Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Miscellaneous Products: Personal Safety Equipment and Clothing (WPU1571) from Jun 1978 to May 2025 about safety, miscellaneous, apparel, equipment, personal, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Personal Protective Equipment Dataset (PPED)

This dataset serves as a benchmark for PPE in chemical plants
We provide datasets and experimental results.

1. The dataset

We produced a data set based on the actual needs and relevant regulations in chemical plants.
The standard GB 39800.1-2020 formulated by the Ministry of Emergency Management of the People’s Republic of China defines the protective requirements for plants and chemical laboratories.
The complete dataset is contained in the folder PPED/data.

1.1. Image collection

We took more than 3300 pictures.
We set the following different characteristics, including different environments, different distances, different lighting conditions, different angles, and the diversity of the number of people photographed.

• Backgrounds: There are 4 backgrounds, including office, near machines, factory and regular outdoor scenes.
• Scale: By taking pictures from different distances, the captured PPEs are classified in small, medium and large scales.
• Light: Good lighting conditions and poor lighting conditions were studied.
• Diversity: Some images contain a single person, and some contain multiple people.
• Angle: The pictures we took can be divided into front and side.

A total of more than 3300 photos were taken in the raw data under all conditions.
All images are located in the folder “PPED/data/JPEGImages”.

1.2. Label

We use Labelimg as the labeling tool, and we use the PASCAL-VOC labelimg format.
Yolo use the txt format, we can use trans_voc2yolo.py to convert the XML file in PASCAL-VOC format to txt file.
Annotations are stored in the folder PPED/data/Annotations

1.3. Dataset Features

The pictures are made by us according to the different conditions mentioned above.
The file PPED/data/feature.csv is a CSV file which notes all the .os of all the image. It records every feature of the picture, including lighting conditions, angles, backgrounds, number of people and scale.

1.4. Dataset Division

The data set is divided into 9:1 training set and test set.

2. Baseline Experiments

We provide baseline results with five models, namely Faster R-CNN ®, Faster R-CNN (M), SSD, YOLOv3-spp, and YOLOv5.
All code and results is given in folder PPED/experiment.

2.1. Environment and Configuration:

• Intel Core i7-8700 CPU
• NVIDIA GTX1060 GPU
• 16 GB of RAM
• Python: 3.8.10
• pytorch: 1.9.0
• pycocotools: pycocotools-win
• Windows 10

2.2. Applied Models

The source codes and results of the applied models is given in folder PPED/experiment with sub-folders corresponding to the model names.

2.2.1. Faster R-CNN

• Faster R-CNN
  • backbone: resnet50+fpn
    • We downloaded the pre-training weights from https://download.pytorch.org/models/fasterrcnn_resnet50_fpn_coco-258fb6c6.pth.
    • We modified the dataset path, training classes and training parameters including batch size.
    • We run train_res50_fpn.py start training.
    • Then, the weights are trained by the training set.
    • Finally, we validate the results on the test set.
  • backbone: mobilenetv2
    • the same training method as resnet50+fpn, but the effect is not as good as resnet50+fpn, so it is directly discarded.

The Faster R-CNN source code used in our experiment is given in folder PPED/experiment/Faster R-CNN.
The weights of the fully-trained Faster R-CNN (R), Faster R-CNN (M) model are stored in file PPED/experiment/trained_models/resNetFpn-model-19.pth and mobile-model.pth.
The performance measurements of Faster R-CNN (R) Faster R-CNN (M) are stored in folder PPED/experiment/results/Faster RCNN(R)and Faster RCNN(M).

2.2.2. SSD

• backbone: resnet50
• We downloaded pre-training weights from https://download.pytorch.org/models/resnet50-19c8e357.pth.
• The same training method as Faster R-CNN is applied.

The SSD source code used in our experiment is given in folder PPED/experiment/ssd.
The weights of the fully-trained SSD model are stored in file PPED/experiment/trained_models/SSD_19.pth.
The performance measurements of SSD are stored in folder PPED/experiment/results/SSD.

