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Lefkowitz B, Houdmont J, Knight A. A systematic review of dentists' psychological wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Br Dent J 2023:10.1038/s41415-023-6232-8. [PMID: 37666986 DOI: 10.1038/s41415-023-6232-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges to healthcare workers worldwide, including the effect on the psychological wellbeing of dentists.Aims To evaluate the impact of the early phases of the pandemic on the psychological health, long-term wellbeing and clinical service provision of dentists, as well as the identification of the key risk and protective factors for adverse mental health outcomes (MHOs) in this group.Methods A systematic review of cross-sectional studies (n = 53) from public and private dentistry sectors was employed to delineate the risk and protective factors for adverse MHOs.Results Self-reports from these studies (1 December 2019 to 31 December 2021), involving 45,671 dentists worldwide were analysed. Study findings were classified according to their psychological impact (as risk or protective factors), categorised as 'operational' or 'organisational' and subdivided into 'psychosocial', 'occupational', 'sociodemographic' and 'environmental' elements. A GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) certainty of evidence score was calculated for all the identified factors.Conclusions This review confirmed the negative impact of the pandemic on the MHOs of dentists worldwide. Pivotal risk factors included fear of infection, transmission to families, lack of personal protective equipment and possible direct contact with infected patients. Enhanced infection control protocols, individual resilience and organisational support were identified as important protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Lefkowitz
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King´s College London, London, SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Houdmont
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, B Floor, Yang Fujia Building, Jubilee Campus, Wollaton Road, Nottingham, NG8 1BB, United Kingdom
| | - Alec Knight
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King´s College London, London, SE1 1UL, United Kingdom.
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2
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Fernández Chávez AC, Aranaz-Andrés JM, Roncal-Redin M, Roldán Moll F, Estévez Rueda MJ, Alva García P, Aranda García Y, San Jose-Saras D. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Inappropriate Use of the Emergency Department. Microorganisms 2023; 11:423. [PMID: 36838388 PMCID: PMC9966034 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020423] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Inappropriate use of the emergency department (IEDU)-consisting of the unnecessary use of the resource by patients with no clinical need-is one of the leading causes of the loss of efficiency of the health system. Specific contexts modify routine clinical practice and usage patterns. This study aims to analyse the influence of COVID-19 on the IEDU and its causes. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional study conducted in the emergency department of a high-complexity hospital. The Hospital Emergency Suitability Protocol (HESP) was used to measure the prevalence of IEDU and its causes, comparing three pairs of periods: (1) March 2019 and 2020; (2) June 2019 and 2020; and (3) September 2019 and 2020. A bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression models, adjusted for confounding variables, were utilized. Results: In total, 822 emergency visits were included (137 per period). A total prevalence of IEDU of 14.1% was found. There was a significant decrease in IEDU in March 2020 (OR: 0.03), with a prevalence of 0.8%. No differences were found in the other periods. A mistrust in primary care was the leading cause of IEDU (65.1%). Conclusions: The impact of COVID-19 reduced the frequency of IEDU during the period of more significant population restrictions, with IEDU returning to previous levels in subsequent months. Targeted actions in the field of population education and an improvement in primary care are positioned as strategies that could mitigate its impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abelardo Claudio Fernández Chávez
- Servicio de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, 26006 Logroño, Spain
| | - Jesús María Aranaz-Andrés
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, 26006 Logroño, Spain
- Servicio de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miriam Roncal-Redin
- Servicio de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Patricia Alva García
- Servicio de Urgencias, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Diego San Jose-Saras
- Servicio de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Biología de Sistemas, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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Nejat R, Torshizi MF, Najafi DJ. S Protein, ACE2 and Host Cell Proteases in SARS-CoV-2 Cell Entry and Infectivity; Is Soluble ACE2 a Two Blade Sword? A Narrative Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020204. [PMID: 36851081 PMCID: PMC9968219 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the spread of the deadly virus SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019, researchers have restlessly sought to unravel how the virus enters the host cells. Some proteins on each side of the interaction between the virus and the host cells are involved as the major contributors to this process: (1) the nano-machine spike protein on behalf of the virus, (2) angiotensin converting enzyme II, the mono-carboxypeptidase and the key component of renin angiotensin system on behalf of the host cell, (3) some host proteases and proteins exploited by SARS-CoV-2. In this review, the complex process of SARS-CoV-2 entrance into the host cells with the contribution of the involved host proteins as well as the sequential conformational changes in the spike protein tending to increase the probability of complexification of the latter with angiotensin converting enzyme II, the receptor of the virus on the host cells, are discussed. Moreover, the release of the catalytic ectodomain of angiotensin converting enzyme II as its soluble form in the extracellular space and its positive or negative impact on the infectivity of the virus are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Nejat
