Less aligned emphasis has been given to the COVID-19 infodemic coordinating with the COVID-19 outbreak. Global profusion of tangled monikers and hashtags has found their ways in daily communication and contributed to backlash against Chinese. Official naming efforts against infodemic should be meet with a fair share of identification. Based on brief critical reviews on previous multifarious naming practices, we punctuate heuristic introspection in scientific conventions and sociocultural paradigms. Infodemiological analysis promises to articulate that people around the globe are divided in their favor stigmatized monikers in the public and scientific communities because of perceptual bias. There is no positive correlation between the degree of infection in their territories and collective perceptual bias to COVID-19. The official portfolio “COVID-19” and “SARS-CoV-2” has not become de facto standard usages, but full-fledged official names are excepted to duly contribute to the resilience of negative perceptual bias and collective behavioral propensities.

There is a current worldwide outbreak of a new type of coronavirus (2019-nCoV), which originated from China and has now spread to 17 other countries. Governments are under increase pressure to stop the outbreak spiraling into a global health emergency. At this stage, preparedness, transparency and sharing of information are crucial to risk assessments and beginning outbreak control activities. This information should include reports from outbreak sites, and from laboratories supporting the investigation. This paper aggregates and consolidates the virology, epidemiology, clinical management strategies from both English and Chinese literature, official news channels and other official government documents. In addition, by fitting the number of infections with a single-term exponential model, we report that the infection is spreading at an exponential rate, with a doubling period of 1.8 days.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an emerging infectious disease with currently a pandemic state. Cardiac function can be involved, affecting prognosis, in addition with lung feature severity, particularly in patients with comorbidities. Since the renin angiotensin aldosterone (RAA) system may interact with SARS-Cov-2, researches are still ongoing to assess the prognostic value of RAA blockers in cardiology.

The outbreak of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has rapidly spread from Wuhan, China to multiple countries, causing staggering number of infections and deaths. A systematic profiling of the immune vulnerability landscape of 2019-nCoV is lacking, which can bring critical insights into the immune clearance mechanism, peptide vaccine development, and antiviral antibody development. In this study, we predicted the potential of all the 2019-nCoV viral proteins to induce class I and II MHC presentation and form linear antibody epitopes. We showed that the enrichment for T cell and B cell epitopes is not uniform on the viral genome, with several focused regions that generate abundant epitopes and may be more targetable. We showed that genetic variations in 2019-nCoV, though fewer for the moment, already follow the pattern of mutations in related coronaviruses, and could alter the immune vulnerability landscape of this virus, which should be considered in the development of therapies. We create an online database to broadly share our research outcome. Overall, we present an immunological resource for 2019-nCoV that could significantly promote both therapeutic development and mechanistic research.

A novel coronavirus called 2019-nCoV was recently found in Wuhan, Hubei Province of China, and now is spreading across China and other parts of the world. 2019-nCoV spreads more rapidly than SARS-CoV. Unfortunately, there is no drug to combat the virus. It is of high significance to develop a drug that can combat the virus effectively before the situation gets worse. It usually takes a much longer time to develop a drug using traditional methods. For 2019-nCoV, it is now better to rely on some alternative methods to develop drugs that can combat such a disease effectively since 2019-nCoV is highly homologous to SARS-CoV. In this paper, we first collected virus RNA sequences from the GISAID database, translated the RNA sequences into protein sequences, and built a protein 3D model using homology modeling. Coronavirus main protease is considered to be a major therapeutic target, thus this paper focused on drug screening based on the modeled 2019-nCov_main_protease structure. The deep learning based method DFCNN, developed by our group, can identify/rank the protein-ligand interactions with relatively high accuracy. DFCNN is capable of performing virtual screening quickly since no docking or molecular dynamic simulation is needed. DFCNN identifies potential drugs for 2019-nCoV protease by performing drug screening against 4 chemical compound databases. Also, we performed drug screening for all tripeptides against the binding site of 2019-nCov_main_protease since peptides often show better stability, more bio-availability and negligible immune responses. In the end, we provided the list of possible chemical ligands and peptide drugs for experimental validation.

The ongoing pandemic of the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) raises a global health crisis, which has resulted in 75,778 confirmed cases with 2130 deaths in China and beyond. Atypical symptom renders it challenging to earlier recognize the 2019-nCoV carrier with the potential ability of equivalent transmission. Therefore, it is needed to gain full spectrum of COVID-19. Here we report clustered COVID-19 cases of person-to-person transmission. The symptoms of typical pneumonia are shared by the two familial members, namely son (Patient 1) and father (Patient 2). Unexpectedly, an influenza-like illness (ILI) is also caused in Patient 3 having close contact with Patient 1 at personal dinner party. Combined with clinical and epidemiological study, chest computed tomography (CT) and molecular diagnosis demonstrate that all the three cases tested positive for COVID-19 with distinct symptoms by human-to-human transmission. To the best of knowledge, it closes in part (if not all), a missing gap of clinical repertoires of COVID-19 outbreaks and underlines the possibility that neglection of cryptic/asymptomatic/mild cold-like syndromes gives biased screen in the earlier stage of COVID-19 cases.

A novel and highly pathogenic coronavirus (2019-nCoV)-induced pneumonia spread worldwide in a short time. However, studies on the effects of 2019-nCoV on the male reproductive system are limited. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics of the male reproductive system of COVID-19 patients and to explore the presence of 2019-nCoV in semen. Retrospective, single-center case series of 112 male patients with confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2 to March 7, 2020. Demographic data, symptoms and signs related to the male reproductive system, throat swabs and semen samples were collected and analyzed. 2019-nCoV RNA measured in throat swab and semen samples. The organ distribution of ACE2 mRNA and protein in human tissue on The Human Protein Atlas portal and investigated immunohistochemistry (IHC) images of the testis. The HPA dataset revealed relatively high levels of ACE2 protein and RNA expression in the testis. A total of 3 severe COVID-19 patients (2.7%) presented with orchidoptosis, while no patients experienced other symptoms or signs related to the male reproductive system. The analysis of 2019-nCoV RNA in semen included 17 patients with fertility needs. Among these patients, 9 (52.9%) remained positive for 2019-nCoV according to throat swab analysis, and 8 (47.1%) became negative. In the semen 2019-nCoV analysis, all 17 patients were negative for the N gene and ORF1ab gene. In view of the potential impairment, long-term follow-up for male COVID-19 patients with fertility needs is of great significance.

With the rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that results in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), corporate entities, federal, state, county and city governments, universities, school districts, places of worship, prisons, health care facilities, assisted living organizations, daycares, homeowners, and other building owners and occupants have an opportunity to reduce the potential for transmission through built environment (BE) mediated pathways. Over the last decade, substantial research into the presence, abundance, diversity, function, and transmission of microbes in the BE has taken place and revealed common pathogen exchange pathways and mechanisms. In this paper, we synthesize this microbiology of the BE research and the known information about SARS-CoV-2 to provide actionable and achievable guidance to BE decision makers, building operators, and all indoor occupants attempting to minimize infectious disease transmission through environmentally mediated pathways. We believe this information is useful to corporate and public administrators and individuals responsible for building operations and environmental services in their decision-making process about the degree and duration of social-distancing measures during viral epidemics and pandemics.

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) linked with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a serious threat to public health worldwide. Firstly, the SARS-CoV-2 was reported in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019. Initially, the major proportion of virus-infected cases (i.e. about 99%) was reported in China and now it is being reported in other counties as well. Humans begin to be infected within their communities and transmittance of the viral epidemic increased rapidly due to lack of understanding of its transmission routes and precautionary measures. The existence of SARS-CoV-2 in China threatened the population greatly due to the high incidence of fatal respiratory infections. Current investigations speculated that this virus transferred into a human from viral-infected bats. However, the process of interspecies viral transmission is an important scientific question to be addressed. Due to the continuous increase in the patients infected with COVID-19 associated pneumonia, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included this viral epidemic to the priority list of diseases. Therefore, accelerated research developments are required to control the spread of this outbreak, as it is declared as a public health emergency by WHO especially in the absence of efficacious drugs and vaccines. Our review encompasses the recent status of disease severity in China, a particular replication mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 and potential risks and precautionary measures required to avoid contact with this fatal viral infection.

The recent outbreak of the new virus in Wuhan city, China from the sea food market has led to the identification of a new strain called the corona virus and named as novel corona virus (2019-nCoV) belonging to Coronaviridae family. This has created major havoc and concern due to the mortality of 250 persons and affecting more than 10,000 people. This virus causes sudden fever, pneumonia and also kidney failure. In this study a computational approach is proposed for drug and vaccine design. The spike protein sequences were collected from a protein database and analysed with various bioinformatics tools to identify suitable natural inhibitors for the N-terminal receptor binding domain of spike protein. Also, it is attempted to identify suitable vaccine candidates by identifying B-Cell and T-cell epitopes. In the drug design, the tanshinone Iia and methyl Tanshinonate were identified as natural inhibitors based on the docking score. In the vaccine design, B-cell epitope VLLPLVSSQCVNLTTRTQLPPAYTN was found to have the highest antigenicity. FVFLVLLPL of MHC class-I allele and FVFLVLLPL of MHC class-II allele were identified as best peptides based on a number of alleles and antigencity scores. The present study identifies natural inhibitors and putative antigenic epitopes which may be useful as effective drug and vaccine candidates for the eradication of novel corona virus.

The COVID-19 pandemic is placing unprecedented stress on healthcare systems around the world. Although Radiation Oncology Departments are not at the frontline of fighting this infectious disease, it is important to implement COVID-19 policies to reduce risk of staff and patient exposure, and to limit the risk of department shutdown or downtime. This brief report describes the policy implemented at George Washington University Radiation Oncology to manage the risks of COVID-19. This includes a General Statement related to the priorities of the Radiation Oncology department, a screening procedure for new and follow-up patients, management policies for critical and non-critical patients with COVID-19 or under quarantine, a policy for the management of patients currently under treatment who are diagnosed or placed in quarantine, a clinical escalation action plan, guidelines for staff meetings and travel, and procedure management. This policy was implemented at George Washington University Radiation Oncology after the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Washington DC on March 7, 2020.

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a public health emergency of international concern caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). As of this time, there is no known effective pharmaceutical, phytopharmaceutical or traditional medicine for cure or prevention of COVID-19, although it is urgently needed. In this review, based on the current understanding of the disease molecular mechanisms of novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and its closest relative SARS-CoV and other human Coronaviruses, I have identified some naturally occurring plant based substances and Ayurvedic medicinal herbs that could feasibly be tested as a matter of urgency for prevention as well as therapeutic option for COVID-19 in India and other parts of the world. I conclude that dried rhizome of Curcuma longa L. i.e. turmeric, and its active ingredient curcumin may be effective in preventing as well as cure the COVID-19 pandemic due to its proven antiviral activities, this however need to be tested by appropriate clinical trials as research priority.

There is a long trail of research studies testing the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of chloroquine and its derivatives in treating and preventing infection by various coronavirus species. More recent findings have highlighted the possibility of treating patients infected with the 2019 novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. This review describes the mechanism of coronavirus infection, the mechanism of action of chloroquine, and summarizes the available literature highlighting the efficacy of chloroquine as an anti-coronavirus agent. These findings should encourage the wider scientific community to conduct thorough research on the possible efficacy of chloroquine and its derivatives in treating and preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection.

In the past decades, several new diseases have emerged in new geographical areas, with pathogens including Ebola, Zika, Nipah, and coronaviruses (CoVs). Recently, a new type of viral infection has emerged in Wuhan City, China, and initial genomic sequencing data of this virus does not match with previously sequenced CoVs, suggesting a novel CoV strain (2019-nCoV), which has now been termed as severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Although Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is suspected to originate from an animal host (zoonotic origin) followed by human-to-human transmission, the possibility of other routes such as food-borne transmission should not be ruled out. Compared to diseases caused by previously known human CoVs, COVID-19 shows less severe pathogenesis but higher transmission competence, as is evident from the continuously increasing number of confirmed cases globally. Compared to other emerging viruses such as Ebola virus, avian H7N9, SARS-CoV, or MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 has shown relatively low pathogenicity and moderate transmissibility. Codon usage studies suggest that this novel virus may have been transferred from an animal source such as bats. Early diagnosis by real-time PCR and next-generation sequencing has facilitated the identification of the pathogen at an early stage. Since, no antiviral drug or vaccine exists to treat or prevent SARS-CoV-2, potential therapeutic strategies that are currently being evaluated predominantly stem from previous experience with treating SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and other emerging viral diseases. In this review, we address epidemiological, diagnostic, clinical, and therapeutic aspects, including perspectives of vaccines and preventive measures that have already been globally recommended.

Data on pathologic changes of the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are scarce. To gain knowledge about the pathology that may contribute to disease progression and fatality, we performed post-mortem needle core biopsies of lung, liver, and heart in four patients who died of COVID-19 pneumonia. The patients’ ages ranged from 59 to 81, including 3 males and 1 female. Each patient had at least one underlying disease, including immunocompromised status (chronic lymphocytic leukemia and renal transplantation) or other conditions (cirrhosis, hypertension, and diabetes). Time from disease onset to death ranged from 15 to 52 days. All patients had elevated white blood cell counts, with significant rise toward the end, and all had lymphocytopenia except for the patient with leukemia. Histologically, the main findings are in the lungs, including injury to the alveolar epithelial cells, hyaline membrane formation, and hyperplasia of type II pneumocytes, all components of diffuse alveolar damage. Consolidation by fibroblastic proliferation with extracellular matrix and fibrin forming clusters in airspaces is evident. In one patient, the consolidation consists of abundant intra-alveolar neutrophilic infiltration, consistent with superimposed bacterial bronchopneumonia. The liver exhibits mild lobular infiltration by small lymphocytes, and centrilobular sinusoidal dilation. Patchy necrosis is also seen. The heart shows only focal mild fibrosis and mild myocardial hypertrophy, changes likely related to the underlying conditions. In conclusion, the post-mortem examinations show advanced diffuse alveolar damage, as well as superimposed bacterial pneumonia in some patients. Changes in the liver and heart are likely secondary or related to the underlying diseases.

