#Negative RT PCR

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved on our archive

Whenever you hear someone trying to blame kid's poor test scores "post pandemic" on "lockdowns," show them this.

By Dr. Sushama R. Chaphalkar, PhD.

New research shows that mild COVID-19 alters brain structure and connectivity in key areas responsible for memory and cognition, emphasizing the lasting effects on young people’s brain health.

In a case-control study published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cognitive tests to examine brain structure, function, and cognition in adolescents and young adults with mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared to healthy controls in a pandemic hotspot in Italy. They identified significant changes in brain regions related to olfaction and cognition, with decreased brain volume and reduced functional connectivity in areas like the left hippocampus and amygdala, which were linked to impaired spatial working memory. Notably, no significant differences were observed in whole-brain connectivity, suggesting that these changes were localized rather than widespread.

Background COVID-19, primarily known for respiratory symptoms, also affects the central nervous system, leading to neurological issues like headaches, anosmia, and cognitive changes. MRI-based studies reveal anatomical brain changes in COVID-19 patients, such as reduced gray matter and decreased volume in regions like the hippocampus and amygdala, often linked to cognitive deficits.

While research mostly focuses on severe cases and older adults, a majority of infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, occur in adolescents and young adults who also experience long-lasting cognitive symptoms.

This age group, undergoing key brain development, is impacted by changes in spatial working memory and brain structure, which are crucial for cognitive functions shaped by social interactions, significantly disrupted by the pandemic.

Given that this is the largest and most understudied population affected by COVID-19, understanding the brain and cognitive impacts in adolescents and young adults is vital.

Therefore, researchers in the present study compared anatomical, functional, and cognitive outcomes, utilizing a longitudinal design that allowed them to assess both pre- and post-infection differences, in COVID-19-positive and negative adolescents and young adults from Lombardy, Italy, a global hotspot during the pandemic.

About the study The present study involved participants from the Public Health Impact of Metal Exposure (PHIME) cohort, a longitudinal investigation of adolescents and young adults in northern Italy. Between 2016 and 2021, 207 participants, aged 13 to 25 years, were included in a sub-study with MRI scans and cognitive tests. After COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, 40 participants (13 COVID+ and 27 COVID−) participated in a follow-up study, which replicated the MRI and cognitive assessments.

The mean age of participants was 20.44 years and 65% were female. COVID+ status was confirmed through positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests within 12 months of follow-up. Neuropsychological assessments used the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) to evaluate spatial working memory.

MRI and functional MRI data were acquired using a 3-Tesla scanner, processed, and analyzed for structural and local functional connectivity using eigenvector centrality mapping (ECM) and functional connectivity (FC) metrics. Whole-brain functional connectivity metrics showed no significant differences between COVID+ and control groups, indicating that the observed changes were specific to key brain regions rather than generalized across the entire brain.

Statistical analysis involved the use of pairwise Student's t-tests, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, linear regression, two-waves mediation analysis, negative binomial regression, and linear regression, all adjusted for covariates.

Results and discussion Significant differences were observed in the two groups regarding the time between assessments, COVID-19 symptoms, and vaccine status. The research identified five localized functional connectivity hubs with significant differences between the two groups, including the right intracalcarine cortex, right lingual gyrus, left frontal orbital cortex, left hippocampus and left amygdala, which is vital for cognitive functions. Only the left hippocampal volume showed a significant reduction in COVID+ participants (p = 0.034), while whole-brain connectivity remained unchanged, reinforcing the localized nature of the brain changes.

The left amygdala mediated the relationship between COVID-19 and spatial working memory "between errors" (p = 0.028), a critical finding that highlights the indirect effect of amygdala connectivity on cognitive function in COVID+ individuals. This mediation analysis underscores the role of specific brain regions in influencing cognitive deficits, as only the indirect effect was statistically significant for spatial working memory errors. The orbitofrontal cortex, involved in sensory integration and cognitive functions, also showed decreased connectivity in COVID+ individuals, supporting previous findings of structural and functional changes in this region during COVID-19.

The study is limited by small sample size, lack of diversity, potential confounding factors due to the long interval between MRI scans, treatment of certain subjects as COVID-negative based on antibody testing beyond the 12-month threshold, and the possibility of non-significant findings in mediation analysis due to these factors.

Conclusion In conclusion, the findings indicate persistent structural and functional alterations in specific brain regions of COVID-19-positive adolescents and young adults, including changes in gray matter volume and localized functional connectivity, which correlate with diminished cognitive function, particularly in working memory.

Further research is necessary to evaluate the longevity and potential reversibility of these brain and cognitive changes post-infection, enhancing our understanding of post-COVID outcomes and informing future interventions and treatments. The longitudinal design of this study, with pre- and post-COVID data, strengthens these findings by allowing direct comparisons over time, offering robust insights into the impact of COVID-19 on adolescent brain development.

Journal reference: COVID-19 related cognitive, structural and functional brain changes among Italian adolescents and young adults: a multimodal longitudinal case-control study. Invernizzi, A. et al., Translational Psychiatry, 14, 402 (2024), DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-03108-2, www.nature.com/articles/s41398-024-03108-2

[krystelprado]

The one where everything felt surreal

Hi, you're probably reading this because you've read the first one about my labor. Here you'll learn how my birth experience went as raw as I can describe it because I won't sugar-coat anything. I've been lied to about this! Imma make sure that the lies ends here. lol!

