A systematic review of vertical transmission and antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among infants born to mothers with COVID-19

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
George M. Bwire* ◽  
Belinda J. Njiro ◽  
Dorkasi L. Mwakawanga ◽  
Deodatus Sabas ◽  
Bruno F. Sunguya

Abstract Amidst the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, evidence on vertical transmission and natural passive immunity among the newborns exposed to COVID-19 is scanty and varies. This pose a challenge on preventive interventions for the newborns. We conducted a systematic review to first, determine the likelihood of vertical transmission among COVID-19 exposed infants and second, determine whether antibodies against Severe Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)/ COVID-19 virus exist among COVID-19 vertically exposed but negative infants. This review registered in PROSPERO searched evidence from PubMed/ MEDLINE and Google Scholar, among others. About 517 studies were retrieved, where only 33 articles (5.8%) qualified for final analysis. A total of 205 infants born to SARS-CoV-2 positive mothers were pooled from 33 eligible studies. Overall, 6.3% (13/205; 95%CI: 3.0%-9.7%) of the infants tested positive for COVID-19 virus at birth. Of 33 eligible studies, 6 studies (18.8%) reported about IgG/IgM against SARS-CoV-2. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM were detected in 90% (10/11; 95%CI: 73.9%-107.9%) of infants who had no COVID-19 but vertically exposed. In conclusion, the current evidence revealed a low possibility of vertical transmission of COVID-19 while antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were detected in most of the infants who had no COVID-19. Further studies on perinatal outcomes and the magnitude of natural passive immunity in infants born to mothers with COVID-19 are warranted.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Becerra-Bolaños ◽  
V. Muiño-Palomar ◽  
S. Cabrera-Doreste ◽  
A. Rodríguez-Pérez

AbstractPerioperative management in patients suffering from systemic mastocytosis is challenging. Most recommendations regarding anesthetic management in these patients are based on clinical reports, and there are controversies about the use of rocuronium and sugammadex. We present a case report of a patient with systemic mastocytosis who was given sugammadex for rocuronium reversal. Tryptase levels were monitored during the first postoperative 24 h, without evidence of elevation. We also performed a systematic review to provide an overview of current evidence regarding the safety of using sugammadex in patients suffering from systemic mastocytosis. The search strategy included PubMed and Google Scholar. All studies published up to and including January 2021 concerning anesthetic management in systemic mastocytosis were included. Of the 122 articles located, 9 articles were included: 2 reviews and 7 case reports. Data from reviewed studies confirm that sugammadex can safely be administered in patients suffering from systemic mastocytosis.


2020 ◽  
Vol 3 ◽  
pp. 54-62
Author(s):  
Lakshmi Krishnan ◽  
Aarthy C. S. ◽  
Parangimalai Diwakar Madan Kumar

Objective: This systematic review was done with the aim of assessing the barriers faced in utilizing dental care services by general population in age group between 20 and 60 years in India as these findings would provide evidence for making appropriate decisions in our National Oral Health Policy which could further improve access to dental care services for people across India. This was a systematic review. Materials and Methods: For this review, PubMed, TRIP database, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were the electronic databases searched based on the PICO. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses guidelines were followed for the final inclusion of articles. Results: The search generated a total of 91 articles from four different electronic bases: PubMed, TRIP database, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. Based on the inclusion criteria, 14 articles made it to the final analysis. All 14 studies reported a lack of time and nonavailability of dentists as major barriers in accessing dental care services. Conclusion: The cross-sectional studies of this review were assessed for quality using a modified Newcastle- Ottawa Scale, proposed by Egger et al. in 2003. Even though the available literature forms a lower standard of evidence, further evaluation of barriers using a standardized questionnaire is recommended using better-designed studies to substantiate the unequal access to health-care facilities to Indian Population.


