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Is there a "missing device" for respiratory personal protection? Does it exist an easy-to-use device, allowing extensive use in everyday settings by the population, maximizing tolerability and low visual and physical invasiveness protecting from a wide range of threats including airborne pathogens, hence including the particle range of fine and ultrafine particles? Looking at the recent past, in the urgency of finding ready-to-use solutions for the respiratory protection of the population during the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, devices for occupational safety have been used, such as filtering face masks. These are devices intended for workers operating during work shifts in environments characterized by potential high risk, known a priori, often directly sensible; this makes wearers motivated to tolerate discomfort for a given period to face a localized risk, and safety managers determined to supervise compliance with usage specifications. Their use by general population has implied known shortcomings, such as weak compatibility with relational work and activities, low tolerability during prolonged use, low compliance with the proper use of the device, all of this lessening actual protection. The need for a new perspective has emerged, targeting effectiveness in whole daily life, rather than punctual efficacy. Nasal filters are promising candidates to protect individuals throughout the day during the most varied activities, but they lack a systematic definition as a device and as a product; it follows that the high complexity needed to reach an effective performance envelop is generally underestimated. By reviewing available literature, the present paper draws on the experience from the pandemic and infers systematic product specifications and characterization methods for a new, effective personal respiratory protection device; these specifications are compared with the stringent constraints associated with the endonasal applications and, based on air filtration state of the art, quantifies the need for technology disruption and outlining possible new development paths. • The SARS-COV-2 pandemic indicated that an adequately performing nasal filter has the potential to play a protective role in the population's daily life. • A nasal filter poses unique technological challenges due to its miniaturisation. • To trap allergens, pathogens and harmful particulate matter entering the nose, it is necessary to filter out particles classified as fine and ultrafine. • Fibrous mesh filters are inadequate to filter fine and ultrafine particles in a nasal filter as small as a nostril, due to their low filtration capacity and high breathing resistance. • The development of effective nasal filters in the field of fine and ultrafine particles requires the adoption of new technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has emphasized the importance of understanding and adapting to the indoor remediation of transmissible diseases to decrease the risk for future pandemic threats. While there were many precautions in place to hinder the spread of COVID-19, there has also been a substantial increase of new research on SARS-CoV-2 that can be utilized to further mitigate the transmission risk of this novel virus. This review paper aims to identify the building parameters of indoor spaces that could have considerable influence on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. The following building parameters have been identified and analyzed, emphasizing their link with the indoor transmission of SARS-CoV-2: temperature and relative humidity, temperature differences between rooms, ventilation rate and access to natural ventilation, occupant density, surface type and finish, airflow direction and speed, air stability, indoor air pollution, central air conditioning systems, capacity of air handling system and HVAC filter efficiency, edge sealing of air filters, room layout and interior design, and compartmentalization of interior space. This paper also explains the interactions of SARS-CoV-2 with indoor environments and its persistence. Furthermore, the modifications of the key building parameters have been discussed for controlling the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in indoor spaces. Understanding the information provided in this paper is crucial to develop effective health and safety measures that will aid in infection prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) disinfection technology is effective in inactivating microorganisms. However, its performance can vary against different microorganisms due to their diverse structural and genomic features. Thus, rapid predictions of UV (254 nm) inactivation kinetics are essential, particularly for highly infectious emerging pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2, during the extemporary COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, aiming at single-strand RNA (ssRNA) viruses, an improved genomic model was introduced to predict the UV inactivation kinetics of viral genomes using genome sequence data. First, the overall virus infectivity loss in an aqueous matrix was estimated as the sum of damage to both the entire genome and the protein capsid. Then, the "UV rate constant ratio of aerosol and liquid" was used to convert the UV rate constant for viruses in a liquid-based matrix to an airborne state. The prediction model underwent both quantitative and qualitative validation using experimental data from this study and the literature. Finally, with the goal of mitigating potential airborne transmission of ssRNA viruses in indoor environments, this paper summarizes existing in-duct UVGI system designs and evaluates their germicidal performance. The prediction model may serve as a preliminary tool to assess the effectiveness of a UVGI system for emerging or unculturable viruses or to estimate the required UV dose when designing such a system. [Display omitted] • Improved model predicts UV rate constants for ssRNA virus infectivity loss. • The model consists of predictions for UV-induced genome damage and protein damage. • The "UV rate constant ratio" is used to convert the UV rate constants between liquid and airborne viruses. • Comparative analysis of UV rate constant models and virus-specific recommendations are offered. • In-duct UVGI designs summarized; inactivation efficiencies for airborne ssRNA viruses predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, pollution caused by disinfection by-products (DBPs) has become a global concern. Initially, there were fewer contaminants, and the mechanism of their generation was unclear; however, the number of contaminants has increased exponentially as a result of rapid industrialization and numerous economic activities (e.q., during