldwide, without forgetting the severe economic and educational backlogs. From COVID-19, we learned that self isolation and quarantine restrictions (confinement) were the main way of protection till availability of vaccines. However, abrupt lifting of social confinement would result in new waves of new infection cases and high death tolls. Here, inspired by how an extracellular solution can make water move into or out of a cell through osmosis, we define confinement tonicity. This can serve as a standalone measurement for the net direction and magnitude of flows between the confined and deconfined susceptible compartments. Numerical results offer insights on the effects of easing quarantine restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Erich S Almocera
- Department of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines
| | - Alejandro H González
- Institute of Technological Development for the Chemical Industry (INTEC), CONICET-Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Esteban A Hernandez-Vargas
- Department of Mathematics and Statistical Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, 83844-1103, USA.
- Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, 83844-1103, USA.
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Song M, Zhang L, Ji Q, Ji P, Xu J, Chen Y, Guo L. Nursing students' emotions, educational concerns, and the impact of study careers and professional futures during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:278. [PMID: 38481261 PMCID: PMC10938772 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05231-6] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is a challenge to education systems worldwide. The aim of the study was to explore the impact of COVID-19-pandemic-related emotions and COVID-19-related concern for education on the study careers and professional futures of nursing students. METHODS The study was completed between March and June 2023 using a multi-stage sampling design. A total of 1126 nursing students were recruited to complete the questionnaire. The self-administered questionnaire consisted of basic characteristics of the subjects, the COVID-19-pandemic-related emotions scale, the COVID-19-related concern for education scale, and the impact of the COVID-19 on study careers and professional futures scale (SCPFI-19 S). One-way ANOVA/t-test, correlation coefficient analysis, and hierarchical linear regression analysis were used to explore factors influencing changes in study careers and professional futures, and the relationship between COVID-19-pandemic-related emotions and COVID-19-related concern for education. RESULTS Univariate analysis of variance indicated that residence, willingness, and whether to engage in nursing after graduation were related to SCPFI-19 S (P < 0.05). COVID-19-pandemic-related emotions and COVID-19-related concern for education were significantly and positively associated with SCPFI-19 S (r = 0.566, P < 0.01; r = 0.199, P < 0.01). Stratified multiple regression analysis showed that COVID-19-pandemic-related emotions and COVID-19-related concern for education of nursing students were significant predictors of SCPFI-19 S. CONCLUSION Overall, both COVID-19-pandemic-related emotions and COVID-19-related concern for education were significantly correlated with SCPFI-19 S. In future interventions, schools should consider structures and strategies to support students' mental health and educational trajectories during current and future epidemics or similar crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaojing Song
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, School of Nursing, Wannan Medical College, 22 Wenchang West Road, Higher Education Park, Wuhu City, An Hui Province, PR China
| | - Qiqi Ji
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Pengjuan Ji
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Jiashuang Xu
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Yian Chen
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Leilei Guo
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, PR China.
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Chahin-Inostroza N, Bracho-Milic F, Velasco-Bahamonde E, Navarrete-Hidalgo C, Serón P. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on training and technology use among Chilean amateur athletes. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1302023. [PMID: 38529409 PMCID: PMC10961421 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1302023] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic was a health problem which affected the entire world. Sports were strongly affected, especially outdoors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on training and technology use among Chilean amateur athletes. Method An observational descriptive cross-sectional study, carried out during the 2021-2. Nonprobabilistic convenience sample of people over 18 years. Data were obtained via online survey and analyzed with Stata 16.0 statistical program for runners, triathletes, cyclists. Results The sample was 179 athletes, average age was 42.5 years ±10.2; males were 58.6%. 22.65% of the sample were triathletes, 58% runners, and 18.2% cyclists. Training habits were measured during Pre-Pandemic (PP), Pandemic With Quarantine (PWQ), and Pandemic Without Quarantine (PWOQ). In total sample, a decrease was observed in variables of average training frequency of 1.28 sessions per week (p = 0.001; d = 0.648); weekly average training time of 189.63 min (p = 0.005; d = 0.293); days per week with high and medium intensity training of 0.95 (p = 0.001; d = 0.833) and 0.37 (p = 0.001; d = 0.327) respectively; and days per week with cardio training of 1.01 (p = 0.001; d = 0.678), comparing the PP and PWQ periods. When comparing PWQ and PWOQ, an increase was observed in the same variables mentioned above of 1,57 sessions per week (p = 0.001; d = 0.513); 162.68 min per week (p = 0.020; d = -0.245); days per week with high of 0.82 (p = 0.001; d = -0.714) and medium intensity training of 0.46 (p = 0.001; d = -0.412); days per week with cardio training of 1.14 (p = 0.001; d = -0.730); and included strength training of 0.42 (p = 0.012; d = -0.312). For technology incorporation, over 78% (p = 0.023) claimed to used devices to measure training, with the watch being the preferred device in over 72% (p = 0.002) during the three timeframes. Highlighted the rise in use of training software during and after the lockdown period of more than 23% (p < 0.001). Discussion All variables related with training habits decreased comparing PP and PWQ and all variables rose between PWQ and PWOQ; however, comparing PP and PWOQ, there are small differences, which do not always favor the PWOQ, reflecting how athletes have not yet been able to recover their training rhythms. Finally, we should note that the use of technology increased, in all periods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fanny Bracho-Milic
- Medical and Health Sciences Department, Universidad Mayor, Temuco, Chile
| | | | | | - Pamela Serón
- Medical School, Centro de Excelencia CIGES, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Medical School, Rehabilitation Sciences Department, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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Sarfraz A, Sarfraz Z, Bano S, Sarfraz M, Jaan A, Minhas A, Razzack AA, Patel G, Manish KC, Makkar SS, Garimella R, Pandav K, Almonte J, Paul T, Almonte T, Jimenez L, Pantoga JC, El Mazboudi N, Yatzkan G, Michel G, Michel J. Global Perspective on COVID-19 Therapies, Cardiovascular Outcomes, and Implications for Long COVID: A State-of-the-Art Review. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2024; 14:58-66. [PMID: 38966504 PMCID: PMC11221457 DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1308] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many therapies, of which many are repurposed and used for other diseases in the last decade such in Influenza and Ebola. We intend to provide a robust foundation for cardiovascular outcomes of the therapies to better understand the rationale for the clinical trials that were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to gain more clarity on the steps moving forward should the repurposing provide clinical benefit in pandemic situations. With this state-of-the-art review, we aim to improve the understanding of the cardiovascular involvement of the therapies prior to, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic to provide meaningful findings to the cardiovascular specialists and clinical trials for therapies, moving on from the period of pandemic urgency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shehar Bano
- Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore,
Pakistan
| | | | - Ali Jaan
- Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY,
USA
| | - Amna Minhas
- Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore,
Pakistan
| | | | | | - KC Manish
- Larkin Health System, South Miami, Florida,
USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Trissa Paul
- Larkin Health System, South Miami, Florida,
USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jack Michel
- Larkin Health System, South Miami, Florida,
USA
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24
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Zloto O, Paiusco V, Murta F. How to assess blepharoptosis via telemedicine: method and its reliability. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:106. [PMID: 38386214 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-02926-z] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the method to assess belpahroptosis and its reliability of adult ptosis using video consultation. METHODS This is a retrospective, comparative, case series. The surgical waiting list for ptosis surgery between 8/2020 and 1/2021 was checked and only cases listed for surgery via video consultation assessment, without any previous face-to-face consultation, were included. The following data were collected for patients who underwent video consultation before surgery: Demographic data, level of experience of clinician, levator function, Cogan's twitch sign, fatigability test, eye motility, presence of lagophthalmos, clinical history to rule out Myasthenia Gravis, other myopathies or Horner syndrome, whether the surgery was performed or canceled, reason for cancellation, date of surgery, type of procedure and surgeon experience. RESULTS A total of 176 patients underwent ptosis surgery. From those, 45 patients (25.6%) had only video assessment prior to surgery, 36 patients (80%) eventually underwent ptosis surgery. Surgery was canceled in 20% of the cases: in 2 cases (4.44%) due to misdiagnosis of ptosis during video consultation, confirmed on the day of surgery during pre-surgical face-to-face assessment; the other 7 cases (15.55%) belpharoptosis was confirmed on face-to-face examination but the surgery was canceled due to other reasons. The diagnosis of ptosis assessment via video consultation was corrected in 43 cases (95%) (p_value = 0.156, chi_ square). The accuracy of ptosis diagnosis was 13 out of 15 (86.7%) by fellow assessments and 30 out of 30 (100%) by consultant assessments (p_value = 0.041, chi_ square). In most of the cases ptosis assessment in video consultation included: rough judgment of levator function, eye motility and checking signs of lagophthalmos. CONCLUSIONS Video consultation is an efficient and reliable way to assess patients with ptosis, with 95% of reliability. Although a thorough ptosis assessment is advised, there was no difference between the accuracy of diagnosis on those who did not have the full suggested assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofira Zloto
- Adnexal Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, EC1V 2PD, England, UK.
