scholarly journals The Strategic Alliance between Clinical and Molecular Science in the War against SARS-CoV-2, with the Rapid-Diagnostics Test as an Indispensable Weapon for Front Line Doctors

2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (12) ◽  
pp. 4446
Author(s):  
Antonio Vittorino Gaddi ◽  
Fabio Capello ◽  
Leonardo Aluigi ◽  
Pier Luigi Antignani ◽  
Annapaola Callegaro ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Speed ◽  
Strategic Alliance ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Diagnostic Purpose ◽  
Rapid Diagnostics ◽  
Immunochromatographic Strip ◽  
Actual Problem ◽  
Point Of Care Test

Our work concerns the actual problem of spread of SARS- CoV-2 outbreak which requires fast and correct as possible answer. In current scenario, the need of rapid answer put away the imperative of proper methodology. We focus on the serogical immunoassay for diagnosis of Covid-19 as an important weapon not only for diagnostic purpose, but also for epidemiologic one. The right equilibrium between high speed, low cost and accuracy is obtained with easy-to-use decentralized point-of-care test as the colloidal gold-based immunochromatographic strip assay which detects IgM and IgG antibodies directed against SARS-CoV-2. As our aim is to evaluate the efficacy of Covid-19 rapid tests and of serological assays in real-life settings, we designed a research protocol aimed to establish how to use correctly these diagnostics, taking into account the different possible clinical and epidemiological scenarios.

scholarly journals Rapid Antibody Selection Using Surface Plasmon Resonance for High-Speed and Sensitive Hazelnut Lateral Flow Prototypes

Biosensors ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 130 ◽  
Author(s):  
Georgina Ross ◽  
Maria Bremer ◽  
Jan Wichers ◽  
Aart van Amerongen ◽  
Michel Nielen
Keyword(s):  
Surface Plasmon Resonance ◽  
Surface Plasmon ◽  
Plasmon Resonance ◽  
High Speed ◽  
Selection Process ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Cross Reactivity ◽  
Lateral Flow ◽  
Label Free

Lateral Flow Immunoassays (LFIAs) allow for rapid, low-cost, screening of many biomolecules such as food allergens. Despite being classified as rapid tests, many LFIAs take 10–20 min to complete. For a really high-speed LFIA, it is necessary to assess antibody association kinetics. By using a label-free optical technique such as Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), it is possible to screen crude monoclonal antibody (mAb) preparations for their association rates against a target. Herein, we describe an SPR-based method for screening and selecting crude anti-hazelnut antibodies based on their relative association rates, cross reactivity and sandwich pairing capabilities, for subsequent application in a rapid ligand binding assay. Thanks to the SPR selection process, only the fast mAb (F-50-6B12) and the slow (S-50-5H9) mAb needed purification for labelling with carbon nanoparticles to exploit high-speed LFIA prototypes. The kinetics observed in SPR were reflected in LFIA, with the test line appearing within 30 s, almost two times faster when F-50-6B12 was used, compared with S-50-5H9. Additionally, the LFIAs have demonstrated their future applicability to real life samples by detecting hazelnut in the sub-ppm range in a cookie matrix. Finally, these LFIAs not only provide a qualitative result when read visually, but also generate semi-quantitative data when exploiting freely downloadable smartphone apps.

scholarly journals A haemagglutination test for rapid detection of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alain Townsend ◽  
Pramila Rijal ◽  
Julie Xiao ◽  
Tiong Kit Tan ◽  
Kuan-Ying A Huang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Performance ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Glycophorin A ◽  
Red Cell ◽  
Special Equipment ◽  
Cell Agglutination ◽  
Haemagglutination Test ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Laboratory Facilities

