@article {pmid40106291,
year = {2025},
author = {Rupert, J and Groh, T and Allen, R},
title = {The Pretravel Consultation.},
journal = {American family physician},
volume = {111},
number = {3},
pages = {245-253},
pmid = {40106291},
issn = {1532-0650},
mesh = {Humans ; *Travel ; Referral and Consultation ; Malaria/prevention & control ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Travel Medicine/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Patients who will be traveling internationally should be advised to schedule dedicated pretravel assessments with their primary care physicians. The pretravel consultation is a vital opportunity for physicians to review preventive and risk-reduction strategies with travelers. Critical components of the patient interview include travel itinerary, anticipated high-risk activity, and medical history. This information affects subsequent recommendations for immunizations, malaria chemoprophylaxis, personal protective measures, and risk-reduction measures. Physicians should review whether routine and seasonal immunizations, including those for COVID-19 and influenza, are up to date and determine whether location-specific immunizations are warranted. Malaria prophylaxis and counseling on personal protective measures, including minimizing skin exposure and using insect repellant, permethrin-treated clothing, bed nets, and screens, are recommended for travelers visiting endemic areas. A single dose of antibiotics may be considered for self-treatment of traveler's diarrhea without features of dysentery. Travelers with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, should carry documentation of medical issues and enough medications and supplies to last for the duration of travel. Activity-specific concerns include sunburn, motor vehicle crashes, water safety, altitude sickness, and risks associated with sexual behaviors.},
}

Humans
*Travel
Referral and Consultation
Malaria/prevention & control
COVID-19/prevention & control
Travel Medicine/methods
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40106287,
year = {2025},
author = {Mulhem, E and Patalinghug, E and Eraqi, H},
title = {Acute Bronchitis: Rapid Evidence Review.},
journal = {American family physician},
volume = {111},
number = {3},
pages = {214-217},
pmid = {40106287},
issn = {1532-0650},
mesh = {Humans ; *Bronchitis/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Acute Disease ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; Diagnosis, Differential ; COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; Cough/etiology/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {Acute bronchitis is a clinical diagnosis and accounts for more than 3 million outpatient office visits in the United States annually. The differential diagnosis includes exacerbations of preexisting conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and heart failure or other causes of acute cough, including pertussis, COVID-19, influenza, and community-acquired pneumonia. Acute cough may present with or without sputum production. Diagnostic testing is not indicated unless there is concern for other potential causes, such as community-acquired pneumonia, influenza, or COVID-19. Acute bronchitis is a self-limiting disease. Evidence does not support the use of antitussives, honey, antihistamines, anticholinergics, oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or inhaled or oral corticosteroids. Antibiotics do not contribute to the overall improvement of acute bronchitis; although they may decrease the duration of cough by approximately 0.5 days, their use exposes patients to antibiotic-related adverse effects. Therefore, symptom relief and patient education regarding the expected duration of cough (2-3 weeks) are recommended for the management of acute bronchitis. Strategies shown to decrease antibiotic prescribing include delayed antibiotic prescriptions and describing acute bronchitis as a chest cold.},
}

Humans
*Bronchitis/diagnosis/drug therapy
Acute Disease
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
Diagnosis, Differential
COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
Cough/etiology/diagnosis

@article {pmid40104999,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, G and Gonzales, MLAM and Chan, WH and Memon, IA and Alam, A and Lee, H and Wickramasinghe, H and Pham, QT and Dayal, R and Levin, M and Huang, YC and Buttery, J and Ong-Lim, ALT and Kwan, MYW},
title = {Joint consensus on reducing the burden of invasive meningococcal disease in the Asia-Pacific region.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2477965},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2477965},
pmid = {40104999},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Meningococcal Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Asia/epidemiology ; *Meningococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; Consensus ; Immunization Programs ; COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Vaccination ; Cost of Illness ; Pacific Islands/epidemiology ; Serogroup ; },
abstract = {Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) imposes a heavy burden of mortality and life-long sequelae on infected individuals and has devastating impacts on their family members. International data show that meningococcal vaccination programs have reduced IMD incidence and changed the serogroup distribution of the disease. Furthermore, newer data show that although the public health measures in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic temporarily reduced the incidence of IMD, there has been a resurgence in the years since. In the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, many countries do not include meningococcal vaccines in their routine vaccination programs, and approaches to IMD surveillance are inconsistent. This review summarizes recent data and consensus statements from a group of experts from selected APAC countries on the burden of IMD in the region, evidence for vaccination, and how barriers to IMD vaccination may be addressed.},
}