| | | | - Fabiola Murta
- Adnexal Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, EC1V 2PD, England, UK
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Al-Jamal H, Idriss S, Roufayel R, Abi Khattar Z, Fajloun Z, Sabatier JM. Treating COVID-19 with Medicinal Plants: Is It Even Conceivable? A Comprehensive Review. Viruses 2024; 16:320. [PMID: 38543686 PMCID: PMC10974729 DOI: 10.3390/v16030320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2020, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) challenged the world with a global outbreak that led to millions of deaths worldwide. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the symptomatic manifestation of this virus, which can range from flu-like symptoms to utter clinical complications and even death. Since there was no clear medicine that could tackle this infection or lower its complications with minimal adverse effects on the patients' health, the world health organization (WHO) developed awareness programs to lower the infection rate and limit the fast spread of this virus. Although vaccines have been developed as preventative tools, people still prefer going back to traditional herbal medicine, which provides remarkable health benefits that can either prevent the viral infection or limit the progression of severe symptoms through different mechanistic pathways with relatively insignificant side effects. This comprehensive review provides scientific evidence elucidating the effect of 10 different plants against SARS-CoV-2, paving the way for further studies to reconsider plant-based extracts, rich in bioactive compounds, into more advanced clinical assessments in order to identify their impact on patients suffering from COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Al-Jamal
- Faculty of Public Health 3, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1100, Lebanon;
| | - Sara Idriss
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Rabih Roufayel
- College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Egaila 54200, Kuwait;
| | - Ziad Abi Khattar
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Kalhat, Tripoli P.O. Box 100, Lebanon;
| | - Ziad Fajloun
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences 3, Campus Michel Slayman Ras Maska, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1352, Lebanon
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, 13385 Marseille, France
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26
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Warssamo BB. Evaluation of community knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19: the case of Hawassa city, Sidama, Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1286181. [PMID: 38414901 PMCID: PMC10897006 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1286181] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Scientific information on the knowledge and attitude of the community toward the COVID-19 pandemic is a vital step for effective control measures. This study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge and attitude of Hawassa city residents toward COVID-19 and the interaction among knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study with stratified random sampling was used from June 2020 to August 2020. Five hundred and eighty-seven residents were selected for the study, which aimed to evaluate their knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19 using a standardized structured questionnaire. Data were collected using face-to-face interviews that strictly follow the WHO and the Ministry of Health Ethiopia guidelines for COVID-19 prevention. Attitude and knowledge were categorized based on the mean score value. Descriptive statistics and two independent multiple logistic regressions were applied to identify the possible determinants of knowledge and attitude using SPSS version 20 set at 95% CIs with a value of p of <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results In total, 61.7% of the participants were knowledgeable about the virus and 65.9% had a positive attitude toward COVID-19. Educational level with the categories of second degree and above (AOR = 29.709, 95% CI = 1.239-712.55), first degree (AOR = 3.476, 95% CI = 3.278-22.02), certificate/diploma (AOR = 1.062-18.24, 95% CI = 1.062-18.24), and grade 12 completed (AOR = 1.903, 95% CI = 2.12-6.809); employment status of respondents who were self-employed (AOR = 9.545, 95% CI = 1.165-78.173) and employed respondents (AOR = 10.053, 95% CI = 1.783-56.673); reading interest with categories always (AOR = 34.45, 95% CI = 26.608-4462.226) and sometimes (AOR = 17.24, 95% CI = 17.213-1661.966); and habit of using social media with categories always (AOR = 38.708, 95% CI = 5.086-294.610) and sometimes (AOR = 3.432, 95% CI = 3.504-23.378) were the significant explanatory variables that were correlated with knowledge of the respondents. Conclusion Although the knowledge and attitude of respondents toward COVID-19 were positive, there is a need to use more effective strategies to improve their knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19, and increasing knowledge on preventive behaviors among the community was mandatory to attain better results. The educational level, use of social media, and reading habits of the respondents appear to play significant roles in determining their level of knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birhanu Betela Warssamo
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural and Computational Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
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27
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Dilawari R, Chaubey GK, Modanwal R, Dhiman A, Talukdar S, Kumar A, Raje CI, Raje M. Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Binds with Spike Protein and Inhibits the Entry of SARS-CoV-2 into Host Cells. J Innate Immun 2024; 16:133-142. [PMID: 38325356 PMCID: PMC10911789 DOI: 10.1159/000535634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Coronavirus disease 2019 caused by coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has emerged as an aggressive viral pandemic. Health care providers confront a challenging task for rapid development of effective strategies to combat this and its long-term after effects. Virus entry into host cells involves interaction between receptor-binding domain (RBD) of spike (S) protein S1 subunit with angiotensin converting enzyme present on host cells. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a moonlighting enzyme involved in cellular glycolytic energy metabolism and micronutrient homeostasis. It is deployed in various cellular compartments and the extra cellular milieu. Though it is known to moonlight as a component of mammalian innate immune defense machinery, till date its role in viral restriction remains unknown. METHOD Recombinant S protein, the RBD, and human GAPDH protein were used for solid phase binding assays and biolayer interferometry. Pseudovirus particles expressing four different strain variants of S protein all harboring ZsGreen gene as marker of infection were used for flow cytometry-based infectivity assays. RESULTS Pseudovirus entry into target cells in culture was significantly inhibited by addition of human GAPDH into the extracellular medium. Binding assays demonstrated that human GAPDH binds to S protein and RBD of SARS-CoV-2 with nanomolar affinity. CONCLUSIONS Our investigations suggest that this interaction of GAPDH interferes in the viral docking with hACE2 receptors, thereby affecting viral ingress into mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Dilawari
- Institute of Microbial Technology, CSIR, Chandigarh, India
| | | | | | - Asmita Dhiman
- Institute of Microbial Technology, CSIR, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Ajay Kumar
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, India
| | - Chaaya Iyengar Raje
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, India
| | - Manoj Raje
- Institute of Microbial Technology, CSIR, Chandigarh, India
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Zaman R, Ravichandran V, Tan CK. Role of dietary supplements in the continuous battle against COVID-19. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1071-1088. [PMID: 38168043 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8096] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
A sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic was a big blow to the world community on every level. Created by a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, which was previously unknown to the human immune system. The expert opinion almost immediately united on the fact that the most effective way of fighting the pandemic would be by building immunity artificially via a mass immunization program. However, it took about a year for the approval of the first vaccine against COVID-19. In the meantime, a big part of the general population started adapting nutritious diet plans and dietary supplements to boost natural immunity as a potential prophylactic strategy against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Whether they originate from mainstream medicine, such as synthetic supplements, or traditional herbal remedies in the form of single or poly-herbs, these supplements may comprise various components that exhibit immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial characteristics. There is a substantial body of predictions and expert opinions suggesting that enhancing one's diet with dietary supplements containing additional nutrients and bioactive compounds like vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, phytochemicals, and probiotics can enhance the immune system's ability to develop resistance against COVID-19, although none of them have any conclusive evidence nor officially recommended by World Health Organization (WHO). The current review critically acclaims the gap between public perception-based preference and real evidence-based study to weigh the actual benefit of dietary supplements in relation to COVID-19 prevention and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahela Zaman
- School of Healthy Aging, Aesthetics and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vignesh Ravichandran
- School of Healthy Aging, Aesthetics and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chung Keat Tan