ABSTRACTSerological detection of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 is essential for establishing rates of seroconversion in populations, detection of seroconversion after vaccination, and for seeking evidence for a level of antibody that may be protective against COVID-19 disease. Several high-performance commercial tests have been described, but these require centralised laboratory facilities that are comparatively expensive, and therefore not available universally. Red cell agglutination tests have a long history in blood typing, and general serology through linkage of reporter molecules to the red cell surface. They do not require special equipment, are read by eye, have short development times, low cost and can be applied as a Point of Care Test (POCT). We describe a red cell agglutination test for the detection of antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain (RBD). We show that the Haemagglutination Test (“HAT”) has a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 99% for detection of antibodies after a PCR diagnosed infection. The HAT can be titrated, detects rising titres in the first five days of hospital admission, correlates well with a commercial test that detects antibodies to the RBD, and can be applied as a point of care test. The developing reagent is composed of a previously described nanobody to a conserved glycophorin A epitope on red cells, linked to the RBD from SARS-CoV-2. It can be lyophilised for ease of shipping. We have scaled up production of this reagent to one gram, which is sufficient for ten million tests, at a cost of ∼0.27 UK pence per test well. Aliquots of this reagent are ready to be supplied to qualified groups anywhere in the world that need to detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, but do not have the facilities for high throughput commercial tests.

scholarly journals AnemoCheck-LRS: an optimized, color-based point-of-care test to identify severe anemia in limited-resource settings

BMC Medicine ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Marina S. Perez-Plazola ◽  
Erika A. Tyburski ◽  
Luke R. Smart ◽  
Thad A. Howard ◽  
Amanda Pfeiffer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Screening Tool ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Limited Resource ◽  
Absolute Difference ◽  
Severe Anemia ◽  
Detection Range ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Colour Scale ◽  
Life Saving

Abstract Background Severe anemia is common and frequently fatal for hospitalized patients in limited-resource settings. Lack of access to low-cost, accurate, and rapid diagnosis of anemia impedes the delivery of life-saving care and appropriate use of the limited blood supply. The WHO Haemoglobin Colour Scale (HCS) is a simple low-cost test but frequently inaccurate. AnemoCheck-LRS (limited-resource settings) is a rapid, inexpensive, color-based point-of-care (POC) test optimized to diagnose severe anemia. Methods Deidentified whole blood samples were diluted with plasma to create variable hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations, with most in the severe (≤ 7 g/dL) or profound (≤ 5 g/dL) anemia range. Each sample was tested with AnemoCheck-LRS and WHO HCS independently by three readers and compared to Hb measured by an electronic POC test (HemoCue 201+) and commercial hematology analyzer. Results For 570 evaluations within the limits of detection of AnemoCheck-LRS (Hb ≤ 8 g/dL), the average difference between AnemoCheck-LRS and measured Hb was 0.5 ± 0.4 g/dL. In contrast, the WHO HCS overestimated Hb with an absolute difference of 4.9 ± 1.3 g/dL for samples within its detection range (Hb 4–14 g/dL, n = 405). AnemoCheck-LRS was much more sensitive (92%) for the diagnosis of profound anemia than WHO HCS (22%). Conclusions AnemoCheck-LRS is a rapid, inexpensive, and accurate POC test for anemia. AnemoCheck-LRS is more accurate than WHO HCS for detection of low Hb levels, severe anemia that may require blood transfusion. AnemoCheck-LRS should be tested prospectively in limited-resource settings where severe anemia is common, to determine its utility as a screening tool to identify patients who may require transfusion.

scholarly journals Development of synthetic simulators for endoscope-assisted repair of metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis

2018 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 128-136 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kyle W. Eastwood ◽  
Vivek P. Bodani ◽  
Faizal A. Haji ◽  
Thomas Looi ◽  
Hani E. Naguib ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Speed ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Subcutaneous Fat ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Minimal Amount ◽  
Sagittal Craniosynostosis ◽  
Actual Patient ◽  
Surface Anatomy ◽  
Teaching Content ◽  
3D Printed

