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Barma S, Das MKL, Patel P, Gurung S. Socio-psychological behavior on COVID-19 patients from neighbors during home isolation in Kathmandu Valley-a cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2025; 25:352. [PMID: 40082756 PMCID: PMC11905620 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-025-10725-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2025] [Indexed: 03/16/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Coronavirus related to the RNA virus is mainly transmitted through droplet nuclei from infected persons cough, sneeze, etc. It aims to assess the socio-psychological behaviors of COVID-19 patients from neighbors during home isolation. METHODS A cross-sectional study in Kathmandu Valley assessed the socio-psychological behavior of neighbors toward COVID-19 patients in home isolation. Validated questionnaires collected data from randomly selected respondents. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted, with P < 0.05 considered significant. RESULT The study included 422 respondents (54% male, 46% female), with most aged 36-45 years (38.6%), and followed by 46-55 years (21.1%). The most belonged to the middle class (39.8%) or poor economic status (38.6%). Regarding COVID-19, 66.4% of respondents' neighbors were known of their infection, with 49.8% avoiding them, 42.4% ignoring them, and 36.6% maintaining social distance. Furthermore, 60.2% of respondents faced protests to leave home isolation and go to a government isolation center, and 69.2% reported had not received support from neighbors. Among the 30.8% who received support, primarily emotional (55.4%), followed by financial and medical support (18.5% each). Neighbor behavior significantly impacted respondents' psychological well-being, with 27% experiencing depression, 21.3% anxiety, and 19.5% stress. A statistically significant association was observed between neighbor behavior and psychological effects, with a p-value of 0.023 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The majority of respondents experienced depression, anxiety, and stress due to their neighbor's ignorance, social distancing, and avoidance behavior. The psychological effects were significantly associated with neighbor's behaviors and home isolation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachita Barma
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Program, School of Health and Allied Sciences, Pokhara University, Pokhara-30, Kaski, Nepal.
- Valley College of Technical Sciences, Purbanchal University, Kathmandu, Nepal.
| | - Mukesh K L Das
- Valley College of Technical Sciences, Purbanchal University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Puja Patel
- Valley College of Technical Sciences, Purbanchal University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Sanjeev Gurung
- Valley College of Technical Sciences, Purbanchal University, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Ghaffar WB, Faisal Khan M, Abdul Ghaffar MB, Sohaib M, Rayani A, Mehmood Alam M, Sibtain ST, Cheema Z, Latif A. A Comparison of the Outcomes of COVID-19 Vaccinated and Nonvaccinated Patients Admitted to an Intensive Care Unit in a Low-Middle-Income Country. Crit Care Res Pract 2024; 2024:9571132. [PMID: 39397887 PMCID: PMC11469933 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9571132] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients critically afflicted with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) often need intensive care unit (ICU) admission, despite comprehensive vaccination campaigns. The challenges faced by healthcare systems in low-middle-income countries, including limited infrastructure and resources, play a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes for these patients. This study aimed to meticulously compare outcomes between COVID-19 vaccinated and nonvaccinated patients admitted to the ICU. In addition, demographic factors and the ICU course influencing mortality were also assessed. A retrospective review of records from the COVID-ICU of Aga Khan University Hospital spanning July 2021-March 2022 included 133 patients. Statistical analyses, encompassing the Mann-Whitney U-test and chi-square/Fisher exact test, discerned quantitative and qualitative differences. Stepwise multivariable logistic regression models with forward selection identified factors associated with hospital mortality. Results revealed comparable cohorts: vaccinated (48.13%) and nonvaccinated (51.87%). Vaccinated individuals, characterized by advanced age and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index, exhibited more critical disease (89.1%; p value: 0.06), acute respiratory distress syndrome (96.9%; p value: 0.013) and elevated inflammatory markers. Despite these differences, both cohorts exhibited similar overall outcomes. Factors such as decreased PaO2/FiO2 ratio on admission and complications during ICU stay were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. In conclusion, despite advanced age and increased frailty among vaccinated patients, their mortality rate remained comparable to nonvaccinated counterparts. These findings underscore the pivotal role of vaccination in mitigating severe outcomes within this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Bin Ghaffar
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P. O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Faisal Khan
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P. O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Sohaib
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P. O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | - Asma Rayani
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P.O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Mehmood Alam
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P.O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | - Syed Talha Sibtain
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P.O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | - Zahra Cheema
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P. O. Box 3500, Pakistan
| | - Asad Latif
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi P. O. Box 3500, Pakistan
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Roohparvar Basmenj E, Omidvar B, Kiumarsy A, Izadkhah H, Ghiabi S. Design of a multi-epitope-based peptide vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant using bioinformatics approach. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:7945-7956. [PMID: 37539837 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2241926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, a member of the coronavirus family, is an RNA virus characterized by a single-stranded genome and is responsible for the development of COVID-19. The emergence of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 in 2021 marked a significant variation recognized by the World Health Organization. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the spike glycoprotein of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 and identify potential immunogenic epitopes in order to design multi-epitope vaccine constructs. Among the other major structural proteins of the coronavirus, the spike glycoprotein stands out as the largest. Importantly, individuals who have recovered from SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 were found to possess antibodies that target the spike glycoprotein. This article asserts that the vaccine presented in this study has the potential to elicit immune responses against previous variants, including the Omicron variant, as well as future variations. This is attributed to the utilization of a Java-based tool, which facilitated the identification of conserved epitopes with high immunogenicity scores, ensuring their non-toxic and non-allergenic properties. Our analysis provides strong evidence for the conservation of these epitopes across all coronavirus sequences detected in various countries since the beginning of the pandemic. The vaccine was subsequently constructed by integrating the identified conserved epitopes with linkers and adjuvants. The vaccine was subsequently evaluated through computational tests to assess their efficacy and performance.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Behnoosh Omidvar
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Armity Kiumarsy
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habib Izadkhah
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shamim Ghiabi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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SINGH MAIREMBAMSTELIN, YELLABOINA SAILU, ANSARI MAIRAJAHMED. A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON THE MULTIFACETED INTERACTIONS BETWEEN HOST IMMUNITY AND VIRAL PATHOGENESIS IN COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHARMACEUTICS 2024:37-45. [DOI: 10.22159/ijap.2024v16i4.50576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2025]
Abstract
The Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic has presented unparalleled challenges, marked by a wide array of clinical presentations spanning from asymptomatic carriage to severe respiratory compromise and multi-organ dysfunction. It is crucial to comprehend the intricate interplay between host immunity and viral pathogenesis to elucidate disease mechanisms and guide therapeutic strategies. This review delves into the multifaceted interactions between host immunity and viral pathogenesis in COVID-19, with a particular focus on the impact of host factors such as age, sex, comorbidities, and genetic predisposition on disease severity. Utilizing state-of-the-art methodologies, including multiomics approaches, has yielded an expansive molecular portrayal of COVID-19, furnishing innovative perspectives on host immune reactions, viral pathogenicity, and disease advancement. Establishing standardized methodologies for data analysis and interpretation while concurrently addressing ethical considerations and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration are crucial steps in advancing our comprehension of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Despite obstacles like complexities in data integration, this review highlights the imperative of persistent endeavors in deciphering the complex interactions between hosts and pathogens to alleviate the global health ramifications of COVID-19.
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Lee JS, Baek CY, Kim HD, Kim DY. Effect of robot-assisted stair climbing training as part of a rehabilitation program to improve pulmonary function, gait performance, balance, and exercise capacity in a patient after severe coronavirus disease 2019: a case report. Physiother Theory Pract 2024; 40:1628-1634. [PMID: 36752656 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2023.2175188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection may decrease respiratory and physical functions. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether robot-assisted stair climbing training (RASCT) would improve pulmonary and physical functions in a patient post-severe COVID-19 infection. CASE DESCRIPTION A 48-year-old woman who had experienced severe COVID-19 underwent a 6-week inpatient rehabilitation. She persistently exhibited impaired pulmonary and physical functions, including walking and balance impairment. We provided a 30-min outpatient RASCT biweekly for 6 weeks. OUTCOMES After training, maximal inspiratory and maximal expiratory pressures improved from 81 and 74 cmH2O to 104 and 81 cmH2O, respectively. The walking speed improved from 1.15 to 1.21 m/s. In balance ability, physical performance battery score and timed up-and-go test improved from 8 to 11 s and 10.89 to 9.95 s, respectively. Regarding exercise capacity, the 6-min walk test distance improved from 453 to 482 m, and the number of 1-min sit-to-stand test improved from 20 to 23, with improved pulse rate and saturation level. The physical and psychological domain scores of the World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale-BREF improved from 44 to 63 and 69 to 81, respectively; Falls Efficacy Scale-International scores improved from 38 to 21. CONCLUSION RASCT, as part of a rehabilitation plan, was feasible and effective for this patient after severe COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- June Sung Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Health Insurance Ilsan Hospital, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Yoon Baek
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Health Insurance Ilsan Hospital, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Dong Kim
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Yeong Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Health Insurance Ilsan Hospital, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
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Amorim VMDF, Soares EP, Ferrari ASDA, Merighi DGS, de Souza RF, Guzzo CR, de Souza AS. 3-Chymotrypsin-like Protease (3CLpro) of SARS-CoV-2: Validation as a Molecular Target, Proposal of a Novel Catalytic Mechanism, and Inhibitors in Preclinical and Clinical Trials. Viruses 2024; 16:844. [PMID: 38932137 PMCID: PMC11209289 DOI: 10.3390/v16060844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteases represent common targets in combating infectious diseases, including COVID-19. The 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) is a validated molecular target for COVID-19, and it is key for developing potent and selective inhibitors for inhibiting viral replication of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we discuss structural relationships and diverse subsites of 3CLpro, shedding light on the pivotal role of dimerization and active site architecture in substrate recognition and catalysis. Our analysis of bioinformatics and other published studies motivated us to investigate a novel catalytic mechanism for the SARS-CoV-2 polyprotein cleavage by 3CLpro, centering on the triad mechanism involving His41-Cys145-Asp187 and its indispensable role in viral replication. Our hypothesis is that Asp187 may participate in modulating the pKa of the His41, in which catalytic histidine may act as an acid and/or a base in the catalytic mechanism. Recognizing Asp187 as a crucial component in the catalytic process underscores its significance as a fundamental pharmacophoric element in drug design. Next, we provide an overview of both covalent and non-covalent inhibitors, elucidating advancements in drug development observed in preclinical and clinical trials. By highlighting various chemical classes and their pharmacokinetic profiles, our review aims to guide future research directions toward the development of highly selective inhibitors, underscore the significance of 3CLpro as a validated therapeutic target, and propel the progression of drug candidates through preclinical and clinical phases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Cristiane Rodrigues Guzzo
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 5508-900, Brazil; (V.M.d.F.A.); (E.P.S.); (A.S.d.A.F.); (D.G.S.M.); (R.F.d.S.)
| | - Anacleto Silva de Souza
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 5508-900, Brazil; (V.M.d.F.A.); (E.P.S.); (A.S.d.A.F.); (D.G.S.M.); (R.F.d.S.)