Around 9pm, we safely arrived at the hospital. I want to stress out on the "safely" part of this arrival because RJ is just laser-focused on the "faster" part and the rest of the ride was just a bunch of honking. I don't know how many times I've squeezed his arms every time a contraction hits, maybe that's the reason why.

We were settled at the E.R., I was comforted by the sight of my doctor. She said that she just delivered a baby that's why she's there. She sent me to one of her resident doctors to be IEd so she could assess what CM the opening of my cervix is at. Now, I am at 4cm.

I'm like, wtf! Really?! After all that wrenching pain, we're still at 4cm?!

She said she'll be back for me in the morning or even before that, anyway she already told her resident doctors to monitor me and my baby.

At the E.R., they attached a contraction and fetal heart monitor on my belly and kid you not, that's when my contraction really up its intensity to x5 and the intervals are just now down to 1-2mins apart! I was just so lucky that RJ was still allowed to stay with me at the E.R. Without him there, I wouldn't know where to get some courage to stay awake through the pain. We were settled at the ER first since my RT-PCR result is still not in, once I get the negative RT-PCR result back, that's when they'll put me on the L&D floor along with the other laboring moms. I let RJ get some power nap because I know it would still take time. This time, I can no longer bear the pain but gladly, my mother and sisters are there with me virtually, monitoring and cheering my soul up. Thank God for the gift of family! It truly helped me divert my attention from the pain. I can still even joke around while messaging them.

I just really wished it's the same environment they allow in the L&D floor.

Around 11pm, RJ told me that my negative RT-PCR results are in. This is where he'd leave me. He'll stay in our room while I will be taken on the L&D floor waiting for my cervix to open, wider enough to deliver a baby. I was not allowed to bring anything even my mobile phone. It was just me and my IV line, in a hospital gown with my huge belly. The orderly who assisted me going up even said, "Oo ma'am, ikaw lang didto. Bawal cellphone. Sunod kita ninyo ni Sir naa na si baby." RJ and I looked at each other and said our goodbyes, see you later.

Little did I know this is where my agony starts.

Before entering the L&D room, they had me remove my footwear and wear the sanitized ones they have. I can already tell how weak the lights are from the entrance. For some reason, that added to my tension. It gives off very despairing vibe which is the very last thing a laboring mother needs. The nurse who met me upon arrival asks me to climb up to the table because a doctor will attend to me in a while for IE. Shet, kaingon gyud ko'g IE na sad?! I hate it when it's the male resident doctor who'd do it on me because he's not therapeutic - at all! Well, guess what, it's him the nurse pulled. It was only postpartum when I realized, I can decline him! We're in a private hospital, I can despise him and ask for another doctor to do it for me. Sorry self, my laboring brain wasn't braining anymore.

Almost midnight, I'm still at 4cm.

As I counted, I am the seventh mom brought in the L&D. At this point, I succumb to the pain. The L&D room of the hospital is not at all mending! The room's lights are dim, it's freezing cold, and the other portion of the room, which beds aren't occupied, had the lights turned off. Imagine how dark it is. I cannot even clearly see the faces of the other moms I am in labor with! If I can rate the pain I am feeling at this moment, it's already 50/10. I felt so off and terrified the moment I was settled on one of the beds there. I can feel every movement of my baby and the contraction is coming in stronger every time. I'm sobbing in agony. I felt so alone. You know, when you're in pain, feeling you're the only one in that room with no one to turn to is adding to the weakness and vulnerability I'm feeling. I've verbalized for so many times that I can no longer bear the pain and it's mostly my back that hurts, not the lower part of my belly - which they always say, "sakit sa may pus-on, Ma'am? Ana gyud na, Ma'am." Like, no, it's my lower back that's in pain, pinching needles kind of pain. But nada! The male doctor from his station even said, "Kinsa manang sige'g hilak diha?" Referring to me, duh! At this point, I'm ready to go out of the L&D room and look for RJ. After that male doctor sarcastically asked, one of the nurses went up to me and ask, again, if my pus-on hurts. Again, I said, I can't feel any pressure on my lower belly every time a contraction hits. I'd feel it in my entire belly. With our without contraction, my lower back hurts and that's the pain I cannot tolerate at this point. She arranged the FH and contraction monitor in a way that it won't squeeze my lower back and returned to the male resident doctor. After a few minutes, that same nurse went up to me and asked me if I'd rather get painless medicine. At the back of my mind, I recalled what my mom and sister said not to get it because it would somehow lose my urge to push. I was confused at this point. I'd want to push naturally but if this pain would continue for the next 3 hours, given that I am still at 4cm, I won't make it. I really won't. So, I asked the nurse, sorry this question I'm about to ask is kinda dumb knowing I'm aware of how this goes because of my medical background but whatever lol, I asked it anyway. I said to the nurse, "If magpa-painless ako, mag take effect yan agad? Or later pa? Kay di nagyud nako makaya ang sakit." She only answered me this, exactly this, "Ay sige lang Ma'am, i-explain mana ni Doc." she then turned her back on me and left. Like, huh?! That didn't answer my question?! Hellooo? Whatever, so, I am still in x100 pain. While waiting for the doctor to "explain" things to me. I have called all the saints there is possible, prayed to God to stop this misery, and I have confessed all my sins over and over again! I have already asked forgiveness to my child I am about to deliver if she lives after this delivery and I won't, she should know that I love her. Yes, I had this entire monologue in the L&D room because of the pain. I don't really know anymore what to do. Again, I am very terrible at handling physical pain. I have zero pain tolerance.