the outbreak of COVID-19 a surge in the use of chlorinated disinfectants was observed). DBP toxicity results in various adverse health effects and organ failure in humans. In addition, it profoundly affects other forms of life, including animals, plants, and microorganisms. This review comprehensively discusses the pre-treatment methods of traditional and emerging DBPs and the technologies applied for their detection. Additionally, this paper provides a detailed discussion of the principles, applicability, and characteristics of traditional large-scale instrumentation methods (such as gas/liquid/ion chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) for detecting DBPs based on their respective detection techniques. At the same time, the design, functionality, classification, and characteristics of rapid detection technologies (such as biosensors) are also detailed and analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than two and a half years have already passed since the first case of COVID-19 was officially reported (December 2019), as well as more than two years since the WHO declared the current pandemic (March 2020). During these months, the advances on the knowledge of the COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus responsible of the infection, have been very significant. However, there are still some weak points on that knowledge, being the origin of SARS-CoV-2 one of the most notorious. One year ago, I published a review focused on what we knew and what we need to know about the origin of that coronavirus, a key point for the prevention of potential future pandemics of a similar nature. The analysis of the available publications until July 2021 did not allow drawing definitive conclusions on the origin of SARS-CoV-2. Given the great importance of that issue, the present review was aimed at updating the scientific information on that origin. Unfortunately, there have not been significant advances on that topic, remaining basically the same two hypotheses on it. One of them is the zoonotic origin of SARS-CoV-2, while the second one is the possible leak of this coronavirus from a laboratory. Most recent papers do not include observational or experimental studies, being discussions and positions on these two main hypotheses. Based on the information here reviewed, there is not yet a definitive and well demonstrated conclusion on the origin of SARS-CoV-2. • The origin of SARS-CoV-2 is not established, but most papers point out to a zoonotic origin of this coronavirus. • An important number of available papers on the origin of SARC-CoV-2 are not experimental studies. • The hypothesis of an unnatural origin of SARS-CoV-2 cannot be yet scientifically discarded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this editorial piece, the Editors of the Virtual Special Issue (VSI) "The environment, epidemics, and human health" comment on the papers accepted for publication, which were selected after peer-reviewing among all those manuscripts submitted to the Special Issue. In view of the title of the VSI, it is clear that its aim goes beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, trying to explore relations among environmental aspects, any kind of epidemics, and human health. However, COVID-19 is still hitting as a global and current main issue, causing that manuscripts dealing with this disease and the SARS-CoV-2 virus are of high relevance in the whole set of research papers published. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this editorial piece, the Editors of the Virtual Special Issue (VSI) "The environment, epidemics, and human health" comment on the papers accepted for publication, which were selected after peer-reviewing among all those manuscripts submitted to the Special Issue. In view of the title of the VSI, it is clear that its aim goes beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, trying to explore relations among environmental aspects, any kind of epidemics, and human health. However, COVID-19 is still hitting as a global and current main issue, causing that manuscripts dealing with this disease and the SARS-CoV-2 virus are of high relevance in the whole set of research papers published. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the rise of the Covid-19 pandemic, several researchers stated the possibility of a positive relationship between Covid-19 spread and climatic parameters. An ecological study in 12 Iranian cities using the report of daily deaths from Covid-19 (March to August 2020) and validated data on air pollutants, considering average concentrations in each city in the last year used to analyze the association between chronic exposure to air pollutants and the death rate from Covid-19 in Iran. Poisson regression models were used, with generalized additive models and adjustment variables. A significant increase of 2.7% (IC(95%) 2.6–4.4) was found in the mortality rate due to Covid-19 due to an increase of 1 μg/m3 of NO 2. The results suggest an association between Covid-19 mortality and NO 2 exposure. As a risk approximation associated with air pollution, more precise analysis is done. The results also show a good consistency with studies from other regions; this paper's results can be useful for the public health policymakers and decision-making to control the Covid-19 spread. • A reliable Covid-19 data from Iran was used in this paper. • 12 cities were considered from all of the minor climate conditions of the country to minimize the climate bias. • Correlation of the air pollution and the other most effective diseases on the Covid-19 is also studied. • Nox was the most effective particle and had a significant impact on the Covid-19 mortality rate. • For a 1% increase in the NO 2 concentration, there will be a 2.7% increase in the Covid-19 mortality rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several waves of COVID-19 caused by different SARS-CoV-2 variants have been recorded worldwide. During this period, many publications were released describing the influence of various factors, such as environmental, social and economic factors, on the spread of COVID-19. This paper presents the results of a detailed spatiotemporal analysis of the course of COVID-19 cases and deaths in five waves in Poland in relation to green‒blue spaces. The results, based on 380 counties, reveal that the negative correlation between the indicator of green‒blue space per inhabitant and the average daily number of COVID-19 cases and deaths was clearly visible during all waves. These relationships were described by a power equation (coefficient of determination ranging from 0.83 to 0.88) with a high level of significance. The second important discovery was the fact that the rates of COVID-19 cases and deaths were significantly higher in urban counties (low values