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Mekonen ZT, Fenta TG, Nadeem SP, Cho DJ. Global Health Commodities Supply Chain in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges, Impacts, and Prospects: A Systematic Review. J Multidiscip Healthc 2024; 17:1523-1539. [PMID: 38623396 PMCID: PMC11018129 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s448654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic led to the most substantial health crisis in the 21st Century. This pandemic interrupted the supply of essential commodities for human beings. Among the essential commodities for human survival, disruption of the supply of essential health commodities has become a global concern. Objective The study aimed to systematically analyze published articles on the challenges, impacts, and prospects of the global health commodities' supply chain in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A standard searching strategy was conducted in seven research databases to retrieve pertinent articles. Finally, 459 articles were retrieved for further screening, and only 13 articles were selected for final synthesis. Results Almost 38.5% of the studies targeted the supply chain of health commodities used to treat HIV, TB, and malaria. Lockdown policies, travel restrictions, lack of transportation, low manufacturing capacity, and rising costs were the significant challenges indicated for the supply interruption of essential health commodities and COVID-19 vaccines. Findings indicated that the supply interruption of essential health commodities leads to a devastating impact on global health. Conclusion Global medicine shortages due to the pandemic crisis can have a devastatingly harmful impact on patient outcomes and might result in a devastatingly long-lasting effect on the health of the world community. Supply-related challenges of the COVID-19 vaccine affect countries' ambitions for achieving herd immunity quickly. Monitoring the pandemic's effect on the health commodities' supply system and designing a short-term and long-term resilient health supply chain system that can cope with current and future health catastrophes is pivotal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelalem Tilahun Mekonen
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Teferi Gedif Fenta
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Denny J Cho
- Logistics Department, Kyrgyz State Technical University, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
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Sayed AA, El-Gendy AA, Aljohani AK, Haddad RA, Taher OH, Senan AM, Qashqari AM, Alqelaiti BA. The Effects of COVID-19 on the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents: A Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e56473. [PMID: 38638779 PMCID: PMC11025694 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has profoundly affected global health and well-being. As part of the Coronaviridae family, SARS-CoV-2 joins a diverse group of viruses found in both humans and various animal species, including bats, camels, and cats. The pandemic has led to widespread social isolation, reduced physical activity, and significant lifestyle changes, posing potential risks to individuals' mental and emotional health. This review aims to explore the implications of COVID-19 on the mental health of children and adolescents, given the limited attention this population has received in the medical literature. Multiple research studies in several countries have found that the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with greater stress levels, depression, anxiety, insomnia, drug misuse, and other mental health challenges among young individuals. Understanding the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems to promote resilience and well-being in children and adolescents. Even after the pandemic ends, it is crucial to prioritize understanding the long-term impacts of the pandemic on mental health, integrating findings into public health strategies, addressing mental healthcare disparities, and fostering resilience in children and adolescents. Achieving these objectives requires collaborative efforts across various sectors to ensure equitable access to mental health resources and the implementation of sustainable solutions for the well-being of young people in the aftermath of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar A Sayed
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, GBR
- College of Medicine, Taibah University, Medina, SAU
| | | | | | | | - Odai H Taher
- College of Medicine, Taibah University, Medina, SAU
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Zendedel E, Tayebi L, Nikbakht M, Hasanzadeh E, Asadpour S. Clinical Trials of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of COVID 19. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:1055-1071. [PMID: 37815188 DOI: 10.2174/011574888x260032230925052240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are being investigated as a treatment for a novel viral disease owing to their immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, tissue repair and regeneration characteristics, however, the exact processes are unknown. MSC therapy was found to be effective in lowering immune system overactivation and increasing endogenous healing after SARS-CoV-2 infection by improving the pulmonary microenvironment. Many studies on mesenchymal stem cells have been undertaken concurrently, and we may help speed up the effectiveness of these studies by collecting and statistically analyzing data from them. Based on clinical trial information found on clinicaltrials. gov and on 16 November 2020, which includes 63 clinical trials in the field of patient treatment with COVID-19 using MSCs, according to the trend of increasing studies in this field, and with the help of meta-analysis studies, it is possible to hope that the promise of MSCs will one day be realized. The potential therapeutic applications of MSCs for COVID-19 are investigated in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Zendedel
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Lobat Tayebi
- Marquett University School of Dentistry, Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Mohammad Nikbakht
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Elham Hasanzadeh
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shiva Asadpour
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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Banerjee I, Sullere V, Jain M, Biswas K. Diagnostic Performance Between Chest CT Severity Score and Initial Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) Cycle Values in COVID-19 Patients and Their Relation With the Clinical Status of Patients. Cureus 2023; 15:e47733. [PMID: 38022195 PMCID: PMC10676207 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is used as a standard test for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA from nasopharyngeal aspirates. However, this method lacks sensitivity and cannot assess disease severity. A CT scan of the thorax provides a CT severity score (CT-SS), which depicts lung involvement and disease severity. This study aims to investigate the diagnostic value of chest CT compared with RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values in COVID-19 and relate it clinically with the disease severity of patients. METHODS This retrospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary center from April 2021 to March 2022. We included 511 patients who had tested RT-PCR positive for COVID-19, were hospitalized, and had undergone high-resolution CT (HRCT) thorax. Data was collected from patient records regarding name, age, sex, admission data, baseline investigations including Ct value, management, and outcome. HRCT was reviewed to assess lung involvement and calculate CT-SS. Data was analyzed using SPSS Statistics version 25 (IBM Corp. Released 2017. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.). RESULT The mean age of patients was 50.4 ± 13.7 years, and the majority (67.5%) were male. Gender-wise, there was no difference in RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values; however, CT-SS was significantly higher in males (17.5 ± 4.8 vs.10.5 ± 6.6, t=-13.6, p<0.0001). ICU admission was needed for 34.8% of patients, and they had a significantly lower Ct value (21.7 ± 3.3 vs. 22.8 ± 3.7, t=21.10, p<0.0001) and higher CT-SS (16.3 ± 4.5 vs. 6.7 ± 5.1, t=-3.32, p=0.001). CONCLUSION Ct values could not differentiate between moderate and severe patients. CT-SS was not related to the viral load at admission. Patients who succumbed had significantly lower Ct values and higher CT-SS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Manish Jain
- General Medicine, Bombay Hospital, Indore, IND
| | - Koushik Biswas
- Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli, IND
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Rao V, Banerjee U, Sambaturu N, Chunchanur S, Ambica R, Chandra N. Pressured cytotoxic T cell epitope strength among SARS-CoV-2 variants correlates with COVID-19 severity. HLA 2023; 102:464-476. [PMID: 37134008 DOI: 10.1111/tan.15071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Heterogeneity in susceptibility among individuals to COVID-19 has been evident through the pandemic worldwide. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses generated against pathogens in certain individuals are known to impose selection pressure on the pathogen, thus driving emergence of new variants. In this study, we probe the role played by host genetic heterogeneity in terms of HLA-genotypes in determining differential COVID-19 severity in patients. We use bioinformatic tools for CTL epitope prediction to identify epitopes under immune pressure. Using HLA-genotype data of COVID-19 patients from a local cohort, we observe that the recognition of pressured epitopes from the parent strain Wuhan-Hu-1 correlates with COVID-19 severity. We also identify and rank list HLA-alleles and epitopes that offer protectivity against severe disease in infected individuals. Finally, we shortlist a set of 6 pressured and protective epitopes that represent regions in the viral proteome that are under high immune pressure across SARS-CoV-2 variants. Identification of such epitopes, defined by the distribution of HLA-genotypes among members of a population, could potentially aid in prediction of indigenous variants of SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India
| | - Ushashi Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India
| | - Narmada Sambaturu
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA
| | - Sneha Chunchanur
- Department of Microbiology, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI), Bangalore, India
| | - R Ambica
- Department of Microbiology, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI), Bangalore, India
| | - Nagasuma Chandra
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India
- Center for BioSystems Science and Engineering (BSSE), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India
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Chala B, Tilaye T, Waktole G. Re-Emerging COVID-19: Controversy of Its Zoonotic Origin, Risks of Severity of Reinfection and Management. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:4307-4319. [PMID: 37753439 PMCID: PMC10518360 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s419789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The re-emergence of COVID-19 has sparked controversy around its zoonotic origin, management strategies, risks posed by the virus, and the severity of reinfection. While it is widely accepted that the virus originated from animals, the exact source and transmission pathway remain unclear. This has led to debates regarding the regulation of wildlife markets and trade, as well as the need for more robust surveillance and monitoring systems. Hence, the objective of this review is to provide a brief overview of the disease's biology, preventative strategies, risk factors, degree of reinfection, and epidemiological profile. It offers a thorough examination of the disease's root cause, potential zoonotic transmission, and the most recent preventive measures, like vaccines. In terms of management, there is ongoing debate about the most effective strategies to mitigate the spread of the virus. While public health measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing have been widely implemented, there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of lockdowns and restrictions on public movement. The risks posed by COVID-19 are also a topic of debate, with some arguing that the virus is relatively low-risk for the majority of the population while others highlight the potential for severe illness, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions. Finally, the possibility of reinfection has raised concerns about the longevity of immunity following infection or vaccination. While some studies have suggested that reinfection may be possible and potentially more severe, the overall risk remains uncertain and further research is needed to fully understand the implications of reinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayissa Chala
- Department of Applied Biology, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Tigist Tilaye
- Olanchiti Hospital, Oromia Health Bureau, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
| | - Gemechis Waktole
- Department of Applied Biology, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Natural and Computational Science, Dambi Dollo University, Dambi Dollo, Ethiopia
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Abdul Muthalib H, Hamad A, Abbasi S, Syed F, Alamer HS, Albanyan E, Aljumaah S, AlGhamdi S. COVID-19 Infection Among Healthcare Workers at a Tertiary Healthcare Hospital. Cureus 2023; 15:e43412. [PMID: 37706119 PMCID: PMC10496861 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 virus was the culprit of the global pandemic that began in 2019. With alarming mortality rates reaching sky-high worldwide, the virus prompted the masses to switch to online working. However, this was not feasible for healthcare workers (HCWs) exposed to a higher-than-normal risk of acquiring COVID-19 infection. This study aims to observe the prevalence of COVID-19 positivity among the various areas of a healthcare facility in Saudi Arabia. METHODS A cross-sectional study of positive employees among all departments at a tertiary care hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, such as administration, capital projects/facilities, and healthcare. The study included all hospital employees-permanent staff, rotating physicians, and trainees-who tested positive for COVID-19 between March 20, 2020 and December 30, 2020. RESULTS It was found that HCWs had the most significant number of infected individuals with nursing staff being the predominant demographic. This was followed by the capital projects/facilities departments, of which the environmental services staff were the most infected. CONCLUSION It is pertinent that strict protocols be taken by hospital management to limit the spread of future infectious diseases within hospital settings. This includes the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adequate education on its proper usage, alongside regular surveillance of staff with regard to adherence and early detection of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alaa Hamad
- Medicine, Alfaisal University College of Medicine, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Safwan Abbasi
- General Medicine, Alfaisal University College of Medicine, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Faaezuddin Syed
- General Medicine, Alfaisal University College of Medicine, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Hanan S Alamer
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Esam Albanyan
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Suliman Aljumaah
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Salem AlGhamdi
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
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14
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Tsekoura M, Fousekis K, Billis E, Dionyssiotis Y, Tsepis E. Cross-cultural adaptation of the Greek version of post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale: assessment of non-hospitalised post-COVID-19 survivors. Eur J Transl Myol 2023. [PMID: 37345497 PMCID: PMC10388593 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2023.11328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to translate and validate into the Greek language and setting the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS) scale. Greeks aged ≥18 years who recovered form COVID-19 (≥ 14 days since diagnosis), were invited to participate. This cross-sectional study followed international guidelines regarding the translation process (forward and backward) and the evaluation of the PCFS. Reliability was assessed by test-retest analyses using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and 95%CI. For the validation, all participants completed the European Quality of Life-5 (EQ-5D-5L), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire. 82 adults (49 females, aged 40.2 ± 6.1) participated in the study. The Greek version of the PCFS demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability, with an ICC of 0.9 (95% CI 0.90- 0.95). The Cronbach's alpha value was 0.9, indicating good internal consistency. The PCFS score was strongly correlated with the EQ-5D-5L (r=0.6, p≤0.001) and weakly correlated with the HADS (r=0.41;p≤0.001). The Greek version of the PCFS was successfully adapted into Greek and is recommended to be used across clinical settings and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tsekoura
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras, Rio.