After sometime, one nurse and one orderly went up to me, arranged my monitors and IV in bed, and rolled me going outside the L&D room! Like, hello? Are you even gonna tell me where we're heading?! But I didn't bother to ask, I don't care anymore where they're taking me. I have zero energy at this point. Next thing I know, they're asking me to climb up the delivery table. So we're in the DR now. There I saw my anesthesiologist, as how she introduced herself to me and that she will be the one administering my epidural. Oh, so I'm getting the painless now? Where's the explaining part?! She's a female doctor, by the way. So I asked her the question I asked the nurse a while ago. She answered me in a very comforting way an in-pain and laboring mother can register into her mind. She asked me quite a few times if I am sure. And sorry Mama, but I am getting the epidural.

I am getting an epidural for the first time in my life! I knew how it's administered but this is the first time that it will be done on me. My anesth doctor is still preparing the things she'll need for the procedure, while prepping, she keeps pep talking me. She asked if it's my first pregnancy, how was the labor so far, the contractions, and keeps reassuring me that I can do it and that she's seeing a brave woman in me by simply enduring the pain for hours. Literally, an angel in the sick room. At last! Someone who's nice to me through this labor pains! At this point, my contractions are so awful that every time it stops, I take the interval rest so seriously that I fall asleep that quickly, and then wake up again once the next contraction hits! That's how painful my contractions are. My anesth never left my side so she noticed that I fall asleep in between contractions. She's the one who told me that I should always be awake and alert. She gently holds my head and say, "Tel, ayaw katulog, tel. Close lang ug eyes kung kapuy pero ayaw ug katulog ha? Dili dapat ka matulog." And I always answer her, "Doc, sakit kaayo. Lami i-tulog if mawala ang sakit." She bats an eye to the nurses around us and two of them started talking to me keeping me awake. Few minutes from there, I saw a female resident doctor, she came up to me and ask for a permission to do IE before they administer the epidural. Still, 4cm. This is already around 1-2am.

Before they put me on epidural, the nurses attempted to ease my pain, they turned me sideways with a pillow in between my legs. This is not only to lessen my contraction pains, it will also encourage my cervix to dilate faster. They said, they'll continue this 'til 3am and see if my cervix dilates. My pain is not lessen, even a bit! The nurses started to notice that I am already crying. At least I am awake, duh. Every time they hear me sob in pain, either one of them would come up to me and repeatedly tell me this, "Ma'am, ayaw ug hilak, Ma'am kay di mana mkatabang. Mawad-an ra ka'g kusog unya mag push sige ka'g hilak. Oh, uban mama gani hilom lang." Like, wtf!? Hawa mo diri sa akong atubangan! And by the looks of them, they're way younger than I am and their body, from my perspective, it looked like it never had another human being inside it, so uh uh, don't talk to me as if you know my pain. I started bawling my eye out and this time I am intentionally making it louder to release the pain. Idc anymore! My anesth started talking to me again, "Ano man, Tel? Mag epidural na ta?" and I immediately, no hesitation, said yes. Quickly, she had a male orderly help me curl up.

Idk if someone already put this out there, but man! Getting epidural in between contractions is freakin' hell! Imagine, you're in a cold delivery room with only your delivery gown covering you from freezing, on a delivery table with every eyes on you, a male orderly asks you to curl up like a shrimp and he will hold that position for you until your anesthesiologist puts the epidural line in place!? Like, did anyone discuss how was that?! Because for me, it's out of this world insane! The male orderly even have to shout at me to make me stay still. My doctor's hands, even with gloves, is so cold! Every time she holds my lower back, I can feel tingles and it makes me jerk. The male orderly, I can vividly remember told me, "Ma'am, ma'am!! Ayaw'g lihok ma'am kay isulod na ni doc saimong likod, please ma'am please lang ma'am para di naka masakitan." HAHAHA thinking about it now, that was freaking insane and I did that! Holy molly!! After several attempts, I got used to my doctor's cold hands and she successfully put the epidural line in place.

