Face Mask Research Articles

The Effect of Face Mask Wear on the Ocular Surface and Contact Lens Microbiome.

As face mask wear can result in the redirection of nasal and oral exhalation toward the ocular region, this study investigated the impact of face mask wear on the conjunctiva, eyelid margin, and contact lens (CL) surface microbiome. In this prospective, cross-over study, experienced CL wearers (N=20) were randomized to wear a face mask for 6 hr/day (minimum) for a week or no mask for a week. The conjunctiva, eyelid, and CLs were then sampled. After a 1-week washout period, participants were crossed over into the alternate treatment for 1 week and sampling was repeated. Sampling was bilateral and randomly assigned to be processed for culturing or 16S ribosomal(r) RNA gene sequencing. Culturing showed no effect of mask wear on the average number of bacterial colonies isolated on the conjunctiva, eyelid, or CL, but there was increased isolation of Staphylococcus capitis on CL samples with mask wear (P=0.040). Culture-independent sequencing found differences in the taxonomic complexity and bacterial composition between the three sites (P<0.001), but there was no effect of bacterial diversity within and between sites. Mask wear did not impact dry eye or CL discomfort, but increased ocular surface staining was reported (P=0.035). Mask wear did not substantially alter the microbiome of the conjunctiva, eyelid margin, or CL surfaces in uncompromised healthy eyes.

Development of a Peel-off Facial Mask Formula Containing Crude Extracts of Andrographis Paniculata

Development of a Peel-off Facial Mask Formula Containing Crude Extracts of Andrographis Paniculata

Potential Impacts of Prolonged Face Mask Use on Temporomandibular Joint Health as Neglected Lifestyle Repercussions of COVID-19 Pandemic-A Narrative Review.

Since December 2019, COVID-19 has rapidly spread worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a pandemic and advocate for the widespread use of face masks to mitigate transmission. In this review, we delve into the potential impact of prolonged face mask use on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health, an area that has garnered limited attention amidst COVID-19 research. Research has revealed that improper mask fit and constant readjustment can lead to TMJ abnormalities. Similarly, there is a demonstrated correlation between continuous mask usage and an increased incidence of headaches, temporomandibular pain, and diminished quality of life. Many studies have highlighted discomfort in the preauricular area, headaches, TMJ noises, headache, jaw pain, and muscle fatigue, as well as dermatological disorders, which have been attributed to prolonged mask wear and its impact on TMJ health. Our study catalyzes future research endeavors, urging a deeper exploration of the implications of long-term mask wear, not only in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic but also among occupational groups regularly exposed to extended mask use. By unraveling the complexities of TMJ health in the face of evolving preventive measures, we aim to enhance our understanding of this issue and safeguard the well-being of mask-wearers worldwide.

A New Paradigm on Waste-to-Energy Applying Hydrovoltaic Energy Harvesting Technology to Face Masks.

The widespread use of single-use face masks during the recent epidemic has led to significant environmental challenges due to waste pollution. This study explores an innovative approach to address this issue by repurposing discarded face masks for hydrovoltaic energy harvesting. By coating the face masks with carbon black (CB) to enhance their hydrophilic properties, we developed mask-based hydrovoltaic power generators (MHPGs). These MHPGs were evaluated for their hydrovoltaic performance, revealing that different mask configurations and sizes affect their efficiency. The study found that MHPGs with smaller, more structured areas exhibited better energy output, with maximum open-circuit voltages (VOC) reaching up to 0.39 V and short-circuit currents (ISC) up to 65.6 μA. The integration of CB improved water absorption and transport, enhancing the hydrovoltaic performance. More specifically, MHPG-1 to MHPG-4, which represented different sizes and features, presented mean VOC values of 0.32, 0.17, 0.19 and 0.05 V, as well as mean ISC values of 16.57, 15.59, 47.43 and 3.02 μA, respectively. The findings highlight the feasibility of utilizing discarded masks in energy harvesting systems, offering both environmental benefits and a novel method for renewable energy generation. Therefore, this work provides a new paradigm for waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies and inspires further research into the use of unconventional waste materials for energy production.