OBJECTIVEEndoscope-assisted repair of craniosynostosis is a safe and efficacious alternative to open techniques. However, this procedure is challenging to learn, and there is significant variation in both its execution and outcomes. Surgical simulators may allow trainees to learn and practice this procedure prior to operating on an actual patient. The purpose of this study was to develop a realistic, relatively inexpensive simulator for endoscope-assisted repair of metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis and to evaluate the models’ fidelity and teaching content.METHODSTwo separate, 3D-printed, plastic powder–based replica skulls exhibiting metopic (age 1 month) and sagittal (age 2 months) craniosynostosis were developed. These models were made into consumable skull “cartridges” that insert into a reusable base resembling an infant’s head. Each cartridge consists of a multilayer scalp (skin, subcutaneous fat, galea, and periosteum); cranial bones with accurate landmarks; and the dura mater. Data related to model construction, use, and cost were collected. Eleven novice surgeons (residents), 9 experienced surgeons (fellows), and 5 expert surgeons (attendings) performed a simulated metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis repair using a neuroendoscope, high-speed drill, rongeurs, lighted retractors, and suction/irrigation. All participants completed a 13-item questionnaire (using 5-point Likert scales) to rate the realism and utility of the models for teaching endoscope-assisted strip suturectomy.RESULTSThe simulators are compact, robust, and relatively inexpensive. They can be rapidly reset for repeated use and contain a minimal amount of consumable material while providing a realistic simulation experience. More than 80% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the models’ anatomical features, including surface anatomy, subgaleal and subperiosteal tissue planes, anterior fontanelle, and epidural spaces, were realistic and contained appropriate detail. More than 90% of participants indicated that handling the endoscope and the instruments was realistic, and also that the steps required to perform the procedure were representative of the steps required in real life.CONCLUSIONSBoth the metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis simulators were developed using low-cost methods and were successfully designed to be reusable. The simulators were found to realistically represent the surgical procedure and can be used to develop the technical skills required for performing an endoscope-assisted craniosynostosis repair.

scholarly journals Host-Modulation Therapy and Chair-Side Diagnostics in the Treatment of Peri-Implantitis

Biosensors ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (5) ◽  
pp. 44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Timo Sorsa ◽  
Joseph Bacigalupo ◽  
Mauno Könönen ◽  
Pirjo Pärnänen ◽  
Ismo T. Räisänen
Keyword(s):  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Diagnostic Tools ◽  
Low Grade ◽  
Active Matrix ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Prevention And Treatment ◽  
Potential Benefits ◽  
Low Grade Inflammation

Previous studies report periodontitis and peri-implantitis being able to induce systemic low-grade inflammation, which is known to be associated with increased risk for some systemic medical disease such as cardiovascular disease. In this regard, recent studies have shown that host modulation therapy (HMT) together with traditional mechanical and surgical treatment not only cease the progression of periodontitis but also reduce the systemic collagenolytic biomarkers in both oral fluids and circulation. This suggests that the corresponding adjunctive HMT-medication could be effective in the prevention and treatment of dental peri-implantitis, as well. Furthermore, low-cost, safe, and practical oral fluid active matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) lateral-flow immunotests have been proposed as point-of-care/chair-side diagnostic tools to detect peri-implantitis and periodontitis, and to monitor their effective resolutions, while using various therapeutic strategies, including host modulation. This study reports the potential benefits of HMT-medication in the prevention and treatment of dental peri-implantitis among five patients (four of five were current/ex-smokers). In addition, the aMMP-8 point-of-care test diagnosed 20 peri-implantitis and 20 healthy controls correctly. In conclusion, this study and previous studies support the potential effectiveness of HMT-medication(s) and point-of-care/chair-side technologies in the treatment and diagnostics/monitoring of peri-implantitis. However, more studies are needed to further confirm this.

scholarly journals The Use of Antigenic SARS-CoV-2 Point-of-Care Test: The Italian Pediatric Real-Life Experience

2021 ◽  
pp. 000992282110539
Author(s):  
Federica Ferrari ◽  
Fortunata Civitelli ◽  
Francesca Ardenti Morini ◽  
Federico Angelo Carmelo Buonaiuto ◽  
Gianluca Frega ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Life Experience ◽  
Close Contact ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Pediatric Population ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Gastrointestinal Symptoms ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Large Numbers ◽  
History Of ◽  
Acute Rhinitis