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Laleh Hospital, Tehran 1467684595, Iran
- Correspondence:
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Airway Management in Adult Intensive Care Units: A Survey of Two Regions in China. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:4653494. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/4653494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The critical medicine residency training in China started in 2020, but no investigation on the practice of tracheal intubation in ICUs in China has been conducted. A survey was sent to the adult ICUs in public hospitals in Shenzhen (SZ) city and Xinjiang (XJ) province using a WeChat miniprogram to be completed by intensive care physicians. It included questions on training on intubation, intubation procedures, and changes in the use of personal protective equipment due to COVID-19. We analyzed 301 valid questionnaires which were from 72 hospitals. A total of 37% of respondents had completed training in RSI (SZ, 40% vs. XJ, 30%;
), and 50% had participated in a course on the emergency front of the neck airway (SZ, 47% vs. XJ, 54%;
). Video laryngoscopy was preferred by 75% of respondents. Manual ventilation (56%) and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (34%) were the first-line options for preoxygenation. For patients with a high risk of aspiration, nasogastric decompression (47%) and cricoid pressure (37%) were administered. Propofol (82%) and midazolam (70%) were the most commonly used induction agents. Only 19% of respondents routinely used neuromuscular blocking agents. For patients with difficult airways, a flexible endoscope was the most commonly used device by 76% of respondents. Most participants (77%) believed that the COVID-19 pandemic had significantly increased their awareness of the need for personal protective equipment during tracheal intubation. Our survey demonstrated that the ICU doctors in these areas lack adequate training in airway management.
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Development and Validation of HPLC-DAD Method for the Determination of Favipiravir and Studying the Impact of Vitamin C on the Pharmacokinetics of COVID-19 Antiviral Drug Favipiravir. SEPARATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/separations9100303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel, sensitive, and low-cost HPLC method for the rapid determination of favipiravir (FVR) in rat plasma was developed and validated, and the effect of vitamin C on FVR pharmacokinetic parameters was investigated. FVR and oxcarbazepine (IS) were separated using a mobile phase of 50% acetonitrile and 50% water (with 0.25% trifluoroacetic acid) at 1.0 mL/min flow rate and detected at λmax 289 nm. The intra- and interday values for FVR in plasma were less than 15%, with low, medium, and high QC levels for the relative recovery rate, according to ICH guidelines. Cmax values in the control and experimental groups were 558 ± 124.42 and 979.13 ± 138.10 ng/mL, respectively; t1/2 values were 7.15 ± 1.60 and 9.09 ± 1.14 h, AUC(0-t) values were 5697.70 ± 536.58 and 7381.62 ± 1577.58 ng.h/mL, and AUC(0-∞) values were 5697.70 ± 536.58 and 8192.36 ± 1721.67, respectively. According to the results, the experimental group’s Cmax of FVR was 75.17% higher than the control group’s, the Vz/F was lower, and the t1/2 was 1.86 h longer. The technique developed for determining FVR in plasma was useful for FVR pharmacokinetics and food–drug interaction investigations.
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6
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Wei X, Rong N, Liu J. Prospects of animal models and their application in studies on adaptive immunity to SARS-CoV-2. Front Immunol 2022; 13:993754. [PMID: 36189203 PMCID: PMC9523127 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.993754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The adaptive immune response induced by SARS-CoV-2 plays a key role in the antiviral process and can protect the body from the threat of infection for a certain period of time. However, owing to the limitations of clinical studies, the antiviral mechanisms, protective thresholds, and persistence of the immune memory of adaptive immune responses remain unclear. This review summarizes existing research models for SARS-CoV-2 and elaborates on the advantages of animal models in simulating the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 in humans. In addition, we systematically summarize the research progress on the SARS-CoV-2 adaptive immune response and the remaining key issues, as well as the application and prospects of animal models in this field. This paper provides direction for in-depth analysis of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of the adaptive immune response and lays the foundation for the development and application of vaccines and drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Wei
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Models of Emerging and Remerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jiangning Liu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Models of Emerging and Remerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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7
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Azghar A, Bensalah M, Berhili A, Slaoui M, Mouhoub B, El Mezgueldi I, Nassiri O, El Malki J, Maleb A, Seddik R. Value of hematological parameters for predicting patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019: a real-world cohort from Morocco. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221109381. [PMID: 35854474 PMCID: PMC9340338 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221109381] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease caused by severe acute
respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The clinical manifestations and the
evolution of patients with COVID-19 are variable. In addition to respiratory
involvement, COVID-19 leads to systemic involvement and can affect the
hematopoietic system. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of
hematological and hemocytometric parameters in predicting the severity of
