Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Research Articles

Medical technologists’ experiences handling medical specimens during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 virus (SARS-CoV-2) was highly infectious and had a high mortality rate. Globally, countries prioritised early disease detection through biological sample collection, analysis, and treatment. Understanding the physical and mental health outcomes that medical technologists experienced as a result of the increased risk of exposure is critical for making recommendations for the successful implementation of new workplace safety standards. Aim: This study attempts to provide a better understanding of medical technologists’ experiences and occupational exposure during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic. Setting: The study was carried out at a Gauteng public laboratory that is a component of South Africa’s national health laboratory services. Methods: The study design was qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual. Ten medical technologists were chosen using a purposive sampling technique. The data were gathered via in-depth, semi-structured interviews, which were audio recorded, professionally transcribed and coded. Tesch’s thematic coding method was used to perform a descriptive analysis. Results: Three key themes were identified: health and safety, negative experiences, and positive self-satisfaction. Medical technologists were concerned about their safety and health while handling COVID-19 specimens because of the challenging work environment caused by the pandemic. This resulted in negative experiences, including stress and anxiety. Despite this, several individuals felt their contributions throughout the pandemic were notable. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic required additional resources, expertise, and training for medical technologists to safely collect and analyse biological samples. Contribution: The study’s findings present an opportunity to develop work-related risk management and support plans for future pandemics.

Predictors of Impaired Treatment Outcomes in COVID-19: A Single-Center Observational Study from Serbia

Background: COVID-19 disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2); it is characterized by a hypercoagulable state that results in an increased risk for embolic and thrombotic vascular complications. The incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) in COVID-19 varies between 20 and 30%. In addition to PE, older age, male sex, the presence of comorbidities, invasive mechanical ventilation, and prolonged hospitalization in intensive care units (ICUs) seem to be the main predictors for impaired treatment outcomes in COVID-19. Materials and methods: A retrospective observational single-center study was conducted between 1 September 2021 and 24 December 2021 involving 2111 patients admitted to the COVID Hospital “Batajnica”, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade. A total of 200 consecutive patients were enrolled in study. Patients were divided into two groups—the study group (100 patients), with COVID-19 and PE, and the control group (100 patients), with COVID-19 but without PE. Results: According to the multivariate regression analysis, the predictors of impaired outcomes in COVID-19 patients are age (p < 0.001; OR 1.134; 95% HR 1.062–1.211), C reactive protein level (CRP) (p = 0.043; OR 1.006; 95% 1.000–1.013), invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) (p < 0.001; OR 58.72; 95% HR 13.784–254.189), pulmonary embolism (PE) (p = 0.025; OR 3.718; 95% HR 1.183–11.681), and hospitalization in ICU (p = 0.012; OR 9.673; 95% 1.660–56.363). Conclusions: We report increased mortality and mechanical ventilation rates in COVID-19 patients with acute PE. Older age, elevated levels of CRP, hospitalization in ICU, and PE present independent predictors for impaired outcomes in COVID-19 patients. To determine predictors for treatment outcomes in patients with COVID-19 and their associations with clinical and laboratory parameters

Precision Medicine and Machine Learning to predict critical disease and death due to Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Precision Medicine and Machine Learning to predict critical disease and death due to Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Prevalence of Persistent Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Abnormalities on PET/MRI and DECT Imaging in Long COVID Patients.

The objective of this study is to describe the prevalence of inflammatory cardiopulmonary findings in a prospective cohort of long coronavirus disease (LC) patients. Methods: Subjects with a history of coronavirus disease 2019 infection, persistent cardiopulmonary symptoms 9-12 mo after initial infection, and a clinical assessment compatible with LC underwent cardiopulmonary 18F-FDG PET/MRI, dual-energy CT (DECT) of the lungs, and plasma protein analysis (subgroup). A control group that included subjects with a history of acute severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection but without cardiopulmonary symptoms at recruitment was also characterized. Results: Ninety-eight patients (median age, 48.5 y; 47% men) were enrolled. The most common LC symptom was shortness of breath (80%), and 27% of participants were hospitalized. Of the subjects, 90% presented abnormalities in DECT, with 67% and 59% of participants demonstrating pulmonary infiltrates and abnormal perfusion, respectively. PET/MRI was abnormal for 57% of subjects: 24% showed cardiac involvement suggestive of myocarditis, 22% presented uptake reminiscent of pericarditis, 11% showed periannular uptake, and 30% showed vascular uptake (aortic or pulmonary). There was no myocardial, pericardial, periannular, or pulmonary uptake on the PET/MRI scans of the control group (n = 9). Analysis of plasma protein concentrations showed significant differences between the LC and the control groups. Lastly, the plasma protein profile was significantly different among LC patients with abnormal and normal PET/MRI. Conclusion: In LC subjects evaluated up to a year after coronavirus disease 2019 infection, our results indicate a high prevalence of abnormalities on PET/MRI and DECT, as well as significant differences in the peripheral biomarker profile, which might warrant further monitoring to exclude the development of complications such as pulmonary hypertension and valvular disease.