A few minutes after that, I can feel my waist down starts numbing. I told my anesth and she confirmed that it is in fact taking effect right away, I should start feeling numb from the waist down. I can still feel a bit of pain but that should only be the pressure that comes from the contractions. She's still there, pep talking me. It really helped! We've talked a lot of things, but sorry, my laboring brain cannot recall a thing about it lol. I feel at ease with her and from my 100/10 pain scale, it's down to 4/10. Sick, right?! Why did they make me suffer like that for so many hours when I can just have this?! lol. The nurses continued putting me sideways. They turn me to the other side, idk, every 30mins? At around 4am, my doctor arrived. Finally, a familiar face! She IEd me right away, and I am already at 6cm. Thank goodness! An improvement, not a lot but at least there's something happening. I guess turning me from side to side helped. After a while, I started to feel like I'm losing the numb. I can feel all the pain and started crying again. I told my anesth that I'm feeling the pain again, she said, "Tel, everything is okay naman. Anjan parin yung epidural line. Check natin ha?" So she did, and figured that the line inserted to me is dislodged halfway. That's why the pain is back! At this point, I didn't mind much of this pain because I am already feeling alleviated just by the thought of my Ob-Gyne being here. Here's when they ask me to start pushing every time I can feel a contraction. So it started, the orchestrated pushing. 2 nurses by my left side, 1 anesth on the right and 2 OBs by my foot, they ordered me to push for 10 secs. and we're gonna do the same pushing, 3x. And OMG! That didn't even helped her move a centimeter. My Ob-Gyne started talking to RJ outside for a plan B or for worse case scenario. She's letting him know that if ever there's no improvement in the next 2 hours, we'll have to prepare for an emergency C-section considering the fhr. At this point, I'm already getting nervous, scared and in so much pain - all at the same time. I don't want to get a C-section because 1. I wanted to deliver it normally as NSD babies are proven scientifically to be more healthy growing up than c-section babies, 2. I am not mentally prepared for having a c-section, lastly, it's expensive. In between my trial pushes, my OB talks to me, gives me an update what's happening outside. I learned from her that she was able to talk to my mom over videocall. She said that my mom is worried but reassured me that they're with me, whatever my decision will be. My OB is still encouraging me to push and that I can do this via NSD. I do not have an actual problem with that since that's what I also prefer, however, I am afraid this might go south due to my cervix opening not getting an improvement at all. And also, the pain! It's really making me impatient. I just want to get over everything and rest.

2 hours, that's my deadline. If we go beyond that, we're gonna prepare for C-section. I have been crying intently at this point because of the pain. I can almost feel everything. It also added some pressure on me when I noticed I was actually facing a huge glass window and that it's almost sunrise! In my cloudy head, I said to myself, I've been here before midnight yet it's morning now and I am still stuck here, very pregnant! I'm already very tired and in pain - the pain is just so awful that I can only open my eyes halfway. I glanced at the clock, it's past 6am when they started to move rather quickly, I glanced on my right to check my baby's heart rate monitor and it's already noticeably low. I said to myself, oh, that's why they're moving now. I looked at my Anesth and she's already communicating to my OB. My OB started ordering the nurses to prepare "faster." This time, they're finally telling me my baby's heart rate is low so we need to get the baby out, ASAP. My Anesth and OB are still talking since I'm crying that I am in so much pain, I can't concentrate pushing with this kind of ache. They agreed to put me on another dose of anesthesia before pushing. I gave my consent. I glanced at what's happening around and it took me a while to contain that this is really happening, at any moment now, I'm gonna see my baby. I can still see everyone's game-face on beneath the masks they're wearing. I started to calm down knowing that they got me. My OB started commanding everyone to focus and acquainted me on pushing. "1,2,3 push and then mag count kami Tel ng 10 seconds, push for 10 secs. Repeat natin 'yan 'til lumabas si baby. Okay?" My anesth is holding my head and shoulders - an actual safe support for me while pushing.

In just two cycles of pushing, I heard, "Baby out!" and with my eyes half open, I saw them putting my baby on my chest but then taking them away quickly because she's not crying!

[killed-by-choice]

Ashwini Thavai, 36 (India 2021)

In India in 2021, 36-year-old Ashwini Thavai was pregnant in a global pandemic. When she was 6 weeks pregnant, she was pressured to have a legal abortion for unspecified “health reasons”. Far from being good for her health, abortion would soon kill her.

Ashwini was given the abortion pill, but it resulted in an incomplete abortion, a common complication of the pill. On May 1 she was brought to the hospital for a surgical procedure to remove the corpse of her baby, but she bled heavily and died just 45 minutes after being transferred to another hospital.

From there, a cover-up began to try to hide the real cause of death. 6 doctors (2 of them from the pathology lab) tried to blame Ashwini’s death on COVID-19 and refused to hand over her body for further examination. Their fraud was exposed when from an antigen test and RT-PCR tests performed the day before her death all stated that she was Covid-negative.

All 6 of the doctors involved in the death and cover-up were booked by police. (Important note: Abortion is legal in India, but killing a woman with an abortion is not.)

Abortion-related maternal deaths are not as rare as abortionists want people to think. This is not the first time someone attempted to blame a legal abortion death on another cause. There may be many more cases similar to Ashwini that haven’t been discovered yet.

https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/doctors-botch-abortion-try-to-show-fatality-as-covid-death-booked/ar-AAPFNFH

[cytgen]

Abstract We obtained the full-length cDNA clone of KAP26.1 in Liaoning cashmere goat, and then we further investigated biological functions of KAP26.1. First, we discovered KAP26.1 was specifically expressed in internal root sheath of skin hair follicles by semi-quantitative reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction (semi-quantitative RT-PCR), hybridization in situ; immunohistochemistry revealed KAP26.1 was located in the internal and external root sheaths. Next, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results showed relative KAP26.1 expression quantity was significantly different between primary and secondary follicles during anagen, catagen, and remarkably increased during telogen. Moreover, after inhibiting Noggin expression, we found relative KAP26.1 expression quantity significantly declined; after KAP26.1 overexpression, we found relative Noggin expression quantity highly significantly declined. Finally, we found MT played a positive role in KAP26.1 and KAP26.1 expression; FGF5 and IGF-1 palyed a negative role in KAP26.1 and blocked the degradation of KAP26.1. The results revealed KAP26.1 played an important role in regulating fine hair development.

