Search

Current SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic methods are sensitive yet poorly suited to testing whole communities on a regular basis. Here the authors present Cap-iLAMP that tests gargle lavage samples with an improved colorimetric RT-LAMP.

SARS-CoV-2 causes substantial morbidity and mortality in elderly and immunocompromised individuals, particularly in retirement homes, where transmission from asymptomatic staff and visitors may introduce the infection. Here we present a cheap and fast screening method based on direct RT-qPCR to detect SARS-CoV-2 in single or pooled gargle lavages ("mouthwashes"). This method detects individuals with large viral loads (Ct≤29) and we use it to test all staff at a nursing home daily over a period of three weeks in order to reduce the risk that the infection penetrates the facility. This or similar approaches can be implemented to protect hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions in this and future viral epidemics.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Dasypogon diadema (Insecta: Diptera) was sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq` platform. Its mt-genome spans over 16,947 bp with a GC content of 26.6% containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic relationship of Dasypogon diadema and 11 other dipteran species was reconstructed and the phylogenetic position confirmed.