This paper presents a full 6 DOF microassembly system that features a novel remote center of motion configuration paired with advanced vision and illumination modules, as well as innovative user interaction concepts. Even though the semi-automatic design is primarily focused on the assembly of 3D bio-microrobotic devices out of individual 2.5D MEMS components, it can be configured for a large variety of assembly tasks. A gripper exchange mechanism allows reaching for parts with dimensions ranging from 5-800 m and a micro-fabricated platform featuring a special pattern provides a structured working area. The assembly of a miniature bio-microrobot is presented to demonstrate the dexterity and powerful features of this system. The underlying microassembly station combines multiple concepts for another step towards full manipulation automation in industrial and research applications.
The clinical courses of COVID-19 in children are often mild and may remain undiagnosed, but prolonged intestinal virus shedding has been documented, thus potentially enabling fecal–oral transmission. However, the infectious potential of SARS-CoV-2 viruses excreted with feces has remained unclear. Here, we investigated 247 stool specimens from 213 pediatric patients to assess the prevalence of intestinal SARS-CoV-2 shedding in hospitalized children without or with COVID-19 and determined the infectious capacity of stool-borne viruses. Upon RT-qPCR screening, the infectivity of virus-positive samples was tested in cell culture using the Vero-E6 permissive cell line. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected by RT-qPCR in 32 (13%) stool specimens, but the analysis of virus-positive samples in cell culture revealed no cytopathic effects attributable to SARS-CoV-2-related cell damage. Our findings do not support the notion of potential fecal–oral SARS-CoV-2 spreading, thus questioning the role of hygienic measures designed to prevent this mode of viral transmission.
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