[arya-namdeo-45]

Booking a COVID-19 Test: A Simple Guide for Staying Safe (Even in 2024!)

The world may be a different place than it was a few years ago, but COVID-19 is still a concern. Whether you're experiencing symptoms, need a test for travel, or just want peace of mind, getting a COVID-19 test can be a straightforward process. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about booking a COVID-19 test in clear and simple language.

Why Get Tested?

There are several reasons why you might need a COVID-19 test. Here are a few common scenarios:

You're experiencing symptoms: If you have a fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that could be COVID-19, getting tested is crucial. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the virus and ensure you get the right treatment.

Travel requirements: Many countries and regions still have travel restrictions in place, and a negative COVID-19 test might be required for entry.

Peace of mind: Even if you're not feeling unwell, you might want a test for peace of mind, especially if you've been around someone who has tested positive.

Types of COVID-19 Tests

There are two main types of COVID-19 tests available:

RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction): This is the most common and considered the gold standard for detecting an active COVID-19 infection. A swab is taken from your nose or throat to collect a sample, which is then analyzed in a lab. Results typically take 24-48 hours.

Rapid Antigen Tests: These tests provide quicker results (often within 15-30 minutes) but are less accurate than RT-PCR tests. They might be a good option if you need a result quickly, but a positive test should be confirmed with an RT-PCR test.

Finding a Testing Location

Now that you know why you might need a test and what types are available, let's explore how to find a testing location. Here are some options:

Government Websites: Many government health departments maintain lists of approved testing facilities. This is a reliable way to find trusted testing centers in your area.

Online Directories: Several online directories list COVID-19 testing locations. Look for reputable websites with clear information about testing options, costs, and turnaround times.

Pharmacies and Clinics: Some pharmacies and walk-in clinics offer COVID-19 testing.

At-Home Testing: At-home test kits are becoming increasingly available. These kits typically involve collecting a sample yourself and mailing it to a lab for processing.

Booking Your Test

Once you've found a testing location, it's time to book your appointment. Here's what you can expect:

Contact the testing center: Most facilities allow you to book online, by phone, or even walk-in (depending on availability).

Provide your information: You'll likely need to provide your name, contact details, and insurance information (if applicable).

Schedule your appointment: Choose a time slot that works for you.

Understand the cost: Testing costs can vary depending on the location and type of test. Some tests might be covered by insurance, so be sure to check beforehand.

Preparing for Your Test

Here are some things to keep in mind before your test:

Follow any specific instructions provided by the testing center.

Bring a valid ID.

Wear a mask.

If you're having symptoms, inform the testing center beforehand.

Getting Your Results

The timeframe for receiving your results will depend on the type of test you take. RT-PCR tests typically take 24-48 hours for results, while rapid tests can provide results within minutes. The testing center will usually contact you directly with your results.

What to Do After Your Test

If you test positive for COVID-19, the testing center will provide you with further instructions, which might include isolation guidelines and information on how to access treatment. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Staying Safe

While COVID-19 may be a part of our reality, there are ways to stay safe. Here are some tips:

Get vaccinated and boosted if eligible.

Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing.

Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces or around people who are sick.

Maintain physical distance from those who are unwell.

Conclusion

Getting a COVID-19 test  s a simple process that can give you peace of mind and help

[pnguyenst]

Visitors who have been fully vaccinated can enjoy tours in the central province, while those who have received one Covid vaccine dose will need to furnish a negative Covid certificate obtained via RT-PCR or rapid testing.

[screenshots123]

📆 15 Feb 2024 📰 Researchers identify episodic MERS cases in Kenyan camels, evidence of infection in people 🗞️ CIDRAP

Year-long sampling of dromedary camels in northern Kenya reveals biphasic (two-phase) peaks of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and identifies more than three case clusters over 3 weeks in camels from different areas, as well as a 15% infection rate in slaughterhouse workers.

For the study, published yesterday in Emerging Infectious Diseases, a University of Nairobi–led research team sampled 10 to 15 camels from 12 different regions 4 or 5 days a week from September 2022 to September 2023.

MERS is a respiratory disease caused by a relative of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. MERS can cause severe lung infection, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and death. It was first discovered in humans in Saudi Arabia in 2012 and has since spread to many other countries. There is no vaccine against MERS, and treatment consists of supportive care.

Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detected MERS-CoV RNA in 1.3% of camels. The incidence peaked in early October 2022, at 11.7%, and February 2023 (12.1%), corresponding to Kenya's dry seasons, when camel calves lose their maternal antibodies.

On enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), MERS-CoV IgG levels in 369 random samples showed an 80.8% seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. IgG levels were lowest in June and highest in March. IgG levels were negatively associated with RNA positivity.

IgG reactivity was identified in 7 of the 48 slaughterhouse workers (14.6%), with 1 of them showing evidence of MERS-CoV neutralizing antibodies. None were severely ill.

"Our sustained sampling of dromedary camels showed a biphasic MERS-CoV incidence in northern Kenya not observed in previous studies," the researchers said. "One explanation might be the short time of virus excretion in MERS-CoV–infected dromedaries, making viral RNA detection difficult without daily surveillance."