of the green–blue space indicator in m2/people) than in rural areas. The developed models can be used in decision-making by local government authorities to organize anti-COVID-19 prevention measures, including local lockdowns, especially in urban areas. • Five waves of COVID-19 in Poland during 800 days of the pandemic were compared. • Green–blue spaces were negatively associated with COVID-19 cases and deaths. • There were many more COVID-19 incidences in urban areas in Poland than in rural areas. • Green–blue spaces can be used in the prevention of COVID-19 disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Virtual Special Issue (VSI) "New research on reduction and/or elimination of hazardous substances in the design, manufacture and application of chemical products" was initially associated to the "International Conference on Green Chemistry and Sustainable Engineering, GreenChem-20" that was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Anyway, the international conference will take place in the near future. However, the VSI was maintained in this journal, received a high number of submissions, and selected manuscripts have been accepted after peer-reviewing. The published papers constitute a set of high-quality contributions, which, in the future, could be complemented with others related to additional conferences about similar topics. In this editorial piece, the Editors include brief comments on papers accepted for publication in the Special Issue, as well as additional aspects of interest related to the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Editors of the Virtual Special Issue (VSI) "New Research on Water, Waste and Energy Management, with Special Focus on Antibiotics and Priority Pollutants" (VSI WWEM-20) here present details corresponding to papers that have been accepted, as well as further comments on the matter. It should be noted that the VSI should be associated to a Conference that had been initially programmed to be held in Rome during the summer of 2020, Unfortunately, it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That conference was one of those within the series called "International Congress on Water, Waste and Energy Management". Although the Conference was postponed, the Call for Papers for the VSI was maintained by this journal. As a result, a set of very interesting papers were accepted after a careful peer-review process. We hope that it will be complemented with additional VSIs associated to future conferences corresponding to the series, increasing the knowledge on the topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic disease, like several countries, Romania experienced a multiwaves pattern over more than two years. The spreading pattern of SARS-CoV-2 pathogens in the Bucharest, capital of Romania is a multi-factorial process involving among other factors outdoor environmental variables and viral inactivation. Through descriptive statistics and cross-correlation analysis applied to daily time series of observational and geospatial data, this study aims to evaluate the synergy of COVID-19 incidence and lethality with air pollution and radon under different climate conditions, which may exacerbate the coronavirus' effect on human health. During the entire analyzed period 1 January 2020–21 December 2021, for each of the four COVID-19 waves were recorded different anomalous anticyclonic synoptic meteorological patterns in the mid-troposphere, and favorable stability conditions during fall-early winter seasons for COVID-19 disease fast-spreading, mostly during the second, and the fourth waves. As the temporal pattern of airborne SARS-CoV-2 and its mutagen variants is affected by seasonal variability of the main air pollutants and climate parameters, this paper found: 1) the daily outdoor exposures to air pollutants (particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10, nitrogen dioxide-NO 2 , sulfur dioxide-SO 2 , carbon monoxide-CO) and radon - 222Rn, are directly correlated with the daily COVID-19 incidence and mortality, and may contribute to the spread and the severity of the pandemic; 2) the daily ground ozone-O 3 levels, air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, and surface solar irradiance are anticorrelated with the daily new COVID-19 incidence and deaths, averageingful for spring-summer periods. Outdoor exposure to ambient air pollution associated with radon is a non-negligible driver of COVID-19 transmission in large metropolitan areas, and climate variables are risk factors in spreading the viral infection. The findings of this study provide useful information for public health authorities and decision-makers to develop future pandemic diseases strategies in high polluted metropolitan environments. [Display omitted] • Air pollutants and climate factors may trigger SARS-CoV-2 diffusion in Bucharest. • Synoptic anticyclonic air circulation patterns are related to COVID-19 multiwaves. • Exposure to outdoor and indoor radon can increase COVID-19 incidence and severity. • COVID-19 and climate driving factors have mutual seasonality patterns in Bucharest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic disease, like several countries, Romania experienced a multiwaves pattern over more than two years. The spreading pattern of SARS-CoV-2 pathogens in the Bucharest, capital of Romania is a multi-factorial process involving among other factors outdoor environmental variables and viral inactivation. Through descriptive statistics and cross-correlation analysis applied to daily time series of observational and geospatial data, this study aims to evaluate the synergy of COVID-19 incidence and lethality with air pollution and radon under different climate conditions, which may exacerbate the coronavirus' effect on human health. During the entire analyzed period 1 January 2020–21 December 2021, for each of the four COVID-19 waves were recorded different anomalous anticyclonic synoptic meteorological patterns in the mid-troposphere, and favorable stability conditions during fall-early winter seasons for COVID-19 disease fast-spreading, mostly during the second, and the fourth waves. As the temporal pattern of airborne SARS-CoV-2 and its mutagen variants is affected by seasonal variability of the main air pollutants and climate parameters, this paper found: 1) the daily outdoor exposures to air pollutants (particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10, nitrogen dioxide-NO 2 , sulfur dioxide-SO 2 , carbon monoxide-CO) and radon - 222Rn, are directly correlated with the daily COVID-19 incidence and mortality, and may contribute to the spread and the severity of the pandemic; 2) the daily ground ozone-O 3 levels, air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, and surface solar irradiance are anticorrelated with the daily new COVID-19 