patients with COVID-19. Methods We performed a retrospective study at Mohammed VI university Hospital from 1
March to 11 November 2020. We collected demographic characteristics and
hematological findings of incident COVID-19 cases. Results A total of 245 patients were included in our study. We found that the rate of
lymphopenia was significantly reduced in patients who were severely affected
by COVID-19. Additionally, the rate of neutrophilia, the neutrophil side
fluorescence light signal, monocyte fluorescent intensity, monocyte size,
the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, and
the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio were significantly elevated in patients who
were severely affected by COVID-19. Conclusions These results are consistent with the literature regarding the predictive
value of these markers. A prospective validation in a large population with
a longer follow-up is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Azghar
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Bensalah
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Abdelilah Berhili
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Mounia Slaoui
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Boutaina Mouhoub
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Imane El Mezgueldi
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Oumaima Nassiri
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Jalila El Malki
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Adil Maleb
- Microbiology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
| | - Rachid Seddik
- Hematology Laboratory, Mohammed VI University Hospital Center, Oujda, Morocco.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
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8
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Rotondo JC, Martini F, Maritati M, Caselli E, Gallenga CE, Guarino M, De Giorgio R, Mazziotta C, Tramarin ML, Badiale G, Tognon M, Contini C. Advanced Molecular and Immunological Diagnostic Methods to Detect SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Microorganisms 2022; 10:1193. [PMID: 35744711 PMCID: PMC9231257 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 emerged in late 2019 in China and quickly spread across the globe, causing over 521 million cases of infection and 6.26 million deaths to date. After 2 years, numerous advances have been made. First of all, the preventive vaccine, which has been implemented in record time, is effective in more than 95% of cases. Additionally, in the diagnostic field, there are numerous molecular and antigenic diagnostic kits that are equipped with high sensitivity and specificity. Real Time-PCR-based assays for the detection of viral RNA are currently considered the gold-standard method for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and can be used efficiently on pooled nasopharyngeal, or oropharyngeal samples for widespread screening. Moreover, additional, and more advanced molecular methods such as droplet-digital PCR (ddPCR), clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS), are currently under development to detect the SARS-CoV-2 RNA. However, as the number of subjects infected with SARS-CoV-2 continuously increases globally, health care systems are being placed under increased stress. Thus, the clinical laboratory plays an important role, helping to select especially asymptomatic individuals who are actively carrying the live replicating virus, with fast and non-invasive molecular technologies. Recent diagnostic strategies, other than molecular methods, have been adopted to either detect viral antigens, i.e., antigen-based immunoassays, or human anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, i.e., antibody-based immunoassays, in nasal or oropharyngeal swabs, as well as in blood or saliva samples. However, the role of mucosal sIgAs, which are essential in the control of viruses entering the body through mucosal surfaces, remains to be elucidated, and in particular the role of the immune response in counteracting SARS-CoV-2 infection, primarily at the site(s) of virus entry that appears to be promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Orthopaedic Ward, Casa di Cura Santa Maria Maddalena, 45030 Occhiobello, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology, CIAS Research Center and LTTA, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Carla Enrica Gallenga
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Matteo Guarino
- Department of Translational Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, University of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (M.G.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Roberto De Giorgio
- Department of Translational Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, University of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (M.G.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Tramarin
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Giada Badiale
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
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De R, Dutta S. Role of the Microbiome in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:736397. [PMID: 35433495 PMCID: PMC9009446 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.736397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing pandemic coronavirus disease COVID-19 is caused by the highly contagious single-stranded RNA virus, SARS-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has a high rate of evolution like other RNA viruses. The first genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 were available in early 2020. Subsequent whole-genome sequencing revealed that the virus had accumulated several mutations in genes associated with viral replication and pathogenesis. These variants showed enhanced transmissibility and infectivity. Soon after the first outbreak due to the wild-type strain in December 2019, a genetic variant D614G emerged in late January to early February 2020 and became the dominant genotype worldwide. Thereafter, several variants emerged, which were found to harbor mutations in essential viral genes encoding proteins that could act as drug and vaccine targets. Numerous vaccines have been successfully developed to assuage the burden of COVID-19. These have different rates of efficacy, including, although rarely, a number of vaccinated