In Italy, during the second epidemic wave of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), rapid antigenic (Ag) test at point-of-care (POCT) station were employed to quickly evaluate large numbers of swabs. We collected data of all children who underwent the Ag test in our hospital. All positive patients were recalled to perform reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. A total of 2133 tests were collected over 1 month. Clinical data of 1941 children (median age = 3.7 years) were analyzed: 1343 (69.2%) patients complained of symptoms, 594 (30.6%) had a history of close contact with SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals. Among symptoms reported, acute rhinitis was the most frequent (67.9%), followed by cough (42.6%) and fever (31.5%). Among all tests, 95.8% resulted negative, 4.2% positive: 37/89 were confirmed. In confirmed cases, fever (56.2% vs 32.2%; P = .041) and gastrointestinal symptoms (18.8% vs 6.25%; P = .041) were significantly more frequent compared with negative children. The use of POCT for Ag test seems appropriate for SARS-CoV-2 screening in the pediatric population. In children, fever and gastrointestinal symptoms may constitute red flags of SARS-CoV-2.

Modal Parameter Extraction of a Turboset From High Speed Balance Data

2008 ◽  
Vol 130 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anoop K. Dhingra ◽  
Juan I. Hidalgo
Keyword(s):  
Present Method ◽  
High Speed ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Structural Models ◽  
Parameter Extraction ◽  
Model Complexity ◽  
Modal Parameter ◽  
Industrial Setting ◽  
Flexible Foundations

Turbosets used in power generation industry are frequently placed on flexible foundations, which significantly influence the overall dynamics. Establishment of structural models that capture the rotor and foundation effects reliably using finite element modeling or modal analysis is difficult because of model complexity and/or costs involved. This paper presents a method to extract modal parameter information of a turboset using frequency response function data recorded during high speed balancing. The main advantage of the present method over the others is the low cost and small effort involved, so that it is of practical use in an industrial setting. A real life example dealing with parameter extraction for a large generator rotor is presented to demonstrate its implementation.

scholarly journals Design and Development of Point of Care Test and Optical Reader for Early Screening of Kidney Related Disorder

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pankaj Shihvare ◽  
Satyam Mohla ◽  
Tejal Dube ◽  
Alok Verma ◽  
Rohit Srivastava
Keyword(s):  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Early Screening ◽  
Related Disorder ◽  
Detection Range ◽  
Spot Urine ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Optical Reader ◽  
Colorimetric Assays ◽  
Urine Testing

AbstractLow-cost, paper-based colorimetric assays for early screening of albumin, creatinine and their ratio have been developed. The developed methods are noninvasive and require only 10µl of the urine sample. A reflectance-based optical reader has also been developed for the quantification of the albumin and creatinine. The developed method is based on spot urine testing which is advantageous when compared to the conventional 24-hour urine collection. The detection range of albumin and creatinine assays is 10-150 mg/dl and 25–400 mg/dl, respectively. The developed assays and optical reader were tested with the chronic kidney diseased patient’s samples at KEM Hospital, Mumbai.

scholarly journals Harmony COVID-19: a ready-to-use kit, low-cost detector, and smartphone app for point-of-care SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nuttada Panpradist ◽  
Enos Kline ◽  
Robert G Atkinson ◽  
Michael Roller ◽  
Qin Wang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
High Viral Load ◽  
Respiratory Pathogens ◽  
Rna Detection ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Viral Transport ◽  
Viral Particles ◽  
First Time

RNA amplification tests sensitively detect SARS-CoV-2 infection, but their complexity and cost are prohibitive for expanding COVID-19 testing. We developed Harmony COVID-19, a point-of-care test using inexpensive consumables, ready-to-use reagents, and a simple device accommodating up to 4 samples simultaneously. Our ready-to-use, 4-plex reverse-transcription, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) can detect down to 0.38 SARS-CoV-2 RNA copies/μL and can report in 17 min for high viral load samples (5,000 copies/μL). Harmony detected 97% or 83% of contrived samples with ≥0.5 viral particles/μL in nasal matrix or saliva, respectively. Evaluation in clinical nasal specimens in viral transport media (VTM, n=101) showed 100% detection of RNA extracted from specimens with ≥0.5 SARS-CoV-2 RNA copies/μL, with 100% specificity in specimens positive for other respiratory pathogens. VTM is non-ideal for Harmony system, yet extraction-free analysis of VTM specimens (n=29) had 95% success in specimens with ≥1 RNA copies/μL. Usability testing performed first-time by healthcare workers showed 95% accuracy

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