incidence and deaths, averageingful for spring-summer periods. Outdoor exposure to ambient air pollution associated with radon is a non-negligible driver of COVID-19 transmission in large metropolitan areas, and climate variables are risk factors in spreading the viral infection. The findings of this study provide useful information for public health authorities and decision-makers to develop future pandemic diseases strategies in high polluted metropolitan environments. [Display omitted] • Air pollutants and climate factors may trigger SARS-CoV-2 diffusion in Bucharest. • Synoptic anticyclonic air circulation patterns are related to COVID-19 multiwaves. • Exposure to outdoor and indoor radon can increase COVID-19 incidence and severity. • COVID-19 and climate driving factors have mutual seasonality patterns in Bucharest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recently emerged coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which has been characterised as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), is impacting all parts of human society including agriculture, manufacturing, and tertiary sectors involving all service provision industries. This paper aims to give an overview of potential host reservoirs that could cause pandemic outbreak caused by zoonotic transmission. Amongst all, continues surveillance in slaughterhouse for possible pathogens transmission is needed to prevent next pandemic outbreak. This paper also summarizes the potential threats of pandemic to agriculture and aquaculture sector that control almost the total food supply chain and market. The history lesson from the past, emerging and reemerging infectious disease including the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2002, Influenza A H1N1 (swine flu) in 2009, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in 2012 and the recent COVID-19 should give us some clue to improve especially the governance to be more ready for next coming pandemic. • Urbanization promotes the occurrence of zoonotic diseases transmission. • The outbreak of COVID19 affected the global food supply chain. • In preparedness to prevent pandemic outbreak, the continues surveillance of food safety is obligated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates at the world level the influence of climate on the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. For that purpose, panel regressions of the number of cases and deaths from 134 countries are run on a set of explanatory variables (air temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, and wind) along with control variables (government interventions and population size and density). The analysis is completed with a panel threshold regression to check for potential non-linearities of the weather variables on virus transmission. The main findings support the role of climate in the circulation of the virus across countries. The detailed analysis reveals that relative humidity reduces the number of cases and deaths in both low and high regimes, while temperature and wind reduce the number of deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counteracting the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is a current and important problem. A crucial issue in this area is the disinfection of various surfaces, as well as the air itself. For this purpose, devices such as foggers, which have different designs, are used. The appropriate size of droplets and their distribution determines the effectiveness of disinfectants. The paper presents droplet size distributions and characteristic mean droplet diameters, which are obtained with the use of a conical pressure-swirl atomizer. For the purpose of the analysis, the laser diffraction method was used. The influence of gas pressure and the distance from the atomizer's orifice on the spray angle and the distance between the nozzles on the spray curtain was also demonstrated. • The laser diffraction method was used. • The droplet size distributions and droplet mean diameters were analyzed. • The effect of gas pressure and the distance from the orifice were presented. • The spray angle was determined. • The distribution of the nozzles on the curtain's support frame was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the influence of weather conditions on the COVID-19 epidemic is an emerging field. However, existing studies in this area tend to utilize time-series data, which have certain limitations and fail to consider individual, social, and economic factors. Therefore, this study aimed to fill this gap. In this paper, we explored the influence of weather conditions on the COVID-19 epidemic using COVID-19-related prefecture-daily panel data collected in mainland China between January 1, 2020, and February 19, 2020. A two-way fixed effect model was applied taking into account factors including public health measures, effective distance to Wuhan, population density, economic development level, health, and medical conditions. We also used a piecewise linear regression to determine the relationship in detail. We found that there is a conditional negative relationship between weather conditions and the epidemic. Each 1 °C rise in mean temperature led to a 0.49% increase in the confirmed cases growth rate when mean temperature was above −7 °C. Similarly, when the relative humidity was greater than 46%, it was negatively correlated with the epidemic, where a 1% increase in relative humidity decreased the rate of confirmed cases by 0.19%. Furthermore, prefecture-level administrative regions, such as Chifeng (included as "warning cities") have more days of "dangerous weather", which is favorable for outbreaks. In addition, we found that the impact of mean temperature is greatest in the east, the influence of relative humidity is most pronounced in the central region, and the significance of weather conditions is more important in the coastal region. Finally, we found that rising diurnal temperatures decreased the negative impact of weather conditions on the spread of COVID-19. We also observed that strict public health measures and high social concern can mitigate the adverse effects of cold and dry weather on the spread of the epidemic. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study which applies the two-way fixed effect model to investigate the influence of weather conditions on the COVID-19 epidemic, takes into account socio-economic factors and draws new conclusions. • The relationship between weather conditions and COVID-19 epidemic was studied using two-way fixed effect model. • Individual, social and economic factors such as public health measures were also taken into account. • Mean temperature (when > -7 °C) and relative humidity (when >46%) showed significantly negative associations with confirmed cases growth rate. • "Warning cities" were defined based on "dangerous weather". • Strict public health measures and public opinion can mitigate the weather effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 is a lung disease, and there is medical evidence that air pollution is one of the external causes of lung diseases. Fine particulate matter is one of the air pollutants that damages pulmonary tissue. The combination of the coronavirus and fine particulate matter air pollution may exacerbate the coronavirus' effect on human health. This paper considers whether the long-term concentration of fine particulate matter of different sizes changes the number of detected coronavirus infections and the number of COVID-19 fatalities in Germany. Data from 400 German counties for fine particulate air pollution from 2002 to 2020 are used to measure the long-term impact of air pollution. Kriging interpolation is applied to complement data gaps. With an ecological study, the correlation between average particulate matter air pollution and COVID-19 cases, as well as fatalities, are estimated with OLS regressions. Thereby, socioeconomic and demographic covariates are included. An increase in the average long-term air pollution of 1 μg/m3 particulate matter PM 2.5 is correlated with 199.46 (SD = 29.66) more COVID-19 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in Germany. For PM 10 the respective increase is 52.38 (SD = 12.99) more cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The number of COVID-19 deaths were also positively correlated with PM 2.5 and PM 10 (6.18, SD = 1.44, respectively 2.11, SD = 0.71, additional COVID-19 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants). Long-term fine particulate air pollution is suspected as causing higher numbers of COVID-19 cases. Higher long-term air pollution may even increase COVID-19 death rates. We find that the results of the correlation analysis without controls are retained in a regression analysis with controls for relevant confounding factors. Nevertheless, additional epidemiological investigations are required to test the causality of particulate matter air pollution for COVID-19 cases and the severity. • COVID-19 infections are substantially positively correlated with long-term particulate matter concentration in German counties. • The correlation is robust to the inclusion of relevant control variables in multiple OLS regressions. • COVID-19 fatalities are also positively correlated with long-term particulate matter concentration. • The correlation between particulate matter concentration and COVID-19 fatalities was not robust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experience gained over the last hundred years clearly indicates that two groups of viruses represent the main risk for the development of highly transmissible epidemics and pandemics in the human species: influenza viruses and coronaviruses (CoV). Although the search for viruses with pandemic potential in the environment may have an important predictive and monitoring role, it is still based on empirical methodologies, mostly resulting from the clinic and not fully validated for environmental matrices. As far as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, currently underway, is concerned, environmental monitoring activities aiming at checking the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater can be extremely useful to predict and check the diffusion of the disease. For this reason, the present study aims at evaluating the SARS-CoV-2 diffusion by means of a wastewater-based environmental monitoring developed in Piedmont, N–W Italy, during the second and third pandemic waves. Wastewater sampling strategies, sampling points sample pre-treatments and analytical methods, data processing and standardization, have been developed and discussed to give representative and reliable results. The following outcomes has been highlighted by the present study: i) a strong correlation between SARS-CoV-2 concentration in untreated wastewater and epidemic evolution in the considered areas can be observed as well as a predictive potential that could provide decision-makers with indications to implement effective policies, to mitigate the effects of the ongoing pandemic and to prepare response plans for future pandemics that could certainly arise in the decades to come; ii) moreover, the data at disposal from our monitoring campaign (almost 500 samples analysed in 11 months) confirm that SARS-CoV-2 concentrations in wastewater are strongly variable and site-specific across the region: the highest SARS-CoV-2 concentration values have been found in sewer networks serving the most populated areas of the region; iii) normalization of viral concentrations in wastewater through Pepper Mild Mottle Virus (a specific faecal marker) has been carried out and commented; iv) the study highlights the potential of wastewater treatment plants to degrade the genetic material referable to SARS-CoV-2 as well. In conclusion, the preliminary data reported in the present paper, although they need to be complemented by further studies considering also other geographical regions, are very promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the COVID-19 pandemic is still in progress, being under the fifth COVID-19 wave in Madrid, over more than one year, Spain experienced a four wave pattern. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 pathogens in Madrid metropolitan region was investigated from an urban context associated with seasonal variability of climate and air pollution drivers. Based on descriptive statistics and regression methods of in-situ and geospatial daily time series data, this study provides a comparative analysis between COVID-19 waves incidence and mortality cases in Madrid under different air quality and climate conditions. During analyzed period 1 January 2020–1 July 2021, for each of the four COVID-19 waves in Madrid were recorded anomalous anticyclonic synoptic meteorological patterns in the mid-troposphere and favorable stability conditions for COVID-19 disease fast spreading. As airborne microbial temporal pattern is most affected by seasonal changes, this paper found: 1) a significant negative correlation of air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, and surface solar irradiance with daily new COVID-19 incidence and deaths; 2) a similar mutual seasonality with climate variables of the first and the fourth COVID-waves from spring seasons of 2020 and 2021 years. Such information may help the health decision makers and public plan for the future. • Climate factors and air quality can trigger SARS-CoV-2 viral infection transmission. • Synoptic atmospheric circulation patterns are related to COVID-19 waves start-up. • 1st and 4th COVID-19 waves have similar correlations with environmental variables. • COVID-19 