2.2.3. YOLOv3-spp

• backbone: DarkNet53
• We modified the type information of the XML file to match our application.
• We run trans_voc2yolo.py to convert the XML file in VOC format to a txt file.
• The weights used are: yolov3-spp-ultralytics-608.pt.

The YOLOv3-spp source code used in our experiment is given in folder PPED/experiment/YOLOv3-spp.
The weights of the fully-trained YOLOv3-spp model are stored in file PPED/experiment/trained_models/YOLOvspp-19.pt.
The performance measurements of YOLOv3-spp are stored in folder PPED/experiment/results/YOLOv3-spp.

2.2.4. YOLOv5

• backbone: CSP_DarkNet
• We modified the type information of the XML file to match our application.
• We run trans_voc2yolo.py to convert the XML file in VOC format to a txt file.
• The weights used are: yolov5s.

The YOLOv5 source code used in our experiment is given in folder PPED/experiment/yolov5.
The weights of the fully-trained YOLOv5 model are stored in file PPED/experiment/trained_models/YOLOv5.pt.
The performance measurements of YOLOv5 are stored in folder PPED/experiment/results/YOLOv5.

2.3. Evaluation

The computed evaluation metrics as well as the code needed to compute them from our dataset are provided in the folder PPED/experiment/eval.

3. Code Sources

1. Faster R-CNN (R and M)
   • https://github.com/WZMIAOMIAO/deep-learning-for-image-processing/tree/master/pytorch_object_detection/faster_rcnn
   • official code: https://github.com/pytorch/vision/blob/main/torchvision/models/detection/faster_rcnn.py
2. SSD
   • https://github.com/WZMIAOMIAO/deep-learning-for-image-processing/tree/master/pytorch_object_detection/ssd
   • official code: https://github.com/pytorch/vision/blob/main/torchvision/models/detection/ssd.py
3. YOLOv3-spp
   • https://github.com/WZMIAOMIAO/deep-learning-for-image-processing/tree/master/pytorch_object_detection/yolov3-spp
4. YOLOv5
   • https://github.com/ultralytics/yolov5

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Industry: Chemical Manufacturing (PCU325325) from Dec 1984 to May 2025 about chemicals, manufacturing, PPI, industry, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The melt-blown material market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the surging demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) like face masks and medical protective clothing. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated this growth, highlighting the critical role of melt-blown materials in healthcare and public safety. While the immediate post-pandemic period saw some market correction, the long-term outlook remains positive, fueled by continued demand for hygiene and filtration applications across various industries. The market is segmented by application (masks, medical protective clothing, industrial filter materials, and others) and melt index (<1500 and ≥1500), influencing material properties and suitability for different applications. The higher melt index materials generally offer improved strength and filtration efficiency, commanding a premium price. Significant regional variations exist, with Asia Pacific, particularly China, currently dominating the market due to its large manufacturing base and substantial domestic demand. However, North America and Europe are expected to witness considerable growth in the coming years, driven by increasing healthcare expenditure and stringent regulatory standards. Competition is intense, with a mix of large multinational corporations and smaller regional players vying for market share. Innovation in material science and the development of sustainable and biodegradable melt-blown materials are key trends influencing the market landscape. Challenges include fluctuating raw material prices, stringent environmental regulations, and maintaining consistent product quality. Considering a CAGR of, let's assume, 8% (a reasonable estimate for this growth market given the data), a market size of $10 billion in 2025 (an estimated figure based on industry reports of similar markets), and the provided forecast period, we can project substantial market expansion in the coming years. The market's growth trajectory will be shaped by several factors. Technological advancements in melt-blown material production will continue to improve efficiency and product performance, driving adoption in new applications. The increasing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives is creating opportunities for manufacturers developing biodegradable and recycled melt-blown materials. Government regulations and industry standards related to PPE and air filtration will significantly influence market demand in various regions. Strategic collaborations and mergers & acquisitions will further consolidate the market, leading to increased competition and innovation. The evolving geopolitical landscape and potential disruptions in supply chains could also impact future market growth, necessitating robust risk management strategies for market players. Overall, the melt-blown material market presents a compelling opportunity for investors and businesses with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and efficient manufacturing.