- School of Healthy Aging, Aesthetics and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Norman J, Mohamed MS, Mohamed HK, Baig MK. Association of COVID 19 pneumonitis and acute mesenteric ischemia. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e8225. [PMID: 38371345 PMCID: PMC10869945 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message D. dimer could be useful as an indicator in diagnosis of mesenteric ischemia in COVID patients. A two staged damage control emergency laparotomy is of good benefits in such patients. Abstract Bowel ischemia in COVID 19 patients is extremely rare condition results from migrating thrombus formed by a hypercoagulable inflammatory state that is frequently associated COVID 19 infection. A two staged damage control emergency laparotomy is of good benefits in general especially in those with active COVID 19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Norman
- Department of General SurgeryUniversity Hospitals SussexSussexUK
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Beverley J, Babcock S, Carvalho G, Cowell LG, Duesing S, He Y, Hurley R, Merrell E, Scheuermann RH, Smith B. Coordinating virus research: The Virus Infectious Disease Ontology. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0285093. [PMID: 38236918 PMCID: PMC10796065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted immense work on the investigation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Rapid, accurate, and consistent interpretation of generated data is thereby of fundamental concern. Ontologies-structured, controlled, vocabularies-are designed to support consistency of interpretation, and thereby to prevent the development of data silos. This paper describes how ontologies are serving this purpose in the COVID-19 research domain, by following principles of the Open Biological and Biomedical Ontology (OBO) Foundry and by reusing existing ontologies such as the Infectious Disease Ontology (IDO) Core, which provides terminological content common to investigations of all infectious diseases. We report here on the development of an IDO extension, the Virus Infectious Disease Ontology (VIDO), a reference ontology covering viral infectious diseases. We motivate term and definition choices, showcase reuse of terms from existing OBO ontologies, illustrate how ontological decisions were motivated by relevant life science research, and connect VIDO to the Coronavirus Infectious Disease Ontology (CIDO). We next use terms from these ontologies to annotate selections from life science research on SARS-CoV-2, highlighting how ontologies employing a common upper-level vocabulary may be seamlessly interwoven. Finally, we outline future work, including bacteria and fungus infectious disease reference ontologies currently under development, then cite uses of VIDO and CIDO in host-pathogen data analytics, electronic health record annotation, and ontology conflict-resolution projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Beverley
- Department of Philosophy, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
- National Center for Ontological Research, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
| | - Shane Babcock
- National Center for Ontological Research, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Riverside, OH, United States of America
| | - Gustavo Carvalho
- Department of Cognitive Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States of America
| | - Lindsay G. Cowell
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States of America
| | - Sebastian Duesing
- Department of Philosophy, Loyola University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Yongqun He
- Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, He Group, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Regina Hurley
- National Center for Ontological Research, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
- Department of Philosophy, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States of America
| | - Eric Merrell
- Department of Philosophy, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
- National Center for Ontological Research, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
| | - Richard H. Scheuermann
- Department of Informatics, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States of America
- Division of Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Barry Smith
- Department of Philosophy, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
- National Center for Ontological Research, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
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Zeng Y, Pang K, Cao S, Lin G, Tang J. Causal relationship between particulate matter 2.5 and infectious diseases: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23412. [PMID: 38163134 PMCID: PMC10755308 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Previous observational studies suggested a correlation between particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and infectious diseases, but causality remained uncertain. This study utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate causal relationships between PM2.5 concentrations and various infectious diseases (COVID-19 infection, hospitalized COVID-19, very severe COVID-19, urinary tract infection, bacterial pneumonia, and intestinal infection). Methods Inverse variance weighted (IVW) was the primary method for evaluating causal associations. For significant causal estimates, multiple sensitivity tests were further performed: (i) three additional MR methods (MR-Egger, weighted median, and maximum likelihood method) for supplementing IVW; (ii) Cochrane's Q test for assessing heterogeneity; (iii) MR-Egger intercept test and MR-PRESSO global test for evaluating horizontal pleiotropy; (iv) leave-one-out sensitivity test for determining the stability. Results PM2.5 concentration significantly increased the risk of hospitalized COVID-19 (OR = 1.91, 95 % CI: 1.06-3.45, P = 0.032) and very severe COVID-19 (OR = 3.29, 95 % CI: 1.48-7.35, P = 3.62E-03). However, no causal effect was identified for PM2.5 concentration on other infectious diseases (P > 0.05). Furthermore, various sensitivity tests demonstrated the reliability of significant causal relationships. Conclusions Overall, lifetime elevated PM2.5 concentration increases the risk of hospitalized COVID-19 and very severe COVID-19. Therefore, controlling air pollution may help mitigate COVID-19 progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youjie Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Ke Pang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Si Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Guoxin Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Juan Tang
- Department of Nephrology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
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Moreno K, Ferguson C, Garcia V, Gomez M, Gurovich AN. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and a Physical Therapy Program on Students' Health Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXERCISE SCIENCE 2024; 17:199-211. [PMID: 38665687 PMCID: PMC11042892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affected many aspects of everyday life including school, fitness regimens, and social interactions. The purpose of this study is to understand how COVID-19 restrictions affect the cardiovascular and mental health of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students as they progressed through the program. Data collection occurred in 16 DPT students (8F:8M, 24±3 years) over a total of 3 visits from 2020 to 2022, during high, moderate, and low COVID-19 restrictions. Outcome measures included VO2max, Venous Occlusion Plethysmography (VOP), %fat mass measured via DEXA, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). A RM-ANOVA with pairwise comparisons was utilized. Significance was set prior at an α level of 0.05. There was a significant increase (p<0.05) from visit 1 to 2 in VO2max, VOP baseline, BMI, and METs. There was a significant decrease (p<0.05) from visit 2 to 3 in VO2max. Finally, a significant increase in visit 3 was seen from visit 2 in VOP peak. Overall, there was no significant difference observed for PSS and %fat mass (p>0.05). Between high and moderate restrictions, there was an increase in VO2max, VOP baseline, and METs. However, between moderate and low restrictions, only VOP Peak increased. This could be attributed to gyms being closed and limiting the type of physical activity a person could do to exercises like running or walking. When restrictions were lifted, traveling to and from classes, traveling to gyms, and socializing all increased, limiting the time for physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Moreno
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Therapy and Movement Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Caitlyn Ferguson
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Therapy and Movement Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Vanessa Garcia
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Therapy and Movement Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Manuel Gomez
- Clinical Applied Physiology Lab, Department of Physical Therapy and Movement Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Alvaro N Gurovich
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Therapy and Movement Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
- Clinical Applied Physiology Lab, Department of Physical Therapy and Movement Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