and climate driving factors have mutual seasonality patterns in Madrid. • Early health strategies are essential to control the COVID-19 pandemic in Madrid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the appearance of the first cases of COVID-19 in 2019, an unprecedented number of documents on that disease have been published in a short space of time. The current available information covers a large number of topics related with COVID-19 and/or the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) responsible of the disease. However, only a limited number of publications have been focused on a controversial issue: the origin of the SARS-CoV-2. In this paper, the scientific literature on the origin of SARS-CoV-2 has been reviewed. Documents published during 2020 and 2021 (January 1-July 19) in journals that are indexed in PubMed and/or Scopus has been considered. The revised studies were grouped according to these two potential origins: natural and unnatural. The analyses of the conclusions of the different documents here assessed show that even considering the zoonotic hypothesis as the most likely, with bats and pangolins being possibly in the origin of the coronavirus, today's date the intermediate source species of SARS-CoV-2 has not been confirmed yet. On the other hand, some researchers point to an unnatural origin of this coronavirus, but their conclusions are not strongly supported by a clear scientific evidence. Given the tremendous severity of the current pandemic, investigations to establish clearly and definitively the origin of SARS-CoV-2, are basic and essential in order to prevent potential future pandemics of similar nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many environmental justice communities face elevated exposures to multiple stressors, given biases in urban and environmental policy and planning. This paper aims to evaluate sound level exposure in a densely populated environmental justice city in close proximity to major roadways, a nearby airport and high levels of industrial activity. In this study we collected various sound level metrics to evaluate the loudness and frequency composition of the acoustical environment in Chelsea, Massachusetts, USA. A total of 29 week-long sites were collected from October 2019 to June 2020, a time period that also included the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, which drastically altered activity patterns and corresponding sound level exposures. We found that Chelsea is exposed to high levels of sound, both day and night (65 dB (A), and 80 dB and 90 dB for low frequency, and infrasound sound levels). A spectral analysis shows that 63 Hz was the dominant frequency. Distance to major roads and flight activity (both arrivals and departures) were most strongly correlated with all metrics, most notably with metrics describing contributing from lower frequencies. Overall, we found similar patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic but at levels up to 10 dB lower. Our results demonstrate the importance of noise exposure assessments in environmental justice communities and the importance of using additional metrics to describe communities inundated with significant air, road, and industrial sound levels. It also provides a snapshot of how much quieter communities can be with careful and intentional urban and environmental policy and planning. • We conducted a noise exposure assessment before and during COVID-19 stay-at-home advisories in an environmental justice and sanctuary city. • Like many EJCs, this city is in close proximity to major rail, road, and air networks and industrial operations.Pre-pandemic, Chelsea was exposed to similar sound levels, both day and night, across all metrics. • A spectral analysis shows that 63 Hz was the dominant frequency.Distance to major roads and flight activity (both arrivals and departures) were most strongly correlated with all metrics, most notably with metrics describing contributing from lower frequencies. • Overall, we found similar patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic but at levels up to 10 decibels lower. • Comprehensive noise assessments in EJCs are particularly important as they house our most vulnerable residents. • We also show the importance of using additional metrics to describe communities inundated with significant air, road, and industrial sources. • We also provide a shot of how much quieter EJCs can be with careful and intentional urban and environmental policy and planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the problems hardly clarified in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic crisis is to identify factors associated with a lower mortality of COVID-19 between countries to design strategies to cope with future pandemics in society. The study here confronts this problem by developing a global analysis based on more than 160 countries. This paper proposes that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, healthcare spending and air pollution of nations are critical factors associated with fatality rate of COVID-19. The statistical evidence seems in general to support that countries with a low average COVID-19 fatality rate have high expenditures in health sector >7.5% of GDP, high health expenditures per capita >$2,300 and a lower exposure of population to days exceeding safe levels of particulate matter (PM 2.5). Another relevant finding here is that these countries have lower case fatality rates (CFRs) of COVID-19, regardless a higher percentage of population aged more than 65 years. Overall, then, this study finds that an effective and proactive strategy to reduce the negative impact of future pandemics, driven by novel viral agents, has to be based on a planning of enhancement of healthcare sector and of environmental sustainability that can reduce fatality rate of infectious diseases in society. • Expenditures in health sector >7.5% of GDP can reduce COVID-19 mortality between countries. • Health expenditures >$2,300 per capita can lessen COVID-19 mortality between countries. • Lower exposure of population to days having high levels of air pollution reduces COVID-19 mortality. • High health expenditures reduce COVID-19 mortality, though a high share of older population. • Efficient healthcare sector and environmental sustainability minimize case fatality rates of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus has come to the world and spread with great wide among the countries of the world and has resulted in numerous infections that exceeded 167,181,023 million patients and are close to 3.5 deaths by September 2021. It also brought with it panic and fear, halted many activities, and led to the decline of the global economy. It changed human behavior and forced people to change their lifestyles to avoid