An outbreak of novel coronavirus(2019-nCoV) that began in Wuhan, China, is rapidly spreading to all over China, and gradually to multiple countries. Regarding to put the epidemic prevention and spread under the control, early identification and diagnosis play a critical role. Patients with initially no or mild symptoms of Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (2019-nCoV), namely “stealth” infection, often lack of typical clinical evidence to establish the diagnosis. Based on the clinical analysis of 4 cases in stealth infection, the results of this study highlight that early diagnosis requires a combination of epidemiological history, clinical manifestations, early chest CT examination, and 2019-nCoV RNA test (nucleic acid test), with particular emphasis on definite epidemiological history and early chest CT findings when positive nucleic acid tests lag behind.

There is currently a lack of pathologic data on the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pneumonia, or COVID-19, from autopsy or biopsy. Two patients who recently underwent lung lobectomies for adenocarcinoma were retrospectively found to have had COVID-19 at the time of surgery. These two cases thus provide important first opportunities to study the pathology of COVID-19. Pathologic examinations revealed that, apart from the tumors, the lungs of both patients exhibited edema, proteinaceous exudate, focal reactive hyperplasia of pneumocytes with patchy inflammatory cellular infiltration, and multinucleated giant cells. Hyaline membranes were not prominent. Since both patients did not exhibit symptoms of pneumonia at the time of surgery, these changes likely represent an early phase of the lung pathology of COVID-19 pneumonia.

In this report, we demonstrate that it is possible to design epitope-based peptide vaccine candidates to counteract the novel China coronavirus (2019-nCoV) by using an approach similar to the one used in cancer neoantigen vaccination therapy. We identified multiepitope peptide vaccine candidates against 2019-nCov that can potentially trigger both CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell immune response with increased efficiency due to the presence of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell epitopes and a cathepsin-sensitive linker. Furthermore, we suggest that the peptide design strategy should incorporate population-specific HLA alleles in order to optimize binding specificity of the peptides. We refer to this as populationalized vaccinomics.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive and potentially fatal complication of sickle cell disease (SCD) affecting 6-10% of adult SCD patients. Various mechanisms and theories have been evaluated to explain the pathophysiology of the disease. However, questions remain, particularly regarding the clinical heterogeneity of the disease in terms of symptoms, complications, and survival. Beyond the classical mechanisms that have been thoroughly investigated and include hemolysis, nitric oxide availability, endothelial disorders, thrombosis, and left heart failure, attention is focused nowadays on the potential role of the genes involved in such processes. Potential candidate genes are investigated through next-generation sequencing, with the TGF-β pathway being the initial target. This field of research may also provide novel targets for pharmacologic agents in the future as is already the case with idiopathic PH. The collection and processing of data and samples from multiple centers can yield safe results that will allow a better understanding of SCD-related PH as a part of the disease’s clinical spectrum. The following review attempts to capture the most recent findings of studies on gene polymorphisms that have been associated with PH in SCD patients.

During its first month, the recently emerged 2019 Wuhan novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has already infected many thousands of people in mainland China and worldwide and took hundreds of lives. However, the swiftly spreading virus also caused an unprecedentedly rapid response from the research community facing the unknown health challenge of potentially enormous proportions. Unfortunately, the experimental research to understand the molecular mechanisms behind the viral infection and to design a vaccine or antivirals is costly and takes months to develop. To expedite the advancement of our knowledge we leverage the data about the related coronaviruses that is readily available in public databases, and integrate these data into a single computational pipeline. As a result, we provide a comprehensive structural genomics and interactomics road-maps of SARS-CoV-2 and use these information to infer the possible functional differences and similarities with the related SARS coronavirus. All data are made publicly available to the research community at http://korkinlab.org/wuhan .

The 2019-nCoV has been identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China beginning in December 2019. This epidemic had spread to 19 countries with 11,791 confirmed cases, including 213 deaths, as of January 31, 2020. The World Health Organization declared it as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This study analyzed and discussed 70 research articles published until January 31, 2020 for a better understanding of the epidemiology, causes, clinical diagnosis, prevention and control of this virus. Studies thus far have shown origination in connection to a seafood market in Wuhan, but specific animal association has not been confirmed. The reported symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, pneumonia, headache, diarrhea, hemoptysis, and dyspnea. Preventive measures such as masks, hand hygiene practices, avoidance of public contact, case detection, contact tracing, and quarantines are effective for reducing the transmission. To date, no specific antiviral treatment is proven effective, hence, infected people primarily rely on symptomatic treatment and supportive care. Although these studies had relevance to control a public emergency, more research need to be conducted to provide valid and reliable ways to manage this kind of public health emergency in both short- and long- term.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to be a global threat due to its ability to evolve and generate new subvariants, leading to new waves of infection. Additionally, other coronaviruses like Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV, formerly known as hCoV-EMC) which first emerged in 2012, persists and continues to present a threat of severe illness to humans. The continued identification of novel coronaviruses, coupled with the potential for genetic recombination between different strains, raises the possibility of new coronavirus clades of global concern emerging. As a result, there is a pressing need for pan-CoV therapeutic drugs and vaccines. After extensive optimization of an HCV protease inhibitor screening hit, a novel 3CLPro inhibitor (MK-7845) was discovered and subsequently profiled. MK-7845 exhibited nanomolar in vitro potency with broad spectrum activity against a panel of clinical SARS-CoV-2 subvariants and MERS-CoV. Furthermore, when administered orally, MK-7845 demonstrated a notable reduction of viral burdens by >6 log orders in the lungs of transgenic mice infected with SARS-CoV-2 (K18-hACE2 mice) and MERS-CoV (K18-hDDP4 mice).

Emerging and reemerging pathogens is a global challenge for public health. Recently, a novel coronavirus disease emerged in Wuhan, Hubei province of China, in December 2019. It is named COVID-19 by World Health Organization (WHO). It is known to be caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that affects the lower respiratory tract and manifests as pneumonia in humans. Coronaviruses (CoVs) are structurally more complicated as compared to other RNA viruses. This viral epidemic has led to the deaths of many, including the elderly or those with chronic disease or compromised immunity. Viruses cause infection and diseases in humans of varying degrees, upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) cause common cold while lower respiratory tract infections induce pneumonia, bronchitis, and even severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The costs of COVID-19 are not limited. It equally affects all the medical, sociological, psychological, and economic aspects globally. This is regarded as the third deadly outbreak in the last two decades after Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome SARS (2002–2003) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome MERS (2012). Based on the sequence homology of SARS-CoV-2, different animal sources including bats, snakes, and pangolins have been reported as potential carriers of this viral strain. Real-time RT-PCR represents the primary method for the diagnosis of new emerging viral strain SARS-CoV-2. The transmission dynamics suggest that SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted from person-to-person through direct contact or coughing, sneezing, and by respiratory droplets. Several anti-viral treatments including lopinavir/ritonavir, remdesivir, chloroquine phosphate, and abidor are also suggested with different recommendations and prescriptions. Protective and preventive strategies as suggested by various health organization i.e. WHO and US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) must be adopted by everyone. This review covers the important aspects of novel COVID-19 including characteristics, virology, symptoms, diagnostics, clinical aspects, transmission dynamics, and protective measures of COVID-19.

COVID-19 disease outbreak was started in the December, 2019 in the Wuhan city of China which is also known as the largest transportation hub of China. During the spring festival of China the situation become epidemic. Soon, the virus is imported to many regions including the low income countries. Till now, 234073 infected reported cases of the COVID-19 in the world with the total of 9840 deaths (March 20, 2020). The common symptoms of the COVID-19 are the cough, high fever, sore throat, fatigue and breathlessness. The disease is found to be mild in most of the people, some of cases reported to the pneumonia also with multi organ dysfunction and acute ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome). It is found that the incubation period for the infection is 2-14 days which is usually 4 days in maximum of cases. India has reported 283 cases of COVID-19 infections till now with 4 deaths. India is still at stage 2 on local transmission as per WHO report 60. WHO reported 60 clearly stated that there is no community transmission occurred in India yet which can be prevented by the avoiding mass gathering and proper screening of the people. Govt. of India has taken many initiatives to minimize the spread of COVID-19 infection in the country. The infection rate of the COVID-19 in India remains low related to population size of the country. It is because of fast government action to quarantine the suspected people and shut down all its borders. There is a great slowdown in the global economy due to COVID-19 attack which is likely to costs around $1 trillion. The spread of COVID-19 infection can be reduced by minimizing the H-H transmissions. Still there is need of Anti-n-CoV drug development which can replace the supporting therapies for the treatment of infection.

This case study investigates the heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in a patient with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We report the case of a 58-year old male who contracted COVID-19. During his disease, 24-hour Holter electrocardiography (ECG) was performed continuously. For comparison, his 24-hour Holter ECGs from the previous 10 years were available. In this patient, COVID-19 was associated with a decrease in HR and a paradoxical decline in HRV. An abrupt decline in HRV and a decrease in HR may signal the onset of COVID-19 before common symptoms such as dry cough or fever appear. In addition, HRV and HR measurements may help to evaluate the course of the disease.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a new viral respiratory disease and whether pregnant women are at increased risk of infection is unknown. Viral pneumonia is an important indirect cause of maternal death. Little is known about the effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during pregnancy. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 in pregnancy and their newborn infant, and we sought to explored whether the SARS-CoV-2 can be intrauterine vertically transmitted. Study Design: The study was a case series study conducted in the obstetric ward of Tongji Hospital affiliated to Huazhong University of science and technology, Wuhan, China. Demographic, clinical, laboratory and radiological profiles of the SARS-CoV-2 infection case series. A systematic testing procedure for SARS-CoV-2 infection using oropharyngeal swab, placenta tissue, vaginal mucus, and breast milk of mothers. and oropharyngeal swab, umbilical cord blood, and serum of newborns was conducted. Results: We have conducted the most thorough virological assessment to date, and we include a longer clinical observation in mother-infant dyads during hospitalization. The clinical course and outcomes of three pregnant women who acquired SARS-CoV-2 infection late pregnancy are described in mother-infant dyads. Two had caesarean delivery in their third trimester. All patients showed an uneventful perinatal course, and a successful outcome. No infants became infected by vertical transmission or during delivery. Conclusion: No evidence to suggest the potential risk of intrauterine vertical transmission in the case series and further in-depth study is needed. Both the pregnancy woman and infant showed fewer adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Background: On late December 2019, a viral pneumonia known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), was originated from China and spread very rapidly in the world. Therefore, COVID-19 became a global concern and health problem. Methods: We presented four patients in this study. They were selected from patients who presented with pneumonia symptoms and were suspicious for COVID-19 and referred to the intended centers for COVID-19 diagnosis and management of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in the south of Iran. Two nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal throat swab samples were collected from each patient and tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) detection by real-time reverse-transcriptase–polymerase-chain-reaction (RT-PCR), and also samples were sent for influenza viruses and all the respiratory panel. Results: In the present report, four patients were diagnosed in the starting days of COVID-19 disease in our center in south of Iran with co-infection of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus. Conclusions: This co-infection of COVID-19 and influenza highlights the importance of considering SARS-CoV-2 PCR assay regardless of other positive findings for other pathogens in the primary test during the epidemic.

In July 2017, a family of three members; a 46-year-old male, a 45-year-old female and their 8-year-old daughter, returned to South Africa from Thailand. They presented symptoms consistent with mosquito-borne diseases, including fever, headaches, severe body aches and nausea. Mosquito bites in all family members suggested recent exposure to arthropod-borne viruses. Dengue virus 1 (Genus Orthoflavivirus) was isolated (isolate no. SA397) from the serum of the 45-year-old female via intracerebral injection in neonatal mice and subsequent passage in VeroE6 cells. Phylogenetic analysis of this strain indicated close genetic identity with cosmopolitan genotype 1 DENV1 strains from Southeast Asia, assigned to major lineage K, minor lineage 1 (DENV1I_K.1), such as GZ8H (99.92%) collected in November 2018 from China and DV1I-TM19-74 isolate (99.72%) identified in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2019. Serum samples from the 46-year-old male yielded a virus isolate that could not be confirmed as DENV1, prompting unbiased metagenomic sequencing for virus identification and characterization. Illumina sequencing identified multiple segments of a Mammalian orthoreovirus (MRV), designated Human/SA395/SA/2017. Genomic and phylogenetic analysis classified Human/SA395/SA/2017 as MRV-3 and assigned a tentative genotype MRV-3d based on the S1 segment. Genomic analyses suggested Human/SA395/SA/2017 may have originated from reassortments of segments among swine, bat, and human MRVs. The closest identity of the viral attachment protein σ1 (S1) was related to a human isolate identified from Tahiti, French Polynesia, in 1960. This indicates ongoing circulation and cocirculation of Southeast Asian and Polynesian strains, but detailed knowledge is hampered by limited availability of genomic surveillance. This case represents a rare concurrent importation of two distinct viruses with different transmission routes in the same family with similar clinical presentations. It highlights the complexities of diagnosing diseases with similar sequelae in travellers returning from tropical areas.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is considered to be first reported from Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019. As of present, there are over 3.7 million identified cases worldwide and more than 259,000 deaths have been reported. This disease, its incubation period, course, complications, and the basis of spread remains a potential question due to variation in the pattern of spread around the globe and relatively fewer number of large-scale studies at present. This literature review aims to study the available data on its spread and incubation period. A literature search using PubMed with regular keywords ‘coronavirus’ and ‘COVID-19’, and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) search for their etiology and pathogenicity was done with the search builder. The literature search revealed 26,689 studies among which 14 studies were selected for review. Studies were selected after the application of inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria with the removal of duplicates, and careful review for the outcome of interest ‘incubation period’. Among the 14 studies selected for review, there were eight review articles, five case reports, and one comparative study. The current literature review concludes that the mean incubation period for most of the literature falls between five days to 12 days with minimum reported time from known exposure to the onset of a symptom being one day and the maximum reported time from exposure to the onset of a symptom being 18 days.

