ABSTRACT
To minimize exposure to contagions such as seasonal influenza and COVID-19, we need noninvasive sampling and diagnostic methods, such as human saliva. Saliva is gaining attention as a suitable diagnostic medium because of its applicability in a field setting. Compared to blood, the collection, transport, and storage of saliva samples are easy, noninvasive, cost-effective and cause little discomfort for patients. Evidence shows that salivary biomarkers can be used to detect and monitor a plethora of oral and systemic conditions, including cancer. Human saliva contains many biomolecules, such as proteins, RNA, and DNA. In this chapter, we highlight the potential clinical utility of saliva as a liquid biopsy and explore recent discoveries in the applications of salivary biomarkers in cancer research. In addition, we reviewed the current state of salivary diagnostics and its associated technologies, and its potential as the preferred medium of cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and prognosis and future aspirations. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
ABSTRACT
Managing building water systems is complicated by the need to maintain hot water temperatures high enough to control the growth of Legionella spp. while minimizing the risk of scalding. This study assessed water quality management practices in large buildings in the United States. Surveys conducted with building water quality managers found that more than 85% of buildings have hot water temperatures that are consistent with scald risk mitigation guidelines (i.e., < 122..F/50..C). However, nearly two thirds and three quarters of buildings do not comply with the common temperature guidance for opportunistic pathogen control, i.e., water heater setpoint > 140..F (60..C) and recirculation loop > 122..F (50..C), respectively;median values for both setpoint and recirculation loop temperatures are 10..F (6..C) or more below temperatures recommended for opportunistic pathogen control. These observations suggest that many buildings are prone to Legionella spp. risk. The study also found that 27% of buildings do not comply with guidelines for time to equilibrium hot water temperature, over 33% fail to monitor temperature in the recirculation loop, more than 70% fail to replace or disinfect showerheads, more than 40% lack a written management plan, and only a minority conduct any monitoring of residual disinfectant levels or microbiological quality. Given the rise in Legionellosis infections in recent years, coupled with highlighted water quality concerns because of prolonged water stagnation in plumbing, such as in buildings closed due to COVID-19, current management practices, which appear to be focused on scald risk, may need to be broadened to include greater attention to control of opportunistic pathogens. To accomplish this, there is a need for formal training and resources for facility managers.
ABSTRACT
COVID-19 pandemic has a landslide shock on human civilization. Due to its sudden destructive impacts on industries, commerce, education and social interactions, researchers are underway to investigate the consequences of this crisis, particularly on the electrical power consumption and environment. In this paper, the impacts of COVID-19 on the power industry of Bangladesh and its positive impacts on the environment have been investigated through the estimation of the reduction of power generation and CO2 emission during the months of April to July in 2020 and 2019. It is found that there was a 16.96% reduction of peak power generation in the month of May 2020 compared with that of May 2019. On the contrary, the CO2 emission was reduced by 12.23% on average, with a maximum reduction of 22.29% in May 2020. Both the indicators have a correlation with the severity of the pandemic in the month of May 2020. © 2021 IEEE.