Viruses

Research

30 pages, 1367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discovery of Highly Potent Fusion Inhibitors with Potential Pan-Coronavirus Activity That Effectively Inhibit Major COVID-19 Variants of Concern (VOCs) in Pseudovirus-Based Assays

by Francesca Curreli, Shahad Ahmed, Sofia M. B. Victor, Aleksandra Drelich, Siva S. Panda, Andrea Altieri, Alexander V. Kurkin, Chien-Te K. Tseng, Christopher D. Hillyer and Asim K. Debnath

Viruses 2022, 14(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14010069 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3729

Abstract

We report the discovery of several highly potent small molecules with low-nM potency against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV; lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀: 13 nM), SARS-CoV-2 (IC₅₀: 23 nM), and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV; IC [...] Read more.

We report the discovery of several highly potent small molecules with low-nM potency against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV; lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀: 13 nM), SARS-CoV-2 (IC₅₀: 23 nM), and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV; IC₅₀: 76 nM) in pseudovirus-based assays with excellent selectivity index (SI) values (>5000), demonstrating potential pan-coronavirus inhibitory activities. Some compounds showed 100% inhibition against the cytopathic effects (CPE; IC₁₀₀) of an authentic SARS-CoV-2 (US_WA-1/2020) variant at 1.25 µM. The most active inhibitors also potently inhibited variants of concern (VOCs), including the UK (B.1.1.7) and South African (B.1.351) variants and the Delta variant (B.1.617.2) originally identified in India in pseudovirus-based assay. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis with one potent inhibitor confirmed that it binds to the prefusion SARS-CoV-2 spike protein trimer. These small-molecule inhibitors prevented virus-mediated cell–cell fusion. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) data for one of the most active inhibitors, NBCoV1, demonstrated drug-like properties. An in vivo pharmacokinetics (PK) study of NBCoV1 in rats demonstrated an excellent half-life (t_1/2) of 11.3 h, a mean resident time (MRT) of 14.2 h, and oral bioavailability. We expect these lead inhibitors to facilitate the further development of preclinical and clinical candidates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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17 pages, 4140 KiB

Open AccessArticle

sTREM-1 Predicts Disease Severity and Mortality in COVID-19 Patients: Involvement of Peripheral Blood Leukocytes and MMP-8 Activity

by Pedro V. da Silva-Neto, Jonatan C. S. de Carvalho, Vinícius E. Pimentel, Malena M. Pérez, Diana M. Toro, Thais F. C. Fraga-Silva, Carlos A. Fuzo, Camilla N. S. Oliveira, Lilian C. Rodrigues, Jamille G. M. Argolo, Ingryd Carmona-Garcia, Nicola T. Neto, Camila O. S. Souza, Talita M. Fernandes, Victor A. F. Bastos, Augusto M. Degiovani, Leticia F. Constant, Fátima M. Ostini, Marley R. Feitosa, Rogerio S. Parra, Fernando C. Vilar, Gilberto G. Gaspar, José J. R. da Rocha, Omar Feres, Fabiani G. Frantz, Raquel F. Gerlach, Sandra R. Maruyama, Elisa M. S. Russo, Angelina L. Viana, Ana P. M. Fernandes, Isabel K. F. M. Santos, Vânia L. D. Bonato, Antonio L. Boechat, Adriana Malheiro, Ruxana T. Sadikot, Marcelo Dias-Baruffi, Cristina R. B. Cardoso, Lúcia H. Faccioli, Carlos A. Sorgi and on behalf of the IMUNOCOVID Study Group Show full author list Hide full author list

Viruses 2021, 13(12), 2521; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13122521 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4753

Abstract

Uncontrolled inflammatory responses play a critical role in coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In this context, because the triggering-receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1) is considered an intrinsic amplifier of inflammatory signals, this study investigated the role of soluble TREM-1 (sTREM-1) as a biomarker of [...] Read more.

Uncontrolled inflammatory responses play a critical role in coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In this context, because the triggering-receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1) is considered an intrinsic amplifier of inflammatory signals, this study investigated the role of soluble TREM-1 (sTREM-1) as a biomarker of the severity and mortality of COVID-19. Based on their clinical scores, we enrolled COVID-19 positive patients (n = 237) classified into mild, moderate, severe, and critical groups. Clinical data and patient characteristics were obtained from medical records, and their plasma inflammatory mediator profiles were evaluated with immunoassays. Plasma levels of sTREM-1 were significantly higher among patients with severe disease compared to all other groups. Additionally, levels of sTREM-1 showed a significant positive correlation with other inflammatory parameters, such as IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, and neutrophil counts, and a significant negative correlation was observed with lymphocyte counts. Most interestingly, sTREM-1 was found to be a strong predictive biomarker of the severity of COVID-19 and was related to the worst outcome and death. Systemic levels of sTREM-1 were significantly correlated with the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-8, which can release TREM-1 from the surface of peripheral blood cells. Our findings indicated that quantification of sTREM-1 could be used as a predictive tool for disease outcome, thus improving the timing of clinical and pharmacological interventions in patients with COVID-19. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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11 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Limited Impact of Delta Variant’s Mutations on the Effectiveness of Neutralization Conferred by Natural Infection or COVID-19 Vaccines in a Latino Population

by Carlos A. Sariol, Crisanta Serrano-Collazo, Edwin J. Ortiz, Petraleigh Pantoja, Lorna Cruz, Teresa Arana, Dianne Atehortua, Christina Pabon-Carrero and Ana M. Espino

Viruses 2021, 13(12), 2405; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13122405 - 30 Nov 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2277

