SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, poses significant health threats due to its high transmissibility and potential for severe respiratory complications. T cells, central to adaptive immunity, also interact with innate immunity, playing a pivotal role in coordinating defenses and eliminating infected cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has provided more subtle heterogeneity, rare subpopulations, or new subpopulations that are at the district differentiation stage or with specific function. Thus, elucidating how T cell heterogeneity impacts COVID-19 disease severity remains a critical question requiring comprehensive analysis. This review revealed the heterogeneity of the host T cells, including conventional T cells (CD8+, CD4+ T cells) and unconventional T cells, including natural killer T (NKT) cells, mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) and gamma-delta T (γδT) cells in COVID-19 patients with different clinical manifestations. Severe COVID-19 had marked lymphopenia, excessive activation, elevated exhaustion and reduced functional diversity of T cells. Pathogenic contributions arise from dysregulated cytotoxic T cells, Treg cells and unconventional T cells collectively driving systemic hyperinflammation and tissue injury. Current therapeutic strategies targeting T cells-such as enhancing virus-specific T cell responses, reverting T-cell exhaustion and alleviating inflammation-exhibit inconsistent efficacy, underscoring the need for combinatorial approaches. This review highlights how scRNA-seq deciphers T cell heterogeneity and dysfunction in COVID-19. By targeting T cell exhaustion, inflammation, and subset-specific deficits, these insights pave the way for therapies and vaccines.

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) disease progression evidence and viral clearance time remain limited in tropical settings. Understanding this is crucial for public health control measures at community-level. We evaluated the viral dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection and factors associated with positivity duration in COVID-19 cases in Cameroon.

We conducted a retrospective cohort-study of SARS-CoV-2 positive cases from the first to third wave (March 2020-October 2021) in Yaounde-Cameroon. RT-PCR was carried out on the participants using nasopharyngeal swabs after every 7 days. SARS-CoV-2 positivity duration was evaluated from the first to last positive PCR-test before a negative result. Epi-info V.7.0 was used for data analyses with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

A total of 282 participants were enrolled. The mean age was 41 ± 14 years, with male predominant (62.1%). We had 15.6% symptomatic participants of which 59% had cough. The overall median positivity duration was 15[IQR: 9-23] days with 15[IQR: 13-22] in the first, 17[IQR: 12-26] in the second and 9[IQR: 6-12] in the third wave (p < 0.0001). Positivity duration was significantly higher in males (16 versus 14 days, p = 0.03) those aged [35-45] years (16 days) followed by those ≥ 46 years(15 days); p = 0.008). Positivity duration was not affected by presence or absence of symptoms (p = 0.80). No significant correlation was found with viral load (r = 0.03; p = 0.61). Considering baseline (24.7 ± 7.2Ct) and last viral load (29.3 ± 5.9 Ct), the ΔCt (4.6 ± 1.3) and positivity duration (15 days) revealed a kinetic in viral decay of 0.3 ± 0.087 Ct/day.

A median positivity duration of 15 days is in accordance with viral clearance around 2 weeks for optimal confinement at community-level. Men and/or the elderly stand at higher risk of prolonged infection. Given the viral decay (0.3 Ct daily), we suggest personalized confinement periods. The variability of positivity duration according to waves could be function of strains which could be a factor influencing positivity duration.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging mosquito-borne human pathogen, which poses critical threats to the public health. However, an effective diagnostic method for early CHIKV infection remains scarce. Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) are a novel class of RNAs with important biological functions. They have been shown to be promising biomarkers for many human diseases. In this study, we sought to identify circRNA biomarkers in human peripheral whole blood for the early diagnosis of CHIKV infection.

Candidate circRNA biomarkers were identified by group comparison using a case-control study, which was further validated using an independent cohort. The performance of this signature and its correlation with clinical factors were estimated in both cohorts.

Using two public RNA-seq datasets of CHIKV infection, we developed and validated a 13-circRNA based blood signature that can discriminate CHIKV infectious patients from healthy controls. Furthermore, this blood circRNA signature was correlated with viral load in patients with CHIKV infection. Functional analysis implicated that these biomarker circRNAs were involved in the activation and regulation of immune processes against CHIKV infection.

Collectively, our findings indicated that peripheral blood circRNAs were potential biomarkers for the early diagnosis of CHIKV infection.

The Coronavirus pandemic unveiled the unprecedented need for diagnostic tests to rapidly detect the presence of pathogens in the population. Real-time RT-PCR and other nucleic acid amplification techniques are accurate and sensitive molecular techniques that necessitate quality control strategies and stable quality control materials. To meet this need, Twist Bioscience has developed and released synthetic RNA controls. However, RNA is an inherently unstable molecule needing cold storage, costly shipping, and resource-intensive logistics. Imagene provides a solution to this problem by encapsulating dehydrated RNA inside metallic capsules filled with anhydrous argon, allowing room temperature and eco-friendly storage and shipping. This technology initially developed for DNA storage has been successfully applied to RNA and other biospecimen and extensively validated through real time and accelerated aging. Here, RNA controls produced by Twist Bioscience were encapsulated in RNAshells and distributed to several laboratories that used them for COVID-19 detection tests by amplification. One RT-LAMP procedure, four different RT-PCR devices and 6 different PCR kits were used. The amplification targets were genes E, N; RdRp, Sarbeco-E and Orf1a/b. RNA retrieval was satisfactory, and the detection was reproducible. RNA stability was checked by real-time (3 years at room temperature) and accelerated aging (16h at 90 °C, corresponding to approximately 10 years of storage at 25 °C, according to our previously published Arrhenius study for encapsulated RNA). The results were not significantly different from those for unaged capsules. This room temperature RNA stability allows the preparation and distribution of large strategic batches which can be stored for more than 10 years a long time and used for standardization processes between detection sites. Moreover, this provides the advantage of single-use and field usability across varying temperatures. Consequently, this type of encapsulated synthetic RNA, processed at room temperature, can be used as internal quality control materials for the SARS-Cov-2 virus as well as for detection of other RNA viruses.

Physical activity is protective against chronic disease but whether activity is associated with persistent symptoms in non-hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors is unknown. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity levels and the influence of physical activity on acute COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms in non-hospitalized COVID-19 survivors.

