@article {pmid40671971,
year = {2025},
author = {Gandhi, AP and Yadav, P and Kapoor, A and Ramasamy, N and Kaviprawin, M and Saravanan, K and Yadav, A and Choudhary, A and Joseph, FK},
title = {Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines Among Pregnant Women in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {6},
pages = {e86115},
pmid = {40671971},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) documented an estimated decrease in life expectancy of 1.6 years globally. Pregnant women exhibited higher infection rates and experienced prolonged illness durations, often exceeding four months. COVID-19 was also related to adverse maternal morbidity and near-miss incidents. In India, although there are studies on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines among the overall population, the effectiveness in preventing infections among pregnant women is not well documented. The present meta-analysis pooled the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine among pregnant women in India. The search was conducted among the major electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane (date of search: November 30, 2024). Screening, risk of bias (ROB), and data extraction of the studies were undertaken by two independent reviewers, with adjudication of conflicts by a third reviewer. We described the pooled effectiveness of vaccination on adverse events following immunization (AEFI) and fetomaternal outcomes using RStudio (Posit Software, Boston, MA). The I[2] statistic assessed the heterogeneity among studies. We conducted a Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment to ascertain the certainty of the results. Database search yielded 215 unique articles. We included nine eligible studies for the analysis, including 5,630 pregnant women. Covishield and Covaxin were the vaccines taken by them. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for preterm labor in mothers with COVID-19 vaccination was 0.62 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49-0.79), with low certainty. The OR for low birth weight was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.06-13.71). AEFI rates were similar between the vaccinated pregnant and non-pregnant women (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.00-268.11). No studies on efficacy and effectiveness could be found. Our pooled analysis concluded that COVID-19 vaccination among pregnant women in India is not associated with the increased risk of AEFIs or maternal or fetal outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40671275,
year = {2025},
author = {Du, X and Jia, J and Duan, T and Tao, X and Li, J and Yalikun, S and Wu, H and Zhou, Z and Ren, Z},
title = {Trend of Chinese adolescent anxiety symptoms before and after COVID-19: A cross-temporal meta-analysis with segmented regression.},
journal = {Journal of research on adolescence : the official journal of the Society for Research on Adolescence},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {e70046},
doi = {10.1111/jora.70046},
pmid = {40671275},
issn = {1532-7795},
support = {22&ZD187//the Major Program of the National Social Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Adolescent ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology ; China/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {Adolescent anxiety symptoms are a global concern, and studying their trends and influencing factors in China is essential due to unique cultural and social dynamics impacting mental health. This study presents a cross-temporal meta-analysis of research employing the GAD-7 to assess anxiety symptoms among Chinese adolescents. Systematic searches were conducted across databases including CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Wiley, resulting in the inclusion of 66 articles (67 studies) spanning data collection from 2016 to 2023. The findings revealed that: (1) Anxiety symptoms among Chinese adolescents showed a slight decrease from 2016 to 2020, which was not statistically significant, but then experienced a significant increase from 2021 to 2023. (2) Throughout the period, female adolescents had significantly higher increases in anxiety symptoms compared to males. Clinically anxious adolescents had a slightly more pronounced decline in anxiety symptoms from 2016 to 2020 compared to those with subclinical anxiety, but this difference was not significant from 2021 to 2023. (3) Social change factors including social connectedness, socioeconomic conditions, and social threats did not significantly impact adolescent anxiety symptoms in China from 2016 to 2020, and this pattern continued from 2021 to 2023. This research advances the understanding of the mechanisms driving adolescent anxiety symptoms in China and offers a foundation for targeted prevention and intervention strategies, emphasizing the importance of addressing emerging stressors in mental health policies.},
}

Adolescent
Female
Humans
Male
*Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology
China/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
East Asian People

@article {pmid40671020,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Li, X and Hui, H and Yang, D},
title = {Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine for post-COVID-19 syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {801},
pmid = {40671020},
issn = {1479-5876},
mesh = {Humans ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Treatment Outcome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Fatigue/drug therapy ; Cough/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-COVID-19 syndrome, characterized by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea, cough, insomnia, and exercise intolerance, poses a significant challenge to global healthcare systems. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used to manage post-viral syndromes, but high-quality evidence for its effectiveness in post-COVID-19 recovery is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in treating post-COVID-19 syndrome through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: Five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and CNKI) were systematically searched up to March 15, 2025. RCTs comparing CHM with placebo or usual care in patients with confirmed post-COVID-19 syndrome were included. Primary outcomes were symptom severity measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); secondary outcomes included relief rates of cough, fatigue, chest tightness, dyspnea, insomnia, and exercise intolerance. Data were pooled using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity was assessed using I[2] statistics.

RESULTS: Ten RCTs involving 2401 patients were included. CHM showed a greater reduction in VAS scores compared to controls (MD = -1.03; 95% CI -2.10 to 0.03; P = 0.0577), with higher heterogeneity (I[2] = 92%). Although this result did not reach conventional statistical significance, it suggests a potentially meaningful clinical trend favoring CHM. Subgroup analysis indicated both short-term and long-term CHM treatments improved VAS scores, with a stronger effect in long-term treatment. CHM significantly improved chest tightness (RR = 1.40; 95% CI 1.21-1.61; P < 0.0001; I[2] = 0%) and insomnia (RR = 1.23; 95% CI 1.03-1.47; P = 0.0216; I[2] = 0%). A trend toward improvement was observed in fatigue (RR = 1.58, 95% CI 0.95-2.64; P = 0.0781) and dyspnea (RR = 1.39, 95% CI 0.99-1.95; P = 0.0554), although these results did not reach statistical significance. No significant difference was observed in terms of 6-min walking distance (MD = 13.95 m, 95% CI -11.64 to 39.55; P = 0.2853). Adverse event rates were comparable between the herbal and control groups (RR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.49-1.07; P = 0.1052).

CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis indicates that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may help relieve certain post-COVID-19 symptoms, especially chest tightness and insomnia. Trends toward benefit were also noted for fatigue and dyspnea, though without statistical significance. Given the non-significant VAS results and high heterogeneity, these findings should be interpreted cautiously. Further large-scale, high-quality trials are needed to validate these outcomes and optimize treatment strategies.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/home , CRD420251016442.},
}

Humans
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods/adverse effects
*COVID-19/complications
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Treatment Outcome
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Fatigue/drug therapy
Cough/drug therapy
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40670321,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Q and Jiao, W and Li, X and Liang, L},
title = {An Overview of Ophthalmic Complications Associated With Emerging/Re-Emerging Viruses: Focus on ZIKV, DENV, SARS-CoV-2, and MPXV.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {e70056},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70056},
pmid = {40670321},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {YDZJ202501ZYTS057//Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/virology/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Zika Virus Infection/complications/virology ; Zika Virus/pathogenicity ; Dengue Virus/pathogenicity ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/virology/complications ; *Dengue/virology/complications ; *Eye Diseases/virology ; *Eye Infections, Viral/virology ; Eye/virology/pathology ; },
abstract = {Infections caused by emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens are currently known as a significant global public health issue, affecting various human organ systems such as the ocular system. Several emerging and re-emerging viral infections, such as those caused by Zika virus (ZIKV), dengue virus (DENV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and monkeypox virus (MPXV), have been involved in the development of various ophthalmic disorders including uveitis, conjunctivitis, retinitis, optic neuritis, and more severe vision-threatening complications. The present review comprehensively describes the ophthalmic manifestations linked to these viruses, with a primary focus on their underlying pathogenesis, diverse clinical presentations, and the intricate potential mechanisms of viral invasion into ocular tissues. Describing the ocular involvement of emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens, particularly how they target and affect the ocular system, is critical for early diagnosis, appropriate management, and reducing long-term visual manifestations in affected patients. This review aims to address existing gaps in clinical knowledge and support timely ophthalmological management during emerging viral outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/virology/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Zika Virus Infection/complications/virology
Zika Virus/pathogenicity
Dengue Virus/pathogenicity
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/virology/complications
*Dengue/virology/complications
*Eye Diseases/virology
*Eye Infections, Viral/virology
Eye/virology/pathology

@article {pmid40670058,
year = {2025},
author = {Aretouli, E and Malik, M and Widmann, C and Parker, AM and Oh, ES and Vannorsdall, TD},
title = {Cognitive and mental health outcomes in long covid.},
journal = {BMJ (Clinical research ed.)},
volume = {390},
number = {},
pages = {e081349},
doi = {10.1136/bmj-2024-081349},
pmid = {40670058},
issn = {1756-1833},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Mental Health ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Anxiety/etiology ; Risk Factors ; *Depression/etiology ; },
abstract = {Roughly one in five adults who meet criteria for long covid present with objective or subjective cognitive dysfunction or elevated symptoms of depression or anxiety lasting ≥12 weeks from an acute covid illness. These neuropsychiatric sequelae have considerable functional consequences at the level of the individual, society, and the broader economy. Neuropsychiatric long covid symptoms are thought to be causally diverse, and a range of risk factors as well as biological, psychological, and environmental mechanisms have been hypothesized to contribute to symptom development and persistence. When present, objective cognitive deficits tend to be modest for most individuals, with some evidence suggesting increased risk of dysfunction and decline specifically for older adults with a history of severe acute illness. Longitudinal data suggest a delayed emergence of psychiatric symptoms may occur in the weeks and months after an acute covid illness. Emerging research points to the early recovery period as a potential window of opportunity for intervention to alter patient trajectories, though evidence based treatment remains lacking.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Mental Health
*Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Anxiety/etiology
Risk Factors
*Depression/etiology

@article {pmid40669792,
year = {2025},
author = {Liang, Z and Shan, G and Shan, S and Ding, Z and Zhang, J and Chu, B},
title = {Comprehensive review on emerging nanotechnologies for combating COVID-19 and future pandemic preparedness.},
journal = {International journal of pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {125970},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.125970},
pmid = {40669792},
issn = {1873-3476},
abstract = {Since its emergence in China in December 2019, the outbreak of COVID-19 caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has escalated into a global pandemic emergency, demanding immediate and coordinated international action. This comprehensive review offers a broad, interdisciplinary perspective, exploring how advancements in nanotechnologies can aid in the battle against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, with an emphasis on future pandemic preparedness. By analyzing the virus's life cycle, we identify key points where nanotechnology can be effective. Nanoparticles (NPs) can inactivate viruses through photothermal or photocatalysis-induced reactive oxygen species generation, offering potential healthcare applications. Nanotechnology can also revolutionize diagnostics by creating simple, rapid, and cost-effective assays for SARS-CoV-2 detection. Additionally, it can facilitate targeted drug delivery to the lungs, disrupting the interaction between ACE2 receptors and the viral S protein. Furthermore, the exemplary innovative strategies pertinent to nanomaterials in antiviral research on SARS-CoV-2 are also concisely recapped with a primary focus on interrupting the virus's life cycle to effectively combat it. In conclusion, emerging nanotechnologies stands as a vital tool in the fight against COVID-19 and will be indispensable in preparing for and mitigating the impact of future pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid40669421,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, Q and Li, W and Liu, H and Xue, Y and Huang, K and Pourghadamyari, H and Liu, Z},
title = {Respiratory emerging viruses and drug resistance in lung cancer: challenges and new perspectives in treatment.},
journal = {Molecular aspects of medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {},
pages = {101383},
doi = {10.1016/j.mam.2025.101383},
pmid = {40669421},
issn = {1872-9452},
abstract = {Emerging viral pathogens, particularly those targeting the respiratory system such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus, pose significant challenges for patients with lung cancer. These patients show increased susceptibility to serious infections caused by these viruses as a result of immunosuppression from various therapies such as immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted agents. Respiratory viral infections can induce tumor progression and drug resistance through affecting the tumor microenvironment (TME), modulating immune checkpoints, or interfering with therapeutic efficacy. The present review discusses the reciprocal interactions between these viral pathogens and lung cancer, underscoring mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses affect the lung cancer TME promoting tumor progression, immune evasion, and ultimately, resistance to anti-cancer therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Sections discussed in this study include: (i) increased susceptibility to viral infections, (ii) virus-induced modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and (iii) mechanisms of therapy resistance. This review also addresses emerging strategies, such as oncolytic virotherapy, as potential candidates for lung cancer treatment. It aims to provide new perspectives on therapeutic optimization for patients with lung cancer in the context of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses, by reviewing evidence from virology, oncology, and immunology.},
}

@article {pmid40668847,
year = {2025},
author = {Shaeri, S and Considine, J and Dainty, KN and Olasveengen, TM and Morrison, LJ},
title = {The role of contributing factors, triggers, and prodromal symptoms in the etiological classification of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest; A scoping review.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {7},
pages = {e0327651},
pmid = {40668847},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest/etiology/classification ; *Prodromal Symptoms ; Emergency Medical Services ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Current Utstein etiological classifications for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) are heterogenous and inaccurate when compared with robust sources. This heterogeneity may influence reporting incidence and outcomes and patient enrollment in observational studies and clinical trials. Circumstance-related factors may contribute to cardiac arrest; however, the role of these factors in improving the etiological classification of OHCA is unknown.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review was proposed to explore current evidence to identify the role of contributing factors, triggers, and prodromal symptoms of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the reported etiology of cardiac arrest based on emergency medical services data, medical records, or autopsy reports.

METHOD: We searched Medline, Embase, and EMB review-Cochrane databases from 1946 to 2024. Studies were selected if the included population was adults with OHCA for whom the initial etiology was assigned, and any contributing factors, triggers, or prodromal symptoms of OHCA were reported. A descriptive review of the included studies was conducted.

RESULT: The search yielded 24,833 citations. Seventy studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies were published predominantly in Europe and Asia between 2010 and 2024 and classified as contributing factors (n = 24), exercise (n = 13), environmental triggers (n = 24), and prodromal symptoms (n = 9). The etiology of cardiac arrest initially assigned to cardiac or obvious non-cardiac classification may be precipitated by seizures (n = 8), trauma (n = 7), alcohol or drug intoxication (n = 6), Covid-19 infection (n = 5), myocardial infarction (n = 4), suicide (n = 4), antipsychotic medications (n = 4), and illicit drug use (n = 3). Exercise and environmental factors (e.g., particulate matter (PM) 2.5µ and ambient temperature) may trigger cardiac arrest predominantly due to cardiac etiologies. Based on EMS data, approximately 50% of patients with OHCA experienced symptoms prior to cardiac arrest which suggested cardiac and non-cardiac etiologies.

CONCLUSION: Many circumstance-related factors may directly or indirectly contribute to cardiac arrest etiology classification. Listing these factors in the reporting template may help prehospital personnel and data abstractors gather enough information to identify more accurately the etiology of OHCA.},
}

Humans
*Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest/etiology/classification
*Prodromal Symptoms
Emergency Medical Services
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40668418,
year = {2025},
author = {Panja, A and Manna, S and Chatterjee, M and Ghosh, T and Bid, S and Choudhury, SM},
title = {Diabetes Mellitus, a Leading Comorbidity in COVID-19: an Insight on Pathophysiology, Molecular Interactions, and Comprehensive Management.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {82},
number = {9},
pages = {388},
pmid = {40668418},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/physiopathology ; *Diabetes Mellitus/physiopathology/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Risk Factors ; Comorbidity ; *Diabetes Complications ; Hyperglycemia ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has triggered a global pandemic with widespread disruption. Its mortality rate is notably higher in individuals with coexisting non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus (DM). Despite extensive efforts, there remains no definitive treatment for COVID-19, making it imperative to protect populations with pre-existing risk factors that predispose them to severe or fatal outcomes. In this systematic literature review, we delineate the key biological and clinical risk factors-specifically, chronic hyperglycemia, endothelial dysfunction, and dysregulated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression-that may exacerbate COVID-19 severity in diabetic patients. We explore how immune and inflammatory pathways intersect with COVID-19 pathogenesis and contribute to differential clinical manifestations in diabetic versus non-diabetic individuals. Particular emphasis is placed on the pathophysiological mechanisms facilitating viral entry and propagation in diabetic patients. Currently, insulin is the primary therapeutic modality for managing acute hyperglycemia in COVID-19, while sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are generally discouraged due to potential adverse outcomes. As existing evidence is largely preliminary, further research is essential to establish optimized treatment strategies for this vulnerable patient population.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/physiopathology
*Diabetes Mellitus/physiopathology/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2/physiology
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Risk Factors
Comorbidity
*Diabetes Complications
Hyperglycemia

@article {pmid40667972,
year = {2025},
author = {Vimieiro, VL and Vimieiro, CBS and Oliveira, AC},
title = {Reuse of N95 respirators: a systematic review on effectiveness and occupational safety for healthcare professionals.},
journal = {Revista gaucha de enfermagem},
volume = {46},
number = {},
pages = {e20240312},
doi = {10.1590/1983-1447.2025.20240312.en},
pmid = {40667972},
issn = {1983-1447},
mesh = {Humans ; *Equipment Reuse ; *N95 Respirators/standards ; *Health Personnel ; *Occupational Health ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To analyze the evidence on the effectiveness of extended use and reuse protocols of N95 respirators, with a focus on the occupational safety of healthcare professionals.

METHOD: Systematic review of articles published between 2003 and 2024 in the Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, Embase, and CENTRAL databases. Experimental, quasi-experimental and observational studies were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Narrative synthesis was used to present the results.

RESULTS: The review encompassed 21 articles. The most investigated aspect was sealing (71.4%), followed by structural integrity (33.3%), filtration efficiency (19.0%), and, finally, tensile testing of the fastening straps (4.8%). Damage such as dirt accumulation, broken nose clips, and strap breakage, as well as degradation of elastic resistance, were observed, leading to inadequate fit and reduced filtration capacity. Four studies were classified as high quality, while 17 were of moderate quality.

CONCLUSION: Extended use and reuse of N95 respirators are not recommended, as they increase occupational risk. Although they maintain adequate filtration efficiency in different contexts, this is not sufficient to ensure user protection. When unavoidable, strict evidence-based protocols must be followed.},
}

Humans
*Equipment Reuse
*N95 Respirators/standards
*Health Personnel
*Occupational Health
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid40518033,
year = {2025},
author = {Ong, B and Conda, LE and Mendoza, TP and Hernandez, AV and Cho, SM},
title = {Sex differences on cerebrovascular complications in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: a meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of stroke and cerebrovascular diseases : the official journal of National Stroke Association},
volume = {34},
number = {8},
pages = {108377},
doi = {10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2025.108377},
pmid = {40518033},
issn = {1532-8511},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy ; Male ; Female ; Sex Factors ; Risk Factors ; *Hospitalization ; Risk Assessment ; Middle Aged ; Incidence ; Aged ; *Hemorrhagic Stroke/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy ; *Ischemic Stroke/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Health Status Disparities ; *Intracranial Hemorrhages/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Sex Distribution ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although pre-pandemic data suggest a higher stroke incidence in females, recent evidence suggests COVID-19-related strokes disproportionately affect males. Prior studies often analyzed stroke as a composite outcome without stratifying by biologically distinct subtypes. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated sex differences in the risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke among hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE and six additional databases from inception to December 2024. We included observational studies enrolling adults (≥18 years) with active COVID-19 infection, hospitalized, and reporting sex-stratified stroke outcomes. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) for each stroke subtype were calculated using random-effects models. We defined RR as the ratio of the cumulative incidence of type of stroke in males over the cumulative incidence of the same type of stroke in females.

RESULTS: Seventeen studies comprising 135,481 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (mean age 63.3 years; 48.7% male) met inclusion criteria. Stroke occurred in 1,509 patients (1.1%), with ischemic stroke accounting for 53.9% of cases, unspecified stroke for 30.1%, and hemorrhagic stroke for 16.1%. Males accounted for a greater proportion of stroke cases across all subtypes: 63.1% of ischemic, 69.0% of hemorrhagic, and 59.0% of unspecified strokes. The estimated prevalence of ischemic stroke was 17% in males (95% CI, 15%-20%) versus 9% in females (95% CI, 7%-11%), and hemorrhagic stroke occurred in 4% of males (95% CI, 2%-6%) versus 1% of females (95% CI, 0%-2%). Unspecified stroke occurred in 2% of both sexes (95% CI, 0%-3%). Pooled risk estimates showed that males had a significantly higher risk of any stroke (RR = 1.25; 95% CI,1.05-1.50), driven by an elevated risk of hemorrhagic stroke (RR = 1.64; 95% CI, 1.06-2.54). The increased risk of ischemic stroke in males did not reach statistical significance (RR = 1.18; 95% CI, 0.97-1.44).

