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1.
Clinical Neurophysiology ; 150:e85, 2023.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2322183

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Acute myopathy are seen in critically ill patients, in severe SARS-CoV2 pneumonia requiring mechanical ventilation, and other infection illness, toxin and drug-induced complications, or systemic inflammation. Periodic paralysis or carnitine disorders are known genetic causes of acute muscular weakness, besides genetically determined muscle diseases rarely have an acute clinical course. Content: Case presentation: 61-years old, healthy woman, after a one-time vaccination against Covid-19 about 2 weeks earlier, was admitted to the Neurological Department due to symptoms lasting for 2 days. On the first day of the disease she complained of vertigo and double vision, on the following day dysarthia and dysphagia appeared, she stopped walking. On the second day of hospitalization, the patient required mechanical ventilation. The initial diagnosis of Guillaine-Barre syndrome was not confirmed in the electrophysiological and laboratory (CSF) studies. Myopathic pattern with polyphasic potentials of short duration and low amplitude was observed in EMG, without spontaneous activity. In the electron microscope numerous fat drops between bundles of myofibrils in most muscle fibers were seen. She received intravenous immunoglobulins, and steroid therapy, together with high doses of vitamin B2 with very good motor improvement. Multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) was suspected, and the Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) was performed. Conclusion(s): The authors note the possibility of acute, life-threatening myopathy, which may be caused by a genetic defect. MADD is a very rare genetic entity which can manifest for the first time very suddenly, especially in the presence of triggers, including but not limited to after vaccinations. Keywords: Acute myopathy;Multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency;Vitamin B2.Copyright © 2023

2.
Current Traditional Medicine ; 9(3):28-43, 2023.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2267482

ABSTRACT

The mass casualties caused by the delta variant and the wave of the newer "Omicron" variant of SARS-COV-2 in India have brought about great concern among healthcare officials. The government and healthcare agencies are seeking effective strategies to counter the pandemic. The application of nanotechnology and repurposing of drugs are reported as promising approaches in the management of COVID-19 disease. It has also immensely boomed the search for productive, re-liable, cost-effective, and bio-assimilable alternative solutions. Since ancient times, the traditional-ly employed Ayurvedic bhasmas have been used for diverse infectious diseases, which are now employed as nanomedicine that could be applied for managing COVID-19-related health anomalies. Like currently engineered metal nanoparticles (NPs), the bhasma nanoparticles (BNPs) are also packed with unique physicochemical properties, including multi-elemental nanocrystalline compo-sition, size, shape, dissolution, surface charge, hydrophobicity, and multi-pathway regulatory as well as modulatory effects. Because of these conformational and configurational-based physico-chemical advantages, Bhasma NPs may have promising potential to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and reduce the incidence of pneumonia-like common lung infections in children as well as age-related inflammatory diseases via immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and adju-vant-related properties.Copyright © 2023 Bentham Science Publishers.

3.
Microbiology Research ; 12(3):663-682, 2021.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2253973

ABSTRACT

Livestock products supply about 13 percent of energy and 28 percent of protein in diets consumed worldwide. Diarrhea is a leading cause of sickness and death of beef and dairy calves in their first month of life and also affecting adult cattle, resulting in large economic losses and a negative impact on animal welfare. Despite the usual multifactorial origin, viruses are generally involved, being among the most important causes of diarrhea. There are several viruses that have been confirmed as etiological agents (i.e., rotavirus and coronavirus), and some viruses that are not yet confirmed as etiological agents. This review summarizes the viruses that have been detected in the enteric tract of cattle and tries to deepen and gather knowledge about them.Copyright © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.

4.
Biomedical Signal Processing and Control ; 83 (no pagination), 2023.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2282952

ABSTRACT

Pandemics such as COVID-19 have exposed global inequalities in essential health care. Here, we proposed a novel analytics of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) by combining paper microfluidics with deep learning and cloud computing. Real-time amplifications of synthesized SARS-CoV-2 RNA templates were performed in paper devices. Information pertained to on-chip reactions in time-series format were transmitted to cloud server on which deep learning (DL) models were preloaded for data analysis. DL models enable prediction of NAAT results using partly gathered real-time fluorescence data. Using information provided by the G-channel, accurate prediction can be made as early as 9 min, a 78% reduction from the conventional 40 min mark. Reaction dynamics hidden in amplification curves were effectively leveraged. Positive and negative samples can be unbiasedly and automatically distinguished. Practical utility of the approach was validated by cross-platform study using clinical datasets. Predicted clinical accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were 98.6%, 97.6% and 99.1%. Not only the approach reduced the need for the use of bulky apparatus, but also provided intelligent, distributable and robotic insights for NAAT analysis. It set a novel paradigm for analyzing NAATs, and can be combined with the most cutting-edge technologies in fields of biosensor, artificial intelligence and cloud computing to facilitate fundamental and clinical research.Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd

