Computational optimization of delivery parameters to guide the development of targeted Nasal spray.

Airborne transmission by droplets and aerosols is known to play a critical role in the spread of many viruses amongst which are the common flu and the more recent SARS-CoV-2 viruses. In the case of SARS-CoV-2, the nasal cavity not only constitutes an important viral entry point, but also a primary site of infection (Sungnak W. et al. Nat. Med. 26:681-687. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-0868-6 , 2020).. Although face masks are a well-established preventive measure, development of novel and easy-to-use prophylactic measures would be highly beneficial in fighting viral spread and the subsequent emergence of variants of concern (Tao K. et al. Nat Rev Genet 22:757-773. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41576-021-00408-x , 2021). Our group has been working on optimizing a nasal spray delivery system that deposits particles inside the susceptible regions of the nasal cavity to act as a mechanical barrier to impede viral entry. Here, we identify computationally the delivery parameters that maximize the protection offered by this barrier. We introduce the computational approach and quantify the protection rate obtained as a function of a broad range of delivery parameters. We also introduce a modified design and demonstrate that it significantly improves deposition, thus constituting a viable approach to protect against nasal infection of airborne viruses. We then discuss our findings and the implications of this novel system on the prevention of respiratory diseases and targeted drug delivery.

AP-S/URSI 2022 [President’s Message]

As I write this column, the 2022 IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation (AP-S) and the U.S. National Committee International Union of Radio Science (URSI) Meeting (AP-S/URSI 2022) in Denver, Colorado, is just one month away. This is a truly special event for all AP-S members as the conference marks the first IEEE AP-S/URSI Symposium since 2019 to be held primarily in person, with a “backup option” for virtual presentation for authors who cannot travel due to COVID-19-related restrictions or the inability to obtain a visa. Recently, pretravel testing requirements to go to the United States have been lifted, and we hope that this change will enable most of our members worldwide to join us in person in Denver for what promises to be a fantastic conference. Although final numbers will be available only after the conference, as of now, the AP-S/URSI 2022 counts 1,446 accepted papers, which is comparable to the previous in-person prepandemic conference. The conference will hold 15 parallel sessions each day;a total of 23 special sessions and 12 short courses and workshops will further enrich the program, which received international contributions with a geographical distribution similar in number to prepandemic times. The conference features a spectacular exhibit and an exceptional technical program. Prof. Branislav Notaros, AP-S/URSI 2022 general chair, and all the organizing committee members have been working tirelessly to make this a truly unique event. I am very grateful for their incredible work and dedication!

Greetings, IEEE AP-S Members Worldwide! [President’s Message]

I am deeply honored and humbled to serve as the 2022 president of the IEEE Antennas and Propagation Society (AP-S). The past year has been incredibly challenging for our Society and the world in general;COVID-19 has inflicted a tremendous amount of pain and suffering on so many, and we have lost friends and colleagues. I am hoping and praying that each and every one of you is well and stays healthy.