CONCLUSIONS: This is the first meta-analysis to stratify stroke risk by sex and stroke subtype in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Males were at significantly higher risk for hemorrhagic stroke, suggesting possible sex-specific vulnerability that warrants further studies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy
Male
Female
Sex Factors
Risk Factors
*Hospitalization
Risk Assessment
Middle Aged
Incidence
Aged
*Hemorrhagic Stroke/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy
*Ischemic Stroke/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Health Status Disparities
*Intracranial Hemorrhages/epidemiology/diagnosis
Sex Distribution

@article {pmid40484195,
year = {2025},
author = {Bigley, AN and Raushel, FM},
title = {The use of phosphotriesterase in the synthesis of enantiomerically pure ProTide prodrugs.},
journal = {Chemico-biological interactions},
volume = {418},
number = {},
pages = {111597},
doi = {10.1016/j.cbi.2025.111597},
pmid = {40484195},
issn = {1872-7786},
mesh = {*Prodrugs/chemical synthesis/chemistry/metabolism ; Stereoisomerism ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/chemical synthesis/metabolism/pharmacology ; *Phosphoric Triester Hydrolases/metabolism/chemistry ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; ProTides ; },
abstract = {Outbreaks of viral diseases, such as COVID-19, and chronic viral diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis, have highlighted the need to develop antiviral medications. ProTide nucleotide analogs such as Remdesivir and Sofosbuvir have become an important class of antivirals. The ProTides are phosphonamidate prodrugs, which contain an alanine ester and a phenyl group esterified to a chiral phosphorus of a nucleotide analog. The resulting triester effectively masks the charge on the phosphate moiety to facilitate entry into the cell and are much more effective than the corresponding nucleoside analogs. Once in the cell, the ProTides require activation by cellular enzymes to remove the masking groups on the phosphorus. The activation in the cell is dependent on the stereochemistry of the phosphorus center with the effectiveness of a given isomer differing between tissue types. The ProTides are produced as single isomers at the phosphorus center by chiral chromatography or selective crystallization, but in many cases only a single isomer can be produced, potentially limiting the effectiveness of the ProTides. The phosphotriesterase (PTE) from Brevundimonas diminuta is well known for its ability to selectively hydrolyze chiral phosphotriesters. The extensive directed evolution of PTE has led to the identification of variants that can selectively hydrolyze the phosphonamidate precursor of the ProTides, allowing the preparation of optically pure ProTides. Importantly, the variant In1W-PTE allows the isolation of the pure RP-isomer while G60A-PTE and W131M-PTE allow the isolation of the pure SP-isomer, thereby facilitating the efficient preparation of either isomer of the final ProTide.},
}

*Prodrugs/chemical synthesis/chemistry/metabolism
Stereoisomerism
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/chemical synthesis/metabolism/pharmacology
*Phosphoric Triester Hydrolases/metabolism/chemistry
Humans
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
ProTides

@article {pmid40667951,
year = {2025},
author = {Sawada, NO and Reis, TMD and Freitas, PS and Moraes, CM and Peloso-Carvalho, BM and Assunção, MRS and Horvath, CMSP and Silva, RS and Mendes, KDS},
title = {Prevalence of systemic complications of COVID-19 in critically ill patients: systematic review with meta-analysis.},
journal = {Revista latino-americana de enfermagem},
volume = {33},
number = {},
pages = {e4608},
doi = {10.1590/1518-8345.7568.4608},
pmid = {40667951},
issn = {1518-8345},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Critical Illness ; Prevalence ; Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology/etiology ; },
abstract = {to identify the prevalence of systemic complications of COVID-19 in critically ill patients, to estimate the clinical conditions that may have a worse prognosis when associated with COVID-19. systematic review with meta-analysis of observational studies, based on the recommendations of the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis for systematic reviews of prevalence and incidence, in six databases and grey literature, period 2020 to 2024, languages Portuguese, English and Spanish. We identified 2393 publications. The selection, data extraction and methodological evaluation of the studies were carried out by two independent researchers. The meta-analysis was performed using the Freeman Tukey transformational random-effects statistical method. ten papers were included. The meta-analysis of seven papers dealing with respiratory complications due to COVID-19 demonstrated a mean prevalence of 42%, (95% CI 0.2-0.66) with heterogeneity I2=97.4; the meta-analysis of 4 papers involving the prevalence of neurological complications due to COVID-19 showed an average prevalence of 62%, (95% CI 0.49- 0.74) with heterogeneity I2=87.4 and the meta-analysis of 8 studies showed a prevalence of mortality due to COVID-19 of 33%, (95% CI 0.23- 0.44) with heterogeneity I2=93.6. respiratory and neurological complications were the most prevalent in the reviewed studies. PROSPERO Registration: CRD42020214617.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Critical Illness
Prevalence
Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology/etiology

@article {pmid40667491,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, J and Chen, M and Wu, H and Cai, H and Tu, S and Lee, E and Zhang, X},
title = {An effective short form of the 20-item University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale version 3: item response theory and network psychometrics.},
journal = {General psychiatry},
volume = {38},
number = {4},
pages = {e102055},
pmid = {40667491},
issn = {2517-729X},
abstract = {Loneliness is a complex and usually unpleasant emotional response to isolation, which has been considered the latest global health epidemic exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, affecting nearly two-thirds of older adults. Some profound health implications carried by loneliness include depression, cognitive impairment, hypertension and frailty. Across the world, there is no consensus definition of loneliness, and its measure is based on the phenomenological perspective of the individual. The 20-item University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale version 3 (UCLA-20) is the most common measure. This scale demonstrates acceptable psychometric properties but is too long and complex for a phone interview. This paper addresses the increasing need to shorten this scale by adopting classical item response theory and network psychometrics to advance scale development. Through an item reduction analysis, we trimmed the original scale into an effective short form, which is as valid as the original one. With respondents' time at a premium in most research nowadays, this short-form scale is an efficient and practical alternative to the original UCLA-20.},
}

@article {pmid40666612,
year = {2025},
author = {Zabłocka-Żytka, L and Lahad, M},
title = {The BASIC Ph model in communication and building individual and group resilience in crises. An example of use during the refugee crisis in Poland.},
journal = {Postepy psychiatrii neurologii},
volume = {34},
number = {2},
pages = {93-98},
pmid = {40666612},
issn = {2720-5371},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Everyday difficulties, but also new threats experienced by individuals and whole societies, are sources of stress that, due to their intensity, occurrence over time and in the absence of adequate support, can trigger crises and traumatic experiences. Examples of the latter are COVID-19 or military action in Europe, among other things, and the related wave of refugees who have sought refuge in many Western European countries since February 2022 in particular. This is why it is so important to cultivate resilience and the ability to cope effectively cope with stress not only at the individual level but also in entire social groups, and to nurture the resources not only of those already experiencing crises and mental health disorders, but also of entire populations.

VIEWS: The BASIC Ph model devised by Prof. Mooli Lahad (2013) is a tool for effective crisis communication and thus building individual and social resilience. It has been successfully implemented for several decades in the process of educating individuals and social groups about stress and forming new, effective ways of coping with it, thereby building mental resilience in situations such as natural disasters, epidemics, wars, migration, and refugee crises.

CONCLUSIONS: The article presents the application of the BASIC Ph model in the example of the refugee crisis and its use for people experiencing the trauma of war and forced migration, as well as citizens of host and migrant-supporting countries.},
}

@article {pmid40666529,
year = {2025},
author = {Nakarin, F and Sprenger, KG},
title = {A paradigm shift in simulating affinity maturation to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1627674},
pmid = {40666529},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antibody Affinity/immunology ; *B-Lymphocytes/immunology ; *Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell/immunology ; Germinal Center/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Animals ; Models, Immunological ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; },
abstract = {Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) offer a promising route to protect against rapidly evolving pathogens such as HIV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, yet eliciting them through vaccination remains a significant challenge. A key to this problem lies in understanding antibody affinity maturation (AM), the evolutionary process within germinal centers (GCs) that shapes the B cell and thus antibody response. Traditionally, AM has been viewed as favoring the selection of B cells with the highest-affinity B cell receptors (BCRs) through competitive interplays. However, emerging evidence suggests that GCs are more permissive, allowing B cells with a broad range of affinities to persist, thereby promoting clonal diversity and enabling the rare emergence of bnAbs. This review reassesses affinity-based selection models and proposes a new paradigm that integrates multifactorial processes, including stochastic B cell decisions within GC dynamics, antigen extraction efficiency influenced by probabilistic bond rupture, and avidity-driven BCR binding alterations and representations on multivalent antigens. We highlight how advanced AM simulations that move beyond affinity as the sole determinant provide a more realistic and predictive representation of AM, marking a major step forward in developing strategies to promote effective immune responses against highly mutable, complex antigens.},
}

Humans
*Antibody Affinity/immunology
*B-Lymphocytes/immunology
*Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell/immunology
Germinal Center/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
Animals
Models, Immunological
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology

@article {pmid40665593,
year = {2025},
author = {Cao, BK and Hanifa, RS and Nguyen, TP and Postma, MJ and van der Schans, J},
title = {Economic evaluations of vaccines against respiratory infections in adults in Southeast Asia: A systematic review.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2528409},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2528409},
pmid = {40665593},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Asia, Southeastern/epidemiology ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/economics ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/economics/administration & dosage ; *Influenza Vaccines/economics/administration & dosage ; *Pneumococcal Vaccines/economics/administration & dosage ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/economics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vaccination/economics ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {Respiratory infections significantly impact adult health in Southeast Asia, yet vaccine coverage remains low. This systematic review evaluated the economic evaluations of vaccines targeting respiratory infections in the region. A comprehensive search was conducted across several databases, including MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, NHSEED, CINAHL, EconLit, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, up to April 24, 2024. Nineteen eligible studies were identified, focusing primarily on influenza (8 studies) and COVID-19 vaccines (7 studies), with fewer studies on pneumococcal (2 studies), varicella (1 study), and pertussis (1 study) vaccines. Overall, influenza, COVID-19 (boosters), and pneumococcal vaccines were found to be cost-effective or highly cost-effective compared to no-vaccine or no-booster scenarios. The only study on maternal pertussis vaccination found it not to be cost-effective. The most common parameters considered in sensitivity analyses were vaccine efficacy and discount rates. This review highlights the economic evaluations of influenza, COVID-19, and pneumococcal vaccines in Southeast Asia, providing essential evidence to guide vaccine policy. Future studies should address limitations in model selection, incorporate herd immunity, ensure the model validation (i.e. validity of cost and benefit measurements), and explore the cost-effectiveness of other vaccines across the region.},
}

Adult
Humans
Asia, Southeastern/epidemiology
Cost-Benefit Analysis
*COVID-19/prevention & control/economics
*COVID-19 Vaccines/economics/administration & dosage
*Influenza Vaccines/economics/administration & dosage
*Pneumococcal Vaccines/economics/administration & dosage
*Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/economics
SARS-CoV-2
Vaccination/economics
Vaccine Efficacy

@article {pmid40664036,
year = {2025},
author = {Al-Khrasani, M and Essmat, N and Boldizsár, I and Varga, BT and Chalabiani, Y and Abbood, SK and Ernyey, AJ and Király, K and Máté, A and Riba, P and Timár, J and Gyertyán, I and Miklya, I and Parenti, C and Pasquinucci, L and Ágg, B and Fürst, S and Ferdinandy, P and Vizi, ES and Harsing, LG},
title = {Do vitamins halt the COVID-19-evoked pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in the development of neuropathic pain?.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {189},
number = {},
pages = {118346},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2025.118346},
pmid = {40664036},
issn = {1950-6007},
abstract = {Neuropathic pain (NP), a disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system, causes a high socioeconomic burden on healthcare systems and society; yet, its management has not been fully solved. Post COVID-19, with sequelae of the somatosensory system, further increases the number of individuals with chronic pain, thus further exacerbating the social burden related to NP. The pro-inflammatory mediators, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, are massively released in patients with COVID-19 and are known to be involved in the pathomechanisms of NP, particularly in relation to neuronal sensitization. Specifically, the release of large amounts of these pro-inflammatory cytokines from immune and non-immune effector cells during the acute and post COVID-19 phases prone to have substantial involvement in the development of post COVID-19 NP. Several preclinical and clinical studies have shown that vitamins' supplementation, namely vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12, C, D, E, and K can attenuate the enhanced release of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. The early supplementation of these vitamins may mitigate the neuronal sensitization evoked by cytokine storm due to COVID-19 or other viruses. This strategy may provide a novel approach to prevent the development of post COVID-19 NP. This review highlights the mechanisms by which COVID-19 can induce NP and how vitamins may help to alleviate these post COVID-19 sequelae.},
}

@article {pmid40663038,
year = {2025},
author = {Avais, LS and Pacheco, EC and Gomes, LPOZ and Baldani, MH and Martins, CM and Waldman, EA and Gonzalez, JPJ and Steen, TY and Borges, PKO},
title = {Oral Manifestations in the Post COVID-19 Condition: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {e70057},
pmid = {40663038},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; //Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/virology ; *Mouth Diseases/epidemiology/etiology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Taste Disorders/epidemiology/virology ; Prevalence ; Xerostomia ; },
abstract = {Post-COVID-19 condition, or Long COVID, is characterised by symptoms persisting or emerging beyond 12 weeks after acute infection. Among over 200 reported symptoms, oral manifestations such as taste loss and dry mouth have been identified. This systematic review reports the frequency and characteristics of these symptoms. Registered in PROSPERO and following PRISMA guidelines, the review included observational studies on COVID-19-positive adults presenting oral symptoms in the post-COVID-19 condition. A search in six databases (Medline/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, SCOPUS, and LILACS) was conducted in January 2024. Risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tools, and certainty of evidence via GRADE. A meta-analysis using the inverse variance method estimated oral symptom prevalence. Of 4552 articles, 107 were included. Taste dysfunction persisted in 8% (95% CI 6%-10%) of patients beyond 12 weeks. Combined taste and smell alterations had a prevalence of 17% (95% CI 13%-21%). Less frequent symptoms included hyposalivation, periodontitis, mouth ulcers, tongue mucosal changes, facial tingling, sensitivity in the trigeminal nerve, difficulty swallowing, and lesions in the hard palate. Taste alterations were the most commonly reported symptom, underscoring the need for clinical recognition and appropriate management by oral health professionals. Additionally, the wide range of other oral manifestations highlights the necessity for further research to better understand their prevalence, underlying mechanisms, and clinical implications in post-COVID-19 patients.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/virology
*Mouth Diseases/epidemiology/etiology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Taste Disorders/epidemiology/virology
Prevalence
Xerostomia

@article {pmid40662947,
year = {2025},
author = {Margerison, CE and Joachim, GE and Michling, TR and Johnson, CY},
title = {Platform-Mediated Gig Work and Health: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {American journal of industrial medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ajim.70007},
pmid = {40662947},
issn = {1097-0274},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: We sought to assess the size, depth, and rigor of empirical literature on platform-mediated gig work and health.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed studies from January 1, 2000, through May 29, 2024, that examined platform-mediated gig work and any measure of physical or mental health. We abstracted country, study design, population, sample size, exposure measure, and health outcome. We assessed whether the study addressed any of three potential mechanisms connecting gig work and health: occupational hazards, social determinants, or the specific nature of digital platforms.

RESULTS: We identified 45 total studies examining transportation safety (n = 12), work-related injuries (n = 4), other physical health outcomes (n = 5), COVID-19 vulnerabilities (n = 10), mental health (n = 10), mental well-being (n = 18), and safety (n = 12). These categories were not mutually exclusive. Cross-sectional and qualitative studies identified physical and mental health problems among gig workers, but the literature lacks study population-representative designs, prospective data, comparisons of gig workers to other similar non-gig workers (i.e., external comparison groups), and validated measures of physical health.

CONCLUSIONS: Platform-mediated gig work may have unique impacts on health, but causal evidence is lacking. Future research should examine how the nature of digital platforms-specifically, algorithmic control, ratings, and surveillance-impacts health of workers.},
}

@article {pmid38778600,
year = {2025},
author = {Bjørklund, G and Drapak, I and Zimenkovsky, B and Shanaida, M and Kobylinska, L and Denefil, O and Lysiuk, R and Pokryshko, O and Logoyda, L and Oliinyk, P and Shanaida, V and Semenova, Y},
title = {The Role of Vitamins, Magnesium, and Trace Elements in COVID-19 Treatment and Post-COVID-19 Rehabilitation: An Updated Overview.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {32},
number = {16},
pages = {3134-3154},
pmid = {38778600},
issn = {1875-533X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Trace Elements/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation ; *Magnesium/therapeutic use ; *Vitamins/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Dietary Supplements ; Micronutrients/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {This review summarizes the scientific knowledge concerning the impact of vitamins, magnesium, and trace elements on various mechanisms contributing to the possible treatment and prevention of COVID-19, including its delayed consequences. A search was conducted in various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.- gov, and Web of Science. Among the main mechanisms involved in the effects of the studied micronutrients, immune-boosting, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were also highlighted. The analyzed clinical trials confirmed that supplementation with higher daily doses of some micronutrients can reduce SARS-CoV-2 viral load and hospitalization time. The potential role of most known vitamins in preventing, treating COVID-19, and rehabilitating patients was considered. The most promising agents for combating COVID-19 and its consequences might be the following vitamins: vitamin D, ascorbic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and some B complex vitamins. Inorganic elements deserving attention include magnesium and trace elements, such as zinc, selenium, copper, and iron. Some associations were found between micronutrient deficiencies and COVID-19 severity in children, adults, and older people. Patients can obtain the aforementioned micronutrients from natural food sources or as supplements/- drugs in various dosage forms. The reviewed micronutrients might be considered adjunctive treatment strategies for COVID-19 patients.},
}

Humans
*Trace Elements/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/rehabilitation
*Magnesium/therapeutic use
*Vitamins/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Dietary Supplements
Micronutrients/therapeutic use

@article {pmid38288803,
year = {2025},
author = {Mubarak, MM and Majeed, S and Kantroo, HA and Wani, ZA and Malik, A and Baba, IA and Ahmad, Z},
title = {Deciphering Tuberculous Meningitis: From Clinical Challenges to Novel Models and Pathogenic Pathways.},
journal = {Current topics in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {25},
number = {9},
pages = {969-985},
pmid = {38288803},
issn = {1873-4294},
support = {GAP-2192//Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Government of India/ ; GAP 3103, GAP 2176//DBT, Department of Biotechnology/ ; MLP 1160, MLP 110011//CSIR, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research/ ; GAP 2191//DST, Department of Science and Technology/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Tuberculosis, Meningeal/diagnosis/pathology/drug therapy/therapy ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Blood-Brain Barrier ; Animals ; Antitubercular Agents/therapeutic use ; Mycobacterium tuberculosis ; },
abstract = {During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Tuberculosis (TB) has reestablished with higher figures due to interruptions in the Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS) despite underreporting. The rising consequences would have extended to extra-pulmonary forms of TB as well, including Tuberculous Meningitis (TBM). Considering the fact that TBM is the most dangerous and worst form of TB, we found the need to scan the literature to highlight various aspects of TBM. Epidemiology of TBM is proportionally less frightening, but the consequent mortalities and morbidities are more alarming than pulmonary TB. Here, we address critical research gaps in Tuberculous Meningitis that warrant further investigations. The highlighted aspects encompass a comprehensive understanding of TBM's clinical presentation and improved diagnostic tools for timely detection, the exploration of innovative chemotherapies and surgical interventions, the unraveling of the role of the blood-brain barrier in disease onset, investigating of the contributions of various brain cells to TBM development, deciphering the complex inflammatory response, exploring the involvement of Matrix Metalloproteinases in tissue damage, delving into host-pathogen genetics influencing susceptibility, utilizing robust in-vivo and in-vitro models for mechanistic insights, and more importantly between TBM and SARS-COVID-19 are discussed. Addressing these gaps will substantially advance our understanding of TBM's complex pathogenesis, contributing to more effective diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies against this debilitating disease.},
}

Humans
*Tuberculosis, Meningeal/diagnosis/pathology/drug therapy/therapy
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Blood-Brain Barrier
Animals
Antitubercular Agents/therapeutic use
Mycobacterium tuberculosis

@article {pmid40661998,
year = {2025},
author = {Omar, AS and Alchalabi, H and Gordon, A},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Medical Career Aspirations Among Children of Physicians and Other Healthcare Workers: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {6},
pages = {e85994},
pmid = {40661998},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Existing reviews examine medical students' specialty choices and physician‑parent burnout separately; none link parental pandemic experiences to children's career aspirations. To map and synthesise all empirical evidence on how the COVID‑19 pandemic, particularly parental occupational stress/burnout, has influenced the intentions of children (five to 25 years) of physicians and other healthcare workers (HCWs) to pursue medical careers. We followed the JBI scoping review methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Databases searched included MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. Screening and data extraction processes involved two reviewers, and quality appraisal was performed using the AXIS checklist. Only one study was eligible, involving 53 adolescents from India. Results indicated nearly equal proportions of participants shifted towards and away from medical careers (15% and 13%, respectively), with the majority (72%) showing no change. There is a substantial gap in the literature regarding this specific impact of the pandemic. Further research, including multi-country and longitudinal studies, is needed.},
}

@article {pmid40660410,
year = {2025},
author = {Oktaria, V and Wiratama, BS and Riyanto, S and Purbaningrum, RP and Kusuma, CW and Saraswati, LD and Widyaningsih, V and Febrinasari, RP and Probandari, A and Ahmad, RA},
title = {A scoping review: the impact of nutritional status on the efficacy, effectiveness, and immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccines.},
journal = {Tropical diseases, travel medicine and vaccines},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {21},
pmid = {40660410},
issn = {2055-0936},
support = {1570/UNI/DITLIT/Dit-Lit/PT.01.03/2022//Universitas Gadjah Mada/ ; 1570/UNI/DITLIT/Dit-Lit/PT.01.03/2022//Universitas Gadjah Mada/ ; 1570/UNI/DITLIT/Dit-Lit/PT.01.03/2022//Universitas Gadjah Mada/ ; 1570/UNI/DITLIT/Dit-Lit/PT.01.03/2022//Universitas Gadjah Mada/ ; 1570/UNI/DITLIT/Dit-Lit/PT.01.03/2022//Universitas Gadjah Mada/ ; 1570/UNI/DITLIT/Dit-Lit/PT.01.03/2022//Universitas Gadjah Mada/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccination is one of the most effective strategies in mitigating the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. While a connection between poor nutritional status and diminished immune responses to vaccination has been noted, comprehensive reviews elucidating this association have been scarce. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review to characterise the relationship between nutritional status (specifically, body mass index (BMI) or micronutrient deficiencies) and the responses to COVID-19 vaccination, encompassing efficacy, effectiveness, and immunogenicity.