In total, 64 non-hospitalized COVID-19 survivors (45 female participants, 40 ± 18 years) were assessed for activity levels, body composition, and symptoms of COVID-19 8.5 ± 4.7 months post-infection and categorized into two groups: (1) persistent symptoms and (2) no symptoms at the time of testing. Furthermore, 43 of the 64 participants (28 female participants, 46 ± 18 years) completed a follow-up questionnaire online 51.0 ± 39.7 months (4.25 years) post-infection. A subset of 22 COVID-19 survivors (16 female participants, 35 ± 16 years) were matched for age, sex, and body mass index with healthy controls. Physical activity was quantified using (1) self-reported questionnaire (International Physical Activity Questionnaire; IPAQ-SF) at three time periods; prior to COVID-19 infection, at the time of laboratory testing (8.5 ± 4.7 months after infection), and during an online follow-up (51.0 ± 39.7 months, i.e., 4.25 years after infection); and (2) 7 days of wearing an ActiGraph accelerometer following laboratory testing.

Physical activity (IPAQ-SF) declined in COVID-19 survivors from pre-COVID-19 infection to 8.5 ± 4.7 months after infection [3,656 vs. 2,656 metabolic equivalent of task (MET) min/week, 27% decrease, p < 0.001, n = 64] and rebounded to levels similar to pre-COVID-19 infection at 4.25 years after infection (p = 0.068, n = 43). Activity levels quantified with accelerometry did not differ between COVID-19 survivors and controls. However, COVID-19 survivors who reported persistent symptoms 8.5 months after infection (n = 29) engaged in less moderate-vigorous physical activity and steps/day than those without persistent symptoms (n = 27) (37 vs. 49 MET min/day, p = 0.014 and 7,915 vs. 9,540 steps/day, p = 0.014).

Both COVID-19 survivors and matched controls reported reductions in physical activity indicating that lower levels of activity were likely due to the pandemic rather than COVID-19 infection alone. However, those who were most affected by COVID-19 infection with persistent symptoms had the greatest reductions in physical activity, even at ∼8 months and ∼4 years post-infection.

The manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection range from flu-like symptoms to severe lung disease. The consequences of this inflammatory process impact overall function, which can be detected through both short- to long-term assessments. This study aimed to assess the pulmonary functional and structural characteristics of post-SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with mild/moderate, severe, and critical clinical presentations.

An observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study was conducted between 2020 and 2022, including participants with a confirmed diagnosis of coronavirus disease (COVID)-19, with mild/moderate (G1), severe (G2), and critical (G3) clinical presentations, all evaluated at least 3 months after acute infection. Spirometry, impulse oscillometry, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), chest computed tomography, the 6-min walk test (6MWT), hand grip strength, maximum inspiratory pressure, and maximum expiratory pressure were assessed.

We enrolled 210 participants aged 18-70 years, 32.6% of whom were male, with older age observed in G3. The participants were grouped as follows: G1 (42.3%), G2 (25.7%), and G3 (31.9%). Percentage of predicted X5 differed between G1 and G2, being higher in G1. The percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (FVC) according to the Global Lung Function Initiative and its z-score were higher in G1. The FVC by Pereira was lower in G3 compared to G1. The percentage of predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) by Pereira was also lower in G3. The Tiffeneau (FEV1/FVC) index was different among groups, increasing with disease severity. The percentage of predicted forced expiratory flow rate at 25-75% (FEF25-75%) of the FVC and FeNO were both higher in G2 than G1. Chest computed tomography revealed the presence of interstitial abnormalities, associated with disease severity. The respiratory muscle strength evaluation showed an association between higher maximum expiratory pressure values in G3 compared to G1, but no association with maximum inspiratory pressure was observed. The 6MWT distance covered decreased with increasing severity, with a lower percentage of predicted values in G3 compared to G1. The right-hand grip strength was also lower in G3 compared to G1.

Alterations in pulmonary and functional markers were observed in post-COVID-19 evaluations, increasing with disease severity, as seen in G2 and G3. These findings highlight the complexity of post-COVID-19 functional assessments, given the long-term pulmonary sequelae and the consequent impairment of functional capacity.

This study presents the design and analysis of a biosensor for COVID-19 detection, integrating graphene metasurfaces with gold, silver, and GST materials. The proposed sensor architecture combines a square ring resonator with a circular ring resonator, optimized through COMSOL Multiphysics simulations in the infrared regime. The sensor demonstrates exceptional performance characteristics, with absorption values exceeding 99.5% in the primary detection band (4.2-4.6 μm) and approximately 97.5% in the secondary band (5.0-5.5 μm). The device exhibits high sensitivity (4000 nm/RIU), a detection limit of 0.078, and a figure of merit of 16.000 RIU⁻¹ when utilizing crystalline GST as the substrate material. The sensor's performance was further enhanced through machine learning optimization using XGBoost regression, achieving perfect correlation (R² = 100%) between predicted and experimental values across various operational parameters. The dual-band detection mechanism, combined with the integration of advanced materials and machine learning optimization, offers a promising platform for rapid, label-free, and highly sensitive COVID-19 detection. This research contributes to the development of next-generation biosensing technologies for viral detection and disease diagnosis.

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has increased interest in osteoimmunology because of the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on both the immune system and the bone microenvironment. Soluble CD14ST could influence the production of the osteoimmunological regulators of osteoclast differentiation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of sCD14ST in COVID-19's effects on bone remodeling-evaluating, in particular, the correlation with new-generation osteoimmunological biomarkers-and to acquire comprehensive knowledge of the effects of the disease on the immune and skeletal system. Methods: The serum level of sCD14ST was measured in COVID-19-positive and COVID-19-negative patients undergoing orthopedic surgery and correlated with the inflammatory and osteoimmunological biomarkers RANKL/OPG, FGF23, IL-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), sRAGE, and SuPAR. Results: In our patients, sCD14ST showed a strong increase in COVID-19-positive patients, and a significant decrease in tandem with the infection resolution, confirming its diagnostic and prognostic value. sCD14ST was more clinically relevant than the two canonically inflammatory makers used in the clinical protocols, CRP and PCT, and displayed a good positive correlation with FGF23, RANKL/OPG, IL-6, and SuPAR and a negative correlation with sRAGE. Conclusions: Monitoring sCD14ST along with SuPAR may offer valuable insights into immune system dysregulation and bone-related complications in conditions characterized by inflammation. These soluble receptors represent important links between immune activation and bone metabolism, especially in the context of diseases like COVID-19, where the inflammatory response may impact bone fragility.