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has impacted public health systems all over the world. The Delta variant seems to possess enhanced transmissibility, but no clear evidence suggests it has increased virulence. Our data show that pre-exposed individuals had similar neutralizing activity against the authentic COVID-19 [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has impacted public health systems all over the world. The Delta variant seems to possess enhanced transmissibility, but no clear evidence suggests it has increased virulence. Our data show that pre-exposed individuals had similar neutralizing activity against the authentic COVID-19 strain and the Delta and Epsilon variants. After only one vaccine dose, the neutralization capacity expanded to all tested variants in pre-exposed individuals. Healthy vaccinated individuals showed a limited breadth of neutralization. One vaccine dose did induce similar neutralizing antibodies against the Delta as against the authentic strain. However, even after two doses, this capacity only expanded to the Epsilon variant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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8 pages, 760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Indications of Persistent Glycocalyx Damage in Convalescent COVID-19 Patients: A Prospective Multicenter Study and Hypothesis

by Richard Vollenberg, Phil-Robin Tepasse, Kevin Ochs, Martin Floer, Markus Strauss, Florian Rennebaum, Iyad Kabar, Alexandros Rovas and Tobias Nowacki

Viruses 2021, 13(11), 2324; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13112324 - 21 Nov 2021

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4508

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the SARS CoV-2 virus and can lead to severe lung damage and hyperinflammation. In the context of COVID-19 infection, inflammation-induced degradation of the glycocalyx layer in endothelial cells has been demonstrated. Syndecan-1 (SDC-1) is an established parameter [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the SARS CoV-2 virus and can lead to severe lung damage and hyperinflammation. In the context of COVID-19 infection, inflammation-induced degradation of the glycocalyx layer in endothelial cells has been demonstrated. Syndecan-1 (SDC-1) is an established parameter for measuring glycocalyx injury. This prospective, multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study analyzed SDC-1 levels in 24 convalescent patients that had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 with mild disease course without need of hospitalization. We included 13 age-matched healthy individuals and 10 age-matched hospitalized COVID-19 patients with acute mild disease course as controls. In convalescent COVID-19 patients, significantly elevated SDC-1 levels were detected after a median of 88 days after symptom onset compared to healthy controls, whereas no difference was found when compared to SDC-1 levels of hospitalized patients undergoing acute disease. This study is the first to demonstrate signs of endothelial damage in non-pre-diseased, convalescent COVID-19 patients after mild disease progression without hospitalization. The data are consistent with studies showing evidence of persistent endothelial damage after severe or critical disease progression. Further work to investigate endothelial damage in convalescent COVID-19 patients should follow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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9 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pericarditis after SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Another Pebble in the Mosaic of Long COVID?

by Francesco Carubbi, Alessia Alunno, Silvia Leone, Nicoletta Di Gregorio, Bernardina Mancini, Angelo Viscido, Rita Del Pinto, Sabrina Cicogna, Davide Grassi and Claudio Ferri

Viruses 2021, 13(10), 1997; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13101997 - 4 Oct 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6266

Abstract

With the emerging success of the COVID-19 vaccination programs, the incidence of acute COVID-19 will decrease. However, given the high number of people who contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection and recovered, we will be faced with a significant number of patients with persistent symptoms even [...] Read more.

With the emerging success of the COVID-19 vaccination programs, the incidence of acute COVID-19 will decrease. However, given the high number of people who contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection and recovered, we will be faced with a significant number of patients with persistent symptoms even months after their COVID-19 infection. In this setting, long COVID and its cardiovascular manifestations, including pericarditis, need to become a top priority for healthcare systems as a new chronic disease process. Concerning the relationship between COVID-19 and pericardial diseases, pericarditis appears to be common in the acute infection but rare in the postacute period, while small pericardial effusions may be relatively common in the postacute period of COVID-19. Here, we reported a series of 7 patients developing pericarditis after a median of 20 days from clinical and virological recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection. We excluded specific identifiable causes of pericarditis, hence we speculate that these cases can be contextualized within the clinical spectrum of long COVID. All our patients were treated with a combination of colchicine and either ASA or NSAIDs, but four of them did not achieve a clinical response. When switched to glucocorticoids, these four patients recovered with no recurrence during drug tapering. Based on this observation and on the latency of pericarditis occurrence (a median of 20 days after a negative nasopharyngeal swab), could be suggested that post-COVID pericarditis may be linked to ongoing inflammation sustained by the persistence of viral nucleic acid without virus replication in the pericardium. Therefore, glucocorticoids may be a suitable treatment option in patients not responding or intolerant to conventional therapy and who require to counteract the pericardial inflammatory component rather than direct an acute viral injury to the pericardial tissue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

19 pages, 9763 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Function Is More Reliable than Quantity to Follow Up the Humoral Response to the Receptor-Binding Domain of SARS-CoV-2-Spike Protein after Natural Infection or COVID-19 Vaccination

by Carlos A. Sariol, Petraleigh Pantoja, Crisanta Serrano-Collazo, Tiffany Rosa-Arocho, Albersy Armina-Rodríguez, Lorna Cruz, E. Taylor Stone, Teresa Arana, Consuelo Climent, Gerardo Latoni, Dianne Atehortua, Christina Pabon-Carrero, Amelia K. Pinto, James D. Brien and Ana M. Espino

Viruses 2021, 13(10), 1972; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13101972 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8700

Abstract

Both the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and emergence of variants of concern have highlighted the need for functional antibody assays to monitor the humoral response over time. Antibodies directed against the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 are an important component of the neutralizing antibody response. [...] Read more.

Both the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and emergence of variants of concern have highlighted the need for functional antibody assays to monitor the humoral response over time. Antibodies directed against the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 are an important component of the neutralizing antibody response. In this work, we report that in a subset of patients—despite a decline in total S-specific antibodies—neutralizing antibody titers remain at a similar level for an average of 98 days in longitudinal sampling of a cohort of 59 Hispanic/Latino patients exposed to SARS-CoV-2. Our data suggest that 100% of seroconverting patients make detectable neutralizing antibody responses which can be quantified by a surrogate viral neutralization test. Examination of sera from ten out of the 59 subjects which received mRNA-based vaccination revealed that both IgG titers and neutralizing activity of sera were higher after vaccination compared to a cohort of 21 SARS-CoV-2 naïve subjects. One dose was sufficient for the induction of a neutralizing antibody, but two doses were necessary to reach 100% surrogate virus neutralization in subjects irrespective of previous SARS-CoV-2 natural infection status. Like the pattern observed after natural infection, the total anti-S antibodies titers declined after the second vaccine dose; however, neutralizing activity remained relatively constant for more than 80 days after the first vaccine dose. Furthermore, our data indicates that—compared with mRNA vaccination—natural infection induces a more robust humoral immune response in unexposed subjects. This work is an important contribution to understanding the natural immune response to the novel coronavirus in a population severely impacted by SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, by comparing the dynamics of the immune response after the natural infection vs. the vaccination, these findings suggest that functional neutralizing antibody tests are more relevant indicators than the presence or absence of binding antibodies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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12 pages, 739 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rasch Model of the COVID-19 Symptom Checklist—A Psychometric Validation Study

