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Objective Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), remains the world's largest public health concern in 2021. A history of close contact with infectious patients is a factor that predicts a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. Meanwhile, the precise predictive value of symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to clarify the predictive and discriminatory value of each clinical symptom suggestive of COVID-19. Methods This study enrolled participants who were tested for SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction using a nasopharyngeal swab between November 2020 and January 2021. All enrolled patients were evaluated for data regarding the presence and closeness of contact with infectious patients and comprehensive clinical features (i.e., fever, cough, dyspnea, fatigue, dysosmia, and dysgeusia). Results Among the 1,744 tested participants, 144 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. In the test-positive group, self-reported cough, fatigue, dysosmia, and dysgeusia were significant predictors of COVID-19, independent from a history of close contact. In particular, the presence of dysosmia was the strongest predictor of COVID-19 in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Among the 42 patients with self-reported dysosmia, 25 (59.5%) were SARS-CoV-2 test-positive. Self-reported dysosmia was reported by 25 (17.4%) of the 144 patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, and 15 (60.0%) of the 25 COVID-19 patients with dysosmia had accompanying dysgeusia. Conclusion The presence of dysosmia was reported by 10-25% of patients with COVID-19, and is a significant predictor of COVID-19 infection, independent from a history of close contact.

Aim. To study scientific literature which covers the onset and course of major periodontal diseases and possible methods of body modulation for such patients. To analyze the information provided by the modern scientific researches of periodontal diseases pathogenesis and treatment results to outline prospective directions of therapeutic influence on the patient’s organism. Conclusions. The pathogenesis of gingivitis and periodontitis is determined by some factors, the main of which are local, microorganisms in particular, that are counteracted by the immune system. Periodontal tissue is in close contact with the organs and systems of the body. Their diseases significantly affect the course, treatment and prevention of periodontitis. This requires a multifaceted approach and the choice of the most effective drugs. The primary strategy of preventing gingivitis is to eliminate the attachment of periodontal pathogens to the epithelium and surface of the teeth to prevent the penetration of microorganisms and their toxins through natural protective barriers. It is more important to resort to biological approaches using probiotics, as well as other natural media in order to prevent dysbiosis, long-term treatment, and maintenance therapy. The concept of vaccination against periodontitis is now being elaborated. Correction of the pathological process in the periodontium is considered in the context of the overall biological response of the organism. Therefore, the assessment of the role of its regulators reveals not only the features of local mechanisms, modulation pathways, but also the choice of effective drugs. Prospects of new approaches and introduction of highly effective drugs are critically analyzed.

Objectives Despite having close contact with the general public, members of the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) reported relatively few cases of COVID-19 during the first half of 2020. Our objective was to explore evidence for prior undetected infections by conducting a seroprevalence survey, and to document both risk and protective factors for prior COVID-19 infection. Methods This cross-sectional study assessed workplace practices and exposures of SFFD personnel during the first 6 months of 2020 via questionnaire and documented prior COVID-19 infections by serologic antibody testing using an orthogonal testing protocol. Results Of 1231 participating emergency responders, three (0.25%) had confirmed positive COVID-19 antibody results. Conclusions Safe workplace practices, community public health intervention, and low community infection rates appear to have been protective factors for emergency responders in San Francisco during our study period.

Objective: To investigate patient-specific radioprotection methods for people in close contact with cancer patients treated by 125I-seed implantation. Methods: The initial dose rates (Ḋ0) at distances of 30 and 100 ​cm from 80 patients who had undergone 125I-seed implantation were measured within 24 ​h of the procedure. The dose rate at t (Ḋt) and effective dose (E) were calculated according to the measured values of Ḋ0. The appropriate precaution times for general adult family members, spouses, coworkers, and children or pregnant women were determined, and the relationships between Ḋ0 and precaution time for different close-contact groups were derived by curve-fitting the corresponding data. Results: The mean Ḋ0 values of 80 patients at distances of 30 and 100 ​cm were (15.24 ​± ​11.25) μSv/h and (1.96 ​± ​2.63) μSv/h, respectively (P ​

COVID-19 has affected millions of patients, caregivers, and clinicians around the world. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spreads via droplets and close contact from person to person, and there has been an increased concern regarding aerosol drug delivery due to the potential aerosolizing of viral particles. To date, little focus has been given to aerosol drug delivery to patients with COVID-19 treated at home to minimize their hospital utilization. Since most hospitals were stressed with multiple admissions and experienced restricted healthcare resources in the era of COVID-19 pandemic, treating patients with COPD at home became essential to minimize their hospital utilization. However, guidance on how to deliver aerosolized medications safely and effectively to this patient population treated at home is still lacking. In this paper, we provide some strategies and rationales for device and interface selection, delivery technique, and infection control for patients with COPD who are being treated at home in the era of COVID-19 and beyond., Video abstract Point your SmartPhone at the code above. If you have a QR code reader the video abstract will appear. Or use: https://youtu.be/7k9CZmCbROA.

We estimated the symptomatic, PCR-confirmed secondary attack rate (SAR) for 2,382 close contacts of 476 symptomatic persons with coronavirus disease in Yichang, Hubei Province, China, identified during January 23–February 25, 2020. The SAR among all close contacts was 6.5%; among close contacts who lived with an index case-patient, the SAR was 10.8%; among close-contact spouses of index case-patients, the SAR was 15.9%. The SAR varied by close contact age, from 3.0% for those 60 years of age. Multilevel logistic regression showed that factors significantly associated with increased SAR were living together, being a spouse, and being >60 years of age. Multilevel regression did not support SAR differing significantly by whether the most recent contact occurred before or after the index case-patient’s onset of illness (p = 0.66). The relatively high SAR for coronavirus disease suggests relatively high virus transmissibility.