Background: in the twenty-first century, the emergence of COVID-19 as a highly transmissible pandemic disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 posed a significant threat to humanity. Aims & Objectives: the disease spreads through small respiratory droplets, necessitating the use of various compounds for treatment, with alkaloids being recognized as particularly crucial owing to their diverse pharmaceutical properties. Methodology: in this study, a dataset comprising 100 natural alkaloids obtained from the literature was transformed into 2D chemical structures using Chem Draw 19.1. Subsequently, 3DQSAR studies were conducted on the dataset, resulting in the automatic screening of 50 compounds from the initial pool of 100 compounds. The values of q 2 and r 2 of the validated field-based 3DQSAR model were 0.7186 and 0.971, respectively. The validated atom-based 3DQSAR model has q 2 and r 2 scores of 0.6025 and 0.9845, respectively. Based on the obtained results, 10 compounds with exceptionally active predictive IC50 values were selected for further analysis. Docking experiments were then performed on the selected compounds, and the top three compounds with the highest docking scores were identified as diazepinomicin, (+)-N-methylisococlaurine, and hymenocardine-H. After docking, MM-GBSA was performed on the complexes of diazepinomicin, (+)-N-methylisococlaurine and hymenocardine-H with their corresponding proteins, which resulted in the authentication of the molecular docking scores. MD simulations were also performed to check the flexibility, stability and compactness of these complexes for revalidation of docking scores. Results: finally, ADMET experiments revealed that (+)-N-methylisococlaurine exhibited the most favourable properties among these three compounds.

In immunocompromised patients, pneumonia presents a diagnostic challenge due to diverse etiologies, nonspecific symptoms, overlapping radiological presentation, frequent co-infections, and the potential for rapid progression to severe disease. Thus, timely and accurate diagnosis of all pathogens is crucial. This narrative review explores the latest advancements in microbiological diagnostic techniques for pneumonia in immunocompromised patients. It covers major available microbiological tools for diagnosing both community-acquired and hospital-acquired pneumonia, encompassing a wide spectrum of pathogens including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic. While traditional culture methods remain pivotal in identifying many pneumonia-causing etiologies, their limitations in sensitivity and time to results have led to the rise of non-invasive antigen tests and molecular diagnostics. These are increasingly employed alongside cultures and microscopy for more efficient diagnosis, mainly in viral and fungal infections. Lastly, we report the future of pneumonia diagnostics, exploring the potential of metagenomics and CRISPR/Cas13a for more precise and rapid pathogen detection in immunocompromised populations.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a species of the onion family (Alliaceae) widely used as a food and a folk medicine. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of AGE (aged garlic extract) on pro-inflammatory genes relevant to COVID-19. To this aim, we treated bronchial epithelial IB3-1 cells with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S-protein) or with the COVID-19 BNT162b2 vaccine in the absence or in the presence of AGE. The results obtained demonstrated that AGE is a potent inhibitor of the S-protein-induced expression of the IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 genes. Bio-Plex analysis demonstrated that AGE reduced release of IL-6 and IL-8, which were highly induced by S-protein. No inhibition of cells' growth, toxicity and pro-apoptotic effects were found in AGE-treated cells. The effects of one of the major AGE constituents (S-allyl cysteine, SAC) were studied on the same experimental model systems. SAC was able to inhibit the S-protein-induced expression of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 genes and extracellular release of IL-6 and IL-8, confirming that S-allyl-cysteine is one of the constituents of AGE that is responsible for inhibiting S-protein-induced pro-inflammatory genes. Docking experiments suggest that a possible mechanism of action of SAC is an interference with the activity of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR4, thereby inhibiting NF-κB- and NF-κB-regulated genes, such as IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 genes. These results suggest that both AGE and SAC deserve further experimental efforts to verify their effects on pro-inflammatory genes in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells.

Rhabdomyolysis (RML), characterized by the breakdown of skeletal muscle fibers and the release of muscle contents into the bloodstream, has emerged as a notable complication associated with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and vaccination. Studies have reported an increased incidence of RML in individuals with severe COVID-19 infection. However, the exact mechanisms remain unclear and are believed to involve the host's immune response to the virus. Furthermore, RML has been documented as a rare adverse event following COVID-19 vaccination, particularly with mRNA vaccines. Proposed mechanisms include immune responses triggered by the vaccine and T-cell activation against viral spike proteins. This study aims to review the current literature on the incidence, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and outcomes of RML secondary to COVID-19 infection and vaccination. We identify common risk factors and mechanisms underlying this condition by analyzing case reports, clinical studies, and pharmacovigilance data. Our findings suggest that while RML is a relatively rare adverse event, it warrants attention due to its potential severity and the widespread prevalence of COVID-19 and its vaccines. This review underscores the need for heightened clinical awareness and further research to optimize management strategies and improve patient outcomes in this context.

The impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy remains a critical area of research, with growing evidence suggesting that maternal infection, particularly in the third trimester, may lead to significant complications Aims: The primary aim was to investigate the maternal and neonatal outcome of pregnant Jordanian women with COVID-19. The secondary aim included exploring demographics, obstetrics characteristics, and comorbidities among these women.

A retrospective comprehensive review of the records of 300 cases of pregnant women with COVID-19, who were treated between November 2020 and April 2021 at Queen Alia Military Hospital (a main referral center for patients with COVID-19) in Jordan. All cases were confirmed by the rapid antigen test (RAT) + long polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test used to detect SARS-CoV-2 by amplifying viral RNA from patient samples. Women infected with COVID-19 were categorized into four groups according to the RCOG guidelines for COVID-19 infection in pregnancy: asymptomatic, mild, moderate, and severe cases. All cases were managed following the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists protocol for COVID-19 in pregnancy. Data extracted from patient's records included demographic information, COVID-19 clinical manifestations, obstetric history, diagnostic findings, treatment plans, comorbidities, gestational age at diagnosis, treatment protocols, and maternal and neonatal outcomes.

The mean age was 29.7 years; 98.3% were nonsmokers; 8% had previous miscarriages, and 67.3% had the infection in the third trimester. Iron deficiency anemia affected 30.3%, while 18.3% had comorbidities, mainly hypothyroidism. Most women were asymptomatic 61.7%, but 33% had respiratory symptoms, 4.7% needed intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and 2.7% resulted in maternal deaths. First-trimester and second-trimester miscarriages were recorded in 2.67% and 3.67% of cases, respectively, while preterm labor occurred in 3.0% of pregnancies. Additionally, age and hospitalization duration had a positive correlation with the neonatal outcomes (r = 0.349, p < 0.01), (r = 0.376, p < 0.01), respectively. Furthermore, COVID-19 presentation and treatment options demonstrated a strong positive correlation (p-value <0.01). On the other hand, maternal death had a strong negative correlation with poor neonatal outcomes (r = -0.776, p < 0.01).

The study showed that COVID-19 in pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, is associated with significant neonatal complications, with age, hospitalization duration, and COVID-19 severity strongly impacting outcomes.