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Metin N, Yıldız TT, Turan Ç. Oral Mucosal Manifestations Associated with PCR Positivity in Patients with COVID-19. Dermatol Pract Concept 2024; 14:dpc.1401a45. [PMID: 38364422 PMCID: PMC10869027 DOI: 10.5826/dpc.1401a45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To date various oral manifestations in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported. OBJECTIVES In the present study, we investigated the relationship between Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) positivity and oral signs in patients with suspected COVID-19. METHODS A total of 383 patients who presented to the emergency department for the first time with any symptoms associated with COVID-19 were included in the study. Oral examinations were performed and the findings, PCR status, and thorax computerized tomography (CT) reports were recorded. RESULTS Oral mucosa was involved in 246 (64.2%) patients. 175 (78,4%) of patients with COVID-19 confirmed the diagnosis with PCR test or CT results had oral manifestation. Dry mouth, microvesicles on the tonsils or pharynx, and petechiae in the oropharynx were significantly higher in patients with positive PCR tests (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). The ratio of intact oral mucosa was statistically significantly higher in patients with negative PCR tests compared to those with positive PCR tests (P < 0.001). Microvesicles on the tonsils or pharynx were most associated with PCR positivity in patients without lung involvement (P < 0.001). Dry mouth, erythema of the tonsils and pharynx, petechiae in the oropharynx, and primary/secondary herpes infection are more related to PCR positivity in patients without lung involvement (P < 0.05). Lung involvement in patients with PCR positivity is related to only cheilitis (P = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that especially microvesicles, petechiae, erythema on the tonsils or pharynx, and some other oral lesions such as dry mouth, oral aphthae, and primary/secondary herpes infection are associated with PCR positivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurcan Metin
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, the Republic of Turkey, Health Sciences University Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Türkan Tuğba Yıldız
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, the Republic of Turkey, Health Sciences University Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Çağrı Turan
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, the Republic of Turkey, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
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Gasmi A, Noor S, Dadar M, Semenova Y, Menzel A, Gasmi Benahmed A, Bjørklund G. The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Pharmacopoeia in the Evaluation and Treatment of COVID-19. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:1060-1074. [PMID: 38523518 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128217263240220060252] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The epidemic prompted by COVID-19 continues to spread, causing a great risk to the general population's safety and health. There are still no drugs capable of curing it. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) are the two other diseases caused by coronaviruses. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) showed benefits in treating SARS and MERS by preventing the disease early, substantially mitigating symptoms, shortening the treatment period, and minimizing risks and adverse reactions caused by hormone therapy. Although several vaccines have been developed and are being used for the treatment of COVID-19, existing vaccines cannot provide complete protection against the virus due to the rapid evolution and mutation of the virus, as mutated viral epitopes evade the vaccine's target and decrease the efficacy of vaccines. Thus, there is a need to develop alternative options. TCM has demonstrated positive effects in the treatment of COVID-19. Previous research studies on TCM showed broad-spectrum antiviral activity, offering a range of possibilities for their potential use against COVID-19. This study shed some light on common TCM used for SARS and MERS outbreaks and their effective use for COVID-19 management. This study provides new insights into COVID-19 drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Gasmi
- Société Francophone de Nutrithérapie et de Nutrigénétique Appliquée, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Sadaf Noor
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Dadar
- CONEM Iran Microbiology Research Group, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yuliya Semenova
- School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | | | | | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (CONEM), Mo i Rana, Norway
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Khazir J, Ahmed S, Thakur RK, Hussain M, Gandhi SG, Babbar S, Mir SA, Shafi N, Tonfack LB, Rajpal VR, Maqbool T, Mir BA, Peer LA. Repurposing of Plant-based Antiviral Molecules for the Treatment of COVID-19. Curr Top Med Chem 2024; 24:614-633. [PMID: 38477206 DOI: 10.2174/0115680266276749240206101847] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19, stemming from SARS-CoV-2, poses a formidable threat to global healthcare, with a staggering 77 million confirmed cases and 690,067 deaths recorded till December 24, 2023. Given the absence of specific drugs for this viral infection, the exploration of novel antiviral compounds becomes imperative. High-throughput technologies are actively engaged in drug discovery, and there is a parallel effort to repurpose plant-based molecules with established antiviral properties. In this context, the review meticulously delves into the potential of plant-based folk remedies and existing molecules. These substances have showcased substantial viral inhibition in diverse in vivo, in silico, and in vitro studies, particularly against critical viral protein targets, including SARS-CoV-2. The findings position these plant-based molecules as promising antiviral drug candidates for the swift advancement of treatments for COVID-19. It is noteworthy that the inherent attributes of these plant-based molecules, such as their natural origin, potency, safety, and cost-effectiveness, contribute to their appeal as lead candidates. The review advocates for further exploration through comprehensive in vivo studies conducted on animal models, emphasizing the potential of plant-based compounds to help in the ongoing quest to develop effective antivirals against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jabeena Khazir
- Department of Chemistry, HKM Govt. Degree College Eidgah, Cluster University Srinagar, J&K, 190001, India
| | - Sajad Ahmed
- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road Jammu, 180001, J&K, India
| | - Rakesh Kr Thakur
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, 201313, India
| | - Manzoor Hussain
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, Punjab, India
- Department of Botany, North Campus, University of Kashmir, Delina, Baramulla, J&K, 193103, India
| | - Sumit G Gandhi
- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road Jammu, 180001, J&K, India
| | - Sadhana Babbar
- Department of Botany, Swami Shradhanand College, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110036, India
| | - Shabir Ahmad Mir
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nusrat Shafi
- Department of Chemistry, HKM Govt. Degree College Eidgah, Cluster University Srinagar, J&K, 190001, India
| | - Libert Brice Tonfack
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Environment, Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaounde I, PO Box 812, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Vijay Rani Rajpal
- Department of Botany, Hans Raj College, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Tariq Maqbool
- Laboratory of Nanotherapeutics and Regenerative Medicine, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006, India
| | - Bilal Ahmad Mir
- Department of Botany, North Campus, University of Kashmir, Delina, Baramulla, J&K, 193103, India
| | - Latif Ahmad Peer
- Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, J&K, 190006, India
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Njonnou SRS, Eloumba EAMS, Men-do E, Mboule RME, Sango AJF, Lekpa FK, Essomba MJN, Balti EV, Ouankou CN, Djotah J, Bangbang CFE, Sob-ze MS, Choukem SP. Knowledge, perceptions and practices of COVID19 among the came-roonian population. J Public Health Afr 2023; 14:2718. [PMID: 38523804 PMCID: PMC10959157 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2023.2718] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID19 is an emerging infectious disease that has spread all over the world and became a pandemic. Cameroon is the 7th most affected country in Africa, with most of the cases in metropoles. The main objective was to assess the knowledge, perceptions and practices of the Cameroonian populations about COVID19 infection. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 15th to July 15th, 2020; targeting all Cameroonians over 15 years old living in Cameroon. A standard Google Forms® questionnaire was submitted via social media (WhatsApp and Facebook particularly). The sampling was consecutive and not exhaustive. The data were processed on Excel 2016 and analyzed through EPI info 3.5. The questionnaire included knowledge, perceptions and practices about the disease's existence, its functional signs, prevention and control. Knowledge, perceptions and practices were considered good for a response score ≥75% and poor for a score ≤25%. Intermediate scores were considered average and insufficient. Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed to identify the factors associated with a significance level (P#x003C;0.05). Of the 996 (507 males) participants, the median age was 26±8 years. Health workers represented 20.8% of participants. A large proportion of the population (78.6%) had good knowledge, while more than half (56.5%) had good perceptions, but only (23.1%) had good practices. Having reached higher education (P=0.007), and being a health worker (P=0.0008) were associated with a good level of knowledge. High school education (P=0.040) and being a health worker (P=0.049) were associated with positive perceptions. Being employed (P=0.003) and having secondary education level (P=0.033) were associated with good practices. Knowledge and perceptions were good among the study population, but the practice level is still insufficient to effectively fight the COVID19 pandemic. Educational level, being employed or being healthcare workers were associated with good knowledge, perceptions and practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Raoul Simeni Njonnou
- Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | | | - Edwige Men-do
- Departement of Internal Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde
- Ebolowa Regional Hospital, Ebolowa
| | - Raissa Manuela Ewala Mboule
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang
| | - Anne Juliette Flore Sango
- Yaounde Central Hospital
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medicine and Biomedical Scienc-es, University of Buea, Buea
| | - Fernando Kemta Lekpa
- Department of Internal Medicine and specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang
- The University of Dschang Taskforce for The Elimination of COVID19 (UNITED#COVID19 ), Dschang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Marie-Josiane Ntsama Essomba