Goals: To use visual logistics for interpreting COVID-19 molecular and rapid antigen test (RAgT) performance, determine prevalence boundaries where risk exceeds expectations, and evaluate benefits of recursive testing along home, community, and emergency spatial care paths. Methods: Mathematica/open access software helped graph relationships, compare performance patterns, and perform recursive computations. Results: Tiered sensitivity/specificity comprise: T1) 90%/95%; T2) 95%/97.5%; and T3) 100%/≥99%, respectively. In emergency medicine, median RAgT performance peaks at 13.2% prevalence, then falls below T1, generating risky prevalence boundaries. RAgTs in pediatric ERs/EDs parallel this pattern with asymptomatic worse than symptomatic performance. In communities, RAgTs display large uncertainty with median prevalence boundary of 14.8% for 1/20 missed diagnoses, and at prevalence >33.3-36.9% risk 10% false omissions for symptomatic subjects. Recursive testing improves home RAgT performance. Home molecular tests elevate performance above T1, but lack adequate validation. Conclusions: Widespread RAgT availability encourages self-testing. Asymptomatic RAgT and PCR-based saliva testing present the highest chance of missed diagnoses. Home testing twice, once just before mingling, and molecular-based self-testing help avoid false omissions. Community and ER/ED RAgTs can identify contagiousness in low prevalence (<22%). Real-world trials of performance, cost-effectiveness, and public health impact could identify home molecular diagnostics as the optimal diagnostic portal.

During December 2019, a novel coronavirus named as 2019-nCoV, has emerged in Wuhan, China. The human to human transmission of this virus has also been established. Untill now the virus has infected more than seven thousand people and has spread to fifteen countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared 2019-nCoV as global health emergency due to its outburst well beyond China. There is need to develop some vaccines or therapeutics to control or prevent 2019-nCoV infections. The bottleneck with current conventional approaches is that these require longer time for vaccine development. However, computer assisted approaches help us to produce effective vaccine in short time compared with conventional methods. In this study, bioinformatics analysis was used to predict B cell and T cell epitopes of surface glycoprotein of 2019-nCoV that could be suitable to trigger significant immune response. The sequence of surface glycoprotein was collected from the database and analyzed to identify the immunogenic epitope. Both B cell and T cell epitopes were analyzed so the predicted epitopes can stimulate both cellular and humoral immune responses. We predicted 13 B cell and 05 T cell epitopes that later on were joined with GPGPG linker to make a single peptide. This computational approach to design a multi epitope peptide vaccine against emerging 2019-nCoV allows us to find novel immunogenic epitopes against the antigen targets of surface 2019-nCoV surface glycoprotein. This multi epitope peptide vaccine may prove effective to combat 2019-nCoV infections.

Myocardial infarction is an uncommon manifestation in anomalous coronary artery (ACA). As usual, the electrocardiogram (ECG) was used to detect myocardial infarction. Unfortunately, the ECG’s pattern could not reveal the ACA’s condition. Some investigators tried to describe the pattern in ECG in ACA’s patients. Due to the rare patients of ACA, it was not yet found.

This study explores the impact on the stability of drying and encapsulation of a camu camu extract (CCX) using the non-thermal, high-throughput electrospraying assisted by pressurized gas (EAPG) technique. The dried and encapsulated products by the EAPG processing techniques were compared in terms of total soluble phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and storage stability. Whey protein concentrate (WPC) and zein (ZN) were selected as the protective excipients for encapsulation. Dried and encapsulated products were obtained in the form of microparticles, which were smaller and more spherical in the case of the encapsulates. No significant differences were observed in the total polyphenolic content (TSP), and only relatively small differences in the antioxidant capacity were measured among samples. The generated products were subjected to various storage conditions to assess their stability and the preservation of the TSP and the antioxidant properties, i.e. 0% relative humidity (RH) and 4°C; 0% RH and 21°C; 23% RH and 21°C; 56% RH and 21°C; and UV light exposure. The results indicated that ZN encapsulation notably enhanced the retention of total soluble polyphenols and antioxidant activity compared to WPC and dried CCX, especially in the ratio 2:1 (encapsulating polymer: dried CCX). This study demonstrates the potential of protein-based encapsulation, particularly using ZN, for stabilizing bioactive compounds against degradation mechanisms induced by humidity, temperature, or ultraviolet radiation exposure.

Background/aims: Prior research identified a significant association between heart disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated liver steatohepatitis (MASLD), but the mechanisms are unclear. This study aims to search predictive biomarkers for grade I left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), an early stage of heart failure (HF), in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Methods: This single-center, prospective observational study screened 73 T2DM patients for grade 1 LVDD and MASLD using 2D echocardiography, tissue analysis, spectral color Doppler, and Fibromax. Results: The study analyzed 50 patients (mean age 58±11.3 years) with a median diabetes duration of 7 years, abdominal obesity (mean BMI 34.4±5.9 kg/m2), and a mean HbA1c of 7.9±1.5%. The prevalence of grade I LVDD, fibrosis, mild steatosis, moderate to severe liver steatosis, mild MASLD, and moderate MASLD was 54%, 44%, 14%, 80%, 43%, and 34%, respectively. Regression analysis revealed that grade 1 LVDD was positively associated with age, Fibrotest, ɑ2-macroglobulin, epicardiac adipose tissue (EAT), and negatively associated with lateral s`, E wave, E/e`, E/A, medium E`, and septal e` (p&lt; 0.05 for all). ɑ2-macroglobulin &gt; 1.92 g/L (AUROC= 0.782, sensitivity 70.4%, specificity 81.2%) and fibrotest score &gt; 0.11 (AUROC 0.766, sensitivity 92.6%, specificity 56.2%) were significant predictors of grade I LVDD. Conclusion: HF is a multifaceted disorder associated with multisystem organ damage, including nonalcoholic MASLD. Although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, innovative non-invasive biomarkers, such as ɑ2-macroglobulin or fibrotest, could concurrently indicate liver stiffness and the likelihood of grade I LVDD, an early, asymptomatic HF stage in T2DM patients.

Novel Coronavirus infection mediated pandemic started in China in December 2019 and is still killing 1000s of people throughout the world. The second most populous country, India too is fighting against this infectious disease. The country is taking effective measures to curb the pandemic by exerting extensive campaigning on sanitation and strict social distancing measures to quell the explosion of the infection rate. The future of the COVID-19 infections in India still remain unpredictable, so precautionary methods need to be continued until the growth rate of new cases drop below one.

On March 11, 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). This review focuses on where the body mass index (BMI) value can be used as a tool to evaluate the risk of development and/or aggravation of this disease. Databases were used to search studies published up to April 18, 2020. In total, 4285 articles and other scientific literature were found, and twelve articles were included in this systematic review. The mean BMI value of severe COVID-19 patients ranged from 24.5 to 33.4 kg/m², versus 22.0 to 24.3 kg/m² for non-severe patients Articles using the terms obesity or overweight, without indicating the BMI value, in these patients were common, but this is not useful as the nutritional status, when not defined by this index, is confusing due to the classification being different in the West compared to among,, Asian and Korean criteria-based adults. Furthermore, the use of BMI is important during this pandemic, as it should be applied to nutritional support therapy during hospitalization of infected patients, as well as being considered in the home confinement population.

Objectives: This study aims to identify, report, and analyze registered and published clinical trials and observational studies for the pharmacological treatment of COVID-19 conducted in China. Methods: A strategic search was conducted via the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry to identify and extract clinical trials and observational studies registered and conducted in China for the pharmacological treatment of COVID-2019 between January 1^st, 2020 and March 21^st, 2020. This was further supplemented by searches conducted via the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, the MEDLINE database, the World Health Organization (WHO) database, and MedRxiv and BioRxiv electronic platforms for preprint articles, published up until April 8^th, 2020. Studies available in Chinese and English were included in the searches and extracted. A primary descriptive analysis was performed for registered clinical trials and observational studies identified in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry based on the extraction of the following clinical study information: trial ID, planned date of enrollment, recruitment status, study design, population, sample size, intervention/exposure group, control /reference group, dosage, and primary outcomes. A secondary descriptive analysis was performed for published clinical trials and observational studies identified from the supplementary databases based on the extraction of the following published clinical study information: study design, population, intervention/exposure group, control /reference group and main results as appropriate. Results: A total of 221 clinical trials and observational studies were included from all databases searched. From the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, 195 registered clinical studies including 170 clinical trials and 25 observational studies were identified and included for primary analysis. From the supplementary databases, 26 published clinical studies including 8 clinical trials and 18 observational studies were included for secondary analysis. Of these 26 published clinical studies, 18 studies, including 3 clinical trials and 15 observational studies were identified from CNKI, 2 studies including 1 clinical trial and 1 observational study from MEDLINE, 2 including 1 clinical trials and 1 observational studies from the WHO database, and 4 including 3 clinical trials and 1 observational studies from MedRxiv and BioRxiv platforms. In the primary analysis, among the 170 clinical trials included from the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, 101 investigated western medicines (WMs), while 15 investigated Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs), and 54 investigated a combination of TCMs and WMs. Among the 25 included observational studies from the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, 2 investigated WMs, 2 investigated TCMs, and 21 investigated a combination of TCMs and WMs. The total number of exposed patients in all 195 clinical studies from the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry amounted to 24,500. In the secondary analysis, treatment with Lopinavir-ritonavir and treatment with Hydroxychloroquine was not associated with a difference from standard of care in the rate of RT-PCR negativity; treatment with a combination of Lopinavir-ritonavir, interferon α, and Lian-Hua-Qing-Wen capsule was found to significantly improve the effective rate of treatment compared with Interferon α combined with Lian-Hua-Qing-Wen capsule. Conclusions: China is generating a massive source of evidence that is critical for defeating the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only the clinical experience, but also the scientific evidence should be shared with the global scientific community.

Poverty alleviation is a hallmark of post-revolution Chinese policymaking. Since 1978, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has implemented successive waves of poverty alleviation policies whose effects have become the focus of an ever-increasing body of academic literature. This paper reviews this diverse but limited literature that evaluates the impact of the CPC’s poverty reduction programs through four major channels, namely fiscal investment programs, social safety nets, rural governance on the village-, county- and provincial level, and the relocation of rural populations from destitute regions. This paper aims to synthesize results and evaluate whether and how the abovementioned poverty alleviation programs have had distinct positive or negative impacts on regional development outcomes. Furthermore, I highlight contradictions in empirical findings to motivate the discussion about contextual importance when designing and implementing future poverty alleviation programs. Finally, I suggest that an exhaustive and critical appraisal of the empirical strategies used in this literature would further the development and application of more accurate and informative methodologies.

Background: Post-marketing surveillance is crucial for gathering data on vaccine reactogenicity, enhancing public trust in immunization, and promoting vaccine uptake. This study aims to characterize adverse events following immunization (AEFI) and estimate the incidence rates of adverse reactions (ARs) associated with vaccines included in Taiwan's Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). The study utilizes data from Taiwan's Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). Methods: Vaccine injury claims submitted to the VICP between 2014 and 2019 were analyzed. ARs were defined as AEFIs adjudicated as ‘related’ or ‘indeterminate’ by the VICP committee. Data on the annual number of vaccine doses administered was obtained from the Taiwan CDC, which helped calculate AR incidence rates. Results: A total of 491 AEFI claims were reviewed, with 327 (66.6%) categorized as ARs. AEFIs were mainly associated with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine (43.4%) and the seasonal influenza vaccine (22.0%). Most EPI vaccines demonstrated low AR incidence rates, ranging from 1.68 to 13.6 per million doses, with the exception of BCG, which exhibited 162.5 ARs per million doses. Shifting BCG immunization from below 5 months to at least 5 months reduced osteomyelitis incidence significantly, from 41.4 to 7.9 (P = 0.0014), but increased abscess and lymphadenitis cases. Conclusion: EPI vaccines in Taiwan are highly safe, with minimal AR incidences in the general population. The BCG vaccine remains an exception, occasionally causing severe ARs like osteomyelitis. Adjusting the immunization schedule to an older age may mitigate some of these adverse effects.