| | - Konstantinos Fousekis
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras, Rio.
| | - Evdokia Billis
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras, Rio.
| | - Yannis Dionyssiotis
- Medical School, University of Patras, Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Clinic, University General Hospital Patras, Rio Patras.
| | - Elias Tsepis
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras, Rio.
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15
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Banoei MM, Rafiepoor H, Zendehdel K, Seyyedsalehi MS, Nahvijou A, Allameh F, Amanpour S. Unraveling complex relationships between COVID-19 risk factors using machine learning based models for predicting mortality of hospitalized patients and identification of high-risk group: a large retrospective study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1170331. [PMID: 37215714 PMCID: PMC10192907 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1170331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background At the end of 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic increased the hospital burden of COVID-19 caused by the SARS-Cov-2 and became the most significant health challenge for nations worldwide. The severity and high mortality of COVID-19 have been correlated with various demographic characteristics and clinical manifestations. Prediction of mortality rate, identification of risk factors, and classification of patients played a crucial role in managing COVID-19 patients. Our purpose was to develop machine learning (ML)-based models for the prediction of mortality and severity among patients with COVID-19. Identifying the most important predictors and unraveling their relationships by classification of patients to the low-, moderate- and high-risk groups might guide prioritizing treatment decisions and a better understanding of interactions between factors. A detailed evaluation of patient data is believed to be important since COVID-19 resurgence is underway in many countries. Results The findings of this study revealed that the ML-based statistically inspired modification of the partial least square (SIMPLS) method could predict the in-hospital mortality among COVID-19 patients. The prediction model was developed using 19 predictors including clinical variables, comorbidities, and blood markers with moderate predictability (Q2 = 0.24) to separate survivors and non-survivors. Oxygen saturation level, loss of consciousness, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were the top mortality predictors. Correlation analysis showed different correlation patterns among predictors for each non-survivor and survivor cohort separately. The main prediction model was verified using other ML-based analyses with a high area under the curve (AUC) (0.81-0.93) and specificity (0.94-0.99). The obtained data revealed that the mortality prediction model can be different for males and females with diverse predictors. Patients were classified into four clusters of mortality risk and identified the patients at the highest risk of mortality, which accentuated the most significant predictors correlating with mortality. Conclusion An ML model for predicting mortality among hospitalized COVID-19 patients was developed considering the interactions between factors that may reduce the complexity of clinical decision-making processes. The most predictive factors related to patient mortality were identified by assessing and classifying patients into different groups based on their sex and mortality risk (low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Haniyeh Rafiepoor
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Zendehdel
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Monireh Sadat Seyyedsalehi
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Azin Nahvijou
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshad Allameh
- Gastroenterology Ward, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex (IKHC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Amanpour
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Rutkowski S, Rutkowska A, Kirejczyk L, Radosz B, Bogacz K, Szczegielniak J. Implementation of a rehabilitation program in a virtual reality for post-Covid-19 patients - preliminary results. SLOVAK JOURNAL OF SPORT SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.24040/sjss.2022.8.2.77-89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to present the preliminary results of a novel rehabilitation program for post-COVID-19 patients that incorporates virtual reality (VR). The study included 20 patients who had previously been affected by SARS-CoV-2 and participated in inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation. These patients were randomly divided into either a VR group or a control group. The both the VR group and the control group participated in the same rehabilitation program, which consisted of exercise capacity training on a cycle ergometer, breathing exercises, resistance and general fitness training, and relaxation. Each training component was performed once a day. The groups that participated differed based on the training settings they received on the cycle ergometer and relaxation training. The study assessed exercise tolerance (6MWT), lung function (FEV1, FVC, TLC, FEV1%VC), stress levels (PSS-10), quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF), likewise anxiety and depression symptoms (HADS). The results showed that the VR group had a statistically significant improvement in all of the functional capacity tests compared to the control group. The VR group also had a statistically significant improvement in quality of life compared to the control group. These results suggest that the inclusion of VR in rehabilitation programs may be beneficial for post-COVID-19 patients.
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17
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Nisar S, Zuhaib MA, Ulasyar A, Tariq M. A robust tracking system for COVID-19 like pandemic using advanced hybrid technologies. COMPUTING 2023; 105:871-885. [PMCID: PMC8160079 DOI: 10.1007/s00607-021-00946-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In order to track patients in coronavirus (COVID-19) like pandemic, this paper proposes a novel model based on hybrid advance technologies, which is capable to trace and track COVID-19 affectees with high accuracy. The hybrid technologies include, cellular, cyber and low range wireless technologies. This technique is capable to trace patients through call data record using cellular technology, voice over Internet protocol calls using cyber technology and physical contact without having a call history using low range wireless technologies. The proposed model is also capable to trace COVID-19 suspects. In addition to tracking, the proposed model is capable to provide surveillance capability as well by geo tagging the patients. In case of any violation by the patients an alert is sent to the concerned department. The proposed model is cost effective and privacy preserved as the entire process is carried out under the umbrella of a concerned government department. The potential outcomes of the proposed model are tracking of COVID-19 patients, monitoring of isolated patients, tracking of suspected ones and inform the mass about the safest path to use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibli Nisar
- National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000 Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ali Zuhaib
- National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000 Pakistan
| | - Abasin Ulasyar
- National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000 Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Tariq
- National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Abstract
Arctic permafrost is thawing due to global warming, with unknown consequences on the microbial inhabitants or associated viruses. DNA viruses have previously been shown to be abundant and active in thawing permafrost, but little is known about RNA viruses in these systems. To address this knowledge gap, we assessed the composition of RNA viruses in thawed permafrost samples that were incubated for 97 days at 4°C to simulate thaw conditions. A diverse RNA viral community was assembled from metatranscriptome data including double-stranded RNA viruses, dominated by Reoviridae and Hypoviridae, and negative and positive single-stranded RNA viruses, with relatively high representations of Rhabdoviridae and Leviviridae, respectively. Sequences corresponding to potential plant and human pathogens were also detected. The detected RNA viruses primarily targeted dominant eukaryotic taxa in the samples (e.g., fungi, Metazoa and Viridiplantae) and the viral community structures were significantly associated with predicted host populations. These results indicate that RNA viruses are linked to eukaryotic host dynamics. Several of the RNA viral sequences contained auxiliary metabolic genes encoding proteins involved in carbon utilization (e.g., polygalacturosase), implying their potential roles in carbon cycling in thawed permafrost. IMPORTANCE Permafrost is thawing at a rapid pace in the Arctic with largely unknown consequences on ecological processes that are fundamental to Arctic ecosystems. This is the first study to determine the composition of RNA viruses in thawed permafrost. Other recent studies have characterized DNA viruses in thawing permafrost, but the majority of DNA viruses are bacteriophages that target bacterial hosts. By contrast RNA viruses primarily target eukaryotic hosts and thus represent potential pathogenic threats to humans, animals, and plants. Here, we find that RNA viruses in permafrost are novel and distinct from those in other habitats studied to date. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened awareness of the importance of potential environmental reservoirs of emerging RNA viral pathogens. We demonstrate that some potential pathogens were detected after an experimental thawing regime. These results are important for understanding critical viral-host interactions and provide a better understanding of the ecological roles that RNA viruses play as permafrost thaws.
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Alqathama AA, Ahmad R, Alsaedi RB, Alghamdi RA, Abkar EH, Alrehaly RH, Abdalla AN. The vital role of animal, marine, and microbial natural products against COVID-19. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:509-524. [PMID: 35234563 PMCID: PMC8896193 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2039215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Since the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, researchers have been working on finding ways to prevent viral entry and pathogenesis. Drug development from naturally-sourced pharmacological constituents may be a fruitful approach to COVID-19 therapy. OBJECTIVE Most of the published literature has focussed on medicinal plants, while less attention has been given to biodiverse sources such as animal, marine, and microbial products. This review focuses on highlighting natural products and their derivatives that have been evaluated for antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. METHODS We searched electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Springer Link to gather raw data from publications up to March 2021, using terms such as 'natural products', marine, micro-organism, and animal, COVID-19. We extracted a number of documented clinical trials of products that were tested in silico, in vitro, and in vivo which paid specific attention to chemical profiles and mechanisms of action. RESULTS Various classes of flavonoids, 2 polyphenols, peptides and tannins were found, which exhibit inhibitory properties against viral and host proteins, including 3CLpro, PLpro, S, hACE2, and NF-κB, many of which are in different phases of clinical trials. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The synergistic effects of logical combinations with different mechanisms of action emphasizes their value in COVID19 management, such as iota carrageenan nasal spray, ermectin oral drops, omega-3 supplementation, and a quadruple treatment of zinc, quercetin, bromelain, and vitamin C. Though in vivo efficacy of these compounds has yet to be established, these bioproducts are potentially useful in counteracting the effects of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aljawharah A. Alqathama
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rizwan Ahmad
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicines, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ruba B. Alsaedi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad A. Alghamdi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ekram H. Abkar
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rola H. Alrehaly
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf N. Abdalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Clinical and laboratory factors associated with mortality among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection in Lebanon: A multicenter study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278393. [PMID: 36454777 PMCID: PMC9714727 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the dire economic situation in Lebanon, many of the basic resources of the hospitals needed to help fight COVID-19 infections are not available. In this paper, we studied the possible factors associated with increased mortality in a sample of Lebanese adults enrolled in three hospitals. METHOD In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed data from 416 adults hospitalized in three institutions for a COVID-19 infection, from the opening of the COVID unit until their closure (period extending from March 2020 to June 2021). We used multivariate analyses to assess potential factors associated with COVID-19 mortality: gender, age, the presence of underlying medical conditions, and some medication taken during hospitalization. RESULTS Using variables related to baseline characteristics entered as independent variables, acute kidney injury (aOR = 4.057) and older age (aOR = 1.053) were associated with a higher probability of death. After adjusting baseline characteristics and factors related to admission entered as independent variables, enoxaparin intake (aOR = 0.435) was significantly associated with a lower probability of death, whereas old age (aOR = 1.049) and ventilation (aOR = 1.2) were significantly associated with higher odds of death. When all variables that showed significance in bivariate analysis were entered, old age (aOR = 1.243) and highest PaCO2 during hospitalization (aOR = 1.192) were significantly associated with higher mortality. With a weak effect, atrial fibrillation, COPD, and higher leucocyte counts on admission were significantly associated with higher odds of death. CONCLUSION These findings could help us prevent severe diseases in patients with several comorbidities and adjust therapeutic care to improve future outcomes. More studies should compare the outcome of different COVID-19 strains as well as the impact of vaccination on those with multiple comorbidities, especially on the mortality rate culminating from disease complications.