Humans
*Meningococcal Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology
Asia/epidemiology
*Meningococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
Consensus
Immunization Programs
COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Incidence
Vaccination
Cost of Illness
Pacific Islands/epidemiology
Serogroup

@article {pmid40103738,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, J and Jiang, S and Jiang, J and Liu, Y},
title = {Global research landscape on nanotechnology in acute lung injury: a bibliometric analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in digital health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1472753},
pmid = {40103738},
issn = {2673-253X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute lung injury is a common respiratory emergency that seriously affects the life, health and quality of life of patients, especially after the global COVID-19 pneumonia. The application of nanotechnology in acute lung injury is promising. In response to the knowledge explosion resulting from rapid publication growth, we applied bibliometric analysis to explore the research profile and thematic trends in the field.

METHODS: Articles and reviews related to nanotechnology in acute lung injury from 2004 to 2023 were searched. Java-based Citespace, VOSviewer, and R software-based Bibiometrix were used to systematically evaluate publications by spatiotemporal distribution, author distribution, subject categories, topic distribution, references, and keywords.

RESULTS: A total of 1,347 publications were included. The number of papers related to nanotechnology in acute lung injury has grown exponentially over the past 20 years. China was the most productive country out of all 53 countries, followed by the United States. The Chinese Academy of Sciences was the most productive institution with 76 papers. PARTICLE AND FIBRE TOXICOLOGY was the most productive journal. The top five high-frequency keywords were inflammation, oxidative stress, toxicity, in vitro, respiratory-distress-syndrome. And the top five emerging keywords were delivery, covid-19, extracellular vesicles, therapy, sars-cov-2. Drug delivery are the focus of current research. Two emerging research areas represented the development trends: novel nanocarriers with higher efficiency and lower biotoxicity, and the other is research related to impact of nanomaterials in the progression of acute lung injury.

CONCLUSION: The field of nanotechnology in acute lung injury has been in a period of rapid development in the last three years. Delivery,targeted delivery and exosm have been the focus of current research in this field. Two emerging research areas represented the development trends:novel nanocarriers with higher efficiency and lower biotoxicity such as extracellular vesicles, exosomes and solid lipid nanoparticles, and the other is research related to impact of nanomaterials in the progression of acute lung injury.},
}

@article {pmid40103640,
year = {2025},
author = {Barreda, M and Cantarero-Prieto, D and Coca, D and Delgado, A and Lanza-León, P and Lera, J and Montalbán, R and Pérez, F},
title = {Transforming healthcare with chatbots: Uses and applications-A scoping review.},
journal = {Digital health},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {20552076251319174},
pmid = {40103640},
issn = {2055-2076},
abstract = {PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the demand and use of healthcare resources, prompting the search for efficient solutions under budgetary constraints. In this context, the increasing use of artificial intelligence and telemedicine has emerged as a key strategy to optimize healthcare delivery and resources. Consequently, chatbots have emerged as innovative tools in various healthcare fields, such as mental health and patient monitoring, offering therapeutic conversations and early interventions. This systematic review aims to explore the current state of chatbots in the healthcare sector, meticulously evaluating their effectiveness, practical applications, and potential benefits.

METHODS: This systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, utilizing three databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, to identify relevant studies on the use and cost of chatbots in health over the past 5 years.

RESULTS: Several articles were identified through the database search (n = 31). The chatbot interventions were categorized by similar types. The reviewed articles highlight the diverse applications of chatbot interventions in healthcare, including mental health support, medical information, appointment management, health education, lifestyle changes, and COVID-19 management, demonstrating significant potential across these areas.

CONCLUSION: Furthermore, there are challenges regarding the implementation of chatbots, compatibility with other systems, and ethical considerations that may arise in different healthcare settings. Addressing these issues will be essential to maximize the benefits of chatbots, mitigate risks, and ensure equitable access to these health innovations.},
}

@article {pmid40103201,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, W and Innes, K and Yu, S and Collie, A},
title = {Persistent Changes of Nurses' Practices and Working Conditions in High Acuity Settings in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Qualitative Meta-Aggregation.},
journal = {Journal of advanced nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jan.16887},
pmid = {40103201},
issn = {1365-2648},
support = {//Department of Education, Australian Government/ ; //Monash University/ ; },
abstract = {AIMS: To explore the persistent changes in working conditions and nursing practices in high acuity settings in the post COVID-19 pandemic era.