During 2019, the number of patients suffering from cough, fever and reduction of WBC’s count increased. At the beginning, this mysterious illness was called “fever with unknown origin”. At the present time, the cause of this pneumonia is known as the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) or the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The SARS-CoV-2 is one member of great family of coronaviruses. Coronaviruses can cause different kind of illnesses including respiratory, enteric, hepatic, and neurological diseases in animals like cat and bat. Coronaviruses are enveloped positive-stranded RNA viruses. The SARS-CoV-2 has some particular structures for binding to host cells, reproducing itself in cells and damaging human cells. The SARS-CoV-2 can bind angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE‐2) receptors and cause various difficulties for human. The SARS-CoV-2 can cause either not-serious issues like fever and cough or serious concerns such as multi-organ failure. Source(s) of SARS-CoV-2 is under debate. Malayan pangolin and bat are the most suspicious candidate for being sources of the SARS-CoV-2. The SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted by various ways such as transmitting from infected human to healthy human and can make severe pneumonia, which can lead to death. The SARS-CoV-2 can infect different kind of people with different ages, races, and social and economic levels. The SARS‐CoV‐2 infection can cause various sorts of clinical manifestations like cough and fever and intensity of signs and symptoms depends on sufferer conditions. Clinicians use all of available documents and tests like laboratory, histopathological and radiological findings for diagnosing new cases and curing patients with high accuracy. At the present time, there is no particular way for treating SARS-CoV-2 infection; neither antiviral drugs nor palliative agents. It seems that the best way for standing against the SARS-CoV-2 infection is preventing from it by social distancing and vaccination. This review tries to prepare an essential brief update about SARS-CoV-2 infection for clinicians.

The global spread of coronavirus disease (COVID -19) worldwide has had a significant effect on social and economic growth. The contamination keeps on advancing quickly and eccentrically, representing a significant test to its recognition and conclusion. Coronaviruses are commonly recognized by seclusion from tests, regardless of whether natural or clinical, utilizing some atomic science procedures, which can take a few days. In this work an analytical review of virus transmission, methods of diagnosing COVID -19 using artificial intelligence techniques to classify images and types of biosensors. At long last, the deformities and points of interest of each kind of sensor are recognized and examined. This exploration gives an explanatory audit of the utilization of crown infection COVID-19 in 2019. Related examinations were led utilizing five dependable databases, for example, Science Direct, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. An acceptable investigation is remembered for this audit, which can be depended upon as a logical database to put resources into another technique for recognizing COIVD-19.

The outbreak across the globe due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread abruptly by infected humans worldwide. The continuous efforts by scientists is on way to understand how pandemic of COVID-19 resembles and differs from serve acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) at transcriptomic and genomic level. The SARS-CoV and COVID-19 exploits the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor to gain entry inside the cells.We analyzed the entry COVID-19 into host cell due to receptor binding domain (RBD) of spike glycoprotein. The proposed simulation data shows similar ternary structures from two viruses shares approximately 80 percent identity in amino acid sequences. Our molecular modeling investigation signifies that angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has stronger interaction with COVID -19 RBD. The Amino acid phenylaniline F486 LOOP plays vital role due to its penetration into hydrophobic pocket in ACE2.The said investigation of S-Glycoprotein RBD of COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 via ACE2 provides post genome analysis of protein-protein interaction for rapid assessing transmission of infected patients by deadly CoVID-19. The scientific data extracted implies early guidance to control and viral prevention of CoVID-19.

The disease of COVID-19 comprises the most serious against human health worldwide with a high rate of virulence and mortality. The disease is caused by the 2019-nCoV virus from the beta coronavirus family. The virus makes use of its surface glycoprotein named S protein or spike to enter the human cells. The virus attached to its receptor named angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 on host cells surface via its receptor-binding domain and its fusion is mediated by cleavage at S2' site that is carried out by surface protease. Vaccines or drugs interfering with S protein binding or cleavage sites could be considered as drugs to get rid of the infection. In the current work and though docking and molecular dynamic experiments we have checked more than 100 drugs with high enough molecular weights for their shielding potency toward S protein binding sites and processing S2' sites. Our results indicate the shielding potency of: fidaxomicin > ivermectin > heparin > azithromycin > clarithromycin > eryhthromycin > niclosamide > ritonavir. Considering affluent reports regarding the complex disturbance in the immune system and multi-organ involvement in the disease there is no single or binary drug regime for cure expectedly and instead, we claim the multi-drug regime should be the choice in this context. Accordingly, we suggest our extracted drugs as an adjuvant for clinical trials.

Background and Objective: China has managed to control the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) with confinement measurements and treatment strategies, while other countries are struggling to contain the spread. This study discusses the guidelines related to COVID-19 in China in order to provide important references for other countries in the fight against COVID-19. Methods: Chinese guidelines relevant to COVID-19 were systematically searched via the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, YiMaiTong database, and World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 database on March 20^th, 2020. Guideline information was extracted, including date of publication, source, objectives and the target population. Guidelines specific to the pharmacological treatment of COVID-19 were further investigated to identify the types of antivirus drugs recommended and to report on how treatment recommendations for COVID-19 have evolved overtime. Results: A total of 114 guidelines were identified, of which 87 were national guidelines and 27 were regional guidelines. The scope of included guidelines consisted of: the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19, the management of hospital departments and specific diseases during the outbreak of COVID-19. Sixty-four of the included guidelines targeted all COVID-19 patients, while the remaining guidelines concentrated on special patient populations (i.e., geriatric population, pediatric population, and pregnant population) or patients with coexisting diseases. Twenty-three guidelines focused on the pharmacological treatments for all COVID-19 patients. Interferon, Lopinavir/Ritonavir, Ribavirin, Chloroquine, and Umifenovir represented the most recommended antivirus drugs. With the emergence of encouraging results from preclinical and preliminary clinical studies, Chloroquine Phosphate was recommended in the national Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (6^th version) on February 19^th, 2020. Thereafter, more detailed guidelines regarding the adjustment of dosage regimens and the monitoring of adverse events of Chloroquine Phosphate were published. To date, 8 Chinese guidelines have recommended Chloroquine Phosphate or Hydroxychloroquine as mainstream antivirus drug for the treatment of COVID-19. Conclusions: China has generated a plethora of guidelines covering almost all aspects of COVID-19. Chloroquine, as one widely affordable treatment, holds great potential to become the gold standard choice as more clinical evidence is shared by researchers from China as well as other countries.

This study describes KPC-204, a novel variant of Klebsiella Pneumoniae carbapenemase, characterized by a KDD amino acid insertion at Ambler position 269 deviates from KPC-2. This variant was identified in an ST11-type clinical isolate of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae from China. Notably, KPC-204 exhibits resistance to both ceftazidime-avibactam and carbapenems. Genetic analysis revealed that blaKPC-204 was located on a highly mobile IncFII/IncR plasmid within a complex genetic structure that facilitates its spread. Functional analysis, achieved through cloning into E. coli DH5α, validates KPC-204's contribution to increased resistance to ceftazidime-avibactam. The kinetic parameters showed that KPC-204 exhibited similar affinity to KPC-2 toward ceftazidime and reduced sensitivity to avibactam. Mating experiments demonstrated the resistance's transmissibility. This investigation underscores the evolving diversity of KPC variants affecting ceftazidime-avibactam resistance, highlighting the necessity for continuous monitoring.

We have analysed the death and recovery rate of Covid-19 disease progression. From the analysis, we have argued that the pandemic is over in certain countries (labelled as group-A) and for other countries (labelled as group-B) the disease appears to remain as endemic. Taking into account the serological survey (sero-survey) test results obtained by certain groups and comparing it with herd immunity threshold value one can infer that the low number of infection for group-B is either due to acquired immunity by some previous infection by other coronavirus or due to innate immunity towards this infection. This effect is stronger for group-B to slow the progress of the disease to such an extent resulting in flattening of the disease progression curve compared to group-A.

Monkeypox (mpox) caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV) is currently the most common orthopoxvirus (OPXV) zoonotic disease. Since 2022, a multi-country outbreak of mpox has been reported with atypically rapid human-to-human transmission. The present work aimed to investigate the frequency of MPXV and OPXV DNA detection in different clinical materials taken at acute and convalescent phases of the infection in Bulgarian patients. A total of 181 clinical samples from 42 Bulgarian patients with possible mpox infections were tested. Screening for MPXV DNA (F3L gene) and OPXV DNA (rpo18 gene) were performed by real-time PCR assays. Of all tested patients six (14%) were confirmed with mpox infection. MPXV DNA was detected in 23/181 (12,71%) and OPXV DNA in 20/181 (11,05%) clinical samples. All confirmed patients were men who have sex with men, aged 23 to 44 (at an average age of 35,17±7,91 years) and two of them were HIV positive. The commonest clinical features of patients were fever (5/6), vesicular-pustular rash: perianal (6/6), penile (4/6), and limbs (4/6). MPXV DNA was found with the greatest frequency in specimens of vesicle contents and nasal/oropharyngeal swabs in 6/6 and 5/6. OPXV DNA mainly was detected in vesicle contents (6/6), nasal/oropharyngeal swabs (4/6), and urine (4/6). In the collected follow-up samples, MPXV DNA was detected in the highest percentage in the specimen's vesicle contents (6/6) and urine (6/6) and not demonstrated in samples of feces and saliva. The laboratory surveillance of MPXV is critical to contain the outbreak and to elucidate the new fast transmission of the virus.

This review examines the effects of lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) on general and oral health. The effects of lingonberry are based on the vitamins, minerals, fibers and polyphenolic compounds it contains. Lingonberry's bioactive substances have a diverse range of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiproteolytic, anticarcinogenic and antioxidant properties. Research results suggest that lingonberries can have a positive effect on human health. Berries, lingonberry juice/lingonberry nectar/fermented lingonberry juice and polyphenol fractions have been used in clinical studies. Lingonberries balance post-meal blood sugar, free fatty acids and insulin levels. Fermented lingonberry juice reduces Streptococcus mutans, Candida and periodontal pathogen counts, but is probiotic because it favors growth of Lactobacilli. In addition, it increases saliva secretion and thus lowers the risk of oral infections. It lowers the clinical parameters of periodontitis and the active matrix metalloprotease-8, reducing the low-grade inflammation associated with periodontal diseases. More studies on humans are needed.

This paper examines interlinkages and hedging opportunities between nine major cryptocurrencies for the period between 30 September 2015 and 4 June 2020, which notably includes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak lasting from early 2020 through the end of the sample period. The results of dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) analysis using a minimum connectedness approach show a high degree of correlation between cryptocurrencies throughout the sample period. However, the correlations reach their minimum values during the COVID-19 pandemic, which indicates that cryptocurrencies acted as a hedge or safe haven during the stressful period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The weight of cryptocurrencies was significantly reduced and their hedging effectiveness varied greatly during the pandemic, which indicates that investors’ preferences changed during the COVID-19 period.

The Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak is becoming pandemic with the highest mortality in people with associated comorbidities. These RNA viruses containing four structural proteins usually use spike protein to enter the host cell. It has been demonstrated that Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) ,as a part of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), acts as a host receptor for the virus which is the main target of therapeutic approaches. However, medications acting on RAAS can lead to serious complications especially in people with diabetes and hypertension. To avoid this, other potential treatment modalities should be used in COVID-19 patients with associated comorbidities.

Mammarenavirus Wenzhouense (WENV) is broadly distributed in Asia, while the he dynamics process of WENV infection remains unclear. A field derived strain of WENV was used to inoculate Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats by intramuscular injection, the process of virus infection was de-tected by controlling time for 28 days. Viral RNA became detectable in the blood at 3 d pi, and remained detectable for about 12 d. In most organ tissues, viral RNA peaked at 7 d pi, then began to decline by 14 d, however remained detectable in intestine and brain tissues at 21 and 28 d pi. Virus shedding had been detected from fecal samples for 5 days from 6 to 11 d pi using qRT-PCR, and was recovered from feces collected at 8 d pi. Horizontal contact infection occurred among cage-mates at 14 and 21 d pi. Antibodies against the nucleocapsid were detected at 5 dpi, next increased and persisted until the end of experiment. The results enabled to discriminate the kinetic of viremic response, virus shedding in feces and horizontal transmission, as well as the potential sites for WENV replication or maintenance of the virus in nature.

A prospective clinical-epidemiological study was conducted to evaluate the dynamics of biomarkers in hospitalized patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 (according to the National Institute of Health severity scale) treated with Anakinra, compared to those receiving standard treatment. The study included 65 patients with a mean age of 75.51±9.54 years, ranging from 44 to 99 years. Among the study participants, 38 (58.5%) were male and 27 (41.5%) were female. The patients were divided into two groups: control group (standard treatment): 24 patients (36.9%) and target group (Anakinra treatment): 41 patients (63.1%). The results showed a significant relationship between the dynamics of leukocytes, ASAT, LDH, D-dimer, ferritin, and IL-6 and the administration of Anakinra. In the control group, no significant dynamics were observed in leukocyte count, D-dimer, ferritin, or IL-6. A statistically significant decrease in ASAT and LDH values in the control group was noted only on Day 7. In the Anakinra group, significantly (or with borderline statistical significance, p&lt;0.1) lower mean values were observed for leukocytes, NLR, D-dimer, ferritin, and IL-6 on Days 3 and 7 compared to the control group. Additionally, significantly lower CRP values were detected in the Anakinra group on Day 7 compared to the control group.