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Dabagh-Gorjani F, Fatehchehr MA. COVID-19 and neurological complications: A review. HEALTHCARE IN LOW-RESOURCE SETTINGS 2022; 10. [DOI: 10.4081/hls.2022.10800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections with viruses have detrimental effects on neurological functions, and even cause severe neurological damage. There is mounting evidence that coronaviruses (CoV) as well as SARS-CoV-2 exhibit neurotropic abilities and might cause neurological problems. Neuroinvasive viruses are not fully understood, which makes it important to investigate their impact on the nervous system. In this paper, we review research into neurological complications associated with CoV.
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22
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Molecular Dynamics Simulations to Decipher the Role of Phosphorylation of SARS-CoV-2 Nonstructural Proteins (nsps) in Viral Replication. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112436. [PMID: 36366534 PMCID: PMC9693435 DOI: 10.3390/v14112436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation is a post-translational modification that enables various cellular activities and plays essential roles in protein interactions. Phosphorylation is an important process for the replication of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). To shed more light on the effects of phosphorylation, we used an ensemble of neural networks to predict potential kinases that might phosphorylate SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins (nsps) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the effects of phosphorylation on nsps structure, which could be a potential inhibitory target to attenuate viral replication. Eight target candidate sites were found as top-ranked phosphorylation sites of SARS-CoV-2. During the process of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, the root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) analysis was used to measure conformational changes in each nsps. Root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF) was employed to measure the fluctuation in each residue of 36 systems considered, allowing us to evaluate the most flexible regions. These analysis shows that there are significant structural deviations in the residues namely nsp1 THR 72, nsp2 THR 73, nsp3 SER 64, nsp4 SER 81, nsp4 SER 455, nsp5 SER284, nsp6 THR 238, and nsp16 SER 132. The identified list of residues suggests how phosphorylation affects SARS-CoV-2 nsps function and stability. This research also suggests that kinase inhibitors could be a possible component for evaluating drug binding studies, which are crucial in therapeutic discovery research.
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Lactic Acid Bacteria as Mucosal Immunity Enhancers and Antivirals through Oral Delivery. Appl Microbiol 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/applmicrobiol2040064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mucosal vaccination offer an advantage over systemic inoculation from the immunological viewpoint. The development of an efficient vaccine is now a priority for emerging diseases such as COVID-19, that was declared a pandemic in 2020 and caused millions of deaths globally. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) especially Lactobacillus are the vital microbiota of the gut, which is observed as having valuable effects on animals’ and human health. LAB produce lactic acid as the major by-product of carbohydrate degradation and play a significant role in innate immunity enhancement. LAB have significant characteristics to mimic pathogen infections and intrinsically possess adjuvant properties to enhance mucosal immunity. Increasing demand and deliberations are being substantially focused on probiotic organisms that can enhance mucosal immunity against viral diseases. LAB can also strengthen their host’s antiviral defense system by producing antiviral peptides, and releasing metabolites that prevent viral infections and adhesion to mucosal surfaces. From the perspectives of “one health” and the use of probiotics, conventional belief has opened up a new horizon on the use of LAB as antivirals. The major interest of this review is to depict the beneficial use of LAB as antivirals and mucosal immunity enhancers against viral diseases.
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Bhatta S, Sharma D, Sharma S, Maharjan L, Bhattachan S, Shah MK, Singhal A, Ghanpur AD, Ganesuni D, Saindani SJ. Smell and Taste Disturbance in COVID-19 Patients: A Prospective Multicenteric Review. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 74:2978-2984. [PMID: 34075334 PMCID: PMC8159719 DOI: 10.1007/s12070-021-02664-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To study the incidence of the smell and taste disturbance in the COVID-19 patients and a follow up at 4 months to observe for the duration of resolution of these symptoms. This is a multicentric prospective study carried out in 3 different countries, from April, 2020 to January, 2021. The COVID-19 positive patients, aged between 15 and 60 years, were inquired about the presence of any smell or taste related symptoms. The same patients were followed up with the telephonic interview after 2 months and then after 4 months, respectively. The duration of resolution of the smell and taste disturbance symptoms was noted. Total of 188 COVID-19 positive patients, average age 33.1 ± 1.7 years, 54.2% males and 45.8% female were included in the study. The smell disturbance was present in 60.6% (hyposmia 36.1%, anosmia 20.2%, and parosmia 4.2%) and taste disturbance in 28.7% of patients (hypogeusia 20.2%, ageusia 6.9%, and parageusia 1.6%). There was improvement of anosmia by 97.4, hyposmia by 95.6%, parosmia by 100%, ageusia by 100%, hypogeusia 94.8%, and parageusia by 66.7%, at 4 months follow up. The present study concludes that the smell and taste disturbances are one of the main early presenting features of the COVID-19 infection. The temporary effect of the COVID-19 infection on the olfactory and gustatory pathway was also highlighted with more than 95% patients improving at 4 months of follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dibya Sharma
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Male’, Maldives
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25
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Bhatta S, Sharma S, Sharma D, Maharjan L, Bhattachan S, Sah MK, Singhal A, Ghanpur AD, Ganesuni D. Study of Hearing Status in COVID-19 Patients: A Multicentered Review. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 74:3036-3042. [PMID: 34277385 PMCID: PMC8274964 DOI: 10.1007/s12070-021-02710-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the hearing status of COVID-19 patients and compare with control group. Prospective study carried out in 9 institutes. The pure tone audiogram and impedance audiometry of COVID-19 patients performed initially and at 3 months follow up. The control group consisted COVID-19 negative individuals with no history of ear related diseases. The average of air and bone conduction threshold (AC and BC) were compared between the COVID-19 patients and control group using independent t-test with a p value of less than 0.05 considered significant. Total of 331 patients, age 32 ± 4.3 years, 66.7% males and 33.3% females were included in the study. There were 80 individuals in the control group. Aural symptoms were, tinnitus in 1.8%, aural fullness in 1.4%, hearing loss in 3. 9%, and ear ache in 1.8% were present initially, resolved at 3 months follow up. The impedance audiometry demonstrated type B and type C curve in 5.1% and 1.15% ears, and out of these 64.7% and 40% improved at 3 months follow up respectively. No significant difference observed between the average AC and BC of the COVID-19 patients and control group. The COVID-19 infection may present with aural symptoms; however, it was concluded that there was no significant difference in the hearing status of the COVID-19 positive patients in comparison to the control group. The presence of some changes in the normal functioning of the eustachian tube and middle ear in the COVID-19 infection was also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dibya Sharma
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Male’, Maldives
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26
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Zhang WJ, Zou FL, Hu DX, Luo HL, Wu LD, Hu JL. SARS-CoV-2: Operating room management strategies and recommendations. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:933799. [PMID: 36117977 PMCID: PMC9478436 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.933799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 in Wuhan, China in 2019, it has rapidly spread to the world, and the number of infections has gradually increased. The hospitalization rate of patients has also gradually increased, which poses a huge challenge to hospitals and medical staff for patients with SARS-CoV-2 requiring surgical treatment. Therefore, avoiding cross-infection in the operating room is an important protective work. The operating room is an important department of the hospital, scientific and reasonable management is particularly important. Therefore, we have put forward corresponding suggestions and strategies for preoperative preparation and evaluation of patients, intraoperative management, postoperative terminal management, and protection of medical staff, and hope that these measures can better prevent and control the infection of SARS-CoV-2 in the operating room.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-jun Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fei-long Zou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dong-xia Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hong-liang Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Li-dong Wu
- Emergency Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jia-ling Hu
- Emergency Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- *Correspondence: Jia-ling Hu,
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Bhat K A, Madi D, Bhat S, Mary T, Shenoy Mulki S, Kotian H. Profile of Secondary Bacterial and Fungal Infections in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:5705-5714. [PMID: 36196428 PMCID: PMC9527002 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s378221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Archana Bhat K
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Deepak Madi
- Department of Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Sevitha Bhat
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
- Correspondence: Sevitha Bhat, Department of Microbiology Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, Tel +91 9449831631, Email
| | - Therese Mary
- Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Shalini Shenoy Mulki
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Himani Kotian
- Department of Community Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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Bester JC. A Clinician's Obligation to be Vaccinated: Four Arguments that Establish a Duty for Healthcare Professionals to be Vaccinated Against COVID-19. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2022; 19:451-465. [PMID: 35362931 PMCID: PMC8972764 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-022-10182-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper defends four lines of argument that establish an ethical obligation for clinicians to be vaccinated against COVID-19. They are:(1) The obligation to protect patients against COVID-19 spread;(2) The obligation to maintain professional competence and remain available for patients;(3) Clinicians' role and place in society in relation to COVID-19;(4) The obligation to encourage societal vaccination uptake.These arguments stand up well against potential objections and provide a compelling case to consider acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination a duty for all clinicians. This duty brings with it the implication that vaccine refusal amounts to a dereliction of the professional's ethical obligations, which means such clinicians should be subject to disciplinary action. Furthermore, this duty provides grounding for mandatory vaccination policies for clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Christiaan Bester
- Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, University of Nevada, Las Vegas 2040 W Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV, 89102, USA.