individuals exhibiting side effects like thrombosis. However, the recent emergence of the Britain strain with 70% more transmissibility and South African variants with higher resistance to vaccines at a time when several countries have approved these for mass immunization has raised tremendous concern regarding the long-lasting impact of currently available prophylaxis. Apart from studies addressing the pathophysiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic targets of SARS-CoV-2, analysis of the gut, oral, nasopharyngeal, and lung microbiome dysbiosis has also been undertaken to find a link between the microbiome and the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Therefore, in the current scenario of skepticism regarding vaccine efficacy and challenges over the direct effects of currently available drugs looming large, investigation of alternative therapeutic avenues based on the microbiome can be a rewarding finding. This review presents the currently available understanding of microbiome dysbiosis and its association with cause and consequence of COVID-19. Taking cues from other inflammatory diseases, we propose a hypothesis of how the microbiome may be influencing homeostasis, pro-inflammatory condition, and the onset of inflammation. This accentuates the importance of a healthy microbiome as a protective element to prevent the onset of COVID-19. Finally, the review attempts to identify areas where the application of microbiome research can help in reducing the burden of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rituparna De
- Division of Bacteriology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkota, India
- Division of Immunology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkota, India
| | - Shanta Dutta
- Division of Bacteriology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkota, India
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10
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Liu X, Du S, Feng R, Yan L, Huang Y, Ye W. Knowledge of COVID-19 and its prevention among rural residents in Fuqing, China. Int J Nurs Sci 2022; 9:196-202. [PMID: 35251749 PMCID: PMC8883818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Rural areas are the weakest place for epidemic prevention and control, yet few studies have specifically conducted surveys in rural areas. The purpose of this study is to assess rural residents’ knowledge of the COVID-19 and its prevention in China. Methods A cross-sectional survey study containing 1,426 samples was conducted in Fuqing, China to assess rural residents’ knowledge of the COVID-19 and its prevention. Logistic regression was used to identify potential differences in participants’ knowledge of COVID-19 and its prevention and control in different population subgroups. Results The mean and median of residents’ knowledge of COVID-19 was 5.53 and 6 points, respectively. The mean and median of residents’ knowledge related to self-protection against COVID-19 was 10.34 and 11 points, respectively. Older adults (AOR45–59 = 2.26, 95% CI 1.20 to 4.27; AOR60-69 = 3.13, 95% CI 1.63 to 5.98; AOR≥70 = 4.68, 95% CI 2.35 to 9.33) were more deficient in knowledge of COVID-19. Those who were better educated and with a higher average annual household income were less likely to be deficient in the knowledge of COVID-19 and knowledge of self-protection against COVID-19. Moreover, those who were single, divorced, or widowed (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.46) were more deficient in the knowledge of self-protection against COVID-19. Conclusions Our study suggests that when facing a pandemic like COVID-19, the key is to inform the public to understand simple and effective self-protection measures. Therefore, we call on the governments to give priority to publicity and education on self-prevention measures for the targeted populations and regions. This is most evident among the vulnerable groups like those who were unmarried, elderly, and those with low education or low income. Similar suggestions may be of use in other countries as well.
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11
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D’Accolti M, Soffritti I, Bini F, Mazziga E, Mazzacane S, Caselli E. Pathogen Control in the Built Environment: A Probiotic-Based System as a Remedy for the Spread of Antibiotic Resistance. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10020225. [PMID: 35208679 PMCID: PMC8876034 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The high and sometimes inappropriate use of disinfectants and antibiotics has led to alarming levels of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and to high water and hearth pollution, which today represent major threats for public health. Furthermore, the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has deeply influenced our sanitization habits, imposing the massive use of chemical disinfectants potentially exacerbating both concerns. Moreover, super-sanitation can profoundly influence the environmental microbiome, potentially resulting counterproductive when trying to stably eliminate pathogens. Instead, environmentally friendly procedures based on microbiome balance principles, similar to what applied to living organisms, may be more effective, and probiotic-based eco-friendly sanitation has been consistently reported to provide stable reduction of both pathogens and AMR in treated-environments, compared to chemical disinfectants. Here, we summarize the results of the studies performed in healthcare settings, suggesting that such an approach may be applied successfully also to non-healthcare environments, including the domestic ones, based on its effectiveness, safety, and negligible environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D’Accolti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
- CIAS Research Center, University of Ferrara, Via Saragat 13, 44122 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
- CIAS Research Center, University of Ferrara, Via Saragat 13, 44122 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Francesca Bini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Eleonora Mazziga
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Sante Mazzacane
- CIAS Research Center, University of Ferrara, Via Saragat 13, 44122 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.D.); (I.S.); (F.B.); (E.M.)