infection. One of the most sectors that must be taken into consideration through pandemic coronavirus (COVID-19) around the globe is the air conditioning systems. The HVAC systems depend on the air as a heat transfer medium. The air contains a group of pollutants, viruses, and bacteria, and it affects and destroys human life. The air filter plays a major role as an important component in the air conditioning systems. Thus, it requires more effort by researchers to improve its design to prevent the ultra-size of particles loaded with coronavirus (COVID-19). This paper provides insight into the design of existing combined air-conditioners on their suitability and their impact on the spread of the hybrid coronavirus epidemic and review efforts to obtain a highly efficient air filter to get rid of super-sized particles for protection against epidemic infection. In addition, important guideline recommendations have been made to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus and to obtain indoor air quality in air-conditioned places. • Indoor air quality is important in our society and provides healthy human comfort. • Increasing the temperatures and humidity dampen the activity of the COVID-19. • The air carries suspended particles of the COVID-19, which leads to an increase in infected cases. • Improper use of filters leads to spread of the bacterial and viruses' indoor environment. • Mandatory recommendations are drawn to benefit the global community to limit the spread of the deadly COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater based epidemiology is increasingly being considered as a potentially useful tool for early warning about eventual new COVID-19 outbreaks. In addition, some authors are investigating on the detection and quantification of SARS-CoV-2 in sewage sludge. However, no paper has been published up to date indicating how this virus could be quantified in soil samples. In view of that, we review available data searching for methodological approaches that could guide on the quantification of SARS-CoV-2 (and even other pathogenic microorganisms) in soils. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although lockdown of the industrial and transport sector and stay at home advisories to counter the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that the air quality has improved during this time, very little is known about the role of ambient air pollutants and meteorology in facilitating its transmission. This paper presents the findings from a study that was conducted to evaluate whether air quality index (AQI), three primary pollutants (PM 2.5 , PM 10 and CO), Ground level ozone (O 3) and three meteorological variables (temperature, relative humidity, wind speed) have promoted the COVID-19 transmission in five megacities of India. The results show significant correlation of PM 2.5 , PM 10 , CO, O 3 concentrations, AQI and meteorological parameters with the confirmed cases and deaths during the lockdown period. Among the meteorological variables considered, temperature strongly correlated with the COVID-19 cases and deaths during the lockdown (r = 0.54 ; 0.25) and unlock period (r = 0.66 ; 0.25). Among the pollutants, ozone, and among the meteorological variables, temperature, explained the highest variability, up to 34% and 30% respectively, for COVID-19 confirmed cases and deaths. AQI was not a significant parameter for explaining the variations in confirmed and death cases. WS and RH could explain 10–11% and 4–6% variations of COVID-19 cases. A GLM model could explain 74% and 35% variability for confirmed cases and deaths during the lockdown and 66% and 19% variability during the unlock period. The results suggest that meteorological parameters may have promoted the COVID-19 incidences, especially the confirmed cases. Our findings may encourage future studies to explore more about the role of ambient air pollutants and meteorology on transmission of COVID-19 and similar infectious diseases. [Display omitted] • During lockdown for COVID-19, air quality improved in five megacities of India. • PM 2.5 , PM 10 , CO concentration across the megacities reduced during the lockdown. • Delhi and Kolkata experienced rise in O 3 concentration during lockdown. • PM 2.5 , PM 10 , CO, O 3 , AQI and T correlated with COVID-19 confirmed cases and deaths. • Temperature explained up to 30% variability for COVID-19 cases during the lockdown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the effects of atmospheric conditions on the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and its associated disease, COVID-19. For this purpose, we assess the limitations of bioclimatic correlative models to explain the geographic distribution of SARS-CoV-2 in the context of medical geography. Overall, there is a broad consensus that the global distribution of COVID-19 is not random but conditioned by environmental drivers. However, as the COVID-19 distribution becomes global, including tropical climates, the evidence reveals that atmospheric conditions explain, at most, only a limited amount of the space-time dynamics of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, the usefulness of approaches based on bioclimatic envelopes is in question since the dominant route for the spread of COVID-19 seems to be the anthroposphere's non-stationary environment. In this sense, there is a need to clarify further the role of different transmission routes at multiple scales and outdoor and indoor environments beyond bioclimatic envelopes. At this time, the possible influence of the weather in COVID-19 spread is not sufficient to be taken into account in public health policies. Hence, until reliable bioclimatic envelopes of SARS-CoV-2, if any, are found, caution should be exercised when reporting, as this could have unforeseen consequences. • Weather barely explains the space-time dynamics of SARS-CoV-2. • Bioclimatic envelopes do not account for the non-stationary anthroposphere. • Correlative bioclimatic models of SARS-CoV-2 may lead to spurious conclusions. • Transmission routes in outdoor/indoor environments are blind-spots in these models. • Evidence on climate influence is not robust to be considered in public health policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By mid-September 2020, over 1.33 million confirmed COVID-19 cases and 32 thousand deaths had been reported in Africa. Global research on COVID-19 went 'viral' with a record 3487 research contributions comprising of 2062 journal papers and 1425 preprints published within the first three months following the outbreak of COVID-19. Surprisingly, the silence of the African research community has been unprecedented – contributing a paltry 0.6% (22 contributions), a figure nearly matched by Colombia (18 publications). Until now, a comprehensive perspective on the