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Ji D, Guo M, Wu Y, Liu W, Luo S, Wang X, Kang H, Chen Y, Dai C, Kong D, Ma H, Liu Y, Wei D. Electrochemical Detection of a Few Copies of Unamplified SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acids by a Self-Actuated Molecular System. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:13526-13537. [PMID: 35858825 PMCID: PMC9344789 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c02884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The existing electrochemical biosensors lack controllable and intelligent merit to modulate the sensing process upon external stimulus, leading to challenges in analyzing a few copies of biomarkers in unamplified samples. Here, we present a self-actuated molecular-electrochemical system that consists of a tentacle and a trunk modification on a graphene microelectrode. The tentacle that contains a probe and an electrochemical label keeps an upright orientation, which increases recognition efficiency while decreasing the pseudosignal. Once the nucleic acids are recognized, the tentacles nearby along with the labels are spontaneously actuated downward, generating electrochemical responses under square wave voltammetry. Thus, it detects unamplified SARS-CoV-2 RNAs within 1 min down to 4 copies in 80 μL, 2-6 orders of magnitude lower than those of other electrochemical assays. Double-blind testing and 10-in-1 pooled testing of nasopharyngeal samples yield high overall agreement with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction results. We fabricate a portable prototype based on this system, showing great potential for future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daizong Ji
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Mingquan Guo
- Shanghai
Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Yungen Wu
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wentao Liu
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Shi Luo
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xuejun Wang
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hua Kang
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yiheng Chen
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Changhao Dai
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Derong Kong
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hongwenjie Ma
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yunqi Liu
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Institute
of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Dacheng Wei
- State
Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of
Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Laboratory
of Molecular Materials and Devices, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, China
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30
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Ghosh S, Dhobley A, Avula KK, Joseph S, Gavali N, Sinha S. Role of Saliva as a Non-Invasive Diagnostic Method for Detection of COVID-19. Cureus 2022; 14:e27471. [PMID: 36060364 PMCID: PMC9421123 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27471] [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: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS coronavirus2 is the primary cause of new Coronavirus illness (COVID-19) (SARS- COV-2). Today, COVID-19 is a global epidemic. Coronavirus illness may be diagnosed using a variety of approaches. The gold standard is RT-PCR, which is used in all of these assays. Swabs from the nose, pharynx, or mouth are the most often used sampling methods for coronavirus detection. For COVID-19 testing, saliva may be utilized as an alternate sample. When compared to a nasopharyngeal swab, saliva samples have a number of advantages and disadvantages. Saliva has also been reviewed as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for the detection of COVID-19. The affordability of the salivary diagnostic process makes it an effective process for detecting the COVID-19 viruses. The researchers have found that salivary diagnostic processes have greater chances of success than other processes of Coronavirus detection. However, healthcare professionals need to make positive changes to their working processes to ensure the sustainability of the salivary diagnosis processes.
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Temesgen Abebe H, Mitiku Ashebir M, Mohamedniguss Ebrahim M, Berhe Zelelow Y, Mulugeta Bezabih A, Redae Tefere G, Fseha Teklehaimanot B, Hintsa S, Leul Welderufael A. Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of COVID-19 Patients in Northern Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:3579-3588. [PMID: 35837540 PMCID: PMC9273636 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s345936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose COVID-19, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an emerging global public health problem. The disease is believed to affect older people and is accompanied by clinical features such as fever, shortness of breath, and coughing. Currently, there is a lack of information regarding the characteristics of COVID-19 patients in Ethiopia. Thus, this paper aims to evaluate the epidemiological and clinical features of COVID-19 patients in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. Patients and Methods A total of 6,637 symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 patients collected from six isolation and treatment centers in Tigray between May 7 and October 28, 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was used to compare the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients as appropriate. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The mean age of the patients was 31.3±12.8. SARS-CoV-2 infects men more than women with a ratio of 1.85:1. About 16% of the patients were symptomatic, of which 13.3% (95% CI=11.3–15.4%) were admitted to intensive care units and 6.1% (95% CI=4.5–7.6%) were non-survivors. The mortality rate was increased up to 40.3% (95% CI=32.1–48.4%) among patients with severe illness. A higher proportion of deaths were observed in men (73.2%) and 55.4% were in the age group of ≥50 years. About 4.3% (282 of 6,637) had one or more coexisting comorbidities; the most common being cardiovascular diseases (30.1%) and diabetes mellitus (23.8%). The comorbidity rate in the non-survivor group was significantly higher than in the survivor group (p-value <0.001). Conclusion The proportion of symptomatic patients was low. Non-survival was linked with old age and the existence of comorbidities. The findings of this study can help in the design of appropriate management strategies for COVID-19 patients, such as giving due emphasis to COVID-19 patients who are old and with comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haftom Temesgen Abebe
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia.,Laboratory Interdisciplinary Statistical Data Analysis, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Yibrah Berhe Zelelow
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | | | - Getachew Redae Tefere
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | | | - Solomon Hintsa
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Axum University, Axum, Ethiopia
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Sousa VI, Parente JF, Marques JF, Calçada C, Veiga MI, Osório NS, Tavares CJ. PMMA Microcapsules for the Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:22383-22393. [PMID: 35785261 PMCID: PMC9235045 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c01446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Surface disinfection currently plays a decisive role in the epidemiological situation caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. However, most disinfection products available on the market have a high evaporation rate and only an immediate action and not continuous, creating the need for a high frequency of disinfection. To overcome this limitation, in the present work, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microcapsules were developed with an active agent (hydrogen peroxide) encapsulated, which has the ability to inactivate/neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus. PMMA-H2O2 microcapsules have a spherical shape and a smooth structure with low porosity and were successfully attached to nonwoven fabrics, as observed from scanning electron microscopy. The thermogravimetric analysis shows that PMMA-H2O2 microcapsules have high thermal stability and can increase the stability of H2O2. Nonfabric substrates functionalized with PMMA-H2O2 microcapsules were tested by a highly sensitive and specific reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR)-based method to evaluate antiviral activity through the degradation of SARS-CoV-2 deoxyribonucleic acids. The highest percentage of viral nucleic acid elimination was obtained when exposing the viral sample for 1 h to PMMA-H2O2 microcapsules, resulting in an elimination of >97% of the coronavirus. In addition, the microcapsules are stable over a period of three weeks and retain the ability to eliminate SARS-CoV-2. Hence, it is demonstrated that this microcapsule system is efficient for SARS-CoV-2 elimination and inherent surface disinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vânia I. Sousa
- Centre
of Physics of the Universities of Minho and Porto (CF-UM-PT), University of Minho, Campus of Azurém, 4835-386 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Joana F. Parente
- Centre
of Physics of the Universities of Minho and Porto (CF-UM-PT), University of Minho, Campus of Azurém, 4835-386 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Juliana F. Marques
- Centre
of Physics of the Universities of Minho and Porto (CF-UM-PT), University of Minho, Campus of Azurém, 4835-386 Guimarães, Portugal
- Interhigiene
- Indústria De Produtos De Higiene Lda., Rua General Humberto Delgado, no 588 Serzedelo, 4765-546 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carla Calçada
- Life
and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s—PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Maria I. Veiga
- Life
and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s—PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno S. Osório
- Life
and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s—PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carlos J. Tavares
- Centre
of Physics of the Universities of Minho and Porto (CF-UM-PT), University of Minho, Campus of Azurém, 4835-386 Guimarães, Portugal
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33
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Moris JM, Koh Y. Aerobic Performance Detriments while Wearing a Face Mask Diverge Among Males and Females. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXERCISE SCIENCE 2022; 15:1105-1116. [PMID: 36159158 PMCID: PMC9458284 DOI: 10.70252/ijsl2294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2025]
Abstract
The current study examined the impact of wearing a face mask (FM) at rest and while exercising on cardiorespiratory variables and aerobic performance between males and females. Nine males (21.4 ± 0.5 yr) and 9 females (21.8 ± 3.6 yr) performed a pulmonary function test and a graded maximal exercise test (GXT) on a treadmill with an FM and without an FM in random order. During the GXT, cardiorespiratory variables were measured at different exercise intensities (rest, 40%, 55%, 70%, 80%, 100% of VO2max) and during recovery. Regardless of sex, both males and females significantly (p = .01) reduced their resting pulmonary functions, including forced vital capacity (18.7% and 19.6%, respectively), forced expiratory volume in one second (43.9% and 45.7%, respectively), and peak expiratory flow (85.2% and 87.5%, respectively) with an FM. During the GXT, both VO2 and ventilation (VE) in males were significantly (p < .01) lower with an FM only at 100% of VO2max, while females showed a significantly (p < .01) lower VO2, VE, and tidal volume (Vt) with an FM throughout the entire GXT. The partial pressure of exhaled CO2 was significantly (p = .02) higher at 100% of VO2max with an FM only in males. Although wearing an FM reduced resting pulmonary functions and the maximal aerobic performance for both males and females, there was a clear sex-specific response during the GXT, indicating that females were less capable to adapt to the pulmonary obstruction induced by wearing an FM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Moris
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Yunsuk Koh
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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Shankar P, Singh J, Joshi A, Malhotra AG, Shrivas A, Goel G, Gupta P, Yadav J, Saigal S, Singh S, Purwar S. Organ Involvement in COVID-19: A Molecular Investigation of Autopsied Patients. Microorganisms 2022; 10:1333. [PMID: 35889052 PMCID: PMC9318581 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Precise reasons for severe manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 remain unanswered, and efforts have been focused on respiratory system management. Demonstration of unequivocal presence of SARS-CoV-2 in vital body organs by cadaver autopsy was the only way to prove multi-organ involvement. Hence, the primary objective of the study was to determine presence of the SARS-CoV-2 in various organs of patients succumbing to SARS-CoV-2 infection. A total of 246 samples from different organs of 21 patients who died due to severe COVID-19 illness were investigated by qRT-PCR, and SARS-CoV-2 was detected in 181 (73.57%) samples and highest positivity of SARS-CoV-2 being (expectedly) found in nasopharynx (90.4%) followed by bilateral lungs (87.30%), peritoneal fluid (80%), pancreas (72.72%), bilateral kidneys (68.42%), liver (65%) and even in brain (47.2%). The deceased patients were categorized to three subgroups based upon the extent of organs in which SARS-CoV-2 was detected by qRT-PCR (high intensity ≥80%, intermediate intensity = 65-80% and low intensity ≤65% organs involvement). It was conclusively established that SARS-CoV-2 has the property of invasion beyond lungs and even crosses the blood-brain barrier, resulting in multi-system disease; this is probably the reason behind cytokine storm, though it is not clear whether organ damage is due to direct injury caused by the virus or result of inflammatory assault. Significant inverse correlation was found between the Ct value of lung samples and number of organs involved, implying that higher viral load in lungs is directly proportionate to involvement of extrapulmonary organs and patients with higher viral load in respiratory secretions should be monitored more closely for any warning signs and the treatment strategies should also address involvement of other organs for better outcome, because lungs, though the primary site of infection, are not the only organ system responsible for pathogenesis of systemic illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prem Shankar
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India; (P.S.); (A.G.M.); (A.S.); (P.G.); (S.S.)
| | - Jitendra Singh
- Department of Translational Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India;
| | - Ankur Joshi
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India;
| | - Anvita Gupta Malhotra
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India; (P.S.); (A.G.M.); (A.S.); (P.G.); (S.S.)
| | - Arti Shrivas
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India; (P.S.); (A.G.M.); (A.S.); (P.G.); (S.S.)
| | - Garima Goel
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India;
| | - Priyal Gupta
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India; (P.S.); (A.G.M.); (A.S.); (P.G.); (S.S.)
| | - Jayanthi Yadav
- Department of Forensic Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India;
| | - Saurabh Saigal
- Anaesthesia and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India;
| | - Sarman Singh
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India; (P.S.); (A.G.M.); (A.S.); (P.G.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal 462066, India
| | - Shashank Purwar
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal 462020, India; (P.S.); (A.G.M.); (A.S.); (P.G.); (S.S.)
