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Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic
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Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic

A special issue of International Journal of Translational Medicine (ISSN 2673-8937).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2022) | Viewed by 26779

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Yoshiyasu Takefuji

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Data Science Department, Musashino University, Tokyo 1358181, Japan
Interests: cyber-security; neural computing; energy harvesting; IoT; AI; applied mathematics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Urgent action is needed against the COVID-19 pandemic, as variants due to spike mutations and immune escape are spreading globally. A total of 5,233,336 deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported worldwide as of 30 November 2021. Vaccines are available to the public but are not sufficient to mitigate the pandemic. Translational medicine should play an important role in mitigating and ending the pandemic. This Special Issue presents data science results and strategies to mitigate and end pandemics from the perspective of translational medicine.

Any research to mitigate the pandemic is welcome.

Prof. Dr. Yoshiyasu Takefuji
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Translational Medicine is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • data science
  • mitigating the pandemic
  • vaccines
  • pharmacological/Non-pharmacological approach

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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6 pages, 956 KiB  
Communication
How to Avoid False-Negative and False-Positive COVID-19 PCR Testing
by Irina Fevraleva, Olga Glinshchikova, Tatiana Makarik and Andrey Sudarikov
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(2), 204-209; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2020018 - 1 Jun 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4982
Abstract
Background: Up to 40% of test results for COVID-19 in the presence of clinical manifestations of the disease might be negative. The reason for a false-negative result might originate from any step of the analysis: poor-quality or empty swab, poor RNA isolation, inactivation [...] Read more.
Background: Up to 40% of test results for COVID-19 in the presence of clinical manifestations of the disease might be negative. The reason for a false-negative result might originate from any step of the analysis: poor-quality or empty swab, poor RNA isolation, inactivation of reverse transcriptase or Taq polymerase in the test. Methods: Here we describe a PCR approach for SARS-CoV-2 detection with swab quality and integrity controlled by human ABL1 mRNA amplification. Designed primers work with the cDNA of the ABL1 gene, not genomic DNA. Results: The simultaneous appearance of three signals corresponding to the nucleocapsid, spike, and ABL1 gene indicates infection with the Omicron strain. The amplification of ABL1 gene and nucleocapsid only indicate other than Omicron infection. The appearance of ABL1 amplification only indicates a true negative result for SARS-CoV-2. All other variants are null and void. Conclusions: A system has been developed for multiplex PCR diagnostics of SARS-CoV-2, which makes it possible to eliminate errors leading to false-negative and false-positive results at all stages of analysis. This is accomplished by the presence of specific primers for human RNA, controlling proper swab application, handling, and all the stages of RT-PCR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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Review