by Tanja A. Stamm, Valentin Ritschl, Maisa Omara, Margaret R. Andrews, Nils Mevenkamp, Angelika Rzepka, Michael Schirmer, Siegfried Walch, Thomas Salzberger and Erika Mosor

Viruses 2021, 13(9), 1762; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13091762 - 3 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2857

Abstract

While self-reported Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptom checklists have been extensively used during the pandemic, they have not been sufficiently validated from a psychometric perspective. We, therefore, used advanced psychometric modelling to explore the construct validity and internal consistency of an online self-reported [...] Read more.

While self-reported Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptom checklists have been extensively used during the pandemic, they have not been sufficiently validated from a psychometric perspective. We, therefore, used advanced psychometric modelling to explore the construct validity and internal consistency of an online self-reported COVID-19 symptom checklist and suggested adaptations where necessary. Fit to the Rasch model was examined in a sample of 1638 Austrian citizens who completed the checklist on up to 20 days during a lockdown. The items’ fatigue’, ‘headache’ and ‘sneezing’ had the highest likelihood to be affirmed. The longitudinal application of the symptom checklist increased the fit to the Rasch model. The item ‘cough’ showed a significant misfit to the fundamental measurement model and an additional dependency to ‘dry cough/no sputum production’. Several personal factors, such as gender, age group, educational status, COVID-19 test status, comorbidities, immunosuppressive medication, pregnancy and pollen allergy led to systematic differences in the patterns of how symptoms were affirmed. Raw scores’ adjustments ranged from ±0.01 to ±0.25 on the metric scales (0 to 10). Except for some basic adaptations that increases the scale’s construct validity and internal consistency, the present analysis supports the combination of items. More accurate item wordings co-created with laypersons would lead to a common understanding of what is meant by a specific symptom. Adjustments for personal factors and comorbidities would allow for better clinical interpretations of self-reported symptom data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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16 pages, 4115 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Behavior of Eosinophil Counts in Recovered and Deceased COVID-19 Patients over the Course of the Disease

by Ricarda Cortés-Vieyra, Sergio Gutiérrez-Castellanos, Cleto Álvarez-Aguilar, Víctor Manuel Baizabal-Aguirre, Rosa Elvira Nuñez-Anita, Angélica Georgina Rocha-López and Anel Gómez-García

Viruses 2021, 13(9), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13091675 - 24 Aug 2021

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4009

Abstract

Knowledge about the immune responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, particularly regarding the function of eosinophils, has been steadily emerging recently. There exists controversy regarding the implications of eosinophils in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)’s pathology. We report a [...] Read more.

Knowledge about the immune responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, particularly regarding the function of eosinophils, has been steadily emerging recently. There exists controversy regarding the implications of eosinophils in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)’s pathology. We report a retrospective cohort study including the comparison of leukocyte counts in COVID-19 patients, considering the outcomes of recovery (n = 59) and death (n = 60). Among the different types of leukocytes, the eosinophil counts were those that showed the greatest difference between recovered and deceased patients. Eosinopenia (eosinophil count < 0.01 × 10⁹/L) was more frequently observed in deceased than recovered patients (p = 0.0012). The eosinophil counts more rapidly increased and showed a greater proportion over the course of the disease in the recovered than deceased patients. Furthermore, the estimated survival rate was greater in patients without eosinopenia than in patients with eosinopenia (p = 0.0070) during hospitalization. Importantly, recovered but not deceased patients showed high negative correlations of the eosinophils with the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and neutrophil counts at Day 9 of the onset of clinical symptoms (p ≤ 0.0220). Our analysis suggests that eosinopenia may be associated with unfavorable disease outcomes and that the eosinophils have a beneficial function in COVID-19 patients, probably contributing by controlling the exacerbated inflammation induced by neutrophils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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19 pages, 3202 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variant Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Genomes from Belgian Military Personnel Engaged in Overseas Missions and Operations

by Jean-Paul Pirnay, Philippe Selhorst, Samuel L. Hong, Christel Cochez, Barney Potter, Piet Maes, Mauro Petrillo, Gytis Dudas, Vincent Claes, Yolien Van der Beken, Gilbert Verbeken, Julie Degueldre, Simon Dellicour, Lize Cuypers, France T’Sas, Guy Van den Eede, Bruno Verhasselt, Wouter Weuts, Cedric Smets, Jan Mertens, Philippe Geeraerts, Kevin K. Ariën, Emmanuel André, Pierre Neirinckx, Patrick Soentjens and Guy Baele Show full author list Hide full author list

Viruses 2021, 13(7), 1359; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13071359 - 13 Jul 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4868

Abstract

More than a year after the first identification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as the causative agent of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in China, the emergence and spread of genomic variants of this virus through travel raise concerns regarding [...] Read more.