An Innovative Technique to Prevent Air Leaks from Cervical Esophagostomy during Face Mask Ventilation.

The objective of the study was to report the indigenous use of an electrocardiography (ECG) electrode in successfully occluding the Cx-esophagostomy to prevent inadvertent loss of tidal volume. Twenty-nine observations were recorded on 27 patients (mean age: 10.9 months; male:female = 2.6:1). The oral cavity, pharynx, and Cx-esophagostomy were cleared of saliva. Peristomal area was cleaned with dry gauze and dried with alcohol. Latex-free, 50 mm, ECG electrode was pasted symmetrically over the Cx-esophagostomy. The efficacy of the electrode was assessed using a five-point algorithm: (i) collapse of reservoir bag, (ii) chest expansion, (iii) ballooning of electrode, (iv) cotton-wisp test, and (v) change in compliance with manual compression of the electrode. Subgroup analysis was conducted for laterality and health of Cx-esophagostomy. Study cohort: Cx-esophagostomy was located on the left in 58.26% (n = 17/29) patients. The health of Cx-esophagostomies was graded from I to IV (n = 9, 16, 3, and 1, respectively). The collapse of the reservoir bag and chest rise indicated successful ventilation. Ballooning of the electrode with each breath was observed in 79% (23/29) patients. Partial separation of the electrode from the skin (exaggerated with each breath) was observed in 10.3% (3/29) patients (Group I: n = 1, Group III: n = 1, and Group IV: n = 1). This was related to poor local preparation or pooling of saliva (n = 1; Group I: resolved with procedural re-application of a fresh electrode) and underlying skin condition (n = 2; Groups III and IV: resolved only temporarily with re-application). The cotton-wisp test was positive in two additional patients (1 each in Groups II and III) and was related to the pooling of saliva. No change in compliance was observed with manual compression of the electrode. No difference in success was observed between left and right Cx-esophagostomies. Overall success with this technique was 82.8% with a potential for 100% in those with peristomal health graded I-III. The ECG electrode is a technically simple, cost-effective, and widely available device, instrumental in addressing the problem of air leak through Cx-esophagostomy during face mask ventilation before intubation.

Experimental investigation of face mask fiber-reinforced fully recycled coarse aggregate concrete

To address the challenges associated with the disposal of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) and discarded personal protective equipment, this study investigates the feasibility of using face mask (FM) fibers to enhance fully recycled coarse aggregate (FRCA) concrete. The current study uses six FM fiber volume fractions (0, 0.1 %, 0.2 %, 0.3 %, 0.4 %, 0.5 %) for FRCA concrete reinforcement. According to the mechanical performance test results, adding FM fibers can enhance the splitting tensile strength (up to 8.22 % contents 0.1 % FM fiber) and flexural strength (up to 26.92 % contents 0.2 % FM fiber) of FRCA concrete. While excessive FM fibers (over 0.3 %) affect compressive strength negatively, the damaged concrete retains integrity due to the bridging action of FM fibers combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Comparatively, the hydrophilic inner layer of disposable medical masks features a better microstructural fiber arrangement, increasing tensile strength by 14.51 % and 111.68 % compared to the filter and outer layers, respectively, making it ideal for enhancing FRCA concrete. All samples achieved a "Good" rating in the UPV tests, confirming the feasibility of FM fiber-reinforced FRCA concrete. The calculation method for FRCA concrete mechanical properties prediction considers the contribution of fibers in addressing the disparate effects of FM fiber incorporation, with correlation coefficients of 0.904 and 0.827 for splitting tensile strength and flexural strength, respectively. Environmental and economic impact analysis indicates that FM fiber-reinforced FRCA concrete can reduce carbon emissions by 71.25 % and save 29.05 % of economic costs.

