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Alkurdi K, Mansouri R, Ismail A, Seoudi N. Critical Evaluation of Global Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines for Dentistry Published during the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int J Dent 2024; 2024:6611105. [PMID: 38962726 PMCID: PMC11221955 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6611105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) encouraged immediate actions by governments and healthcare associations across the world to flatten the curve and prevent health systems from being overburdened. As dentistry comprises aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs), which could increase the risk of infection, various guidelines were issued for dental services which focused on infection prevention and control (IPC) measures for COVID-19. This systematic review focuses on dental IPC guidelines, with the aim of comparing these guidelines against a gold standard. Method The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist was employed. Predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were constructed. Information sources comprised Google Scholar, PubMed, and a manual search from December 2019 to December 2021. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) instrument was used. Consensus scoring was applied for all guidelines. Results A total 61 guidelines were included in the review. The UK national guideline was used as a gold standard as it ranked the highest AGREE score (75 out of 84) and thus was established for comparison with each of the included guidelines. Overall, 40% of the included guidelines had a high consensus score in relation to the UK national guideline. Conclusion This systematic review highlighted the variability in content and quality of advice given by different organizations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in their efforts to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission in dentistry. Establishing a single worldwide fast-acting dental organization would ensure that high-quality standardized guidance is available, to enhance health equality and worldwide dental clinical standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khlood Alkurdi
- Institute of DentistryQueen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
- Ministry of Education, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rowaina Mansouri
- Institute of DentistryQueen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
- Faculty of DentistryKing Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aseel Ismail
- Institute of DentistryQueen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
- Faculty of DentistryKing Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noha Seoudi
- Institute of DentistryQueen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
- College of Medicine and DentistryUlster University, London, UK
- Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Humer E, Keil T, Stupp C, Schlee W, Wildner M, Heuschmann P, Winter M, Probst T, Pryss R. Associations of Country-Specific and Sociodemographic Factors With Self-Reported COVID-19-Related Symptoms: Multivariable Analysis of Data From the CoronaCheck Mobile Health Platform. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e40958. [PMID: 36515987 PMCID: PMC9901499 DOI: 10.2196/40958] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 symptom-monitoring apps provide direct feedback to users about the suspected risk of infection with SARS-CoV-2 and advice on how to proceed to prevent the spread of the virus. We have developed the CoronaCheck mobile health (mHealth) platform, the first free app that provides easy access to valid information about the risk of infection with SARS-CoV-2 in English and German. Previous studies have suggested that the clinical characteristics of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 vary by age, gender, and viral variant; however, potential differences between countries have not been adequately studied. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of the users of the CoronaCheck mHealth platform and to determine country-specific and sociodemographic associations of COVID-19-related symptoms and previous contacts with individuals infected with COVID-19. METHODS Between April 8, 2020, and February 3, 2022, data on sociodemographic characteristics, symptoms, and reports of previous close contacts with individuals infected with COVID-19 were collected from CoronaCheck users in different countries. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine whether self-reports of COVID-19-related symptoms and recent contact with a person infected with COVID-19 differed between countries (Germany, India, South Africa), gender identities, age groups, education, and calendar year. RESULTS Most app users (N=23,179) were from Germany (n=8116, 35.0%), India (n=6622, 28.6%), and South Africa (n=3705, 16.0%). Most data were collected in 2020 (n=19,723, 85.1%). In addition, 64% (n=14,842) of the users were male, 52.1% (n=12,077) were ≥30 years old, and 38.6% (n=8953) had an education level of more than 11 years of schooling. Headache, muscle pain, fever, loss of smell, loss of taste, and previous contacts with individuals infected with COVID-19 were reported more frequently by users in India (adjusted odds ratios [aORs] 1.3-8.3, 95% CI 1.2-9.2) and South Africa (aORs 1.1-2.6, 95% CI 1.0-3.0) than those in Germany. Cough, general weakness, sore throat, and shortness of breath were more frequently reported in India (aORs 1.3-2.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.9) compared to Germany. Gender-diverse users reported symptoms and contacts with confirmed COVID-19 cases more often compared to male users. CONCLUSIONS Patterns of self-reported COVID-19-related symptoms and awareness of a previous contact with individuals infected with COVID-19 seemed to differ between India, South Africa, and Germany, as well as by gender identity in these countries. Viral symptom-collecting apps, such as the CoronaCheck mHealth platform, may be promising tools for pandemics to support appropriate assessments. Future mHealth research on country-specific differences during a pandemic should aim to recruit representative samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Thomas Keil