- Yaounde Central Hospital
- Departement of Internal Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde
| | - Eric Vounsia Balti
- Department of Internal Medicine and specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang
- The University of Dschang Taskforce for The Elimination of COVID19 (UNITED#COVID19 ), Dschang
| | - Christian Ngongang Ouankou
- Department of Internal Medicine and specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang
- The University of Dschang Taskforce for The Elimination of COVID19 (UNITED#COVID19 ), Dschang
| | | | | | - Martin Sanou Sob-ze
- The University of Dschang Taskforce for The Elimination of COVID19 (UNITED#COVID19 ), Dschang
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang
| | - Simeon Pierre Choukem
- Department of Internal Medicine and specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang
- The University of Dschang Taskforce for The Elimination of COVID19 (UNITED#COVID19 ), Dschang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Cameroon
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Lüdecke D, von dem Knesebeck O. Worsened self-rated health in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults in Europe. Eur J Public Health 2023; 33:1148-1154. [PMID: 37568252 PMCID: PMC10710346 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Governments across Europe deployed non-pharmaceutical interventions to mitigate the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which not only showed clear benefits but also had negative consequences on peoples' health. Health inequalities increased, disproportionally affecting people with higher age or lower education. This study analyzed associations between social factors and worsened self-rated health of elderly people in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, taking different stringencies of government mandates as well as infection rates into account. METHODS Data stem from the European SHARE survey. The main outcome was a binary indicator of worsened self-rated health. Analyses included data from two waves (2020 and 2021) during the pandemic (N = 48 356 participants, N = 96 712 observations). Predictors were age, sex, education and living together with a partner, and two macro indicators that reflected the stringency of government response mandates and COVID-19 infection rates. Data were analyzed using logistic mixed-effects regression models. RESULTS Older age [odds ratio (OR) 1.73, confidence interval (CI) 1.65-1.81] and female sex (OR 1.26, CI 1.20-1.32) were positively associated and higher education (OR 0.74, CI 0.70-0.79) was negatively associated with worsened self-rated health. Not living together with a partner showed higher odds of worsened self-rated health (OR 1.30, CI 1.24-1.36). Inequalities increased from 2020 to 2021. Associations between worsened self-rated health and government response mandates or infection rates were inconsistent. CONCLUSION Self-rated health worsened in the course of the pandemic and health disparities increased. Possible future pandemics require targeted interventions to minimize adverse health outcomes, in particular among old, potentially isolated, and deprived people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lüdecke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Olaf von dem Knesebeck
- Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Dubowski K, Braganza GT, Bozack A, Colicino E, DeFelice N, McGuinn L, Maru D, Lee AG. COVID-19 subphenotypes at hospital admission are associated with mortality: a cross-sectional study. Ann Med 2023; 55:12-23. [PMID: 36444856 PMCID: PMC10795648 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2148733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have an incomplete understanding of COVID-19 characteristics at hospital presentation and whether underlying subphenotypes are associated with clinical outcomes and therapeutic responses. METHODS For this cross-sectional study, we extracted electronic health data from adults hospitalized between 1 March and 30 August 2020 with a PCR-confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 at five New York City Hospitals. We obtained clinical and laboratory data from the first 24 h of the patient's hospitalization. Treatment with tocilizumab and convalescent plasma was assessed over hospitalization. The primary outcome was mortality; secondary outcomes included intubation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and length of stay (LOS). First, we employed latent class analysis (LCA) to identify COVID-19 subphenotypes on admission without consideration of outcomes and assigned each patient to a subphenotype. We then performed robust Poisson regression to examine associations between COVID-19 subphenotype assignment and outcome. We explored whether the COVID-19 subphenotypes had a differential response to tocilizumab and convalescent plasma therapies. RESULTS A total of 4620 patients were included. LCA identified six subphenotypes, which were distinct by level of inflammation, clinical and laboratory derangements and ranged from a hypoinflammatory subphenotype with the fewest derangements to a hyperinflammatory with multiorgan dysfunction subphenotypes. Multivariable regression analyses found differences in risk for mortality, intubation, ICU admission and LOS, as compared to the hypoinflammatory subphenotype. For example, in multivariable analyses the moderate inflammation with fever subphenotype had 3.29 times the risk of mortality (95% CI 2.05, 5.28), while the hyperinflammatory with multiorgan failure subphenotype had 17.87 times the risk of mortality (95% CI 11.56, 27.63), as compared to the hypoinflammatory subphenotype. Exploratory analyses suggested that subphenotypes may differential respond to convalescent plasma or tocilizumab therapy. CONCLUSION COVID-19 subphenotype at hospital admission may predict risk for mortality, ICU admission and intubation and differential response to treatment.KEY MESSAGEThis cross-sectional study of COVID patients admitted to the Mount Sinai Health System, identified six distinct COVID subphenotypes on admission. Subphenotypes correlated with ICU admission, intubation, mortality and differential response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Dubowski
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Giovanna T. Braganza
- School of Public Health, State University of New York, Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Anne Bozack
- School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Elena Colicino
- Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicholas DeFelice
- Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura McGuinn
- Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Duncan Maru
- Department of Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alison G. Lee
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Salazar-Ardiles C, Asserella-Rebollo L, Cornejo C, Arias D, Vasquez-Muñoz M, Toledo C, Andrade DC. Molecular diagnostic approaches for SARS-CoV-2 detection and pathophysiological consequences. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:10367-10382. [PMID: 37817022 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08844-0] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, a novel coronavirus within the Coronaviridae family, is the causative agent behind the respiratory ailment referred to as COVID-19. Operating on a global scale, COVID-19 has led to a substantial number of fatalities, exerting profound effects on both public health and the global economy. The most frequently reported symptoms encompass fever, cough, muscle or body aches, loss of taste or smell, headaches, and fatigue. Furthermore, a subset of individuals may manifest more severe symptoms, including those consistent with viral pneumonitis, which can be so profound as to result in fatalities. Consequently, this situation has spurred the rapid advancement of disease diagnostic technologies worldwide. Predominantly employed in diagnosing COVID-19, the real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR has been the foremost diagnostic method, effectively detecting SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA. As the pandemic has evolved, antigen and serological tests have emerged as valuable diagnostic tools. Antigen tests pinpoint specific viral proteins of SARS-CoV-2, offering swift results, while serological tests identify the presence of antibodies in blood samples. Additionally, there have been notable strides in sample collection methods, notably with the introduction of saliva-based tests, presenting a non-invasive substitute to nasopharyngeal swabs. Given the ongoing mutations in SARS-CoV-2, there has been a continuous need for genomic surveillance, encompassing full genome sequencing and the identification of new variants through Illumina technology and, more recently, nanopore metagenomic sequencing (SMTN). Consequently, while diagnostic testing methods for COVID-19 have experienced remarkable progress, no test is flawless, and there exist limitations with each technique, including sensitivity, specificity, sample collection, and the minimum viral load necessary for accurate detection. These aspects are comprehensively addressed within this current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Salazar-Ardiles
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Biomedical Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Antofagasta, Av. Universidad de Antofagasta #02800, Antofagasta, Chile
| | | | - Carlos Cornejo
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Biomedical Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Antofagasta, Av. Universidad de Antofagasta #02800, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Dayana Arias
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Biomedical Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Antofagasta, Av. Universidad de Antofagasta #02800, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Manuel Vasquez-Muñoz
- Dirección de Docencia de Especialidades Médicas, Dirección de Postgrado, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camilo Toledo
- Laboratory of Cardiorespiratory and Sleep Physiology, Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - David C Andrade
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Biomedical Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Antofagasta, Av. Universidad de Antofagasta #02800, Antofagasta, Chile.