To describe and evaluate the multimodal imaging findings in retinal microvascular ischemia associated with COVID-19 infection.

Patients with COVID-19 associated retinal microvascular ischemia and visiting the outpatient Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital from December 2022, to February 2023, were documented and their multimodal images were retrospectively reviewed. Retinal microvascular ischemia was defined as the presence of isolated or multiple focal retinal whitening(s) on color fundus images. Patients with retinal vessel occlusion or retinopathies secondary to systematic disorders diagnosed before infection were excluded.

A total of 32 eyes from 21 patients were included, 24 (75.00 %) eyes with multiple retinal whitenings, while 8 (25.00 %) eyes with isolated lesions. When divided by the types of ischemia, 9 (28.13 %) eyes had only inner retinal involvement (known as cotton wool spot, CWS), 4 (12.50 %) eyes had only middle retinal involvement (known as paracentral acute middle maculopathy, PAMM), and 19 (59.38 %) eyes had both. In addition, 4 (12.50 %) eyes had coincident angular sign of Henle fiber layer hyperreflectivity (ASHH). Patients with hypertension tended to have multiple lesions rather than isolated lesion of retinal microvascular ischemia (P = 0.008). Transient uncontrolled high blood pressure or acute kidney injury was simultaneously detected in some cases.

Ocular manifestation of COVID-19 associated microvascular ischemia can be variable, including CWS, PAMM and ASHH. Multimodal fundus imaging technologies are useful tools to reveal involved retinal layers, extent, and severity. Moreover, ocular manifestations may serve as a window of COVID-19 related microcirculation in other systems throughout the body.

Cases of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-related disease have a history of coronavirus disease 2019 infection or its vaccination before disease onset. Severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been considered to be a trigger of central nervous system autoimmune diseases.

Here we report a 20-year male with MOG-associated transverse myelitis after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. The patient received a near-complete recovery after standard immunological treatments.

Attention should be paid to the evaluation of typical or atypical neurological symptoms that may be triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Severe Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients may develop acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Modified Ginseng Baidu Powder (referred to as Baidu Powder) was used for respiratory system diseases caused by colds. To study the effect of Baidu Powder on protecting ARDS mice model and its underlying active ingredients and targets intervening in COVID-19. The optimal LPS concentration was selected for the induction of mouse ARDS model, and the protective effect of Baidu Powder prophylactic administration on LPS-induced ARDS mouse models was explored by mouse survival time analysis, lung wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio, pathological staining, and inflammatory factor detection. On the basis of pharmacodynamics, the network pharmacological analysis was used for target prediction for future mechanism study. 5 mg/kg LPS was selected for the construction of a mouse ARDS model, based on a mortality rate of 87% and the lung W/D ratio of 5.29 ± 0.23. Prophylactic administration of Baidu Powder at 125 g/L significantly reduced death, lung damage, inflammatory cell infiltration, and cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10) caused by LPS-induced ARDS. The results of network pharmacological analysis showed that 42 target genes of Baidu Powder intervening in COVID-19 were involved in 30 biological processes related to COVID-19 and inflammation, and 11 signaling pathways related to lung diseases or inflammation. 5 mg/kg LPS can successfully establish a mice ARDS disease model; 125 g/L Baidu Powder prophylactic administration does not have toxicity and has a certain effect on protecting ARDS mouse models induced by LPS. Baidu Powder may intervene COVID-19-induced ARDS through multiple targets.

In December 2019, a number of subjects presenting with an unexplained pneumonia-like illness were suspected to have a link to a seafood market in Wuhan, China. Subsequently, this illness was identified as the 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by the World Committee on Virus Classification. Since its initial identification, the virus has rapidly sperad across the globe, posing an extraordinary challenge for the medical community. Currently, the Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is considered the most reliable method for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2. This procedure involves collecting oro-pharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swabs from individuals. Nevertheless, for the early detection of low viral loads, a more sensitive technique, such as droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), has been suggested. Despite the high effectiveness of RT-PCR, there is increasing interest in utilizing highly trained dogs and electronic noses (eNoses) as alternative methods for screening asymptomatic individuals for SARS-CoV-2. These dogs and eNoses have demonstrated high sensitivity and can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enabling them to distinguish between COVID-19 positive and negative individuals. This manuscript recapitulates the potential, advantages, and limitations of employing trained dogs and eNoses for the screening and control of SARS-CoV-2.

To estimate the prevalence and severity of impairments in functional status, fatigue, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among critical COVID-19 survivors one-year after hospital discharge.

A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA statement and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021258356), with searches in eight databases. Observational studies were selected. The prevalence meta-analysis of abnormalities was performed using random-effects models. Risk of bias was evaluated using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute tool.

Twenty studies were included, with data collected between 12 and 13.5 months after hospital discharge and a total of 1828 participants. Of these, 71% were men, and 77.7% were intubated in the intensive care unit (ICU). Impairments and sequelae were identified in varying prevalence and degrees, with greater impact on functional capacity and physical components of fatigue and HRQoL. The prevalence of abnormalities of 32.3% [95% CI 23.9; 41.9] found in the meta-analysis is substantially high. Most studies were classified as having fair and poor quality.

Critical COVID-19 survivors experience impairments in functional status, fatigue, and HRQoL to varying degrees one-year after hospital discharge, particularly among patients who stayed in the ICU and on MV for a prolonged period.

Respiratory distress and failure is a complication of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and tracheostomy may be necessary in cases of prolonged intubation in order to reduce mechanical ventilation duration. However, according to the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery guidelines, which our institution applies, patients should not undergo tracheostomy unless cleared of the virus to reduce its spread among healthcare workers because tracheostomy is an aerosolized procedure. This study aimed to identify the outcomes of prolonged intubation in patients with and without COVID-19 who underwent tracheostomy and to determine the morbidity and mortality rates in both groups.

This retrospective cohort study included adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit of King Fahad Hospital of the University, Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, between March 1 and October 31, 2020. This study compared and analyzed the outcomes of delayed tracheostomy in patients with and without COVID-19 in terms of complication, morbidity, and mortality rates.