Author(s):  
Süreyya Sarvan ◽  
Emine Efe

Objective: Every year, millions of newborns around the world need the help of health professionals to take their first breath. Healthcare professionals need to have comprehensive knowledge and skills of specified in the neonatal resuscitation algorithm to perform life-saving interventions quickly and accurately. However, since neonatal resuscitation is a rather complicated task, deviations from this algorithm are common. In this article, it is aimed to review the current evidence of simulation used to improve neonatal resuscitation training. Methods: This research is the systematic review design and is a qualitative research based on document analysis of the articles. The universe of the study consisted of 116 articles from 2015-2020, accessed from databases such as Medline Complete, Academic Search Complete, Academic Search Ultimate, CINAHL Complete, Directory of Open Access Journals, Google Scholar and Google Scholar. Nine articles that satisfy the criteria for inclusion in this study were evaluated within the scope of the study. Results: Eight of the nine studies included in the study were reported to be in use high reality simulations. In all studies, educational content ranging from theoretical lessons based on neonatal resuscitation guidance and simulated resuscitation training to scenario-based practices were reported. In simulations to evaluate skill performances Megacode scenario was used in five studies, simulator software in one study, and a standard evaluation form in three studies. Conclusion: In the current studies, despite the improvement in knowledge and skill performance immediately after neonatal resuscitation training, the protection of knowledge and skills in the long term is controversial. For this reason, it may be recommended to conduct refresher trainings for the protection of newborn resuscitation knowledge and skills of health care professionals.


2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Naveen Dhawan ◽  
Naushira Pandya ◽  
Michael Khalili ◽  
Manuel Bautista ◽  
Anurag Duggal ◽  
...  

Background. Current risk stratification tools, primarily used for CAP, are suboptimal in predicting nursing home acquired pneumonia (NHAP) outcome and mortality. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate current evidence on the usefulness of proposed predictors of NHAP mortality.Methods. PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, and CINAHL databases were searched for articles published in English between January 1978 and January 2014. The literature search elicited a total of 666 references; 580 were excluded and 20 articles met the inclusion criteria for the final analysis.Results. More studies supported the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) as a superior predictor of NHAP severity. Fewer studies suggested CURB-65 and SOAR (especially for the need of ICU care) as useful predictors for NHAP mortality. There is weak evidence for biomarkers like C-reactive protein and copeptin as prognostic tools.Conclusion. The evidence supports the use of PSI as the best available indicator while CURB-65 may be an alternative prognostic indicator for NHAP mortality. Overall, due to the paucity of information, biomarkers may not be as effective in this role. Larger prospective studies are needed to establish the most effective predictor(s) or combination scheme to help clinicians in decision-making related to NHAP mortality.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
George M. Bwire ◽  
Belinda J. Njiro

AbstractBackgroundCurrently, there is no doubt on human-to-human transmission of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Now, the debates remain on whether, vertical transmission of Severe Respiratory Syndrome Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and antibodies against the virus do exist. We therefore, conducted a systematic review to determine the immunoglobulin G and M (IgG/IgM) levels among infants born to mothers with COVID-19.MethodsThe systematic search was done using PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar database. The research included studies on IgG/ IgM against SARS-CoV-2 among infants born to mother with COVID-19 published in English from December 1, 2019 onwards. Data were extracted by two independent authors in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-P) guidelines. We synthesized a narrative from eligible studies and performed two tailed non-parametric Mann-Whitney test to determine and compare the median IgG/IgM levels.ResultsIn total, 486 abstracts were screened and 63 full-text articles were assessed. Of 63 articles, 6 met the inclusion criteria for qualitative analysis. Two articles were included in quantitative analysis of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG/ IgM levels. The median antibody levels was 75.49AU/mL (range: 7.25AU/mL-140.32AU/mL) and for 3.79AU/mL (range: 0.16AU/mL-45.83AU/mL) (P = 0.0041) for anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM, respectively.ConclusionThere were high levels of IgG but low IgM against SARS-CoV-2 (using <10 AU/mL as a reference range) among COVID-19 virus exposed but negative newborns. This review suggest a possible natural passive immunity (IgG/ IgM) against COVID-19 virus.ImpactA systematic review of infants born to mothers with COVID-19 was conducted to characterize the magnitude of antibodies generated against SARS-CoV-2 among infants who were vertically exposed to the virus. These findings were necessary to inform the ongoing vaccine development and research on the background natural passive immunity among COVID-19 exposed newborns. Furthermore, evidence are revealing the possibility of vertical transmission of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG/ IgM among the exposed newborns who tested negative for the virus.