More than a year after the first identification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as the causative agent of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in China, the emergence and spread of genomic variants of this virus through travel raise concerns regarding the introduction of lineages in previously unaffected regions, requiring adequate containment strategies. Concomitantly, such introductions fuel worries about a possible increase in transmissibility and disease severity, as well as a possible decrease in vaccine efficacy. Military personnel are frequently deployed on missions around the world. As part of a COVID-19 risk mitigation strategy, Belgian Armed Forces that engaged in missions and operations abroad were screened (7683 RT-qPCR tests), pre- and post-mission, for the presence of SARS-CoV-2, including the identification of viral lineages. Nine distinct viral genotypes were identified in soldiers returning from operations in Niger, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, and Mali. The SARS-CoV-2 variants belonged to major clades 19B, 20A, and 20B (Nextstrain nomenclature), and included “variant of interest” B.1.525, “variant under monitoring” A.27, as well as lineages B.1.214, B.1, B.1.1.254, and A (pangolin nomenclature), some of which are internationally monitored due to the specific mutations they harbor. Through contact tracing and phylogenetic analysis, we show that isolation and testing policies implemented by the Belgian military command appear to have been successful in containing the influx and transmission of these distinct SARS-CoV-2 variants into military and civilian populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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13 pages, 407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients with Sarcoidosis

by P. Brito-Zerón, B. Gracia-Tello, A. Robles, A. Alguacil, M. Bonet, B. De-Escalante, A. Noblejas-Mosso, R. Gómez-de-la-Torre, M. Akasbi, M. Pérez-de-Lis, R. Pérez-Alvarez, M. Ramos-Casals and on behalf of the SarcoGEAS-SEMI Registry

Viruses 2021, 13(6), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13061000 - 27 May 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2934

Abstract

To analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in patients with sarcoidosis from a large multicenter cohort from Southern Europe and to identify the risk factors associated with a more complicated infection. We searched for [...] Read more.

To analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in patients with sarcoidosis from a large multicenter cohort from Southern Europe and to identify the risk factors associated with a more complicated infection. We searched for patients with sarcoidosis presenting with SARS-CoV-2 infection (defined according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control guidelines) among those included in the SarcoGEAS Registry, a nationwide, multicenter registry of patients fulfilling the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society/World Association of Sarcoidosis and Other Granulomatous Disorders 1999 classification criteria for sarcoidosis. A 2:1 age-sex-matched subset of patients with sarcoidosis without SARS-CoV-2 infection was selected as control population. Forty-five patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified (28 women, mean age 55 years). Thirty-six patients presented a symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection and 14 were hospitalized (12 required supplemental oxygen, 2 intensive care unit admission and 1 mechanical ventilation). Four patients died due to progressive respiratory failure. Patients who required hospital admission had an older mean age (64.9 vs. 51.0 years, p = 0.006), a higher frequency of baseline comorbidities including cardiovascular disease (64% vs. 23%, p = 0.016), diabetes mellitus (43% vs. 13%, p = 0.049) and chronic liver/kidney diseases (36% vs. 0%, p = 0.002) and presented more frequently fever (79% vs. 35%, p = 0.011) and dyspnea (50% vs. 3%, p = 0.001) in comparison with patients managed at home. Age- and sex-adjusted multivariate analysis identified the age at diagnosis of SARS-Cov-2 infection as the only independent variable associated with hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio 1.18, 95% conficence interval 1.04–1.35). A baseline moderate/severe pulmonary impairment in function tests was associated with a higher rate of hospitalization but the difference was not statistically significant (50% vs. 23%, p = 0.219). A close monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infection in elderly patients with sarcoidosis, especially in those with baseline cardiopulmonary diseases and chronic liver or renal failure, is recommended. The low frequency of severe pulmonary involvement in patients with sarcoidosis from Southern Europe may explain the weak prognostic role of baseline lung impairment in our study, in contrast to studies from other geographical areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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5 pages, 660 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Activity of Surgical Masks Infused with Quaternary Ammonium Salts

by Gary S. Selwyn, Chunyan Ye and Steven B. Bradfute

Viruses 2021, 13(6), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13060960 - 22 May 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3113

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has highlighted the need for protective and effective personal protective equipment (PPE). Research has shown that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on personal protective equipment, such as commonly used surgical masks. Methods are needed to inactivate virus on contaminated material. We show [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has highlighted the need for protective and effective personal protective equipment (PPE). Research has shown that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on personal protective equipment, such as commonly used surgical masks. Methods are needed to inactivate virus on contaminated material. We show here that embedding viral-disinfecting compounds during the manufacturing of surgical masks inactivates a high dose (up to 1 × 10⁵ pfu) of live, authentic SARS-CoV-2 within minutes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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16 pages, 1569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Restrictions versus Testing Campaigns in the COVID-19 Crisis: A Predictive Model Based on the Spanish Case

by Francisco Javier Candel, Elisabet Viayna, Daniel Callejo, Raul Ramos, Jesús San-Roman-Montero, Pablo Barreiro, María del Mar Carretero, Adam Kolipiński, Jesus Canora, Antonio Zapatero and Michael Chris Runken

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050917 - 15 May 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3661

Abstract

The global COVID-19 spread has forced countries to implement non-pharmacological interventions (NPI) (i.e., mobility restrictions and testing campaigns) to preserve health systems. Spain is one of the most severely impacted countries, both clinically and economically. In an effort to support policy decision-making, we [...] Read more.

The global COVID-19 spread has forced countries to implement non-pharmacological interventions (NPI) (i.e., mobility restrictions and testing campaigns) to preserve health systems. Spain is one of the most severely impacted countries, both clinically and economically. In an effort to support policy decision-making, we aimed to assess the impacts of different NPI on COVID-19 epidemiology, healthcare costs and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A modified Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed epidemiological model was created to simulate the pandemic evolution. Its output was used to populate an economic model to quantify healthcare costs and GDP variation through a regression model which correlates NPI and GDP change from 42 countries. Thirteen scenarios combining different NPI were consecutively simulated in the epidemiological and economic models. Both increased testing and stringency could reduce cases, hospitalizations and deaths. While policies based on increased testing rates lead to higher healthcare costs, increased stringency is correlated with greater GDP declines, with differences of up to 4.4% points. Increased test sensitivity may lead to a reduction of cases, hospitalizations and deaths and to the implementation of pooling techniques that can increase throughput testing capacity. Alternative strategies to control COVID-19 spread entail differing economic outcomes. Decision-makers may utilize this tool to identify the most suitable strategy considering epidemiological and economic outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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6 pages, 561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Virological Correlates of IgM–IgG Patterns of Response to SARS-CoV-2 Infection According to Targeted Antigens

by Pablo Barreiro, Francisco Javier Candel, Juan Carlos Sanz, Jesús San Román, María del Mar Carretero, Marta Pérez-Abeledo, Belén Ramos, José Manuel Viñuela-Prieto, Jesús Canora, Francisco Javier Martínez-Peromingo and Antonio Zapatero

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050874 - 10 May 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2248

Abstract

The virological meaning of the different patterns of serology in COVID-19 has been little examined in clinical settings. Asymptomatic subjects with IgM-spike (S) and IgG-nucleocapsid (N) determinations by chemiluminescence were studied for SARS-CoV-2 shedding in respiratory secretions by transcription-mediated amplification (TMA). In subjects [...] Read more.