[bio-basic-inc]

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[covid-safer-hotties]

Dutch participatory surveillance framework for evaluating evolutionary changes on SARS-CoV-2 affecting Rapid Diagnostic Test sensitivity in 2022 –2023 - Preprint Posted Sept 10, 2024

An interesting preprint that shows us water does indeed make things wet: The majority of rapid test negatives come from human error (first and foremost, not using RATs to serial test)

Abstract Background Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) have been pivotal in the diagnostics for SARS-CoV-2 and policies surrounding self-isolation. When self-testing policies are in place a decreased sensitivity of the virus to RDTs can give benefits for viral spread. However, to monitor for reduced sensitivity of RDTs we rely on the collection of SARS-CoV-2 positive samples from RDT negative patients. Infectieradar, a national participatory surveillance that registers influenza-like symptoms is used as a framework to study false-negative RDT results due to emergence of new virus variants.

Methods Participants report weekly on RDT use and symptoms linked to Acute Respiratory Illness (ARI). Each week, all RDT positive and a sample of 200 among RDT negative but symptomatic participants were invited to send in nose throat swabs (NTS). SARS-CoV-2 Ct-values are determined using RT-PCR on NTS samples for RDT positive and RDT (false) negative participants and compared. Sequencing is performed on all eligible samples for phylogenetic analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein and the whole genome sequence. NTS samples of participants with discordant RT-PCR and RDT results are also analyzed using RDTs by professionals in the laboratory.

Results Between October 2022 and October 2023, our study had 16,893 participants and we collected 1,757 self-test-positive/NTS PCR positive samples and 359 self-test-negative/NTS PCR positive samples (RDT-/PCR+). These participants were asked to take a SARS-CoV-2 RDT upon symptoms. Within SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive participants, we did not find characteristics that differ in SARS-CoV-2 RDT negative versus positive participants. There were no associations with specific changes in the N protein nor did our phylogenetic analysis show clustering of RDT negative samples.

Conclusion Evaluating brand-specific RDT performance in Dutch population and false-negative RDT analyses, led to no evidence for SARS-CoV-2 evolution affecting RDT sensitivity. The participatory surveillance program Infectieradar is a powerful tool for our national surveillance on acute respiratory illnesses, as well as for research purposes. Since this framework offered both self-testing and the gold standard of PCR testing results.

[lakeeffectbitch]

[Image ID: Two screenshots from linked journal article.

First image shows title and author information. Text reads: "The Journal of Pathology / Early View. Original article. Open access. Persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients seemingly recovered from COVID-19. Rossana Bussani, Lorena Zentilin, Ricardo Correa, Andrea Colliva, Furio Silvestri, Serena Zacchigna, Chiara Collesi, Mauro Giacca. First published: 18 January 2023. https://doi.org/10.1002/path.6035. No conflicts of interest were declared."

Second image shows screenshot of the abstract. Text has been highlighted until middle of last sentence. Text reads: "SARS-CoV-2 infection is clinically heterogeneous, ranging from asymptomatic to deadly. A few patients with COVID-19 appear to recover from acute viral infection but nevertheless progress in their disease and eventually die, despite persistent negativity at molecular tests for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Here, we performed post-mortem analyses in 27 consecutive patients who had apparently recovered from COVID-19 but had progressively worsened in their clinical conditions despite repeated viral negativity in nasopharyngeal swabs or bronchioalveolar lavage for 11–300 consecutive days (average: 105.5 days). Three of these patients remained PCR-negative for over 9 months. Post-mortem analysis revealed evidence of diffuse or focal interstitial pneumonia in 23/27 (81%) patients, accompanied by extensive fibrotic substitution in 13 cases (47%). Despite apparent virological remission, lung pathology was similar to that observed in acute COVID-19 individuals, including micro- and macro-vascular thrombosis (67% of cases), vasculitis (24%), squamous metaplasia of the respiratory epithelium (30%), frequent cytological abnormalities and syncytia (67%), and the presence of dysmorphic features in the bronchial cartilage (44%). Consistent with molecular test negativity, SARS-CoV-2 antigens were not detected in the respiratory epithelium. In contrast, antibodies against both spike and nucleocapsid revealed the frequent (70%) infection of bronchial cartilage chondrocytes and para-bronchial gland epithelial cells. In a few patients (19%), we also detected positivity in vascular pericytes and endothelial cells. Quantitative RT-PCR amplification in tissue lysates confirmed the presence of viral RNA. Together, these findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 infection can persist significantly longer than suggested by standard PCR-negative tests, with specific infection of specific cell types in the lung. Whether these persistently infected cells also play a pathogenic role in long COVID remains to be addressed. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland." End ID]

Y'all, please be careful out there and wear a mask. Social distance. Isolate when sick. New study on covid came out today and it is bad news. The pandemic is far from over.

Read the full study here. Here is the abstract screenshot below.

TLDR +Medlang ➡ English = people showing up negative on PCR tests for up to nine months died and they found covid in their damaged tissue, aka people who were tested to be covid negative, were sent home and died while covid wrecked their organs.

[gyaanjyotieducation]

UniQ PathLab: Your Trusted Partner for COVID-19 Testing in Noida

Introduction: In the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, testing remains a crucial tool for early detection and containment. Residents of Noida can avail themselves of reliable and efficient testing services at UniQ PathLab. This blog aims to guide you through the process of getting a COVID-19 test in Noida with UniQ PathLab, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

Understanding the Importance of COVID-19 Testing: COVID-19 testing is vital for identifying and isolating infected individuals to prevent the spread of the virus. Whether you're experiencing symptoms or need a test for travel or workplace requirements, UniQ PathLab offers various testing options to meet your needs.