- CIAS Research Center, University of Ferrara, Via Saragat 13, 44122 Ferrara, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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12
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Sivritepe R, Uçak Basat S, Baygul A, Küçük EV. The effect of interleukin-6 level at the time of hospitalisation on erectile functions in hospitalised patients with COVID-19. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14285. [PMID: 34687052 PMCID: PMC8646451 DOI: 10.1111/and.14285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED) and IL-6 levels in males with COVID-19. The study included 80 male patients aged 30-45 years who were hospitalised due to COVID-19. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire was used to assess erectile function. The IIEF-5 questionnaire was re-administered at a 3-month control visit after discharge, and the change score from baseline was recorded. The patients were divided into three groups according to the IIEF-5 score at 3 months as Group 1 (severe ED), Group 2 (moderate ED) and Group 3 (no ED), and into two groups according to IL-6 level at the time of admission as Group A (IL-6 ≤ 50 ng/ml) and Group B (IL-6 > 50 ng/ml). The change in the IIEF-5 score (p < .001) was significantly greater in Group B than in Group A. There was also significant difference in IL-6 between Group 1 and Group 2 (p = .008). The correlation analysis revealed a moderate correlation between IL-6 level and the change in IIEF-5 score and D-dimer level (r:0.529, p < .001) and a weak correlation between IL-6 level and FSH (r:0.309, p = .005). The present study suggests that elevated IL-6 levels in male patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 might be related to the risk of developing ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rıdvan Sivritepe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sema Uçak Basat
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences Umraniye Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Arzu Baygul
- Department of Basic Sciences, Koç University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Eyüp Veli Küçük
- Department of Urology, University of Health Sciences Umraniye Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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El-Sayed A, Abdel-Daim MM, Kamel M. Zoonotic and anthropozoonotic potential of COVID-19 and its implications for public health. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:52599-52609. [PMID: 34523089 PMCID: PMC8439532 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16415-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amr El-Sayed
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M Abdel-Daim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah, 21442, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Kamel
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt.
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14
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Sipos S, Vlad C, Prejbeanu R, Haragus H, Vlad D, Cristian H, Dumitrascu C, Popescu R, Dumitrascu V, Predescu V. Impact of COVID-19 prevention measures on Clostridioides difficile infections in a regional acute care hospital. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1215. [PMID: 34584560 PMCID: PMC8422384 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) is a common cause of nosocomial diarrhea. The multi-modal infection control strategies designed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic have had an unintended positive effect on other hospital-acquired infections. The aim of the present study was to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 prevention measures on healthcare-associated C. difficile infections in a large regional acute care center. Electronic databases were reviewed from the start of the pandemic (March) up to November 2020. Average values from the same months from 2019 and 2018 were used as controls. Using the ICD-10 discharge coding, 65 C. difficile cases per 25,124 patients were identified in 2020 compared to 151/43,126 from the 2018 and 2019 averages (P=0.0484). The C. difficile cases were found to be decreased after the implementation of COVID-19 infection control strategies compared to previous years, despite an increase in antibiotic use. Subset analysis during lockdown showed a clear decrease but the difference was not statistically significant. For the months of recovery after lockdown, the number of cases was comparable to previous years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Sipos
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Radu Prejbeanu
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.,Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Premiere Hospital, 300643 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Horia Haragus
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daliborca Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Horia Cristian
- Department of Surgery II, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Dumitrascu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Popescu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Victor Dumitrascu
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Vlad Predescu
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, 'Ponderas' Academic Hospital, 014142 Bucharest, Romania
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15
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Rotondo JC, Martini F, Maritati M, Mazziotta C, Di Mauro G, Lanzillotti C, Barp N, Gallerani A, Tognon M, Contini C. SARS-CoV-2 Infection: New Molecular, Phylogenetic, and Pathogenetic Insights. Efficacy of Current Vaccines and the Potential Risk of Variants. Viruses 2021; 13:1687. [PMID: 34578269 PMCID: PMC8473168 DOI: 10.3390/v13091687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a newly discovered coronavirus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. COVID-19 has rapidly become a public health emergency of international concern. Although remarkable scientific achievements have been reached since the beginning of the pandemic, the knowledge behind this novel coronavirus, in terms of molecular and pathogenic characteristics and zoonotic potential, is still relatively limited. Today, there is a vaccine, or rather several vaccines, which, for the first time in the history of highly contagious infectious diseases that have plagued mankind, has been manufactured in just one year. Currently, four vaccines are licensed by regulatory agencies, and they use RNA or viral vector technologies. The positive effects of the vaccination campaign are being felt in many parts of the world, but the disappearance of this new infection is still far from being a reality, as it is also threatened by the presence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants that could undermine the effectiveness of the vaccine, hampering the immunization control efforts. Indeed, the current findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 is adapting to transmission in humans more efficiently, while further divergence from the initial archetype should be considered. In this review, we aimed to provide a collection of the current knowledge regarding the molecular, phylogenetic, and pathogenetic insights into SARS-CoV-2. The most recent findings obtained with respect to the impact of novel emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants as well as the development and implementation of vaccines are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Mauro
