Articles: sars-cov-2.
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Our study focuses on free energy calculations of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding motives (RBMs) from wild type and variants of concern (VOCs), with emphasis on SARS-CoV-2 Omicron. Our computational analysis underlines the occurrence of positive selection processes that specify Omicron host adaption and bring changes on the molecular level into context with clinically relevant observations. ⋯ Along with delayed immunogenicity and pathogenicity, more viruses may be produced in the upper respiratory tract, explaining enhanced transmissibility. Since in interdependence on the human leukocyte antigen type (HLA type), more SARS-CoV-2 Omicron viruses are assumed to be required to initiate inflammatory immune responses, and because of pre-existing partial immunity through previous infections and/or vaccinations, which mostly guard the lower respiratory tract, overall disease severity is expected to be reduced.
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Observational Study
A cross-sectional observational study of endotracheal intubation and extubation practices among doctors treating adult COVID-19 and suspected COVID-19 patients in South Africa.
Patients with severe COVID-19 may require endotracheal intubation. Unique adjustments to endotracheal intubation and extubation practices are necessary to decrease the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission to healthcare workers (HCWs) while avoiding complications of airway management. ⋯ The study provides valuable insight into the resources used by clinicians and complications encountered when endotracheal intubations and/or extubations were performed. Data from this study may be used to guide future clinical practice and research, especially in resource-limited settings.
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Kate Causey and Jonathan F Mosser discuss what can be learnt from the observed impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunisation systems.
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As the SARS-CoV-2 virus made a pandemic all over the world, its transmission routes became significant. Transmission from human to human is known, but other possible routes are not determined well. ⋯ This study showed that there is no transmission of SARS-CoV-2 virus via sweat. However, general precautions must be taken while doing interventional procedures.
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Feb 2022
Review Meta AnalysisEstimate false-negative RT-PCR rates for SARS-CoV-2. A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Molecular-based tests used to identify symptomatic or asymptomatic patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 are characterized by high specificity but scarce sensitivity, generating false-negative results. We aimed to estimate, through a systematic review of the literature, the rate of RT-PCR false negatives at initial testing for COVID-19. ⋯ This systematic review showed that up to 58% of COVID-19 patients may have initial false-negative RT-PCR results, suggesting the need to implement a correct diagnostic strategy to correctly identify suspected cases, thereby reducing false-negative results and decreasing the disease burden among the population.