Simultaneous Detection of RIG-1, MDA5, and IFIT-1 Expression Is a Convenient Tool for Evaluation of the Interferon-Mediated Response.

In this study, we developed a novel, multiplex qPCR assay for simultaneous detection of RIG-1, MDA5, and IFIT-1 at the mRNA level. The assay was validated in A549 cells transfected with in vitro transcribed RNAs. Both exogenous RNA-GFP and self-amplifying (saRNA-GFP) induced significant expression of RIG-1, MDA5, IFIT-1, as well as type I and III interferons. In contrast, native RNA from intact A549 cells did not upregulate expression of these genes. Next, we evaluated RIG-1, MDA5, and IFIT-1 mRNA levels in the white blood cells of patients with influenza A virus (H3N2) or SARS-CoV-2. In acute phase (about 4 days after disease onset) both viruses induced these genes expression. Clinical observations of SARS-CoV-2 typically describe a two-step disease progression, starting with a mild-to-moderate presentation followed by a secondary respiratory worsening 9 to 12 days after the first onset of symptoms. It revealed that the expression of RIG-1, MDA5, and MxA was not increased after 2 and 3 weeks from the onset the disease, while for IFIT-1 it was observed the second peak at 21 day post infection. It is well known that RIG-1, MDA5, and IFIT-1 expression is induced by the action of interferons. Due to the ability of SOCS-1 to inhibit interferon-dependent signaling, and the distinct antagonism of SARS-CoV-2 in relation to interferon-stimulated genes expression, we assessed SOCS-1 mRNA levels in white blood cells. SARS-CoV-2 patients had increased SOCS-1 expression, while the influenza-infected group did not differ from heathy donors. Moreover, SOCS-1 mRNA expression remained stably elevated during the course of the disease. It can be assumed that augmented SOCS-1 expression is one of multiple mechanisms that allow SARS-CoV-2 to escape from the interferon-mediated immune response. Our results implicate SOCS-1 involvement in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2.

EVALUATION OF ORTHODONTIC AND DENTAL EMERGENCIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Objectives: The study aimed at evaluating orthodontics and dental emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods: An online-questionnaire survey was developed using google form and sent to orthodontists and dental surgeons in Nepal, practicing during the pandemic. Responses were collected and statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 16.0. Result: It was seen that the most frequently encountered orthodontic emergencies were due to, loose brackets (60%) and poking wires (47.6%) followed by loose bands (31.4%) and debonded loose buccal tubes (30.5%). Most frequently reported dental emergencies were broken or loose removable prosthesis and broken or loose crowns and/or bridges (13.3%) followed by bleeding while brushing (41.9%), swelling due to periodontal origin (33.1%), and severe pain due to tooth decay (44.8%). Conclusion: Loosening of brackets and poking wires were the most frequently reported orthodontic emergencies while, broken or loose prosthesis were reported commonly during the pandemic. © 2022 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

Are We Hearing Right? The Negative Impact of New SARSCoV-2 Preventive Measures and Prolonged Use of Treatment Modalities during Orthodontic Treatment

Since the dental treatment involves the use of various instruments and machines, there is ample presence of both distracting as well as destructive noise, and these are defined based on various parameters. With an increase in safety measures incorporated into dental practices, such as extra-oral suction devices and respirators, there has also been a corresponding rise in noise levels usually present in a clinic. Previous clinical experiments and trials have shown that the noise in a dental office can permanently bring about hearing damage. In addition to this, working with added safety measures during the pandemic, such as the use of personal protective equipment, respirators, and face shields can decrease operator efficiency and the ability to communicate normally. Dentistry has already been demonstrated to be one of the most hazardous occupations because of the high risk of infections. An Orthodontist must protect their eyes and mouth from potentially hazardous situations and the ears to prevent hearing damage.

A Multicultural Demographic Study to Evaluate the Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on the Job Satisfaction across the Dental Industry

Objective: To evaluate the difference in working conditions as perceived by dentists during the pandemic and their professional satisfaction levels. Material and Methods: An online survey was conducted using the convenience and snowball sampling methods. Two hundred seventy-two respondents across various countries answered information related to socio-demographic data and work satisfaction levels during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Results: 40.1% of dentists reported dissatisfied with their current work, while another 13.6% of dentists fell in the extremely dissatisfied category. 22.8% of dentists were significantly dissatisfied with their current income. Furthermore, 38.4% of the dentists were dissatisfied with physical working conditions, while 33.5% reported dissatisfaction with the freedom of working methods. Conclusion: This study was focused on the connection between various intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting working conditions, social interactions, and psychological stresses. From the findings of this multicultural study, we can see that dentists across different countries have been affected and have varying levels of dissatisfaction. Therefore, regulatory authorities must plan for support and interventional programs to help dental professionals pass this difficult period.

Analyzing the effectiveness and efficacy of different types of masks and respirators: A review

Introduction: According to the WHO guidelines the use of masks has been advocated as one of the most essential and effective barriers against the transmission of the Novel Coronavirus. Objectives: For oral healthcare professionals it is imperative to understand details regarding personal protective equipment. This is because they are in proximity to the patients while carrying out treatments and as such are at a high risk of transmission because of various aerosol-generating procedures. Different types of masks are available which have different efficiency levels in terms of filtration, fluid resistance and shielding from the virus. Description and Results: This article reviews the different types of masks and respirators available and how effective they are in providing protection and safety against virus transmission. Conclusion: Use of an appropriate mask or respirator, depending on the procedure being done, is the need of the hour along with proper personal protective measures.

In-House aligners helping answer the distress call during the pandemic!

Fixed orthodontic treatment being a long-term treatment has suffered during the pandemic. Clinics have undergone a prolonged and unforeseen lockdown, and patients are finding it extremely difficult to cope with their regular checkups and appointments. Advances in material sciences, simulation software, and 3D printing have enabled aligners to offer treatment solutions for complicated orthodontic problems. An orthodontist can use virtual simulations to plan out the entire treatment on a computerized three-dimensional model, and then order aligners using these simulations. Patient compliance is one of the principal issues with clear aligner therapy and at a time when branded aligners are facing issues with regard to shipping, the entire process has become very expensive. For these reasons, it would be a good idea to consider using in-house fabricated aligners. In-house aligners can be easily fabricated using thermoformed plastic which is adapted to complex three-dimensional tooth surfaces that have a bearing on the deflection of the aligner on placement. They hold advantages over traditional commercially available aligners in terms of cost effectiveness and time required for fabrication and delivery. © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications. All rights reserved.

Computer Vision Syndrome: Will the Pandemic Lead to Eye Problems for Dentists?

Over the past year and a half dental education has been conducted primarily online due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. During the pandemic, we have spent many hours a day on our computers, mobile phones, and tablets to gather information and participate in online seminars and classrooms. Health consequences resulting from the overuse of these devices include carpal tunnel syndrome as well as computer vision syndrome (CVS). Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, has several associated features such as eye burning, strained vision, dry eye, blurred vision, and associated neck and shoulder pain. Several predisposing factors have been linked with CVS, but often this problem gets ignored. The management of this syndrome is aimed at educating dentists on computer use, position, and the surrounding environment. Considering all this, we must ensure that we spend some time away from these devices every day to avoid any significant vision problems. The objective of preparing this manuscript was to provide a brief overview of the increased prevalence of computer vision syndrome and its associated features.