BACKGROUND: The first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at high risk of acquiring and spreading the COVID-19 infection; using personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection in HCWs. OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of COVID-19 IgG, IgM antibodies among HCWs as well as identifying the factors associated with this seroprevalence. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was performed from July to August 2020 on healthcare workers at two COVID-19 referral hospitals of Birjand University of Medical Sciences. The level of COVID-19 IgG and IgM antibodies in sera was measured by commercial qualitative ELISA kits. RESULTS: In total, 192 individuals participated in the study: physicians (31.25%), nurses (30.2%). 84.2% of participants had contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases and among them 42.9 % of had close contact with COVID-19 patients for more than 3 months, and 31% reported close contact with more than 50 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Mask and gloves were the most frequently used personal protective equipment (PPE) with 92.4% and 77.2% of usage. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the current study showed high level of adherence to the use of PPE among HCWs as well as very low prevalence of seropositivity for of COVID-19 antibodies, hence confirming the effectiveness of PPE in protecting HCWs among COVVID-19 and possibly any other similar infections.

Background: The 2019 novel corona virus has created havoc across the world for whole of last year and still doing so with its continuing second and third waves. It is hypothesized that SARS CoV 2 virus can spread by sneezing, coughing, and even talking to close contact (less than 2 meters) in as little time as few minutes. Materials and Methods: This exercise was done in patients who attended the Otorhinolaryngological outpatient department from July 2020 to December 20 in a tertiary care center in Lucknow. A total of 1556 patients were included in this study. Discussion: Keeping this is mind, after careful discussion we propose a OPD consultation protocol which would not only be useful during this pandemic but even after the peaks have passed and COVID-19 transmission comes down to low levels. This protocol if followed properly would prevent transmission of many such possible infections in future as well. Keywords: Protocol, OPD, Consultation, Endoscopy, COVID-19

This study attempts to review whether the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is transmitted through the ocular surface and examine the symptoms and signs of ocular disease. Considering that COVID-19 is transmitted by airborne droplets and close contact with infected individuals, we will also review the conditions to which eye clinics and ophthalmologists should pay attention to prevent the transmission of the disease. Although some researchers have argued that COVID-19 transmission cannot occur through the ocular surface, most of them are of the opinion that the ocular surface is a potential pathway of transmission. Until date, ocular signs and symptoms have been rarely reported in the COVID-19 patients. However, there are case reports of conjunctivitis as the first, and rarely, the only clinical symptom of the disease. In addition, low coronavirus RNA positivity can be detected in the ocular surface samples. Further laboratory and clinical investigations are needed to ascertain whether the ocular surface is one of the potential transmission pathways through which severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 can gain entry into the human body.

The De Geer family established themselves in Sweden as iron industrialists during the early seventeenth century, but they maintained close contact with the Netherlands. The family built up a prestigious library at Leufstabruk, in northern Uppland. The objects in the Leufsta Music Collection contained a significant amount of music in the form of printed sheet music and manuscripts, which were most likely gathered during the long lifetime of baron Charles De Geer (1720-1778). Compared to the works he collected in his youth in the Netherlands, the printed scores linked to Charles De Geer’s later period in Sweden show a change of taste in both repertoire and collecting behavior. This article deals with the bindings of the sheet music in the Leufsta collection, which give us clues of both De Geer’s acquisition and his approach to his music scores from their purchase to binding, labelling, cataloguing and practical use.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is primarily a respiratory disease that has become a global pandemic. Close contact plays an important role in infection spread, while fomite may also be a possible transmission route. Research during the COVID-19 pandemic has identified long-range airborne transmission as one of the important transmission routes although lack solid evidence. Methods: We examined video data related to a restaurant associated COVID-19 outbreak in Guangzhou. We observed more than 40,000 surface touches and 13,000 episodes of close contacts in the restaurant during the entire lunch duration. These data allowed us to analyse infection risk via both the fomite and close contact routes. Results: There is no significant correlation between the infection risk via both fomite and close contact routes among those who were not family members of the index case. We can thus rule out virus transmission via fomite contact and interpersonal close contact routes in the Guangzhou restaurant outbreak. The absence of a fomite route agrees with the COVID-19 literature. Conclusions: These results provide indirect evidence for the long-range airborne route dominating SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the restaurant. We note that the restaurant was poorly ventilated, allowing for increasing airborne SARS-CoV-2 concentration.

Background A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused huge damage to public health around the world. Revealing the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 and control efficiency is important for containing the spread of the virus. Methods By using a logistic growth model, we estimated the transmission parameters of COVID-19 in China and six other countries (Republic of Korea, Iran, Italy, Spain, France and Germany). The transmission parameters represent the maximum daily increase rate in the early stages of the epidemic and the control efficiency under human intervention. The control efficiency was determined by the significant decrease of the daily increase rate in time and cumulative cases. Results We found the daily increase rate of cumulative cases of COVID-19 decreased significantly in both time and cumulative cases in all countries, but the decreasing trend was not further reduced in other countries except for China and Republic of Korea. The response of the daily increase rate to control measures was much earlier than the number of new cases. Conclusions Our results suggested that lockdown at the epicenter and social distancing effectively reduced the spread of COVID-19 in the early stage, but identification and isolation of patients, suspected cases and people with close contact at a community level is essential in further reduction of the daily increase rate of COVID-19.

Meiotic cells invoke breast cancer susceptibility gene 2 (BRCA2) to repair programmed double-stranded DNA breaks and accomplish homologous recombination. The meiosis-specific protein MEILB2 facilitates BRCA2 recruitment to meiotic recombination sites. Here, we combine crystallography, biochemical analysis and a mouse meiosis model to reveal a robust architecture that ensures meiotic BRCA2 recruitment. The crystal structure of the MEILB2-BRCA2 complex reveals how two MEILB2 homodimers sandwich two chains of BRCA2 to afford a 4:2 architecture. The sandwich lacks close contact between the two MEILB2 dimers or the two BRCA2 chains. Instead, the two halves of each BRCA2 chain bridge two MEILB2 subunits from different homodimers to form the MEILB2-BRCA2-MEILB2 sandwich. Several identical residues from the two MEILB2 subunits are employed to engage the BRCA2 halves, justifying their strict conservation. Mutational analysis of the interface reveals a synergistic mechanism for MEILB2-BRCA2 recruitment during meiosis. Overall, these studies demonstrate how BRCA2 efficiently localizes in the cell to facilitate meiosis.