5.
Int J Pharm X ; 5: 100174, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-2258117

ABSTRACT

The most prevalent conditions among ocular surgery and COVID-19 patients are fungal eye infections, which may cause inflammation and dry eye, and may cause ocular morbidity. Amphotericin-B eye drops are commonly used in the treatment of ocular fungal infections. Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and is used for the treatment of dry eye, conjunctivitis, and ocular inflammation. However, poor aqueous stability and excessive nasolacrimal duct draining impede these agens' efficiency. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of Amphotericin-B, as an antifungal against Candida albicans, Fusarium, and Aspergillus flavus, and Lactoferrin, as an anti-inflammatory and anti-dry eye, when co-loaded in triblock polymers PLGA-PEG-PEI nanoparticles embedded in P188-P407 ophthalmic thermosensitive gel. The nanoparticles were prepared by a double emulsion solvent evaporation method. The optimized formula showed particle size (177.0 ± 0.3 nm), poly-dispersity index (0.011 ± 0.01), zeta-potential (31.9 ± 0.3 mV), and entrapment% (90.9 ± 0.5) with improved ex-vivo pharmacokinetic parameters and ex-vivo trans-corneal penetrability, compared with drug solution. Confocal laser scanning revealed valuable penetration of fluoro-labeled nanoparticles. Irritation tests (Draize Test), Atomic force microscopy, cell culture and animal tests including histopathological analysis revealed superiority of the nanoparticles in reducing signs of inflammation and eradication of fungal infection in rabbits, without causing any damage to rabbit eyeballs. The nanoparticles exhibited favorable pharmacodynamic features with sustained release profile, and is neither cytotoxic nor irritating in-vitro or in-vivo. The developed formulation might provide a new and safe nanotechnology for treating eye problems, like inflammation and fungal infections.

6.
Comput Struct Biotechnol J ; 20: 766-778, 2022.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-2261663

ABSTRACT

The clinical manifestation of the recent pandemic COVID-19, caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus, varies from mild to severe respiratory illness. Although environmental, demographic and co-morbidity factors have an impact on the severity of the disease, contribution of the mutations in each of the viral genes towards the degree of severity needs a deeper understanding for designing a better therapeutic approach against COVID-19. Open Reading Frame-3a (ORF3a) protein has been found to be mutated at several positions. In this work, we have studied the effect of one of the most frequently occurring mutants, D155Y of ORF3a protein, found in Indian COVID-19 patients. Using computational simulations we demonstrated that the substitution at 155th changed the amino acids involved in salt bridge formation, hydrogen-bond occupancy, interactome clusters, and the stability of the protein compared with the other substitutions found in Indian patients. Protein-protein docking using HADDOCK analysis revealed that substitution D155Y weakened the binding affinity of ORF3a with caveolin-1 compared with the other substitutions, suggesting its importance in the overall stability of ORF3a-caveolin-1 complex, which may modulate the virulence property of SARS-CoV-2.

7.
Aerosol Science and Technology ; 56(12):1075-1095, 2022.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2240434

ABSTRACT

ABSRACT: After the rapid spread of SARS-Cov-2 virus, the use of masks was suggested by the world health organization (WHO) to reduce the virus transmission, whose primary mode of transmission was suggested to be through respiratory droplets. The recommended face coverings were single use surgical and respirator masks made of non-woven materials. With the increased demand for masks worldwide, the environmental impacts of mask disposal and the pollution caused by microplastic fibers of the non-woven materials were presented. This challenge necessitates the need for the development of a novel reusable mask reducing the environmental effects, while providing the necessary personal protective properties. Based on the ASTM F2299 standard test method, the performance, i.e., particle-size dependent filtration efficiency and pressure drop were studied for 20 samples with multilayer knit fabrics of natural and synthetic fibers (inner layer of pure cotton, cotton-nylon and cotton-polyester, middle layer of Lycra, and outer layer of superhydrophobic polyester). The results show that all the samples had an efficiency of >94% and 87–99% for large (250 (Formula presented.) –1 (Formula presented.) m) and small (100–250 nm) particles, respectively. The best performing structure has a material composition of 41% superhydrophobic polyester, 26% natural cotton, 24% nylon and 9% Lycra. The filtration efficiency, pressure drop, and quality factor for this sample are 97.8% (for 100 nm particles), 4.04 mmH2O/cm2 and 4.77 kPa−1, respectively. It was also demonstrated that the developed mask maintains its performance after 50 wash/dry cycles, verifying its reusability. It should be noted that charge neutralizer was not used in the experimental setup of this study which might have led to enhanced results for the filtration efficiency of small (100–250 nm) particles due to the dominance of electrostatic attraction. However, several samples were tested by the third-party company who uses a certified testing equipment based on ASTM F2299, and similar results were obtained. Copyright © 2022 American Association for Aerosol Research.