Public perception on face mask wearing during COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia: A cross sectional study.

Since the emergence of COVID-19, the Malaysian government has made wearing a face mask in public mandatory since August 1, 2020, as an effort by the government to control the transmission of COVID-19. However, Malaysians' willingness to wear face masks in public is unknown. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate their perception of face mask wearing during COVID-19 and its contributing factors. A total of 1024 respondents, aged ≥ 18 years, participated in this online cross-sectional survey from October 2021 to December 2021. The Face Mask Perception Scale (FMPS) was used to measure their perceptions. Most of the respondents perceived wearing a face mask as uncomfortable. Our findings also revealed statistically significant differences and a small effect (f2 = 0.04) in which respondents who were concerned about being infected by the virus perceived face mask wearing appearance positively (B = - 0.09 units of log-transformed, 95% CI = - 0.15, - 0.04), whereas married respondents perceived it negatively (B = 0.07 units of log-transformed, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.09). There were no statistically significant differences in other domains of FMPS. In conclusion, discomfort was a major complaint. Marital status and fear of COVID-19 infection affected their perceptions. The public health implications of these findings highlight the importance of addressing discomfort and societal perceptions, particularly those influenced by factors such as marital status and COVID-19 experience, to promote widespread acceptance and consistent usage of face masks, which is crucial in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

Impact of Face Mask Wearing on Patient-Doctor Communication, and Associated Physical Side Effects

Background: Our study investigated the effect of face masks on communication between doctors and patients and the physical side effects associated with long-term mask use. (of) Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Jordan University hospital (Hospital) outpatient clinic between October 2021 and February 2022. Some 415 patients completed a self-administered questionnaire developed by the researchers based on their clinical observation and literature review. The questionnaire consisted of three main parts which assessed general sociodemographic information, the effect of mask-wearing on patient-doctor interaction, and common physical side effects of mask-wearing. Results: This study shows that wearing face masks had a significant impact on communication between doctors and patients, making it more difficult for patients to understand what the doctor was explaining to them. This poor communication could lead to non-compliance by patients and negatively affect treatment outcomes. Additionally, the study found other negative physical side effects of wearing face masks, such as the appearance of new or worsened acne, breathing difficulties, new-onset headaches, and an increase in the severity and frequency of pre-existing chronic headaches. Conclusion: Suggestions for future research would be to focus on measuring the extent to which poor communication during a consultation affects compliance and treatment outcomes. We also emphasize the importance of bringing these communication difficulties to the attention of healthcare professionals to avoid poor management and direct efforts towards finding solutions that ensure adequate healthcare for patients.

Development of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Integrated Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Electrospun Antibacterial Face Mask

In this study, electrospun nanofiber membranes were successfully fabricated by modifying recycled polyethylene terephthalate (r-PET) with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for face mask applications. The recycling of PET bottles ensures effective waste management, while the electrospinning process facilitates the creation of delicate nano-range fibers. The inclusion of MWCNTs aimed to assess the antibacterial activity of the resulting nanomembranes. The fabricated samples underwent comprehensive characterization, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultimate tensile testing, particulate filtration efficiency (PFE) testing, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and antibacterial sensitivity assays, revealing significant findings. MWCNTs incorporation led to minor bead formation in the membranes, with fiber diameters ranging from 446 to 862 nm. However, MWCNTs resulted in reduced stiffness and tensile properties due to the disruption of polymer chain alignment. The nanofiber membranes demonstrated effective filtration of 0.3 µm particulates, achieving filtration rates between 96 to 97%Functional group analysis confirmed the presence of both r-PET and MWCNTs in the composites. Although the r-PET/MWCNTs 12 kV membrane lacked an antibacterial zone of inhibition, it exhibited reductions of 28.64% for S. aureus and 31.9% for E. coli. These results collectively underscore the potential of r-PET/MWCNTs samples as an alternative nanofibrous membrane material for face masks. J. of Sci. and Tech. Res. 5(1): 63-74, 2023

Functionalized N95 Face Mask with a Chemical-Free Paper-Based Collector for Exhaled Breath Analysis: SARS-CoV-2 Detection with a Printed Immunosensor as a Case Study.