The virological meaning of the different patterns of serology in COVID-19 has been little examined in clinical settings. Asymptomatic subjects with IgM-spike (S) and IgG-nucleocapsid (N) determinations by chemiluminescence were studied for SARS-CoV-2 shedding in respiratory secretions by transcription-mediated amplification (TMA). In subjects showing IgM-S positive and IgG-N negative, IgG-S was determined by lateral flow assay. A total of 712 individuals were tested: 30.0% presented IgM-S(+)/IgG-N(−), 25.8% had IgM-S(+)/IgG-N(+) and 44.2% had IgM-S(−)/IgG-N(+); the proportion with TMA(+) were comparable in these three groups: 12.1, 8.7 and 10.5%, respectively. In individuals with IgM-S(+)/IgG-N(−), IgG-S(+) was detected in 66.5%. The frequency of IgM-S(+)/IgG-S(−) in the total population was 10.0%, of whom 24.1% had TMA(+); the chances for TMA(+) in subjects with an IgM-S(+) alone pattern were 2.4%. Targeting of the same SARS-CoV-2 antigen seems to be better for the characterization of IgM/IgG patterns of response. IgM-S(+) alone reactivity is rare, and a small proportion is associated with viral shedding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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17 pages, 27266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical and Radiological Profiles of COVID-19 Patients with Neurological Symptomatology: A Comparative Study

by Maria de Fatima Viana Vasco Aragao, Mariana de Carvalho Leal, Pedro Henrique Pereira Andrade, Ocelio Queiroga Cartaxo Filho, Lucas Vasco Aragao, Tatiana Moreira Fonseca, Marcelo Andrade Valenca, Maria Regina Vendas Carneiro Leao, Joao Pedro Vasco Aragao, Maria Lúcia Soares, Mirelle Palmeira Lima, Silvio S. Caldas and Marcelo Moraes Valenca

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050845 - 6 May 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3566

Abstract

Patients with COVID-19 can require radiological examination, with chest CT being more frequent than neuro-imaging. The objective is to identify epidemiological, clinical and radiological factors considered as predictors of neurological involvement in patients with COVID-19 assessed by neuroimaging and to describe the neuroimaging [...] Read more.

Patients with COVID-19 can require radiological examination, with chest CT being more frequent than neuro-imaging. The objective is to identify epidemiological, clinical and radiological factors considered as predictors of neurological involvement in patients with COVID-19 assessed by neuroimaging and to describe the neuroimaging findings. This retrospective study was performed with 232 consecutive confirmed COVID-19 patients, from two radiological units, which were divided into two groups: (1) those who underwent a brain CT/MRI scan (n = 35) versus (2) those who did not undergo the brain CT/MRI scan, but underwent only chest CT (n = 197). There was a statistically significant difference with associations regarding the COVID-19 brain scan group for: admission to ICU, greater severity of lung injuries, the use of a mechanical ventilator and sepsis. Statistical tendency was found for chronic renal failure and systemic arterial hypertension. Forty-percent of COVID-19 patients from the brain scan group were abnormal on brain CT and/or brain MRI (22.9% of the cases with bleeding or microbleeding, 8.6% with restricted diffusion lesions). One ischemic stroke case was associated with irregularity at the M1 segment of the right middle cerebral artery. There was a case of left facial nerve palsy with enhancement of the left geniculate ganglia. An analysis of the olfactory bulbs was possible in 12 brain MRIs and 100% had enhancement and/or microbleeding. In conclusion, a more severe COVID-19 disease from ICU, a more severe form of lung disease, the use of mechanical ventilator and sepsis were associated to the COVID-19 patients with neurological involvement who had undergone brain scans. Microvascular phenomenon was a frequent finding in the brain and olfactory bulbs evaluated by neuroimaging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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14 pages, 694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of COVID-19 in West Virginia

by Sijin Wen, Apoorv Prasad, Kerri Freeland, Sanjiti Podury, Jenil Patel, Roshan Subedi, Erum Khan, Medha Tandon, Saurabh Kataria, Wesley Kimble and Shitiz Sriwastava

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 835; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050835 - 5 May 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3287

Abstract

This study examines the clinical characteristics, outcomes and types of management in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, in the hospitals affiliated with West Virginia University. We included patients from West Virginia with SARS-CoV-2 infection between 15 April to 30 December 2020. Descriptive analysis was performed [...] Read more.

This study examines the clinical characteristics, outcomes and types of management in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, in the hospitals affiliated with West Virginia University. We included patients from West Virginia with SARS-CoV-2 infection between 15 April to 30 December 2020. Descriptive analysis was performed to summarize the characteristics of patients. Regression analyses were performed to assess the association between baseline characteristics and outcomes. Of 1742 patients, the mean age was 47.5 years (±22.7) and 54% of patients were female. Only 459 patients (26.3%) reported at least one baseline symptom, of which shortness of breath was most common. More than half had at least one comorbidity, with hypertension being the most common. There were 131 severe cases (7.5%), and 84 patients (4.8%) died despite treatment. The mean overall length of hospital stay was 2.6 days (±6.9). Age, male sex, and comorbidities were independent predictors of outcomes. In this study of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection from West Virginia, older patients with underlying co-morbidities had poor outcomes, and the in-hospital mortality was similar to the national average. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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8 pages, 680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pitfall of Universal Pre-Admission Screening for SARS-CoV-2 in a Low Prevalence Country

by Jiwon Jung, Jinyeong Kim, Joon Seo Lim, Eun Ok Kim, Mi-Na Kim and Sung-Han Kim

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050804 - 30 Apr 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2397

Abstract

It is unclear whether universal PCR screening for SARS-CoV-2 in asymptomatic individuals prior to admission is useful. From April to December 2020, the positive rate of universal pre-admission screening was 0.005% (4/76,521) in a tertiary care hospital in Korea. The positive rates were [...] Read more.