8.
Jpn J Infect Dis ; 2022 Sep 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-2237342

ABSTRACT

The most common routes of transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 are droplet and contact infections. During dental treatment, many instruments are used that generate droplets of saliva and blood. Several droplets are generated during extraction of an impacted third molar (M3). Surgical masks are often used during tooth extraction; however, the surface structure of surgical masks against droplets is not fully understood. Therefore, we analyzed the droplets adhered to surgical masks during impacted M3 extraction using electron microscopy. A surgical mask used during impacted M3 extraction was studied. The collected surgical mask was divided into three layers and observed using electron microscopy. The outer and inner layers had a similar mesh-like structure, while the middle layer had a denser three-dimensional structure. Droplets ranging from 20-100 µm in size generated during the extraction adhered to the fibers of the outer layer of the mask. Fewer droplets adhered in the middle layer than those in the outer layer. No droplets reached the inner layer. In conclusion, it is suggested that a surgical mask can prevent droplet infection when performing impacted M3 extraction. This study is expected to contribute to the study of infection control strategies during dental treatment in the future.

9.
Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences ; 10(6):1376-1390, 2022.
Article in English | Scopus | ID: covidwho-2217793

ABSTRACT

Due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it is crucial to study the efficiency of face masks in retaining viruses for the upcoming years. The first objective of this study was to validate a method to elute viruses from polyester and cotton face masks. We observed that deionized water followed by 3% beef glycine (pH 9.5 or pH 7.2) was significantly more efficient (p < 0.05) in eluting the bacteriophage phiX174 virus from polyester (4.73% ± 0.25% to 28.67% ± 1.89%), polyester/cotton (3% ± 0.33%), and cotton (1.7% ± 0.21%) face masks than 3% beef glycine only (pH 9.5 or pH 7.2) as a single eluent (3.4% ± 0.16% to 21.33% ± 0.94% for polyester, 1.91% ± 0.08% for polyester/cotton, and 1.47% ± 0.12% for cotton face masks). Also, deionized water was significantly less efficient as a single eluent for eluting bacteriophage phiX174 from all the studied face mask types. The polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation method was substantially more efficient (p < 0.05) as a second step concentration method for the viruses in the eluates than the organic flocculation (OF) method. Higher viral loads were eluted from polyester face masks than cotton ones. We also found varying viral loads in the eluate solutions from different commercial polyester face masks, with the highest percentage seen for the N95 face mask. The second objective was to apply the validated method to study the effect of autoclaving on the different face mask materials. Results of the study did not show any significant differences in the viral loads eluted from the studied face masks before and after one and five autoclaving cycles. Moreover, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed no changes in the yarns, elongation, tensile strength, and contact angle measurements of the polyester or cotton materials after one or five autoclaving cycles. © Production and Hosting by Horizon Publisher India [HPI] (http://www.horizonpublisherindia.in/). All rights reserved.

10.
Food Research ; 6(4):304-311, 2022.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2044348

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 pandemic encourages the utilization of local food sources to ensure food availability. Busil (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) was readily available and affordable in Banjarnegara Regency in the Province of Central Java in Indonesia. However, the busil starch utilization was still rare due to the low functional properties of the native busil starch. The objective of this study was to explore busil starch physicochemical characterization enhancement after microwave irradiation treatment, especially on the stability of heat processing. This research was conducted in two steps. First, microwave treatment (with a variation of energy and irradiation time) of native busil starch (NBS), and the second was modified busil starch (MBS) physicochemical characterization. A rise in amylose was observed on MBS. SEM analysis was shown MBS granules are breakdown. Through viscosity, final viscosity, setback viscosity, peak time, and the pasting temperature of MBS generally were increased. Meanwhile, peak viscosity and breakdown viscosity of MBS was decreased. Thermal properties of MBS like onset (To), peak (Tp), and conclusion (Tc) temperatures were also increased. The degree of whiteness index (DW) of MBS was decreased. FTIR analysis has shown that microwave treatment did not cause functional group alteration. XRD analysis has also demonstrated no change in the diffraction pattern but a slight change in the crystallinity index. Generally, microwave treatment leads to MBS thermal stability and potentially broaden MBS utilization on food processing product.