reasons for this subdued research response, and COVID-19 themes critical to Africa has been missing. We posit that while a milieu of factors accounts for this silence, unprecedented research opportunities exist to support COVID-19 decision and policy formulation in Africa. The subdued response reflects weak research systems, characterized by deep-rooted challenges, including severe lack of research expertise, funding, and infrastructure, coupled with poor working conditions. Hence, Africa's contribution to research on infectious diseases, including COVID-19, remains weak. Perceptions and attitudes among researchers and policy-makers on COVID-19, and the role of science in decision and policy-making also exist. Moreover, COVID-19 and earlier severe acute respiratory syndromes are considered as 'imported diseases' originating from outside Africa. Thus, notions may exist that the control methods will come from outside Africa through 'technology-transfer' or 'capacity-building'. Yet local COVID-19 research is needed to address knowledge gaps, including; (1) potential novel transmission of SARS-CoV-2, (2) adaption of generic COVID-19 control measures to suit African settings, (3) occurrence and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in solid waste, wastewaters, on-site sanitation systems, and drinking water, and (4) the 'human factor' including the role of gender, perceptions, myths, attitudes, and religious beliefs in the transmission and control of COVID-19. Therefore, there is a need to: (1) strengthen local research capacity and evaluation systems, (2) consider biosafety and ethical issues, (3) initiate cross-disciplinary research and global collaboration on COVID-19, and (4) integrate science communication in COVID-19 programs. Image 1 • COVID-19 infections in Africa continue to rise, with over 1 million confirmed cases. • Current COVID-19 control and potential novel transmission pose challenges in Africa. • Surprisingly, Africa's research response to COVID-19 is subdued and unprecedented. • Weak research, lack of expertise, perceptions and attitudes account for the silence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, researchers have tried to characterise the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 to better understand the pathogenic mechanisms of the virus and prevent further dissemination. As a consequence, there has been a bloom in scientific research papers focused on the behaviour of the virus in different environmental contexts. Nevertheless, despite these efforts and due to its novelty, available information about this coronavirus is limited, as several research studies are still ongoing. This review aims to shed light on this issue. To that end, we have examined the scientific literature to date regarding the viability of SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces and fluids or under different environmental conditions (temperature, precipitation and UV radiation). We have also addressed the role of animals in the transmission of this coronavirus. Image 1 • Data overview on practical information about SARS-CoV-2-survival on different surfaces. • SARS-CoV-2 is not affected with temperatures as seasonal coronaviruses. • UV radiation may inactivate SARS-CoV-2 after 1 h of index of 10. • Pet animals such as cat, dogs, and ferrets are susceptible to infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practice of social distancing and wearing masks has been popular worldwide in combating the contraction of COVID-19. Undeniably, although such practices help control the COVID-19 pandemic to a greater extent, the complete control of virus-laden droplet and aerosol transmission by such practices is poorly understood. This review paper intends to outline the literature concerning the transmission of virus-laden droplets and aerosols in different environmental settings and demonstrates the behavior of droplets and aerosols resulted from a cough-jet of an infected person in various confined spaces. The case studies that have come out in different countries have, with prima facie evidence, manifested that the airborne transmission plays a profound role in contracting susceptible hosts. The infection propensities in confined spaces (airplane, passenger car, and healthcare center) by the transmission of droplets and aerosols under varying ventilation conditions were discussed. Interestingly, the nosocomial transmission by airborne SARS-CoV-2 virus-laden aerosols in healthcare facilities may be plausible. Hence, clearly defined, science-based administrative, clinical, and physical measures are of paramount importance to eradicate the COVID-19 pandemic from the world. • Social distancing and wearing masks became popular worldwide for control of COVID-19. • Droplet and aerosol transmission of COVID-19 has been poorly understood. • Examples have been reported to speculate the airborne transmission of COVID-19. • Nosocomial infection through airborne transmission seems plausible in confined spaces. • Proper administrative, clinical, and physical measures are paramount to combat the transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide spread of COVID-19 in a quite short time has brought a dramatic decrease in industrial activities, road traffic and tourism. Restricted human interaction with nature during this crisis time has appeared as a blessing for nature and environment. Reports from all over the world are indicating that after the outbreak of COVID-19, environmental conditions including air quality and water quality in rivers are improving and wildlife is blooming. India has always been a hub of pollution with huge population, heavy traffics and polluting industries leading to high air quality index (AQI) values in all major cities. But after declaration of lockdown due to COVID-19, quality of air has started to improve and all other environmental parameters such as water quality in rivers have started giving a positive sign towards restoring. This paper provides evidence-based insight into improvement of air quality and environment during pre and post lockdown of this pandemic situation. An attempt has been made to visualize the improvement in the air quality using tools like satellite images of Indian atmosphere, results of onsite real-time monitoring at specific locations (Ghaziabad-highest polluting city of India) and Air quality index (AQI) calculated by central pollution control board of India. • Brief database of obliteration caused by COVID-19 pandemic. • Assessment of environmental impact of subsequent lockdown. • Data gathered from national & international agencies in Indian context. • Study of Satellite images, onsite monitoring data and Air Quality Index. • Substantial improvement observed in air quality and other environmental indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]