RESUMEN
We report a point-of-care (POC) device for simultaneous detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A viruses. The device carries out sample preparation using ball-based valves for sequential delivery of reagents. A microfluidic paper-based analytical device (µPAD) in the detection unit enables RNA isolation and enrichment, followed by reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) and colorimetric detection. The device integrates all the necessary steps for the sample preparation, including virus lysis, RNA enrichment and purification of two virus samples. The device enabled simultaneous detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A N1H1 viruses in 50 min., with limit of detection of 2 and 6 genome equivalents (GEs), respectively. The device was also capable of detecting environmental sample of the two viruses. Copyright © 2022 by ASME.
RESUMEN
Epidemiological studies suggest that social isolation is a risk factor of dementia although the underlying mechanisms are not well known. A core component of social isolation is a lack of conversational interactions. We recently completed a NIH-funded multi-center randomized controlled trial called Internet-Based Conversational Engagement Clinical Trial (I-CONECT, ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02871921), which aimed to examine whether social engagement, specifically conversational interactions through webcam and internet, could improve cognitive function in socially isolated older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or normal cognition. The data was un-blinded in August, 2021. We found strong evidence of efficacy in the primary (global cognitive function, Cohen's d = 0.73, p=0.03) and secondary (memory function, Cohen's d=0.67, p=0.03) outcomes at Month 6 (high-dose post-trial endpoint) and Month 12 (maintenance-dose post-trial-endpoint), respectively, using the mixed model for repeated measures. We will present the background, COVID-19 pandemic related protocol modifications and the primary results of this intervention project.
RESUMEN
We report a point-of-care (POC) testing platform for simultaneous detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A virus. The POC device integrates sample preparation using ball-based valves for sequential delivery of reagents, viral RNA isolation and enrichment by paper-based filtration, with reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) and colorimetric detection. The device is capable of detecting both viruses, showing high sensitivity and specificity. © 2021 MicroTAS 2021 - 25th International Conference on Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences. All rights reserved.
RESUMEN
The policies curbing the spread of COVID-19 can influence the chance of committing a crime. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of COVID-19 on the spatial and temporal patterns of crime in Montgomery City, AL, by wavelet analysis, spatial point test, and machine learning tools. We obtained the crime case records between January 1, 2015 to March 12, 2021 from the police department in the City of Montgomery, and we downloaded demographical data from the U.S. Census. Results show that the overall crime rate in Montgomery decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, crime rates would increase in a shorter time than COVID-19 confirmed cases when the social activities increased. Meanwhile, spatial distributions of simple assault, burglary, and vehicle theft had clustered in Montgomery business and shopping areas. These findings are helpful for the police institution in preventing and minimizing crimes as new COVID-19 variants emerge in the future.
RESUMEN
Early and accurate detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at the point-of-care (POC) is crucial for reducing the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To address this need, we have developed a valve-enabled lysis, paper-based RNA enrichment, and RNA amplification device (VLEAD) for detecting SARSCoV-2. We have combined VLEAD with a smart coffee mug for sample preparation, nucleic acid isothermal amplification, and colorimetric detection using a smartphone camera or a naked eye. VLEAD enables two critical functions required for POC testing: sample preparation and detection. Since the reagents can be pre-packaged in the device, all operational steps can be carried out at POC. We have demonstrated the functions of the device by analyzing samples spiked with heat-inactivated SARSCoV-2, which were obtained from BEI Resources. This rapid and highly sensitive POC platform for SARS-CoV-2 detection has a potential to help reduce COVID-19 transmission. Copyright © 2021 by ASME