11.
Galician Medical Journal ; 28(3):3, 2021.
Article in English | Web of Science | ID: covidwho-1979835

ABSTRACT

The coronavirus, which is causing the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and has crippled the entire world, was discovered by June Dalziel Almeida - a school dropout from Scotland who had no formal medical education. She had to master the knowhow of immune electron microscopy to climb up the academic ladder and she finally discovered the coronavirus only to see her research paper getting rejected by reputed journals. A single mother is now associated with the coronavirus, as well as with a significant contribution to the classification of viruses, viral imaging and bringing Rubella virus, Hepatitis B virus and Human immunodeficiency virus into the limelight.

12.
Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering ; 10(4), 2022.
Article in English | Scopus | ID: covidwho-1945561

ABSTRACT

Advancements in polymer science and engineering have helped the scientific community to shift its attention towards the use of environmentally benign materials for reducing the environmental impact of conventional synthetic plastics. Biopolymers are environmentally benign, chemically versatile, sustainable, biocompatible, biodegradable, inherently functional, and ecofriendly materials that exhibit tremendous potential for a wide range of applications including food, electronics, agriculture, textile, biomedical, and cosmetics. This review also inspires the researchers toward more consumption of biopolymer-based composite materials as an alternative to synthetic composite materials. Herein, an overview of the latest knowledge of different natural- and synthetic-based biodegradable polymers and their fiber-reinforced composites is presented. The review discusses different degradation mechanisms of biopolymer-based composites as well as their sustainability aspects. This review also elucidates current challenges, future opportunities, and emerging applications of biopolymeric sustainable composites in numerous engineering fields. Finally, this review proposes biopolymeric sustainable materials as a propitious solution to the contemporary environmental crisis. © 2022 Elsevier Ltd.

13.
Journal of China Pharmaceutical University ; 52(5):547-554, 2021.
Article in Chinese | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-1897186

ABSTRACT

Remdesivir-loaded liposomes for inhalation were prepared and the in vitro properties were evaluated. Firstly, preparation methods of remdesivir-loaded liposomes were screened, and single-factor experiments were conducted to optimize the prescription and preparation process. Then the physical property, deposition ratio and aerodynamic particle size distribution of remdesivir-loaded liposomes suspension for inhalation were comprehensively evaluated. As a result, the optimal liposomes were prepared by the thin-film dispersion method with pH 6. 5 phosphate-buffered saline as the hydration medium. In the prescription, the ratio of drug to DPPC was 1:20;the cholesterol accounted for 10% of total lipids;and 20% DSPE-mPEG 2000 was added as stabilizer. 4% trehalose was added as lyoprotectant when lyophilizing to obtain ideal appearance, good stability and a small particle size change after reconstitution. Remdesivir-loaded liposomes were spherical with smooth surface and uniform particle size distribution under transmission electron microscope. In vitro release tests showed no significant change for release curves of remdesivir-loaded liposomes suspension before and after nebulization. Deposition experiments indicated that the fine particles fraction of liposomes was 51. 4%, and the mass median aerodynamic diameter was less than 5 μm measured by next generation impactor. To sum up, remdesivir-loaded liposomes for inhalation with high encapsulation efficiency and stability can achieve a suitable particle size distribution to effectively deposit in the lung after nebulization, which provides a new approach for the treatment of COVID-19.

14.
Emerging Infectious Diseases ; 28(5), 2022.
Article in English | ProQuest Central | ID: covidwho-1892583

ABSTRACT

Feitelson’s notes on these paintings are telling: “There is nothing fortuitous or ‘automatic’ in the creation of these Magical Space Forms, fantastic though they are. Because I am concerned with durable vitality, rather than momentary frenzy, I find my work demands full participation of both my sensibilities and critical faculties.” Complex viruses have multiple structural components that do not fit neatly into the other classifications. Since the 1980s, millions of people have been killed or sickened by a number of viruses, including human immunodeficiency viruses, coronaviruses, hantaviruses, hepatitis viruses, Ebola and Marburg viruses, dengue viruses, influenza viruses, and the measles virus. Because their evolution has yielded a wide diversity, viruses have maintained a durable vitality. April 19, 2022 The conclusions, findings, and opinions expressed by authors contributing to this journal do not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or the authors' affiliated institutions.