Of the 228 study participants, 111 (48.68%) had COVID-19. The mean age of the study participants was 58.67 years (SD = 17.36, max.=93, min.=20), and the majority were males (n = 149, 65.35%). Regarding tracheostomy in patients with COVID-19, 11 (9.91%) patients underwent tracheostomy; however, four (36.36%) of them had prolonged intubation. The mean intensive care unit admission length of stay for tracheostomy patients was 37.17 days, while it was 12.09 days for patients without tracheostomy (t(226)=-9.32, p < 0.001). Regarding prolonged intubation among patients with COVID-19 (n = 7, 6.31%), the complications were as follows: six people (85.71%) had dysphonia, one (14.29%) had vocal cord granuloma, and two (28.57%) had subglottic tracheal stenosis. The mortality rate among our study participants was 51.32%, and the risk was significantly higher in older people (Odds ratio = 1.04, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.02-1.06) and in delayed tracheostomy cases (OR = 2.95, 95% CI = 1.31-6.63). However, COVID-19 status was not significantly related to the risk of mortality.

Delaying tracheostomy increases the risk of mortality. Therefore, we recommend weighing the risks and benefits for each patient to benefit both healthcare workers and patients with COVID-19.

Broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) is indicated in cases of uncertain diagnosis but high suspicion of Sars-Cov-2 infection allowing to collect material for microbiological culture to define the presence of coinfection or super-infection. This prospective study investigated the correlation between chest computed tomography (CT) findings, Covid-19 Reporting and Data System score, and clinical outcomes in Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients who underwent BAL with the aim of predicting outcomes such as lung coinfection, respiratory failure, and hospitalization length based on chest CT abnormalities. Study population included 34 patients (range 38-90 years old; 20 males, 14 females) with a positive nucleic acid amplification test for Covid-19 infection, suitable BAL examination, and good quality chest CT scan in the absence of lung cancer history. Pulmonary coinfections were found in 20.6% of patients, predominantly caused by bacteria. Specific correlations were found between right middle lobe involvement and pulmonary co-infections. Severe lung injury (PaO2/FiO2 ratio of 100-200) was associated with substantial involvement of right middle, right upper, and left lower lobes. No significant correlation was found between chest CT findings and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, procalcitonin) or hospitalization length of stay. Specific chest CT patterns, especially in right middle lobe, could serve as indicators for the presence of co-infections and disease severity in noncritically ill Covid-19 patients, aiding clinicians in timely interventions and personalized treatment strategies.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is characterized by highly heterogeneous manifestations ranging from asymptomatic cases to death for still incompletely understood reasons. As part of the IMmunoPhenotyping Assessment in a COVID-19 Cohort study, we mapped the plasma proteomes of 1117 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 from 15 hospitals across the United States. Up to six samples were collected within ~28 days of hospitalization resulting in one of the largest COVID-19 plasma proteomics cohorts with 2934 samples. Using perchloric acid to deplete the most abundant plasma proteins allowed for detecting 2910 proteins. Our findings show that increased levels of neutrophil extracellular trap and heart damage markers are associated with fatal outcomes. Our analysis also identified prognostic biomarkers for worsening severity and death. Our comprehensive longitudinal plasma proteomics study, involving 1117 participants and 2934 samples, allowed for testing the generalizability of the findings of many previous COVID-19 plasma proteomics studies using much smaller cohorts.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the global pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 virus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, has caused millions of infections and fatalities worldwide. Extensive SARS-CoV-2 research has been conducted to develop therapeutic drugs and prophylactic vaccines, and even though some drugs have been approved to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection, treatment efficacy remains limited. Therefore, preventive vaccination has been implemented on a global scale and represents the primary approach to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Approved vaccines vary in composition, although vaccine design has been based on either the key viral structural (spike) protein or viral components carrying this protein. Therefore, mutations of the virus, particularly mutations in the S protein, severely compromise the effectiveness of current vaccines and the ability to control COVID-19 infection. This review begins by describing the SARS-CoV-2 viral composition, the mechanism of infection, the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, the host defence responses against infection and the most common vaccine designs. Next, this review summarizes the common mutations of SARS-CoV-2 and how these mutations change viral properties, confer immune escape and influence vaccine efficacy. Finally, this review discusses global strategies that have been employed to mitigate the decreases in vaccine efficacy encountered against new variants.

SARS-CoV-2 is usually diagnosed from naso-/oropharyngeal swabs which are uncomfortable and prone to false results. This study investigated a novel diagnostic approach to Covid-19 measuring volatile organic compounds (VOC) from patients' urine.

Between June 2020 and February 2021, 84 patients with positive RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 were recruited as well as 54 symptomatic individuals with negative RT-PCR. Midstream urine samples were obtained for VOC analysis using ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) which detects individual molecular components of a gas sample based on their size, configuration, and charge after ionization.

Peak analysis of the 84 Covid and 54 control samples showed good group separation. In total, 37 individual specific peaks were identified, 5 of which (P134, 198, 135, 75, 136) accounted for significant differences between groups, resulting in sensitivities of 89-94% and specificities of 82-94%. A decision tree was generated from the relevant peaks, leading to a combined sensitivity and specificity of 98% each.

VOC-based diagnosis can establish a reliable separation between urine samples of Covid-19 patients and negative controls. Molecular peaks which apparently are disease-specific were identified. IMS is an additional non-invasive and cheap device for the diagnosis of this ongoing endemic infection. Further studies are needed to validate sensitivity and specificity.

Background: Long COVID presents a concern for collegiate athletes, potentially impacting sensorimotor processing and motor fitness. This study aimed to assess these effects. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 60 athletes diagnosed with Long COVID and 60 controls. Sensorimotor processing and integration were evaluated using neurophysiological variables (N13, P14, N20, P27, and N30), while motor fitness was assessed through balance, agility, and vertical jump testing. T-tests compared groups, and Pearson's correlations explored relationships. Results: Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed in neurophysiological variables and motor fitness between Long COVID and control groups. Fatigue correlated positively (p < 0.001) with neurophysiological variables in Long COVID cases but not with motor fitness (p = 0.08, p = 0.07, p = 0.09). Conclusions: Collegiate athletes with Long COVID exhibit abnormal sensorimotor processing, integration, and diminished motor fitness compared to uninfected peers. The fatigue severity of Long COVID correlates with neurophysiological changes, suggesting a link between sensorimotor deficits and fatigue. Targeted interventions for sensorimotor deficits and fatigue management are crucial for athletes recovering from Long COVID. This study underscores the importance of addressing these issues to optimize the recovery and performance of collegiate athletes affected by Long COVID.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is continuously posing high global public health concerns due to its high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to construct a convenient risk model for predicting in-hospital mortality of COVID-19 Omicron variant. A total of 1324 hospitalized patients with Omicron variant were enrolled from Beijing Anzhen Hospital. During hospitalization, the Omicron variant mortality rate was found to be 24.4%. Using the datasets of clinical demographics and laboratory tests, three machine learning algorithms, including best subset selection, stepwise selection, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analyses were employed to identify the potential predictors of in-hospital mortality. The results found that a panel of twenty-four clinical variables (including age, hyperlipemia, stroke, tumor, and several cardiovascular markers) identified by stepwise selection model exhibited significant performances in predicting the in-hospital mortality of COVID-19. The resultant nomogram showed good discrimination, highlighted by the areas under the curve values of 0.88 for 10 days, 0.81 for 20 days, and 0.82 for 30 days, respectively. Furthermore, decision curve analysis showed a significant reliability and precision for the established stepwise selection model. Collectively, this study developed an accurate and convenience risk model for predicting the in-hospital mortality of COVID-19 Omicron.