COVID-19 Infection or Vaccination Does Not Provide Cross-Protection Against Human Metapneumovirus Infection

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are major respiratory pathogens. This study investigates whether prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination provides cross-protection against HMPV. Nucleotide sequences of HMPV, SARS-CoV-2, and mRNA vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech) were retrieved from the NCBI database. Multiple sequence alignment, BLAST analysis, sequence dot plot and phylogenetic tree construction were performed to assess genetic and structural similarities. Results revealed no significant sequence homology between SARS-CoV-2 genome, structural proteins, mRNA vaccine sequences, and HMPV. HMPV does not share any common linear peptide epitope with SARS-CoV-2. This indicates a complete lack of cross-immunity. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the distinct evolutionary divergence between these viruses. The resurgence of HMPV infections following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions further underscores the need for independent surveillance and vaccine development. These findings highlight the necessity for targeted immunization strategies against HMPV to mitigate future outbreaks. Bioresearch Commu. 11(2): 1778-1786, 2025 (July)

Pharmaceutical perspectives on oligonucleotide therapeutics and delivery systems.

Gene therapy has a pivotal role in treating new diseases. In addition to the recent mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines produced by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna against severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2, several new gene therapies have recently been approved as effective treatments for fatal genetic disorders such as Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, familial transthyretin amyloidosis, hemophilia A, hemophilia B, spinal muscle atrophy, early cerebral autoleukodystrophy, and β-thalassemia. This review provides novel insights into RNA therapeutics focusing on endogenous RNA species, RNA structure and function, and chemical modifications that improve the stability and distribution of RNAs. Furthermore, it includes updated knowledge on clinically approved gene therapies rendering a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical basis and clinical application of gene therapies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: There have recently been significant advances in clinical translation of RNA therapeutics. This review discusses the diverse types of RNA species, RNA structure and function, backbone and chemical modifications to RNAs, and every RNA therapeutic approved for clinical use at the time of writing.

Comparison of the ACE2 receptor and monoclonal antibodies immobilisation strategies for the sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

Comparison of the ACE2 receptor and monoclonal antibodies immobilisation strategies for the sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

SARS-CoV-2-Induced PAPOLG Contributes to Inflammation Response by Stabilizing NF-κB mRNA.

One of the unknowns related to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is the mechanism underlying the inflammatory response induced by the virus. Poly(A) polymerase gamma (PAPOLG) was previously shown to be upregulated during SARS-CoV-2 infection. The present study explored how PAPOLG affects the inflammatory reaction triggered by SARS-CoV-2. PAPOLG was knocked down or overexpressed in THP-1 macrophages. Target pathways were identified using RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The levels of PAPOLG, transcriptional regulator nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 were measured, along with an assessment of NF-κB mRNA stability. PAPOLG was significantly upregulated in SARS-CoV-2-infected THP-1 macrophages. Genes subjected to alternative polyadenylation were enriched in immune pathways, and NF-κB emerged as a key regulator. Knockdown of PAPOLG promoted NF-κB mRNA degradation, while decreasing the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL6). Conversely, overexpression of PAPOLG stabilized NF-κB mRNA and enhanced TNF-α and IL-6 expression. PAPOLG contributes to the inflammatory response in SARS-CoV-2-infected macrophages by stabilizing NF-κB mRNA. Thus, PAPOLG may be targeted to control COVID-19-related inflammation.

Impact of pre-existing anti-polyethylene glycol (PEG) IgM on biodistribution and humoral response of intramuscularly administered PEGylated mRNA loaded lipid nanoparticle.

Impact of pre-existing anti-polyethylene glycol (PEG) IgM on biodistribution and humoral response of intramuscularly administered PEGylated mRNA loaded lipid nanoparticle.

Evaluation of limiting PEEP effectiveness in preventing barotrauma in critically ill COVID-19 patients: A retrospective study.

Evaluation of limiting PEEP effectiveness in preventing barotrauma in critically ill COVID-19 patients: A retrospective study.