15.
Journal of Urology ; 207(SUPPL 5):e1044-e1045, 2022.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-1886529

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: SARS-CoV-2 can invade different testicular cell types, such as spermatogonia, spermatids, Sertoli, and Leydig cells. We investigated the viral presence inside the sperm of negative PCR infected men up to 3 months after discharge from the hospital. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 13 of a 26 moderate-to-severe SARS-CoV-2 infected men cohort (mean 34.3 ± 6.5 years;range: 21-50 years old). Patients were enrolled 30 to 90 days after the diagnosis. Semen samples were obtained by masturbation and processed within one hour according to WHO guidelines. All patients were PCR negative for the virus in the ejaculate. Samples were liquefied for 30 min at room temperature in 0.1M phosphate buffer before centrifuging at 500 g for 10 min. The supernatant was removed, and pellets were fixed in 2,5% v/v glutaraldehyde in 0.1M phosphate buffer for 2h at 4°C, post-fixed in 1% OsO4 for 1h at 4°C, stained overnight in 1% aqueous uranyl acetate. Then, the pellets were dehydrated sequentially in 30%, 70%, and 100% ethanol and embedded in epoxy resin. Ultrathin sections (70nm) were obtained in an ultramicrotome, collected on nickel grids, and double-stained by uranyl acetate and lead citrate. Micrographs were obtained with a Jeol JEM 1010 electron microscope (Tokyo, Japan, 80 kV). RESULTS: We identified viruses inside spermatozoa in 9/13 patients up to 90 days after discharge from the hospital. Moreover, in all 13 men, a type of DNA-based extracellular traps, probably in a cfDNAdependent manner, like described in the COVID-19 systemic inflammatory response. FIGURE: High magnification electron micrograph of a spermatozoon with the nucleus (nu) displaying the typical condensed chromatin. The remained cytoplasm contains several viral particles (ranging in diameter from 90 to 110 nm). The inset corresponds to a higher magnification of the boxed area containing two virions, showing the SARS-CoV-2 characteristics: viral envelope (white arrowhead), nucleocapsids (black arrowhead), and spike-like projections (white arrow). CONCLUSIONS: Although SARS-CoV-2 is not found in the infected men's semen, it was intracellularly present in the spermatozoa. The potential implications for assisted conception should be addressed. (Figure Presented).

16.
J Microbiol Biol Educ ; 23(1)2022 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1832350

ABSTRACT

The rapid switch to remote teaching with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced educators to become resourceful and creative to meet course learning objectives. This was especially challenging for undergraduate microbiology laboratory exercises. The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Recommended Curriculum Guidelines for Undergraduate Microbiology Education includes providing students with a microscopy experience. To meet these learning objectives in an at-home setting, we utilized two methods which we present as options for remote teaching of microscopy. One method involves students taking home microscopes equipped with oil immersion objective lenses. The other employs the remote operation of a confocal and/or scanning electron microscope through participation in the University of Toledo's SCOPE (Scientists Changing Our Pre-College Education) program. These techniques allowed students to develop competency and confidence in the operation of a microscope. The SCOPE program provided experience with types of microscopes not commonly available to undergraduate students even when in person. In addition to these unique experiences, students can gain microscopy expertise utilizing various virtual microscopy simulations. Together these techniques provide an exciting and robust online microscopy experience for undergraduate microbiology students that can be employed for use in regularly taught online microbiology courses.

17.
Vaccines (Basel) ; 10(5)2022 Apr 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1820444

ABSTRACT

SARS-CoV-2 has become one of the most studied viruses of the last century. It was assumed that the only possible host for these types of viruses was mammalian eukaryotic cells. Our recent studies show that microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract affect the severity of COVID-19 and for the first time provide indications that the virus might replicate in gut bacteria. In order to further support these findings, in the present work, cultures of bacteria from the human microbiome and SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed by electron and fluorescence microscopy. The images presented in this article, in association with the nitrogen (15N) isotope-labeled culture medium experiment, suggest that SARS-CoV-2 could also infect bacteria in the gut microbiota, indicating that SARS-CoV-2 could act as a bacteriophage. Our results add new knowledge to the understanding of the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and fill gaps in the study of the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and non-mammalian cells. These findings could be useful in suggesting specific new pharmacological solutions to support the vaccination campaign.