COVID-19 may be associated with orthopedic symptoms, including myalgia and joint pain. There are reports of reactive arthritis and acute arthritis diagnosed after COVID-19; however, COVID-19-associated pyogenic arthritis has not been reported.

We treated a young woman with secondary pyogenic hip arthritis that started after COVID-19. The patient was a 23-year-old woman who developed acute pain in the right hip 9 days after being diagnosed with COVID-19. Blood cultures revealed methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus and contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed joint effusion in the right hip. Although the joint fluid culture results were negative, we suspected pyogenic arthritis of the hip joint and performed curettage and continuous irrigation of the right hip joint. Intraoperative histopathological examination of the synovial membrane revealed numerous neutrophils with segmental nuclei, consistent with a diagnosis of pyogenic arthritis.

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of probable secondary pyogenic hip arthritis in a patient with COVID-19.

During the COVID-19 pandemic governments worldwide implemented contagion-containing measures (i.e., physical distancing, hand sanitizing, mask wearing and quarantine). The similarities between these measures and obsessive-compulsive phenomenology (e.g., contamination concerns and repetitive washing and/or checking) led to inquiries about the frequency with which obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) were encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to ascertain the prevalence of OCS in individuals of any age during the pandemic (i.e., any obsessive-compulsive symptoms that are clinically significant as shown by a score above the cut-off score of a scale, without necessarily fulfilling the diagnostic threshold for a diagnosis of OCD). A systematic search of relevant databases identified 35 studies, which were included in the systematic review following our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Most of the studies were conducted in adults from the general population and adopted an online assessment method, with 32 studies being eligible for meta-analysis. The meta-analysis resulted in a 20% average prevalence of OCS during the pandemic, with very high heterogeneity among the included studies (I2 99.6%). The highest prevalence of OCS was found in pregnant women (36%, n = 5), followed by individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 (22%, n = 4) and general population (22%, n = 19), undergraduates (21%, n = 5), and healthcare workers (5%, n = 5). The prevalence rates of OCS were higher in Asia (26%, n = 17) and North America (25%, n = 3) than in Europe (13%, n = 12) and Africa (7%, n = 4). Among the studies included, rates appeared higher in certain countries, though this difference did not reach statistical significance and was limited by very few studies conducted in certain countries. When compared to pre-pandemic rates, there seemed to be higher rates of OCS during the COVID-19 pandemic in Asia, Europe, and pregnant women. These findings are discussed considering the impact of the pandemic and contagion-containing measures on the perception and reporting of OCS, and susceptibility of the vulnerable population groups to experiencing OCS during the pandemic.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a significant impact on global health and healthcare systems. This retrospective study aimed to assess the association between biochemical parameters and outcomes in COVID-19 patients in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

After establishing the inclusion criteria and obtaining ethical approval, data from 156 reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 patients were collected from electronic medical records from a general hospital in Samtah, Jazan, from April 2020 to October 2021. The collected data included patient demographics and liver, kidney, heart, and electrolyte function marker levels. Descriptive, inferential, and principal component analyses were conducted.

Survival rates varied according to age and body mass index (BMI). Statistical analysis demonstrated that the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), sodium (Na), potassium (K), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), creatine kinase (CK), CK myocardial band (MB), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the reference values, as assessed using the one-sample t-test. Principal component analysis (PCA) also revealed an underlying pattern in the variation of these biochemical markers. These findings suggest that certain biochemical parameters may serve as useful indicators for monitoring the condition of COVID-19 patients.

This retrospective study in Jazan, Saudi Arabia highlights the association between biochemical parameters and outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Elevated levels of markers of liver, kidney, heart, and electrolyte function suggest organ damage and dysregulation. The pattern identified through PCA provides insights into disease severity. Monitoring these parameters may serve as valuable indicators for assessing COVID-19 patients. Further research is needed to validate these findings, explore their potential for personalized treatment strategies, and improve patient outcomes during the ongoing pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic, driven by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variants, highlights the important role of understanding host-viral molecular interactions influencing infection outcomes. Alternative splicing post-infection can impact both host responses and viral replication. We analyzed RNA splicing patterns in immune cells across various SARS-CoV-2 variants, considering immunization status. Using a dataset of 190 RNA-seq samples from our prior studies, we observed a substantial deactivation of alternative splicing and RNA splicing-related genes in COVID-19 patients. The alterations varied significantly depending on the infecting variant and immunization history. Notably, Alpha or Beta-infected patients differed from controls, while Omicron-infected patients displayed a splicing profile closer to controls. Particularly, vaccinated Omicron-infected individuals showed a distinct dynamic in alternative splicing patterns not widely shared among other groups. Our findings underscore the intricate interplay between SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccination-induced immunity, and alternative splicing, emphasizing the need for further investigations to deepen understanding and guide therapeutic development.

Background: The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic presented major challenges for people living with diabetes. People with diabetes were identified as being at increased risk of serious illness from COVID-19. The lockdown and preventive measures, including social distancing measures, implemented worldwide to limit the spread of COVID-19 had negatively impacted access to diabetes care, including self-management services, challenging the way modern medicine had been practiced for decades. This article aims to shed light on the implementation and evaluation of the Diabetes hotline service run by trained diabetes patient educators during the pandemic in Qatar. Methods: The logic model is utilized to showcase the implemented strategies/activities and the output monitoring process. An online survey among hotline users was undertaken to gather feedback on patients' overall experience of using the service and physician feedback. Results: Of the 464 patients surveyed, over 92% stated that they would recommend the hotline service to others, and over 90% indicated that they considered the hotline a trusted and reliable resource for diabetes education and advice. Conclusion: It is expected that the lessons learned from maintaining health care delivery services during the COVID-19 pandemic have created new ways of providing standard care and meeting the needs of people with diabetes. Future research should study the clinical outcomes for patients who benefited from the hotline services and the impact on the well-being of people with diabetes.