About Covid Test :

A COVID-19 test is a diagnostic procedure designed to detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These tests play a crucial role in identifying and isolating individuals who are infected with the virus, helping to control the spread of the disease. There are several types of COVID-19 tests, each serving different purposes:

RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction):

This is the most common and accurate type of COVID-19 test. It detects the genetic material of the virus in a sample collected from the respiratory system (usually through a nasal or throat swab). RT-PCR tests are highly sensitive and can identify the virus even in individuals with low viral loads.

Rapid Antigen Test:

This test identifies specific proteins on the surface of the virus. It provides quicker results compared to RT-PCR, usually within 15-30 minutes. Rapid antigen tests are suitable for quick screening, especially in situations where immediate results are needed.

Antibody Test (Serology Test):

This test detects antibodies produced by the immune system in response to a past infection. It is not used for diagnosing active infections but can indicate whether someone has been previously exposed to the virus. Antibody tests are often used to assess the prevalence of COVID-19 in a population.

The choice of test depends on various factors, including the individual's symptoms, exposure history, and the purpose of testing. RT-PCR remains the gold standard for diagnosing active COVID-19 infections due to its high sensitivity and accuracy.

It's important to note that a negative test result does not guarantee that an individual is not infected, especially if they have been recently exposed. Testing is just one part of a comprehensive strategy that includes other preventive measures such as vaccination, wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining physical distancing. Individuals should follow public health guidelines and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice on testing and COVID-19 prevention.

Types of COVID-19 Tests Available:

UniQ PathLab provides different types of COVID-19 tests, including RT-PCR, Rapid Antigen, and Antibody tests. Each test serves a specific purpose, and the choice depends on factors such as symptoms, exposure history, and the urgency of results.

Booking Your Test with UniQ PathLab:

UniQ PathLab has simplified the testing process to make it convenient for residents. You can book your COVID-19 test online through their user-friendly website or contact their customer service for assistance. Walk-in appointments may also be available at their testing centers in Noida.

Testing Centers in Noida: UniQ PathLab operates multiple testing centers across Noida, ensuring accessibility for residents. These centers are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and follow strict hygiene protocols to maintain a safe testing environment.

Ensuring Safety during Testing: UniQ PathLab prioritizes the safety of individuals during the testing process. Their staff is trained to follow stringent safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sanitization of equipment, and maintaining social distancing norms.

Receiving Your Test Results: UniQ PathLab understands the importance of timely results. Depending on the type of test, you can expect to receive your results within a specified timeframe. The lab provides digital reports, making it easy for you to access and share your results when needed.

Post-Test Guidance: If your test results indicate a positive diagnosis, UniQ PathLab offers guidance on isolation protocols and steps to take for recovery. Additionally, they may provide information on contacting healthcare professionals for further assistance.

Conclusion: UniQ PathLab in Noida stands as a reliable partner in the community's fight against COVID-19. By following the outlined steps for testing with UniQ PathLab, residents can contribute to breaking the chain of transmission and safeguarding their health and the well-being of others. Stay informed, stay safe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How can I book a COVID-19 test with UniQ PathLab in Noida?

You can easily book a COVID-19 test with UniQ PathLab in Noida by visiting their official website and following the online booking process. Alternatively, you can contact their customer service for assistance or inquire about walk-in appointments at their testing centers.

2. What types of COVID-19 tests does UniQ PathLab offer in Noida?

UniQ PathLab offers a range of COVID-19 tests, including RT-PCR, Rapid Antigen, and Antibody tests. The choice of test depends on factors such as symptoms, exposure history, and the urgency of results.

3.How long does it take to receive COVID-19 test results from UniQ PathLab?

The turnaround time for COVID-19 test results with UniQ PathLab varies depending on the type of test. Generally, RT-PCR results may take a day or two, while Rapid Antigen test results are often available within 15-30 minutes. UniQ PathLab is committed to providing timely results to ensure your peace of mind.

[rnomics]

Biomedicines, Vol. 11, Pages 3338: BRAFV600E, BANCR, miR-203a-3p and miR-204-3p in Risk Stratification of PTC Patients

In order to enhance the risk stratification of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients, we assessed the presence of the most common mutation in PTC (BRAFV600E) with the expression profiles of long non-coding #RNA activated by BRAFV600E (BANCR) and micro#RNAs, which share complementarity with BANCR (miR-203a-3p and miR-204-3p), and thereafter correlated it with several clinicopathological features of PTC. BRAFV600E was detected by mutant allele-specific PCR amplification. BANCR and miRs levels were determined by quantitative RT-PCR. Bioinformatic analysis was applied to determine the miRs’ targets. The expression profile of miR-203a-3p/204-3p in PTC was not affected by BRAFV600E. In the BRAFV600E-positive PTC, high expression of miR-203a-3p correlated with extrathyroidal invasion (Ei), but the patients with both high miR-203a-3p and upregulated BANCR were not at risk of Ei. In the BRAFV600E-negative PTC, low expression of miR-204-3p correlated with Ei, intraglandular dissemination and pT status (p < 0.05), and the mutual presence of low miR-204-3p and upregulated BANCR increased the occurrence of Ei. Bioinformatic analysis predicted complementary binding between miR-203a-3p/204-3p and BANCR. The co-occurrence of tested factors might influence the spreading of PTC. These findings partially describe the complicated network of interactions that may occur during the development of PTC aggressiveness, potentially providing a new approach for high-risk PTC patient selection. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/11/12/3338?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[gene-synthesis-company]

Explore the Benefits of High-Performing PCR Kits

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) primer synthesis is an important process in molecular biology that helps scientists amplify specific DNA sequences with precision and efficiency. These short, single-stranded DNA molecules are called primers. It serves as the starting point for DNA replication during PCR.