T-cells are immune cells that continuously scan for foreign-derived antigens on the surfaces of nearly all cells, termed antigen presenting cells (APCs). They do this by dynamically extending numerous protrusions called microvilli (MV) that contain T-cell receptors (TCRs) towards the APC surface in order to scan for antigens. The number, size, and dynamics of these MV, and the complex multi-scale topography that results, play a yet unknown role in antigen recognition. We develop an anatomically informed model of the T-cell/APC interface to elucidate the role of MV dynamics in antigen sensitivity and discrimination. We find that MV surveillance reduces antigen sensitivity compared to a completely flat interface unless MV are stabilized in an antigen-dependent manner and find that MV have only a modest impact on antigen discrimination. The model highlights that MV contacts optimise the competing demands of fast scanning speeds of the APC surface with antigen sensitivity and that T-cells operate their MV near the interface packing limit. Finally, we find that observed MV contact lifetimes can be largely influenced by conditions in the T-cell/APC interface with these lifetimes often being longer than the simulation or experimental observation period. The work highlights the role of MV in antigen recognition.Significance StatementT-cells search for foreign-derived antigens on the surface of antigen presenting cells (APC) by dynamically extending tubular protrusions called microvilli (MV) which form membrane close-contacts. Although known for decades, their role in antigen recognition remains unclear. Guided by recent experiments, we built an anatomically informed stochastic model of MV scanning and compared with a topologically flat interface. We find that MV scanning modestly impacts antigen discrimination, yet it enables T-cells to balance the competing effects of maintaining sensitivity while conducting rapid APC surveillance. The model can reconcile discrepancies in observed MV lifetimes and demonstrates that observed area coverage fractions correspond to geometric packing limits. Our work suggests that MVs promote positive signaling outcomes despite anatomical constraints to close contact formation.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is primarily a respiratory disease that has become a global pandemic. Close contact plays an important role in infection spread, while fomite may also be a possible transmission route. Research during the COVID-19 pandemic has identified long-range airborne transmission as one of the important transmission routes although lack solid evidence. Methods: We examined video data related to a restaurant associated COVID-19 outbreak in Guangzhou. We observed more than 40,000 surface touches and 13,000 episodes of close contacts in the restaurant during the entire lunch duration. These data allowed us to analyse infection risk via both the fomite and close contact routes. Results: There is no significant correlation between the infection risk via both fomite and close contact routes among those who were not family members of the index case. We can thus rule out virus transmission via fomite contact and interpersonal close contact routes in the Guangzhou restaurant outbreak. The absence of a fomite route agrees with the COVID-19 literature. Conclusions: These results provide indirect evidence for the long-range airborne route dominating SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the restaurant. We note that the restaurant was poorly ventilated, allowing for increasing airborne SARS-CoV-2 concentration.

Background: In 2020, Indonesia experienced a pandemic period, during which the corona virus spread. Close contact is a factor in the transmission of the covid 19 virus. Applying health protocols is considered important to reduce the incidence of the increase in the covid 19 virus. Methods: The basic purpose of this service is to provide training and assistance in implementing health protocols for community groups, especially the recitation group for farmer women's groups in the village of Saronggi. The main purpose of this service is to suppress the spread of the corona virus in the community. Results: The results showed that the counseling and mentoring process at the Women's Farmer's Association in Saronggi village went smoothly and as expected. This can be seen from the enthusiasm of all members when listening to counseling and changes in the behavior or habits of members in implementing health protocols when carrying out activities Conclusions Suggestions that we can hope for are to remain disciplined with health protocols so that they can really suppress the spread of the virus and break the chain of the Corona Virus.

Background : Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 can cause recurrent infection (reactivation) in the form of herpes labialis. This viral infection can be transmitted through contact with oral secretions, with a 8-10% prevalence of patients) and 90% of close contact with patients. The purpose of this case study is to describe herpes labialis caused by contact with the patient and its treatment. Case report : A 23-year-old woman came to RSIGM Sultan Agung Semarang with the chief complaint of sores in the corner of her mouth since 4 days ago with fever, which ruptured two days later. Extraoral examination revealed 4 mm erosions with clear borders and multiple 1 mm vesicles with clear borders surrounded by erythematous based on the labial commissure dextra. Herpes labialis was diagnosed. Conclusion : Herpes labialis can be transmitted through direct contact or through oral secretions such as saliva. Giving acyclovir cream three times a day is effective for relieving symptoms and hastening healing. These lesions can be healed without scar.

Increasing evidence supports the significant role of short-range airborne transmission of viruses when in close contact with a source patient. A full-scale ventilated room (Cleanliness: ISO 14644–1 Class 5) and two face-to-face standing breathing thermal manikins were used to simulate a source individual and a susceptible person. Monodisperse particle generation and measurement techniques were used to evaluate the effect of virus-laden droplet nuclei size on short-range airborne transmission risk. We analysed four particle sizes (1.0, 1.5, 2.5, and 5.0 µm) to simulate the transport of exhaled droplet nuclei within an interpersonal distance of 0.5 m. The results indicated that the size distribution of airborne droplet nuclei could significantly influence transmission, with the inhalation fraction decreasing with increasing droplet nuclei size. Additionally, results showed that proximity to the source manikin could influence transmission. Inhalation fraction decreased with increasing interpersonal distance, fitting well with the 1/ d rule of droplet nuclei concentration decay. Our findings improve the understanding of the mechanism of the disease transmission.