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MacNeil A, Findlay B, Bimman R, Hocking T, Barclay T, Ho J. Exploring the Use of Virtual Funerals during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023; 88:425-448. [PMID: 34550814 PMCID: PMC10647914 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211045288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing limitations have had a profound impact on funeral practices and associated grieving processes. The purpose of the present scoping review is to summarize the existing literature on the emerging use of virtual funerals. Five medical databases, five social science databases, and five grey literature databases were searched, identifying 1,351 titles and abstracts, of which 62 met inclusion criteria. Four themes, each with various subthemes emerged: (a) Impact of virtual funerals on coping with death; (b) Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the funeral industry; (c) Benefits and disadvantages of virtual funerals; and (d) Future implications for health and social work practitioners. Virtual funerals are an evolving resource for individuals, families, and communities to mourn in response to the interruptions to traditional grieving practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andie MacNeil
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Blythe Findlay
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rennie Bimman
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Taylor Hocking
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tali Barclay
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Ho
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Weizman Y, Tan AM, Fuss FK. The Use of Wearable Devices to Measure Sedentary Behavior during COVID-19: Systematic Review and Future Recommendations. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:9449. [PMID: 38067820 PMCID: PMC10708690 DOI: 10.3390/s23239449] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic resulted in approximately 7 million deaths and impacted 767 million individuals globally, primarily through infections. Acknowledging the impactful influence of sedentary behaviors, particularly exacerbated by COVID-19 restrictions, a substantial body of research has emerged, utilizing wearable sensor technologies to assess these behaviors. This comprehensive review aims to establish a framework encompassing recent studies concerning wearable sensor applications to measure sedentary behavior parameters during the COVID-19 pandemic, spanning December 2019 to December 2022. After examining 582 articles, 7 were selected for inclusion. While most studies displayed effective reporting standards and adept use of wearable device data for their specific research aims, our inquiry revealed deficiencies in apparatus accuracy documentation and study methodology harmonization. Despite methodological variations, diverse metrics, and the absence of thorough device accuracy assessments, integrating wearables within the pandemic context offers a promising avenue for objective measurements and strategies against sedentary behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehuda Weizman
- Chair of Biomechanics, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, D-95447 Bayreuth, Germany;
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Hawthorn Campus, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne 3122, Australia;
| | - Adin Ming Tan
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Hawthorn Campus, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne 3122, Australia;
| | - Franz Konstantin Fuss
- Chair of Biomechanics, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, D-95447 Bayreuth, Germany;
- Division of Biomechatronics, Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA, D-95447 Bayreuth, Germany
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Jezierska K, Lietz-Kijak D, Gronwald H, Oleksy B, Gronwald BJ, Podraza W. Taste dysfunction after COVID-19: Analysis with functional near-infrared spectroscopy. OTOLARYNGOLOGIA POLSKA 2023; 78:14-19. [PMID: 38332707 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0053.7423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
<br><b>Introduction:</b> According to official data, COVID-19 emerged in China in December 2019 and has spread worldwide since then.</br> <br><b>Aim:</b> The aim of this study was to investigate differences in functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) recordings between convalescent COVID-19 patients and a healthy control group, which could help to clarify the pathomechanism of dysgeusia in COVID-19.</br> <br><b>Material and methods:</b> The study included 16 participants, comprised of 8 convalescent COVID-19 patients and 8 healthy controls. All participants were examined with fNIRS. The amplitude of changes in oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) concentration in the cerebral cortex was analyzed statistically (for the test and control groups after stimulation with a taste stimulus - citric acid solution).</br> <br><b>Results:</b> The differences in the amplitude of changes in oxyHb concentration in the cerebral cortex were not statistically significant between the groups. Discussion: Using fNIRS, a strong stimulation of the visual cortex was discovered in response to the taste stimulus, consisting of large, repetitive changes in oxyHb concentration occurring in parallel with stimulation of areas of the taste cortex. This phenomenon has not, to our knowledge, been described previously in the scientific literature. The exact location of the primary taste cortex is controversial, but to date the occipital cortex has not been considered to be involved.</br> <br><b>Conclusions: No difference was observed in the dynamics of changes in oxyHb in the examined areas of the cerebral cortex between convalescent COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. However, the determination of the role of the occipital cortex in the perception of taste requires further research.</br>.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Jezierska
- Pomeranian Medical University, Department of Medical Physics, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Danuta Lietz-Kijak
- Pomeranian Medical University, Department of Propaedeutics, Physical Diagnostics and Dental Physiotherapy, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Helena Gronwald
- Pomeranian Medical University, Department of Propaedeutics, Physical Diagnostics and Dental Physiotherapy, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Barbara Oleksy
- Paediatric Neurology Clinic, Institute of Mother and Child in Warsaw, Poland
| | - Barbara Janina Gronwald
- Doctoral Study at the Department of Propaedeutics, Physical Diagnostics and Dental Physiotherapy, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Podraza
- Pomeranian Medical University, Department of Medical Physics, Szczecin, Poland
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Karofi DH, Lawal N, Bello MB, Imam MU. Immunogenicity and Protective Efficacy of Nucleic Acid-Based Vaccines Against COVID-19: A Systematic Review. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00965-y. [PMID: 38006520 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00965-y] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
To overcome the COVID-19 pandemic, the development of safe and effective vaccines is crucial. With the enormous information available on vaccine development for COVID-19, there are still grey areas to be considered when designing a potential vaccine. The rapid regulatory approval of nucleic acid-based vaccines was unique to the COVID-19; these vaccines were rapidly produced cost-effectively and with lesser risk of infectivity. Additionally, they demonstrated relative stability at room temperature (DNA). However, a comparative understanding of the immunogenic impact and efficacy of these vaccines is lacking. Immunogenicity is essential for developing and maintaining effective and long-lasting post-vaccination immunity to pathogenic microorganisms. This systematic review aims to assess and summarize the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the nucleic acid-based vaccines against COVID-19. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) recommendations were followed in this review. CASP tool was used for quality assessment of randomized controlled trials. All included studies employed a randomized control method, and the results demonstrated promising immune responses and effectiveness that provided high-level protection against COVID-19 infection. This study offers vital insights for advancing vaccine technology. Furthermore, it guides formulation, informs personalized vaccination strategies, and enhances global health preparedness, particularly in regions with limited vaccine access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahiru Hafiz Karofi
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Nafi'u Lawal
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Muhammad Bashir Bello
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Mustapha Umar Imam
- Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria.