METHOD: We searched PubMed, OVID-Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Covid Register, LitCovid, and WHO COVID-19 research databases for studies that reported the association between nutritional status and responses to the COVID-19 vaccines (published between December 20, 2019, and December 30, 2023). Two reviewers independently screened the articles, and disagreements were resolved through consensus or by a third reviewer.

RESULTS: Seventy-three out of 1,853 identified articles were included in this review, predominantly featuring cohort designs (72%). Among these studies, 63% reported BMI, 30% focused on micronutrients (specifically vitamin D, selenium, iron, zinc), and 6% examined both. Most studies (84%) focused on vaccine immunogenicity. The most frequently studied vaccines were BNT162b2 (Pfizer, 74%), ChAdOx (AstraZeneca, 23%), and mRNA-1273 (Moderna, 14%). High BMI significantly reduced COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity in 23 studies, while adequate vitamin D was associated with increased vaccine response in seven studies.

CONCLUSION: Overnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies (vitamin D, iron, selenium and zinc) have been observed to attenuate the potency of COVID-19 vaccines. Future strategies aimed at prioritizing vaccination in obese and overweight individuals, or enhancing their vaccine response, may involve identifying measures such as the provision of booster doses. Additionally, efforts should ensure micronutrient adequacy, including improving vitamin D status through strategies like increased sun exposure or supplementation, particularly for deficient individuals.},
}

@article {pmid40659853,
year = {2025},
author = {Maes, M and Almulla, AF and You, Z and Zhang, Y},
title = {Neuroimmune, metabolic and oxidative stress pathways in major depressive disorder.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Neurology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40659853},
issn = {1759-4766},
abstract = {This Review examines the role of neuroimmune imbalances and their relationship with metabolism and oxidative stress in the development and progression of major depressive disorder (MDD) and suicidal behaviours. We provide a concise overview of the neuroinflammatory environment and indicators of neuronal injury in the central nervous system of individuals with MDD. Furthermore, we explore the evidence for perturbations in both the peripheral and central immune system, T cell activation versus T regulatory cell depletion, intracellular signalling networks including nuclear factor-κB, lipid metabolism and neuroprotection. Last, we examine the mechanisms by which psychological stressors, translocation of Gram-negative bacteria, viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2 and metabolic syndrome can contribute to neuroimmune imbalances and, consequently, the acute phase of MDD.},
}

@article {pmid40659439,
year = {2025},
author = {Giltenane, M and Dowling, M},
title = {Nursing and midwifery faculty experience of emergency remote teaching during Covid-19 pandemic: Qualitative evidence synthesis.},
journal = {Journal of professional nursing : official journal of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing},
volume = {59},
number = {},
pages = {88-99},
doi = {10.1016/j.profnurs.2025.04.013},
pmid = {40659439},
issn = {1532-8481},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Faculty, Nursing/psychology ; *Education, Distance ; *Midwifery/education ; Qualitative Research ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many universities switched their pedagogical approach to teach remotely during Covid-19 pandemic for the first time, posing many challenges for faculty including technology infrastructure, lack of technical support, a changed teaching environment and more responsibility for supporting students to meet intended learning.

AIM: To Synthesise nursing and midwifery faculty experiences of online teaching during the Covid-19 pandemic.

METHOD: A systematic review of qualitative evidence was completed to systematically synthesise nursing and midwifery faculty experiences of online teaching during Covid-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: Nine qualitative and three mixed-methods studies reporting on the experiences of 248 faculty were included in this 'best fit' framework using Chickering and Gamson's Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education. The importance of face-to-face interaction between faculty and students was highlighted for effective communication and interpersonal relationships. Clinical placement exposure was deemed imperative. Professional development and managerial support are paramount to effectively incorporate the use of online technologies to support nursing and midwifery education.

CONCLUSIONS: Clinical placement and practical skills training are essential to be delivered in-person. Face-to-face programmes could be enhanced using online components. Professional development and managerial support, together with collaboration among Higher Educational Institutions, Clinical Practice Partners and Regulatory Bodies is imperative for effective blended programmes.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Faculty, Nursing/psychology
*Education, Distance
*Midwifery/education
Qualitative Research
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate

@article {pmid40656803,
year = {2024},
author = {Ghimire, R and Kharel, S and Giri, S and Hamilton, AJ},
title = {The Growing Need for Web-Based Simulation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.},
journal = {JNMA; journal of the Nepal Medical Association},
volume = {62},
number = {279},
pages = {789-795},
pmid = {40656803},
issn = {1815-672X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Simulation Training/methods ; *Developing Countries ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Education, Distance/methods ; *Internet ; *Education, Medical/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Simulation education is the bridge between learning clinical medicine in the classroom and delivering it at the bedside. As healthcare simulation has matured over the last two decades, it has begun to evolve many of the same methodologies. Rapid technological advancements across the fields of computer science, bioengineering, and curriculum design have helped to provide healthcare that is delivered more efficiently, effectively, and ethically. Web-based simulation programs (Web-SP) are poised to provide an efficient way to deliver asynchronous training in healthcare professionals' education. Web-SPs could also sponsor specialty-specific, web-based fellowships for clinicians of LMICs. The COVID-19 pandemic provided unique insight into the robustness of web-based learning tools that permitted remote learning opportunities. Under similar circumstances, should they arise again, Web-SPs would be a valuable tool for sustaining medical training under conditions where only remote learning may be feasible. Studies indicate that cost-effective simulation training can be delivered to learners in remote, low-resource areas worldwide, including South Asia, where access to such education is limited. We aimed to explore the effectiveness, challenges, and strategies for implementing web-based simulation education in low- and middle-income countries, based on a thorough PubMed search focused on web-based simulation programs in medical education.},
}

Humans
*Simulation Training/methods
*Developing Countries
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Education, Distance/methods
*Internet
*Education, Medical/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40654120,
year = {2025},
author = {Chouksey, G and Choure, R and Singhal, K},
title = {Health-related quality of life after prosthodontic rehabilitation in patients with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {30-39},
pmid = {40654120},
issn = {1998-4057},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Quality of Life ; *Mucormycosis/rehabilitation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Patient Satisfaction ; },
abstract = {Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures an individual's ability to function optimally in various aspects of life and their subjective sense of well-being across the physical, mental, and social dimensions of health. COVID-19-associated mucormycosis often necessitates aggressive surgical removal of infected tissues and restoration of the defect. Evaluating patient satisfaction and HRQOL following prosthodontic rehabilitation is essential for assessing the effectiveness of interventions on individuals dealing with their condition. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of prosthodontic rehabilitation on the HRQOL of individuals affected by COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. The research strictly adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO 2023CRD42023495778). Comprehensive searches across databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar were done to include studies after the year 2020, written in English language, regardless of geographic location, which presented data on prosthodontic interventions for individuals affected by COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. Independently, the three authors conducted a comprehensive quality assessment of the selected studies using the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) study quality assessment tool to gauge the risk of bias specifically for before-after (pre-post) studies lacking a control group. A total of 116 records were screened, out of which 109 records were excluded. Eight studies were included in the study. HRQOL assessment after prosthodontic intervention included functional, physical, social, and psychological limitations. Questionnaires that were included in the studies were the Obturator Functioning Scale, Appearance Anxiety Inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire, auditory perception analysis, Oral Health Impact Profile, and the Liverpool Oral Rehabilitation Questionnaire. The HRQOL was reported compositely in 2 out of 8 studies. There was an improvement after prosthodontic rehabilitation in all the studies. HRQOL in patients with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis shows improvement after prosthodontic rehabilitation. Obturators and zygomatic implant-supported prostheses are preferred options for rehabilitation in patients who have undergone maxillectomy due to COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. Prosthodontic rehabilitation has a positive impact on the HRQOL of individuals affected by COVID-19-associated mucormycosis improving their functional, physical, social, and psychological well-being.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Quality of Life
*Mucormycosis/rehabilitation
SARS-CoV-2
Patient Satisfaction

@article {pmid40653738,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, M and Wan, S and Yao, X and Meng, R and Ji, X},
title = {Study on Cerebral Venous Thrombosis From 2014 to 2023: A Bibliometric Analysis via CiteSpace.},
journal = {Clinical and applied thrombosis/hemostasis : official journal of the International Academy of Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis},
volume = {31},
number = {},
pages = {10760296251359289},
doi = {10.1177/10760296251359289},
pmid = {40653738},
issn = {1938-2723},
mesh = {*Bibliometrics ; Humans ; *Venous Thrombosis/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Intracranial Thrombosis/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {ObjectiveWe aimed to explore the development status, turning and key points, and emerging trends of the cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT).MethodsLiterature pertaining to CVT published from 2014 to 2023 in the Web of Science Core Collection database was searched. The 6.3.R1 version of CiteSpace software was used to conduct a bibliometric analysis.ResultsA total of 2421 articles were ultimately retained. The annual publication volume exhibited a general trend of gradual growth, culminating in 2022. In terms of both publication volume and citation frequency, the journal "Stroke" emerges as the preeminent publication with high quantity and quality. The United States, China and India have become the foremost contributors while Pakistan and England exhibit a strong international collaboration. Ferro JM from Universidade de Lisboa, Coutinho JM from University of Amsterdam and Ji XM from Capital Medical University from are identified as the leading scholars. Burst analyses of keyword and co-cited references reveal that prior to 2021, the predominant research topics in the field of CVT were epidemiology, diagnosis and management, with increased attention to endovascular therapies and novel imaging modalities. From 2021 to 2023, the focus has shifted primarily to COVID-19 and vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT).ConclusionOver the past decade, research on CVT has demonstrated continuous growth. The most influential institutions and scholars were from Europe and China. Our analysis showed that core research priorities in CVT centered on epidemiology, diagnosis and management while the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily shifted focus toward COVID-19 and VITT associated CVT.},
}

*Bibliometrics
Humans
*Venous Thrombosis/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Intracranial Thrombosis/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40652462,
year = {2025},
author = {Landsteiner, I and Pinheiro, JA and Leles Vieira de Souza, B and Setti Frizon, DM and Federighi Baisi Chagas, E and Marques Payão, SL},
title = {Effect of COVID-19 Related Social Isolation on Cognitive Decline in Neurocognitive Disorder Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Neurology India},
volume = {73},
number = {1},
pages = {10-16},
doi = {10.4103/neurol-india.Neurol-India-D-24-00337},
pmid = {40652462},
issn = {1998-4022},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Social Isolation/psychology ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/psychology ; *Dementia/psychology ; Quarantine/psychology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 lockdown placed individuals at significant risk of social isolation. Particularly, older people were more vulnerable to the deleterious effects on mental and physical health caused by the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine, in which social confinement was associated with aggravated cognitive function among older adults. Correspondingly, it concerns the repercussions of the lockdown on the cognitive function of patients with dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) during the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the hypothesis that COVID-19 might cause cognitive decline in dementia patients due to social isolation by assessing changes in Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores between the pre and post-pandemic era. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for eligible studies from inception to April 2023. We included studies reporting the MMSE in patients with dementia or MCI one year prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and one year after the lockdown. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled with a random-effects model. Among 4,160 studies, twelve were included, comprising 4,096 patients with dementia or MCI. Patients with dementia exhibited significant MMSE decline compared to pre-pandemic levels (SMD = 0.341, P < 0.001). Similarly, MCI patients demonstrated an MMSE decline during lockdown (SMD = 0.315, P = 0.015). Sub-analyses of dementia types also indicated cognitive decline during lockdown, and a 12-month follow-up revealed an MMSE decline among dementia patients. During the COVID-19 lockdown, there was an overall decline in MMSE scores amongst those with dementia or MCI when compared to pre-pandemic parameters.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
*Social Isolation/psychology
*Cognitive Dysfunction/psychology
*Dementia/psychology
Quarantine/psychology

@article {pmid40651571,
year = {2025},
author = {Tanaka, T and Kakiuchi, S and Fujita, A and Tashiro, M and Izumikawa, K},
title = {Vaccination Strategies for Transplantation in Japan (Solid Organ Transplantation and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation).},
journal = {Journal of infection and chemotherapy : official journal of the Japan Society of Chemotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102772},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiac.2025.102772},
pmid = {40651571},
issn = {1437-7780},
abstract = {The management of infectious diseases in immunocompromised patients represents a critical component of managing severe and refractory conditions, with early diagnosis and prompt therapeutic intervention serving as fundamental principles. Vaccine-preventable disease (VPD) management is equally essential. From a health economics perspective, this approach is pivotal in preventing potentially intractable scenarios. This article reviews immunization strategies in adult patients undergoing solid organ transplantation (SOT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in Japan, two distinct categories of immunocompromised individuals. Although many recommended vaccines overlap between these groups, the timing and significance of vaccination prophylaxis differ. Patients who undergo SOT remain immunocompromised long-term, whereas those who have received HSCT experience a period of immune reconstitution following the cessation of immunosuppressive therapy. Additionally, numerous recommended vaccinations must be completed within a defined timeframe, and their management is more complex than that for immunocompetent individuals. Recently, several new vaccines, such as those for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), recombinant zoster, pneumococcal (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)15, 20, 21), and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), have been introduced. Recommended vaccination guidance varies across countries, combining established and new information, although some updates may not yet be incorporated. This article provides an overview of current vaccination guidance for SOT and HSCT recipients, highlighting country-specific issues in Japan as well as common challenges faced globally, and proposes optimal strategies for future vaccination policies in Japan.},
}

@article {pmid40172270,
year = {2025},
author = {Carleen, A and Ebersole, A},
title = {Contraception updates for adolescents.},
journal = {Current opinion in pediatrics},
volume = {37},
number = {4},
pages = {318-324},
doi = {10.1097/MOP.0000000000001463},
pmid = {40172270},
issn = {1531-698X},
mesh = {Humans ; Adolescent ; *Contraception/methods/standards ; Female ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; United States ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Counseling ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To discuss updated guidelines for the provision of contraception to adolescents, review several contraceptive methods that have entered the market in recent years, and summarize insights from the literature that can assist clinicians in providing accurate, destigmatized contraceptive counseling to patients of all sizes.

RECENT FINDINGS: The 2024 United States Selected Practice Recommendations (US SPR) and United States Medical Eligibility for Contraceptive Use (US MEC) guidelines include changes to recommendations for contraception use in persons with various health conditions, and new advice for management of implant-associated breakthrough bleeding, pain control for intrauterine device (IUD) insertions, and counseling for patients who take testosterone. Subcutaneous Depo-Provera usage increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and multiple studies demonstrate favorable patient experiences with it. Annovera, Miudella, Opill, Phexxi, Slynd, and Twirla are newer contraceptives which have distinct features that may make them attractive options for some patients. Contraception-related weight changes continue to be an active area of research. With the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommending broader BMI inclusion criteria, providers can expect more information about safety and efficacy of new contraceptives in individuals across the weight spectrum.

SUMMARY: Updated evidence-based guidelines and several new contraceptive options should empower providers to provide patient-centered contraception counseling to patients with a variety of health conditions and contraceptive preferences.},
}

Humans
Adolescent
*Contraception/methods/standards
Female
COVID-19/epidemiology
United States
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Counseling
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40172268,
year = {2025},
author = {Nagata, JM and Lee, CM and Hur, JO and Baker, FC},
title = {What we know about screen time and social media in early adolescence: a review of findings from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study.},
journal = {Current opinion in pediatrics},
volume = {37},
number = {4},
pages = {357-364},
pmid = {40172268},
issn = {1531-698X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Screen Time ; Adolescent ; *Social Media/statistics & numerical data ; Child ; *Adolescent Behavior/psychology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology/etiology ; *Adolescent Development ; Video Games ; Cognition ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review recent literature based on Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study data of over 11 000 participants about screen time and social media use in early adolescence, including epidemiology, trends, and associations with mental and physical health outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS: Time spent on screens and social media has risen among early adolescents (aged 9-15 years), and these increasing trends have been more pronounced since the COVID-19 pandemic. Both cross-sectional and 1-2-year follow-up data show that higher screen use, particularly social media, video games, video chat, videos, and texting, is associated with a range of mental health symptoms, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity, and disruptive behavior disorders, although effect sizes vary. Screen time is also associated with sleep problems and various cardiometabolic risk factors. Parents' own screen use and restriction of bedroom and mealtime screen use are associated with lower early adolescent screen time and problematic use.

SUMMARY: Analyses of current ABCD Study data reveal increasing use of screens and social media across early adolescence, with sociodemographic disparities in screen use as well as numerous associations between screens and adverse mental and physical health effects.},
}

Humans
*Screen Time
Adolescent
*Social Media/statistics & numerical data
Child
*Adolescent Behavior/psychology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology/etiology
*Adolescent Development
Video Games
Cognition
Cross-Sectional Studies

@article {pmid40656089,
year = {2024},
author = {Burkauskas, J and Branchi, I and Pallanti, S and Domschke, K},
title = {Anxiety in post-covid-19 syndrome - prevalence, mechanisms and treatment.},
journal = {Neuroscience applied..},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {103932},
pmid = {40656089},
issn = {2772-4085},
abstract = {In addition to the general impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on anxiety-related mental state, anxiety and anxiety disorders have also been implicated within 'post-COVID-19 syndrome', i.e. following a SARS-CoV-2 infection. The present narrative review provides an update on the current state of knowledge on anxiety and anxiety disorders in the context of post-COVID-19 syndrome, on epidemiological, psychological, and biological factors that may contribute to anxiety following a SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as on therapy options available for anxiety in the context of post-COVID-19 syndrome. A multi-step systematic literature search of PubMed and Web of Science databases was performed applying the following broad search terms: ("anxiety" OR "anxiety disorder") AND ("COVID" OR "COVID-19" OR "corona" OR "pandemic" OR "Post-COVID" OR "Long-COVID"). Eligible articles published until November 15, 2022 were included. Meta-analyses identified anxiety prevalence rates ranging from 16.6% to 29.6% after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Premorbid anxiety has not reliably been shown to be associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Female sex, older age, severity of COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, reduced mobility, uncertainty, loneliness and low social support, anxiety sensitivity and cognitive inflexibility as well as biological factors such as immune dysregulation, alterations in the angiotensin system and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activation have been identified as potential anxiety risk factors in the context of post-COVID-19 syndrome. Treatment options comprise pharmacotherapy with selective serotonin/noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors and (internet-/computer-based) cognitive behavioral psychotherapy, possibly augmented by mindfulness-based techniques, physical exercise and non-invasive brain stimulation. Provided corroboration of the currently suggested increased risk of anxiety in the context of post-COVID-19 syndrome by future large-scale, prospective studies, a standardized screening for anxiety in patients with a SARS-CoV-2 infection - particularly in individuals with risk factors - and a psychiatric consultation and liaison service should be established to provide preventive and therapeutic interventions as early as possible.},
}

@article {pmid37576385,
year = {2022},
author = {Kalk, A and Sturmberg, J and Van Damme, W and Brown, GW and Ridde, V and Zizi, M and Paul, E},
title = {Surfing Corona waves - instead of breaking them: Rethinking the role of natural immunity in COVID-19 policy.},
journal = {F1000Research},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {337},
pmid = {37576385},
issn = {2046-1402},
mesh = {*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immunity, Innate ; *Health Policy ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {In the first two years of the pandemic, COVID-19 response policies have aimed to break Corona waves through non-pharmaceutical interventions and mass vaccination. However, for long-term strategies to be effective and efficient, and to avoid massive disruption and social harms, it is crucial to introduce the role of natural immunity in our thinking about COVID-19 (or future "Disease-X") control and prevention. We argue that any Corona or similar virus control policy must appropriately balance five key elements simultaneously: balancing the various fundamental interests of the nation, as well as the various interventions within the health sector; tailoring the prevention measures and treatments to individual needs; limiting social interaction restrictions; and balancing the role of vaccinations against the role of naturally induced immunity. Given the high infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 and its differential impact on population segments, we examine this last element in more detail and argue that an important aspect of 'living with the virus' will be to better understand the role of naturally induced immunity in our overall COVID-19 policy response. In our eyes, a policy approach that factors natural immunity should be considered for persons without major comorbidities and those having 'encountered' the antigen in the past.},
}

*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/epidemiology
Humans
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immunity, Innate
*Health Policy
*Pandemics/prevention & control