Nowadays people living in urban are highly increasing than in rural areas. Because of the increase in population, the air which we inhale is also getting contaminated; the people who live in the rural areas want all their needs to be satisfied. Due to air pollution, people suffer from heart disease, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. Air pollution has a negative impact on the growth of plants. When the leaves are in close contact with the atmosphere, many pollutants interfere with the growth.[1] Because of this greediness, they set up many industries around their living areas. These industries not only satisfy their needs but also increase pollution. People are afraid of this pollution. It not only affects human beings but also the plants which give us oxygen, some of the plants can hold only a certain amount of humidity, if it increases then the plant will die. The plants in the route will also get affected by the vehicle which passes by the road. While passing the road it emits a lot of harmful gases which affect the plants in our house. So, we decided to stop these actions and thought to bring a healthy life to the plants. We come across a device that measures the pollutants in the air, it gave us some spark. And then we invented a device using IoT (Internet of Things) technology. This device helps us to find the harmful substances in the air so that we can stop the cause of air pollution and give a healthy life for the plants. It will also help us on the rooftop by providing more oxygen. Using smart wireless sensors, we can check the places. [2]

Paciente de 59 años quien ingresa al servicio de urgencias con un cuadro de 2 días de evolución de cefalea holocraneana de intensidad moderada 7/10, picos febriles no cuantificados, disnea grado III, adinamia, hiporexia, ageusia y tos no productiva, refiriendo contacto estrecho con hermana confirmada para infección por COVID-19, por lo que se investiga antígeno para COVID-19 con resultado positivo. Se confirma la existencia del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SARS-CoV-2) con coinfección por Cryptococus neoformans. El manejo con corticoide sistémico genera un importante inmunocompromiso que predispone al paciente a coinfecciones por gérmenes comunes y oportunistas, como lo es la infección por Cryptococcus neoformans/ Gatti. En este caso la infección por COVID-19 y el desarrollo de SARS-CoV-2 fue la etiología de la infección micótica por cryptococo.

Background Due to immunological susceptibility, close contact with the environment and way of life, indigenous communities are in a highly vulnerable condition to be affected by zoonoses, such as bartonellosis. Methods Seventy three paired serum samples were collected from indigenous people from a region of the Brazilian Legal Amazon, in cohorts carried out in 2014 and 2015, with the performance of serological tests by indirect immunofluorescence to detect anti-Bartonella IgG antibodies. The interviews and laboratory results were double entered in the EpiInfo 7 software, and the data processing was performed in the MiniTab 17 software. Results 5.47% of the indigenous people were seroreagent. The female gender was predominant (65.75%), aged between 20 and 39 years old (39.73%) with complete elementary school (42.47%). As for housing, wooden residences predominated (50.68%). Rodents were seen by 46.58% of the interviewees, and 55.88% of them reported that the animal was close to or inside the house. It was identified that each indigenous family, in its majority, had four to six cats, for the function of hunters of rodents. Conclusion The high concentration of domestic cats, the close contact of indigenous people with wild rodents and the lack of care and poor hygiene of both are aspects that imply the possibility of infection by Bartonella sp. Health surveillance through seroepidemiological studies is essential to find evidence of the circulation of bartonellosis in these populations.

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito‐borne virus of a re‐emergence importance with a wide range of vertebrate hosts. Granted, it causes asymptomatic infection, but fatal cases and neurologic disorders were also recorded, especially in humans, horses and some exposed birds. The virus is globally spread and birds are considered an amplifying and reservoir host of WNV, helping to spread the disease due to their close contact with main hosts. In this study, we aimed to detect the presence of antibodies against WNV in backyard hens that were reared in the western Anatolian part of Turkey. A total of 480 chicken sera were randomly collected from six provinces in the west of Turkey (Mugla, Izmir, Aydin, Afyonkarahisar, Kutahya and Manisa) with 80 samples from each province (40 in spring and 40 in fall seasons). They were tested by using a competitive ELISA method to identify the specific avian antibodies of IgG that produced against the WNV envelope proteins (pr‐E). Twelve of 480 (2.5%) sera were found seropositive, three of these positive sera were detected from the Izmir province (3.75%) collected in the spring session and the other nine positive sera were detected from the Mugla province (11.25%) collected in the fall session. Both of these provinces are located seaside and have suitable climate conditions for vectors of infection. The results indicated that WNV infection is in circulation in these provinces, and that may put the other susceptible vertebrates under risk of infection., Our study is considered for notifying serologically the presence of antibodies against West Nile virus (WNV) in backyard hens that reared in the western part of Turkey, to see if it can pose a substantial risk for both public and animal health in these areas, and the obtained results confirmed this hypothesis by achieving a seroprevalence rate of 2.5%. This outcome has an imperative significance for enhancing early detection sensitivity and capacity tools that could be used for indicating WNV circulation and estimating a possible future occurrence of human cases because those local chickens that we used in our study can play the role of sentinel animals that can provide early detection of WNV transmission.

This case report describes the formation of thick epiretinal fibrosis in the 1st year after implantation of an Argus II retinal prosthesis in a retinitis pigmentosa patient., Purpose: To report and describe the anatomical changes detected by spectral domain optical coherence tomography between an Argus II retinal prosthesis and the inner retinal layers during 1-year follow-up. Methods and Results: A patient presented with epiretinal fibrosis 12 months after implant of an Argus II epiretinal prosthesis. One month after uneventful surgery in March 2016, an evident hyporeflective space was detected between the epiretinal prosthesis and the inner retinal surface by spectral domain optical coherence tomography. An epiretinal hyperreflective band was noticed during follow-up and 1 year after surgery. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography showed close contact of the band with the array, which greatly increased the electrical threshold of stimulation for most of the electrodes. Some electrodes were no longer functioning. No changes in visual performance were detected. Conclusion: Argus II epiretinal prosthesis implant may be complicated by the formation of a hyperreflective epiretinal band, detectable by spectral domain optical coherence tomography. The band may alter prosthesis function; to date, the patient did not scored any decrease in visual function.