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
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Cappelletti P, Gallo G, Marino R, Palaniappan S, Corbo M, Savoia C, Feligioni M. From cardiovascular system to brain, the potential protective role of Mas Receptors in COVID-19 infection. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 959:176061. [PMID: 37775018 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176061] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been declared a new pandemic in March 2020. Although most patients are asymptomatic, those with underlying cardiovascular comorbidities may develop a more severe systemic infection which is often associated with fatal pneumonia. Nonetheless, neurological and cardiovascular manifestations could be present even without respiratory symptoms. To date, no COVID-19-specific drugs are able for preventing or treating the infection and generally, the symptoms are relieved with general anti-inflammatory drugs. Angiotensin-converting-enzyme 2 (ACE2) may function as the receptor for virus entry within the cells favoring the progression of infection in the organism. On the other hand, ACE2 is a relevant enzyme in renin angiotensin system (RAS) cascade fostering Ang1-7/Mas receptor activation which promotes protective effects in neurological and cardiovascular systems. It is known that RAS is composed by two functional countervailing axes the ACE/AngII/AT1 receptor and the ACE/AngII/AT2 receptor which counteracts the actions mediated by AngII/AT1 receptor by inducing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-growth functions. Subsequently an "alternative" ACE2/Ang1-7/Mas receptor axis has been described with functions similar to the latter protective arm. Here, we discuss the neurological and cardiovascular effects of COVID-19 highlighting the role of the stimulation of the RAS "alternative" protective arm in attenuating pulmonary, cerebral and cardiovascular damages. In conclusion, only two clinical trials are running for Mas receptor agonists but few other molecules are in preclinical phase and if successful these drugs might represent a successful strategy for the treatment of the acute phase of COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Cappelletti
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Gallo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Marino
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi Montalcini Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Corbo
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmine Savoia
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Feligioni
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy; European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi Montalcini Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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Ceylan AC, Çavdarlı B, Ceylan GG, Topçu V, Satılmış SBA, Bektaş ŞG, Kalem AK, Kayaaslan B, Eser F, Kalkan EA, İnan O, Hasanoğlu İ, Yüksel S, Ateş İ, İzdeş S, Güner R, Gündüz CNS. Impact of Inflammation-Related Genes on COVID-19: Prospective Study at Turkish Cohort. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2023; 261:179-185. [PMID: 37635061 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2023.j071] [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] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a high mortality rate and poses a significant threat to the population. The disease may progress with mild symptoms or may cause the need for intensive care, depending on many factors. In this study, it was aimed to determine if there is a tendency due to genetic factors in COVID-19 patients. Ninety-four of 188 patients with mild clinical and 94 with severe clinical symptoms were included in the study. The targeted panel including coagulopathy (F2, F5), viral invasion (ACE2), and inflammation (CXCL8, IFNAR2, IFNL4, IL10, IL2, IL6, IRF7, TLR3, TLR7, TNF) related genes was performed sequenced by the next generation sequencing (NGS). The variants found were classified and univariate analyses were performed to select candidate variables for logistic model. Risk factors and variants were compared. It was revealed that the presence of 2 or more risk factors caused the disease to progress severely (p < 0.001). Heterozygous IRF7:c.1357-23dup variant had a 2.5 times higher risk for mild disease compared to severe disease. Other variants were found to be more significant in mild disease. Since polymorphic variants were not evaluated in the literature, the findings of our study could not be compared with the literature. However, as variants that may be effective in the severity of infections may differ according to ethnicity. This study has the feature of being a guide for subsequent studies to be carried out especially in Turkish population. Clinical course of the COVID-19 is likely to depend on a variety of risk factors, including age, sex, clinical status, immunology and genetic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Cevdet Ceylan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Medical Genetics, Ankara City Hospital
| | | | - Gülay Güleç Ceylan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Medical Genetics, Ankara City Hospital
| | - Vehap Topçu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Ankara City Hospital
| | | | | | - Ayşe K Kalem
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Ankara City Hospital
| | - Bircan Kayaaslan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Ankara City Hospital
| | - Fatma Eser
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Ankara City Hospital
| | | | - Osman İnan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ankara City Hospital
| | - İmran Hasanoğlu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Ankara City Hospital
| | - Selcen Yüksel
- Department of Biostatistics, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
| | - İhsan Ateş
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ankara City Hospital, Health Science University
| | - Seval İzdeş
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation-Critical Care, Ankara City Hospital
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation-Critical Care, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
| | - Rahmet Güner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Ankara City Hospital
| | - C Nur Semerci Gündüz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University
- Department of Medical Genetics, Ankara City Hospital
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Voidarou C, Rozos G, Stavropoulou E, Giorgi E, Stefanis C, Vakadaris G, Vaou N, Tsigalou C, Kourkoutas Y, Bezirtzoglou E. COVID-19 on the spectrum: a scoping review of hygienic standards. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1202216. [PMID: 38026326 PMCID: PMC10646607 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1202216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, rapidly escalated into a worldwide public health crisis. Despite numerous clinical treatment endeavors, initial defenses against the virus primarily relied on hygiene practices like mask-wearing, meticulous hand hygiene (using soap or antiseptic solutions), and maintaining social distancing. Even with the subsequent advent of vaccines and the commencement of mass vaccination campaigns, these hygiene measures persistently remain in effect, aiming to curb virus transmission until the achievement of herd immunity. In this scoping review, we delve into the effectiveness of these measures and the diverse transmission pathways, focusing on the intricate interplay within the food network. Furthermore, we explore the virus's pathophysiology, considering its survival on droplets of varying sizes, each endowed with distinct aerodynamic attributes that influence disease dispersion dynamics. While respiratory transmission remains the predominant route, the potential for oral-fecal transmission should not be disregarded, given the protracted presence of viral RNA in patients' feces after the infection period. Addressing concerns about food as a potential viral vector, uncertainties shroud the virus's survivability and potential to contaminate consumers indirectly. Hence, a meticulous and comprehensive hygienic strategy remains paramount in our collective efforts to combat this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georgios Rozos
- Veterinary Directorate, South Aegean Region, Ermoupolis, Greece
| | - Elisavet Stavropoulou
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elpida Giorgi
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christos Stefanis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgios Vakadaris
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Natalia Vaou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Yiannis Kourkoutas
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bezirtzoglou