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11 pages, 322 KiB  
Review
The In Vitro Virucidal Effects of Mouthwashes on SARS-CoV-2
by Miriam Ting and Jon B. Suzuki
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(3), 387-397; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2030030 - 31 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2922
Abstract
Oral antiseptic mouthwashes have been widely used for their antibacterial activity. As a result of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the antiviral properties of these oral antiseptics have been aggressively studied. To demonstrate the direct antiviral activity of mouthwashes against SARS-CoV-2, this review will focus [...] Read more.
Oral antiseptic mouthwashes have been widely used for their antibacterial activity. As a result of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the antiviral properties of these oral antiseptics have been aggressively studied. To demonstrate the direct antiviral activity of mouthwashes against SARS-CoV-2, this review will focus on the in vitro virucidal effects of these mouthwashes. Knowledge of the type, concentration, and exposure time of available mouthwashes can provide insights into effective protocols for their clinical use. With an understanding of the characteristics of each oral antiseptic mouthwash, proper mouthwash selection against SARS-CoV-2 may become a useful adjunct to personal protective equipment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
34 pages, 594 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Role of Serology Testing to Strengthen Vaccination Initiatives and Policies for COVID-19 in Asia Pacific Countries and Territories: A Discussion Paper
by Tawee Chotpitayasunondh, Dale Andrew Fisher, Po-Ren Hsueh, Ping-Ing Lee, Katya Nogales Crespo and Kiat Ruxrungtham
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(3), 275-308; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2030024 - 22 Jun 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3109
Abstract
This paper provides a comprehensive summary of evidence to explore and position the role of serology testing in the context of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) immunization and policy response in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The document builds on a review of academic literature [...] Read more.
This paper provides a comprehensive summary of evidence to explore and position the role of serology testing in the context of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) immunization and policy response in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The document builds on a review of academic literature and existing policies followed by a process of discussion, validation, and feedback by a group of six experts. Six countries and territories—Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Taiwan—were sampled to highlight the differing contexts and scenarios in the region. The review includes an overview of (1) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the emergence of Variants of Concern (VOCs), especially Omicron, (2) the introduction of immunization, (3) the available testing options and potential use of serology testing, (4) the landscape of guidelines and recommendations for their use, and (5) the barriers and challenges to implementing serology testing as a tool to support COVID-19 immunization. Based on the findings, the co-authors propose a set of recommendations to resolve knowledge gaps, to include the use of serology testing as part of the policy response, and to ensure adequate means of implementation. This paper’s target audience includes members of the academic community, medical societies, health providers and practitioners, and decision-makers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
12 pages, 1244 KiB  
Review
Is the COVID-19 Pandemic Over? The Current Status of Boosters, Immunosenescence, Long Haul COVID, and Systemic Complications
by Miriam Ting and Jon B. Suzuki
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(2), 230-241; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2020021 - 16 Jun 2022
Viewed by 2113
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), appears to be diminishing in infectivity and hospitalizations in the United States and many parts of the world. This review will provide current information on the pathogenesis of [...] Read more.
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), appears to be diminishing in infectivity and hospitalizations in the United States and many parts of the world. This review will provide current information on the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 and long haul COVID, emerging research on systemic complications, and antibody responses of vaccines and boosters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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10 pages, 790 KiB  
Review
Enterococcus and COVID-19: The Emergence of a Perfect Storm?
by Dan Alexandru Toc, Razvan Marian Mihaila, Alexandru Botan, Carina Nicoleta Bobohalma, Giulia Andreea Risteiu, Bogdan Nicolae Simut-Cacuci, Bianca Steorobelea, Stefan Troanca and Lia Monica Junie
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(2), 220-229; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2020020 - 7 Jun 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3571
Abstract
(1) Background: Based on the uncontrolled use of antibiotics and the lack of worldwide-accepted healthcare policies, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided the best premises for the emergence of life-threatening infections. Based on changes described in the intestinal microbiome, showing an increased number of [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Based on the uncontrolled use of antibiotics and the lack of worldwide-accepted healthcare policies, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided the best premises for the emergence of life-threatening infections. Based on changes described in the intestinal microbiome, showing an increased number of Enterococcus bacteria and increased intestinal permeability due to viral infection, infections with Enterococcus have taken the spotlight in the healthcare setting; (2) Methods: We conducted a brief review in order to analyze the relationship between the two pathogens: the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the Enterococcus bacterial genus. We searched in PubMed, the Cochrane Library electronic database and MedNar and included twenty-one studies based on relevance; (3) Results: The existing studies show a statistically significant difference in the composition of the intestinal microbiome, favoring Enterococcus genus, when compared to a control group. Changes also seem to persist over a period of time, suggesting possible implications for long COVID. Regarding bloodstream infections, Enterococcus is statistically significantly isolated more often when compared to the pre-COVID-19 era, and to a control group of non-COVID-19 patients. (4) Conclusions: The intimate synergy between COVID-19 and Enterococcus has the potential to pose a real threat to human healthcare, and more extensive research is needed to explore the relationship between these two pathogens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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12 pages, 993 KiB  
Review
Can Similarities between the Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia and COVID-19 Increase the Understanding of COVID-19?
by Valentina Giardini, Carlo Gambacorti-Passerini, Marco Casati, Andrea Carrer and Patrizia Vergani
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(2), 186-197; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2020016 - 6 May 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5623
Abstract
COVID-19 has been primarily identified as a respiratory infection characterized by signs and symptoms associated with the dysfunction of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). This is attributed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus invading the respiratory mucosa via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which is an important [...] Read more.
COVID-19 has been primarily identified as a respiratory infection characterized by signs and symptoms associated with the dysfunction of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). This is attributed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus invading the respiratory mucosa via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which is an important element of the RAS. Meanwhile, preeclampsia is an obstetric pathology that, surprisingly, resembles the pathology of COVID-19. It is a systemic syndrome that occurs during the second half of pregnancy and is determined to be a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. This disease typically presents with new-onset hypertension and proteinuria or other specific end-organ dysfunctions. RAS-mediated mechanisms may explain its primary clinical-pathological features, which are suggestive of an underlying microvascular dysfunction in both diseases, with induction of vasculopathy, coagulopathy, and inflammation. In this report, we review the medical literature on this subject. Further, the underlying similarities between the two conditions are discussed to assess preeclampsia as a model for COVID-19. These considerations are valid in the case of original SARS-CoV-2 primary infection. Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants as well as the vaccination could alter various aspects of the virus biology, including human ACE-2 receptor binding affinity and therefore the RAS mediated consequences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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Other

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12 pages, 985 KiB  
Tutorial
Set Operations in Python for Translational Medicine
by Yoshiyasu Takefuji
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(2), 174-185; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2020015 - 29 Apr 2022
Viewed by 3087
Abstract
This is the world’s first tutorial article on Python programing on set operations for beginners and practitioners in translational medicine or medicine in general. This tutorial will allow researchers to demonstrate and showcase their tools on PyPI packages around the world. Via the [...] Read more.
This is the world’s first tutorial article on Python programing on set operations for beginners and practitioners in translational medicine or medicine in general. This tutorial will allow researchers to demonstrate and showcase their tools on PyPI packages around the world. Via the PyPI packaging, a Python application with a single source code can run on Windows, MacOS, and Linux operating systems. In addition to the PyPI packaging, the reproducibility and quality of the source code must be guaranteed. This paper shows how to publish the Python application in Code Ocean after the PyPI packaging. Code Ocean is used in IEEE, Springer, and Elsevier for software reproducibility validation. First, programmers must understand how to scrape a dataset over the Internet. Second, the dataset files must be read in Python. Third, a program must be built to compute the target values using set operations. Fourth, the Python program must be converted to the PyPI package. Finally, the PyPI package is uploaded. Code Ocean plays a key role in publishing validation for software reproducibility. This paper depicts a vaers executable package as an example for calculating the number of deaths due to COVID-19 vaccines. Calculations were based on gender (male and female), age group, and vaccine group (Moderna, Pfizer, and Novartis), respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine Approach against the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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