It is unclear whether universal PCR screening for SARS-CoV-2 in asymptomatic individuals prior to admission is useful. From April to December 2020, the positive rate of universal pre-admission screening was 0.005% (4/76,521) in a tertiary care hospital in Korea. The positive rates were not different between the periods (period 1 (daily new patients of <1 per million inhabitants) vs. period 2 (1–8.3 per million inhabitants) vs. period 3 (10.3 to 20 per million inhabitants); P = 0.45). Universal pre-admission screening for SARS-CoV-2 had a lower positive rate than that of symptom-based screening (0.005% vs. 0.049% (53/109,257), p < 0.001). In addition, seven patients with negative pre-admission test results had subsequent positive PCR during hospitalization, and four patients had secondary transmission. Universal pre-admission PCR screening may not be practical in settings of low prevalence of COVID-19, and negative PCR results at admission should not serve as a basis for underestimating the risk of nosocomial spread from asymptomatic patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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11 pages, 1352 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Are Posterior Oropharyngeal Saliva Specimens an Acceptable Alternative to Nasopharyngeal Sampling for the Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 in Primary-Care Settings?

by Shirley Masse, Camille Bonnet, Ana-Maria Vilcu, Hayat Benamar, Morgane Swital, Sylvie van der Werf, Fabrice Carrat, Thomas Hanslik, Thierry Blanchon and Alessandra Falchi

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050761 - 26 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3230

Abstract

Background: The present study was set up to evaluate the efficacy of virological surveillance using posterior oropharyngeal saliva samples to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic in general practice. Methods: Posterior oropharyngeal saliva samples were collected without restriction on timing or alimentation by general practitioners [...] Read more.

Background: The present study was set up to evaluate the efficacy of virological surveillance using posterior oropharyngeal saliva samples to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic in general practice. Methods: Posterior oropharyngeal saliva samples were collected without restriction on timing or alimentation by general practitioners from patients with acute respiratory infection (ARI) seen in consultation. Saliva samples were tested by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for SARS-CoV-2 and 21 other respiratory pathogens. Results for SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples were compared to results obtained using a nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) collected in a certified medical laboratory before or after the ARI consultation. Results: Overall, 143 ARI patients were enrolled between 6 June 2020, and 19 January 2021. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 37.0% (n = 53) of saliva samples and in 39.0% (n = 56) of NPS. Both saliva and NPS were positive in 51 patients. Positive and negative results were concordant between saliva samples and NPS in 51 (96.2%) and in 85 (94.4%) patients, respectively, with a Cohen’s Kappa coefficient of 0.89 (95% CI 0.82–0.97, p < 0.001). Other respiratory viruses were detected in 28.0% (n = 40) of the 143 saliva samples. Conclusions: Findings suggest that saliva samples could represent an attractive alternative to NPS for surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in patients consulting for an ARI in primary care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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15 pages, 736 KiB

Open AccessArticle

D-Dimer Level and Neutrophils Count as Predictive and Prognostic Factors of Pulmonary Embolism in Severe Non-ICU COVID-19 Patients

by Benjamin Thoreau, Joris Galland, Maxime Delrue, Marie Neuwirth, Alain Stepanian, Anthony Chauvin, Azeddine Dellal, Olivier Nallet, Melanie Roriz, Mathilde Devaux, Jonathan London, Gonzague Martin-Lecamp, Antoine Froissart, Nouara Arab, Bertrand Ferron, Marie-Helene Groff, Viviane Queyrel, Christine Lorut, Lucile Regard, Emilie Berthoux, Guillaume Bayer, Chloe Comarmond, Bertrand Lioger, Arsène Mekinian, Tali-Anne Szwebel, Thomas Sené, Blanca Amador-Borrero, Olivier Mangin, Pierre O. Sellier, Virginie Siguret, Stéphane Mouly, Jean-Philippe Kevorkian, Lariboisière COVID Group, Dominique Vodovar and Damien Sene Show full author list Hide full author list

Viruses 2021, 13(5), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050758 - 26 Apr 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5572

Abstract

The incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) is high during severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to identify predictive and prognostic factors of PE in non-ICU hospitalized COVID-19 patients. In the retrospective multicenter observational CLOTVID cohort, we enrolled patients with confirmed RT-PCR COVID-19 [...] Read more.

The incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) is high during severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to identify predictive and prognostic factors of PE in non-ICU hospitalized COVID-19 patients. In the retrospective multicenter observational CLOTVID cohort, we enrolled patients with confirmed RT-PCR COVID-19 who were hospitalized in a medicine ward and also underwent a CT pulmonary angiography for a PE suspicion. Baseline data, laboratory biomarkers, treatments, and outcomes were collected. Predictive and prognostics factors of PE were identified by using logistic multivariate and by Cox regression models, respectively. A total of 174 patients were enrolled, among whom 86 (median [IQR] age of 66 years [55–77]) had post-admission PE suspicion, with 30/86 (34.9%) PE being confirmed. PE occurrence was independently associated with the lack of long-term anticoagulation or thromboprophylaxis (OR [95%CI], 72.3 [3.6–4384.8]) D-dimers ≥ 2000 ng/mL (26.3 [4.1–537.8]) and neutrophils ≥ 7.0 G/L (5.8 [1.4–29.5]). The presence of these two biomarkers was associated with a higher risk of PE (p = 0.0002) and death or ICU transfer (HR [95%CI], 12.9 [2.5–67.8], p < 0.01). In hospitalized non-ICU severe COVID-19 patients with clinical PE suspicion, the lack of anticoagulation, D-dimers ≥ 2000 ng/mL, neutrophils ≥ 7.0 G/L, and these two biomarkers combined might be useful predictive markers of PE and prognosis, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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11 pages, 1323 KiB