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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da Fonseca AM, Cabongo SQ, Caluaco BJ, Colares RP, Fernandes CFC, Dos Santos HS, de Lima-Neto P, Marinho ES. The search for new efficient inhibitors of SARS-COV-2 through the De novo drug design developed by artificial intelligence. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:9890-9906. [PMID: 36420665 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2148128] [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: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The pandemic caused by Sars-CoV-2 is a viral infection that has generated one of the most significant health problems worldwide. Previous studies report the main protease (Mpro) as a potential target for this virus, as it is considered a crucial enzyme in mediating replication and viral transcription. This work presented the construction of new bioactive compounds for possible inhibition. The De novo molecular design of drugs method in the incremental construction of a ligant model within a receptor model was used, producing new structures with the help of artificial intelligence. The research algorithm and the scoring function responsible for predicting orientation and affinity in the molecular target at the time of coupling showed, as a result of the simulation, the compound with the highest bioaffinity value, Hit 998, with the energy of -17.62 kcal/mol, and synthetic viability close to 50%. While hit 1103 presented better synthetic viability (80%), its affinity energy of -10.28 kcal/mol. Both were compared with the reference linker N3, with a binding affinity of -7.5 kcal/mol. ADMET tests demonstrated that simulated compounds have a low risk of metabolic activation and do not exert effective distribution in the CNS, suggesting a pharmacokinetic mechanism based on local action, even with high topological polarity, which resulted in low oral bioavailability. In conclusion, MMGBSA, H-bonds, RMSD, SASA, and RMSF values were also obtained through molecular dynamics to verify the stability of the receptor-ligant complex within the active protein site to seek new therapeutic propositions in the fight against the pandemic.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aluísio Marques da Fonseca
- Mestrado Acadêmico em Sociobiodiversidades e Tecnologias Sustentáveis - MASTS, Instituto de Engenharias e Desenvolvimento Sustentável, Universidade da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira, Acarape, CE, Brazil
| | - Sadrack Queque Cabongo
- Instituto de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Universidade da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira, Acarape, CE, Brazil
| | - Bernardino Joaquim Caluaco
- Instituto de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Universidade da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira, Acarape, CE, Brazil
| | - Regilany Paulo Colares
- Instituto de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Universidade da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira, Acarape, CE, Brazil
| | | | | | - Pedro de Lima-Neto
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, Science Center, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Emmanuel Silva Marinho
- Grupo de química Teorica e Eletroquimica-GQTE, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, CE, Brazil
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Park C, Zhang N, Madan N, Tseng HY, Assaf H, Thai J, Ahmed S, Pagidipati P. How college students are coping with COVID-19: a qualitative study. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2347-2355. [PMID: 34449287 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1967365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to measure college students' coping strategies and change of lifestyle during the COVID-19 pandemic. PARTICIPANTS Students from the State University in California were recruited during July 2020. METHODS A total of 11 focus group meetings were conducted. RESULTS Students' coping strategies were analyzed aligning with the Transactional model of stress and coping - primary appraisal, secondary appraisal and coping efforts, and meaning-based coping. Their physical activity patterns were dramatically changed. They used various ways of managing stress and tried to overcome the unexpected situation caused by COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS This study mainly analyzed the three constructs of the transactional model: primary appraisal, secondary appraisal and coping efforts, and meaning-based coping. It is expected that the future study will focus on the last construct, coping outcomes/adaptation after the COVID-19 pandemic to measure the association between coping strategies and their outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chulwoo Park
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Ni Zhang
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Nikita Madan
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Hsin Yi Tseng
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Huda Assaf
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Jasmine Thai
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Ahmed
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
| | - Pranuthi Pagidipati
- Department of Public Health and Recreation, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
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Prasad R, Ajith H, Kumar Chandrakumaran N, Dnyaneshwar Khangar P, Mohan A, Nelson-Sathi S. In silico study identifies peptide inhibitors that negate the effect of non-synonymous mutations in major drug targets of SARS-CoV-2 variants. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:9551-9561. [PMID: 36377464 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2143426] [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: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Since its advent in December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has diverged into multiple variants with differing levels of virulence owing to the accumulation of mutations in its genome. The structural changes induced by non-synonymous mutations in major drug targets of the virus are known to alter the binding of potential antagonistic inhibitors. Here, we analyzed the effects of non-synonymous mutations in major targets of SARS-CoV-2 in response to potential peptide inhibitors. We screened 12 peptides reported to have anti-viral properties against RBD and 5 peptides against Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 variants using molecular docking and simulation approaches. The mutational landscape of RBD among SARS-CoV-2 variants had 21 non-synonymous mutations across 18 distinct sites. Among these, 14 mutations were present in the RBM region directly interacting with the hACE2 receptor. However, Only 3 non-synonymous mutations were observed in Mpro. We found that LCB1 - a de novo-synthesized peptide has the highest binding affinity to RBD despite non-synonymous mutations in variants and engages key residues of RBD-hACE2 interaction such as K417, E484, N487, and N501. Similarly, an antimicrobial peptide; 2JOS, was identified against Mpro with high binding affinity as it interacts with key residues in dimerization sites such as E166 and F140 crucial for viral replication. MD simulations affirm the stability of RBD-LCB1 and Mpro-2JOS complexes with an average RMSD of 1.902 and 2.476 respectively. We ascertain that LCB1 and 2JOS peptides are promising inhibitors to combat emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 and thus warrant further investigations using in-vitro and in-vivo analysis.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshny Prasad
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Harikrishnan Ajith
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | | | | | - Anand Mohan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Shijulal Nelson-Sathi
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
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50
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Giavina-Bianchi P, Cua E, Risso K, Mondain V, Vissian A, Joie C, Pouletty P, Gineste P, Ehrlich HJ, Kalil J. ABX464 (obefazimod) for patients with COVID-19 at risk for severe disease: miR-AGE, a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. GLOBAL 2023; 2:100140. [PMID: 37781656 PMCID: PMC10509999 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacig.2023.100140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Background ABX464 (obefazimod) is a small molecule that upregulates a single microRNA (miR-124) in immune cells and reduces the production of various inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Objective We assessed the efficacy and safety of the standard of care (SoC) plus oral obefazimod (SoC plus ABX464), 50 mg once daily, versus the SoC plus placebo for prevention of severe acute respiratory syndrome in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who are at risk for severe disease. Methods Eligible patients for this phase 2/3 double-blind, placebo-controlled miR-AGE study were randomized (2:1) into 2 groups: SoC-ABX464 (n = 339) and SoC-placebo (n = 170). The primary end point was the percentage of patients who did not require use of high-flow oxygen or invasive or noninvasive mechanical ventilation within 28 days. The safety analyses included patients who had been randomly assigned and had received at least 1 dose of the study treatment. Results At the time of the interim analysis, obefazimod showed no benefit over placebo when added to the SoC; the study enrollment was stopped for futility. The evaluation of the safety of obefazimod in 505 patients showed significantly more treatment-emergent adverse events in the SoC-ABX464 group than in the SoC-placebo group (P = .007). Frequently reported AEs in the SoC-ABX464 group included headache (14.6%), abdominal pain (9.6%), diarrhea (9.0%), back pain (6.9%), and nausea (6.0%). No treatment-related changes in laboratory parameters were reported. Conclusion For patients who have severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and are at risk for severe COVID-19, obefazimod, 50 mg, provided no benefit over placebo when added to the SoC, although it did have a good safety profile (comparable to that reported in many therapeutic areas).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Giavina-Bianchi
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, Clinical Medicine Department, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo (FMUSP), Brazil
| | - Eric Cua
- CHU de Nice - Hôpital Archet 1, Nice, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jorge Kalil
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, Clinical Medicine Department, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo (FMUSP), Brazil
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