2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
René Hage ◽  
Carolin Steinack ◽  
Christian Benden ◽  
Macé M. Schuurmans

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, is causing a pandemic of unknown precedent, with huge healthcare challenges and worldwide disruptions to economic and social life. Lung transplant recipients and other solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are immunosuppressed, and therefore are generally considered at an increased risk for severe infections. Given the current gap in knowledge and evidence regarding the best management of these patients, we conducted a systematic review of studies on SARS-CoV-2 infections and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in SOT recipients, to evaluate the association between immunosuppression in these patients, SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 outcomes. The focus was the severity of the disease, the need for mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and rate of death. The literature search was conducted repeatedly between 16 March and 8 April 2020. We searched original papers, observational studies, case reports, and meta-analyses published between 2019 and 2020 using two databases (PubMed, Google Scholar) with the search terms: [transplant OR immunosuppression] AND [COVID-19 OR SARS-CoV-2]. Further inclusion criteria were publications in English, French, German and Italian, and reference to humans. We also searched the reference lists of the studies encountered. From an initial search of PubMed and Google Scholar, 19 potential articles were retrieved, of which 14 were excluded after full-text screening (not being case reports or case series), leaving 5 studies for inclusion. No further studies were identified from the bibliographies of retrieved articles. Based on the limited research, no firm conclusions can be made concerning SOT recipients, but the current evidence suggests that immunosuppression is most likely associated with a better outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 because it prevents hyperinflammation (cytokine storm) in this particular population. There is a need for further research that would allow results to be adjusted for other factors potentially impacting COVID-19 severity and outcome.


2021 ◽  
Vol 163 (3) ◽  
pp. 843-852
Author(s):  
Gustav Burström ◽  
Oscar Persson ◽  
Erik Edström ◽  
Adrian Elmi-Terander

Abstract Background Conventional spinal navigation solutions have been criticized for having a negative impact on time in the operating room and workflow. AR navigation could potentially alleviate some of these concerns while retaining the benefits of navigated spine surgery. The objective of this study is to summarize the current evidence for using augmented reality (AR) navigation in spine surgery. Methods We performed a systematic review to explore the current evidence for using AR navigation in spine surgery. PubMed and Web of Science were searched from database inception to November 27, 2020, for data on the AR navigation solutions; the reported efficacy of the systems; and their impact on workflow, radiation, and cost-benefit relationships. Results In this systematic review, 28 studies were included in the final analysis. The main findings were superior workflow and non-inferior accuracy when comparing AR to free-hand (FH) or conventional surgical navigation techniques. A limited number of studies indicated decreased use of radiation. There were no studies reporting mortality, morbidity, or cost-benefit relationships. Conclusions AR provides a meaningful addition to FH surgery and traditional navigation methods for spine surgery. However, the current evidence base is limited and prospective studies on clinical outcomes and cost-benefit relationships are needed.


Author(s):  
Mohammed Saleh Daher Albalawi ◽  
Shoog Mohsen R. Alharbi ◽  
Reem Hammad M. Albalawi ◽  
Khaled Abdullah S. Alasmari ◽  
Nada Sulaiman E. Alatawi ◽  
...  

Levothyroxine is a synthetic T4 hormone that is biochemically and physiologically identical to the natural hormone, and it is used when the body is deficient in the natural hormone. This study was conducted to summarize the current evidence that compare evidence supporting morning dose to evening dose of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism‎. A simple systematic review was carried out, searching databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCO. The authors extracted the needed data. There is conflicting data regarding effectiveness of morning dose versus evening dose in management of levothyroxine. More studies reported effectiveness of bedtime dose more than breakfast dose in hypothyroidism management. Numerous studies reported effectiveness of bedtime dose more than breakfast dose in hypothyroidism management. The most resent evidences recommended that, if possible, L‐T4 be consistently taken either 60 minutes before breakfast or at bedtime (3 or more hours after the evening meal), for optimal, consistent absorption.