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicole Barp
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Altea Gallerani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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16
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Soffritti I, D’Accolti M, Fabbri C, Passaro A, Manfredini R, Zuliani G, Libanore M, Franchi M, Contini C, Caselli E. Oral Microbiome Dysbiosis Is Associated With Symptoms Severity and Local Immune/Inflammatory Response in COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:687513. [PMID: 34248910 PMCID: PMC8261071 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.687513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The human oral microbiome (HOM) is the second largest microbial community after the gut and can impact the onset and progression of several localized and systemic diseases, including those of viral origin, especially for viruses entering the body via the oropharynx. However, this important aspect has not been clarified for the new pandemic human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, causing COVID-19 disease, despite it being one of the many respiratory viruses having the oropharynx as the primary site of replication. In particular, no data are available about the non-bacterial components of the HOM (fungi, viruses), which instead has been shown to be crucial for other diseases. Consistent with this, this study aimed to define the HOM in COVID-19 patients, to evidence any association between its profile and the clinical disease. Seventy-five oral rinse samples were analyzed by Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to simultaneously identify oral bacteria, fungi, and viruses. To correlate the HOM profile with local virus replication, the SARS-CoV-2 amount in the oral cavity was quantified by digital droplet PCR. Moreover, local inflammation and secretory immune response were also assessed, respectively by measuring the local release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (L-6, IL-17, TNFα, and GM-CSF) and the production of secretory immunoglobulins A (sIgA). The results showed the presence of oral dysbiosis in COVID-19 patients compared to matched controls, with significantly decreased alpha-diversity value and lower species richness in COVID-19 subjects. Notably, oral dysbiosis correlated with symptom severity (p = 0.006), and increased local inflammation (p < 0.01). In parallel, a decreased mucosal sIgA response was observed in more severely symptomatic patients (p = 0.02), suggesting that local immune response is important in the early control of virus infection and that its correct development is influenced by the HOM profile. In conclusion, the data presented here suggest that the HOM profile may be important in defining the individual susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, facilitating inflammation and virus replication, or rather, inducing a protective IgA response. Although it is not possible to determine whether the alteration in the microbial community is the cause or effect of the SARS-CoV-2 replication, these parameters may be considered as markers for personalized therapy and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Soffritti
- Section of Microbiology, CIAS Research Center and LTTA, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria D’Accolti
- Section of Microbiology, CIAS Research Center and LTTA, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Fabbri
- Section of Dentistry, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angela Passaro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredini
- Medical Clinic Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Libanore
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Franchi
- Section of Dentistry, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology, CIAS Research Center and LTTA, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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17
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Huo X, Chen J, Ruan S. Estimating asymptomatic, undetected and total cases for the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan: a mathematical modeling study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:476. [PMID: 34034662 PMCID: PMC8148404 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06078-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan started in December 2019 and was under control by the end of March 2020 with a total of 50,006 confirmed cases by the implementation of a series of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) including unprecedented lockdown of the city. This study analyzes the complete outbreak data from Wuhan, assesses the impact of these public health interventions, and estimates the asymptomatic, undetected and total cases for the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan. METHODS By taking different stages of the outbreak into account, we developed a time-dependent compartmental model to describe the dynamics of disease transmission and case detection and reporting. Model coefficients were parameterized by using the reported cases and following key events and escalated control strategies. Then the model was used to calibrate the complete outbreak data by using the Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) method. Finally we used the model to estimate asymptomatic and undetected cases and approximate the overall antibody prevalence level. RESULTS We found that the transmission rate between Jan 24 and Feb 1, 2020, was twice as large as that before the lockdown on Jan 23 and 67.6% (95% CI [0.584,0.759]) of detectable infections occurred during this period. Based on the reported estimates that around 20% of infections were asymptomatic and their transmission ability was about 70% of symptomatic ones, we estimated that there were about 14,448 asymptomatic and undetected cases (95% CI [12,364,23,254]), which yields an estimate of a total of 64,454 infected cases (95% CI [62,370,73,260]), and the overall antibody prevalence level in the population of Wuhan was 0.745% (95% CI [0.693%,0.814%]) by March 31, 2020. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the control of the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan was achieved via the enforcement of a combination of multiple NPIs: the lockdown on Jan 23, the stay-at-home order on Feb 2, the massive isolation of all symptomatic individuals via newly constructed special shelter hospitals on Feb 6, and the large scale screening process on Feb 18. Our results indicate that the population in Wuhan is far away from establishing herd immunity and provide insights for other affected countries and regions in designing control strategies and planing vaccination programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Huo
- Department of Mathematics, University of Miami, 1365 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Mathematics, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33314, USA
| | - Shigui Ruan
- Department of Mathematics, University of Miami, 1365 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA.