Exhaled breath electrochemical sensing is a promising biomedical technology owing to its portability, painlessness, cost-effectiveness, and user-friendliness. Here, we present a novel approach for target analysis in exhaled breath by integrating a comfortable paper-based collector into an N95 face mask, providing a universal solution for analyzing several biomarkers. As a model analyte, we detected SARS-CoV-2 spike protein from the exhaled breath by sampling the target analyte into the collector, followed by its detection out of the N95 face mask using a magnetic bead-based electrochemical immunosensor. This approach was designed to avoid any contact between humans and the chemicals. To simulate human exhaled breath, untreated saliva samples were nebulized on the paper collector, revealing a detection limit of 1 ng/mL and a wide linear range of 3.7-10,000 ng/mL. Additionally, the developed immunosensor exhibited high selectivity toward the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, compared to other airborne microorganisms, and the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein. Accuracy assessments were conducted by analyzing the simulated breath samples spiked with varying concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, resulting in satisfactory recovery values (ranging from 97 ± 4 to 118 ± 1%). Finally, the paper-based hybrid immunosensor was successfully applied for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in real human exhaled breath samples. The position of the collector in the N95 mask was evaluated as well as the ability of this paper-based analytical tool to identify the positive patient.

The Measurement of Reactions to Face Masks and the Relation to Social Anxiety.

Introduction: Following a period of social isolation from the COVID-19 pandemic, social interactions may be particularly complicated for individuals with elevated levels of social anxiety. One potential implication relates to the use of face masks. Face masks have been used as an effective tool to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. However, for individuals with elevated social anxiety, face masks may be a form of avoidance and type of safety behavior and discontinued use of face masks may be associated with increases in social anxiety. In response to these possibilities, the purpose of this study was to develop a measure to assess potential anxiety-related reactions to face masks. Method: Participants were 564 nonreferred young adults who completed a measure developed for this study to assess behaviors and reactions to face masks (Reaction to Face Masks Questionnaire), including anxiety and avoidance behaviors. Measures of social anxiety, more general avoidance, and safety behaviors were also included. Results: Based on an exploratory factor analysis, a two-factor model was retained. Safety-Seeking and Avoidance (SSA) measures reductions in social anxiety derived from a feeling of safety when wearing a face mask, and Social Interference measures increases in social anxiety symptoms related to the interference/inhibition of social interactions related to wearing masks. Both subscales were found to be associated with general measures of social anxiety, more general avoidance, and safety behaviors; however, the correlations were more robust for the SSA subscale. Discussion: Based on the current findings, general social anxiety and common correlates of social anxiety, including safety-seeking behaviors, were found to be associated with face mask anxiety and avoidance. Implications for future research and potential clinical practice are discussed.

The Effect of Face Masks and Sunglasses on Emotion Perception over Two Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Effect of Face Masks and Sunglasses on Emotion Perception over Two Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Impact of Changing Inlet Modes in Ski Face Masks on Adolescent Skiing: A Finite Element Analysis Based on Head Models