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- State Institute of Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carolin Stupp
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- State Institute of Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Winfried Schlee
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Manfred Wildner
- State Institute of Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Erlangen, Germany
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Heuschmann
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Clinical Trial Center Würzburg, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Winter
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Probst
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Rüdiger Pryss
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Camoni N, Cirio S, Salerno C, Balian A, Bruni G, D’Avola V, Cagetti MG. COVID-19 Pandemic and Remote Consultations in Children: A Bibliometric Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:9787. [PMID: 36011421 PMCID: PMC9407809 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169787] [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: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine is becoming a standard method of consultation, and the COVID-19 pandemic has increased its need. Telemedicine is suitable for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the pediatric population, as these are chronic conditions that affect many children worldwide. The aim of this study was to analyze the bibliometric parameters of publications on the use of telemedicine for the most common NCDs in children before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the electronic search, 585 records were selected. "Metabolic diseases" was the most frequent topic before and after the pandemic, accounting for 34.76% in 2017-2019 and 33.97% in 2020-2022. The average IF of the journals from which records were retrieved was 5.46 ± 4.62 before and 4.58 ± 2.82 after the pandemic, with no significant variation. The number of citations per reference averaged 14.71 ± 17.16 in 2017-2019 (95% CI: 12.07; 17.36) and 5.54 ± 13.71 in 2020-2022 (95% CI: 4.23; 6.86). Asthma, metabolic diseases, and neurodevelopmental disorders were the most explored topics. A relevant finding concerns the increasing number of observational studies after the pandemic, with a reduction of the interventional studies. The latter type of study should be recommended as it can increase the evaluation of new strategies for the management of NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Camoni
- Department of Restorative, Preventive and Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Cirio
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Salerno
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Araxi Balian
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Dental and Stomatology Unit, Cittadella Hospital, AULSS 6 Euganea, 35013 Cittadella, Italy
| | - Giulia Bruni
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria D’Avola
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Cagetti
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Bian DJH, Sabri S, Abdulkarim BS. Interactions between COVID-19 and Lung Cancer: Lessons Learned during the Pandemic. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153598. [PMID: 35892857 PMCID: PMC9367272 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary COVID-19 is a respiratory infectious disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Lung cancer is the leading cause of all cancer-related deaths worldwide. As both SARS-CoV-2 and lung cancer affect the lungs, the aim of this narrative review is to provide a consolidation of lessons learned throughout the pandemic regarding lung cancer and COVID-19. Risk factors found in lung cancer patients, such as advanced cancers, smoking, male, etc., have been associated with severe COVID-19. The cancer treatments hormonal therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy have shown no association with severe COVID-19 disease, but chemotherapy and radiation therapy have shown conflicting results. Logistical changes and modifications in treatment plans were instituted during the pandemic to minimize SARS-CoV-2 exposure while maintaining life-saving cancer care. Finally, medications have been developed to treat early COVID-19, which can be highly beneficial in vulnerable cancer patients, with paxlovid being the most efficacious drug currently available. Abstract Cancer patients, specifically lung cancer patients, show heightened vulnerability to severe COVID-19 outcomes. The immunological and inflammatory pathophysiological similarities between lung cancer and COVID-19-related ARDS might explain the predisposition of cancer patients to severe COVID-19, while multiple risk factors in lung cancer patients have been associated with worse COVID-19 outcomes, including smoking status, older age, etc. Recent cancer treatments have also been urgently evaluated during the pandemic as potential risk factors for severe COVID-19, with conflicting findings regarding systemic chemotherapy and radiation therapy, while other therapies were not associated with altered outcomes. Given this vulnerability