Hernia ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. P. Ramspott ◽  
T. Jäger ◽  
M. Lechner ◽  
P. Schredl ◽  
A. Gabersek ◽  
...  

Abstract Purpose Bochdalek hernia is a congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The incidence in adults is estimated around 0.17%. Right-sided hernias are much more seldom than left-sided ones because of faster closure of the right pleuroperitoneal canal and the protective effect of the liver. Due to its rarity, there have been no large prospective or retrospective studies following great need for evidence-based diagnostics and treatment strategies. In this systematic review, we evaluated the current evidence of diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up of adult right-sided Bochdalek hernias. Methods According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines a systematic literature review was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane library from 2004 to January 2021. The literature search included all studies with non-traumatic right-sided Bochdalek hernias. Literature on left- or both-sided, pregnancy-associated, pediatric, and other types of hernias were explicitly excluded. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed. Results Database search identified 401 records. After eligibility screening 41 studies describing 44 cases of right-sided non-traumatic Bochdalek hernias in adulthood were included for final analysis. Based upon the systematic literature review, the current diagnostic, therapeutic, and follow-up management pathway for this rare surgical emergency is presented. Conclusion This systematic review underlined that most studies investigating management of adult non-traumatic right-sided Bochdalek hernias are of moderate to low methodological quality. Hernias tend to occur more frequently in middle-aged and older women presenting with abdominal pain and dyspnea. A rapid and accurate diagnosis following surgical repair and regular follow-up is mandatory. High-quality studies focusing on the management of this rare entity are urgently needed.


2021 ◽  
Vol 0 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Themistoklis Dagklis ◽  
Antonios Siargkas ◽  
Aikaterini Apostolopoulou ◽  
Ioannis Tsakiridis ◽  
Apostolos Mamopoulos ◽  
...  

Abstract Objectives A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to quantitatively synthesize the current evidence on the association of prenatally diagnosed isolated single umbilical artery (iSUA) in singleton pregnancies with small for gestational age (SGA) neonates and other perinatal outcomes. Methods A search of PubMed/Medline, Scopus and The Cochrane Library was conducted, from inception to February 2021, in order to identify studies comparing the risk of SGA and other perinatal adverse outcomes in prenatally diagnosed iSUA singleton pregnancies vs. those with a 3-vessel cord (3VC). The quality of eligible studies was assessed according to the improved Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). The heterogeneity of results across the studies was tested using the I2 test. Funnel plots and Egger’s test were used to assess the possibility of publication bias. Prospero RN: CRD42020182586. Results The electronic search identified 7,605 studies, of which 11 were selected, including three retrospective cohort and eight retrospective case control studies, overall reporting on 1,533 iSUA cases. The risk of delivering SGA neonates was increased in cases with iSUA (OR: 2.90; 95% CI: 2.02–4.18; p<0.00001; I2=71%). Similarly, iSUA was associated with an increased risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) (OR: 2.23; 95% CI: 1.41–3.54; p<0.000; I2=1%), intrauterine death (IUD) (OR: 2.62; 95% CI: 1.43–4.79; p=0.002; I2=0%), preterm birth (PTB) (OR: 2.48; 95% CI: 1.73–3.56; p<0.00001; I2=56%), cesarean section (CS) (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.11–2.41; p=0.01; I2=78%) and admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (OR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.52–3.44; p<0.000001; I2=73%). Conclusions In prenatally diagnosed iSUA there is a higher risk of SGA, PIH, IUD, PTB, CS and NICU admission. These findings support the value of prenatal diagnosis of iSUA, which may subsequently intensify surveillance for the detection of specific pregnancy complications.


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