Early detection, isolation, and management of COVID-19 patients are crucial to contain the current pandemic. The CDC in USA recently included "sudden loss of taste (dysgeusia/ageusia) and smell (anosmia/hyposmia)” as symptoms of COVID-19. If these symptoms are reliable forerunner symptoms of COVID-19, then it may facilitate early detection and containment of the disease. Hence, we systematically evaluated the contemporary evidence on dysgeusia and anosmia as trigger symptoms in COVID-19. Ovid MEDLINE, EBSCO host, and Web of Science databases were searched between December 25, 2019-May 30, 2020.Of the 13 identified records, eight (totaling 11,054 COVID-19 patients), were included, as per the selection criteria. The studies emanated mostly from the European community, as well as China, the USA, and Iran. In total, anosmia and dysgeusia symptoms were present in 74.9 % and 81.3% ambulatory as well as hospitalized, mild-to-severe cases of COVID-19 patients, respectively. The European, US, and Iran data indicate that olfactory, and gustatory symptoms appear prior to general COVID-19 symptoms in a majority of the patients. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review analyzing the prevalence of chemosensory dysfunction in COVID-19. Further, studies are essential to evaluate their utility as harbingers of COVID-19 onset, and to establish clinical practice guidelines.

Introduction: The disease caused by Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) was initially described in December 2019. Severe acute respiratory syndrome type 2 (Sars-Cov-2) is responsible for an important multisystem inflammatory spectrum. Cardiovascular conditions have been reported with an estimated frequency of 8-28%. In this context, transthoracic echocardiography associated with the analysis of the two-dimensional Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) of the left ventricle derived from Speckle Tracking emerges as a promising modality. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the applicability of GLS and segmental deformity assessment in detecting subclinical myocardial dysfunction in patients that recovered from COVID-19 infection. Methods: The observational study involved 18 patients (mean age 52 years) with recent evidence of COVID-19 infection that underwent detailed echocardiographic evaluation with GLS, and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) according to segmental assessment results. The degree of correlation between the methods was analyzed and a systematic literature review was also conducted. Results: The mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 57.50 ± 9.98%. Only 16.6% of patients had reduced LVEF. The average GLS was – 18.70 ± 3.54% and in 44% of cases only one myocardial segment was affected, particularly the inferolateral basal. CMR revealed inflammatory cardiomyopathy. Discussion: Subclinical myocardial involvement is associated with major adverse cardiac events. Literature review supports the use of GLS for detecting early cardiac involvement. Conclusion: Speckle-tracking echocardiography has been shown to have clinical utility in a variety of settings and to offer superior prognostic value with a potential to enhance subclinical detection of myocardial changes in patients after COVID-19 infection.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by infection with the 2019 novel coronavirus 2 (2019-nCoV, now referred to as SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 has become a global pandemic since its outbreak at the end of Dec 2019. COVID-19 could lead to severe acute respiratory disease, especially to those who have reduced immunity. Binding of the viral Spike protein (S) to its receptor ACE2 (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2) on the surface of target cells has been proven to be key for virus entry and infection. Although ACE2 expression in the respiratory system is necessary for pneumonia infection by SARS-CoV-2, the regulation of ACE2 gene expression remains poorly investigated, especially for patients that are in pre-pathological conditions. Here, by analyzing The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we investigated the expression regulation of ACE2 in various kinds of primary epithelial cells from the respiratory system after varies of respiratory viruses infection such as influenza A virus (IFV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human rhinovirus (hRV). Our analyses reveal that infection of multiple kinds of respiratory viruses or influenza vaccines greatly increased ACE2 expression, suggesting that respiratory viruses infection could represent a high risk factor for developing COVID-19. We also found that the regulatory effect of influenza A virus on ACE2 expression is associated with activation of the interferon beta-induced pathway and viral RNA-activated host response. Together, our data provide a theoretical framework for clinical classification for SARS-CoV-2 infection susceptibility and could be used for future prevention and therapy treatment for COVID-19.

It is not established whether SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) patients with movement disorders, are at greater risk for more serious outcomes than the larger COVID-19 population beyond the susceptibility associated with greater age. We reviewed electronic health records and conducted telephone interviews to collect the demographics and clinical outcomes of patients seen at our Movement Disorders Center who tested positive for COVID-19 from 8 March 2020 through 6 June 2020. Thirty-six patients were identified, 23 men and 13 women, median age of 74.5 years. They primarily carried diagnoses of idiopathic Parkinson disease (n=22; 61%) and atypical parkinsonism (n=7; 19%) with the balance having other diagnoses. Twenty-seven patients (75%) exhibited alteration in mental status and fifteen (42%) had abnormalities of movement as common manifestations of COVID-19; in 61% and 31%, these were the presenting symptoms of the disease. 67% of patients in our cohort required hospitalization, and the mortality rate was 39%.. These data demonstrate that in patients with movement disorders, the likelihood of hospitalization and death after contracting COVID-19 was substantially greater than in the general population. Patients with movement disorders frequently presented with altered mental status, generalized weakness, or worsening mobility but not anosmia.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2/2019-nCoV) infection is an emerging pandemic. The virus binds to angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and TMPRSS2 which are abundantly expressed on various human cells including lung epithelial cells and intestinal cells and the virus can infect these cells. Currently no specific treatments or vaccines are available for this disease. A per oral live attenuated vaccine can be beneficial in SARS-Cov-2 infection because the attenuated virus initially infects the gut, stimulates the mucosa associated immune system sparing the respiratory system during the initial immune response. The live virus can also spread in the community boosting herd immunity.

Malaria parasites increase their host erythrocyte’s permeability to obtain essential nutrients from plasma and facilitate intracellular growth. In the human P. falciparum pathogen, this increase is mediated by the plasmodial surface anion channel (PSAC) and has been linked to CLAG3, as encoded by one member of the conserved clag multigene family. Whether paralogs encoded by other clag genes also contribute to PSAC formation or serve unrelated roles remains unknown. Here, we generated transfectant lines carrying epitope-tagged versions of each CLAG. Each paralog colocalized with CLAG3, with concordant trafficking via merozoite rhoptries to the host erythrocyte membrane of newly-invaded erythrocytes. Each also exists within infected cells in at least two forms: an alkaline-extractable soluble form and a form integral to the host membrane. Like CLAG3, CLAG2 has a variant region cleaved by extracellular protease but CLAG8 and CLAG9 are protease-resistant. Paralog knockout lines, generated through CRISPR/Cas9 transfection, exhibited uncompromised growth in PGIM, a modified medium with more physiological nutrient levels; this finding is in marked contrast to a recently reported CLAG3 knockout parasite. CLAG2 and CLAG8 knockout lines exhibited compensatory increases in transcription of remaining clags and associated rhoph genes, yielding increased PSAC-mediated uptake to specific solutes. We also report distinct transport properties of these knockout lines, suggesting partially overlapping roles of CLAG paralogs in PSAC activity. We propose that the nutrient channel pore is formed by a higher order assembly of CLAG proteins at the host membrane.

Background. Until now, cost of allergy treatment in insured public health care system and non-insured self-financing private health care system in Indonesia has not been well documented and published, as well as the cost of allergy treatment with subcutaneous immunotherapy. Objective. To evaluate the clinical and cost benefits of allergic rhinitis treatment in children with subcutaneous immunotherapy in non-insured self-financing private health care system. Methods. A retrospective cohort study conducted from 2015 until 2020, compared clinical improvement and health care costs over 18 months in newly diagnosed AR children who received SCIT versus matched AR control subjects who did not receive SCIT, with each group consisting of 1,098 subjects Results. Decrease of sp-HDM-IgE level (kU/ml) from 20.5 + 8.75 kU/ml to 12.1 + 3.07 kU/ml had been observed in the SCIT group. To reduce the symptom score of allergic rhinitis by 1.0 with SCIT it costs IDR 21,753,062.7 per child, for non SCIT it costs IDR 104,147,878.0 per child. Meanwhile, to reduce the medication score (MS) by 1.0 with SCIT it costs Rp. 17,024,138.8 while with non SCIT it costs Rp. 104,147,878.0. Meanwhile, to lower combination symptoms and medication score (CSMS) by 1.0, with SCIT it costs IDR 9,550,126.6, while with non SCIT it costs IDR 52,073,938.9. Conclusion. In conclusion, this first Indonesia-based study demonstrates substantial health care cost savings associated with SCIT for children with AR in an uninsured private health care system and provides strong evidence for the clinical benefits and cost-savings benefits of AR treatment in children.

The risk of a fatal outcome was 41% in unvaccinated patients (p = 0.713), which increased by 2.66% with co-infection with two pathogens (p = 0.342) and by 26% with three pathogens (p = 0.005). Additionally, 50% of ICU patients had a triple infection, compared with only 1.3% in the inpatient unit (p = 0.0029). The risk of death and/or ICU admission was 12 times higher (p = 0.042) with an additional pathogen and increased by 95% (p = 0.003) with a third concomitant pathogen. Regular multiplex testing is important for prompt treatment and targeted antibiotic use.

Background: Micronutrients has roles in strengthening and maintaining immune function, but its supplementation and/or deficiency effects on respiratory tract infections are inconclusive. This review aims to systematically assess the associations between micronutrient supplementation or deficiency, with novel coronavirus incidence and disease severity. Methods: Systematic literature searches conducted in 5 electronic databases identified 751 unique studies, of which 33 studies (5 supplementation studies, 1 supplementation and deficiency study, and 27 deficiency studies) were eventually included in this review. Proportions of incidence and severity outcomes in each group, and adjusted summary statistics with their relevant 95% confidence intervaIs (CI) were extracted. Data from 19 studies were pooled in meta-analysis using the generic inverse variance method. Findings: A total of 360,346 patients across 16 countries, with a mean age between 32 and 87.7 years, were involved across 33 studies. All studies were on COVID-19 infections. In individuals without micronutrient deficiency, there was a significant reduction on odds of COVID-19 incidence (pooled OR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.78), and ICU admissions or severe/critical disease onset (pooled OR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.89). Insignificant protective effects were observed on other outcome measures – mortality, ICU admission, progression to respiratory-related complications, severe/critical disease onset or requiring respiratory support and hospitalization rate. Conclusion: The absence of micronutrient deficiency significantly reduced COVID-19 incidence and clinical deterioration in hospitalized patients. Usage of micronutrients as prophylaxis and complementary supplement in therapeutic management of COVID-19 patients may be a promising and cost-effective approach warranting in-depth investigation.

Apis mellifera, especially weak ones, are highly vulnerable to Carpoglyphus lactis mites, which can rapidly infest and consume stored pollen, leading to weakened colonies and potentially colony collapse. This study aimed to ascertain and investigate the prevalence of this mite in honeybee colonies across 9 provinces in the Republic of Korea (ROK). A total of 615 honeybee colonies were collected, from 66 apiaries during the spring and 58 apiaries during the summer of 2023. A 1,242 bp segment of the the Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene was amplified using the polymerase chain reaction method. The detection levels of C. lactis in the honeybees were compared between winter and summer. Based on the COI sequence analysis, the nucleotide sequence similarity of C. lactis mites isolated in the ROK with those from China (NC048990.1) was found to be 99.5%, and with those from the United Kingdom (KY922482.1) was 99.3%. This study is the first report of C. lactis in Korean apiaries. The findings in this study demonstrate a significantly higher detection rate in winter, which is 4.1 times greater than that in summer (p &lt; 0.001). Furthermore, the results underscore the usefulness of molecular diagnostic techniques for detecting C. lactis mites.

In the present study, a multilayer high barrier thin blown film based on a polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) blend with polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), and composed of four layers, including a cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) barrier layer and an electrospun poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) hot-tack layer, was characterized in terms of surface roughness, surface tension, migration, mechanical and peel performance, barrier properties and disintegration rate. The results showed a material with a smooth surface. The overall migration test showed that the material was suitable for its use as a food contact layer. The addition of the CNC interlayer had a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the system, drastically reducing the elongation at break and, thus, the flexibility of the material. However, the material retained its elastic modulus and tensile strength. The CNC coating had a negative impact on the peeling strength, weakening the inherently strong interlayer adhesivity of the electrospun PHBV fibers. The multilayer had a good barrier to water vapor, and especially to oxygen, with its permeance reduced by up to a 90 % when the CNC layer was present. Finally, the monolayer blend film disintegrated in a period of less than 55 days in a laboratory-scale composting experiment, while the multilayer system disintegrated in 60 days. Overall, the multilayer system formed a fully compostable structure with great potential for use in food packaging applications.

Background: We evaluate the genetic and phenotypic features of a cohort of 12 Italian patients affected by Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) associated with RP1 sequence variants.; Methods: Retrospective, single center study (Careggi Hospital, Florence), including a cohort of twelve Italian patients (Five male and seven female) affected by RP carrying pathogenic variants of the RP1 gene. A complete ophthalmic assessment and pedigree analysis was conducted with focus on the onset of disease symptoms, the patient’s age at the first diagnosis, the follow up duration and the possible presence of comorbidities; Results: The mean age at onset of symptoms was 31,0 ± 24,1 years old, with a mean follow-up period of 9,1± 2,4 years. The main symptoms at presentation were hemeralopia and visual field constriction. Fundus evaluation revealed a classic type of RP. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Electroretinogram (ERG), and visual field confirmed in most of the cases the typical features of classic retinitis pigmentosa.; (4) Conclusions: This single-center cohort of Italian patients provided information on the clinical and genetic features of RP1-associated RP. By comprehensively clarifying the genetic variations and their associated clinical manifestations, we can better tailor therapeutic interventions aimed at targeting specific genetic abnormalities. This ultimately promises to improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with RP-associated RP1.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are causing significant damages to many nations. For mitigating its risk, Japan’s Prime Minister called on all elementary, junior high and high schools nationwide to close beginning March 1, 2020. However, its effectiveness in decreasing disease burden has not been investigated. Methods: We used daily data on the report of COVID-19 and coronavirus infection incidence in Japan until March 31, 2020. Time series analysis were conducted using Bayesian method. Local linear trend models with interventional effect were constructed for number of newly reported cases of COVID-19, including asymptomatic infections. We considered that the effects of intervention start to appear 9 days after the school closure; i.e., on March 9. Results: The intervention of school closure did not appear to decrease the incidence of coronavirus infection. If the effectiveness of school closure began on March 9, mean coefficient α for effectiveness of the measure was calculated to be 0.08 (95% credible interval -0.36 to 0.65), and the actual reported cases were more than predicted, yet with rather wide credible interval. Sensitivity analyses using different dates also showed similar results. Conclusions: School closure carried out in Japan did not show the effectiveness to mitigate the transmission of novel coronavirus infection.