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Susanto AD, Isbaniah F, Pratomo IP, Antariksa B, Samoedro E, Taufik M, Harinda F, Nurwidya F. Clinical characteristics and quality of life of persistent symptoms of COVID-19 syndrome in Indonesia. Germs 2022; 12:158-168. [PMID: 36504604 PMCID: PMC9719381 DOI: 10.18683/germs.2022.1319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) manifests in a broad clinical spectrum. COVID-19 survivors report various symptoms up to several months after being infected. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of persistent COVID-19 syndrome in Indonesia, the factors that influence the incidence, and the quality of life. Methods This was a cross-sectional study with an online questionnaire conducted in January 2021. Inclusion criteria were: adult Indonesian citizens who had recovered from COVID-19, and were confirmed negative by RT-PCR of nasal swabs or had undergone an isolation period for a minimum of 14 days. Data analysis was performed by the Chi-square test, followed by multivariate analysis with the backward likelihood ratio method. Results From a total of 385 respondents, 256 (66.5%) experienced persistent COVID-19 syndrome. The most prevalent symptoms were fatigue (29.4%), cough (15.5%), and muscle pain (11.2%). Of the five aspects of quality of life, the most commonly reported aspects were pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. The risk of persistent COVID-19 syndrome was significantly higher in subjects with older age, comorbidities, higher clinical severity, previous treatment in hospital, presence of pneumonia, and those who had required oxygen therapy. In the multivariate analysis, the most influential factor for the incidence of persistent COVID-19 syndrome was pneumonia (aOR 2.31, 95% CI 1.29-4.11, p<0.002). Conclusions The prevalence of the persistent COVID-19 syndrome in Indonesia was high, which affects the quality of life of COVID-19 survivors. Pneumonia was the main factor that influenced the incidence of persistent COVID-19 syndrome. Further research with a larger sample size and a longer study time is recommended to control COVID-19 and its impact on the health and quality of life of COVID-19 survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agus Dwi Susanto
- MD, PhD, FAPSR, Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Persahabatan National Respiratory Referral Hospital, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Indonesia and Indonesian Society of Respirology, Jakarta, Indonesia,Corresponding author: Agus Dwi Susanto, and
| | - Fathiyah Isbaniah
- MD, PhD, Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Persahabatan National Respiratory Referral Hospital, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Indonesia, and Indonesian Society of Respirology, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Irandi Putra Pratomo
- MD, PhD, Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Persahabatan National Respiratory Referral Hospital, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Indonesia and Indonesian Society of Respirology, Jakarta, Indonesia and COVID-19 Task Force – Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine Unit, Universitas Indonesia Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Budhi Antariksa
- MD, PhD, Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Persahabatan National Respiratory Referral Hospital, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Indonesia and Indonesian Society of Respirology, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Erlang Samoedro
- MD, Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Persahabatan National Respiratory Referral Hospital, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Indonesia and Indonesian Society of Respirology, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Taufik
- MD, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Fadlika Harinda
- MD, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Fariz Nurwidya
- MD, PhD, Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Persahabatan National Respiratory Referral Hospital, Jalan Persahabatan Raya no.1, Rawamangun Jakarta 13230, Indonesia and Indonesian Society of Respirology, Jakarta, Indonesia
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36
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Exploring the Relationship between the Entrepreneurship Motive and Value Creation in Business Incubators. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14137758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to explore whether, regardless of the reasons why entrepreneurs start their activity, either due to necessity or vocation, they positively value the capacity of business incubators as a mechanism to help create value, contributing to the economic and social sustainability and establishing a context that increases the chances of the success and survival of businesses. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to a representative sample of entrepreneurs residing in Spain. Structural equation analysis (SEM) was applied. The results confirm that business incubators create value in society regardless of the reasons why entrepreneurs start their activity. This work provides an opinion and a direct vision of how different entrepreneur profiles value the contribution of business incubators to the sustainability of businesses in their first stage.
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Hans M, Hans VM, Kahlon N, Sagar M, Pandey AK, Das A. Gustatory dysfunction and oral ulceration in COVID-19 patients: A cross sectional study. Dent Res J (Isfahan) 2022; 19:43. [PMID: 35915715 PMCID: PMC9338349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the past year, patients infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 presented with severe gustatory dysfunction, the prevalence of which varies among different populations. Furthermore, there have been sporadic reports of oral ulceration observed in coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients due to varied reasons. The aim of this study was to investigate and characterize the presence of gustatory disorders, oral ulceration, and other oral changes in patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional observational study, a total of 402 participants who were detected COVID-19 positive by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were included. Their demographic and clinical data were recorded through hospital records. The participants were interviewed either in person or on the telephone to record any change in taste and/or changes within the oral cavity. t-test for independent means was used to compare mean age, while other characteristics were compared by Chi-square test and Z-score test. P < 0.05 was taken as significant. Results Out of the total sample of 402 individuals, 262 were male and 140 were female. The prevalence of gustatory dysfunction and oral ulceration was 43.53% and 15.67%, respectively, in the studied sample. Significantly more females had gustatory dysfunction than males and older subjects more commonly than younger. The symptom of loss/change of taste and oral ulceration were more probable to occur together. In addition, the tongue was the most common site for ulceration in our studied sample. Conclusion Loss of taste is a common symptom of COVID-19 patients, whereas oral ulceration is not so commonly reported. However, the presence of both these symptoms could impair the quality of life of patients and hamper adequate nutritional uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayank Hans
- Department of Dentistry, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Veenu Madaan Hans
- Department of Dentistry, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India,Address for correspondence: Dr. Veenu Madaan Hans, Department of Dentistry, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, NIT-3, Faridabad, Haryana, India. E-mail:
| | - Namrata Kahlon
- Department of Physiology, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Mayank Sagar
- Department of Dentistry, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Anil Kumar Pandey
- Department of Physiology, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Asim Das
- Department of Physiology, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana, India
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Bahmani M, Chegini R, Ghanbari E, Sheykhsaran E, Shiri Aghbash P, Leylabadlo HE, Moradian E, Kazemzadeh Houjaghan AM, Bannazadeh Baghi H. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection: Role of interleukin-6 and the inflammatory cascade. World J Virol 2022; 11:113-128. [PMID: 35665236 PMCID: PMC9150027 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v11.i3.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Since December 2019, a novel coronavirus that represents a serious threat to human lives has emerged. There is still no definite treatment for severe cases of the disease caused by this virus, named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). One of the most considered treatment strategies targets the exaggerated immune regulator, and interleukin (IL)-6 is a crucial pro-inflammatory mediator. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cases show an elevated level of IL-6 related to disease severity. IL-6 activity can be inhibited by the following: IL-6 itself, IL-6 signaling pathways such as Janus kinase and signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT), gp130, IL-6R, and downstream activated ILs, such as IL-17 and IL-6 cytokine. Currently, according to these studies and their results, IL-6 blockade with anti-IL-6 or its receptor antibodies such as tocilizumab in COVID-19 is beneficial in severe cases and may reduce the mortality rate. JAK-STAT inhibitors block the cytokine storm by inhibiting several crucial pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6 and have shown various results in clinical trials. IL-6 induces IL-17 secretion, and IL-17 is involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory processes. Clinical trials of anti-IL-17 drugs are currently recruiting, and anti-gp130 antibody is preclinical. However, this agent has shown positive effects in inflammatory bowel disease clinical trials and could be tested for SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to review the role of IL-6 in the cytokine storm and studies regarding IL-6 and blockade of its inflammatory pathways in COVID-19 to determine if any of these agents are beneficial for COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohaddeseh Bahmani
- Department of Virology, Student Research Committee, Tabriz Univer-sity of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 15731, Iran
| | - Rojin Chegini
- Department of Medical Science, Metabolic Liver Disease Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81745-33871, Iran
| | - Elham Ghanbari
- Department of Medical Science, Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 67159-59167, Iran
| | - Elham Sheykhsaran
- Department of Microbiology, Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 15731, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 15731, Iran
| | - Parisa Shiri Aghbash
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 15731, Iran
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 15731, Iran
| | | | - Ehsan Moradian
- Department of Medical Science, Medical Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Bannazadeh Baghi
- Department of Virology, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 15731, Iran
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Jamiruddin MR, Meghla BA, Islam DZ, Tisha TA, Khandker SS, Khondoker MU, Haq MA, Adnan N, Haque M. Microfluidics Technology in SARS-CoV-2 Diagnosis and Beyond: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:649. [PMID: 35629317 PMCID: PMC9146058 DOI: 10.3390/life12050649] [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: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
With the progression of the COVID-19 pandemic, new technologies are being implemented for more rapid, scalable, and sensitive diagnostics. The implementation of microfluidic techniques and their amalgamation with different detection techniques has led to innovative diagnostics kits to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, antigens, and nucleic acids. In this review, we explore the different microfluidic-based diagnostics kits and how their amalgamation with the various detection techniques has spearheaded their availability throughout the world. Three other online databases, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, were referred for articles. One thousand one hundred sixty-four articles were determined with the search algorithm of microfluidics followed by diagnostics and SARS-CoV-2. We found that most of the materials used to produce microfluidics devices were the polymer materials such as PDMS, PMMA, and others. Centrifugal force is the most commonly used fluid manipulation technique, followed by electrochemical pumping, capillary action, and isotachophoresis. The implementation of the detection technique varied. In the case of antibody detection, spectrometer-based detection was most common, followed by fluorescence-based as well as colorimetry-based. In contrast, antigen detection implemented electrochemical-based detection followed by fluorescence-based detection, and spectrometer-based detection were most common. Finally, nucleic acid detection exclusively implements fluorescence-based detection with a few colorimetry-based detections. It has been further observed that the sensitivity and specificity of most devices varied with implementing the detection-based technique alongside the fluid manipulation technique. Most microfluidics devices are simple and incorporate the detection-based system within the device. This simplifies the deployment of such devices in a wide range of environments. They can play a significant role in increasing the rate of infection detection and facilitating better health services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bushra Ayat Meghla
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (B.A.M.); (D.Z.I.); (T.A.T.)
| | - Dewan Zubaer Islam
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (B.A.M.); (D.Z.I.); (T.A.T.)