@article {pmid40651487,
year = {2025},
author = {Flamant, A and Demirjian, A and Lamagni, T and Toubiana, J and Smeesters, PR and Cohen, JF},
title = {Invasive group A streptococcal infections: lessons learned from the 2022-23 upsurge.},
journal = {The Lancet. Infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S1473-3099(25)00343-3},
pmid = {40651487},
issn = {1474-4457},
abstract = {During the late phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, several high-income countries reported a surge in invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections, with notable paediatric morbidity and mortality. This Review explores three potential drivers of this increase: the role of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated non-pharmaceutical interventions on group A streptococcus (GAS) circulation; the potential burden associated with other respiratory viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus; and the potential role of hypervirulent GAS clones and lineages. The resurgence of iGAS disease highlights the need for enhanced surveillance of both invasive and non-invasive GAS infections, as well as further research to clarify the role of immunity, viral interactions, and bacterial molecular epidemiology and its evolution. A comprehensive understanding of these dynamics is essential to inform future public health strategies aimed at mitigating the burden of iGAS disease.},
}

@article {pmid40647079,
year = {2025},
author = {Wimalawansa, SJ},
title = {Reforming Food, Drug, and Nutraceutical Regulations to Improve Public Health and Reduce Healthcare Costs.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
pmid = {40647079},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {Neglecting preventive healthcare policies has contributed to the global surge in chronic diseases, increased hospitalizations, declining quality of care, and escalating costs. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)-notably cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and cancer-consume over 80% of healthcare expenditure and account for more than 60% of global deaths, which are projected to exceed 75% by 2030. Poor diets, sedentary lifestyles, regulatory loopholes, and underfunded public health initiatives are driving this crisis. Compounding the issue are flawed policies, congressional lobbying, and conflicts of interest that prioritize costly, hospital-based, symptom-driven care over identifying and treating to eliminate root causes and disease prevention. Regulatory agencies are failing to deliver their intended functions. For instance, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) broad oversight across drugs, devices, food, and supplements has resulted in inefficiencies, reduced transparency, and public safety risks. This broad mandate has allowed the release of unsafe drugs, food additives, and supplements, contributing to the rising childhood diseases, the burden of chronic illness, and over-medicalization. The author proposes separating oversight responsibilities: transferring authority over food, supplements, and OTC products to a new Food and Nutraceutical Agency (FNA), allowing the FDA to be restructured as the Drug and Device Agency (DDA), to refocus on pharmaceuticals and medical devices. While complete reform requires Congressional action, interim policy shifts are urgently needed to improve public health. Broader structural changes-including overhauling the Affordable Care Act, eliminating waste and fraud, redesigning regulatory and insurance systems, and eliminating intermediaries are essential to reducing costs, improving care, and transforming national and global health outcomes. The information provided herein can serve as a White Paper to help reform health agencies and healthcare systems for greater efficiency and lower costs in the USA and globally.},
}

@article {pmid39756407,
year = {2025},
author = {Torres, BP and Aguiniga, A and Yzaguirre, S and Thompson, SR and Wesling, M},
title = {Trends and considerations in the pursuit of postgraduate training: Motivations, barriers, and well-being.},
journal = {American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists},
volume = {82},
number = {14},
pages = {831-843},
doi = {10.1093/ajhp/zxae368},
pmid = {39756407},
issn = {1535-2900},
mesh = {Humans ; *Motivation ; *Pharmacy Residencies/trends ; *Education, Pharmacy, Graduate/trends ; *Pharmacists/psychology/trends ; COVID-19 ; Career Choice ; Burnout, Professional ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Pharmacy residency training, endorsed by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), is designed to enhance clinical pharmacy practice. However, in 2022 and subsequent years, the ASHP Resident Matching Program reported unprecedented numbers of unfilled positions, notably in postgraduate year 2 (PGY2) programs. This review explores motivations, barriers, and well-being indices in pharmacy residency pursuit and training, seeking to explain the rise in unfilled postgraduate training positions.

METHODS: Two literature searches were performed using relevant resources and databases: search 1, to determine motivating factors and barriers to pursuit of postgraduate training; and search 2, to gather evidence related to resident well-being, burnout, and resiliency.

RESULTS: Search 1 yielded 11 studies about motivating or deterring factors for pharmacy residency pursuit, whereas search 2 produced 16 articles on resident well-being. Major motivators for pursuing postgraduate training included the desire to gain knowledge and specialized training, recognition of evolving pharmacist roles, and viewing residency as a prerequisite for certain positions. Conversely, major barriers included financial or family obligations and concerns about job availability following graduation. Most articles discussed student pursuit of PGY1 residencies. Resident well-being encompassed burnout assessments, other wellness indicators like depression, and the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Developed well-being programs elicited mostly positive perceptions from pharmacy residents.

CONCLUSION: There is a body of published literature elucidating motivations and barriers to the pursuit of postgraduate training and well-being related to wellness/satisfaction on the job. However, to comprehensively evaluate well-being program impact and address gaps in literature regarding barriers to and motivators for pursuit of specialized PGY2 programs, further research is needed.},
}

Humans
*Motivation
*Pharmacy Residencies/trends
*Education, Pharmacy, Graduate/trends
*Pharmacists/psychology/trends
COVID-19
Career Choice
Burnout, Professional

@article {pmid40651127,
year = {2025},
author = {Okuhara, T and Okada, H and Yokota, R and Kiuchi, T},
title = {Effectiveness and determinants of narrative-based corrections for health misinformation: A systematic review.},
journal = {Patient education and counseling},
volume = {139},
number = {},
pages = {109253},
doi = {10.1016/j.pec.2025.109253},
pmid = {40651127},
issn = {1873-5134},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of narrative-based interventions in correcting health-related misinformation and to identify key message-related, sender-related, and recipient-related factors influencing their success.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Academic Search Complete, Communication Abstracts, and Web of Science. Eligible studies included quantitative intervention studies examining the impact of narrative-based corrections on health-related misinformation.

RESULTS: Twenty studies covering topics such as COVID-19, vaccination, tobacco use, and e-cigarette use were included. Among the 16 studies comparing narrative and nonnarrative corrections, only four showed that narratives were significantly more effective in reducing misinformation-related beliefs than other message types. Several factors influenced narrative effectiveness. Message-related factors include emotional language, social framing, and message sidedness. Sender-related factors, such as the credibility of the source and relational closeness with recipients, also affected outcomes. Recipient-related factors, including cognitive style, political ideology, and social media use motivation, moderated the intervention effects. Some studies have reported unintended backfire effects in which narratives reinforce misinformation.

CONCLUSION: Narrative-based corrections show the potential for addressing health-related misinformation; however, their effectiveness remains inconsistent. The variability in narrative design, media platforms, and insufficient theoretical grounding may explain these mixed results. Future research should focus on theoretically informed narratives and systematically examine the influencing factors to optimize misinformation correction strategies.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The effectiveness of narrative-based corrections on health misinformation depends on thoughtful design grounded in theoretical principles such as transportation, identification, and exemplification. Health communicators should consider narrative length, depth, and emotional content and adapt messages to different platforms (e.g., social media). Tailoring interventions to audience characteristics, such as cognitive styles and prior beliefs, can further enhance efforts to correct misinformation.},
}

@article {pmid40650276,
year = {2025},
author = {Alvarado-Hernández, DL and Noyola, MV and Martínez-Rider, R and Bernal-Silva, S and Comas-Garcia, A},
title = {NK Cells: A Powerful Squad Versus SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26136500},
pmid = {40650276},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Killer Cells, Natural/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The function of NK cells in cancer and viral infections is well documented and understood. NK cell activity, including cytokine secretion, cytotoxic activity, and the coordination of inhibitory and activating receptors, linking innate and adaptive immunity, among others, has been examined for numerous pathogens, including parasites, bacteria, and viruses. The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 health crisis has exposed a deficiency in understanding the previously elucidated mechanisms; the rationale for the reported variability in symptomatology among COVID-19 patients is extensive and intricate. It is evident that NK cells exert a significant influence on symptom severity, and their absence, with the presence or absence of their surface receptors, elicits a tailored response to the virus. This overview examines the impact of NK cells on the progression of several viral diseases, emphasizing their involvement in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 via the activation of surface receptors.},
}

Humans
*Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Animals

@article {pmid40650158,
year = {2025},
author = {Capotă, R and Ciaușu-Sliwa, D and Bostănaru-Iliescu, AC and Năstasă, V and Mareș, M},
title = {Latest Findings in Immunoglobulin Y Technologies and Applications.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26136380},
pmid = {40650158},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Immunoglobulins/therapeutic use/immunology/isolation & purification ; Animals ; Humans ; COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Immunoglobulin Y (IgY), the major antibody class in birds, has gained increasing attention in recent years as a versatile and ethically sustainable alternative to mammalian immunoglobulins. IgY has demonstrated strong potential in diagnostics, prophylaxis, and therapy across a wide range of fields, including infectious diseases, allergy management, oral health, and food safety. Its applications in animal health-particularly in poultry, livestock, and companion animals-further underscore its relevance within the One Health framework. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of IgY technology, starting with its physiological role in maternal immunity and the structural characteristics that distinguish it from mammalian immunoglobulin G (IgG). This review outlines current strategies for IgY production and purification. It also provides an overview of its biomedical and veterinary applications, including its use in diagnostics, prevention, and treatment-such as for SARS-CoV-2-primarily based on studies published in the past five years. The final section addresses the current limitations of IgY technology, such as variability in protocols, stability challenges, and the need for safety assessment, while highlighting the importance of harmonized guidelines to support broader implementation. With growing scientific interest, expanding clinical research, and increasing availability of commercial products, IgY is well positioned to become a valuable immunobiological tool for both human and veterinary applications.},
}

*Immunoglobulins/therapeutic use/immunology/isolation & purification
Animals
Humans
COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/therapy
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40649991,
year = {2025},
author = {Hein, ZM and Thazin, and Kumar, S and Che Ramli, MD and Che Mohd Nassir, CMN},
title = {Immunomodulatory Mechanisms Underlying Neurological Manifestations in Long COVID: Implications for Immune-Mediated Neurodegeneration.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26136214},
pmid = {40649991},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/immunology/etiology ; Blood-Brain Barrier/immunology ; Biomarkers ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Immunomodulation ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the profound and lasting impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on the nervous system. Beyond acute infection, SARS-CoV-2 acts as a potent immunomodulatory agent, disrupting immune homeostasis and contributing to persistent inflammation, autoimmunity, and neurodegeneration. Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is characterized by a spectrum of neurological symptoms, including cognitive dysfunction, fatigue, neuropathy, and mood disturbances. These are linked to immune dysregulation involving cytokine imbalance, blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, glial activation, and T-cell exhaustion. Key biomarkers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light chain (NFL) correlate with disease severity and chronicity. This narrative review examines the immunopathological mechanisms underpinning the neurological sequelae of long COVID, focusing on neuroinflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and molecular mimicry. We also assess the role of viral variants in shaping neuroimmune outcomes and explore emerging diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, including biomarker-guided and immune-targeted interventions. By delineating how SARS-CoV-2 reshapes neuroimmune interactions, this review aims to support the development of precision-based diagnostics and targeted therapies for long COVID-related neurological dysfunction. Emerging approaches include immune-modulatory agents (e.g., anti-IL-6), neuroprotective drugs, and strategies for repurposing antiviral or anti-inflammatory compounds in neuro-COVID. Given the high prevalence of comorbidities, personalized therapies guided by biomarkers and patient-specific immune profiles may be essential. Advancements in vaccine technologies and targeted biologics may also hold promise for prevention and disease modification. Finally, continued interdisciplinary research is needed to clarify the complex virus-immune-brain axis in long COVID and inform effective clinical management.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/immunology/etiology
Blood-Brain Barrier/immunology
Biomarkers
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Immunomodulation

@article {pmid40649892,
year = {2025},
author = {Aklilu, A and Lai, MS and Jiang, Z and Yip, SP and Huang, CL},
title = {Immunothrombosis in Sepsis: Cellular Crosstalk, Molecular Triggers, and Therapeutic Opportunities-A Review.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26136114},
pmid = {40649892},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {COVID1903007 - Theme B//Health and Medical Research Fund Commissioned Research on COVID-19/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Sepsis/immunology/complications/pathology/therapy ; Animals ; Blood Platelets/immunology/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; Immunity, Innate ; *Thromboinflammation/immunology ; Blood Coagulation ; Neutrophils/immunology/metabolism ; Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation/immunology ; *Thrombosis/immunology ; },
abstract = {Sepsis remains a critical global health challenge characterized by life-threatening organ dysfunction arising from a dysregulated host response to infection. Immunothrombosis refers to the intersection of immune activation and coagulation pathways, particularly relevant in the context of sepsis. A growing body of evidence identifies immunothrombosis, a tightly interwoven process between innate immunity and coagulation. While immunothrombosis serves as a host defense mechanism under physiological conditions, its aberrant activation in sepsis precipitates microvascular thrombosis, organ ischemia, and progression toward disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). This review provides a comprehensive overview of the cellular contributors to immunothrombosis, including neutrophils, monocytes, platelets, and endothelial cells, and elucidates the signaling cascades, such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and inflammasome activation, that govern their interplay. We further highlight emerging molecular mediators, including extracellular traps, tissue factor expression, and cytokine amplification loops, that collectively promote pathological thromboinflammation. A deeper understanding of these interconnected pathways offers critical insights into the pathogenesis of sepsis and unveils potential targets for timely intervention. Ultimately, this review aims to bridge immunological and hematological perspectives to inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies against sepsis-induced coagulopathy.},
}

Humans
*Sepsis/immunology/complications/pathology/therapy
Animals
Blood Platelets/immunology/metabolism
Signal Transduction
Immunity, Innate
*Thromboinflammation/immunology
Blood Coagulation
Neutrophils/immunology/metabolism
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation/immunology
*Thrombosis/immunology

@article {pmid40649397,
year = {2025},
author = {Brahmi, F and Mackrill, JJ and Ghzaiel, I and Rezig, L and Benkhalifa, R and Zarrouk, A and Jouanny, P and Vejux, A and Lizard, G},
title = {Oxysterol-Induced Inflammation in Human Diseases: Strategies for Treatment with Natural Compounds and Synthetic Molecules.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30132883},
pmid = {40649397},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; *Oxysterols/metabolism/adverse effects ; *Inflammation/drug therapy/metabolism/chemically induced ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Animals ; Hydroxycholesterols ; },
abstract = {Oxysterols can be derived from the diet, physiologically produced via specific enzymes, or are generated by autoxidation. These molecules have physiological properties and can also adversely affect vital organs. Indeed, some of them have pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory activities and can lead to major pathologies. The present review focuses on oxysterols (7-ketocholesterol, 7β-hydroxycholesterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol, 27-hydroxycholesterol, 5,6α-epoxycholesterol, 5,6β-epoxycholesterol, and cholestane-3β, 5α, 6β-triol) involved either in cholesterol metabolism, age-related diseases (such as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and eye diseases, e.g., sarcopenia), and inflammatory diseases (especially Behcet's disease and bowel and lung diseases (e.g., sarcoidosis, COVID-19)). Metabolic pathways associated with oxysterol-induced inflammation are discussed considering the cytokinic TLR4 pathway, non-cytokinic pathways, and the contribution of Ca[2+] and K[+] channels. Therapeutic approaches targeting oxysterol-induced inflammation either by natural or synthetic molecules are also presented.},
}

Humans
*Oxysterols/metabolism/adverse effects
*Inflammation/drug therapy/metabolism/chemically induced
*Biological Products/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Animals
Hydroxycholesterols

@article {pmid40648935,
year = {2025},
author = {Abumayyaleh, M and Schupp, T and Behnes, M and El-Battrawy, I and Hamdani, N and Akin, I},
title = {COVID-19 and Myocarditis: Trends, Clinical Characteristics, and Future Directions.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm14134560},
pmid = {40648935},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has been associated with a range of cardiovascular complications, including myocarditis. This review aims to systematically present the clinical manifestations, underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies for both COVID-19-associated myocarditis and myocarditis related to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. We conducted a literature search using the PubMed database, covering studies published up to early 2024. Search terms included combinations of "COVID-19", "Coronavirus", "SARS-CoV-2", and/or "vaccination" with "cardiac injury", "cardiac inflammation", "myocarditis". The reported prevalence of COVID-19-associated myocarditis varies between 2.3% and 5.0%, though myocardial injury is more frequently observed than confirmed myocarditis. Pathophysiological mechanisms include direct viral damage, immune-mediated injury, and molecular mimicry. Clinically, patients may present with chest pain, dyspnea, and fever. Diagnostic workup includes electrocardiography (ECG), troponin measurement, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI), and in selected cases, endomyocardial biopsy (EMB). The management and disposition of COVID-19-associated myocarditis varies according to severity, especially to allow targeted treatment of complications. Glucocorticoids are a mainstay of treatment in severe cases. Myocarditis following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is rare, more frequently reported in males under 30 years, and is generally associated with a favorable prognosis. Despite this, the benefits of vaccination continue to outweigh the risks. COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of heart failure and other cardiovascular complications, underlining the importance of long-term follow-up and preventive strategies. Further research is needed to better understand the pathogenesis and optimal management of myocarditis in the context of COVID-19, with the goal of developing evidence-based therapeutic algorithms.},
}

@article {pmid40648597,
year = {2025},
author = {Sakaretsanou, AK and Bakola, M and Chatzeli, T and Charalambous, G and Jelastopulu, E},
title = {Mental Health Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on College Students: A Literature Review with Emphasis on Vulnerable and Minority Populations.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13131572},
pmid = {40648597},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted higher education worldwide, imposing strict isolation measures, transitioning learning online, and exacerbating existing social and economic inequalities. This literature review examines the pandemic's impact on the mental health of college students, with a focus on those belonging to minority groups, including racial, ethnic, migrant, gender, sexuality-based, and low-income populations. While elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness were observed across all students, findings indicate that LGBTQ+ and low-income students faced the highest levels of psychological distress, due to compounded stressors such as family rejection, unsafe home environments, and financial insecurity. Racial and ethnic minority students reported increased experiences of discrimination and reduced access to culturally competent mental healthcare. International and migrant students were disproportionately affected by travel restrictions, legal uncertainties, and social disconnection. These disparities underscore the need for higher education institutions to implement targeted, inclusive mental health policies that account for the unique needs of at-risk student populations during health crises.},
}

@article {pmid40648560,
year = {2025},
author = {Kalok, A and Kamisan Atan, I and Sharip, S and Safian, N and Shah, SA},
title = {Psychosocial Determinants of Childbirth Fear Among Asian Women: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13131535},
pmid = {40648560},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {FF-2023-316//Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Fear of childbirth (FOC) or tokophobia has a detrimental impact on women during and after pregnancy. Childbirth fear is multidimensional and may differ across nations and cultures. We aimed to determine the psychosocial determinants of tokophobia among Asians. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases in September 2023. Included were original English-language articles that focused on Asian cohorts. We identified independent variables associated with maternal childbirth fear based on multivariable logistic and linear regression analysis. Results: Twenty-three studies are discussed in this review. We categorized the factors into (1) psychiatry, (2) psychology, (3) perception and experience, (4) relationships and support, (5) spirituality, and (6) COVID-19. The studies involved 10,538 women with overall FOC prevalence ranging between 56.6% to 82.1%. Maternal history of psychiatric disorder, depression, and anxiety were positive predictors of childbirth fear. Childbirth self-efficacy protects Asian mothers against tokophobia. A reduced level of fear was associated with higher maternal psychological and spiritual well-being, as well as stronger maternal resilience. Spousal and social support alongside good family function were shown to exert a protective effect against childbirth fear. Intimate partner abuse was associated with an increased risk of tokophobia in women. Studies during the pandemic indicated that maternal fear, obsession, and anxiety about COVID-19 were positively correlated to fear of childbirth. Conclusions: Childbirth fear among Asian women is greatly influenced by various psycho-social factors. More culturally driven research is needed to help develop relevant interventions that will enhance maternal psychological and spiritual well-being and reduce the fear of childbirth.},
}

@article {pmid40646438,
year = {2025},
author = {Valkanas, H and McFadden, K and Mignacca, I and Qi, X and Jordan, M and Bayoumi, I and Li, P},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 era on preventative primary care for children 0-5 years old: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC primary care},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {221},
pmid = {40646438},
issn = {2731-4553},
support = {#6035080/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; #6035080/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; #6035080/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; #6035080/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; #6035080/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Infant ; Child, Preschool ; *Primary Health Care/statistics & numerical data ; Infant, Newborn ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Developmental Disabilities ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Restrictions to routine preventative primary care well child visits (WCV) during COVID-19 may have affected a variety of outcomes for young children including growth, development, and the identification and management of developmental delays. To better understand the effect of the pandemic on these outcomes, we conducted a scoping review of studies published between March 2020 and April 2024. The objectives of this scoping review were to determine the impact of the COVID-19 era on WCV attendance and developmental outcomes in children 0-5 years old.