UN Comtrade data on imports and exports of PPE, specifically face masks, eye protection, and gloves.2019 data are unavailable for China and "Other Asia nes," meaning other territories in Asia not elsewhere specified. In this dataset 2019 values for China and Other Asia nes are replaced by their 2018 values.

The melt-blown material market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the escalating demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) and industrial filtration applications. While the exact market size for 2025 isn't provided, considering the significant expansion in PPE demand following the global pandemic and the continued growth in industrial filtration, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market size would be around $5 billion USD. Let's assume a conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% based on projected market trends. This growth is fueled by several key factors including rising awareness of air and water pollution, stringent government regulations on industrial emissions, and the continuous innovation in filter technologies. The market is segmented by melt index (less than 1500 and greater than or equal to 1500), reflecting the diverse material properties required for different applications. Key application segments include masks, medical protective clothing, industrial filter materials (for HVAC, automotive, and other industrial processes), and other niche applications. The significant expansion of the healthcare sector and the ongoing development of advanced filtration systems are expected to further drive market growth. Major players like LyondellBasell, SCG, and Lotte Chemical are shaping the market through strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and investments in research and development. The regional landscape shows strong growth across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with China and India emerging as key contributors. However, factors such as fluctuating raw material prices and potential supply chain disruptions pose challenges to the market's sustained growth. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for the melt-blown material market remains positive, propelled by continuous technological advancements and the expanding application areas. This suggests a projected market size exceeding $8 billion by 2033, based on the estimated 8% CAGR. This robust growth trajectory indicates significant opportunities for both established players and new entrants in this dynamic market.

In 2022, the manufacturing of rubber and plastic products in Malaysia had a production index of 152.6, a decrease compared to the previous year. The production index for rubber products had been increasing in 2020 and 2021, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the global demand for personal protective equipment (PPE).

Vulnerability centrality index based on norm-1 right eigenvector centrality of Top 5 EU27 and top 5 non-EU countries.

The global X-ray protective wear market, valued at $756 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The increasing prevalence of ionizing radiation in medical imaging procedures necessitates stringent safety measures for healthcare professionals. Stringent regulatory frameworks mandating the use of protective apparel are also contributing to market growth. Furthermore, advancements in material science are leading to the development of lighter, more comfortable, and more effective protective wear, increasing adoption rates. Technological innovations such as improved lead-equivalence shielding and ergonomic designs are further enhancing market appeal. The rising number of diagnostic imaging centers and hospitals globally, coupled with the growing awareness of radiation risks among healthcare workers, fuels continued market expansion. The market is segmented by product type (lead aprons, thyroid shields, gloves, glasses, etc.), end-user (hospitals, diagnostic centers, veterinary clinics), and geography. While precise segmental data is unavailable, based on industry trends, we can reasonably assume that hospitals and diagnostic centers represent the largest end-user segment, given their higher volume of X-ray procedures. Similarly, lead aprons likely constitute the most significant product segment due to their widespread use. Geographic segmentation will likely reflect a higher market share for regions with advanced healthcare infrastructure and higher adoption of advanced medical technologies, such as North America and Europe. Competitive intensity is high, with numerous established players and emerging companies vying for market share. The competitive landscape is characterized by both price competition and innovation-driven differentiation, pushing the development of superior products and improved safety standards. Future growth will depend on the continuous improvement of protective apparel's design and functionality and the implementation of stricter regulations in emerging markets.