of lung cancer patients for severe COVID-19, the delivery of cancer care was significantly modified during the pandemic to both proceed with cancer care and minimize SARS-CoV-2 infection risk. However, COVID-19-related delays and patients’ aversion to clinical settings have led to increased diagnosis of more advanced tumors, with an expected increase in cancer mortality. Waning immunity and vaccine breakthroughs related to novel variants of concern threaten to further impede the delivery of cancer services. Cancer patients have a high risk of severe COVID-19, despite being fully vaccinated. Numerous treatments for early COVID-19 have been developed to prevent disease progression and are crucial for infected cancer patients to minimize severe COVID-19 outcomes and resume cancer care. In this literature review, we will explore the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic to specifically mitigate COVID-19 treatment decisions and the clinical management of lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. H. Bian
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada;
| | - Siham Sabri
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute, McGill University Health Center Glen Site, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
| | - Bassam S. Abdulkarim
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute, and Department of Oncology, Cedars Cancer Center, McGill University Health Center Glen Site, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Wagatsuma Y, Daimaru K, Deng S, Chen JY. Hearing loss and the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:228. [PMID: 35761410 PMCID: PMC9235250 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-022-06120-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Hearing loss is an important public health problem. Its causes vary, including infections, noise, and aging. The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic occurred in April 2020 in Japan. During the pandemic, people were urged to stay at home and drastically changed their lifestyles. This study aimed to examine hearing loss before and during the pandemic. The prevalence during the pandemic after April 2020 was compared for the period in 2019. Study subjects were those who received health checkups in both periods. Hearing loss was defined as a hearing threshold of > 30 dB at 1 kHz and > 40 dB at 4 kHz in either ear using pure-tone audiometry. Results A total of 2367 persons presented in both 2019 and 2020. The overall rates of hearing loss were 9.5% and 13.2% before and after the pandemic, respectively. After controlling for age, sex, current smoking, regular exercise and alcohol consumption, the rate of hearing loss showed a significant increase in 2020 (p = < 0.0001). With age stratification, an increase was observed in the participants aged < 40 years (1.3% vs. 3.1%, p < 0.001) and 40–59 years (7.2% vs. 12.6%, p < 0.001). Further studies are needed to confirm the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hearing loss. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13104-022-06120-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Wagatsuma
- Department of Clinical Trials and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
| | - Kaori Daimaru
- Department of Clinical Trials and Clinical Epidemiology, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Shiqi Deng
- Department of Clinical Trials and Clinical Epidemiology, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Jou-Yin Chen
- Department of Clinical Trials and Clinical Epidemiology, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
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Examining the Impact of Stressors during COVID-19 on Emergency Department Healthcare Workers: An International Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063730. [PMID: 35329412 PMCID: PMC8953950 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Emergency department healthcare workers are known to face a unique combination of pressures from their careers and work environments regularly. Caring for dying patients and making difficult lifesaving decisions not only continued but also became more prevalent for emergency department healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. A growing body of literature revealed that the mental and emotional toll of COVID-19 has been tremendous. However, the burden of COVID-19 on the overall physical health and work–life balance on this group needs to be understood. This study aimed to describe the impact of stress on wellbeing and health across the globe among emergency department healthcare workers. A cross-sectional survey comprising work–family and family–work conflict scale, work–life balance, physical symptoms inventory, Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, satisfaction with job and life, and life change index scale was distributed to a convenience sample through listservs and social media. In total, 287 participants responded, 109 completing all questions. Fatigue was the most common symptom reported to occur daily (28.4%, n = 31), followed by muscle pain (13.8%, n = 15) and backache (11.9%, n = 13). Nurse practitioners reported the highest number of physical symptoms and the highest average scores and counts of stressful life events, while registered nurses indicated the highest work–family conflict levels. Linear regressions showed that stressful life events are significantly associated with both physical symptoms and work–family conflict. Results underscore the need to better support emergency department workers to mitigate the risks associated with occupational stress. Protective organizational policies and increased support strategies may be employed to improve wellbeing and cultivate a more sustainable workforce.