We recently demonstrated the effectiveness of long-term treatment with rifaximin and the probiotic VSL#3 at improving urogenital and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with both chronic inflammatory prostatitis (IIIa prostatitis) and diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), relative to patients with IBS-D alone. Because low-grade inflammation of the intestine and prostate may be one of the reasons for co-developing both IIIa prostatitis and IBS-D, we designed the present study to once again evaluate the efficacy of combined rifaximin and VSL#3 treatment in patients affected by IIIa prostatitis plus IBS-D, but we also measured seminal plasma pro-inflammatory (IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines before and after treatment. We consecutively enrolled 124 patients with IIIa prostatitis and IBS-D (diagnosed using the Rome III criteria). Patients were randomized into two groups: group A (n=64) was treated with rifaximin (seven days per month for three months) followed by VSL#3, and group B (n=60) was treated with a placebo. At the beginning of the study and after three months of treatment, all patients completed NIH-CPSI and IBS-SSS questionnaires to score the severity of their urogenital and gastrointestinal symptoms, and we measured seminal plasma levels of IL-6 and IL-10 using ELISA. We defined patients who improved following the treatment as those with a ≥6-point reduction in their NIH-CPSI score or ≥50-point reduction in their IBS-SSS score. By the end of the intervention, 68.7% and 62.5% of patients from group A reported improved NIH-CPSI and IBS-SSS scores, respectively, compared to only 3.3% and 5% of the placebo group. Group A patients also had significantly lower mean seminal plasma levels of IL-6 (11.3 vs 32.4 pg/mL) and significantly higher mean levels of IL-10 (7.9 vs 4.4 pg/mL) relative to baseline, whereas levels of IL-6 and Il-10 did not change in the placebo group. The co-occurrence of two clinical phenotypes (IBS-D plus IIIa prostatitis) result in increased intestinal inflammation and altered immune activation, both of which can be balanced by treatment with rifaximin and VSL#3.

The research objective was to determine the problem of bullying in teenagers. The method used is a qualitative approach with literature study methods and a quantitative approach with the e-survey method. The results showed that bullying was rife in the school environment with teenagers aged 12-15. Verbal bullying occurs the most because it is the easiest to do. Bullying occurs with a group of people against one person because of peer influence. Family factors, school, the influence of friends, environmental conditions, and television shows influence bullying. Character Education can help overcome bullying in teenagers because it teaches the value of virtue in daily activities if given early and not during teenager. The conclusion found in this activity is that teenagers can become bullies because of family, school, peer influence, social conditions, and television broadcasts. Character Education is more effective if it is implemented since early childhood education and all relevant stakeholders must be actively involved in providing the Character Education.

Severe inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is an autosomal genetic condition linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The significance of heterozygous, milder deficiency variants (Pi*M, Pi*S, Pi*Z) is less clear. We studied AATD genotypes in 145 children (up to 72 months old) with assessed wheezing severity using the Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure (BCCH PRAM score). A control group of 74 children without airway obstruction was included. AAT concentration and Pi phenotype were determined from dry blood spot samples using nephelometry and real-time PCR; PiS and PiZ alleles were identified by isoelectrofocusing. Among the wheezers, the Pi*S allele incidence was 2.07% (3 cases) and Pi*Z allele was 6.9% (10 cases). The Pi*Z allele frequency was higher in wheezers compared to controls (44.8% vs. 20.27%) and the general Lithuanian population (44.8% vs. 13.6%) and was similar to adult COPD patients in Lithuania: Pi*S 10.3% vs. 15.8% and Pi*Z 44.8% vs. 46.1%. No association was found between AAT genotypes and wheezing severity. Finding that wheezer children exhibit a frequency of Z* and S* alleles like that found in adults with COPD suggests a potential genetic predisposition that links early wheezing in children to the development of COPD in adulthood. Larger cohort studies are needed to confirm this finding.

Antibiotic resistance is a pressing global and planetary health challenge. Links between climate change, antibiotic use and the emergence of antibiotic resistance have been well documented, but less attention has been given to the impact(s) of earth systems on specific bacterial livestock diseases at a more granular level. Understanding the precise impacts of climate change on livestock health – and in turn the use of antibiotics to address that ill-health – is important in providing an evidence base to tackle such impacts and to develop practical, implementable and locally acceptable solutions within and beyond current antibiotic stewardship programmes. In this paper, we set out the case for better integration of earth scientists and their specific disciplinary skill set (specifically, problem-solving with incomplete/fragmentary data; the ability to work across four dimensions and at the interface between the present and deep/geological time) into planetary health research. We then discuss a methodology that makes use of risk mapping, a common methodology in earth science but less frequently used in health science, to map disease risk against changing climatic conditions at a granular level. This will enable predictions of future disease risk and risk impacts based on predicted future climate conditions, and thus provide an evidence base for planetary health activists to influence policy and develop mitigations. Our case study – of climate conditions’ impact on livestock health in Karnataka, India – clearly evidences the benefit of integrating earth scientists into planetary health research.

Background: The coexistence of HIV infection and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) presents a significant public health concern due to the increased risk of tuberculosis (TB) reactivation and progression to active disease. The multicenter observational cohort study, TUBHIVIT, conducted in Italy from 2017 to 2023, aimed to assess the prevalence of LTBI among people living with HIV (PLHIV) and their outcomes following LTBI screening and therapy initiation. Methods: We performed a prospective study in 5 referral centers for HIV care in Italy. PLHIV who consented to participate underwent QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus and clinical, microbiological, and radiological assessments to exclude subclinical tuberculosis, as opportune. PLHIV diagnosed with LTBI that started chemoprophylaxis were followed until the ending of therapy. Results: A total of 1105 PLHIV were screened for LTBI using the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test, revealing a prevalence of 3.4% of positive results (38/1105). Non-Italy-born individuals exhibited a significantly higher likelihood of testing positive. Thirty-one were diagnosed with LTBI, 1 showed active subclinical TB, 6 were lost to follow-up before discriminating between latent and active TB. Among PLHIV diagnosed with LTBI, 83.9% (26/31) started chemoprophylaxis. Most individuals received 6-9 months of isoniazid-based therapy. Of the 26 PLHIV commencing chemoprophylaxis, 18 (69.2%) completed the therapy, while 3 discontinued it and 5 were still on treatment at the time of the analysis. Adverse events were observed in two cases, while in one case the patient refused to continue the treatment.

Coronavirus disease 2019 restrictions impacted Canadians' daily living, especially those at higher risk of compromised health conditions. This study aimed to describe the physical, psychological, and social well-being of adults with disabilities, and older adults from May to June 2020. An online survey was used to administer standardized measures of mobility, anxiety and depression, boredom, resilience, technology readiness, social support, social networks, and participation. Seventy-two participants were recruited, with a mean age (SD) of 61.2 (13.8). 69.4% of participants had a disability, and 51.4% were older adults. 27.8% and 16.7% of participants exceeded the anxiety and depression cut-off scores, respectively. Boredom and restriction in participation were experienced by 76.4% and 80.1% of participants, respectively. Participants' mean (SD) resilience and life space scores were 72.4 (14.0) and 51.9 (24.0), respectively. Individuals with disabilities have comparatively higher mean anxiety (5.5 to 3.3), depression (4.8 to 2.9), and boredom (92.2 to 72.3) scores than those without. Individuals with a disability had lower resilience (69.9 to 78.0) and felt more life space restrictions (45.4 to 67.6). Our findings revealed issues with anxiety, boredom, participation, and life space activity. This information may provide supporting evidence when creating policies to mitigate existent health and social inequities.

Coronaviruses are an extensive family of viruses that can cause disease in both animals and humans. The current classification of coronaviruses recognizes 39 species in 27 subgenera that belong to the family Coronaviridae. From those, at least seven coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections in humans. Four of these viruses can cause common cold-like symptoms, while others that infect animals can evolve and become infectious to humans. Three recent examples of this viral jumps include SARS CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS CoV-2 virus. They are responsible for causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and the most recently discovered coronavirus disease during 2019 (COVID-19).COVID-19, a respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020. The rapid spread of the disease has taken the scientific and medical community by surprise. Latest figures from 14 April 2020 show more than 2 million people had been infected with the virus, causing more than 120,000 deaths in over 210 countries worldwide. The large amount of information we receive every day concerning this new disease is so abundant and dynamic that medical staff, health authorities, academics and the media are not able to keep up with this new pandemic. In order to offer a clear insight of the extensive literature available, we have conducted a comprehensive literature review of the SARS CoV-2 Virus and the Coronavirus Diseases 2019 (COVID-19).

Conventional cancer clinical trials can be time-consuming and expensive, often yielding results with limited applicability to real-world scenarios and presenting challenges for patient participation. Real-world data (RWD) studies offer a promising solution to address evidence gaps and provide essential information about the effects of cancer treatments in real-world settings. Defining RWD based on its original intent, which is the collection of data at the point of care for clinical purposes, can distinguish it from conventional clinical trial data. RWD can be generated using experimental designs that resemble those used in conventional clinical trials, but with several advantages, such as improved efficiency and a better balance between internal and external validity. RWD can support pharmacovigilance, insights into disease progression, and the development of external control groups. Prospective RWD collection enables evidence generation based on pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) that support randomized study designs and expand clinical research to the point of care. To ensure the quality of real-world studies, it is crucial to implement auditable data abstraction methods and develop new incentives to capture clinically relevant data electronically at the point of care. The treatment landscape is constantly evolving, with the integration of front-line immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), either alone or in combination with chemotherapy, affecting subsequent treatment lines. Real-world effectiveness and safety in underrepresented populations, such as the elderly, patients with poor performance status (PS), hepatitis, or human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients, are still largely unexplored. Similarly, the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of these innovative agents are important considerations in the real world.

Human civilizations are under enormous threats due to the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) originated from Wuhan, China. The asymptomatic carriers are the potential spreads of this novel virus. Since, guaranteed antiviral treatments have not been available in the market so far, it is really challenging to fight against this contagious disease. To save the living mankind, it is urgent to know more about how the virus transmits itself from one to another quite rapidly and how we can predict future infections. Scientists and Researchers are working hard in investigating to understand its high infection rate and transmission process. One possible way to know is to use our existing COVID-19 infection data and prepare a useful model to predict the future trend. Mathematical modelling is very useful to understand the basic principle of COVID-19 transmission and provide necessary guidelines for future prediction. Here, we have reviewed 9 distinct commonly used models based on Mathematical implementations for COVID-19 transmission and dig into the deep head to head comparison of each model. Finally, we have discussed interesting key behaviour of each model, relevant upcoming important issues, challenges and future directions.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome novel coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the global pandemic as COVID-19, which is the most notorious global public health crisis in the last 100 years. SARS-CoV-2 is composed of four structural proteins and several non-structured proteins. The multi-facet nucleocapsid (N) protein is the major component of structural proteins of CoVs, However, there are no dedicated genomic, sequences and structural analyses focusing on potential roles of N protein. Hence, there is an urgent requirement of a detailed study on N protein of SARS-CoV-2. Herein, we are presenting a comprehensive study on N protein from SARS-CoV-2. We have identified seven motifs conserved in the three major domains namely N-terminal domain, linker regions and the C-terminal domains. Out of seven motifs, six motifs are conserved across different members of coronaviridae, while motif4 is specific for SARS CoVs with potential amyloidogenic properties. Additionally, we report this protein has large patches of disordered regions flanking with these seven motifs. These motifs are hubs of epitopes with 67 experimentally verified epitopes from related viruses. We report the presence of three nuclear localization signals (NLS1-NLS3 mapped to 36-41, 256-26, and 363-389 residues, respectively) and two nuclear export signals (NES1-NLS2 from 151-161 and 217-230 residues, respectively) in the N protein of SARS-CoV-2. These deciphered two Q-patches as Q-patch1 and Q-patch2, mapped in the regions of 266-306, and 361-418 residues, which potentially help in the aggregation of the viral proteins along with ²¹⁹LALLLLDR²²⁶ patch. Additionally, we have identified 14 antiviral drugs potentially binding to seven motifs of N-proteins using docking-based drug discovery methods.

Italy was the first country in Europe which imposed control measures of travel restrictions, quarantine and contact precautions to tackle the epidemic spread of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in all its regions. While such efforts are still ongoing, uncertainties regarding SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility and ascertainment of cases make it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of restrictions. Here, we employed a Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered-Dead (SEIRD) model to assess SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics, working on the number of reported patients in intensive care unit (ICU) and deaths in Sicily (Italy), from 24 February to 13 April. Overall, we obtained a good fit between estimated and reported data, with a small fraction of unreported SARS-CoV-2 cases (19.5%; 95%CI=0%-34.7%) before 10 March lockdown. Interestingly, we estimated that the first set of restrictions reduced transmission rate in the community by 42% (95%CI=38%-46%), and that more stringent measures adopted on 23 March succeeded to drastically curb the transmission rate by 84% (95%CI=80%-88%). Thus, our estimates delineated the characteristics of SARS-CoV2 epidemic before restrictions taking into account unreported data. Further modeling after the adoption of control measures, moreover, indicated that restrictions reduced SARS-CoV2 transmission considerably.