RESULTS: 23 articles met inclusion criteria. Most studies were conducted in the U.S. The overall COVID-19 era WCV rate was lower compared to pre-COVID visit rates. Higher rates of missed WCVs and reduced access were reported for racialized children and those from families with lower socioeconomic status. Studies measuring developmental outcomes found associations between children born during the pandemic and increased rates of expressive language delays, decreased personal-social skills, increased delays in achieving verbal, motor, and overall cognitive performance milestones, increased externalizing behaviours, and decreased prosocial behaviour. No study examined the impact of WCV attendance rates on developmental outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: During the COVID-19 pandemic, infants, toddlers, and young children attended fewer preventative primary care visits and pandemic-born children were more likely to show signs of developmental delay. This review highlights the need for further research to better understand the longitudinal impact of reduced access to preventative primary care and child health outcomes, including the early detection of, and referral for, developmental delays.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Infant
Child, Preschool
*Primary Health Care/statistics & numerical data
Infant, Newborn
SARS-CoV-2
Developmental Disabilities

@article {pmid40645979,
year = {2025},
author = {Ryu, JO and Seong, YJ and Lee, E and Lee, SY and Lee, DW},
title = {Applications and research trends in organoid based infectious disease models.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {25185},
pmid = {40645979},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {RS-2024-00453887//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; RS-2023-00212410//the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT)/ ; RS-2024-00332142//ministry of food and drug safety/ ; RS-2023-00222910//the Bio & Medical Technology Development Program of the National Research Foundation (NRF) funded by the Korean government (MSIT)/ ; },
mesh = {*Organoids/virology/pathology/cytology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Models, Biological ; Animals ; *Communicable Diseases ; Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells/cytology ; },
abstract = {Recently, three-dimensional (3D) cell culture technology has been developing rapidly, and disease-specific organoid models that can simulate human diseases are being developed. These models are being studied as a valuable tool that can be applied to pathogen biology research and drug screening analysis platforms to obtain fast, reliable, and reproducible results. Organoids are 3D cell aggregates formed from embryonic stem cells (ESCs), adult stem cells (ASCs), or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) through self-renewal and self-organization. They are also called mini-organs and have a structure and function similar to those of real organs, providing a more physiologically relevant model compared to traditional 2D cultures. In particular, due to the recent epidemics of infectious diseases such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), many studies are using organoids for infectious disease research, enabling more accurate pathogen-host interaction modeling. In this review, we briefly introduce organoids and discuss research trends in developing organoid-based models of infectious diseases, focusing on organoids derived from the brain, liver, intestines, lung, kidney, skin, and blood vessels. These models hold significant potential for advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and therapeutic development.},
}

*Organoids/virology/pathology/cytology
Humans
*COVID-19/virology/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
*Models, Biological
Animals
*Communicable Diseases
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells/cytology

@article {pmid40645921,
year = {2025},
author = {Gurley, ES and Plowright, RK},
title = {A Roadmap of Primary Pandemic Prevention Through Spillover Investigation.},
journal = {Emerging infectious diseases},
volume = {31},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3201/eid3108.250442},
pmid = {40645921},
issn = {1080-6059},
abstract = {Since the COVID-19 pandemic, attention and investment in pandemic preparedness have increased. Although there are many valiant plans around pandemic preparedness, they typically involve slowing the spread or mitigating the effects of a pathogen after it has already entered the human population. The task of stopping the pathogen from entering the human population in the first place, spillover prevention, remains a neglected area in discussions and planning for pandemic risk mitigation. Every spillover offers an opportunity to learn about an emerging public health threat and the conditions that aligned to enable spillover occurrence. In this article, we outline One Health approaches for use in spillover investigations, drawing from our experience investigating Hendra and Nipah virus spillovers. We present a roadmap for how findings from those investigations can lead to the development of interventions for spillover and ultimately pandemic prevention.},
}

@article {pmid40644863,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, X and Shao, M and Liu, Y and Zhou, J and Cao, F and Liu, Y and Qiu, G and Jiang, T and Huang, M and Zhang, L},
title = {Role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in sepsis and its therapeutic targets.},
journal = {International immunopharmacology},
volume = {162},
number = {},
pages = {115192},
doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2025.115192},
pmid = {40644863},
issn = {1878-1705},
abstract = {An imbalance in the host's response to infection causes sepsis, a potentially fatal condition. Sepsis may advance to septic shock, organ dysfunction (including the brain, liver, lung, kidney, and heart), skeletal muscle atrophy, and an array of severe complications. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) undergoes significant alterations during sepsis, and the expression of its principal bioactive components is closely associated with the prognosis of patients with sepsis. Targeting RAAS may offer an effective approach to managing sepsis and its complications. Consequently, this review primarily summarizes the impact of sepsis on the activity and expression of key RAAS components in the circulation and tissues. We also discuss the effects and mechanisms of selectively modulating the RAAS in the context of sepsis and its associated complications. Furthermore, we introduce innovative perspectives on the precise regulation of the RAAS with the aim of optimizing treatment strategies tailored to different stages of sepsis and diverse complications.},
}

@article {pmid40643565,
year = {2025},
author = {Jeeves, SP and Kotwa, JD and Pearl, DL and Pickering, BS and Bowman, J and Mubareka, S and Jardine, CM},
title = {Coronaviruses in wild rodent and eulipotyphlan small mammals: a review of diversity, ecological implications and surveillance considerations.},
journal = {The Journal of general virology},
volume = {106},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/jgv.0.002130},
pmid = {40643565},
issn = {1465-2099},
mesh = {Animals ; *Coronavirus/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/veterinary/epidemiology/transmission ; *Rodentia/virology ; Humans ; Host Specificity ; Phylogeny ; Animals, Wild/virology ; Chiroptera/virology ; *Mammals/virology ; },
abstract = {Coronaviruses are abundant and diverse RNA viruses with broad vertebrate host ranges. These viruses include agents of human seasonal respiratory illness, such as human coronaviruses OC43 and HKU1; important pathogens of livestock and domestic animals such as swine acute diarrhoea syndrome coronavirus and feline coronavirus; and human pathogens of epidemic potential such as SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. Most coronavirus surveillance has been conducted in bat species. However, small terrestrial mammals such as rodents and eulipotyphlans are important hosts of coronaviruses as well. Although fewer studies of rodent and eulipotyphlan coronaviruses exist compared to those of bats, notable diversity of coronaviruses has been reported in the former. No literature synthesis for this area of research has been completed despite (a) growing evidence for a small mammal origin of certain human coronaviruses and (b) global abundance of small mammal species. In this review, we present an overview of the current state of coronavirus research in wild terrestrial small mammals. We conducted a literature search for studies that investigated coronaviruses infecting rodent and eulipotyphlan hosts, which returned 63 studies published up to and including 2024. We describe trends in coronavirus diversity and surveillance for these studies. To further the examination of the interrelatedness of these viruses, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis of coronavirus whole genomes recovered from rodent and eulipotyphlan hosts. We discuss important facets of terrestrial small mammal coronaviruses, including evolutionary aspects and zoonotic spillover risk. Lastly, we present important recommendations and considerations for further surveillance and viral characterization efforts in this field.},
}

Animals
*Coronavirus/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/veterinary/epidemiology/transmission
*Rodentia/virology
Humans
Host Specificity
Phylogeny
Animals, Wild/virology
Chiroptera/virology
*Mammals/virology

@article {pmid40643301,
year = {2025},
author = {Beka, SG and Griffiths, RF and Myers, JA and Skirrow, PM},
title = {Appropriate Screening Tests to Assess Post-COVID-19 Cognitive Dysfunction in Aeromedical Settings.},
journal = {Aerospace medicine and human performance},
volume = {96},
number = {5},
pages = {414-424},
doi = {10.3357/AMHP.6500.2025},
pmid = {40643301},
issn = {2375-6322},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/psychology ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/etiology ; *Pilots/psychology ; *Aerospace Medicine ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Mass Screening ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Post-COVID-19, 10-20% of individuals may experience long-term symptoms (some having cognitive deficits), even after mild or nonsymptomatic infection. A sufficiently sensitive screening test of cognitive function, based on the typical cognitive effects of COVID-19 and skills considered most relevant to pilot performance, would be highly beneficial to be used alongside other performance checks. This study aimed to identify appropriate screening tests for post-COVID-19 cognitive dysfunction.

METHODS: Initially, a systematic search and narrative review identified 13 screening tools that are likely to be effective in screening pilots for post-COVID-19 neurocognitive impairment. Following a more in-depth evaluation of the identified tools, five tests including the Trail Making Test, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, Stroop Color Word Test, Psychomotor Vigilance Test, and Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test were chosen for a Delphi evaluation exercise. A two-round modified Delphi process was undertaken with international aviation medicine and psychology experts to obtain a consensus on which of the identified tests would be appropriate to screen for cognitive dysfunction in pilots.

RESULTS: Based on evaluation of literature review findings and Delphi consultation with subject matter experts, the Trail Making Test and Symbol Digit Modalities Test were identified as quick and suitable screening tests likely to detect post-COVID-19 cognitive dysfunction.

DISCUSSION: These tools are objective, have good utility, are available in multiple versions, and assess cognitive abilities relevant to pilot performance. Their use for screening in aeromedical examinations would be further supported by confirming their ability to reliably detect neurocognitive impacts associated with COVID-19. Beka SG, Griffiths RF, Myers JA, Skirrow PM. Appropriate screening tests to assess post-COVID-19 cognitive dysfunction in aeromedical settings. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2025; 96(5):414-424.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/psychology
*Cognitive Dysfunction/diagnosis/etiology
*Pilots/psychology
*Aerospace Medicine
*Neuropsychological Tests
SARS-CoV-2
Mass Screening

@article {pmid40642339,
year = {2025},
author = {Rahimian, A and Askari, H and Nabati, A and Aminian, M},
title = {A Roadmap for the Application of Convalescent Plasma and Hyperimmune Globulins in Emerging Viral Outbreaks.},
journal = {TheScientificWorldJournal},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {9976167},
pmid = {40642339},
issn = {1537-744X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology ; COVID-19 Serotherapy ; *Immunization, Passive/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {The outbreak of COVID-19 took the world by surprise and dealt a serious blow to the global economy. Even today, few drugs against SARS-CoV-2 infection have been proven useful, and repurposing existing antiviral therapies remains a major research area in the treatment of the disease. During previous viral outbreaks, therapies using convalescent plasma and related products have repeatedly been used as empirical approaches. Rapid preparation of convalescent plasma and hyperimmune globulins (hIVIGs) makes these two treatment options useful in dealing with outbreaks of emerging diseases. The current study presents a systematic roadmap concerning the guidelines, criteria, and regulations involved in plasma transfusion and the preparation of hIVIGs applicable to possible future viral outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology
COVID-19 Serotherapy
*Immunization, Passive/methods
SARS-CoV-2
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control

@article {pmid40642279,
year = {2025},
author = {Momeni Moghaddam, A and Rastkar, M and Soltanzadi, A and Vaheb, S and Ghajarzadeh, M},
title = {Incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse after COVID-19 infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Caspian journal of internal medicine},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {192-197},
pmid = {40642279},
issn = {2008-6164},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 could exacerbate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Literature shows an increase in the incidence of relapse in patients with MS after COVID-19. We designed this systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the pooled incidence of MS-relapse after COVID-19.

METHODS: We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google scholar. Gray literature including references of the references and conference abstracts were also searched to find relevant articles. We extracted data regarding the total number of participants, the name of the first author, publication year, country of origin, mean age, mean disease duration, mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and the number of patients with relapse after COVID.

RESULTS: A literature search revealed 5160 articles, after deleting duplicates, 2270 remained. After careful evaluation of the full texts, twelve studies were included for meta-analysis. Totally, 1595 patients with MS who had a history of COVID-19 were evaluated. Most studies were done in Iran. The mean age of included patients ranged between 35 and 49 years, and mean durations of the disease were between 7and 15.4 years. The incidence of relapse ranged between 2% and 20% in included studies.The pooled incidence of relapse after COVID-19 was 7% (95%CI:5-10%) (I2=64%, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis show that the pooled incidence of MS-related relapse after COVID-19 is 7%.},
}

@article {pmid40642209,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, M and Hu, X and Wu, H and Fan, H},
title = {Narcolepsy: a machine learning bibliometric analysis (1996-2024).},
journal = {Frontiers in neurology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1505574},
pmid = {40642209},
issn = {1664-2295},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Narcolepsy is a rare neurological cause of chronic sleepiness. This study aimed to better understand global narcolepsy through bibliometric analysis.

METHODS: Articles and reviews on narcolepsy were sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection. A bibliometric analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel, Python, CiteSpace, VOSviewer, R (bibliometrix), and the Online Analysis Platform of Literature Metrology to assess publication outputs, countries, institutions, authors, journals, co-cited references, and keywords.

RESULTS: The analysis included 5,215 publications, with citations significantly increasing from 1996 to 2024. The USA led in publications, while the top institutions were Stanford University, INSERM, and Université de Montpellier. Key authors like Professors Plazzi G, Mignot E, and Dauvilliers Y greatly contributed to the field through numerous publications and high citation rates. Sleep published the most articles, followed by Sleep Medicine. Keyword analysis indicated a shift toward molecular mechanisms, comorbidities, and diagnosis. Recent interest has surged in medications for excessive daytime sleepiness, such as "Pitolisant", "Modafinil" and "Sodium Oxybate" along with the relationship between narcolepsy and COVID-19.

CONCLUSION: "Pitolisant," "Modafinil," and "Sodium Oxybate" have gained prominence in narcolepsy treatment. This study also highlights common comorbidities linked to narcolepsy, including "obstructive sleep apnea", "epilepsy" and "atrial fibrillation" driving researchers to explore these conditions to improve the quality of life for affected individuals. However, the interactions between key neurotransmitters in narcolepsy are still unclear, and challenges remain regarding factors that complicate drug therapy efficacy, necessitating further investigation.},
}

@article {pmid40642004,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, F and Ge, R and Cai, Y and Zhao, M and Fang, Z and Li, J and Xie, C and Wang, M and Li, W and Wang, X},
title = {Oxidative stress in ARDS: mechanisms and therapeutic potential.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1603287},
pmid = {40642004},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition characterized by acute lung inflammation, increased vascular permeability, and hypoxemic respiratory failure. Oxidative stress, driven by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), is a key contributor to ARDS pathogenesis, causing cellular damage, inflammation, and alveolar-capillary barrier disruption. This review elucidates the mechanisms of oxidative stress in ARDS, focusing on ROS production via NADPH oxidase (NOX) and mitochondria, which activate pathways like NF-κB and MAPK, promoting pro-inflammatory cytokine release. ROS-induced lipid and protein peroxidation, endothelial dysfunction, and programmed cell death (PCD), including apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, exacerbate lung injury. In COVID-19-related ARDS, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein amplifies mitochondrial ROS, worsening outcomes. Antioxidant therapies falter due to non-specific ROS suppression, patient heterogeneity (e.g., GSTP1 polymorphisms), and poor bioavailability. We propose a model where oxidative stress drives ARDS stages-early alveolar injury and late systemic dysfunction-suggesting targeted therapies like endothelial-specific nanoparticles or ferroptosis inhibitors. Precision medicine using biomarkers (e.g., mtDNA) and gender-specific approaches (e.g., estrogen-Nrf2 regulation) could enhance outcomes. This review bridges mechanistic gaps, critiques therapeutic failures, and advocates novel strategies like mitochondrial-targeted therapies to improve ARDS management.},
}

@article {pmid40641675,
year = {2025},
author = {Schmeyers, L and Thomschke, S and Mende, LV and Stichel, G and Schiller, D and Fleßa, S},
title = {Economic methods and spatial scales in One Health: Results from a scoping review.},
journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {101115},
pmid = {40641675},
issn = {2352-7714},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 and other zoonoses indicate the close connection between human, animal, and environmental health. This interdependency underscores the need for a comprehensive One Health approach. However, the One Health concept is sometimes reduced to combating zoonoses and antimicrobial resistance, neglecting the spatial and environmental dimensions. This narrow focus overlooks the potential of One Health in geographic contexts, where it can optimize health within regional ecosystems. Therefore, this paper aims to provide an overview of geographic contexts and economic approaches to measuring One Health and the importance of these factors for effective health outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A comprehensive search for economic evidence and the geographical scope of One Health was conducted. The search terms 'One Health', combined with 'region, landscape, area, geography, cost, economics, utility,' were used in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. Articles were screened by two blinded reviewers. Year, author, economic method, intervention, outcome, study aim, topic, and geographical area of the articles were recorded.

RESULTS: 1214 articles were retrieved and 108 were included in this analysis. The topics focused on: zoonoses (56 %), antimicrobial resistance (14 %), food safety/security (7 %), animal welfare (6 %), and governance (6 %). Most studies were conducted in African countries, the majority of studies (57 %) adopted a regional perspective, while 19 % employed a national and 13 % adopted a multi-country perspective. The most common economic approaches were mixed methods and CEA, regression analysis, as well as index methods.

DISCUSSION: The analyzed articles largely focus on zoonoses and current measurement instruments that do not yet align with the requirements of the One Health Joint Plan of Action 2022-26. Integrating geographical considerations promises a more comprehensive and effective approach to One Health challenges. The diversity of identified measurement instruments provides a valuable foundation for developing future, context-sensitive One Health strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40641674,
year = {2025},
author = {Peng, Y and Ke, Y and Cai, R and Lv, B and Liu, S and Liu, Y and Li, X and Song, H and Chen, Q},
title = {Post-pandemic one health: Unpacking the role of greenspaces and human-dog interactions in long-term health and well-being.},
journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {101116},
pmid = {40641674},
issn = {2352-7714},
abstract = {The social isolation measures implemented during the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 have had lasting effects on public health and well-being. In response, a growing body of discourse has emerged to examine the long-term impacts of the pandemic on human health and welfare. Addressing these complex challenges requires innovative, interdisciplinary approaches grounded in a conceptual framework that integrates perspectives from both the social and natural sciences. At the intersection of human-animal-green space interactions, the One Health framework has become a prominent driver of holistic health research. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive reviews on how this framework has been applied to investigate the interconnected health and well-being outcomes associated with these dynamics. To fill this gap, the present study conducted a systematic scoping review to identify patterns, gaps, and key themes in the literature, while outlining priorities and considerations for future research. Following standardized PRISMA guidelines, the review employed clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, along with dual-reviewer screening and data extraction procedures. A total of 29 studies were included, all of which directly or indirectly utilized the One Health framework. These studies were categorized into two primary thematic areas: (1) the role of green spaces in promoting human health in the post-pandemic context, and (2) emotional interactions between humans and animals during the pandemic. A notable trend in the literature is the incorporation of the Sense of Coherence as a key dimension of health and well-being within the One Health framework, highlighting the potential of human-dog-green space interactions to contribute meaningfully to salutogenic health processes. The limited number of studies identified also reflects the current underrepresentation of well-being as a core pillar within established One Health research. Based on existing evidence, this review provides a foundational reference for researchers seeking to explore health and well-being through a One Health perspective. It offers guidance for future investigations into the synergistic effects of human-dog-green space interactions on well-being, and proposes data-driven interventions and policy recommendations to address both general health outcomes and the prolonged effects of COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40640180,
year = {2025},
author = {Guo, Y and Pan, N and Zou, Y and Long, Y and Zhang, X and Li, Q and Suo, X and Singh, MK and Wang, S and Gong, Q},
title = {Neuroimaging insights into the psychosocial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.},
journal = {Translational psychiatry},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {236},
pmid = {40640180},
issn = {2158-3188},
support = {82027808//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Mental Disorders/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; *Neuroimaging ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented threat to global health. However, neural substrates underlying mental health vulnerabilities brought by the pandemic remain elusive. We conducted a systematic review relating structural and functional brain abnormalities to mental health issues associated with COVID-19 at brain regional and network levels. A literature search on neuroimaging studies of mental health problems derived by COVID-19 was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science and MEDLINE databases. We identified 46 studies across various imaging techniques and found that COVID-19-related mental health problems were principally associated with brain structural and functional alterations in the prefrontal cortex, insula, cingulate, hippocampus, and amygdala, as well as the affective cortical network. This review may facilitate the targeted development of therapies tailored to the pandemic context and provide insights for proactive prevention against future collective stressors and traumas.},
}

Humans
*Brain/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology
*COVID-19/psychology
*Mental Disorders/diagnostic imaging/etiology
*Neuroimaging
Pandemics

@article {pmid40639355,
year = {2025},
author = {Rengarajan, A and Bazarbashi, AN and Gyawali, CP},
title = {PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ACHALASIA.},
journal = {Digestion},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1159/000547354},
pmid = {40639355},
issn = {1421-9867},
abstract = {Achalasia is a rare primary esophageal motility disorder of the esophageal smooth muscle, characterized by abnormal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and associated with abnormal, spastic or absent esophageal body peristalsis. The primary pathophysiological defect is abnormal esophageal inhibitory nerve function from neuronal death in the esophageal neuronal plexuses and ganglia that control esophageal smooth muscle peristalsis. This is a consequence of an autoimmune cytotoxic insult from molecular mimicry following an intercurrent viral infection, typically herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster virus, human papilloma virus, measles virus, and even the COVID-19 virus. Neuronal inflammation rather than death can lead to imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory forces, and varying degrees of retained spastic, premature or even normal peristalsis in the smooth muscle esophageal body. Chagas disease caused by trypanosoma cruzi, eosinophilic inflammation, direct infiltration with neoplastic cells from adjacent cancers, or humoral autoimmune destruction from distant cancers can also result in an achalasia-like syndrome. Mechanical obstruction from tight strictures, anti-reflux or bariatric surgery and extrinsic compression can mimic the manometric features of achalasia. Chronic opioid medication usage can result in a clinical and pathophysiological syndrome identical to spastic achalasia. Careful clinical evaluation, and judicious interpretation of esophageal function tests following pathophysiological principles can lead to an accurate diagnosis of achalasia, opening the door to durable permanent disruption of the malfunctioning esophageal smooth muscle, and resulting in symptom relief.},
}

@article {pmid40638063,
year = {2025},
author = {Hinzpeter, EL and Kairies-Schwarz, N and Beaudart, C and Douxfils, J and Nayak, D and Hiligsmann, M},
title = {A Systematic Review of Discrete Choice Experiments on Preferences for COVID-19 Vaccinations.},
journal = {The patient},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40638063},
issn = {1178-1661},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced vaccination strategies and public health policies. Discrete choice experiments have emerged as a valuable tool for understanding preferences regarding vaccination. This study systematically reviews discrete choice experiments conducted on COVID-19 public vaccination preferences to identify key determinants influencing vaccine uptake and to assess methodological approaches used in these studies.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify discrete choice experiments focusing on COVID-19 vaccination preferences up to 31 December, 2024. Attribute categorization into five dimensions Outcome, Process, Cost, Trust, and Framing was performed and quality appraised according to the DIRECT checklist. Conditional relative importance as well as geographical differences were assessed.