Are you looking for PCR-related reagents for your research needs? Several well-known life science research support companies provide top-notch PCR-related reagents and kits that are best suited for your research application. 

In this article, you will learn about the various advantages of using high-quality PCR kits for your research purposes.

Faster and Accurate Results

One of the major benefits of RT-PCR kits is that they are designed to deliver the most accurate and precise results in your research work. This level of accuracy can help researchers to get quick accurate results and eliminates the chances of error for applications like gene expression studies. 

Extensive Use in Research Applications

Another great advantage of high-quality RT-PCR kits is their versatility. They are designed to make them suitable for a wide range of research applications. Common applications of RT-PCR include the detection of expressed genes, microbial identification, examination of transcript variants and many more. 

Specificity

Renowned manufacturers of RT-PCR kits manufacture and test their rigorously to ensure they amplify only the target RNA sequences of interest. This helps to reduce the risk of false-positive or false-negative results especially when working with complex samples for your research application. 

Conclusion

If you want to get the above-mentioned benefits, contact a trusted research support company that specializes in manufacturing high-performing RT-PCR kits and reagents. You can also get services like gene synthesis, custom protein production, DNA sequencing and much more at an affordable price.

[pathologylab]

Rapi-Q HT Rapid POC RT-PCR Testing Solution is the first portable POC rapid PCR solution in India, processing 1-32 samples for several parameters at once. This is a panel that can be cited as excellent for polyclinics, community health centers, blood banks, physician offices, pharmacies, hospitals, and airports kits provide a comprehensive solution for infectious and non-infectious diseases on a one platform. There is no need for a skilled operator or clinician-automated reporting with Ct values and the ability to analyze Positive/Negative Results ideal for TB, HPV, and 3Hdtect (HIV, HCV, and HBV) screening programmers in India and other international locations.

[smartcatches]

How can I talk real representative on Qatar?

Qatar Airways is known for its intelligent customer care team, which handles your query 24/7. If you want to speak to someone in Qatar, there are several ways. Besides, you can call the Qatar hotline directly to access quick support. How do I speak to someone at Qatar Airways? The article below will provide complete information; stay tuned till the end.

Guidelines to know how do I talk to a live person at Qatar Airways

Here is the list of important contact options that Qatar Airways provides. You can select any of these based on your choice and requirements.

Contact via phone:

Dial the Qatar Airways hotline number available on the website

Select a language you can understand and follow IVR instructions

Choose the query type you have in the first menu and press the desired number

Soon, you will be connected to the departments based on the selection

In a few minutes, a live agent in Qatar will join the call, speak to them, and get a solution to the query

Contact via live chat:

As a traveler is being a first time passenger and didn't aware of new travel restrictions when travel to Qatar and other related regions and wanted to know how do I talk to a live person at Qatar Airways? to discuss about lost baggage, flight ticket confirmation and Negative RT-PCR test report and booster dose vaccination So such queries can be resolved by following live chat way.

To contact via live chat, go to the Qatar official 'Contact Us page

At the bottom right side, you can open the chat icon, flashing up

Type your question in the space given, and you will see many links

Select the one that is correct for your questions, follow the commands

If ‘still need help, choose an option to connect with a live agent

Follow the commands to start a live chat session with the Qatar agent

Contact via email:

Go to the Qatar website and locate the 'Email' link on the support page

The system will ask you to choose one option; your email is about

Follow the instructions, and an email form will appear on your screen

Fill out the query details in the form and enclose the relevant documents, if any

After the details are filled up, and your email is ready, submit the form

The Qatar team will soon review your email and get back to you with the best reply

Social Media:

You can contact Qatar via Facebook, Twitter, etc., and share a direct message with the airline anytime.

Using the social media links on the Qatar website, you can follow the airline first.

Via  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/qatarairways

Via Twitter   : https://twitter.com/qatarairways

Via Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/qatarairways/

Via Linked In : https://www.linkedin.com/company/qatar-airways

Then, you get an option to post your comments on the timeline, else, using the message button, share the message directly.

In a while, the Qatar agent will check your message and share a reply soon.

Contact Form:

Qatar also allows you to share your request via contact form on the website.

Using the contact form, you can request Qatar to contact you back and share various ueries.

Get on the Qatar website and locate the contact form on the support page

Open the form and choose a topic from the list given

When the contact form opens up, fill out the details and submit the form

The Qatar team will review everything and get back to you soon

Many contact channels are available to speak to someone in Qatar, and connecting via Qatar Airways phone number is the most convenient option. You can call the airline anytime when immediate support is needed. Hopefully, you get an answer to all your questions; log into your Qatar account or visit the official website to explore further details.