Open AccessArticle

SARS-CoV-2 Serum Neutralization Assay: A Traditional Tool for a Brand-New Virus

by Giulia Matusali, Francesca Colavita, Daniele Lapa, Silvia Meschi, Licia Bordi, Pierluca Piselli, Roberta Gagliardini, Angela Corpolongo, Emanuele Nicastri, Andrea Antinori, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Concetta Castilletti and INMI COVID-19 Laboratory Team

Viruses 2021, 13(4), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13040655 - 10 Apr 2021

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 6139

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 serum neutralization assay represents the gold standard for assessing antibody-mediated protection in naturally infected and vaccinated individuals. In the present study, 662 serum samples collected from February 2020 to January 2021 from acute and convalescent COVID-19 patients were tested to determine neutralizing [...] Read more.

SARS-CoV-2 serum neutralization assay represents the gold standard for assessing antibody-mediated protection in naturally infected and vaccinated individuals. In the present study, 662 serum samples collected from February 2020 to January 2021 from acute and convalescent COVID-19 patients were tested to determine neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers using a microneutralization test (MNT) for live SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG, IgA, and IgM directed against different viral antigens were measured by high-throughput automated platforms. We observed higher levels of NAbs in elderly (>60 years old) individuals and in patients presenting acute respiratory distress syndrome. SARS-CoV-2 NAbs develop as soon as five days from symptom onset and, despite a decline after the second month, persist for over 11 months, showing variable dynamics. Through correlation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, we set up a testing algorithm, suitable for the laboratory workload, by establishing an optimal cutoff value of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG for convalescent plasma donors to exclude from MNT samples foreseen to have low/negative NAb titers and ineligible for plasma donation. Overall, MNT, although cumbersome and not suitable for routine testing of large sample sizes, remains the reference tool for the assessment of antibody-mediated immunity after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Smart testing algorithms may optimize the laboratory workflow to monitor antibody-mediated protection in COVID-19 patients, plasma donors, and vaccinated individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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10 pages, 871 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inferring the Association between the Risk of COVID-19 Case Fatality and N501Y Substitution in SARS-CoV-2

by Shi Zhao, Jingzhi Lou, Marc K. C. Chong, Lirong Cao, Hong Zheng, Zigui Chen, Renee W. Y. Chan, Benny C. Y. Zee, Paul K. S. Chan and Maggie H. Wang

Viruses 2021, 13(4), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13040638 - 8 Apr 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3694

Abstract

As COVID-19 is posing a serious threat to global health, the emerging mutation in SARS-CoV-2 genomes, for example, N501Y substitution, is one of the major challenges against control of the pandemic. Characterizing the relationship between mutation activities and the risk of severe clinical [...] Read more.

As COVID-19 is posing a serious threat to global health, the emerging mutation in SARS-CoV-2 genomes, for example, N501Y substitution, is one of the major challenges against control of the pandemic. Characterizing the relationship between mutation activities and the risk of severe clinical outcomes is of public health importance for informing the healthcare decision-making process. Using a likelihood-based approach, we developed a statistical framework to reconstruct a time-varying and variant-specific case fatality ratio (CFR), and to estimate changes in CFR associated with a single mutation empirically. For illustration, the statistical framework is implemented to the COVID-19 surveillance data in the United Kingdom (UK). The reconstructed instantaneous CFR gradually increased from 1.0% in September to 2.2% in November 2020 and stabilized at this level thereafter, which monitors the mortality risk of COVID-19 on a real-time basis. We identified a link between the SARS-CoV-2 mutation activity at molecular scale and COVID-19 mortality risk at population scale, and found that the 501Y variants may slightly but not significantly increase 18% of fatality risk than the preceding 501N variants. We found no statistically significant evidence of change in COVID-19 mortality risk associated with 501Y variants, and highlighted the real-time estimating potentials of the modelling framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

20 pages, 746 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vertical Transmission of SARS-CoV-2: A Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews

by Salihu S. Musa, Umar M. Bello, Shi Zhao, Zainab U. Abdullahi, Muhammad A. Lawan and Daihai He

Viruses 2021, 13(9), 1877; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13091877 - 20 Sep 2021

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 5821

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has hugely impacted global public health and economy. The COVID-19 has also shown potential impacts on maternal perinatal and neonatal outcomes. This systematic review aimed to summarize the evidence from existing systematic reviews about the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infections on [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has hugely impacted global public health and economy. The COVID-19 has also shown potential impacts on maternal perinatal and neonatal outcomes. This systematic review aimed to summarize the evidence from existing systematic reviews about the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infections on maternal perinatal and neonatal outcomes. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, from 1 December 2019 to 7 July 2021, for published review studies that included case reports, primary studies, clinical practice guidelines, overviews, case-control studies, and observational studies. Systematic reviews that reported the plausibility of mother-to-child transmission of COVID-19 (also known as vertical transmission), maternal perinatal and neonatal outcomes, and review studies that addressed the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy were also included. We identified 947 citations, of which 69 studies were included for further analysis. Most (>70%) of the mother-to-child infection was likely due to environmental exposure, although a significant proportion (about 20%) was attributable to potential vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Further results of the review indicated that the mode of delivery of pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 could not increase or decrease the risk of infection for the newborns (outcomes), thereby emphasizing the significance of breastfeeding. The issue of maternal perinatal and neonatal outcomes with SARS-CoV-2 infection continues to worsen during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, increasing maternal and neonatal mortality, stillbirth, ruptured ectopic pregnancies, and maternal depression. Based on this study, we observed increasing rates of cesarean delivery from mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also found that SARS-CoV-2 could be potentially transmitted vertically during the gestation period. However, more data are needed to further investigate and follow-up, especially with reports of newborns infected with SARS-CoV-2, in order to examine a possible long-term adverse effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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14 pages, 761 KiB

Open AccessReview

Post-COVID-19 Arthritis and Sacroiliitis: Natural History with Longitudinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in Two Cases and Review of the Literature

by Donatella Colatutto, Arianna Sonaglia, Alen Zabotti, Lorenzo Cereser, Rossano Girometti and Luca Quartuccio

Viruses 2021, 13(8), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13081558 - 6 Aug 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5673

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) is a well-known pandemic infectious disease caused by an RNA virus belonging to the coronaviridae family. The most important involvement during the acute phase of infection concerns the respiratory tract and may be fatal. However, COVID-19 may [...] Read more.

Severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) is a well-known pandemic infectious disease caused by an RNA virus belonging to the coronaviridae family. The most important involvement during the acute phase of infection concerns the respiratory tract and may be fatal. However, COVID-19 may become a systemic disease with a wide spectrum of manifestations. Herein, we report the natural history of sacroiliac inflammatory involvement in two females who developed COVID-19 infection with mild flu-like symptoms. After the infection they reported inflammatory back pain, with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies showing typical aspects of sacroiliitis. Symptoms improved with NSAIDs therapy over the following months while MRI remained positive. A literature review was performed on this emerging topic. To our knowledge, this is the first MRI longitudinal study of post-COVID-19 sacroiliitis with almost one year of follow-up. Predisposing factors for the development of articular involvement are unclear but a long-lasting persistence of the virus, demonstrated by nasopharyngeal swab, may enhance the probability of altering the immune system in a favourable background. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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Other

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9 pages, 1158 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Clinical Evaluation of In-House-Produced 3D-Printed Nasopharyngeal Swabs for COVID-19 Testing

by Simon Grandjean Lapierre, Stéphane Bedwani, François DeBlois, Audray Fortin, Natalia Zamorano Cuervo, Karim Zerouali, Elise Caron, Philippe Morency-Potvin, Simon Gagnon, Nakome Nguissan, Pascale Arlotto, Isabelle Hardy, Catherine-Audrey Boutin, Cécile Tremblay, François Coutlée, Jacques de Guise and Nathalie Grandvaux

Viruses 2021, 13(9), 1752; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13091752 - 2 Sep 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2442

Abstract

3D-printed alternatives to standard flocked swabs were rapidly developed to provide a response to the unprecedented and sudden need for an exponentially growing amount of diagnostic tools to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of the anticipated shortage, a hospital-based 3D-printing platform was [...] Read more.

3D-printed alternatives to standard flocked swabs were rapidly developed to provide a response to the unprecedented and sudden need for an exponentially growing amount of diagnostic tools to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of the anticipated shortage, a hospital-based 3D-printing platform was implemented in our institution for the production of swabs for nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal sampling based on the freely available, open-source design provided to the community by University of South Florida’s Health Radiology and Northwell Health System teams as a replacement for locally used commercial swabs. Validation of our 3D-printed swabs was performed with a head-to-head diagnostic accuracy study of the 3D-printed “Northwell model” with the cobas PCR Media^® swab sample kit. We observed an excellent concordance (total agreement 96.8%, Kappa 0.936) in results obtained with the 3D-printed and flocked swabs, indicating that the in-house 3D-printed swab could be used reliably in the context of a shortage of flocked swabs. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report on autonomous hospital-based production and clinical validation of 3D-printed swabs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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6 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

The Impact of Risk-Adjusted Heparin Regimens on the Outcome of Patients with COVID-19 Infection. A Prospective Cohort Study

by Pierpaolo Di Micco, Antonella Tufano, Giuseppe Cardillo, Egidio Imbalzano, Maria Amitrano, Corrado Lodigiani, Annamaria Bellizzi, Giuseppe Camporese, Antonella Cavalli, Carmela De Stefano, Vincenzo Russo, Antonio Voza, Alessandro Perrella and Paolo Prandoni

Viruses 2021, 13(9), 1720; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13091720 - 30 Aug 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2880

Abstract

Background. According to recent guidelines, all hospitalized patients with COVID-19 should receive pharmacological prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism (VTE), unless there are specific contraindications. However, the optimal preventive strategy in terms of intensity of anticoagulation for these patients is not well established. Objectives. To [...] Read more.

Background. According to recent guidelines, all hospitalized patients with COVID-19 should receive pharmacological prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism (VTE), unless there are specific contraindications. However, the optimal preventive strategy in terms of intensity of anticoagulation for these patients is not well established. Objectives. To investigate the impact of individualized regimens of enoxaparin on the development of VTE and on the risk of major bleeding complications during hospitalization in patients with COVID-19 infection. Methods. All consecutive patients admitted to the medical wards of six Italian hospitals between 15 September and 15 October 2020 with COVID-19 infection of moderate severity were administered enoxaparin in subcutaneous daily doses adjusted to the Padua Prediction Score stratification model: No heparin in patients scoring less than 4, 4000 IU daily in those scoring 4, 6000 IU in those scoring 5, and 8000 in those scoring six or more. Objective tests were performed in patients developing clinical symptoms of deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism. Bleeding complications were defined according to the ISTH classification. Results. From the 154 eligible patients, enoxaparin was administered in all: 4000 IU in 73 patients, 6000 IU in 53, and 8000 IU in the remaining 28. During the course of hospitalization, 27 patients (17.5%) died. VTE developed in 14 of the 154 patients (9.1%; 95% CI, 4.6% to 13.6%), and was fatal in 1. Major bleeding complications developed in 35 patients (22.7%; 95% CI, 16.1% to 29.3%), and were fatal in 8. Conclusions. Despite the use of risk-adjusted doses of enoxaparin, the rate of VTE events was consistent with that reported in contemporary studies where fixed-dose low-molecular-weight heparin was used. The unexpectedly high risk of bleeding complications should induce caution in administering enoxaparin in doses higher than the conventional low ones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19—Advances in Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects)

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