18.
Open Forum Infectious Diseases ; 8(SUPPL 1):S354, 2021.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-1746494

ABSTRACT

Background. The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in China regarded as a major health/economic hazard. The importance of coming up with mechanisms for preventing or treating COVID-19 has been felt across the world. This work aimed at examining the efficiency of Sitagliptin (SIT) and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) trans-activator transcription peptide (TAT) against SARS-CoV-2. Methods. SIT-TAT nano-conjugates were prepared according to a full three-factor bi-level (23) factorial design. SIT concentration (mM, X1), TAT concentration (mM, X2), and pH (X3) were selected as the factors. Particle size (nm, Y1) and zeta potential (mV, Y2) were assessed as responses. Characterization of the optimized formula for Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) and Transmission electron microscope was carried out. In addition, IC50 in Vero E6 cells, In vitro 3CL-protease inhibition and docking tests were investigated. Results. The prepared complex's formula was as follows 1: 1 SIT: TAT molar ratio, whereas zeta potential and particle size values were at 34.17 mV and 97.19 nm, respectively. This combination did exhibit its antiviral potentiality against SARS-CoV-2 via IC50 values of 9.083 5.415, and 16.14 μM for TAT, SIT-TAT, and SIT, respectively. In addition, the complex SIT-TAT showed a significant (P < 0.001) viral-3CL-protease inhibitory effect (IC50 = 3.959 μM ± 0.011) in comparison to isolated components (IC50 = 10.93 μM ± 0.25) and TAT (IC50 = 8.128 μM ± 0.42). This was further confirmed via in silico study. Molecular docking investigation has shown promising binding affinity of the formula components towards SARS-CoV-2 main protease (3-CL). Conclusion. While offering significant binding interactions with protein's key pocket residues, an optimized formulation of SIT-TAT could guarantee both the enhanced delivery to the target cells and the improved cellular uptake. The presented findings would guarantee further investigations regarding formula optimization against SARS-CoV-2.

19.
Journal of Marine Science and Engineering ; 10(2), 2022.
Article in English | Scopus | ID: covidwho-1686855

ABSTRACT

The global outbreak of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to an extreme increase in the use of disposable masks. If the used disposable masks are not appropriately disposed of, they will enter the natural environment and lead to environmental pollution. In order to understand the impacts of disposable masks after being disposed of into the natural environment, aging experiments with simulated natural conditions were performed on the outer, inner, and middle layers of the masks to verify the aging characteristics of disposable masks. We analyzed the mechanical behavior, surface morphology, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra of disposable masks treated with different levels of UV irradiation to understand the possible changes in the masks under UV. Results showed that the elongation at break, tensile strength, and maximum force of all three polypropylene (PP) mask layers decreased after UV irradiation, indicating chemical bond breakage. In the process of photoaging, each layer of the disposable masks showed a different degree of microscopic surface changes after UV irradiation, and these changes gradually intensified with the extension of UV exposure time. FT-IR results showed that functional groups, such as hydroxyl and carbonyl groups increased in each layer after UV irradiation. The results of this study support that, although the different layers of the disposable masks are all made of PP, they age differently in the environment. With the ever-increasing number of disposable masks in the environment, we need to further study the aging and degradation of disposable masks to better understand their potential impacts on the environment in the future. © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.

20.
Jiliang Xuebao/Acta Metrologica Sinica ; 42(12):1586-1596, 2021.
Article in Chinese | Scopus | ID: covidwho-1674929

ABSTRACT

Under the framework of quantum information processing, the processing procedures of existing quantum-derived image enhancement algorithms are summarized from the aspects of pixel grayscale normalization, pixel quantum state representation, quantum measurement, and measurement result mapping. Taking the SARS-CoV-2 new coronavirus electron microscope image enhancement as a sample, combined with experimental analysis, the weighting method of the quantum derived enhancement operator is improved, and a non-iterative determination operator for the optimized value of the adjustable parameter of the gray scale transformation is proposed. The experimental results show that the quantum-derived enhancement algorithm comprehensively considers the global and local information of the electron microscope image, takes into account the adjustment of the contrast and brightness of the electron microscope image, and enhances the image with clear details and appropriate brightness. © 2021, Acta Metrologica Sinica Press. All right reserved.

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