Friday 5 Round-Up: Research For COVID-19 Solutions: From Cell ‘Membrane on a Chip’ to Vaccine in Clinical Trials for Military Use

1.  Science Daily

Newer Variant of COVID-19-Causing Virus Dominates Global Infection

New research shows that a specific change in the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus virus genome, previously associated with increased viral transmission and the spread of COVID-19, is more infectious in cell culture.

Read this article on sciencedaily.com>

2.  Science Bulletin

Cell ‘Membrane on a Chip’ Could Speed Up Screening of Drug Candidates for COVID-19

Image Source: sciencebulletin.com

Researchers have developed a human cell ‘membrane on a chip’ that allows continuous monitoring of how drugs and infectious agents interact with our cells, and may soon be used to test potential drug candidates for COVID-19.

Read this article on sciencebulletin.com>

3.  Oral Health Group

Case Management Can be Key to Helping High-Risk Children

An ADA-supported study by two North Dakota dental professionals showed that proactive dental case management facilitates referrals and appointment compliance, reduces reimbursement barriers, and reduces the need for more costly future treatment for high-risk low-income children by promoting the prevention of dental disease.

Read the article on oralhealthgroup.com>

4.  Dentistry IQ

Stronger as a team: Closing The Gap Between Dentists and Hygienists

Now more than ever, it’s vital that dentists and dental hygienists team up to provide safe, reliable care to patients. Shannon Richkowski, RDH, stresses the importance of teamwork regarding these two essential professions.

Read this article on dentistryiq.com>

5. United Press International

Chinese officials announced Monday that they have approved a new COVID-19 vaccine for immediate use by military personnel. The vaccine, called Ad5-nCoV, is currently being evaluated in clinical trials.

Read this article on upi.com>

Reassuring patients that it's safe to come back to the office

By: Lynn Liu

At no time in recent memory has patient communication & engagement been more important for business success.

As restrictions are lifted, offices need to look towards returning to full efficiency and re-booking appointments as quickly as possible. However, patients won’t be rushing in just because the restrictions are lessened - many will hesitate to come in for appointments unless it's absolutely necessary to do so.

Patients are wondering: what new precautions are offices taking to prevent the further spread of COVID-19?

That is why it is incredibly important to reassure patients that your office is going above and beyond to provide a safe and comfortable environment. Here are our recommendations on how to get patients comfortable with the idea of coming for in-person visits again.