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Spinato G, Fabbris C, Costantini G, Conte F, Scotton PG, Cinetto F, De Siati R, Matarazzo A, Citterio M, Contro G, De Filippis C, Agostini C, Emanuelli E, Boscolo-Rizzo P, Frezza D. The Effect of Isotonic Saline Nasal Lavages in Improving Symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case-Control Study. Front Neurol 2021; 12:794471. [PMID: 34938268 PMCID: PMC8687114 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.794471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mainly colonizes nasopharynx. In upper airways acute infections, e.g., the common cold, saline nasal irrigations have a significant efficacy in reducing symptoms. The present study aimed to test the efficacy of nasal lavages in upper airways symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: A series of consecutive adult subjects who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from December 2020 to February 2021 performed daily nasal lavages with saline solution (Lavonase®—Purling, Lugo di Romagna, Italy) for 12 days, starting on the day after the SARS-CoV-2 positive swab. A control group included a historical series of patients who were infected in February-March 2020 and who did not perform lavages. An ad hoc questionnaire regarding symptoms was administered to each subjects at base-line and 10 days after diagnosis (i.e., on the same day of the control swab) in both cases and controls. Results: A total of 140 subjects were enrolled. 68 participants in the treatment group and 72 in the control group were included. 90% of respondents declared the lavages were simple to use and 70% declared they were satisfied. Symptoms of blocked nose, runny nose, or sneezing decreased by an average of 24.7% after the treatment. Blocked nose and sneezing increased in the same period of time in the control group. Ears and eyes symptoms, anosmia/ageusia symptoms, and infection duration (10.53 days in the treatment group and 10.48 days in the control group) didn't vary significantly among the two groups. Conclusion: Nasal lavages resulted to significantly decrease nasal symptoms in newly diagnosed SARS-CoV-2 patients. These devices proved to be well-tolerated and easy to be used. Further studies on a larger number of subjects are needed in order to possibly confirm these preliminary results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Spinato
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Costantini
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Conte
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Marco Citterio
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giacomo Contro
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Agostini
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Enzo Emanuelli
- Department of Otolaryngology, Ospedale di Treviso, Treviso, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Frezza
- Department of Otolaryngology, Ospedale di Treviso, Treviso, Italy
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Persad E, Engela-Volker JS, Noertjojo K, Pizarro AB, Mbeye N, Jørgensen KJ, Martin C, Sampson O, Bruschettini M. Elimination, substitution, engineering, and administrative interventions to reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers. Hippokratia 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Persad
- Cochrane Austria, Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation; Danube University Krems; Krems Austria
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences; Krems Austria
| | | | | | | | - Nyanyiwe Mbeye
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine; University of Malawi; Blantyre Malawi
| | | | | | | | - Matteo Bruschettini
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Paediatrics; Lund University, Skåne University Hospital; Lund Sweden
- Cochrane Sweden; Lund University, Skåne University Hospital; Lund Sweden
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Discrepancies of SARS-CoV-2 testing results among patients with total laryngectomy. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2021; 279:2193-2196. [PMID: 34853865 PMCID: PMC8636284 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-021-07203-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prevention of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is obtained with nasopharyngeal swabs. By the way, there is no consensus regarding sampling in totally laryngectomized subjects (who thus breathe directly by the tracheostomy and, theoretically, may be infected in the trachea). The aim of this study is to evaluate possible differences between swab results in the trachea and in the nasopharynx of this category of patients. METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed in April 2021 among patients who previously had been operated on for total laryngectomy and who underwent swabs for SARS-CoV-2 research in 3 health-care centers in Northern-Eastern Italy. Data regarding the site of swabbing (trachea or nasopharynx) were analyzed. A comprehensive review of the literature regarding the same topic was then performed. RESULTS A total of 25 totally laryngectomized subjects underwent swabs. Among them, 5 tested positive in the trachea (1) and in the nasopharynx (4). According to the literature review, 4 more subjects tested positive in the trachea (1) and in the nasopharynx (3). Data were overall divergent and no statistically significant correlations emerged between results of the tests performed in the two sites. CONCLUSION Due to these discrepancies, both tracheal and nasopharyngeal swabs are recommended in these kinds of patients, to obtain a reliable test and to avoid false negatives.