Due to the material properties of current ski face masks for adolescents, moisture in exhaled air can become trapped within the material fibers and freeze, leading to potential issues such as breathing difficulties and increased risk of facial frostbite after prolonged skiing. This paper proposes a research approach combining computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and ergonomics to address these issues and enhance the comfort of adolescent skiers. We developed head and face mask models based on the head dimensions of 15–17-year-old males. For enclosed cavities, ensuring the smooth expulsion of exhaled air to prevent re-inhalation is the primary challenge. Through fluid simulation of airflow characteristics within the cavity, we evaluated three different inlet configurations. The results indicate that the location of the air inlets significantly affects the airflow characteristics within the cavity. The side inlet design (type II) showed an average face temperature of 35.35 °C, a 38.5% reduction in average CO2 concentration within the cavity, and a smaller vortex area compared to the other two inlet configurations. Although the difference in airflow velocity within the cavity among the three configurations was minimal, the average exit velocity differed by up to 0.11 m/s. Thus, we conclude that the side inlet configuration offers minimal obstruction to airflow circulation and better thermal insulation when used in the design of fully enclosed helmets. This enhances the safety and comfort of adolescent wearers during physical activities in cold environments. Through this study, we aim to further promote the development of skiing education, enhance the overall quality of adolescents’ skiing, and thus provide them with more opportunities for the future.

An Experimental Study on the Effect of Disposable COVID-19 Face Masks on the Mechanical Properties of Clay

An Experimental Study on the Effect of Disposable COVID-19 Face Masks on the Mechanical Properties of Clay

Instant Disinfecting Face Masks Utilizing Electroporation Powered by Respiration‐Driven Triboelectric Nanogenerators

AbstractWearing face masks is an effective non‐pharmaceutical strategy to inhibit the transmission of airborne diseases. Nonetheless, most commercial face masks lack disinfecting capabilities, posing risks of secondary transmission, while those with antimicrobial coatings are incapable of instant pathogen inactivation. Herein, a proof‐of‐concept instant disinfecting face mask is demonstrated consisting of a Cu(OH)2‐nanowire electroporation filter powered by a respiration‐driven triboelectric nanogenerator (R‐TENG). The R‐TENG comprises electrospun polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes. A dome‐shaped PVA membrane is specifically designed to maximize the effective contact area. Coupling the novel dome‐shape design with maximized β‐phase crystallites of PVDF, the enhanced R‐TENG generates an open‐circuit voltage of 120 V under the normal breathing rate of an adult, resulting in an amplified electric field of 19 MV m−1 at the nanowire tips of the electroporation filter. Under this high localized electric field, effective inactivation of bacteria (&gt;99.9%) is achieved via a synergy of electroporation and physical penetration. Conversely, when the R‐TENG is disconnected, only partial inactivation (90%–99%) via physical penetration is realized. For the first time, it shows that R‐TENG powered electroporation is a viable solution to achieve instant, effective disinfection, paving the way for next‐generation face masks.

Comparative Analysis of Face Mask Usage and Environmental Impact in Asian Cities during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in face mask demand, resulting in increased face mask waste and environmental impacts. This study investigates mask usage patterns and the environmental impacts of single-use and cloth masks across three phases: pre-COVID-19, COVID-19, and the new normal. A comprehensive survey conducted in five cities across four Asian countries reveals a surge in mask usage during COVID-19 (6.81 pieces/week), followed by a decline in the new normal (3.73 pieces/week), though usage remained higher than pre-COVID-19 levels (1.46 pieces/week). For single-use masks, age significantly impacts usage in all cities, while gender and education level affect usage in Shanghai, Harbin, and Depok. Household income influences mask use in Shanghai and Harbin. For cloth masks, education level significantly correlates with usage in most cities. The study highlights the significant environmental impact of mask use, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Switching to cloth masks for one year could reduce carbon footprints by 44.27–81.9 million kgCO2eq, decrease solid waste by 34.81–52.41 million kg, and reduce microplastic emissions by 6.50 to 15.56 trillion particles in the first 24 h after disposal. However, this transition may increase water usage by 1.73–1.86 billion m3H2Oeq. The study also offers policy recommendations on mask usage and disposal.