The global market for radiation protective caps is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing adoption of radiation therapy and diagnostic imaging procedures worldwide. The expanding geriatric population, coupled with rising incidences of cancer and other diseases requiring radiation treatment, fuels significant demand for effective personal protective equipment (PPE) like radiation protective caps. Technological advancements leading to more comfortable and lightweight caps, along with stringent regulatory requirements emphasizing radiation safety, further contribute to market expansion. While the precise market size for 2025 is unavailable, based on a plausible estimation considering a typical CAGR of 5-7% within the medical device sector and a potential 2024 market size of around $250 million, the 2025 market size could be reasonably estimated at approximately $262.5 million to $282.5 million. This growth is expected to continue throughout the forecast period (2025-2033), albeit potentially at a slightly moderated pace as the market matures. Key market segments include those based on material type (lead, lead-equivalent materials, etc.), design (disposable, reusable), and end-user (hospitals, clinics, research facilities). Competitive forces within the market are notable, with several companies vying for market share through product innovation and strategic partnerships. However, challenges such as high initial investment costs for advanced cap technologies and potential supply chain disruptions could influence growth trajectories. Specific regional market shares would vary significantly, with North America and Europe likely holding the largest portions due to advanced healthcare infrastructure and higher adoption rates of radiation-based medical procedures. Future growth will hinge on technological breakthroughs leading to even more effective and user-friendly protective caps, further penetration into emerging markets, and consistent regulatory support reinforcing radiation safety measures.

Mode of data collection

Other [oth]

Critical habitat is identified for species listed as Endangered or Threatened under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA) and where federal critical habitat protection orders are in effect. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is the responsible authority for the protection, recovery and conservation of all listed aquatic species at risk in Canada. Critical habitat is defined as the habitat that is necessary for the survival or recovery of a listed wildlife species and that is identified as such in the recovery strategy or action plan for the species (https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/species-risk-public-registry.html). SARA makes it illegal to destroy any part of the critical habitat of a listed species and may impose restrictions on development and construction. Species in this layer have federal protection of critical habitat under a Critical Habitat Order pursuant to subsections 58(4) and (5) of SARA, which brings into force the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of any part of critical habitat. This dataset delineates an area or extent in which the species and its critical habitat may be found. Exterior extent polygons are derived from the detailed data provided in DFO's Fisheries and Oceans Canada Species at Risk dataset, reproduced under the Open Government Licence - Canada. Alberta Environment and Protected Areas Fish and Wildlife Management Information System (FWMIS) Hydrology Arc and Polygons data, and a surrounding larger buffer. This dataset communicates to users the following information: the proximity of aquatic critical habitat. the prohibition against the destruction of any part of aquatic critical habitat. directs users to DFO to ensure compliance with federal legal instruments. and ensures that any activities which may result in the destruction of critical habitat are managed to the extent required under SARA. Users must consult Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Projects Near Water webpage: www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/index-eng.html. Fisheries Protection Program: FisheriesProtection@dfo-mpo.gc.ca) in relation to the application of the Species at Risk Act and published Critical Habitat Orders (SARA Public Registry).

High Melting Index Polypropylene Fiber Sales Market Outlook

The global High Melting Index Polypropylene Fiber Sales Market is projected to witness substantial growth with a market size reaching approximately $3.5 billion in 2023 and expected to surge to $5.9 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% over the forecast period. This market growth can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing demand for lightweight, durable, and cost-effective materials across various industries such as automotive, construction, and textiles.

One of the primary growth drivers for this market is the rising application of high melting index polypropylene fibers in the automotive industry. These fibers are extensively used to manufacture automotive interiors due to their excellent mechanical properties, resistance to abrasion, and lightweight nature. As the automotive industry continues to innovate and adopt materials that enhance fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle weight, the demand for high melting index polypropylene fibers is expected to grow significantly. Additionally, the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles further boosts the need for materials that can withstand higher temperatures and offer superior performance.

The construction industry is another significant contributor to the growth of the high melting index polypropylene fiber market. These fibers are increasingly being used in concrete reinforcement and geotextiles due to their high tensile strength and durability. The growing infrastructure development across emerging economies, coupled with the need for sustainable and robust construction materials, is driving the demand for polypropylene fibers. Moreover, the increasing focus on green building solutions and the use of recyclable materials in construction projects further augment the market growth.