Air Asia Berhad is very well-known as the low-cost airline, the headquarter is located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is the largest airline in Malaysia by fleet size and destinations. It has consistently been named as the world’s best low-cost carrier for 11 years by Skytrax. Low-cost plan helps the company to earn profit in fact. However, in 2020, the revenue of Air Asia Berhad has decreased terribly due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Covid-19 pandemic began to spread in the final week of January 2020 at Malaysia and until this moment in time, the whole world is still facing the pandemic. It is also known as Coronavirus which can be spread through air and close contact. Due to Covid-19 pandemic, the passengers carried has been decreased by 74% by January to December 2020 on comparison with January to December 2019 which directly implies less revenue generation. Furthermore, many of the staff has been laid off. The particular aim for this research is to determine the factors affecting the revenue generation of the company during Covid-19. Google form was used to collect the needed information for this research. With the collected data through the study, it was found out that restrictions in travelling, paucity of passengers and high number of workers in the company are the main factors giving the current impact to the company’s revenue.

Qualitative researchers of ‘unsavory’ populations experience a complex range of emotions as they sustain close contact with people and communities that are deemed reprehensible, dangerous, or toxic. Empathy, in particular, raises ethical and methodological challenges for scholars who must build rapport with people who may perpetuate racism, sexism, xenophobia, and so on. Drawing on existing qualitative literature and ethnographic fieldwork, I propose critical empathy as a methodological framework to account for the difficult and sometimes problematic emotional dimensions of research on ‘unsavory’ populations. Instead of trying to resolve the tensions between empathy and critique, critical empathy compels us to grapple with these tensions and make them apparent in our work.

Introduction: Toothbrushes can readily become contaminated with microbes during use and storage. They present a potential hazard of cross-contamination and subsequent infection. Aims: To investigate the nature and level of microbial contamination of used toothbrushes and influence of participant lifestyle. Methods and Results: 103 used toothbrushes were donated, and microbial contents were determined by microbial culture and identification. 97% of toothbrushes revealed contamination. The microbial loads ranged from 0-1010 cfu/brush with median values of around 107, with Candida isolated in the highest levels. 90% of toothbrushes were stored in bathrooms presumably exposed to environmental contamination and 72% revealed the presence of enteric bacteria including Klebsiella, Serratia and Enterobacter. 50% of participants kept toothbrushes for >3 months and 40% retained toothbrushes for 4-6 months; microbial loads were fully established during the first three months of use and did not increase further with prolonged use. Only 57% of participants brushed their teeth twice a day and 41% brushed once a day. Conclusion: Used toothbrushes are heavily contaminated and the presence of potentially pathogenic microorganisms constitutes a potential health risk. Significance and Impact of Study: There is an under-recognised risk of cross-contamination/infection, especially when multiple users store toothbrushes in close contact. Guidance on toothbrush age, brushing frequency and storage is not being followed. Further education is required to improve public awareness.

The COVID 19 pandemic has brought about a change in the lifestyle of one and all with the healthcare workers being no exception. The objective of this review is to discuss the problems faced during the COVID19 pandemic especially by the ophthalmological community owing to the close contact with the patient during examination which is inevitable. The text has been written after a thorough literature search of articles on Pubmed using relevant keywords. It discusses and brings forth the ways of ophthalmological practices to minimize the risk of exposure being followed across the world as laid down by the ophthalmological societies of various countries and regions. The importance of social distancing and the role of tele-ophthalmology which formed the cornerstone of treatment during this hour of crisis has also been discussed. Keywords: COVID 19, Ophthalmology, Tele­ophthalmology.

Thelaziasis is a zoonotic disease caused by a nematode of genus Thelazia. Dogs, rabbits, cattle, and human are the definitive hosts, while flies act as an intermediate host. Human thelaziasis is reported occasionally from various geographic regions around the globe. There are several species of Thelazia, but Thelazia callipaeda is the most common to infect human. An 83-year-old man from a hilly rural region of Nepal who came for his routine glaucoma follow-up was found to harbor six eye worms in the conjunctival fornices. After mechanical removal under topical anesthesia, the worms were studied under light microscope. They appeared creamy/white in color, ranging from 9 to 12 mm in length, and had tapering ends. Based on morphometrics, they were identified as Thelazia callipaeda. This is the second case reported from the country. People of rural areas who live in close contact with domestic animals and in unhygienic conditions are at greater risk of human thelaziasis. The concerned authorities and the community should be alerted if eye worms are noticed in domestic animals and humans. These worms need to be identified and reported in the health care system to determine its prevalence and endemicity and to take necessary actions.

Active epidemiological surveillance of infectious agents represents a fundamental tool for understanding the transmission dynamics of pathogens and establishing public policies that can reduce or limit their expansion. Epidemiological surveillance of emerging agents, such as the recently recognized severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), the cause of COVID‐19, is essential to establish the risk of transmission between species. Recent studies reveal that companion animals are organisms susceptible to being infected by this pathogen due to the close contact they have with their owners. For this reason, the aim of the present work was to detect the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in dogs and cats in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, where there is active transmission of this microorganism in human populations. Oral and nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from dogs and cats with a history of exposure to patients with COVID‐19. Total RNA was extracted and detection of viral genes N1 and N2 was performed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). All 130 samples of companion animals tested by RT‐qPCR for SARS‐CoV‐2 were negative at the time they were collected. This study represents the second active surveillance of SARS‐CoV‐2 in populations of domestic dogs and cats in Latin America and the first approach in Mexico. Given that coronaviruses have shown a high capacity to be transmitted between species, it is imperative to establish measures to prevent this agent from entering and establishing in populations of companion animals.