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10
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Assessing SARS-CoV-2 Vertical Transmission and Neonatal Complications. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10225253. [PMID: 34830532 PMCID: PMC8617726 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10225253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
We designed and implemented a prospective study to analyze the maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with COVID-19 and determine the likelihood of viral transmission to the fetus and newborn by collecting samples from amniotic fluid, placenta, umbilical cord blood, and breast milk. The study followed a prospective observational design, starting in July 2020 and lasting for one year. A total of 889 pregnant women were routinely tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection in an outpatient setting at our clinic, using nasal swabs for PCR testing. A total of 76 women were diagnosed with COVID-19. The positive patients who accepted study enrollment were systematically analyzed by collecting weekly nasal, urine, fecal, and serum samples, including amniotic fluid, placenta, umbilical cord, and breast milk at hospital admission and postpartum. Mothers with COVID-19 were at a significantly higher risk of developing gestational hypertension and giving birth prematurely by c-section than the general pregnant population. Moreover, their mortality rates were substantially higher. Their newborns did not have negative outcomes, except for prematurity, and an insignificant number of newborns were infected with SARS-CoV-2 (5.4%). No amniotic fluid samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2, and only 1.01% of PCR tests from breast milk were confirmed positive. Based on these results, we support the idea that SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnant women do not expose their infants to an additional risk of infection via breastfeeding, close contact, or in-utero. Consequently, we do not support maternal–newborn separation at delivery since they do not seem to be at an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Kapoor D, Ramavat AS, Mehndiratta M, Agrawal A, Arora V, Goel A. Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on ENT clinical practice and training: the resident's perspective. J Laryngol Otol 2021; 135:1-5. [PMID: 34612181 PMCID: PMC8523968 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215121002814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The arrival of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic disrupted life suddenly and forcefully, and healthcare systems around the world are still struggling to come to terms with it. This paper reviews the impact of the pandemic on ENT practice and training. METHODS The present manuscript was developed as a narrative review to examine the role of otorhinolaryngologists in the management of the pandemic, and assess its impact on practice and training in the specialty. RESULTS Otorhinolaryngologists handle secretions of organs implicated in disease transmission, leaving them particularly vulnerable even while performing simple procedures. Although the pandemic increased skill expectations, it simultaneously reduced learning opportunities for trainees. In addition, attention to emergencies has been delayed. Further, the suspension of elective procedures has affected patients with malignancies. CONCLUSION While planning service resumption, provisions need to be made for protective equipment and training; improving teleconsultation services will help provide sustainable care during further waves.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Kapoor
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - A S Ramavat
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, and Head and Neck Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - A Agrawal
- Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, New Delhi, India
| | - V Arora
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - A Goel
- Department of Medicine, University College of Medical Sciences, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
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Afshari D, Nourollahi-Darabad M, Chinisaz N. Psychosocial Factors Associated With Resilience Among Iranian Nurses During COVID-19 Outbreak. Front Public Health 2021; 9:714971. [PMID: 34422753 PMCID: PMC8373242 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.714971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In the face of COVID-19, healthcare workers need to cope with the ongoing stressors at play and keep psychological distress at a minimum level. This study examined the psychosocial and demographic factors associated with nurse's resilience in the hospitals of Ahvaz that is one of the top cities infected with COVID-19 in Iran. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 387 Iranian nurses in Ahvaz city. For data collection purposes, three online questionnaires (including Copenhagen Psychosocial, Demographic, and Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale) were distributed among the participants. Results: The mean resilience score was equal to 61.8 ± 14.8 for 387 nurses. Resilience had a statistically significant negative correlation with quantitative demand (r = −0.273, P < 0.008), work pace (r = −0.262, P < 0.011), emotional demand (r = −0.226, P < 0.030), stress (r = −0.458, P < 0.000), and burnout (r = −0.287, P < 0.005). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that stress, job satisfaction, burnout and age were the main predictors of nurses' resilience during the (COVID-19) pandemic (R2 = 0.45). Conclusions: We identified psychosocial and demographic predictive factors that may contribute to greater resilience among nurses during the COVID-19 outbreak. The findings of this study can be used to implement psychosocial interventions to amplify the resilience of medical staff during the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davood Afshari