RESULTS: The review identified 58 studies employing discrete choice experiments that assessed public COVID-19 vaccine preferences. Among attribute categories, outcome-related factors were the most frequently used and had the highest relative importance. Other commonly evaluated attributes included cost, origin/brand, and required doses. A notable geographic disparity was observed, with studies being unevenly distributed across different regions. Methodological heterogeneity was observed in attribute selection and experimental design.

CONCLUSIONS: This review emphasizes the importance of considering individual preferences into vaccination strategies to enhance uptake, particularly in preparation for future pandemics. The findings reveal that vaccine effectiveness and safety are key concerns for individuals. Future research could focus on increasing representation of underexamined regions in preference studies to better inform local policymakers in developing effective vaccination programs for future health crises.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: This review was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) with the ID CRD42025543234.},
}

@article {pmid40636277,
year = {2025},
author = {Tralongo, P and Ballato, M and Fiorentino, V and Giordano, WG and Zuccalà, V and Pizzimenti, C and Bakacs, A and Ieni, A and Tuccari, G and Fadda, G and Larocca, LM and Martini, M},
title = {Cuproptosis: A Review on Mechanisms, Role in Solid and Hematological Tumors, and Association with Viral Infections.},
journal = {Mediterranean journal of hematology and infectious diseases},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {e2025052},
pmid = {40636277},
issn = {2035-3006},
abstract = {Cuproptosis is a distinct modality of regulated cell death precipitated by an overload of intracellular copper, critically dependent on mitochondrial respiration. The underlying mechanism involves the direct interaction of copper ions with lipoylated components integral to the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. This binding event triggers the aggregation of these proteins, induces significant proteotoxic stress, and leads to the depletion of essential iron-sulfur cluster proteins, culminating in cell demise. Given that copper homeostasis is frequently dysregulated within cancer cells, rendering them potentially more susceptible to copper-induced toxicity, cuproptosis has rapidly become a focal point of oncological research. This systematic review meticulously analyzes and synthesizes findings from a curated collection of 45 research articles. It aims to provide a comprehensive description of the molecular intricacies of cuproptosis, explore its documented associations with a spectrum of solid tumors (including gastric, lung, liver, neuroblastoma, and ovarian cancers) and lymphoma, and examine its emerging connections with viral infections like COVID-19 and pseudorabies virus. The review elaborates on the reported prognostic significance of cuproptosis-related genes and associated pathways across various malignancies. Furthermore, it details the burgeoning therapeutic strategies designed to harness cuproptosis, encompassing the application of copper ionophores, the development of sophisticated nanomedicine platforms, and synergistic approaches that combine cuproptosis induction with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or sonodynamic therapy. The potential clinical utility of cuproptosis-associated biomarkers for predicting patient prognosis and therapeutic response is discussed based on the evidence presented in the reviewed literature.},
}

@article {pmid40636108,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, C and Niu, C and Li, X and He, K and Li, M and Gao, X and Wei, Q and Sun, W and Zhao, Y and Li, Y and Xia, X and Ren, Z and Li, X and Wang, T},
title = {Progress in combination vaccines and the co-administration of influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1578733},
pmid = {40636108},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Animals ; Vaccines, Combined/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Coinfection/prevention & control/immunology ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 and seasonal influenza have taken a huge toll on the global economy and global health. Given the potential of COVID-19 to transform into a chronic epidemic akin to seasonal influenza, the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 will continue to be a significant threat to healthcare for some time to come. Coinfection involving the two viruses has been proven to worsen the severity of the illness, as evidenced by clinical observational data. Vaccination remains the most effective measure in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. In addition, the coadministration of influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines offered greater benefits than either vaccine alone. Combination vaccines are also a major hotspot in novel vaccine development. This review highlights the advancements in the development of combined vaccines for COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, as demonstrated in animal studies and clinical trials, and emphasizes the importance of a combined vaccine.},
}

Humans
*Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Animals
Vaccines, Combined/immunology/administration & dosage
*Coinfection/prevention & control/immunology
Clinical Trials as Topic

@article {pmid40635758,
year = {2025},
author = {Pan, J and Lin, S and Qian, Q and Fu, S and Liu, X},
title = {Gut-brain axis in post-traumatic stress disorder: microbial - mediated mechanisms and new therapeutic approaches - A narrative review.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1621678},
pmid = {40635758},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental disorder that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Not only does this disorder severely impair the quality of life and emotional wellbeing of patients, but in recent years the global rate of PTSD diagnoses has increased to 1.5-2 times, and the prevalence of PTSD associated with COVID-19 events in particular has surged to 10%-25%, underscoring the urgency of developing effective treatments. The lifetime prevalence of PTSD in the general population is estimated to be approximately 3.9%, while in high-risk populations, such as war veterans, it can be as high as 30%. As a key pathway connecting the central nervous system to peripheral organs, the gut-brain axis has received increasing attention for its role in PTSD. Although the gut-brain axis has been shown to be associated with several psychiatric disorders, especially depression, its specific role in PTSD remains undercharacterized. Existing studies suggest that specific strains of Lactobacillus (e.g., Lactobacillus reuteri) may alleviate inflammatory responses and improve PTSD-like behaviors by down-regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNF-α). In this study, we used a narrative review approach to sort out the research progress of gut microbiota alteration in PTSD, and compared the characteristics of changes in specific microbial taxa (e.g., Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, etc.), the index of microbiota diversity (α/β diversity), and the levels of inflammatory markers (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) between the animal model and the human patients, respectively, in order to We further explored the potential pathogenic mechanisms mediated by microorganisms, such as influencing the vagal pathway, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, immune system and other processes involved in the pathology of PTSD, and summarized the intervention strategies targeting gut microecology, such as probiotic supplementation, dietary interventions and fecal bacteria transplantation.},
}

@article {pmid40634987,
year = {2025},
author = {Ayo-Farai, O and Gopep, N and Alarape-Raji, A and Adnan, H and Ahmed, M and Arif, R and Kashif, E and Oduoye, MO and Haider, MU},
title = {Exploring co-infection dynamics and immune response interactions between COVID-19 and Monkeypox: implications for disease severity, viral transmission, and vaccine efficacy.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {230},
pmid = {40634987},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology/virology ; *Coinfection/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Mpox, Monkeypox/immunology/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology/virology ; Vaccine Efficacy ; Severity of Illness Index ; Male ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and Monkeypox (Mpox) are viral infections that have similar modes of presentation, diagnosis and treatment strategies. Understanding their co-infection dynamics and immune response is important for public health policies.

AIM: This article aims to determine the relationship between dynamicity and immune response interactions between Mpox and COVID-19, focusing more on the implications for disease severity, viral transmission, and vaccine efficacy.

METHODOLOGY: An extensive literature review was conducted through electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science from the last decade (2014-2024) using keywords: COVID-19, Co-infections, Immune response, Monkeypox, and Vaccination.

RESULTS: Several co-infections between COVID-19 and Mpox have been reported, especially a case from Florida, in the United States of America (USA), in Barcelona, Spain (a 56-year-old man who suffered both Mpox and COVID-19 and syphilis simultaneously, and from Italy (a 36-year-old male). Both COVID-19 and Mpox have been shown to have some effects on the immunity of a person, especially the innate system, which can occasionally produce inadvertent effects. A common factor that links the two diseases is the endoglycosidase named Heparanase (HPSE). Both COVID-19 and Mpox clinical features have bizarre severity and complications. The rising co-infection of COVID-19 and increased Mpox infection rate has led to the development of only approved vaccines JYNNEOS and COH04S1.

CONCLUSION: Global efforts such as adequate awareness campaigns through webinars, social media platforms, and research, including experimental studies, cohort studies, case series, etc., should be put in place to give more insights into both diseases. Such efforts should be backed up with good political will, adequate funding, the establishment of research facilities and interprofessional measures among the concerned countries and policymakers in the world.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology/virology
*Coinfection/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Mpox, Monkeypox/immunology/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology/virology
Vaccine Efficacy
Severity of Illness Index
Male
Middle Aged

@article {pmid39873953,
year = {2025},
author = {Kerpel-Fronius, S and Becker, AL and , },
title = {The Value and Importance of a Professional Ethical Code for Medicines Development: IFAPP International Ethics Framework.},
journal = {Pharmaceutical medicine},
volume = {39},
number = {4},
pages = {249-257},
pmid = {39873953},
issn = {1179-1993},
mesh = {Humans ; *Codes of Ethics ; *Drug Development/ethics ; Drug Industry/ethics ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {Pharmaceutical medicine professionals have to face many ethical problems during the entire life span of new medicines extending from animal studies to broad clinical practice. The primary aim of the general ethical principles governing research conducted in humans is to diminish the physical and psychological burdens of the participants in human drug studies but overlooks many additional social and ethical problems faced by medicine developers. These arise mainly at the interface connecting the profit-oriented pharmaceutical industry and the healthcare-centered medical profession cooperating in medicines development. In 2002, the International Federation of Associations of Pharmaceutical Physicians and Pharmaceutical Medicine developed the International Code of Ethical Conduct for Pharmaceutical Physicians for providing ethical advice for their members to manage the frequently competitive goals characteristic for their specialty. The ethical framework compiled by the International Federation of Associations of Pharmaceutical Physicians and Pharmaceutical Medicine serves its members by presenting morally acceptable or inacceptable behaviors in frequently encountered controversies arising from competing industrial and healthcare interests in medicines development. The authors selected this format to encourage reflection and debate for finding optimal moral conclusions in specific issues. Many recent examples of serious scientific-ethical misconduct, such as the oxycodone tragedy, the recommendations of unproven useless occasionally dangerous therapies during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, and the withdrawal of many papers containing non-reproducible results, contributed to the increasing loss of trust by the public in science including pharmaceutical medicine. We are convinced that the ethical guidance developed by the International Federation of Associations of Pharmaceutical Physicians and Pharmaceutical Medicine will encourage its members to reflect intensively on optimal ethical behavior in drug development for strengthening the trust of society in innovative new medicines. Finally, considering the increasingly active participation of non-medically trained scientists in producing and applying complex biological medicines, distant monitoring methods coupled together with artificial intelligence technology in innovative clinical trials, the Ethics Working Group recommended already in 2017 measures to optimize their smooth cooperation and underlined their joint ethical responsibilities in guarding the safety and human dignity of trial participants.},
}

Humans
*Codes of Ethics
*Drug Development/ethics
Drug Industry/ethics
COVID-19

@article {pmid40633919,
year = {2025},
author = {Ivanova, J and Ong, T and Wilczewski, H and Cummins, M and Soni, H and Barrera, J and Welch, B and Bunnell, B},
title = {Mental Health Care Guidelines for Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Scoping Review.},
journal = {JMIR mental health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e56534},
doi = {10.2196/56534},
pmid = {40633919},
issn = {2368-7959},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *Telemedicine/standards ; *Mental Health Services/standards ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mental health care providers have widely adopted telemedicine since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some providers have reported difficulties in implementing telemedicine and are still assessing its sustainability for their practices. Recommendations, best practices, and guidelines for telemedicine-based mental health care (ie, telemental health care [TMH]) have been published, but the nature and extent of this guidance have not been assessed.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine (1) the form of TMH guidelines and recommendations presented to providers, (2) the most commonly presented recommendations and guidelines, and (3) the perceived benefits and challenges of these TMH guidelines and recommendations.

METHODS: Through our scoping review of practice guidelines, we aimed to identify themes in TMH guidelines and clinical recommendations published between 2020 and 2024 in peer-reviewed journals. This review focused on the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic to identify and characterize the available TMH guidance. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE and ScienceDirect for articles in peer-reviewed journals published between January 1, 2020, and July 16, 2024. We included articles that were available in English and presented recommendations, best practices, or guidelines for TMH. We excluded duplicates, articles unrelated to telehealth, brief editorial introductions, and those not publicly available. We applied the Healthcare Provider Taxonomy of the National Uniform Claim Committee to article titles and abstracts to identify records relevant to mental health. We used content and thematic analyses to identify key themes.

RESULTS: Of the 1348 articles retrieved, we identified 76 that matched our criteria. Through content and thematic analyses, we identified 3 main themes-along with subthemes and topics-related to Facilitators, Concerns, and Changes Advised. The majority of articles called for further research (59/76) and for telemental health education and innovation in some form (43/76) regarding advised changes. Twenty-four articles included specific guidelines, recommendations, or checklists for providers.

CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight the need for further large-scale research to support the development of effective guidelines and protocols for therapy plans. Although TMH care is widespread, scholarly work emphasizes the need for a stronger evidence base that includes testing protocols in diverse settings and populations. The results also underscore the importance of increasing health professionals' knowledge of regulatory compliance and providing them with adequate TMH practice education.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
*Telemedicine/standards
*Mental Health Services/standards
*Practice Guidelines as Topic
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40633841,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Ji, X and Huang, D and Lu, G and Chen, X},
title = {The Coronavirus 3CL protease: Unveiling Its Complex Host Interactions and Central Role in Viral Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Virologica Sinica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.virs.2025.07.002},
pmid = {40633841},
issn = {1995-820X},
abstract = {The 3CL protease, a highly conserved enzyme in the coronavirus, plays a crucial role in the viral life cycle by facilitating viral replication through precise cleavage of polyproteins. Beyond its proteolytic function, the 3CL protease also engages in intricate interactions with host cell proteins involved in critical cellular processes such as transcription, translation, and nuclear-cytoplasmic transport, effectively hijacking cellular machinery to promote viral replication. Additionally, it disrupts innate immune signaling pathways, suppresses interferon activity and cleaves antiviral proteins. Furthermore, it modulates host cell death pathways including pyroptosis and apoptosis, interferes with autophagy and inhibits stress granule formation to maintain viral infection and exacerbate viral pathogenesis. This review highlights the molecular mechanisms by which the 3CL protease orchestrates virus-host interactions, emphasizing its central role in coronavirus pathogenesis and highlighting potential therapeutic targets for future interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40633204,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, T and Ye, Y and Fan, Z and Yang, Q and Ma, Y and Zhu, J},
title = {Respiratory mucosal vaccines: Applications, delivery strategies and design considerations.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {189},
number = {},
pages = {118326},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2025.118326},
pmid = {40633204},
issn = {1950-6007},
abstract = {Respiratory mucosal vaccines represent a groundbreaking and promising route to trigger both local and systemic immune responses by mimicking the natural cause of infection, offering great potential for fighting against pathogens and limiting their transmission at entry sites, particularly effective for infectious diseases like Influenza virus and Coronavirus. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advance and current landscape of vaccines by mucosal routes, with an emphasis on their design, engineering, and delivery mechanisms across various vaccine platforms. Particular attention is given to the emerging advanced technologies, exosome and lipid nanoparticle vaccine delivery systems. The critical design considerations of mucosal vaccines are highlighted for engineering safe and efficacious mucosal vaccines, proving meaningful insights on the engineering of safe and effective mucosal vaccines. We foresee a promising future for respiratory mucosal vaccines in their translation into clinical applications, ultimately bringing benefits to human individuals.},
}

@article {pmid40632470,
year = {2025},
author = {Nairz, M and Weiss, G},
title = {How to identify respiratory pathogens in primary health care - a review on the benefits, prospects and pitfalls in using point of care tests.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40632470},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Respiratory tract infections are among the most common reasons for consultations in primary health care (PHC) settings. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of diagnostic tests for selected respiratory pathogens useful in PHC.

METHODS: We performed a PubMed search on diagnostic tests for influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Streptococcus pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Bordetella pertussis. We then selected and summarized clinical trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews published between May 1994 and April 2025 relevant to PHC.

RESULTS: Diagnostic tests are useful if the test result will guide subsequent clinical management. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests have high diagnostic accuracy but are not always available in PHC. Accurate rapid antigen detections tests (RADTs) are required to have a sensitivity of at least 80% and a specificity of at least 97% and are available for influenza virus, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 as are urinary antigen tests for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Legionella pneumophila. In contrast, due to the lack of appropriate RADTs, infections with Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Bordetella pertussis typically require PCR tests.

CONCLUSION: From a clinical perspective, the differentiation between viral and bacterial infections and the accurate identification of the specific causative agent may guide medical interventions including antimicrobial therapy. From a diagnostic perspective, adequate microbiologic sampling and careful interpretation of laboratory test results in a clinical context are central requirements.},
}

@article {pmid40627495,
year = {2025},
author = {Onohuean, H and Ogunmola, T and Adesiyan, A and Oluwamayowa Samuel, A and Oni, E and Okechukwu Paul Chima, U},
title = {Updates on cancer vaccines in brain cancer: Advances in neuroblastoma, delivery systems, and emerging technologies.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2526964},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2526964},
pmid = {40627495},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Brain Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; *Neuroblastoma/therapy/immunology ; *Cancer Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology/therapeutic use ; Blood-Brain Barrier/metabolism ; *Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; Nanoparticles/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Child ; Immunotherapy/methods ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Neuroblastoma stands as a major concern in pediatric oncology because it develops from neural crest cells as a neuroendocrine cancer. Nanoparticle-based vaccine delivery approaches the therapeutic activity of immune cells only toward tumor cells without inflicting damage to healthy tissues like those sustained by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Neuroblastoma treatment faces two major barriers: penetrating the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and using nanoparticle technology. The promising developments for neuroblastoma treatment emerge from mRNA COVID-19 vaccine research and brain cancer vaccine clinical trials especially through phase I autologous dendritic cell vaccine studies. Future research needs to develop optimized nanoparticles which can trigger the release of mRNA or peptides based on tumor-specific pH and enzyme signals. The BBB can be opened temporarily through ultrasound and receptor-mediated transport approaches, which enhance vaccine delivery to brain tissues. New immunotherapeutic approaches for pediatric malignancies emerge from these recent findings to yield future success.},
}