Background Critical patients with novel coronavirus pneumonia ( COVID-19) have worse outcome and high mortality. However, the histopathology of critical patient with COVID-19 remains undisclosed. Methods We performed the whole lung biopsy, and described the pathological changes of critical COVID-19 patient done with transplant by HE staining, immunohistochemistry and special staining observed under the microscopy. Findings The whole lungs displayed diffuse congestive appearance and partly haemorrhagic necrosis on gross examination. The haemorrhagic necrosis was prominently present in outer edge of the right lower lung. The cut surfaces of the lung displayed severe congestive and haemorrhagic changes. The main pathological changes showed massive pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, and partly hyaline degeneration, variable degrees of hemorrhagic pulmonary infarction. Small vessels hyperplasia, vessel wall thickening, lumen stenosis, occlusion and microthrombosis formation. Focal monocytes, lymphocytes and plasma cells infiltrating into pulmonary interstitium. Bronchiolitis and alveolitis with proliferation, atrophy, desquamation and squamous metaplasia of epithelial cells. Atrophy, vacuolar degeneration, proliferation, desquamation and squamous metaplasia in alveolar epithelial cells. Alveolar cavity congestion was prominent, and contained mucus, edema fluid, desquamated epithelial cells, and inflammatory cells. We also found several multinucleate giant cells and intracytoplasmic viral inclusion bodies. Special stains including Masson stain, sirius red staining, reticular fibers staining indicated massive pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. Immunohistochemistry showed positive for immunity cells including CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD79a, CD5, CD38 and CD68. Interpretation We demonstrate the pathological findings of critical patient with COVID-19, which might provide a deep insight of the pathogenesis and severity of this disease.

Background: Inflammatory plays critical role in myocardial infarction as a critical process in the development of heart failure, involving the development of cardiac fibrosis. Colchicine is a well-established anti-inflammatory drug, but its scientific application in controlling post-acute myocardial infarction remodelling processes has not been established. IL-10, a key cytokine in modulating inflammatory responses, underscoring its potential as a crucial therapeutic target of colchicine. Objectives: To explore the protective role of IL-10 modulated by colchicine in myocardial healing and repair following AMI, particularly cardiac fibrosis. Materials and Methods: The predicted protein of Colchicine was assessed using WAY2DRUG PASS as probability active value. Proteins associated with Colchicine, cardiac fibrosis and acute myocardial infarction were analysed with DisGeNET and Open Target databases. Analysis and visualization of protein-protein interactions were conducted using STRING and Cytoscape. A 3T3 cell line treated with CoCl2 was used to mimic hypoxic. HIF-1α and IL-10 expression were measured by flow cytometry and analysed using a one-way ANOVA test. This observational clinical trial examined acute myocardial infarction patients undergoing immediate and delayed primary percutaneous coronary interventions. Subjects were randomized into control groups receiving placebo and intervention groups treated with Colchicine. Assessments occurred at 24 hours and five days after the intervention. IL-10 expression in the clinical trial was measured by ELISA assay and analysed using a T-test. Results: Colchicine demonstrates promising bioactivity in treating acute myocardial infarction, with notable probability active values as a tubulin antagonist (0.744), beta-tubulin antagonist (0.673), and NOS2 inhibitor (0.529). Its primary action targets IL-10, with protein-protein interactions analysis indicating interactions between IL-10 and key inflammatory mediators—IL-1β, IFN-γ, CCL2, TNF, and TGF-β1—during acute myocardial infarction and cardiac fibrosis. Hypoxic conditions in the CoCl2-induced 3T3 cell model show significantly elevated HIF-1α compared to controls (p&lt;0.0001). Acute myocardial infarction patients were predominantly from high-risk populations, with notable smoking prevalence in the early Colchicine group (72%). Hypertension prevalence was significantly different, with 67.31% in the late Colchicine group compared to 38% in the early Colchicine and 39.80% in the early placebo groups. Both early and late Colchicine groups exhibited a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Colchicine use, either early or late, did not significantly alter major adverse cardiovascular events incidence compared to placebo (p&gt;0.05). However, Colchicine significantly increased IL-10 expression in CoCl2-treated cells (p&lt;0.0001) and in acute myocardial infarction patients within five days (p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: Colchicine may bolster the anti-inflammatory response post-myocardial infarction by activating IL-10 pathways in fibroblasts and in clinical settings, potentially reducing major adverse cardiovascular events. Further investigation into broader aspects of this pathway, particularly in cardiac fibroblasts, is required.

Background. Recent studies revealed that differentiation of valvular interstitial cell into myofibroblasts played an important role in pathological valve remodeling in rheumatic valvular disease. Objective. To investigate effects of atorvastatin, olmesartan, and resveratrol on Transforming Growth Factor β1-induced fibrosis. Methods. Valvular interstitial cell was isolated from 12-weeks male New Zealand rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Culture cells was divided into 4 groups, control group, group I (0.5 mg/mL Atorvastatin), group II (100 nmol/L Olmesartan), group III (50 μM/L Resveratrol) and group IV (combinations). All group were exposed to 100 nM Transforming Growth Factor β1 for 24 hours. Results. Immunochemical staining demonstrated that cells were completely differentiated into myofibroblasts with mean expression of α-smooth muscle actin 24522.64±4566.994. Atorvastatin, olmesartan, resveratrol, and its combination significantly reduced α-smooth muscle actin expression (6823±1735.3, 6942.7±2455.9, 14176.2±3343.3, 5051.8±1612.2 respectively (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion. Our data showed atorvastatin, olmesartan, resveratrol, and its combination significantly reduce Transforming Growth Factor β1-induced valvular fibrosis.

This study delves into the dynamic field of medical education research, emphasizing the integration of research training within medical curricula. It seeks to understand the impact of such integration on the competencies of future medical professionals. The primary aim is to systematically categorize and analyze the current trends and future directions in medical education research. This involves assessing the influence of research training on medical students' skills and the methodologies used in such research. Methods: The research employs an extensive bibliographic literature review across multiple databases. It classifies studies into categories like experiential or case studies, editorials, and original research articles. This classification is based on criteria such as geographical location, research objectives, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies. Results: Findings reveal a diverse landscape in medical education research, with a significant emphasis on research training. The research showcases varying methodologies and approaches used globally, highlighting the thematic focus and geographical distribution of these studies. Conclusion: Medical education research is a globally expansive and evolving field. It underscores the importance of continuous investigation, particularly focusing on integrating research elements at curricular levels and exploring innovative educational strategies. The study also points out potential gaps in research, especially in underrepresented regions, indicating directions for future research efforts.

Background: Osteoporosis and bone fractures affect health and quality of life. Since bone disease is multifactorial, identifying risk factors is key in prevention. There are multiple reports on how viral hepatitis especially chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and chronic hepatitis C (CHC) are affecting bone disease, but results vary. Here, we analyzed the potential association between CHB/CHC and osteoporosis or bone fractures in a large outpatient cohort in Germany. Methods: We included 3,136 outpatients with CHB and 15,608 matched non-hepatitis individuals as well as 2,867 outpatients with CHC and 14,335 matched non-hepatitis individuals from the Disease Analyzer Database between 2005 and 2022. The main outcome was the 5-year cumulative incidence of osteoporosis and bone fractures as a function of either CHB or CHC. Results: Within 5 years of the index date, 2.9% vs. 1.6% of patients with and without CHB were diagnosed with osteoporosis (p=0.001) and 1.0% vs. 0.4% were diagnosed with bone fractures (p<0.001). Moreover, 3.3% of CHC patients and 2.2% of individuals without hepatitis were diagnosed with osteoporosis (p=0.002). In Cox-regression analyses, CHB was significantly associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis (HR: 1.76) and fractures (HR:2.43) and CHC with osteoporosis (HR: 1.54). For both CHB and CHC, the association with osteoporosis was restricted to the female subgroup. Conclusion: CHB and CHC are associated with osteoporosis in women. CHB in male patients is associated with a higher risk of fractures. More research is are needed to understand the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.

Since the first coronavirus patient was identified in Bangladesh on March 8, the most controversial issue is about the exact level of the infection in Bangladesh. Conformity with the population density the number of COVID-19 tests is inadequate. As the number of tests increases, so does the number of infections, making it difficult to predict the spread of COVID-19 in Bangladesh. In this case, the unplanned initiatives are particularly responsible in other for unplanned measures, lack of public awareness, and lack of proper knowledge. In this case, the Ministry of Health has made three major mistakes, three important features of the medical system in Bangladesh have been mentioned. It is more effective to prevent COVID-19 by isolating the infected person by further testing COVID-19 until effective treatment is available and to provide adequate and effective masks and personal protective equipment (PPE). In this case, the COVID-19 testing kit invention has received a good response in many countries of the world. This study focuses on the comprehensive data verification, selection, and evaluation of COVID-19 in Bangladesh and its implications for the future, what to do to address and prevent the COVID-19 challenge, and effective treatment against the coronavirus (COVID-19). It is hopeful that the discussion of the material mentioned in this research paper will help to strike a balance between the government, citizens, and experts which will be feasible in improving the current situation in COVID-19 Bangladesh and reducing its severity.

Novel coronavirus infection is a recent infective agent that causes severe potentially fatal pneumonia. The clinical presentation includes asymptomatic infection, severe pneumonia, and acute respiratory failure. Data pertaining to the clinical presentation of solid organ transplant recipients are scarce. Two cases of novel coronavirus infection in two recipients of renal transplant with variable clinical presentations and outcomes are reported. The first patient presented with progressive respiratory symptoms, acute renal failure, and passed away, whereas the second one, although presented with respiratory tract symptoms and hypoxemia remained stable and exhibited an excellent clinical recovery despite recent reception of thymoglobulin induction. This paper reports rare cases of novel coronavirus infection in renal transplant recipients. For an enhanced insight of the novel coronavirus infection and acute kidney injury on the clinical presentation, severity, and outcome in solid organ transplant recipients, further investigations are required.

Introduction: COVID-19 is an unprecedented global public health emergency currently impacting India in an unprecedented manner. Aim of this study was to assess knowledge, awareness, perceptions and related factors of Indian dentists on COVID-19. Methodology: A cross-sectional, on-line questionnaire-based study was conducted over one week between 3rd May, 2020 to 10th May, 2020. The sample comprised 403 Indian dentists in solo, group practices and in the academic arena. The self-administered questionnaire assessed 1) knowledge/awareness on factors related to COVID-19 patient identification and symptomatology, 2) knowledge/awareness of COVID-19 transmission and 3) perceptions of COVID-19 history taking procedure. Statistical analyses were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences for Windows, version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY., USA). Frequency distributions and logistic regression analyses were used. Results: Indian dentists demonstrated an overall modest level of knowledge on identification of patients with COVID-19. Moreover, they had a high level of awareness of the COVID-19 transmission means, and the generally accepted procedural perceptions on patient history taking. However, there were some gaps in specific aspects of knowledge and perceptions. Those who were aged ≥ 30-years had a significantly higher level of knowledge of patient identification means than those who were < 30-years (OR=1.78:1.12-2.83); p=0.01. Moreover, specialized dentists were significantly knowledgeable of COVID-19 transmission means than the general dentists (OR=1.89:1.22-2.93; p=0.004). Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate identifiable gaps in knowledge/awareness and perceptions of COVID-19 in Indian dental professionals. These gaps should be fulfilled, at the earliest, due to the rising burden of COVID-19 in India, to ensure safe dental care delivery.

Introduction. Recent studies revealed that differentiation of valvular interstitial cell into myofibroblasts played an important role in pathological valve remodeling in rheumatic valvular disease. Objective. To investigate effects of atorvastatin, olmesartan, and resveratrol on Transforming Growth Factor β1-induced fibrosis. Methods. Valvular interstitial cell was isolated from 12-weeks male New Zealand rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Culture cells was divided into 4 groups, control group, group I (0.5 mg/mL Atorvastatin), group II (100 nmol/L Olmesartan), group III (50 μM/L Resveratrol) and group IV (combinations). All group were exposed to 100 nM Transforming Growth Factor β1 for 24 hours. Results. Immunochemical staining demonstrated that cells were completely differentiated into myofibroblasts with mean expression of α-smooth muscle actin 24522.64±4566.994. Atorvastatin, olmesartan, resveratrol, and its combination significantly reduced α-smooth muscle actin expression (6823±1735.3, 6942.7±2455.9, 14176.2±3343.3, 5051.8±1612.2 respectively (p<0.001). Conclusion. Our data showed atorvastatin, olmesartan, resveratrol, and its combination significantly reduce Transforming Growth Factor β1-induced valvular fibrosis.

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a serious haematologic condition that can be re-lated to various diseases, including tuberculosis (TB). The patient is a previously healthy 26-years-old man, originally from Western Africa, admitted to hospital for fever and weight loss. Given the results of computed tomography (CT) scan, ocular examination and microbiologic tests, a miliary TB with pulmonary, lymph nodal and ocular involvement was diagnosed. Following introduction of antitubercular treatment (ATT) an increase in inflammation indexes and severe pancytopenia were observed; at this point the patient presented six of eight diagnostic criteria for HLH and the diagnosis of HLH secondary to TB was raised. Therefore, HLH treatment with high dose of dexamethasone was started with a good clinical response. We performed a literature re-view of TB-related HLH, which shows a high mortality rate; ATT is necessary to ensure patient survival to remove the antigenic driver. Our patients developed HLH after initiation of ATT as a paradoxical reaction, that may be linked to the release of antigens due to the bactericidal effect of ATT.