In December 2019, a new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged and rapidly spread globally, posing a worldwide health emergency. The pathogen causing this pandemic was identified as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is well known that SARS-CoV-2 transmits via respiratory droplets and close contact with infected individuals or contaminated items. In addition to these two major transmission routes, other modes of transmission have not been confirmed. Considering that some COVID-19 patients have presented with ocular discomforts and positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA in ocular surfaces, as well as the discovery of the SARS-CoV-2 receptors, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, and transmembrane protease, serine 2, in the oculus, the ocular surface is now thought to be a possible alternative route of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and a replication site. This review summarizes the evidence connecting COVID-19 with ocular tissues, ocular symptoms during SARS-CoV-2 infection, the potential role of the conjunctiva in SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and the physiopathological mechanisms. Appropriate precautions in ophthalmology departments, including innovative complete and effective patient management plans, protective personal equipment, hand hygiene, and strict personal distance intervals, are essential to effectively minimize the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and control the pandemic.

Millions of pilgrims visit Lourdes each year, often seeking revitalisation rather than miraculous cures. We sought to understand the phenomenon of transcendent experiences. We spoke with 67 pilgrims including assisted pilgrims, young volunteers and medical staff. About two in five reported a transcendent experience: some felt they had communicated or had close contact with a divine presence, while others reported a powerful experience of something intangible and otherworldly. Transcendent experiences are an important feature of pilgrimage to Lourdes and the place offers the faithful a means of connecting with the divine, with nature and with the self.

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks occur in hospitals in many parts of the world. In hospital settings, the possibility of airborne transmission needs to be investigated thoroughly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There was a nosocomial outbreak of COVID-19 in a hematologic ward in a tertiary hospital, Seoul, Korea. We found 11 patients and guardians with COVID-19 through vigorous contact tracing and closed-circuit television monitoring. We found one patient who probably had acquired COVID-19 through airborne-transmission. We performed airflow investigation with simulation software, whole-genome sequencing of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). RESULTS: Of the nine individuals with COVID-19 who had been in the hematologic ward, six stayed in one multi-patient room (Room 36), and other three stayed in different rooms (Room 1, 34, 35). Guardian in room 35 was close contact to cases in room 36, and patient in room 34 used the shared bathroom for teeth brushing 40 minutes after index used. Airflow simulation revealed that air was spread from the bathroom to the adjacent room 1 while patient in room 1 did not used the shared bathroom. Airflow was associated with poor ventilation in shared bathroom due to dysfunctioning air-exhaust, grill on the door of shared bathroom and the unintended negative pressure of adjacent room. CONCLUSION: Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the hematologic ward occurred rapidly in the multi-patient room and shared bathroom settings. In addition, there was a case of possible airborne transmission due to unexpected airflow.

Covid-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) is a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that is known to have originated in Wuhan, China. It was found at the end of December 2019 with countries infected with the Coronavirus in more than 65 countries. According to WHO data as of the 4th of March 2020, the number of sufferers was 90,308 infected with Covid-19. In Indonesia as of April 14, 2010, people with Covid-19 were positive for 4,839, recovered 426, and died 459. In Indonesia, one of the ways to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic is by spraying with disinfectant liquid and delivering food or medicine to patients infected with Covid. -19 is still in close contact with a patient who is still likely to be infected from that patient. According to general guidelines in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic, one of them is done by spraying disinfectants in several public facilities such as health clinics, government office, schools, bridges, parks, fields, and other public areas. However, sterilization is still done manually by health workers. This puts medical personnel at risk of being exposed to the covid-19 virus. Therefore, in this study, a multi-functional robot with a remote control equipped with an FPV camera was developed. The robot can be used to spray disinfectant, UV lamp-based sterilization, and deliver food and medicine to patients infected with Covid-19. From the test results, the teleoperation system can work well with a range of 30 meters indoors and 150 meters outdoors.

Background Homeopathy has had documented success treating epidemics in the last two centuries. We aimed to obtain a clear homeopathic clinical picture of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and postulate the genus epidemicus of the disease in order to inform and enhance future treatment and prophylaxis options. Methods We conducted a prospective case series study, collecting data from 19 homeopaths in Catalonia, Spain, from patients who presented with fever and/or cough and/or breathlessness and/or confirmed COVID-19 infection or close contact with a confirmed case. We included 107 patients, and data were recorded through a checklist questionnaire on the day of the case analysis and at day 10–15 after commencing treatment. Symptoms were collected and analyzed with the help of homeopathic repertories. Results A total of 103 cases were mild or moderate; four were severe. The severe cases were excluded from the analysis and the 103 mild and moderate cases were analyzed and a clear overall clinical picture with mental, general, and particular symptoms was achieved. Eighty-eight cases had a complete recorded follow-up. The most prescribed medicines were Bry, Ars, Phos and Gels, whilst those with the best rates of good response were Sulph, Puls and Bry. Time to full recovery after homeopathic treatment ranged from 3.5 to 14.4 days, depending on the medicine used. The potency 200c was associated with faster rates of full recovery and a lesser need to change remedy. Conclusion We have defined the symptomatic homeopathic characteristics of mild and moderate COVID-19 in Spain and established a set of medicines that might be useful to consider as effective genus epidemicus.

Background During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, multiple preventative measures were used to prevent the virus from spreading in the population. The Israeli defense force deployed further means to contain the disease, including putting units in quarantine, physical distancing and using masks, gowns and disinfectants when in contact with suspected patients. Methods We used reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR) tests to screen for patients among asymptomatic soldiers within units participating in civilian aid or in close contact with known patients, using personal protective equipment. Positive results were repeated and followed with serological testing to verify the nature of results. Results Between April and May 2020, we screened a total of 1,453 soldiers in 13 different units. We found 11 false positive results, leading to unnecessary measures until resolution, and three true positive results (0.2%). All true positive results had unreported symptoms concomitant with SARS-CoV-2 disease. These results led to the resolution of this screening policy. Conclusion Screening asymptomatic army personnel in this setting with rt-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 is not warranted and leads to unnecessary false positive results. Efforts should be directed at identifying symptomatic patients.