The medical sector also presents lucrative opportunities for the high melting index polypropylene fiber market. These fibers are used in the production of various medical textiles, including surgical gowns, masks, and other disposable medical garments. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical textiles, leading to a surge in demand. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the growing elderly population are driving the need for high-performance medical textiles, further propelling the market growth.

In addition to the high melting index polypropylene fibers, the market is also seeing a growing interest in Low Melting Fiber. This type of fiber is particularly valued for its ability to bond with other fibers at lower temperatures, which is beneficial in creating nonwoven fabrics and composite materials. Low Melting Fiber is increasingly being used in the automotive and construction industries for applications that require enhanced bonding and structural integrity. Its unique properties make it an ideal choice for applications where thermal bonding is essential, offering manufacturers a versatile and efficient material solution.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the high melting index polypropylene fiber market, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the presence of key end-use industries such as automotive, construction, and textiles. North America and Europe are also significant markets, with strong demand from the automotive and medical sectors. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America regions are anticipated to witness moderate growth, supported by increasing infrastructure development and industrial activities.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the high melting index polypropylene fiber market is categorized into staple fiber and continuous fiber. Staple fibers, which are short, cut fibers, are widely used in nonwoven applications such as geotextiles, automotive interiors, and filtration materials. These fibers offer excellent durability, resistance to chemicals, and ease of processing, making them a preferred choice in various industrial applications. The growing demand for nonwoven fabrics in hygiene products, automotive, and construction sectors is expected to drive the growth of the staple fiber segment.

Continuous fibers, on the other hand, are long fibers that are used in applications requiring high tensile strength and durability. These fibers are extensively used in the production of

Changes in liver and kidney function tests and hematological indices in DSS induced colitic rats in response to PPE-NPs treatment.

The medicinal application of pomegranate peel extract enriched with polyphenols (PPE) as a therapeutic strategy for managing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is still limited. Integrating pomegranate peel extract (PPE) into an effective nanocarrier system could enhance its mechanistic actions, potentially aiding in the remission of colitis. Therefore, this approach aimed to enhance PPE’s stability and bioavailability and investigate mitigating impact of pomegranate peel extract-loaded nanoparticles (PPE-NPs) in a colitis model. Colonic injury was induced by 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and efficacy of disease progression after oral administration of PPE-NPs for 14 days was assessed by evaluating clinical signs severity, antioxidant and inflammatory markers, expressions of endoplasmic reticulum associated genes and histopathological and immunostaining analysis in colonic tissues. Clinical signs and disease activity index were effectively reduced, and the levels of fecal calprotectin were decreased in groups treated with PPE-NPs compared to DSS group. The colitic group showed a significant increase (P 

Critical habitat is identified for species listed as Endangered or Threatened under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA) and where federal critical habitat protection orders are in effect. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is the responsible authority for the protection, recovery and conservation of all listed aquatic species at risk in Canada. Critical habitat is defined as the habitat that is necessary for the survival or recovery of a listed wildlife species and that is identified as such in the recovery strategy or action plan for the species (https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/species-risk-public-registry.html). SARA makes it illegal to destroy any part of the critical habitat of a listed species and may impose restrictions on development and construction. Species in this layer have federal protection of critical habitat under a Critical Habitat Order pursuant to subsections 58(4) and (5) of SARA, which brings into force the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of any part of critical habitat. This dataset delineates an area or extent in which the species and its critical habitat may be found. Exterior extent polygons are derived from the detailed data provided in DFO's Fisheries and Oceans Canada Species at Risk dataset, reproduced under the Open Government Licence - Canada. Alberta Environment and Protected Areas Fish and Wildlife Management Information System (FWMIS) Hydrology Arc and Polygons data, and a surrounding larger buffer. This dataset communicates to users the following information: the proximity of aquatic critical habitat. the prohibition against the destruction of any part of aquatic critical habitat. directs users to DFO to ensure compliance with federal legal instruments. and ensures that any activities which may result in the destruction of critical habitat are managed to the extent required under SARA. Users must consult Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Projects Near Water webpage: www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/index-eng.html. Fisheries Protection Program: FisheriesProtection@dfo-mpo.gc.ca) in relation to the application of the Species at Risk Act and published Critical Habitat Orders (SARA Public Registry).