Many patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) suffer from shortness of breath and severe chest pain. Here we report successful therapy of a patient with diagnosis of COVID-19, severe chest pain and significant shortness of breath, using radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT). The latter started seven days after beginning of symptoms and drug therapy without success, and involved daily application of 15.000 to 20.000 radial extracorporeal shock waves over the intercostal muscles as well as the paravertebral muscles of the thoracic and lumbar spine, diaphragm and flanks. Immediately after the first rESWT session the patient experienced significant pain relief and improvement of breathing. Four days later the pain had completely subsided and breathing was largely normalized. This type of noninvasive, non-pharmacologic treatment could help many COVID-19 patients or patients who still suffer from breathing problems weeks after having been infected with SARS-CoV-2, giving them back quality of life.

WHO was informed on 31 December 2019 of cases of unknown cause pneumonia in Wuhan City, China. On 7 January 2020 Chinese authorities reported a novel coronavirus as the cause and was temporarily labeled "2019-nCoV." Coronaviruses (CoV) are a wide family of viruses which cause diseases ranging from common cold to more serious illnesses. A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain not previously found in humans. Countries around the globe have stepped up their surveillance to quickly detect any new 2019-nCoV cases. Blockchain is developing into a safe and efficient network for secure data sharing in applications such as the financial industry, operations management, food industry, energy market, the Internet of Things and healthcare. In this paper, we are using blockchain technology as a mean to share authentic data, tracking of relevant information and help speed up the treatment process. At the same time it will preserve person’s identity. Timely deployment and suitable implementation of the proposed model have the opportunity to curb COVID-19 transmissions and associated mortality, especially in environments with inadequate access to testing facilities. This work will also facilitate in the treatment of other infectious diseases. Smart contract have been designed and implemented using the ethereum blockchain platform which has been presented in this paper. This work would facilitate multiple stakeholders who are involved within the medical system to curb the transmission of this disease.

Mouthparts are the main feeding organs of insects, which play vital roles in the feeding process. The morphology of insect mouthparts has greatly evolved according to different foods and feeding habits. Therefore, studying the structure of the mouthparts is the key to understanding their feeding mechanisms. Vibidia duodecimguttata is an important biological control agent for powdery fungus. In this study, the fine morphology of the mouthpart of V. duodecimguttata was studied by scanning electron microscopy. The basic components of mouthpart of V. duodecimguttata are similar to those of other ladybeetles, while the specific morphology of each part is different. In total, six kinds of sensilla were identified on mouthpart, and twelve types of sensilla were divided according to their morphology, length and distribution. In addition, two kinds of glandular structures were also found, perforated plates and cuticular pores. Finally, the morphological differences between mycetophagous and other feeding habits ladybeetles were compared, and the function of each kind of sensilla were discussed, which may lay a solid foundation for further understanding of the feeding mechanism of ladybirds.

The dermatological manifestations of Long Covid (LC) have languished in the shadows of chronic fatigue and brain fog. Yet they are all linked by gut dysbiosis and the cytokine triad of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. The gut microbiome common not only to LC, psoriasis, AA, and vitiligo but also to neurodegenerative disease has been recently described. This gut microbiome induces an altered tryptophan metabolism linked to autoimmune disease. SARS CoV2 invades enterochromaffin cells rich in ACE2 receptors and curtails absorption of the essential amino acid tryptophan and subsequent synthesis of serotonin and melatonin. This review suggests that an etiologic prebiotic (d-mannose)/probiotic (lactobacilli, bifidobacteria)/postbiotic (butyrate) approach to autoimmune skin disease that improves intestinal barrier integrity and that suppresses the triad of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β may enhance or even eliminate the traditional immunotherapy of targeted monoclonal antibodies, Janus kinase inhibitors, and steroids. Health benefits of this approach extend well beyond suppression of autoimmune skin disease.

During the past few years unexpected developments have driven studies in the field of clinical immunology. One driver of immense impact was the outbreak of a pandemic caused by the novel virus SARS-CoV-2. Excellent recent reviews address diverse aspects of immunological re-search into cardiovascular diseases. Here, we specifically focus on selected studies taking ad-vantage of advanced state-of-the-art molecular genetic methods ranging from genome-wide epi/transcriptome mapping and variant scanning to optogenetics and chemogenetics. First, we discuss emerging clinical relevance of advanced diagnostics for cardiovascular diseases - includ-ing those associated with COVID-19 - with a focus on the role of inflammation in cardiomyopa-thies and arrhythmias. Second, we consider newly identified immunological interactions at or-gan and systems level which affect cardiovascular pathogenesis. Thus, studies into immune in-fluences arising from the intestinal system are moving towards therapeutic exploitation. Fur-ther, powerful new research tools have enabled novel insight into brain – immune system inter-actions at unprecedented resolution. This latter line of investigation emphasizes the strength of influence of emotional stress - acting through defined brain regions - upon viral and cardiovas-cular disorders. Several challenges need to be overcome before the full impact of these far-reaching new findings will hit the clinical arena.

Introduction: Although aging is a natural phenomenon, in recent years it has accelerated. One key factor implicated in the aging process is oxidative stress. Oxidative stress play also role in frailty (frail) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: 66 elderly persons (65 years old and older) with no acute or severe chronic disorders were assessed: waist circumference (WC), arterial blood pressure, glycemia, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), plasma lipids and activity of erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD-1). Patients were classified as NonMetS-Nonfrail (n=19), NonMetS-frail (n=20), MetS-Nonfrail (n=17), and MetS-frail (n=10). Results: There were no significant differences in superoxide dismutase activity among investigated elderly groups. However, the data suggests that MetS individuals, both frail and nonfrail, have higher risk factors for cardiovascular disease compared to NonMetS individuals. The correlations analyses of SOD-1 and other metabolic indices suggest that SOD-1 levels may be influenced by age, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and fasting glucose levels in certain groups of seniors. Conclusions: Aging is associated with decreased antioxidant enzyme SOD-1 activity with glucose alteration in frailty syndrome as well as with lipids disturbances in metabolic syndrome.

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is an important cytokine in host defense against tuberculosis infection. In some cases, administration of IFN-γ during tuberculosis infection can promote faster cure. In the present work, we have shown that in a mouse model, human interferon-gamma, exhibits some anti-tuberculosis activity, especially in combination with isoniazid.

This study is aimed to assess the prevalence of Coxiella burnetii infection among veterinary medicine students from two Bulgarian Universities, located in Sofia and Stara Zagora. A total of 185 veterinary students blood samples were collected and tested for the detection of C. burnetii phase II antibodies and presence of DNA using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and end-point PCR test, respectively. Out of all samples, 29.7% were positive for at least one C. burnetii phase II antibody marker or by PCR test. Veterinary students from Stara Zagora showed significantly seropositive status of Q fever (33.6%), then those who studied in Sofia (23%). The evidence for recent exposition with detection of anti-C. burnetii IgM (+) antibodies had 14.6%. Seroprevalence among students in Stara Zagora was higher (15.3%). Anti-C. burnetii phase II IgG antibodies were detected in 21.6% examined samples. Our study revealed a higher seropositivity among male students (32.8%) as compared to the female ones (16.0%). End-point PCR assay detected as positive 5.9% blood samples. The relative risk (RR) of Q fever exposure for male students was 40.7%, whereas for female (24.6%). Findings from this study indicated that the C. burnetii infection is widely distributed amongst veterinary students from Bulgaria. The study emphasizes the need for improved safety protocols and infection control measures in veterinary training programs.

The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) causes novel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP). Given that approved drug repurposing becomes a common strategy to quickly find antiviral treatments, a collection of FDA-approved drugs can be powerful resources for new anti-NCP indication discoveries. In addition to synthetic compounds, Chinese Patent Drugs (CPD), also play a key role in the treatment of virus related infections diseases in China. Here we compiled major components from 38 CPDs that are commonly used in the respiratory diseases and docked them against two drug targets, ACE2 receptor and viral main protease. According to our docking screening, 10 antiviral components, including hesperidin, saikosaponin A, rutin, corosolic acid, verbascoside, baicalin, glycyrrhizin, mulberroside A, cynaroside, and bilirubin, can directly bind to both host cell target ACE2 receptor and viral target main protease. In combination of the docking results, the natural abundance of the substances, and botanical knowledge, we proposed that artemisinin, rutin, glycyrrhizin, cholic acid, hyodeoxycholic acid, puerarin, oleanic acid, andrographolide, matrine, codeine, morphine, chlorogenic acid, and baicalin (or Yinhuang Injection containing chlorogenic acid and baicalin) might be of value for clinical trials during a 2019-nCov outbreak.

Background: A new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that emerged from Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, has spread throughout the world and is declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). A lot remains to be understood of SARS-CoV-2 and the disease (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 has until recently been identified as responsible for both asymptomatic and serious life-threatening infections. The unavailability of specific therapeutic agents is a major hurdle in the treatment and management of COVID-19 patients. The present review attempts to evaluate the immunobiochemical aspects of the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Main Body: This review is a comprehensive evaluation of the data collected through various sources, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. The articles were searched and selected using key words such as “Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)”, “Diagnosis of COVID-19”, Pathogenesis of Covid-19”, “management of COVID-19”, “Immunology of COVID-19”, and “Complications of COVID-19”. The study noted that the novel Coronavirus infection could result in an exaggerated immune response, causing a cytokine storm and damaging several organs of the body. The infected patients develop several complications, including immunological, hematological, and biochemical alterations. Consequently, COVID-19 patients may develop cardiovascular, liver, renal, and neurological complications, among others. Conclusion: An increased understanding of the immunobiochemical aspects of the disease may contribute to better management of SARS-CoV-2-infected persons, as evidenced from the available literature. A holistic approach to the management of COVID-19 patients taking into consideration the effect of COVID-19 infection on various organs of the body assumes increased significance in patient management.

Fibrosis is the end result of persistent inflammatory responses induced by a variety of stimuli, including chronic infections, autoimmune reactions, and tissue injury. Fibrotic diseases affect all vital organs and are characterized by a high rate of morbidity and mortality in the developed world, although currently there are no approved antifibrotic therapies. In recent years, high levels of interleukin-17 (IL-17) have been associated with chronic inflammatory diseases with fibrotic complications, that culminate in organ failure. In this review, we provide an update on the role of IL-17 in fibrotic diseases, with particular attention to the most recent lines of research in the therapeutic field represented by the epigenetic mechanisms that control IL-17 levels in fibrosis. A better knowledge of the IL-17 signalling pathway implications in fibrosis could design new strategies for therapeutic benefits.

Increasing clinical and preclinical evidences implicate gut microbiome (GM) dysbiosis as a key susceptibility factor for neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s diseases (PD). In recent years, neurodegenerative diseases have not been viewed as driven solely by defects in brain, and the role of GM in modulating the central nervous system function via gut-brain axis has attracted considerable interest. Encouraged by GM researches, the next-generation probiotics may lead to tangible impacts on the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. This review summarizes the current understandings of GM composition and characteristics associated with neurodegenerative diseases, and the demonstrations of molecules from GM affecting neurodegeneration. Particularly, applications of next-generation probiotics such as Clostridium butyricum, Akkermansia muciniphila, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and Bacteroides fragilis for remediation of neurodegenerative diseases are discussed.

Metastasis is a systemic condition and the major challenge among cancer types, as it can lead to multiorgan vulnerability. Recently, attention has been drawn to cellular senescence, a complex stress response condition, as a factor implicated in metastatic dissemination and outgrowth. Here, we examine the current knowledge of the features required for cells to invade and colonize secondary organs and how senescent cells can contribute to this process. First, we described the role of senescence in placentation, itself an invasive process which has been linked to higher rates of invasive cancers. Second, we describe how senescent cells can contribute to metastatic dissemination and colonization. Third, we discuss several metabolic adaptations by which senescent cells could promote cancer survival along the metastatic journey. In conclusion, we posit that targeting cellular senescence may have a potential therapeutic efficacy to limit metastasis formation.

The Rose grain aphid, a notable agricultural pest, releases saliva while feeding. Yet, there is a need for a comprehensive understanding of the specific identity and role of secretory proteins released during probing and feeding. Therefore, a combined transcriptomic and proteomic approach was employed to identify putative secretory proteins. The transcriptomic sequencing result led to the assembly of 18030 unigenes out of 31344 transcripts. Among these, 705 potential secretory proteins were predicted and functionally annotated against publicly accessible protein databases. Notably, a substantial proportion of secretory genes (71.5%, 69.08%, and 60.85%) were predicted to encode known proteins in Nr, Pfam, and Swiss-Prot databases, respectively. Conversely, 27.37% and 0.99% of gene transcripts were predicted to encode known proteins with unspecified functions in the Nr and Swiss-Prot databases, respectively. Meanwhile, the proteomic analysis result discovered, 30 salivary proteins. Interestingly, most salivary proteins (53.3% proteins) showed close similarity to A. craccivora, while 36.67% to A. pisum and A. glycines. However, to verify the expression of these secretory genes and characterize the biological function of salivary proteins further intervention should be geared towards gene expression and functional analysis.