В умовах пандемії COVID-19 виникають значні об’єктивні проблеми з точки зору безпечного перевезення населення громадським транспортом. Динамічна політика швидкого реагування при транспортуванні людей для зменшення ризиків зараження пасажирів і водіїв забезпечується тим, що при перевезеннях необхідним є надання дозволу муніципальними органами влади на перевезення людей без обтяжуючих зайвих обмежень щодо числа пасажирів у салоні, дотримуватись рівня заповнення салону автобуса винятково відповідно до передбачених конструкцію транспортного засобу числа сидячих місць максимальної кількості пасажирів. Як доведено дослідженнями, штучне недовантаження транспортного засобу для уникнення щільного контакту пасажирів не впливає рівень зараження COVID-19, тому дане обмеження не є раціональним, спричиняючи недовантаження і нераціональні суттєві фінансові втрати перевізника, як наслідок, ймовірне звільнення найманих працівників, відповідно негативний соціальний ефект. Сформовано рекомендації, такі як, обов’язкове використання масок у комплекті з рукавичками, посилена вентиляція салону, а також організація посадки – висадки пасажирів тільки на задні двері та 100% безконтактна оплата проїзду для максимального захисту водія. Дане дослідження є основою формування політики перевезень пасажирів громадським транспортом з позиції визначення рівня безпеки в умовах COVID-19 та комфорту пасажирів з розробкою основ вимірювання сприйняття найважливіших факторів зручності громадського транспорту, мінімального дискомфорту і максимальної безпеки. Ключові слова: організація перевезень, безпека пасажирів, громадський транспорт, пасажиропотік, маршрут

Purpose: Determine the risk of immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) for COVID-19 infection morbidity.Method: A telemedicine survey on patients of a referral uveitis clinic was performed. Signs of infection, habits, and hospitalizations during the 7 months of the COVID-19 pandemic prior to the study date were recorded. Suggestive findings in chest CT scan and/or positive RT-PCR were considered as confirmed COVID-19 infection while those with only suggestive symptoms were considered as suspected cases. Risk factors including sanitary measures and IMT were compared between patients with confirmed cases and patients without infection.Result: 694 patients were included. Eight patients were identified as confirmed cases and 22 patients as suspected cases of COVID-19 infection. Close contact with infected persons was the only significant risk factor for contracting COVID-19.Conclusion: Using IMT did not affect hospitalization and/or ICU admission and can thus be continued during the pandemic, provided that instructions for preventive measures are followed.

BackgroundEight months after the detection of the first COVID-19 case in Africa, 1,262,476 cases have been reported in African countries compared to 72 million worldwide. The real burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection in West Africa is not clearly defined. The aim of the study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in half of the 3,380 workers of several mining companies operating in two mines in the Ivory Coast and having its headquarters in the economic capital Abidjan.MethodsFrom 15th July to 13th October 2020, a voluntary serological test campaign was performed in the 3 sites where the companies operate: two mines, and the headquarters in Abidjan.We performed a COVID-PRESTO rapid test for the detection of IgG and IgM on capillary blood. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent sociodemographic characteristics associated with a higher SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence rate.ResultsA total of 1,687 subjects were tested. 91% were male (n= 1,536) and mean age was 37 years old. The overall crude seroprevalence rate was 25.1% (n=422), but differing significantly between different sites, rising from 13.6% (11.2%-16.1%) in mine A to 34.4% (31.1%-37.7%) in mine B and 34.7% (26.2%-43.2%) in Abidjan. Non-resident workers in mines had a significantly lower prevalence rate than those living full-time in mines. Seroprevalence was 26.5% in natives of the Ivory Coast, while people coming from countries other than Africa were less likely to be SARS-CoV-2 seropositive. Among the 422 positive subjects, 74 reported mild symptoms in the three previous months and one was hospitalized for a severe COVID-19 infection.ConclusionThe prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among mine workers in Ivory Coast is high. The low morbidity observed has probably led to an underestimation of the burden of this infection in West Africa. The high prevalence reported in subjects living in Abidjan, who have not any close contact with mine workers, may be indicative of the real seroprevalence in the Ivory Coast capital.

Cattle are subjected to routine procedures that require restraint and close contact to humans, which are both potentially aversive to the animal. Positive reinforcement training techniques may affect how animals perceive and respond to these procedures. The objectives of the current study were to describe a positive reinforcement regimen used to train cattle to stand still for a sham injection, and to assess the effects of this training on the responses to an actual injection. Eight “agency” heifers were trained, over an average of 85 ± 4.6 sessions, with positive reinforcement (i.e., animals received a grain reinforcer for desired behaviors) to enter a headlock, and they were habituated with counterconditioning and desensitization to a sham injection (i.e., animals were gradually exposed to the sensation of the sham injection, paired with access to grain). The headlock remained open at all times to allow heifers to leave. Eight “habituation” heifers were exposed to the treatment area and headlock for an equal number of sessions and duration as agency heifers, and 7 “naive” heifers were provided no exposure to the treatment area. Once agency heifers tolerated the sham injection, all animals received a 1-mL subcutaneous injection of 0.9% NaCl while in the head lock (habituation and naive heifers were locked in but agency heifers were free to withdraw). Immediate responses to the injection, starting with tenting of the skin, were video recorded and summarized as a reactivity score, which included the number of steps, head tosses, and backing-up movements; we also recorded the latency to approach the treatment area and headlock for 3 d after the injection. Of the agency heifers, 5 remained standing for the actual injection, whereas 3 heifers moved out of the headlock for a brief period (1, 3, and 5 s, respectively). Habituation heifers had a higher reactivity score [17.5 (10.5–28); median (IQR)] than agency [6 (2–13.5)] and naive heifers [6 (5–7)]. Averaged over the 3 d after injection, agency heifers showed lower latencies to come to the treatment area [8.7 (7.2–24.2) s] than did habituation [50.5 (28–60) s] and naive [53.7 (18–60) s] heifers. Agency heifers voluntarily entered the headlock within 1.3 (1–1.5) s but, with one exception, none of the other heifers did so within the allowed 15 s. These results indicate that dairy heifers can be trained with positive reinforcement and counterconditioning to voluntarily accept a painful procedure, and that training can reduce avoidance behaviors during and after the procedure.