Effectiveness of Face Mask for Prevention of Respiratory Tract Infection during Hajj: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The Hajj is an annual mass gathering of people in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Respiratory infections are common due to their potential for rapid spread in crowded settings. There is a lack of data regarding the effectiveness of face masks in preventing respiratory tract infections (RTIs), specifically during Hajj. We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials until July 3, 2023 for studies comparing the incidence or prevalence of RTIs in those who used any face mask during Hajj compared with no mask. Risk ratio (RRs) and 95% CIs were calculated using either a fixed or random-effect model, depending on the heterogeneity. A comprehensive analysis encompassed 10 studies involving 5007 participants. The overall RR favored wearing masks over not wearing masks regarding the incidence of RTIs; however, the difference was not statistically significant (RR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.55-1.10; P = 0.16). A significantly lower incidence of RTIs was found in those wearing masks most of the time versus intermittently (RR = 0.59; 95% CI = [0.38-0.94; P = 0.02). In subgroup analyses, there was no difference between wearing masks and not wearing masks across different study designs (cohort/case-control), different groups (pilgrims/healthcare workers), and different years of Hajj, except from 2000 to 2008, when there was a significant difference favoring wearing face masks. This meta-analysis found wearing masks most of the time was associated with significantly lower risk of RTIs than wearing it intermittently.

Utilizing Carbon Dots Derived from Waste Face Masks for Pentachlorophenol Detection.

Pentachlorophenol is a very toxic chemical that is used as a pesticide, fungicide, herbicide, wood preservative, etc., and it should be monitored in terms of human health and environmental production. Another environmental problem is the increase in the use of facemasks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides a value added chemicals to sustainability of recycling process. Fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) were synthesized from waste facemasks and investigated their fluorescence sensor performances. UV-Vis and fluorescence spectra of the synthesized carbon dots were recorded in different organic solvents. The sensor properties of these carbon dots against pesticides were investigated, and a 'turn-off' response was observed toward pentachlorophenol. The limit of detection was found 8.5 µM in the linear range from 43.3 µM to 375 µM. This study showed that waste plastics such as facemasks can be recycled to obtain carbon dots, which are used in different technological areas such as photocatalysis, bioimaging, etc., as well as in sensors.

Liminal Stigma and the Interference With the Positive Construction of Face Masks: The Case of Online Reactions to an Anti-Mask Rally

Liminal Stigma and the Interference With the Positive Construction of Face Masks: The Case of Online Reactions to an Anti-Mask Rally

Evaluation of eyelid features' changes before and after COVID-19 pandemic amongst healthcare and home office workers.

To evaluate the eyelid features' changes after N95 face mask (FM) usage in healthcare workers through the new type of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and make a comparison with home-office workers as a control group with a computer vision algorithm. Sixty healthcare workers and forty control participants with similar demographic features included. Standardized biometric photographs which were taken before and after the COVİD-19 pandemic, analyzed by the ImageJ program (NIH, Bethesda, Md.) software. The distances between the central light reflex on the cornea and the upper (UE) and lower eyelid (LE) were recorded as the marginal reflex distances. (MRD1, MRD2 respectively) Parameters of pretarsal show (PTS) of UE and brow pupil diameter (BPD) were analyzed for both of the eyes. There were no significant differences among the groups' measurements before the COVID-19 pandemic. In healthcare workers' group after the pandemic, values of MRD1, PTS, BPD showed a significant decrease in their right eye (p = 0.001, p = 0.002, p = 0.001 respectively) and same values reduced in the left eyes as well when compared with pre-pandemic measurements. (p = 0.048, p = 0.001, p = 0.001 respectively) PTS and BPD values were decreased for both right and left eyes of the controls. (p = 0.044, p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, p = 0.001 respectively) MRD1 measurements after the pandemic showed no difference either in the right or left eyes of the control group after the pandemic. (p = 0.071 and p = 0.065 respectively). Results showed that both BPD and PTS values decreased independently from the previous FM usage in both of the groups. Even though MRD1 values remained within the normal values, a significant decrease was detected in the healthcare workers group which suggested the cause was newly developed upper eyelid (UE) dermatochalasis after long hours of FM usage. Although it is hard to make a truly objective evaluation both usage of standardized biometric photographs and a computer-based measurement system makes the results reliable.