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Maryam Nourollahi-Darabad
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Niloofar Chinisaz
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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13
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Frezza D, Fabbris C, Franz L, Vian E, Rigoli R, De Siati R, Emanuelli E, Bertinato L, Boscolo‐Rizzo P, Spinato G. A Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 detection method based on nasal and nasopharyngeal lavage fluid: A pilot feasibility study. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2021; 6:646-649. [PMID: 34401485 PMCID: PMC8356876 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nose and nasopharyngeal swab is the preferred and worldwide-accepted method to detect the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) within the nose and nasopharynx. This method may be linked with possible difficulties, such as patient's discomfort or complications. This article shows a pilot study of SARS-CoV-2 detection with nasal and nasopharyngeal lavage fluids (level of evidence: 3). METHODS Nasal lavage fluid was collected from patients who were submitted to SARS-CoV-2 screening test, due to a preceding positive rapid antigen test. A control group was enrolled among health care professionals whose nasopharyngeal swab tested negative. Nasal lavages were performed using isotonic saline solution injected through a nasal fossa. Both lavage fluid and traditional nasopharyngeal swab were analyzed by real-time (RT) PCR and antigenic test. RESULTS A total of 49 positive subjects were enrolled in the study. Results of the analysis on lavages and nasopharyngeal swabs were concordant for 48 cases, regardless of the antigenic and molecular test performed. RT-PCR resulted weakly positive at swab in one case and negative at lavage fluid. Among the control group (44 subjects), nasopharyngeal swab and lavage fluid analyses returned a negative result. Sensitivity of the molecular test based on nasal lavage fluid, compared to traditional nasal swab, was 97.7%, specificity was 100%, and accuracy was 98.9%, with high agreement (Cohen's κ, 0.978). CONCLUSION Nasal and nasopharyngeal lavages resulted to be highly reliable and well tolerated. A larger series is needed to confirm these results. This approach may potentially represent a valid alternative to the traditional swab method in selected cases. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Frezza
- Unit of OtorhinolaryngologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
| | | | - Leonardo Franz
- Unit of OtorhinolaryngologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of OtolaryngologyUniversity of PadovaTrevisoItaly
| | - Elisa Vian
- Department of Clinical PathologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
| | - Roberto Rigoli
- Department of Clinical PathologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
| | - Rosalba De Siati
- Unit of OtorhinolaryngologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of OtolaryngologyUniversity of PadovaTrevisoItaly
| | - Enzo Emanuelli
- Unit of OtorhinolaryngologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
| | | | - Paolo Boscolo‐Rizzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of OtolaryngologyUniversity of PadovaTrevisoItaly
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of OtolaryngologyUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly
| | - Giacomo Spinato
- Unit of OtorhinolaryngologyAULSS 2—Marca TrevigianaTrevisoItaly
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of OtolaryngologyUniversity of PadovaTrevisoItaly
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and ImmunologyUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
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14
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Spinato G, Costantini G, Fabbris C, Menegaldo A, Mularoni F, Gaudioso P, Mantovani M, Borsetto D, Vijendren A, Da Mosto MC, Boscolo-Rizzo P. The importance of early detection of ENT symptoms in mild-to-moderate COVID-19. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 41:101-107. [PMID: 34028454 PMCID: PMC8142727 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-n1038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Patients with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may present with a wide range of symptoms. In this paper, a detailed characterisation of mild-to-moderate ear, nose nd throat (ENT) symptoms is presented with the aim of recognising the disease early to help reduce further spread and progression. Methods A total of 230 cases testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 and 134 negative controls were recruited for a case-control analysis. Symptoms were analysed using the Acute Respiratory Tract Infections Questionnaire, while other symptoms were investigated by ad hoc questions. Results Among the study samples (n = 364), 149 