Polypropylene fell to 7,055 CNY/T on July 1, 2025, down 0.76% from the previous day. Over the past month, Polypropylene's price has risen 1.15%, but it is still 9.16% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. This dataset includes a chart with historical data for Polypropylene.

Surgical apparel manufacturers have been able to achieve some growth over the past five years, but several factors have tempered their expansion. While the aging baby boomer population has led to more surgeries, gradual demographic shifts aren't making up for the significant challenges from import competition that restrain pricing and limit profit growth. Overseas manufacturers have leveraged cheaper labor to undercut domestic companies and currently make up nearly half of the US market for surgical apparel. The pandemic led to an unprecedented spike in demand for surgical equipment. Still, most of this skyrocketing demand was represented by imports of disposable products from foreign competitors, particularly China and Mexico. Still, strong government support for manufacturers and consumers has helped sustain the industry's revenue. Overall, industry-wide revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 0.7% to $1.1 billion through the end of 2025, including an estimated 0.8% increase in 2025 alone. The abundance of imports has pressured the industry, leading to a loss of profit. Manufacturers have been pushed to keep their prices low to avoid losing business but have also had to manage surging wage costs and price hikes for their main inputs. Companies have invested in innovation, requiring investment in research and development to stand out and systems to add efficiency. Also, hospitals buy large quantities of surgical apparel products, giving them strong power when negotiating contract prices. These challenges have forced surgical apparel manufacturers to absorb heightened input costs, leading to a compression of profit and a slowdown in acquisition activity. The next five years will be much more lucrative for manufacturers. A declining Trade-Weighted Index (TWI) indicates that the US dollar is set to depreciate more than other major currencies, making US products comparatively cheaper. This will boost exports and alleviate domestic manufacturers from some import competition. Higher tariffs on key materials might increase costs, while import and reciprocal tariffs could shift demand towards US-manufactured goods. Growth in the older adult demographic will increase the number of surgeries to help demand remain strong, and industry revenue is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 1.8% to $1.2 billion through 2030.