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1475 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL, 33316, USA.
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18
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Trancossi M, Carli C, Cannistraro G, Pascoa J, Sharma S. Could thermodynamics and heat and mass transfer research produce a fundamental step advance toward and significant reduction of SARS-COV-2 spread? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER 2021; 170:120983. [PMID: 33495658 PMCID: PMC7816940 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheatmasstransfer.2021.120983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
We are living an extraordinary season of uncertainty and danger, which is caused by SARS-Cov-2 infection and consequent COVID-19 infection. This preliminary study comes from both a mix of entrepreneurial experience and scientific research. It is aimed by the exigency to reach a new and more effective analysis of the risks on the filed and to reduce them inside a necessary cooperation process which may regard both research and some of the economic activities which are damaged by passive protection measures such as indiscriminate lockdowns. This global emergency requires specific efforts by any discipline that regards specific problems which need to be solved urgently. The characteristic airborne diffusion patterns of COVID-19 shows that the airborne presence of viruses depends on multiple factors which include the dimension of microdroplets emitted by a contagious person, the atmospheric temperature and humidity, the presence of atmospheric particulate and pollution, which may act as a transport vehicle for the virus. The pandemic diffusion shows a particular correlation with the air quality and levels of atmospheric pollution. Specific problems need to solved to understand better the virus, its reliability, diffusion, replication, how it attacks the persons and the conditions, which drives to both positive and deadly evolution of the illness. Most of these problems may benefit from the contribution from both heat and mass transfer and the unsteady thermodynamics of living systems which evolves according to constructal law. After the bibliographic research on the virus, emissive and spread modes, and consequent today adopted protection, a detailed analysis of the contributions which may be assessed by research in thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, technical and chemical physics. Some possible areas of research have been identified and discussed to start an effective mobilization which may support the effort of the research toward a significant reduction of the impacts of the pandemic infection and the economic risks of new generalized lockdowns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Trancossi
- IIS Galvani, Milano, Italy
- Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal
| | | | | | - Jose Pascoa
- Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal
| | - Shivesh Sharma
- Ethical Property Management Italia srl, Parma 43125, Italy
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Non-Respiratory Symptoms of Patients Infected with SARS-CoV-2 (Coronavirus Disease 2019): Lessons from Their Initial Presentation at the Hospital. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57040344. [PMID: 33918326 PMCID: PMC8067307 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57040344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads, it is becoming increasingly evident that this coronavirus is not limited to the respiratory system and that the musculoskeletal system can also be affected. The purpose of the present study was to describe non-respiratory symptoms of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases. Materials and Methods: All patients with SARS-CoV-2 admitted to our hospital, between 1 August and 30 September 2020, were included in this retrospective study. Data were extracted from medical records. Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory and radiological characteristics at the initial presentation at the hospital were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 79 COVID-19 patients were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 44.08 years (age range, 18–87 years) and 59.5% were male. The most common symptoms were fatigue in 60 (75.9%) patients, followed by fever (73.4%), myalgia (51.9%), cough (41.8%), anosmia (38%) and arthralgia (36.7%). The muscles of the upper back and the knee joint were the most painful anatomic region and joint, respectively. The laboratory findings on admission showed that D-dimer, CRP and procalcitonin levels were increased, without significant gender differences (p > 0.05). Chest imaging demonstrated pneumonia in 20 (25.3%) patients. Conclusions: Our results indicate that from the onset of the symptoms of COVID-19 patients, musculoskeletal symptoms, such as fatigue, myalgia and arthralgia, were present in three-quarters of all patients. These findings could help elaborate updated triage and admission protocols for suspect COVID-19 patients at the hospital and Emergency Department presentation.