The urgent need for accurate COVID-19 diagnostics has led to the development of various SARS-CoV-2 detection technologies. Real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) remains a reliable viral gene detection technique, while other molecular methods, including nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAATs) and isothermal amplification techniques, provide diverse and effective approaches. Serological assays, detecting antibodies in response to viral infection, are crucial for disease surveillance. Saliva-based immunoassays show promise for surveillance purposes. The efficiency of SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection varies, with IgM indicating recent exposure and IgG offering prolonged detectability. Various rapid tests, including lateral-flow immunoassays, present opportunities for quick diagnosis, but their clinical significance requires validation through further studies. Challenges include variations in specificity and sensitivity among testing platforms and evolving assay sensitivities over time. SARS-CoV-2 antigens, particularly the N and S proteins, play a crucial role in diagnostic methods. Innovative approaches, such as nanozyme-based assays and specific nucleotide aptamers, offer enhanced sensitivity and flexibility. In conclusion, ongoing advancements in SARS-CoV-2 detection methods contribute to the global effort in combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 pneumonia is associated with SIRS and hypercatabolism. The aim of this study was to determine muscle loss during the acute phase of COVID-19 pneumonia and evaluate long-term sequelae in discharged patients.

A total of 16 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and respiratory insufficiency were included in the study. Selected parameters (weight, BMI, LBM = lean body mass, albumin, CRP, NLR = neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, ultrasound measured thickness of rectus femoris muscle = US RF and rectus femoris + vastus intermedius = US RF + VI, handgrip strength, quality of life = EQ-5D questionnaire, and activities of daily living = Barthel's ADLs) were recorded on admission, discharge, and 1, 3, and 6 months after discharge.

The most significant changes were between hospital admission and discharge: US RF and RF + VI (-1.28 ± 1.97 mm, p = 0.046; -1.76 ± 2.94 mm, p = 0.05), EQ-5D score (14.6 ± 19.2, p = 0.02), and ADLs (17.1 ± 22.6; p = 0.02). There was a significant positive correlation between US RF + VI and handgrip strength (p = 0.014) and a negative correlation between weight and Barthel index (p = 0.012). There was an association between muscle function with an EQ-5D score and ADLs during outpatient check-ups, most noticeably between handgrip strength, US RF+VI, and ADLs (p = 0.08; p = 0.1, respectively). Conclusions: In patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, there is a significant reduction of health-related quality of life, impaired even 6 months after hospital discharge, influenced mainly by muscle loss. During the hospital stay, there was a significant muscle mass reduction. Ultrasound measurement of thigh muscle thickness may be a useful method to monitor muscle loss.

Complete blood count, C-reactive protein and transaminases are routine laboratory parameters investigated in children with infections, including COVID 19. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of these parameters in children diagnosed with COVID 19.

At the time of admission, children with COVID 19 suggestive symptoms were tested RT-PCR for SARS CoV-2 and were allocated to either the study group (RT-PCR SARS CoV-2 positive) or control group (RT-PCR SARS CoV-2 negative). All children were evaluated by complete blood count, CRP, and transaminases.

When comparing the two groups, we identified significantly lower values for leukocytes (p < 0.001), neutrophils (p < 0.001), lymphocytes (p < 0.001) and thrombocytes (p = 0.014), but no significantly different values for CRP (p = 0.916) and monocytes (p = 0.082). A diagnostic score for COVID-19 was compiled using the abovementioned parameters-presence of fever, number of lymphocytes and aspartate-aminotransferase. Performance was tested, showing a positive discrimination value (AUC of 0.703)-81.5% sensitivity, 50.6% specificity.

The leukocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes have significantly lower values in COVID-19 children. The proposed score based on the presence of fever the values of lymphocytes and AST has a good sensitivity in predicting COVID-19 infection.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a global pandemic. Early and accurate diagnosis and quarantine remain the most effective mitigation strategy. Although reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis, recent studies suggest that nucleic acids were undetectable in a significant number of cases with clinical features of COVID-19.Serological assays for SARS-CoV-2 play a role in diagnosis of COVID-19, in understanding viral epidemiology and screening convalescent sera for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, to better understand the immune response to the virus, and to assess the degree and duration of the response of specific antibodies. In this article, we retrieved PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and WEB OF SCI databases for articles and reviews published before December 1, 2022. Using "IgM, IgG,IgA, neutralizing antibody, specific antibody,COVID-19, dynamic characteristics" as keywords, and comprehensively reviewed on their basis.According to the authors' criteria, only articles deemed relevant were included, covering original articles, case series, experimental studies, reviews, and case reports. Articles on performance evaluation, opinion pieces, and technical issues were excluded. From the onset of COVID-19 symptoms, the median time of seroconversion was 11 days for immunoglobulin A (IgA), the median time of peak antibody titer was 23 (16-30 days) for IgA.Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is detected prior to immunoglobulin G (IgG), peaking 2-5 weeks post symptom onset and detectable for a minimum of 8 weeks in the immunocompetent.Neutralizing antibodies were earliest detectable within 6-7 days following disease onset, with levels increasing until days 14-22 before levelling and then decreasing, but titres were lower in clinically mild disease. Different clinical types of patients showed different antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2, with severe COVID-19 patients > non-severe COVID-19 patients > asymptomatic infected persons, but no difference in the early stage of the disease. Usually, IgM and IgA antibodies are detectable earlier than IgG antibodies.IgA antibodys plays an important role in local mucosal immunity.Detection of IgM antibodies tends to indicate recent exposure to SARS-CoV-2, whereas the detection of COVID-19 IgG antibodies indicates virus exposure some time ago. The detection of potent neutralizing antibodies in convalescent plasma is important in the context of development of therapeutics and vaccines.With the emergence of immune escape variants of SARS-CoV-2, humoral immunity is being challenged, and a detailed understanding of Specific antibodies is critical to guide vaccine design strategies and antibody-mediated therapies.

People who are homeless might be more at risk for getting infected by the SARS-COV-2 virus or for experiencing severe course of the infection due to their often more fragile health, unmet health needs, and poorer living conditions. This study aims to gain insight into the morbidity and mortality of the SARS-COV-2 virus among the homeless population in the Netherlands.

In this observational retrospective study, anonymized data about patients experiencing homelessness who contacted a street doctor were gathered in nine cities in the Netherlands from March 2020 until March 2021. Data included patient characteristics, COVID-19 -related symptoms, diagnosis, and disease course of a SARS-COV-2 infection.