Introduction: Close contacts have become a potential threat to the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The purpose of this study was to understand the epidemiological characteristics of close contacts of confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19 in the surrounding cities of Chengdu, China, so as to provide a basis for the management strategy of close contacts. Methods: Close contacts were determined through epidemiological investigation of indicated cases, and relevant information was entered in the “Close Contact Information Management System.” Retrospective data of close contacts from January 22 to May 1, 2020 were collected and organized. Meanwhile, the contact mode, isolation mode, and medical outcome of close contacts were descriptively analyzed. Results: A total of 986 close contacts were effectively traced, with an average age of (36.69 ± 16.86) years old, who were mainly distributed in cities of eastern Chengdu. The frequency of contact was mainly occasional contact, 80.42% of them were relatives and public transportation personnel. Besides, the time of tracking close contacts and feedback was (10.64 ± 5.52) and (7.19 ± 6.11) days, respectively. A total of seven close contacts were converted to confirmed cases. Conclusions: Close contacts of COVID-19 have a risk of invisible infection. Early control of close contacts may be helpful to control the epidemic of COVID-19.

PurposeClose-contact rates are thought to be a significant driving force behind the dynamics of transmission for many infectious respiratory diseases. Efforts to control such infections typically focus on the practice of strict contact-avoidance measures. Yet, contact rates and their relation to transmission, and the impact of control measures, are seldom quantified. Here, we quantify the response of contact rates, transmission and new cases of COVID-19 to public health contact-restriction orders, and the associations among these three variables, in the Canadian province of British Columbia (BC) and within its two most densely populated regional health authorities: Fraser Health Authority (FHA) and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority (VCHA).MethodsWe obtained time series for self-reported close-contact rates from the BC Mix COVID-19 Survey, new reported cases of COVID-19 from the BC Center for Disease Control, and transmission rates based on dynamic model fits to reported cases. Our study period was from September 13, 2020 to February 19, 2021, during which three public health contact-restriction orders were introduced (October 26, November 7 and November 19, 2020). We used segmented linear regression to quantify impacts of public health orders, Pearson correlation to assess the instantaneous relation between contact rates and transmission, and vector autoregressive modeling to study the lagged relations among the three variables.ResultsOverall, declines in contact rates and transmission occurred concurrently with the announcement of public health orders, whereas declines in new cases showed a reporting delay of roughly two weeks. The impact of the first public health order (October 26, 2020) on contact rates and transmission was more pronounced than that of the other two health orders. Contact rates and transmission on the same day were strongly correlated (correlation coefficients = 0.64, 0.53 and 0.34 for BC, FHA, and VCHA, respectively). Moreover, contact rates were a significant time-series driver of COVID-19 and explained roughly 30% and 18% of the variation in new cases and transmission, respectively. Interestingly, increases in transmission and new cases were followed by reduced rates of contact: overall, average daily cases explained about 10% of the variation in provincial contact rates.ConclusionWe show that close-contact rates were a significant driver of transmission of COVID-19 in British Columbia, Canada and that they varied in response to public health orders. Our results also suggest a possible feedback, by which contact rates respond to recent changes in reported cases. Our findings help to explain and validate the commonly assumed, but rarely measured, response of close contact rates to public health guidelines and their impact on the dynamics of infectious diseases.

Subgingival dental restorations and periodontal health have been studied for many years; however, there is a low histological evidence on the behavior of new materials in the supracrestal tissue attachment. The aim of this study is to analyze the periodontal response when a tricalcium silicate material (TSM) or composite margin restorations is placed to 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm from the bone crest with a histomorphometric analysis in dogs. Nine mongrel dogs were used in this study: four dogs (8 canine teeth) for TSM group, 4 dogs (8 canine teeth) for composite group, and 1 dog (2 canine teeth) with cavities without restorations. Cavity preparation of 2×2×1 mm was created on the buccal aspect of the canines at 0.5 and 1.5 mm of the crestal bone. Cavities were restored with composite and TSM or were left unrestored as control. After 12 weeks of healing, the dogs were euthanized and blocks containing the tooth and soft tissues were processed. In all the specimens, the junction epithelium was stablished apical to the tooth preparations. A shorter distance to the bone (0.5 cavity) implies greater apical periodontal migration regardless of the material used. In the TSM groups, the connective tissue height and the distance between bone level and apical margin preparation were greater than those in the composite groups, while the epithelium height was less. However, there were no statistically significant differences comparing TSM and composite groups at either 0.5 mm or 1.5 mm (p > 0.05). Histologic analysis did not show periodontal reattachment to TSM or composite. In both cases, bone crest migrates apically. For that reason, it is recommended to perform composite restorations at the subgingival level whenever the distance to the bone crest is at least 2 mm. Both composite and TSM do not achieve reinsertion of the connective tissue in the biological width.

The perpetual burden of tuberculosis (TB) keeps drawing the focus of research on this disease. Among other risk factors (e.g., poor living conditions, malnutrition, smoking, HIV infection, etc.), being in close contact with a TB infected person requires special attention. For a better understanding of the disease, paleopathological investigations concerning TB have been carried out with various techniques for a long a time; nevertheless, analysis of incidence among family members is hardly possible in past populations. An exceptional group of naturally mummified individuals, the collection of the Vác mummies (Hungary, 18th century CE), is known about the large TB incidence rate, which has been revealed by aDNA analysis. Besides the high rate of TB infection, another interesting aspect of the collection is that in some cases, the family connections could be reconstructed. In this paper, we present the mycocerosic acid profiles gained by HPLC-HESI-MS measurements of two Vác mummies, who were mother and daughter according to the personal records. Earlier metagenomic analysis already revealed mixed M. tuberculosis infection with the same bacterial strains in both individuals; moreover, the same bacterial strains were recorded in both cases.