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Khurana I, Allawadhi P, Khurana A, Srivastava AK, Navik U, Banothu AK, Bharani KK. Can bilirubin nanomedicine become a hope for the management of COVID-19? Med Hypotheses 2021; 149:110534. [PMID: 33640714 PMCID: PMC7881296 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bilirubin has been proven to possess significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral activities. Recently, it has been postulated as a metabolic hormone. Further, moderately higher levels of bilirubin are positively associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity. However, due to poor solubility the therapeutic delivery of bilirubin remains a challenge. Nanotechnology offers unique advantages which may be exploited for improved delivery of bilirubin to the target organ with reduced risk of systemic toxicity. Herein, we postulate the use of intravenous administration or inhalational delivery of bilirubin nanomedicine (BNM) to combat systemic dysfunctions associated with COVID-19, owing to the remarkable preclinical efficacy and optimistic results of various clinical studies of bilirubin in non-communicable disorders. BNM may be used to harness the proven preclinical pharmacological efficacy of bilirubin against COVID-19 related systemic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha Khurana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Amit Khurana
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India; Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India; Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal 506166, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India.
| | - Amit Kumar Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151001, Punjab, India
| | - Anil Kumar Banothu
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad 500030, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India; Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, College of Fishery Science, Pebbair, Wanaparthy 509104, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India
| | - Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Warangal 506166, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India; Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, College of Fishery Science, Pebbair, Wanaparthy 509104, PVNRTVU, Telangana, India.
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21
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The Importance of Atmospheric Microbial Contamination Control in Dental Offices: Raised Awareness Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11052359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: In the context of the Sars-CoV-2 pandemic that started in 2020, more attention is being paid to the air quality in medical offices. The medical, economic and social implications of this crisis are unprecedented. Dental offices, particularly, were significantly affected by this pandemic due to the high exposure of dental workers, limited availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and serious financial problems. Methods: Four different procedures were compared regarding their effectiveness in air contamination reduction, both from a biological point of view and from a management point of view: Fogging, Ultraviolet C (UVC) lamps, UVC air circulation units and natural ventilation. A total of 56 Petri dishes were used to evaluate air contamination. Results: All four procedures offered good results but the decontamination time and overall effect varied depending on the chosen method. Fogging was the only method that managed to remove all the identifiable pathogens. Conclusions: Fogging proved to be superior from a medical point of view, while the UVC air circulation unit proved to be more efficient from a management point of view.
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22
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Anti-SARS-Cov-2 IgA Response in Tears of COVID-19 Patients. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9110374. [PMID: 33153065 PMCID: PMC7692042 DOI: 10.3390/biology9110374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary SARS-CoV-2 can enter the body via the eye but the local antiviral response is still poorly known, we thus analyzed the presence of mucosal antibodies in the tears of COVID-19 patients. The results show that 35.7% of COVID-19 subjects have specific antiviral secretory antibodies in the eye. Their detection may be extremely helpful in clarifying, at this level, virus pathology and epidemiology. Abstract The pandemic virus SARS-CoV-2 has been reported to be able to enter the body via the eye conjunctiva, but the presence of antiviral response in the eye remains poorly known. Our study was thus aimed to analyze the presence of secretory mucosal anti-SARS-CoV-2 type A immunoglobulins (IgA) in the conjunctival fluid of COVID-19 patients. The tears of 28 COVID-19 patients and 20 uninfected controls were collected by the Schirmer test and analyzed by a specific ELISA assay detecting anti-spike (S1) virus protein IgA. The results showed that 35.7% of COVID-19 subjects have specific antiviral IgA at the ocular level, persisting till 48 days post disease onset. Most of the IgA positive subjects presented mild symptoms. The collected data indicate a prolonged persistence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA at the eye level and suggest that IgA detection may be extremely helpful in clarifying virus pathology and epidemiology.
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In silico Investigation on the Inhibiting Role of Nicotine/Caffeine by Blocking the S Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Versus ACE2 Receptor. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8101600. [PMID: 33080900 PMCID: PMC7603175 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8101600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we studied the in silico interaction of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) human receptor with two bioactive compounds, i.e., nicotine and caffeine, via molecular dynamic (MD) simulations. The simulations reveal the efficient blocking of ACE2 by caffeine and nicotine in the exposure to the spike (S) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We have selected the two most important active sites of ACE2-S protein, i.e., 6LZG and 6VW1, which are critically responsible in the interaction of S protein to the receptor and thus, we investigated their interaction with nicotine and caffeine through MD simulations. Caffeine and nicotine are interesting structures for interactions because of their similar structure to the candidate antiviral drugs. Our results reveal that caffeine or nicotine in a specific molar ratio to 6LZG shows a very strong interaction and indicate that caffeine is more efficient in the interaction with 6LZG and further blocking of this site against S protein binding. Further, we investigated the interaction of ACE2 receptor- S protein with nicotine or caffeine when mixed with candidate or approved antiviral drugs for SARS-CoV-2 therapy. Our MD simulations suggest that the combination of caffeine with ribavirin shows a stronger interaction with 6VW1, while in case of favipiravir+nicotine, 6LZG shows potent efficacy of these interaction, proposing the potent efficacy of these combinations for blocking ACE2 receptor against SARS-CoV-2.
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