Of the total 1419 patients in whom 1544 COVID-19 related consults were registered, 16% tested positive for a SARS-COV-2 infection, and an additional 12% were clinically suspected of having a SARS-COV-2 infection but were seen before there were any COVID-19 tests available in General Practice or for some other reason not tested. Significantly more (p = <0.001) patients born outside the European Union tested positive for a SARS-COV-2 infection (36%) compared to the remainder of the population (20%). The most discerning symptom for being tested positive was loss of taste and smell (29% vs 6% in the negative tested group and 2% in the suspected group), fever (24% vs 13% in the negative tested group but 18% in the suspected group), and headache (26% vs 17% resp 14%), and fatigue (29% vs 20 resp 17%). Cough, dyspnea and common cold were more often seen in the clinically suspected but not tested group). Of the group that tested positive for a SARS-COV-2 infection, 10% were hospitalized. Two patients were admitted to intensive care and one patient died. Of patients who were clinically suspected of a SARS-COV-2 infection, 5% were hospitalized.

COVID-19 was not widespread among people experiencing homelessness in the Netherlands, but the number of hospitalizations in this study was relatively high. Monitoring this population during a pandemic is necessary to take prompt action when needed.

In order to deepen our understanding of the virus and help guide the creation of efficient therapies, this study uses artificial intelligence tools to thoroughly explore the genetic sequences of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The process starts by using the Fuzzy Closure Miner for Frequent Itemsets (FCMFI) on a large corpus of SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequences to reveal hidden patterns, including nucleotides base sequences, repeating motifs, and corresponding interchanges. Then, using the Nucleotide Sequence Comprehension Engine (NSCE) technique, we were able to precisely define the genomic areas for mutation analysis. Structured and unstructured proteins are both strongly impacted by virus mutations, with spike proteins that are linked to the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia being particularly affected. Notably, the Mutagenic Anomaly Detector shows a 65 % efficiency boost in computing genome mutation rates compared to conventional point mutation analysis, while GenoAnalyzer offers a remarkable 93.33 % improvement over existing approaches in recognizing common genomic sequence patterns. These results highlight the potential of FCMFI to reveal complex genomic patterns and significant insights in COVID-19 genetic sequences when combined with mutation analysis. The Mutagenic Anomaly Detector and GenoAnalyzer show promise for revealing hidden genomic patterns and precisely estimating the SARS-CoV-2 mutation rate.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a disease that has become a regular part of care by health services. In the beginning, health services faced immense pressure due to new disease exposure, irregular schedules, and high work stress for healthcare workers. Unfortunately, their mental health was not adequately safeguarded, and there are few healthcare units that screen staff for depression and anxiety.

The objective of this study is to describe the prevalence and factors associated with anxiety and depression diagnoses among healthcare workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in which depression (Beck questionnaire) and anxiety (Hamilton questionnaire) were investigated in health staff, after providing informed consent. This study was carried out during November and December 2022. All workers in all areas of a first-level unit were invited to participate in this research, so no sample calculation or sampling technique was required. Statistical analysis was performed using X2 and Student's t-test.

Among the 232 workers surveyed, the prevalence of mild anxiety, severe anxiety, and certain levels of depression was 42.1%, 33.5%, and 18.9%, respectively. The study revealed that smoking is associated with a higher risk of anxiety diagnosis (OR=4; CI95%=1.3-12.7). A higher score on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (OR=1.07; CI95%=1.04-1.11) as well as not being permanent staff (OR=3.34; CI95%=1.2-9.3) was found associated with depression diagnosis.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic increased the stress and pressure on healthcare workers. Thus, early detection, timely treatment, and effective prevention measures are necessary for safeguarding health status and the provision of healthcare services.

Identifying patients who may develop severe COVID-19 has been of interest to clinical physicians since it facilitates personalized treatment and optimizes the allocation of medical resources. In this study, multi-gene genetic programming (MGGP), as an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tool, was used to determine the importance of laboratory predictors in the prognosis of COVID-19 patients. The present retrospective study was conducted on 1455 patients with COVID-19 (727 males and 728 females), who were admitted to Allameh Behlool Gonabadi Hospital, Gonabad, Iran in 2020-2021. For each patient, the demographic characteristics, common laboratory tests at the time of admission, duration of hospitalization, admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and mortality were collected through the electronic information system of the hospital. Then, the data were normalized and randomly divided into training and test data. Furthermore, mathematical prediction models were developed by MGGP for each gender. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the significance of input parameters on the COVID-19 prognosis. Based on the achieved results, MGGP is able to predict the mortality of COVID-19 patients with an accuracy of 60-92%, the duration of hospital stay with an accuracy of 53-65%, and admission to the ICU with an accuracy of 76-91%, using common hematological tests at the time of admission. Also, sensitivity analysis indicated that blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) play key roles in the prognosis of COVID-19 patients. AI techniques, such as MGGP, can be used in the triage and prognosis prediction of COVID-19 patients. In addition, due to the sensitivity of BUN and AST in the estimation models, further studies on the role of the mentioned parameters in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 are recommended.

COVID-19 infection and its associated consequence, known as long-COVID, lead to a significant burden on the global healthcare system and limitations in people's personal and work lives. This study aims to provide further insight into the impact of acute and ongoing COVID-19 symptoms and investigates the role of patients' gender and vaccination status.

416 individuals (73.9% female) between the ages of 16 and 80 years (M = 44.18, SD = 12.90) with self-reported symptoms of long-COVID participated in an online survey conducted between March and May 2022.

6.0%, 74.3%, and 19.7% of all respondents reported having had an asymptomatic, mild, or severe acute illness, respectively. Out of all participants, 7.8% required hospitalization. The most prevalent symptoms during the acute infection (Mdn = 23.50 symptoms, IQR = 13-39) included fatigue, exhaustion, cough, brain fog, and memory problems. The median long-COVID disease duration was 12.10 months (IQR = 2.8-17.4). Among 64 inquired long-COVID symptoms (Mdn = 17.00 symptoms, IQR = 9-27), participants reported fatigue, exhaustion, memory problems, brain fog, and dyspnea as the most common ongoing symptoms, which were generally experienced as fluctuating and deteriorating after physical or cognitive activity. Common consequences of long-COVID included financial losses (40.5%), changes in the participants' profession (41.0%), stress resistance (87.5%), sexual life (38.1%), and mood (72.1%), as well as breathing difficulties (41.3%), or an increased drug intake (e.g., medicine, alcohol; 44.6%). In addition, vaccinated individuals exhibited a shorter acute illness duration and an earlier onset of long-COVID symptoms. In general, women reported more long-COVID symptoms than men.

Long-COVID represents a heterogeneous disease and impacts multiple life aspects of those affected. Tailored rehabilitation programs targeting the plurality of physical and mental symptoms are needed.