Humans
*Brain Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
*Neuroblastoma/therapy/immunology
*Cancer Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology/therapeutic use
Blood-Brain Barrier/metabolism
*Drug Delivery Systems/methods
Nanoparticles/administration & dosage
COVID-19 Vaccines
Child
Immunotherapy/methods
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid40434132,
year = {2025},
author = {Metcalfe, J and Scoullar, MJL and Whyler, NCA and Balkin, H and Tippett, E},
title = {Beyond time as the healer: action in long COVID treatment to improve patient outcomes.},
journal = {Internal medicine journal},
volume = {55},
number = {7},
pages = {1203-1207},
doi = {10.1111/imj.70099},
pmid = {40434132},
issn = {1445-5994},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; *Quality of Life ; Patient-Centered Care ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {Long COVID is complex and disabling. Despite emerging therapies, the lack of guidelines and clinician awareness delays treatment. This paper highlights options available now to improve function and quality of life. We call for a symptom-focused, person-centred approach that incorporates lived experience and clinical judgement to bridge the gap between evidence and care. Time alone is not the answer.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy
*Quality of Life
Patient-Centered Care
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40625789,
year = {2025},
author = {Bartlett, ML and Palese, P and Davis, MF and Vermund, SH and Bréchot, C and Evans, JD and Sauer, LM and Osterhaus, A and Pekosz, A and Nelson, M and Stachler, E and Krammer, F and Moreno, G and Olinger, G and Koopmans, M},
title = {Enhancing the response to avian influenza in the US and globally.},
journal = {Lancet regional health. Americas},
volume = {46},
number = {},
pages = {101100},
pmid = {40625789},
issn = {2667-193X},
abstract = {The recent emergence of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infections in dairy cows and humans in the U.S. has raised alarms regarding the potential for a pandemic. Over 995 dairy cow herds and at least 70 humans have been affected, including cases of severe disease and the first reported H5N1-related death in the U.S. Sporadic human infections with no known contact with infected animals highlight the possibility of viral adaptation for efficient human-to-human transmission. Concurrently, the virus continues to circulate in wild birds, backyard flocks, and hunted migratory species, further amplifying the risk to humans and domestic animals. This article provides an overview of the current outbreak status, emphasizes the importance of robust surveillance systems to detect emerging strains with pandemic potential, and highlights risks to the U.S. dairy and poultry industries. Recommendations for risk mitigation include enhanced biosecurity measures, improved surveillance, decentralized testing, and targeted public health messaging. The Global Virus Network calls for urgent, proactive measures to prevent widespread outbreaks, leveraging lessons learned from prior pandemics. These measures include targeted vaccination, improved communication strategies to combat vaccine hesitancy, and the incorporation of social sciences to address barriers to public health interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40625421,
year = {2025},
author = {Goel, F and Kumar, D and Singh, P and Rai, SN},
title = {The dual threat: exploring the emergence of human metapneumovirus and SARS-CoV-2 coinfections in respiratory infections.},
journal = {3 Biotech},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {235},
pmid = {40625421},
issn = {2190-572X},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2-triggered COVID-19 epidemic has thrown unprecedented challenges at the global public health system but has also drawn attention to the co-circulation of other respiratory viruses, among them human metapneumovirus (hMPV). Both viruses are significant contributors to respiratory illnesses. Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) can cause serious respiratory infections, particularly in young children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. This review explores the overlap between human metapneumovirus (hMPV) and SARS-CoV-2, focusing on their epidemiological patterns, clinical manifestations, and the impact of co-infection on disease severity and patient outcomes. We consider the molecular mechanisms of hMPV's interaction with the host immune system, which might have an impact or exacerbate SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity. The challenges of identifying and treating co-infections are also discussed in this study as are the effects of clinical management during the present pandemic. Furthermore, the possibilities of synergistic effects between the two viruses involved in these coinfections, particularly modified immune response and worsened respiratory outcomes, have been brought up. We address the intersection of these two viral pathogens to provide insights into their combined burden on healthcare systems, underscore the need for improved diagnostic tools, and advocate for research on targeted treatment and vaccine strategies. This review highlights the dual threat posed by hMPV and SARS-CoV-2 and calls for greater attention to the implications of viral co-infections in respiratory diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40625176,
year = {2025},
author = {Naito, T},
title = {A second-generation, self-amplifying COVID-19 Vaccine: World's first approval and distribution in the Japanese market with vaccine hesitancy.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2530291},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2530291},
pmid = {40625176},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; Japan ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Vaccination Hesitancy ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Drug Approval ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/administration & dosage ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {The mRNA vaccine is a milestone in immunotherapeutics, as symbolized by the 2023 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine awarded to Drs. Karikó and Weissman. Whereas the conventional, "first-generation" mRNA vaccine was globally distributed to hundreds of millions of people to decrease COVID-19 prevalence, further advanced constructs have been pursued by researchers and pharmaceutical manufacturers. The key feature of the "second-generation" mRNA vaccine is a self-amplifying replicon that may allow a low dose to ensure durable immunogenicity. In clinical trials, ARCT-154 indeed showed effectiveness (magnitude, persistence, and breadth) superior to conventional mRNA vaccines, with similar or less frequent adverse responses, and acquired its world's first approval in November 2023 in Japan (brand name: KOSTAIVE manufactured by Meiji Seika Pharma, Tokyo, Japan) to prevent COVID-19 infection. Real-world distribution of KOSTAIVE was started in October 2024, and researchers are collecting data on its effectiveness and safety despite nonscientific, but persistent, antivaccine skepticism.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
Japan
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Vaccination Hesitancy
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Drug Approval
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/administration & dosage
Clinical Trials as Topic
East Asian People

@article {pmid40626086,
year = {2023},
author = {Tang, Y and Ren, L and Liu, E},
title = {Current status and reflections on the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory tract infections in children in the COVID-19 pandemic and post-COVID-19 era.},
journal = {Pediatric discovery..},
volume = {1},
number = {3},
pages = {e33},
pmid = {40626086},
issn = {2835-5598},
abstract = {Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are common and frequently occurring diseases in children, posing a significant health threat to children worldwide. Viruses are the most important pathogens of childhood RTIs. Since the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), a series of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) have been widely implemented around the globe, and important changes have taken place in the spectrum of respiratory diseases and viruses in children. However, with relaxation of NPIs, there has been a "virus resurgence" in some areas, with multiple viral infectious diseases appearing simultaneously. This review comprehensively summarizes the changes observed in the spectrum of respiratory diseases and viruses in children in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, explores possible mechanisms, and presents reflections on the key points of diagnosis and treatment of RTIs in children in the post-COVID-19 era in light of recent advances in COVID-19 in children.},
}

@article {pmid40625713,
year = {2023},
author = {Xia, W and Peng, Z},
title = {Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection: The potential vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and impact on neonates: A review.},
journal = {Pediatric discovery..},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {e22},
pmid = {40625713},
issn = {2835-5598},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a large, lipid-enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus, is a highly contagious virus that caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. Pregnant women are usually considered at high risk for infectious diseases, including COVID-19. Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection can adversely affect the pregnancy and birth outcomes, such as abortion, intrauterine growth restriction, and prematurity. Some meta-analysis suggested that the outcomes of newborns are different between symptomatic and asymptomatic pregnant women but similar in asymptomatic and SARS-CoV-2 negative group. Maternal infection increases the risk of vertical transmission; also the presence of SARS-CoV-2 or its RNA in maternal samples in some case reports raised the possibility of intrauterine transmission. Also, contact transmission during delivery and postnatal transmission are discussed. Although most infected newborns are asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, there are case reports of severe neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infection, including cardiorespiratory failure and death. Otherwise, some studies suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a reduction for preterm birth during the pandemic compared with the prepandemic period. We conduct this review to try to make a conclusion about the vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and impact on neonates due to Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

@article {pmid40624586,
year = {2025},
author = {Alzahrani, RS and Alkhatabi, TF and Bokhari, AF and Ismail, WM and Alyamani, AS and Alsudais, AS and AlRajhi, B and Almutairi, DM},
title = {Efficacy of Omega-3 supplementation in olfactory dysfunction: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {BMC nutrition},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {135},
pmid = {40624586},
issn = {2055-0928},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Olfactory dysfunction (OD) significantly impacts patients' quality of life, yet effective treatments are limited. Omega-3 fatty acids have shown promise in improving olfactory function, but further research is needed to evaluate their efficacy.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to assess the effects of omega-3 supplementation on OD.

METHODS: A comprehensive search identified randomized controlled trials investigating omega-3 supplementation in OD patients. Inclusion criteria involved adult patients receiving omega-3 fatty acids and undergoing olfactory function assessments.

RESULTS: Three studies with 175 participants were included. Two studies reported omega-3's protective effect against olfactory loss over three months. However, a trial on COVID-19 patients found no significant improvement in olfactory function.

CONCLUSIONS: Omega-3 supplementation, along with olfactory training or nasal rinses, appears to improve olfactory function in OD patients. However, further research is needed to evaluate its standalone efficacy. Omega-3 fatty acids offer a potential therapy for OD, warranting optimization and long-term effects investigation.},
}

@article {pmid40623772,
year = {2025},
author = {Eneh, SC and Anokwuru, CC and Onukansi, FO and Obi, CG and Ikhuoria, OV and Dauda, Z and Obiekwe, SJ and Udoewah, SA},
title = {Implementation of integrated disease surveillance and response systems in West Africa: lessons learned and future directions.},
journal = {BMJ health & care informatics},
volume = {32},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjhci-2024-101346},
pmid = {40623772},
issn = {2632-1009},
mesh = {Humans ; Africa, Western/epidemiology ; *Population Surveillance/methods ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Capacity Building ; *Communicable Disease Control/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {The Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) framework, introduced by the WHO in 1998, aimed to unify disease surveillance across West Africa, replacing fragmented systems. However, challenges such as limited real-time reporting, inadequate data collection and workforce shortages continue to impede disease control and outbreak response. The resurgence of infectious diseases like Ebola, cholera, COVID-19 and monkeypox highlights the need to strengthen IDSR systems for effective public health management. This article reviews IDSR implementation in West Africa, identifying persistent gaps, including delayed outbreak detection, limited laboratory capacity and weak surveillance infrastructure. It emphasises the importance of policy development, capacity building and stakeholder engagement to secure political support and resources. Integrating technological innovations-such as mobile health (mHealth), geographic information systems (GIS), electronic health records and big data analytics-can enhance real-time data sharing and response coordination. Strengthening laboratories, workforce training and monitoring frameworks is essential to improve IDSR performance. Strategic investments are crucial to bolster public health capacities, accelerate response times and mitigate future epidemics in West Africa.},
}

Humans
Africa, Western/epidemiology
*Population Surveillance/methods
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
COVID-19/epidemiology
Capacity Building
*Communicable Disease Control/organization & administration

@article {pmid40623651,
year = {2025},
author = {Bowyer, W and Haslam, A and Prasad, V},
title = {An Analysis of Studies Comparing Myocarditis and Pericarditis in COVID-19 Vaccinated and SARS-CoV-2 Infected Individuals.},
journal = {The American journal of the medical sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.amjms.2025.06.012},
pmid = {40623651},
issn = {1538-2990},
abstract = {We sought to identify studies that examined myocarditis and pericarditis after both COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 infection. A literature search was conducted and retrospective cohort studies examining incidence rates for myocarditis and pericarditis after both COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. The methodologies and conclusions of each study was assessed, and a risk of bias was determined. We found 6 articles that utilized cohorts from the same population. Of the included articles, all of them had risk of bias concerns with 50% having a poor-quality rating and 50% having a fair quality rating. Methodological biases, including reliance on EHR data, inadequate observational periods, and failure to account for baseline characteristics between the two cohorts, were observed across studies. Ultimately, these methodological limitations lead to hyperinflated myocarditis rates in the infection cohorts and a lack of meaningful comparisons between the infection and vaccination cohorts.},
}

@article {pmid40622507,
year = {2025},
author = {Sadowski, J and Huk, J and Otulak, S and Zawiło, J and Klaudel, T and Roszak, M and Tenczyński, D and Bułdak, RJ},
title = {Association between Guillain-Barré syndrome and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, including the impact of COVID-19 vaccination in the context of the development and general clinical characteristics of the disease.},
journal = {Journal of neurovirology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40622507},
issn = {1538-2443},
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, a statistically significant increase in the incidence of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has begun to be observed. This article discusses the impact of immunological processes on structural and functional changes in the peripheral nervous system on the pathogenesis of GBS. The aim of the systematic review is to analyze and discuss available information from the scientific literature regarding a possible clinical relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection along with vaccination mainly, adenovector and mRNA vaccines and the development of different types of Guillain-Barré syndrome. The review specifically discusses the role of proinflammatory cytokines and "cytokine storm" in patients with COVID-19 and their potential impact on the phenomenon of "molecular mimicry" and the generation of autoantibodies in GBS. This issue has been expanded to include information from studies on the impact of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 virus and the higher number of observed cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Focusing on the characteristics of the methods, materials, results and conclusions, the review finally included 114 publications, like studies, meta-analyses, clinical cases and reviews. The systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elsevier databases. It pointed out the molecular and clinical association between SARS-CoV-2 virus infections and COVID-19 vaccination, in the development of Guillain-Barré syndrome in the context of its clinical course.},
}

@article {pmid40621974,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, J and Aherfi, S and Steichen, P and Rios, G and Waldmann, R and Barbry, P},
title = {[Molecular epidemiology of viruses sequenced from wastewater].},
journal = {Medecine sciences : M/S},
volume = {41},
number = {6-7},
pages = {585-592},
doi = {10.1051/medsci/2025083},
pmid = {40621974},
issn = {1958-5381},
mesh = {*Wastewater/virology ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification ; COVID-19/epidemiology/virology ; *Molecular Epidemiology/methods ; *Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification ; Metagenomics/methods ; Pandemics ; Genome, Viral ; },
abstract = {Virus surveillance using metagenomic analysis of sequences from wastewater appears to be a promising epidemiological tool for monitoring the spread of viruses in large populations. Its use during the COVID-19 pandemic enabled the monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 circulation without requiring the collection of multiple individual samples. This approach allows both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections to be monitored in a highly cost-effective way. Initially based on PCR detection, the introduction of nucleic acid sequencing has improved this tool by providing more detailed metagenomic information. Experience with COVID-19 pandemics suggests that this epidemiological tool should now be extended to other viruses detectable in wastewater. This review discusses the different methods used, highlighting the challenges of a rapid deployment on an international scale to better understand the global circulation of viral pathogens.},
}

*Wastewater/virology
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification
COVID-19/epidemiology/virology
*Molecular Epidemiology/methods
*Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification
Metagenomics/methods
Pandemics
Genome, Viral

@article {pmid40621515,
year = {2025},
author = {Azhar, S and Ibañez, NC and Zamora, J and Cavanillas, AB},
title = {Coronavirus-two infection among adults: A scoping review of literature published in 2023-24.},
journal = {Pakistan journal of medical sciences},
volume = {41},
number = {6},
pages = {1788-1798},
pmid = {40621515},
issn = {1682-024X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To identify and synthesize evidence on Coronavirus-two infection (SARS-CoV-2) among adults diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction.

METHODS: The protocol was registered on Open Science Forum (doi: 10.17605/OSF.IO/2837X). Three bibliographic databases (Medline, SCOPUS, and Web of Science) were searched from July 2024 to December 2024. Peer-reviewed, quantitative studies with participants aged 18 and over were eligible to enlist potential risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction PCR). The evidence was summarized as illustrations and tabulations with risk factors grouped into various categories. EndNote 20 was used for deduplications and organization of the literature.

RESULTS: Of 28,688 unique entries searched, 299 were shortlisted and 32 full-text manuscripts selected from 17 countries. There were two (6.2%) manuscripts based on real-time surveillance of at-risk populations. A total of 42 individual risk factors were examined in the evidence.

CONCLUSION: Low socioeconomic status and occupation were consistent risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection, with minimal representation from low- and middle-income countries in the evidence body. Future research should prioritize standardized methods and inclusion of underrepresented regions to enhance global applicability and inform targeted public health interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40620334,
year = {2025},
author = {Endeshaw, D and Kebede, N and Abadi Tareke, A and Adal, O and Getachew, E and Belayneh, AG and Andargie, GA and Seid, K and Lakew, G and Yirsaw, AN and Tefera, M and Bogale, EK and Anagaw, TF and Fenta, ET},
title = {Prevalence of infection and associated factors after intramedullary nailing in African countries with the Surgical Implant Generation Network program: A systematic review and meta-analysis of available evidence.},
journal = {SAGE open medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {20503121251352653},
pmid = {40620334},
issn = {2050-3121},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Infections following orthopedic procedures, such as implant insertion, are common and pose significant burdens globally. Comprehensive evidence of its prevalence and the influencing factors is crucial for developing effective infection prevention strategies across regions.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of infection and associated factors after Surgical Implant Generation Network nailing in African countries with the Surgical Implant Generation Network program.

METHOD: A comprehensive search was performed across multiple databases, including PubMed, Global Index Medicus, Scopus, Embase, Science Direct, Hinari, and African Journals Online, complemented by a search of Google Scholar. After data extraction, the data were exported to STATA 17 statistical software for analysis. The pooled prevalence of infection was estimated using a random effects model. The level of heterogeneity was assessed using the I² test, while publication bias was evaluated through a funnel plot and Egger's and Begg's tests.

RESULTS: This meta-analysis included 23 full-text studies involving a total of 4266 patients treated with Surgical Implant Generation Network intramedullary nailing for long bone fractures. The pooled prevalence of infection was 5.69% (95% CI: 4.55%-6.83%), with a moderate level of heterogeneity (I² = 57.86%, p < 0.001). The review also identified significant predictors of infection, including open fracture type, complex fracture patterns, surgery performed within 15 days of injury, the presence of a prophylactic drain, female gender, and procedures conducted by junior surgeons.

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis revealed a relatively high infection prevalence in patients who underwent Surgical Implant Generation Network nailing for fractures. Infection risk was significantly higher in cases involving open or complex fractures, early surgical intervention, use of prophylactic drains, female patients, and procedures conducted by less-experienced surgeons. To mitigate this burden, clinical efforts should focus on optimizing the timing of surgery, avoiding unnecessary drain placement, strengthening supervision for junior surgeons, and prioritizing enhanced intraoperative and postoperative care for high-risk fracture types.},
}

@article {pmid40619741,
year = {2025},
author = {Brüssow, H},
title = {From Bat to Worse: The Pivotal Role of Bats for Viral Zoonosis.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e70190},
doi = {10.1111/1751-7915.70190},
pmid = {40619741},
issn = {1751-7915},
mesh = {*Chiroptera/virology ; Animals ; Humans ; *Viral Zoonoses/transmission/virology/epidemiology ; COVID-19/transmission ; Disease Reservoirs/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Zoonoses/transmission/virology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Zoonotic infections are increasingly observed and bats (Chiroptera) are playing a pivotal role here. The causal chain of events has been elucidated for Henipavirus (family: paramyxoviruses) infections. Deforestation combined with climate change has reduced the food sources of Pteropus fruit bats and attracted them to fruit trees planted around piggeries in Malaysia, transmitting Nipah virus to pigs as amplifying hosts and then to pig farmers and abattoir workers. Similar scenarios were seen in Australia where Pteropus bats transmitted Hendra virus to horses as intermediate hosts for human infections. Pteropus bats contaminated palm sap collected in Bangladesh with Nipah virus where fatal human-to-human transmissions occurred annually. Less direct evidence links coronaviruses carried by Rhinolophus bats with SARS and COVID-19 pandemics and a piglet epidemic in China. Rousettus bats living in caves transmitted the Marburg virus (family: filovirus) to miners in Africa. Most cases of human rabies in North America were caused by bat lyssaviruses (family: Rhabdoviruses). Bats are viral reservoir species for various virus families (reovirus, Hepacivirus of Flavivirus family, influenza A viruses). Bats are the only flying mammals which opened enormous evolutionary possibilities resulting in a worldwide radiation with 1400 species. Some bat species are represented by huge populations that come together in extremely crowded resting places that are conducive to viral transmission. Bats have evolved mechanisms that tolerate virus replication but suppress the associated pathology, making them healthy carriers for many viruses. It is speculated that with that strategy bats avoid an arms race with viruses for resistance and anti-resistance mechanisms. The excretion of viruses that are highly pathogenic for other mammalian orders could be used as biological weapons to defend their habitat against intrusion by mammalian competitors, including humans. This hypothesis might explain the increasing involvement of bat viruses in emerging infectious diseases observed in recent decades and expected in the future.},
}

*Chiroptera/virology
Animals
Humans
*Viral Zoonoses/transmission/virology/epidemiology
COVID-19/transmission
Disease Reservoirs/virology
SARS-CoV-2
*Zoonoses/transmission/virology
Pandemics

@article {pmid40607738,
year = {2025},
author = {Debbag, R and Gallo, J and Ávila-Agüero, ML and Beltran, C and Brea-Del Castillo, J and Puentes, A and Enrique, S},
title = {Rebuilding vaccine confidence in Latin America and the Caribbean: strategies for the post-pandemic era.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {615-623},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2025.2527327},
pmid = {40607738},
issn = {1744-8395},
mesh = {Humans ; Latin America/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Caribbean Region/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Vaccination/psychology ; Communication ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Vaccine hesitancy in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) has a complex nature. It is shaped by socio-political, cultural, economic factors, and an influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on increasing hesitancy patterns. While LAC has maintained high vaccination coverage, it has experienced a decline over the past 10-years, further exacerbated by declining vaccine confidence during the pandemic, driven by misinformation, political polarization, and conspiracy theories.

AREAS COVERED: We review the impact of vaccine hesitancy across various stakeholders in LAC, focusing on healthcare professionals, parents, and community leaders, including data from studies conducted in Argentina and Colombia highlighting regional variations in hesitancy patterns. It describes the role of pediatricians in recommending vaccines, particularly in COVID-19 vaccines. The study explores how the rapid spread of misinformation, particularly through social media, exacerbated mistrust, and offers an overview of vaccine hesitancy trends in LAC during/after the pandemic.

EXPERT OPINION: While vaccine acceptance remains high among certain populations, communication strategies are essential to address concerns about vaccine safety. It is imperative to strengthen the relationship between health-providers and the public to mitigate misinformation and improve vaccine uptake. We propose seven strategic approaches for a comprehensive communication aimed at changing the public behavior about vaccines.},
}

Humans
Latin America/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Caribbean Region/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Vaccination/psychology
Communication
Pandemics/prevention & control

@article {pmid39943803,
year = {2025},
author = {Sada, KE and Iwata, S and Inoue, Y and Tanaka, E and Nishida, K and Kawahito, Y and Abe, A and Kawakami, A and Miyamae, T},
title = {Telemedicine as an alternative to in-person care in the field of rheumatic diseases: A systematic scoping review.},
journal = {Modern rheumatology},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {715-721},
doi = {10.1093/mr/roaf012},
pmid = {39943803},
issn = {1439-7609},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/economics ; *Rheumatic Diseases/therapy ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the widespread adoption of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person care. This systematic scoping review evaluated the effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and challenges of telemedicine for patients with rheumatic diseases.

METHODS: A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE database was conducted using specific terms related to rheumatoid or juvenile arthritis, and telemedicine. The literature search included studies published up to March, 2024. In this review, we only considered studies assessing telemedicine as an alternative to in-person care.

RESULTS: The search, conducted on 15 March 2024, generated 258 references. Eight reports from three randomized controlled trials and three observational studies were included. Randomized controlled trials have shown that the outcomes of telemedicine intervention are comparable to those of in-person care in terms of disease activity, functional status, and quality of life, while enabling fewer outpatient visits and cost-effectiveness. However, the high dropout rates highlight the importance of patient preferences and comprehensive education. Observational studies revealed similar findings but were limited by a high confounding bias.