Socio-psychological Impacts and Biomedical Applications of Theranostic Nanoparticles for the Treatment and Diagnosis of COVID-19: A Future Perspective

Abstract: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), which originated in Wuhan, China, and spread globally. The objective of this review is to explore the impact of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV- 2) and its global consequences while examining the potential of nanoparticle (NP)-based vaccines and therapeutics for combating COVID-19. This review synthesizes current research on SARS-CoV-2's transmission dynamics, its economic and social impacts, and the role of nanoparticlebased therapies in COVID-19 management. It also evaluates the use of NPs in improving vaccine efficacy, lymphatic transit, and targeted drug delivery, alongside traditional public health measures such as social distancing. The pandemic caused significant global disruption, including economic downturns, widespread lockdowns, and reduced carbon emissions. Despite these setbacks, advances in vaccine research, particularly those using NPs, have shown promise in enhancing immune responses and drug delivery. Social distancing measures have proven effective in curbing transmission, while NP-based treatments are emerging as a viable strategy for targeted therapy and diagnostics. Nanoparticles offer considerable potential in developing new theranostic approaches for COVID-19 treatment, enhancing the effectiveness of vaccines and therapies. The global response to the pandemic has highlighted the importance of both public health measures and innovative medical technologies. Further research into NPs is crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes in the fight against COVID-19. However, this review is limited by the rapidly evolving nature of COVID-19 research, potential gaps in long-term clinical data, and the need for further large-scale trials to validate NP-based approaches. Future studies should focus on optimizing NP formulations, assessing long-term safety, and exploring their broader applications in infectious disease management.

Developing Zika virus-transduced hACE2 expression models for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in vitro and in vivo.

Developing Zika virus-transduced hACE2 expression models for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in vitro and in vivo.

Unlocking the antiviral arsenal: Structure-guided optimization of small-molecule inhibitors against RSV and hCoV-229E.

Unlocking the antiviral arsenal: Structure-guided optimization of small-molecule inhibitors against RSV and hCoV-229E.

Silaproline-bearing nirmatrelvir derivatives are potent inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease highlighting the value of silicon-derivatives in structure-activity-relationship studies.

Nirmatrelvir is a substrate-related inhibitor of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) main protease (Mpro) that is clinically used in combination with ritonavir to treat COVID-19. Derivatives of nirmatrelvir, modified at the substrate P2-equivalent position, have been developed to fine-tune inhibitor properties and are now in clinical use. We report the synthesis of nirmatrelvir derivatives with a (R)-4,4-dimethyl-4-silaproline (silaproline) group at the P2-equivalent position. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based assays demonstrate that silaproline-bearing nirmatrelvir derivatives efficiently inhibit isolated recombinant Mpro, albeit with reduced potency compared to nirmatrelvir. Investigations with SARS-CoV-2 infected VeroE6 cells reveal that the silaproline-bearing inhibitors with a CF3 group at the P4-equivalent position inhibit viral progression, implying that incorporating silicon atoms into Mpro inhibitors can yield in vivo active inhibitors with appropriate optimization. MS and crystallographic studies show that the nucleophilic active site cysteine residue of Mpro (Cys145) reacts with the nitrile group of the silaproline-bearing inhibitors. Substituting the electrophilic nitrile group for a non-activated terminal alkyne shifts the inhibition mode from reversible covalent inhibition to irreversible covalent inhibition. One of the two prochiral silaproline methyl groups occupies space in the S2 pocket that is unoccupied in Mpro:nirmatrelvir complex structures, highlighting the value of sila-derivatives in structure-activity-relationship (SAR) studies. The combined results highlight the potential of silicon-containing molecules for inhibition of Mpro and, by implication, other nucleophilic cysteine enzymes.

Recurrent COVID-19 in a patient with Good's syndrome: a case report and literature review

We herein report a case of recurrent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a 56-year-old female with Good's syndrome (GS) at Peking Union Medical College Hospital in April 2024. The patient was previously treated with thymectomy for thymoma and her immunoglobulin assays and lymphocyte subset analysis confirmed an immunocompromised state characterized predominantly by humoral immunodeficiency, consistent with a diagnosis of GS. Clinical symptoms improved following two courses of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and four courses of molnupiravir, administered alongside adjunctive glucocorticoids and regular intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) supplementation. By the end of August 2024, a review of the literature identified 40 reported cases of COVID-19 in patients with GS worldwide. Among them, 25 met the diagnostic criteria for severe or critical illness, and 12 experienced persistent or relapsing infections. Antiviral therapy was administered in approximately half of the cases, most commonly for a 5-day course. However, four patients required prolonged or multi-target antiviral regimens due to persistent or relapsing infection, with the longest duration reported at 20 days. Convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibodies were used in 15 patients, and adjunctive glucocorticoids in 13. The vast majority received regular IVIG supplementation. Ten patients (25%) with GS and COVID-19 died. Patients with GS are susceptible to prolonged or recurrent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and are at increased risk of severe disease and mortality due to impaired antibody production. Upon diagnosis of GS, IVIG therapy should be initiated. In the context of COVID-19, potential treatment strategies include extended multi-agent antiviral therapy guided by viral load, use of convalescent plasma (where available), and glucocorticoids tailored to disease severity. Further research is needed to define the optimal duration and combination of antiviral and immunomodulatory therapies in this population.