| | - Taslima Akter Tisha
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (B.A.M.); (D.Z.I.); (T.A.T.)
| | - Shahad Saif Khandker
- Gonoshasthaya-RNA Molecular Diagnostic & Research Center, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh; (S.S.K.); (M.A.H.)
| | - Mohib Ullah Khondoker
- Department of Community Medicine, Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College, Savar, Dhaka 1344, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Ahsanul Haq
- Gonoshasthaya-RNA Molecular Diagnostic & Research Center, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh; (S.S.K.); (M.A.H.)
| | - Nihad Adnan
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (B.A.M.); (D.Z.I.); (T.A.T.)
| | - Mainul Haque
- The Unit of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kem Perdana Sugai Besi, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
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Tabesh E, Soheilipour M, Sami R, Mansourian M, Tabesh F, Soltaninejad F, Dehghan M, Nikgoftar N, Gharavinia A, Ghasemi K, Adibi P. Gastrointestinal manifestations in patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19): Impact on clinical outcomes. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF ISFAHAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2022; 27:32. [PMID: 35548178 PMCID: PMC9081509 DOI: 10.4103/jrms.jrms_641_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background In this study, we summarized the data on gastrointestinal (GI) involvement and the potential association with clinical outcomes among the patients admitted to Khorshid Hospital. Materials and Methods We investigated 1113 inpatients (≥18 years old) diagnosed with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) from March to June 2020 in Khorshid Hospital. We collected demographic details, clinical information, vital signs, laboratory data, treatment type, and clinical outcomes from patients' medical records. The data of patients with GI symptoms were compared with those without GI symptoms. Results A total of 1113 patients were recruited (male = 648). GI symptoms were observed in 612 (56.8%) patients (male = 329), the most common of which were nausea 387 (34.7%), followed by diarrhea 286 (25.7%), vomiting 260 (23.4%), and abdominal pain 168 (15.0%). The most prominent non-GI symptoms were cough 796 (71.5%), fever 792 (71.2%), shortness of breath 653 (58.7%), and body pain 591 (53.1%). The number of patients who were discharged, died, and were admitted to intensive care unit was significantly different in groups on the basis of GI and non-GI symptoms (P = 0.002, 0.009, 0.003). Conclusion While COVID-19 was predominantly diagnosed in males, GI symptoms were more commonly reported by females. The results indicated that GI symptoms in COVID-19 patients are common, and the symptoms are not correlated with the severity of the disease. Moreover, the presence of GI symptoms was positively related to milder disease. Among COVID-19 positive patients, the clinical outcomes of the GI group were promising, compared to those of non-GI group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Tabesh
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Soheilipour
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ramin Sami
- Department of Pulmonology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marjan Mansourian
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Faezeh Tabesh
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Forogh Soltaninejad
- Bamdad Respiratory and Sleep Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehrnegar Dehghan
- General Physician, Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Azad University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Niloofar Nikgoftar
- General Physician, Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Azad University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Gharavinia
- General Physician, Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Azad University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Khojasteh Ghasemi
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Peyman Adibi
- Integrative Functional Gastroenterology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Nursyifa Fadiyah N, Megawati G, Erlangga Luftimas D. Potential of Omega 3 Supplementation for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Scoping Review. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:3915-3922. [PMID: 35431568 PMCID: PMC9012318 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s357460] [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: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 can cause fever, cough, headache, and shortness of breath but patients with comorbidities can experience worsening and death. An action is needed to treat this condition in COVID-19 patients. Omega 3 fatty acids may be one possibility associated with COVID-19 prevention, management, and treatment. Therefore, this review aimed to identify the existing studies on potency of omega 3 fatty acid supplementation on COVID-19. We searched studies from PubMed, Google Scholar, Springer Link, and Emerald Insight databases published on January 31, 2020, to September 1, 2021. The studies selected were the full-text, non-review ones which focused on the omega 3 fatty acid intervention in COVID-19 with COVID-19 patients and people affected by COVID-19 as their subjects and clinical manifestations or the results of supporting examinations as their outcomes. No quality assessment was performed in this review. Of the 211, there were 4 studies selected for this review. They showed that severe COVID-19 patients have low levels of omega 3 in their blood. Omega 3 was considered to reduce the risk of positive for SARS-CoV-infection and the duration of symptoms, overcome the renal and respiratory dysfunction, and increase survival rate in COVID-19 patients. Omega 3 fatty acid supplementations were thought to have a potential effect in preventing and treating COVID-19. This can be a reference for further research about omega 3 fatty acid supplementation and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ginna Megawati
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Dimas Erlangga Luftimas
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Nutrition Working Group (NWG), SKIP-NAKES Study Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
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Jabeen A, Ahmad N, Raza K. Global Gene Expression and Docking Profiling of COVID-19 Infection. Front Genet 2022; 13:870836. [PMID: 35480316 PMCID: PMC9035897 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.870836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus is an enclosed positive-sense RNA virus with club-like spikes protruding from its surface that causes acute respiratory infections in humans. Because it is considered a member of the complex pathogen group, it has been found to infect different host species and cause a variety of diseases. So far, it has been discovered that it may affect the immune, infection, and inflammatory systems, leading to the hypothesis that the immune and inflammatory systems (signaling pathways and components) fail to control infection, opening the door to look for potential targets primarily in these systems. The study's main purpose is to identify highly overexpressed genes and their functional implications as a result of COVID-19 infection, as well as to investigate probable infections, inflammation, and immune systems to better understand the impact of coronavirus infection. We explored the genes and pathways mostly linked with infection, inflammation, and the immune systems using the datasets available for COVID-19 infection gene expression compendium. NFKBIA, FN1, FAP, KANK4, COMP, FAM101B, COL1A2, ANKRD1, TAGLN, SPARC, ADAM19, OLFM4, CXCL10/11, OASL, FOS, APOBEC3A, IFI44L, IFI27, IFIT1, RSAD2, NDUFS1, SRSF6, HECTD1, CBX3, and DDX17 are among the genes that may be impacted by infection, according to our findings. The functional changes are mainly associated with these pathways TNF, cytokine, NF-kB, TLR, TCR, BCR, Foxo, and TGF signaling pathways are among them and there are additional pathways such as hippo signaling, apoptosis, estrogen signaling, regulating pluropotency of stem cells, ErbB, Wnt, p53, cAMP, MAPK, PI3K-AKT, oxidative phosphorylation, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, prolactin signaling, adipocytokine, neurotrophine signaling, and longevity regulating pathways. Moreover, we have also explored the potential herbal drug (apigenin, quercetin, and resveratrol) targets for the top-rated genes based on the overall analysis where we observe that quercetin and resveratrol as most effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almas Jabeen
- Department of Bioscience, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Nadeem Ahmad
- Department of Bioscience, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Khalid Raza
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
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Ibrahim W. Neurological manifestations in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients: a systematic review of literature. CNS Spectr 2022; 27:145-156. [PMID: 33081863 PMCID: PMC7737125 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852920001935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exact incidence of neurological complications from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection remains unknown. Neurological symptoms are more common with severe form of the disease. Through neuro-invasion, the virus can affect both neurons and glial cells and induce wide range of neurological pathologies. OBJECTIVES To systematically assess the neurological manifestations in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. METHODS A systematic literature search of the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases was performed. Randomized controlled trials, nonrandomized controlled trials, observational studies of neurological manifestations in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. RESULTS All three-database search identified 89 publications. A total of 22 full-text articles assessed for eligibility with 12 articles excluded. Altogether, the included studies reported 290 patients with neurological manifestations. Neurological manifestations were subdivided into central causes (CNS) and peripheral causes (PNS). CNS symptoms is commoner representing 91% of all neurological patients with 9% only with PNS. Headache represented the commonest neurological symptoms in regard to number of patients, meanwhile dizziness has the highest incidence with 11.9%. Neurological manifestations were divided according to COVID-19 severity into: (1) nonsevere and (2) severe; with all CNS manifestations were more in severe patients except headache were more in nonsevere patients. All included studies were on adult patients except one study in pediatric patients with limited number of participants. CONCLUSIONS From the descriptive analyses and available data of relatively small sample-sized studies, it can be concluded that in spite of the aforementioned limitations, that a wide spectrum of neurological manifestations including CNS and PNS can occur in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Ibrahim
- Department of Neurology, Kasr Alainy Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Rudrapal M, Gogoi N, Chetia D, Khan J, Banwas S, Alshehri B, Alaidarous MA, Laddha UD, Khairnar SJ, Walode SG. Repurposing of phytomedicine-derived bioactive compounds with promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential: Molecular docking, MD simulation and drug-likeness/ADMET studies. Saudi J Biol Sci 2022; 29:2432-2446. [PMID: 34924801 PMCID: PMC8667520 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In view of the potential of traditional plant-based remedies (or phytomedicines) in the management of COVID-19, the present investigation was aimed at finding novel anti-SARS-CoV-2 molecules by in silico screening of bioactive phytochemicals (database) using computational methods and drug repurposing approach. A total of 160 compounds belonging to various phytochemical classes (flavonoids, limonoids, saponins, triterpenoids, steroids etc.) were selected (as initial hits) and screened against three specific therapeutic targets (Mpro/3CLpro, PLpro and RdRp) of SARS-CoV-2 by docking, molecular dynamics simulation and drug-likeness/ADMET studies. From our studies, six phytochemicals were identified as notable ant-SARS-CoV-2 agents (best hit molecules) with promising inhibitory effects effective against protease (Mpro and PLpro) and polymerase (RdRp) enzymes. These compounds are namely, ginsenoside Rg2, saikosaponin A, somniferine, betulinic acid, soyasapogenol C and azadirachtin A. On the basis of binding modes and dynamics studies of protein-ligand intercations, ginsenoside Rg2, saikosaponin A, somniferine were found to be the most potent (in silico) inhibitors potentially active against Mpro, PLpro and RdRp, respectively. The present investigation can be directed towards further experimental studies in order to confirm the anti-SARS-CoV-2 efficacy along with toxicities of identified phytomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mithun Rudrapal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Rasiklal M. Dhariwal Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Chinchwad, Pune 411019, Maharashtra, India
| | - Neelutpal Gogoi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, Assam, India
| | - Dipak Chetia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, Assam, India
| | - Johra Khan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
- Health and Basic Sciences Research Center, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed Banwas
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
- Health and Basic Sciences Research Center, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Bader Alshehri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
- Health and Basic Sciences Research Center, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A. Alaidarous
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
- Health and Basic Sciences Research Center, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Umesh D. Laddha
- MET Institute of Pharmacy, Bhujbal Knowledge City, Adgaon, Nasik 422003, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shubham J. Khairnar
- MET Institute of Pharmacy, Bhujbal Knowledge City, Adgaon, Nasik 422003, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sanjay G. Walode
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Rasiklal M. Dhariwal Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Chinchwad, Pune 411019, Maharashtra, India
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Karaaslan T, Avarisli A, Durdu B, Daskaya H. A case of meralgia paresthetica caused by prone positioning in a COVID-19 patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome. EMERGENCY CARE JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.4081/ecj.2022.10310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 critically ill patients usually require prone positioning for the treatment of respiratory failure caused by Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Prone position provides a better ventilation-perfusion compatibility, resulting in a significant improvement in oxygenation and a decrease in mortality, but prolonged prone positioning may cause Meralgia Paresthetica (MP), one of the most common mononeuropathies of the lower limb. The early diagnosis of MP is crucial to avoid a permanent damage with pain and disability, and to start immediately the correct treatment. In this article, we report a rare case of MP in a critically ill COVID-19 patient with ARDS, with the main aim to create awareness for MP among the medical team working.