Study design This study was conducted at Tokyo Shinagawa Hospital. The study protocol conformed to the ethical guidelines of the 1975 Declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the Ethics Committee at Tokyo Shinagawa Hospital (approval no. 20-A-34) prior to the start of the study. 685 HCW’s at Tokyo Shinagawa Hospital were included in this study after obtaining written informed consent. Sera were obtained from the subjects for the test of IgG against S protein’s receptor binding domain (IgG (RBD)) and IgG against nucleocapsid protein (IgG (N)) of SARS-CoV-2. None of them had been vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccine prior to the specimen collection. Subject information including age, sex, height, weight, job category in the hospital, history of SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosed by PCR, and co-morbidity were obtained and anonymized before analyses. Tokyo Shinagawa Hospital started accommodating COVID-19 patients in March 2020. All the HCW’s were provided with full personal protective equipment (PPE). Especially, all frontline HCW’s wore long-sleeved gowns, N95 respirators, gloves, goggles or face shields when treating patients. SARS-CoV-2 testing by PCR was promptly carried out for HCW’s who showed symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 including fever, dry cough, respiratory distress, loss of smell, or dysgeusia. Clinical and laboratory tests Sera from the subjects were drawn during March and April 2021 and were tested with IgG (RBD) and IgG (N) assays. The titer of IgG (RBD) was measured by an ARCHITECT SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant assay on Architect i2000 CS5100 (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL, USA) and that of IgG (N) was measured by an ARCHITECT SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay on Architect i2000 CS5100 (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL, USA). According to the package insert of IgG (RBD) assay, the cut-off index is 50.0 AU/mL and lowest concentration at which CV% is within 20% is 7.8 AU/mL. Narasimhan et al. reported that the specificity of the IgG (RBD) assay was 100% while sensitivity of the IgG (RBD) exceeded 96% after 15 days from symptom onset by applying the cut-off of 50.0 AU/mL [5]. According to the package insert of IgG (N) assay, the cut-off index is 1.4 S/C and CV% at a mean index of 0.04 S/C of 50 negative controls is 5.9%. According to a report by Bryan et al., sensitivity and specificity of the IgG (N) assay assessed with series of specimens from 125 patients were both 100% after 17 days from symptom onset with the cut-off of 1.4 S/C [6]. In addition to this cut-off, we used 0.2 S/C as one of the candidate cut-offs for the long-term assessment of the history of SARS-CoV-2 infection by referring to the preceding literatures [7, 8, 9, 10]. PCR was performed on QuantStudio™ 5 Real-Time PCR System (Thermo Fisher SCIENTIFIC, Waltham, MA, USA) which targets N1 and N2 regions of SARS-CoV-2. The PCR result was defined as positive when cycle threshold (Ct) was equal to or less than 40. Nasopharyngeal swabs for the PCR were collected by nurses who had ample experience of routine swab collections from fever outpatients and hospitalized patients. Statistical analysis We used JMP 15.1.0 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA) for Pearson’s chi-square test in Table 3 in which antibody titers below the cut-off were categorized as “0” while those equal to or above the cut-off were categorized as “1”. P-value of <0.01 was considered significant. Background: To control COVID-19 pandemic is of critical importance to the global public health. To capture the prevalence in an accurate and timely manner and to understand the mode of nosocomial infection are essential for its preventive measure. Methods: We recruited 685 healthcare workers (HCW’s) at Tokyo Shinagawa Hospital prior to the vaccination with COVID-19 vaccine. Sera of the subjects were tested by assays for the titer of IgG against S protein’s receptor binding domain (IgG (RBD)) or IgG against nucleocapsid protein (IgG (N)) of SARS-CoV-2. Together with PCR data, the positive rates by these methods were evaluated. Results: Overall positive rates among HCW’s by PCR, IgG (RBD), IgG (N) with a cut-off of 1.4 S/C (IgG (N)1.4), and IgG (N) with a cut-off of 0.2 S/C (IgG (N)0.2) were 3.5%, 9.5%, 6.1%, and 27.7%, respectively. Positive rates of HCW’s working in COVID-19 ward were significantly higher than those of HCW’s working in non-COVID-19 ward by all the four methods. Concordances of IgG (RBD), IgG (N)1.4, and IgG (N)0.2 against PCR were 97.1%, 71.4%, and 88.6%, respectively. By subtracting the positive rates of PCR from that of IgG (RBD), the rate of overall silent infection and that of HCW’s in COVID-19 ward were estimated to be 6.0% and 21.1%, respectively. Conclusions: For the prevention of nosocomial infection of SARS-CoV-2, identification of silent infection is essential. For the detection of ongoing infection, periodical screening with IgG (RBD) in addition to PCR would be an effective measure. For...

The medicinal application of pomegranate peel extract enriched with polyphenols (PPE) as a therapeutic strategy for managing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is still limited. Integrating pomegranate peel extract (PPE) into an effective nanocarrier system could enhance its mechanistic actions, potentially aiding in the remission of colitis. Therefore, this approach aimed to enhance PPE’s stability and bioavailability and investigate mitigating impact of pomegranate peel extract-loaded nanoparticles (PPE-NPs) in a colitis model. Colonic injury was induced by 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and efficacy of disease progression after oral administration of PPE-NPs for 14 days was assessed by evaluating clinical signs severity, antioxidant and inflammatory markers, expressions of endoplasmic reticulum associated genes and histopathological and immunostaining analysis in colonic tissues. Clinical signs and disease activity index were effectively reduced, and the levels of fecal calprotectin were decreased in groups treated with PPE-NPs compared to DSS group. The colitic group showed a significant increase (P