thanks for this.
they state #1
1. A broader review of existing scientific evidence clearly shows that approved masks with correct certification, and worn in compliance with guidelines, are an effective prevention of COVID-19 transmission.
but give no scientific documentation for the statement or what masks are correctly certified...
Yes, it looks like a hit job. I have not evaluated the primary literature they have referenced...
2. The manuscript misquotes and selectively cites published papers. References #16, 17, 25 and 26 are all misquoted.
#1 is BS
#3 is BS
4. The author submitted that he is currently affiliated to Stanford University, and VA Palo Alto Health Care System. However, both institutions have confirmed that Dr Vainshelboim ended his connection with them in 2016.
I checked his linked in page at the time. It now seems very slimmed down now compared to what I remember. The use of the Stanford relationship did not seem unreasonable, although it looked like he had moved on from there (but not 5 years, as I recall). Here is his research gate page, he is accomplished, and well published. No slouch. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Baruch-Vainshelboim