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Anghelescu A, Saglam AO, Stoica SI, Onose G. Rehabilitation of severe neurological complications post SARS-CoV-2 infection. BALNEO AND PRM RESEARCH JOURNAL 2022:491. [DOI: 10.12680/balneo.2022.491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2025] Open
Abstract
Medical rehabilitation is a multi-professional / interdisciplinary process aimed at enhancing and restoring functional ability (activity and participation) and quality of life to people with im-pairments or disabilities. Rehabilitation is applied throughout the continuum of care. COVID-19 patients may develop a myriad of acute medical problems (linked to the virus per se, or as con-sequences of the invasive procedures), which can cause acute, post-acute and long-term conse-quences requiring rehabilitation. Information about short and long-term sequelae of COVID-19 indicate an increasing need for rehabilitation. The paper is focused on two main aspects: rehabil-itation of the severe neurological disabilities that occurred during the acute phase and continu-ing in the chronic phase (i.e., different neurological sensory-motor and cognitive deficits sec-ondary to stroke, encephalitis, seizures, encephalopathies). The other main issue is generated by the disruption of regular rehabilitation in people with neurological disabilities and chronic dis-eases (people living with sequels after stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis) due to quarantine, social isolation, movement restriction, and other healthcare systems ’disruptions. Methods Internet literature search (Lit Covid and PubMed) using the following keywords (Covid-19, Coronavirus, neurological complications, rehabilitation). During 2020-2021 were published 88 papers (in 2020 = 54, and in 2021= 54), with 21 reviewes (2020 = 15; 2021 = 8), and 2 systematic reviews, refearing neuroreabilitation in Covid-19 subacutre and long-term cas-es. Discussion REH-COVER Cochrane Rehabilitation WHO initiative (“Rapid Living Systematic Reviews Second Edition, called 2020”), contains the main cornerstones for a tailored rehabilita-tion programme, the best (current) available rehabilitation evidence on recovery interventions, for the patients living with sequelae of COVID-19. Conclusions More than two years since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is obvious that rehabilitation services play a crucial role in post-COVID recovery trajectories. A further achievement of research and evidence focussed on the clinical management, comprehensive treatments, and efficacy need to be targeted on short and long-term (neuro)-rehabilitation service models of care, for COVID-19 survivors.
Keywords: Covid-19, rehabilitation, neurological disabilities, SARS-CoV-2
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelian Anghelescu
- 1 „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania 2 Teaching Emergency Hospital „Bagdasar Arseni” (THEBA) Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ali-Osman Saglam
- „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Isabelle Stoica
- 1 „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania 2 Teaching Emergency Hospital „Bagdasar Arseni” (THEBA) Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gelu Onose
- 1 „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania 2 Teaching Emergency Hospital „Bagdasar Arseni” (THEBA) Bucharest, Romania
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Glavinic R, Marcic L, Dumancic S, Pavicic Ivelja M, Jeličić I, Kalibovic Govorko D, Medvedec Mikić I. Acute Arterial Thrombosis of Lower Extremities in COVID-19 Patients. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061538. [PMID: 35329864 PMCID: PMC8949095 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical signs and symptoms of COVID-19 varied from asymptomatic forms to severe, life-threatening conditions that required treatment in intensive care units. These severe forms of illness are connected with a hypercoagulable state due to excessive inflammation, hypoxia, immobilisation, and altered angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2). In total, 17 COVID-19 positive patients were diagnosed with peripheral arterial thrombosis (AT), 13 of them had COVID-19 pneumonia. Laboratory findings in patients with X-ray confirmed pneumonia showed a four times higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and three times higher lactate dehydrogenase level (LDH) than patients without confirmed pneumonia. Patients with pneumonia had significantly more bilateral occlusions of the lower extremities and a significantly higher percentage with complete occlusion of the arteries than patients without pneumonia. The rate of limb loss was 35.3%. They were all from the group with COVID-19 pneumonia. Ten out of thirteen patients with pneumonia died due to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). All patients without pneumonia were discharged from the hospital. The aim of this retrospective study was to report the incidence of arterial thrombosis of lower extremities and their complications in the acute phase of the infection among COVID-19 patients admitted to the hospital for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Glavinic
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Split, Soltanska 1, 21000 Split, Croatia; (R.G.); (M.P.I.); (I.J.)
| | - Ljiljana Marcic
- Department of Radiology, Policlinic Medicol, Soltanska 1, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- University Department of Health Studies, University of Split, Rudera Boskovica 35, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Stipe Dumancic
- School of Medicine, University of Split, Soltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (S.D.); (D.K.G.)
| | - Mirela Pavicic Ivelja
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Split, Soltanska 1, 21000 Split, Croatia; (R.G.); (M.P.I.); (I.J.)
- University Department of Health Studies, University of Split, Rudera Boskovica 35, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Irena Jeličić
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Split, Soltanska 1, 21000 Split, Croatia; (R.G.); (M.P.I.); (I.J.)
| | - Danijela Kalibovic Govorko
- School of Medicine, University of Split, Soltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (S.D.); (D.K.G.)
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital of Split, Soltanska 1, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Ivana Medvedec Mikić
- School of Medicine, University of Split, Soltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (S.D.); (D.K.G.)
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital of Split, Soltanska 1, 21000 Split, Croatia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +385-21557699
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Babaei M, Kanannejad Z, Sepahi N, Alyasin S. The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients with Primary Immunodeficiency: A Cohort Study. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2022; 47:162-166. [PMID: 35291437 PMCID: PMC8919309 DOI: 10.30476/ijms.2022.92862.2415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Both adaptive and innate immune responses are essential for an effective defense against the severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection.
We aimed to investigate the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on patients with primary immunodeficiency (PID).
This study was performed on patients who were diagnosed with PID by immunologist specialists and referred to Imam Reza Clinic of Asthma and Allergy,
affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, (Shiraz, Iran) for regular check-ups. The patients were enrolled in this cohort study and followed for
any sign of COVID-19 from March 2020 to May 2021. COVID-19 infection was confirmed using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay
of nasal and pharyngeal swabs. Among the 90 PID patients under study, nine patients (10%) were diagnosed positive for COVID-19 infection.
Five out of these nine patients belonged to the combined immunodeficiency (CID) category, while four patients were categorized as having primary antibody
deficiencies (PADs). Eight patients with COVID-19 were required to be admitted to the hospital, and three patients died after hospitalization due to
COVID-19 infection. It seems that patients with CID are at a higher risk of mortality, due to COVID-19 infection, that other types of PID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Babaei
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Kanannejad
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Najmeh Sepahi
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Soheila Alyasin
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Haider MZ, Al-Mannai A, Al-Sirhan S, Elsabagh A, Nasser N, Al-Quraishi N, Ouda A, Erradi K, Ashour AA, Gupta I, Abdulmajeed J, Al-Romaihi HE, Bansal D, Musa OAH, Abd Farag EAB, Al-Thani MHJ, Al Moustafa AE. Impact of Smoking on COVID-19 Symptoms in Non-Vaccinated Patients: A Matched Observational Study from Qatar. J Multidiscip Healthc 2022; 15:531-540. [PMID: 35321233 PMCID: PMC8937311 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s347130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Predisposition to acute illness from COVID-19 is suggested to correlate with cigarette smoking as it augments the risk of developing cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, including infections. However, the effects of smoking on COVID-19 symptoms are not well described and controversial. In this study, we aim to explore the associations between smoking and COVID-19 symptoms. Subjects and Methods A cross-sectional study using the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Qatar database was administered to a Qatari population with confirmed COVID-19 disease who filled in pre-defined phone-call questionnaire between 27th February 2020 and 31st December 2020. We analyzed 11,701 non-vaccinated COVID-19 individuals (2952 smokers and 8749 non-smokers) with confirmed RT-PCR test results. The association of smoking and the presence of symptoms as well as patient characteristics was calculated using Pearson’s Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, adjusting for potential covariates. Results Compared with the non-smokers, symptomatic COVID-19 infection is significantly higher in smokers. In addition, we found fever as the most common symptom developed in COVID-19 patients followed by cough, headache, muscle ache, and sore throat. As compared to other symptoms, association of smoking with chills and abdominal pain was less evident (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). However, both groups showed similar rates of developing cough. Conclusion In conclusion, smoking is associated with COVID-19 symptoms frequency in non-vaccinated patients; nevertheless, further investigations are necessary to understand the mechanism of this association which could generate new targets for the management of COVID-19 in smoker patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amna Al-Mannai
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sally Al-Sirhan
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed Elsabagh
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nasser Nasser
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Amr Ouda
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khadija Erradi
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anas A Ashour
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ishita Gupta
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Correspondence: Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar, Tel +974 4403 7817, Fax +974 4403-3333, Email
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Okoro J, Ekeroku A, Nweze B, Odionye T, Nkire J, Onuoha M, Ezeonwuka C, Owoh J. Attitude and preventive practices towards COVID-19 disease and the impact of awareness training on knowledge of the disease among correctional officers. EMERALD OPEN RESEARCH 2022; 2:51. [PMCID: PMC8830800 DOI: 10.35241/emeraldopenres.13839.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 remains a public health emergency of international concern. Efforts at the global and national levels are being made to control its spread. The Nigerian Correctional Service is also proactive in the fight against the disease by organizing COVID-19 awareness training for correctional officers. We conducted a pre- and post-test assessment of COVID-19 knowledge among correctional officers in Enugu State Command to determine the impact of awareness training on their knowledge level. The study also assessed correctional officers’ attitude and preventive practices towards the disease. The mean knowledge score was 19.34 out of 25, and the awareness training significantly improved the participants’ COVID-19 knowledge. We found a significant moderate, positive correlation between knowledge and attitude/practice, and a significantly higher knowledge level among those with higher educational qualifications. Regular hand washing with soap and water (87.9%), wearing face masks (84.4%), and social distancing (83%) were practiced by the majority of the participants. . The majority of the participants (53.2%) received COVID-19 information from multiple sources including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and the World Health Organization
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnson Okoro
- Nigerian Correctional Service, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | - Ambrose Ekeroku
- Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organization, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | - Benedicta Nweze
- Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | | | - Joel Nkire
- Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Jude Owoh
- Biological Sciences, Quinnipiac University, Connecticut, CT, United States
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