CONCLUSION: Telemedicine offers economic advantages and maintains clinical outcomes comparable to those of in-person care. Its success depends on structured patient education and alignment with patient preferences. Further research is required, particularly in the context of healthcare in Japan.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/economics
*Rheumatic Diseases/therapy
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Cost-Benefit Analysis
SARS-CoV-2
Quality of Life

@article {pmid40619035,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghosh, M and Lahiri, M and Dalal, A and Parida, KK and Kalia, NP},
title = {Advancements in Tuberculosis Diagnostics: An Update.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107843},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107843},
pmid = {40619035},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major life-threatening diseases caused by a single pathogen which has become a social menace owing to its high resistance. TB has even surpassed AIDS prior the COVID 19 pandemic. Every year the number of affected persons is increasing exponentially. In 2023 8.2 million new cases of TB were reported. There are various factors responsible for such infectivity rate of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) including emergence of rapid resistant strains, treatment failure and lack of proper diagnosis. In order to combat the infection, early and effective treatment of the infection is very crucial. This calls for the existence of effective and point of care (POC) diagnostic tool for successful management of the disease. The conventional diagnostics includes staining, microscopy, tuberculin skin test and chest X ray. However, they have various limitations which increases the public threat. These tools lack the ease of transportation, less sensitive, time consuming and lack accuracy. To eliminate such limitations and bridge the gap associated with the proper diagnosis of disease, various biochemical, molecular, immunological diagnostic tools have come up in rescue of the infection. These modern tools are potent enough in characterizing Mtb, detect mutations correlated with the existing medications and ensure effective management. In this article we are focusing on modern diagnostic tools such as T-SPOT, artificial intelligence, electronic nose, RT PCR, TB LAM, CRISPR, biosensor-based detection techniques including the conventional techniques for detection of Mtb in clinical setup in resource limited healthcare facilities for comprehensive diagnosis of tuberculosis.},
}

@article {pmid40618429,
year = {2025},
author = {Hazra, S and Bisht, KS and Makkar, S and Bora, KS},
title = {Knowledge, attitude, perception and satisfaction level of Ayurveda and allopathy in India: A systematic literature review.},
journal = {Explore (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {21},
number = {5},
pages = {103208},
doi = {10.1016/j.explore.2025.103208},
pmid = {40618429},
issn = {1878-7541},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system, remains integral to India's healthcare despite the dominance of allopathy. The lack of scientific validation, standardized regulations, and clinical trials has hindered its integration into modern healthcare. The Ministry of AYUSH has played a key role in promoting Ayurveda, though regional disparities persist in its implementation. The COVID-19 pandemic revived interest in Ayurveda, highlighting its preventive aspects but also raising concerns about misinformation. A balanced, integrative approach combining Ayurveda and allopathy can enhance healthcare by leveraging the strengths of both systems. This study aimed to decipher the knowledge, attitude, perception, and satisfaction levels of Ayurveda and Allopathic, and/or integrative system of medicine, among the Indian Population.

METHODS: The search for eligible studies for inclusion was conducted via the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Original research, review, early access, open/early access articles, and meeting abstracts were eligible for inclusion.

RESULTS: This search generated 10,690 articles published between 2004 and 2024, and of these, 24 were assessed for eligibility. This included 20 original research and 4 review article. Only the research articcles were considered for the present review, with a collective total of 7952 participants. The manuscript revealed that the preference for Ayurveda was driven by perceptions of naturalness, safety, cultural familiarity, and affordability, rather than scientific validation. Additionally, while patients viewed it as a low-risk alternative, it was revealed through the included studies that there is limited awareness of proper dosage, risks, and potential interactions with Allopathy, leading to unsafe practices. Moreover, the gap between public interest in Ayurveda and the healthcare system's ability to provide regulated, evidence-based services was highlighted as one of the key issues in the adoption of Ayurvedic system of medicine. Thus, despite increased government support, integration remains weak due to operational barriers, professional hesitancy, and regional disparities in AYUSH services. Additionally, the private sector has not significantly incorporated Ayurveda, limiting urban access to integrative care.

CONCLUSIONS: The review highlights the preference for Ayurveda in chronic disease management and Allopathy for acute care, driven more by perceptions of safety and affordability than scientific validation. However, a lack of awareness about proper usage and herb-drug interactions leads to unsafe practices like unsupervised dual-use. Despite government efforts, integration remains limited due to operational barriers, professional hesitancy, and uneven AYUSH service distribution. The private sector has not meaningfully adopted Ayurveda, restricting urban access to integrative care. Advancing integrative medicine requires rigorous research, regulatory frameworks, and institutional reforms to ensure the safe, evidence-based coexistence of both systems.},
}

@article {pmid40617907,
year = {2025},
author = {Rostami, M and Parsa-Kondelaji, M and Bos, MHA and Mansouritorghabeh, H},
title = {Antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of thrombosis and thrombolysis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40617907},
issn = {1573-742X},
support = {4022475//Mashhad University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 patients are at an increased risk of developing thrombotic events, with venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurring in 16% and arterial thrombosis in 11.1% of cases. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to explore the prevalence of anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in COVID-19 patients and their potential role in thrombotic complications. A comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified 48 studies from an initial pool of 1,819 articles, which met the inclusion criteria and were rigorously evaluated for methodological quality. The analysis of studies revealed varying prevalence rates of aPLs among COVID-19 patients. Anti-β2 glycoprotein I IgM (aβ2GPI-IgM) was found in 5.3% of 5,176 patients, while aβ2GPI-IgG was observed in 3.6% of 5,348 patients. In contrast, aβ2GPI-IgA showed a higher prevalence of 10.8% across 18 studies involving 1,930 patients. Anti-cardiolipin antibodies also demonstrated distinct prevalence rates: aCL-IgG was present in 7.2% of 5,478 patients, aCL-IgM in 6.7% of 5,485 patients, and aCL-IgA in 4.7% of 1,626 patients. Notably, lupus anticoagulant (LA) had the highest pooled prevalence rate of 27.2% across 16 studies involving 1,731 patients. Among the aPL subgroups, LA were the most frequently detected, which may be due to interference of C-reactive protein (CRP). The findings underscore the heterogeneity in aPL distribution and emphasize the need for further research to clarify their role in the thrombotic manifestations of COVID-19. These insights may aid in prevention of thrombotic events by administration of anticoagulants in affected patients. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024529786.},
}

@article {pmid40617735,
year = {2025},
author = {Bauernschmidt, D and Dichter, MN and Horbach, A and Meyer, G and Müller, M and Rahn, AC and Möhler, R},
title = {[Nursing research in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Germany: A scoping review].},
journal = {Zeitschrift fur Evidenz, Fortbildung und Qualitat im Gesundheitswesen},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.zefq.2025.05.006},
pmid = {40617735},
issn = {2212-0289},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had a major impact on nursing and healthcare as well as on research. The aim of this study was to analyse the characteristics of nursing- and SARS-CoV-2-related research in Germany.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted. We systematically searched (06/2023) Medline, CINAHL, the German Register of Clinical Trials, abstract books of conferences and conducted a manual literature search. We included empirical studies addressing aspects of nursing and the pandemic and involving German researchers. Study selection and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers. Results were analysed descriptively.

RESULTS: We included 131 publications (85 quantitative, 27 qualitative, 6 mixed-/multi-methods studies, 12 systematic reviews, 1 discussion paper); 49 % of the studies were published in 2021. First authors were mostly from medicine, psychology and nursing science, last authors from medicine. Most studies were explorative. Most of the quantitative studies used observational designs, only four were experimental. Nurses and other healthcare professionals were the most common target group; people with care needs or relatives were rarely addressed. The most common topics included health, perceived burden, working conditions, and characteristics of care during the pandemic. A quarter of the studies were not externally funded, 32 % did not provide information on funding. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (21 %) was the most common funding body.

CONCLUSION: Pandemic-related nursing research was published to a limited extent by nursing scientists; clinical nursing research was particularly underrepresented. Dependable funding and the development of a research infrastructure for nursing research are necessary to ensure evidence-based nursing in times of crisis and to generate findings that are relevant to clinical practice and health policy decision-makers.},
}

@article {pmid40617558,
year = {2025},
author = {Milne, BM and Mallett, EM and Brogly, DSB},
title = {The effect of COVID-19 vaccination on menstrual cycles of adolescents and young adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpag.2025.06.010},
pmid = {40617558},
issn = {1873-4332},
abstract = {The binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein from vaccination can affect the menstrual cycle. Most studies have focused on women of reproductive age, with less attention given to adolescent and young women, despite their increased risk of heightened responses to vaccines. Thus, we consolidated evidence on menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination for adolescent and young women.

METHODS: OVID MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases were searched (January 2020-December 2024) for peer-reviewed studies on COVID-19 vaccination on menstruating people <25. Of 80 articles identified, 15 met the inclusion criteria after review by two independent reviewers. We estimated risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MD) when data permitted. We assessed publication bias with funnel plots and evaluated heterogeneity using Cochran's Q, Galbraith plots, and I² statistic. Outcomes included any measured or perceived changes in menstrual cycles, in bleeding length, and in cycle length (i.e. length between the first day of bleeding of two periods).

RESULTS: Among the 15 studies, 24,647 adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 25 were included. The summary effect measure showed no effect of vaccination on any menstrual change (RR:1.09; 95% CI: 0.84-1.42) and significant heterogeneity across studies (I[2] = 69%). There was, however, a greater risk of longer cycle length after vaccination (RR=1.17, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.27) and no heterogeneity between these two studies (I[2]=0%); however, when assessed continuously there was a non-significant increase in cycle length (MD=0.24 days, 95% CI: -0.34, 0.82). No studies assessed menses bleeding length in adolescent and young women. Funnel plots suggested no publication bias.

CONCLUSION: Although few studies were included, available data suggest that there may be increased risk of a longer menstrual cycle length in adolescents and young women, but no other changes were identified. Further data are needed.},
}

@article {pmid40616979,
year = {2025},
author = {Wier, J and Price, N and Brisley, H and Brockmann, P},
title = {Underserved groups access to reproductive services: A literature review of women aged 18-25 years.},
journal = {Sexual & reproductive healthcare : official journal of the Swedish Association of Midwives},
volume = {45},
number = {},
pages = {101126},
doi = {10.1016/j.srhc.2025.101126},
pmid = {40616979},
issn = {1877-5764},
abstract = {The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the need for several improvements for young women, in terms of accessing, funding, and strategies for the development of sexual and reproductive health care (SRH). Core recommendations were highlighted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Report (Johnson,2020) on sexual and reproductive Health in the UK. Key recommendations included that the choice of method and delivery of reproductive services for women is reducing. This was furthered globally by the World Health Organisation (WHO) (2023) who note a need for equity in access, supportive health monitoring and a focus on underserved groups. This literature review was conducted using the established method of thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke,2006), and in parallel with the APPG report and WHO recommendations, consolidates the findings into three key themed areas: underserved women's reproductive healthcare, cost effective contraception, young people's access to and understanding of fertility and contraception services. Underserved communities such as young women from marginalised groups, people of colour (Messinis et al,2021), women who have sex with women (Burkill & Waterhouse2019) and women with disabilities (McCarthy,2011), experience inadequate and disparity of provision when accessing reproductive services. The review highlights limited high quality, recent, UK-based studies to further inform local governments, that considers the views and needs of young women 18-25 years when accessing reproductive services to implement change.},
}

@article {pmid40418237,
year = {2025},
author = {Sato, K and Ishii, K and Nagai, S and Ogata, Y},
title = {Factors related to nurses' posttraumatic growth during the early stage of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of occupational health},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/joccuh/uiaf030},
pmid = {40418237},
issn = {1348-9585},
support = {//JSPS KAKENHI/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/nursing/psychology/epidemiology ; *Posttraumatic Growth, Psychological ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Nurses/psychology ; Adult ; *Nursing Staff, Hospital/psychology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to identify the factors influencing nurses' posttraumatic growth (PTG) during the early stages of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

METHODS: A literature search was conducted in February 2023 across databases, including Medline, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, for articles published between January 2020 and February 2023 related to PTG in nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inclusion criteria were English-language articles, original research on nurses' PTG, and studies conducted after January 2020. Of 1089 identified articles, 142 were screened, and 27 were selected for final analysis. Data extracted from the articles included the author(s) name(s), the study's geographic location, publication year, study purpose, study design, participants, methods, measurement scales, results, and notes. PTG factors were extracted and grouped into 4 broad categories: COVID-related factors, nursing-related factors, factors in Tedeschi's PTG conceptual model, and other factors. Smaller categories were then created by inductively categorizing the factors based on similarities and differences.

RESULTS: As factors of nurses' PTG during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, 16 subcategories were organized under 4 categories. In addition to all factors from Tedeschi's PTG model, some COVID-related factors (eg, care context, organizational training), and some nursing-related factors (eg, work environment) were shown to be related to PTG. No significant relationships were found between almost all of the other factors, including sociodemographic attributes, and PTG.

CONCLUSIONS: Factors found in this study can help identify nurses' PTG facilitators and guide the development of interventions for future crises.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/nursing/psychology/epidemiology
*Posttraumatic Growth, Psychological
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Nurses/psychology
Adult
*Nursing Staff, Hospital/psychology

@article {pmid40616095,
year = {2025},
author = {Atnafu, A and Teshale, G and Dellie, E and Park, YS},
title = {Exploring health system challenges and gaps for crisis response in Ethiopia: a scoping review of publications and reports from 2020-2024.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {928},
pmid = {40616095},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {RF-EGA-2023-H03//Research Investment for Global Health Technology (RIGHT) Foundation/ ; RF-EGA-2023-H03//Research Investment for Global Health Technology (RIGHT) Foundation/ ; RF-EGA-2023-H03//Research Investment for Global Health Technology (RIGHT) Foundation/ ; RF-EGA-2023-H03//Research Investment for Global Health Technology (RIGHT) Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ethiopia's health system has faced significant challenges due to COVID-19, natural disasters, and conflicts, disrupting healthcare delivery. This scoping review examined health system gaps and responses during crises, aiming to recommend strategies for resilience.

METHOD: We followed a systematic scoping review approach using the five-step methodology: defining the research question, identifying relevant literature, selecting studies, charting the data, and summarizing/analyzing results. The review was guided by PRISMA-ScR and used the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework. We included all English-language studies published between January 2000 and December 2024 addressing challenges or responses of the Ethiopian health system during crises, regardless of study design. PubMed, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and Google were searched using MeSH terms/keywords. After title, abstract, and full-text screening, 44 articles were included for final analysis. Data were synthesized using descriptive analytical methods and narrative synthesis to summarize and interpret findings.

RESULTS: Findings revealed crises severely impacted health services due to shortages of medical supplies, workforce, and infrastructure. Demand surges, transport restrictions, border closures, and financial constraints exacerbated these gaps. Additional challenges included poor data availability, high staff turnover, lack of emergency communication plans, and insufficient funding.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the northern Ethiopian conflict notably disrupted routine services, infrastructure, and health information systems. To build resilience, the study recommends: (1) developing scalable emergency plans for essential services, (2) strengthening primary healthcare and community-based systems, (3) maintaining medical stockpiles, and (4) providing crisis-specific training for health workers. These measures aim to enhance preparedness and sustainability in Ethiopia's health system amid future shocks.},
}

@article {pmid40614415,
year = {2025},
author = {Shahid, S and Hasan, A and Iqbal, M and Khan, M and Ayatullah, O and Qasim, SA and Batool, A},
title = {Discontinuation of disease-modifying therapy in stable multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Multiple sclerosis and related disorders},
volume = {101},
number = {},
pages = {106599},
doi = {10.1016/j.msard.2025.106599},
pmid = {40614415},
issn = {2211-0356},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are used to manage multiple sclerosis (MS), particularly in individuals with relapse-onset MS, to slow disease progression, reduce inflammation and demyelination and improve quality of life. Discontinuing treatment may pose a greater relapse risk for younger individuals with active disease, whereas the safety of treatment cessation in older, stable patients remains uncertain.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing discontinuation of disease-modifying therapy in stable multiple sclerosis patients. Data were collected from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central databases. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager v5.4. A random-effects model was applied to pool risk ratios (RRs) and 95 % confidence intervals, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: A total of eight studies, including 4517 patients (3355 in the continuation group and 1162 in the discontinuation group), were analyzed. The mean age of participants was 53 years, with 72.7 % being female. Discontinuation of disease-modifying therapy (DMT) in patients with stable multiple sclerosis (MS) was associated with a significantly higher risk of mild adverse events (RR 1.29; 95 % CI 1.15-1.46; p < 0.0001). However, the risk of relapse (RR 0.31; 95 % CI 0.03-3.21; p = 0.33), as well as moderate (RR 1.11; 95 % CI 0.97-1.28; p = 0.14) and severe adverse events (RR 0.90; 95 % CI 0.45-1.78; p = 0.75), was comparable between the two groups. Similarly, the risk of common or treatment-related adverse events, including COVID-19 (RR 0.65; 95 % CI 0.28-1.52; p = 0.32), influenza (RR 0.39; 95 % CI 0.14-1.08; p = 0.07), and abnormal white blood cell count (RR 1.03; 95 % CI 0.11-3.21; p = 9.77), did not differ significantly between the continuation and discontinuation groups.

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis found no significant increase in relapse risk after DMT discontinuation in stable MS patients. However, outcomes varied based on patient age, prior DMT, and duration of disease stability. Agents like S1P inhibitors and natalizumab may carry higher relapse risk after cessation. Additionally, new MRI lesions were noted in some studies, highlighting the need for continued monitoring. Treatment decisions should be individualized until further long-term data become available.},
}

@article {pmid40614091,
year = {2025},
author = {Matula, Z and Bacskai, M and Andrikovics, H and Bors, A and Csabán, D and Őrfi, Z and Gyenesei, A and Uher, F and Vályi-Nagy, I},
title = {[Genetic factors underlying the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19].},
journal = {Orvosi hetilap},
volume = {166},
number = {18},
pages = {679-696},
doi = {10.1556/650.2025.33280},
pmid = {40614091},
issn = {1788-6120},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/genetics/immunology ; *Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Severity of Illness Index ; Risk Factors ; },
}

Humans
*COVID-19/genetics/immunology
*Genetic Predisposition to Disease
*SARS-CoV-2
Severity of Illness Index
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40613275,
year = {2025},
author = {Grewal, T and Buechler, C},
title = {Physiological Activities of Adiponectin Provide Therapeutic Opportunities in Sepsis.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition)},
volume = {30},
number = {6},
pages = {26129},
doi = {10.31083/FBL26129},
pmid = {40613275},
issn = {2768-6698},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adiponectin/blood/physiology/metabolism/therapeutic use ; *Sepsis/metabolism/blood/drug therapy/physiopathology ; Animals ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {Sepsis represents a life-threatening organ dysfunction due to a compromised host response caused by bacterial and viral infections. Although progress has been made to unravel the underlying pathophysiology, sepsis remains a very serious condition. Adiponectin is an adipokine with multiple beneficial activities relevant to glucose and lipid metabolism whose serum levels are low in obesity and metabolic diseases. In addition, several immunoregulatory activities of adiponectin have been described and circulating adiponectin levels have been positively associated with inflammation in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes. Although an understanding of physiological consequences is still limited, blood adiponectin levels are also elevated in chronic kidney disease and liver cirrhosis, possibly due to impaired biliary and renal excretion. Natriuretic peptides, which increase adiponectin synthesis in adipocytes and are induced in autoimmune diseases and cirrhosis and decreased in obesity, appear to contribute to altered systemic adiponectin levels. In patients with sepsis, data on circulating adiponectin levels are not concordant, probably due to the large diversity in cohorts analyzed, often including patients with a higher risk for severe sepsis due to chronic metabolic disease or other comorbidities. This review article summarizes the main physiological activities of adiponectin and describes its role in inflammation and experimental sepsis. Adiponectin levels obtained in observational studies from serum or plasma of patients with critical illness are discussed. From this analysis, we conclude that circulating adiponectin levels are reduced in sepsis and septic shock, suggesting the potential of adiponectin receptor agonists as an option for sepsis therapy.},
}

Humans
*Adiponectin/blood/physiology/metabolism/therapeutic use
*Sepsis/metabolism/blood/drug therapy/physiopathology
Animals
Inflammation

@article {pmid40613193,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, ZH and Zhao, JY and Shi, XF},
title = {[Interaction between COVID-19 Infection and Hematological Malignancies --Review].},
journal = {Zhongguo shi yan xue ye xue za zhi},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {922-926},
doi = {10.19746/j.cnki.issn.1009-2137.2025.03.046},
pmid = {40613193},
issn = {1009-2137},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Hematologic Neoplasms/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has impacted our lifestyles. On the one hand, the patients with hematological malignancies (HM) are more vulnerable to COVID-19 infection. Once infected with COVID-19, these patients tend to develop into severe type with a higher mortality rate. Although patients with HM demonstrated a reduced response to COVID-19 vaccines, they still can benefit from vaccine injection with reduced rates of viral infection and incidence of severe cases. The combination of monoclonal antibodies and antiviral drugs is helpful to the COVID-19 treatment of patients with HM. On the other hand, COVID-19 infection can lead to a delay of hematopoietic recovery and low immunity in patients with HM. For HM patients with COVID-19 infection, to reduce the intensity and shorten the course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy is needed. This article will review the interaction between COVID-19 infection and HM.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Hematologic Neoplasms/complications
SARS-CoV-2