were males and 215 were females with age ranging from 20 to 89 years (mean 52.3). Four main groups of symptoms were obtained: influenza-like symptoms, ENT-symptoms, breathing issues and asthenia-related symptoms, representing 72%, 69%, 64% and 53% of overall referred clinical manifestations, respectively. ENT symptoms, breathing issues and influenza-like symptoms were associated with positivity to SARS-CoV-2, whereas asthenia-related symptoms did not show a significant association with SARS-CoV-2 infection after controlling for other symptoms, comorbidities and demographic characteristics. Conclusions ENT symptoms are equally represented with influenza-like ones as presenting symptoms of COVID-19. Patients with ENT symptoms should be investigated for early identification and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Spinato
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy.,Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Cristoforo Fabbris
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Anna Menegaldo
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Francesca Mularoni
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Gaudioso
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Monica Mantovani
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | | | | | - Maria Cristina Da Mosto
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Otolaryngology and Regional Centre for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
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15
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Al-Kuwari MG, AbdulMalik MA, Al-Nuaimi AA, Abdulmajeed J, Al-Romaihi HE, Semaan S, Kandy M. Epidemiology Characteristics of COVID-19 Infection Amongst Primary Health Care Workers in Qatar: March-October 2020. Front Public Health 2021; 9:679254. [PMID: 34095077 PMCID: PMC8173064 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.679254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 transmission was significant among Healthcare workers worldwide. In March 2020, Qatar started reporting numbers of COVID-19 positive cases among workers in Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC). The study estimates the burden of the aforementioned infections and examines the demographic characteristics associated with the recorded positivity rates. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among Primary healthcare workers between March 1st and October 31st, 2020. The study examined the positivity rate of the different types of Primary healthcare workers and, analyzed the demographic characteristics of the infected persons. Results: 1,048 (87.4%) of the infected Health Care Workers (HCWs) belonged to the age group below 45 years, and 488 (40.7%) HCWs were females. 450 (37.5%) were HCWs clinical staff working in one of the 27 PHCC Health Centers (HCs) Despite the increased patient footfall and risk environment, the COVID dedicated HCs had an attack rate of 10.1%, which is not significantly different from the average attack rate of 8.9% among staff located in other HCs (p = 0.26). Storekeepers, engineering & maintenance staff, housekeeping staff, support staff, and security staff (outsourced non-clinical positions) had the highest positivity rates, 100, 67.2, 47.1, 32.4, and 29.5% respectively. Conclusion: The elevated risk of infection among outsourced non-clinical healthcare workers can be explained by environmental factors such as living conditions. Furthermore, better containment within clinical healthcare workers can be attributed to strict safety training and compliance with preventative measures which is recommended to be implemented across all settings.
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16
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Trecca E, Marano PG, Gelardi M, Cassano L, Verzicco GF, D'Ecclesia A, Cassano M, Longo F. Is 2020 the golden year of Otolaryngology research? The impact of COVID-19 on the Italian academic production. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2021; 92:e2021207. [PMID: 33988134 PMCID: PMC8182618 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v92i2.11557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The aim of this research was to review the articles published by the Otolaryngology (ORL) departments of the Italian University Hospitals in 2019 and in 2020 in order to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the academic production. METHODS PubMed and Scopus were searched for the articles published by the ORL departments of the Italian Universities in 2019 and in 2020. The main eligibility criteria were English-language articles, while there were no exclusion criteria related to topic. The articles were classified into seven domains corresponding to the main ORL subspecialties. RESULTS There was an overall increase in the number of articles by the 42.2% in 2020. Publications pertaining Rhinology and Laryngology increased more significantly in 2020, respectively by the 50.5% and 72.2%. Additionally, there was an increase in the number of articles concerning topics of general interest, by the 95.2% in 2020. Also, the citation trends of the articles published by the Italian University Hospitals increased remarkably in 2020. CONCLUSIONS These results evidenced an overall increase in the number of ORL articles. Although 2020 is going to be remembered as a year to forget, it should be acknowledged for being the "golden year of research".
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