Outcomes of treatment and contributing factors for COVID-19 patients in the intensive care units of designated treatment centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (2021/2022): a retrospective cross-sectional analysis

Introduction: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infection caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus. The World Health Organization declared it a global pandemic, leading to a swift rise in patient numbers that strained healthcare resources. This surge also resulted in an increase in both intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and mortality rates. The objective of this study was to identify the factors influencing treatment outcomes for COVID-19 patients in the ICU at selected treatment centers in Addis Ababa during the years 2021 and 2022. Methodology: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted between September 2021 and November 2022. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses explored the relationships between predictor variables and outcomes. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were utilized to indicate the direction and strength of associations, with a P-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Result: A total of 272 patients participated in the study, resulting in a response rate of 94.11%. Among the participants, 158 (58.1%) were male. The total mortality rate was 186, corresponding to 68.4% of patients admitted to the ICU. Factors influencing treatment outcomes included age over 55 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.69, 95% CI, 1.29–5.58), a symptom duration exceeding 7 days before admission (AOR = 4.06, 95% CI, 2.10–7.85), the presence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (AOR = 10.31, 95% CI, 1.32–80.21), intubation and mechanical ventilation (AOR = 15.39, 95% CI, 5.15–45.91), and the utilization of regional anesthesia (AOR = 0.12, 95% CI, 0.001–0.231). Conclusion: The likelihood of mortality rose with increasing age, delays in admission, the occurrence of complications, and more advanced disease stages, while the use of regional anesthesia appeared to be less associated with death due to COVID-19.

Correlation between Androgenetic Alopecia and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Omicron Variant Infection in China.

Correlation between Androgenetic Alopecia and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Omicron Variant Infection in China.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Seroprevalence and Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Trends: Findings from Surveillance Conducted at First Antenatal Care Visits in Kenya, Nigeria, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, and Zambia, 2021-2022.

Estimates of exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the African continent are limited, constrained by availability of testing and case report data. To improve understanding of COVID-19 burden, monthly severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) serosurveillance was implemented at first antenatal care visits (ANC1) across six sub-Saharan African countries (Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zambia). A standardized questionnaire, including COVID-19 vaccination history, was administered, and a blood sample was collected. Serology was conducted with two assays: in Nigeria, a multiplex bead-based assay targetting spike protein, receptor binding domain (RBD) 591, and nucleocapsid (N) protein and in all other countries, a SARS-CoV-2 human IgG antibody test including RBD, N protein, and hybrid RBD-N. The largest monthly change in seropositivity was between December 2021 and January 2022 for five countries (Kenya: 33.2-70.3%, Malawi: 28.3-59.6%, Mozambique: 29.3-72.8%, Nigeria: 52.4-77.4%, Uganda: 55.7-80.6%), coinciding with the Omicron wave. Aside from Mozambique, there was an increase in the proportion of women reporting COVID-19 vaccination beginning in January 2022, with highest vaccination rates between April and August 2022. Relatedly, there was an increase in the proportion vaccinated among those with detectable SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Adenoviral vector accounted for at least half of the vaccines reported in all countries. If pregnant women are not differentially infected, ANC1 can be leveraged for serosurveillance during a pandemic. Monthly seroprevalence estimates alongside vaccination rates can provide evidence for changes in protective immunity in response to case waves and the introduction of protective measures.

Boosting virus enrichment with macroporous magnetic sorbent based on ketoenamine covalent organic framework.

Boosting virus enrichment with macroporous magnetic sorbent based on ketoenamine covalent organic framework.

COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate and Vaccination Rates in the US Military, 2020‒2022.

Objectives. To assess the effect of the vaccination mandate on COVID-19 vaccination rates and identify independent factors associated with lack of postmandate vaccination among service members. Methods. We assessed all active component service members for COVID-19 vaccination status from December 11, 2020, to January 1, 2022. We used comparative interrupted time series analysis and logistic regression to compare pre- and postmandate completion of the vaccine series between the US military and the US general population. Results. Previous documented infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), lower rank, and non-Hispanic Black race were associated with lower premandate vaccination. Postmandate vaccination rates were significantly higher in the active component population (P < .001) compared with the premandate period and the US population. Also notable was the higher incidence of postmandate vaccination among those who were non-Hispanic Black or of lower rank. Conclusions. The US military's COVID-19 vaccination mandate was effective at both increasing overall vaccination rates and reducing disparities in vaccination, including race and ethnicity and rank. Vaccine mandates increase the receipt of vaccines and promote health, readiness, and equity within the US military. (Am J Public Health. 2025;115(7):1146-1156. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2025.308120).