DESIGN: A qualitative systematic review using the meta-aggregation design of the Joanna Briggs Institute.

METHODS: After screening by two authors based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 36 studies were included. Quality was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Data were then extracted and synthesised. Confidence of findings was assessed using the ConQual approach.

DATA SOURCES: The electronic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and Scopus were searched in November 2023. Additional searches were conducted using the preprint servers: medRxiv, Open Science Foundation, Social Science Research Network, and Journal of Medical Internet Research.

RESULTS: Synthesised findings of 'unfavourable working conditions and changed nursing practices' and 'health concerns caused by the nursing practices' with eight categories were identified. Significant findings included increased workloads; overwhelming use and insufficient supply of personal protective equipment; decreased communication between nurses and patients, families, and other healthcare workers; lack of knowledge of the disease; and adequate support from coworkers, but inadequate support from nurse managers and physicians.

CONCLUSION: This study synthesised existing knowledge and offered insight into the nursing practices and working conditions of high acuity nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinical nurses and managers need to actively take action on those modifiable aspects of their practices in a future similar crisis. This review did not identify any studies focusing on high acuity nurses' working conditions and practices in the post-pandemic era. This kind of research is urgently needed.

IMPACT: Nurse managers and policy makers can use the findings of this review to help construct better working conditions for their high-acuity nursing staff in a future similar crisis. Frontline high-acuity clinical staff may use the findings of this review to help better guide their nursing practices and mitigate negative effects of a future similar crisis on their practice and health.

REPORTING METHOD: The study was reported according to the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research statement.

No patient or public contribution.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews: CRD42023473414.},
}

@article {pmid40102373,
year = {2025},
author = {Adewoye, A and Apenteng, B and Kimsey, L and Opoku, S},
title = {A Scoping Review to Explore the Intersection of Immigration-Related Policies and Immigrants' Health Access and Outcomes During the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of immigrant and minority health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40102373},
issn = {1557-1920},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated existing health inequities in the U.S., disproportionately affecting marginalized groups, particularly immigrants. Structural barriers, institutional inequalities, and exclusion from relief measures may have worsened these communities' health outcomes. Additionally, anti-immigrant rhetoric, restrictive policies, and fear of deportation may have deterred many immigrants from accessing essential services, affecting both their physical and mental health. This scoping review examines immigrant health access, outcomes, and relevant policies during the pandemic using the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Key findings highlight widespread distrust in government, limited healthcare access, and significant adverse mental health challenges among immigrants during the pandemic, which may be worsened by restrictive immigration policies such as revisions to the public charge rule.},
}

@article {pmid40101069,
year = {2025},
author = {Hasen, AA and Mohammed, AA and Mohammed, MA and Seid, AA},
title = {Magnitude and associated factors of common mental disorders among pregnant women during COVID-19 in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {11},
pages = {e41842},
pmid = {40101069},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Pregnancy ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Anxiety/epidemiology ; *Depression/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Stress, Psychological/epidemiology ; Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology/psychology ; Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Pregnant People/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pregnant women have multiple psychological distresses and are psychologically fragile. In Ethiopia due to COVID-19 anxiety, depression and stress among pregnant women were increased. This study aimed to provide comprehensive data on the prevalence and associated factors of common mental disorders during COVID-19 in Ethiopia.

METHODS: Data were searched from PubMed, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online from the December 2019 to August 2024. Two researchers extracted the data and accomplished the methodological quality valuation independently. Random-effect model used to estimate the pooled effect size and I2 and Q-statistic were used to check heterogeneity. Stata 14.0 (Stata Corp, College Station, Texas, USA) was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS: Eleven studies were included. From 6 studies the pooled prevalence of anxiety was 47% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.37 to 0.57, I2 = 96.00%, P < .001). Five studies reported about depression and the pooled prevalence was 32% (95% CI = 0.22 to 0.42, I2 = 96.00%, P < .001). Four studies reported about stress and the pooled prevalence was 26% (95% CI = 0.21 to 0.32, I2 = 94.7%, P < .001). Moreover, the associated factors of anxiety, depression and stress are summarized systematically.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 pandemic highly affects mental health of pregnant women in Ethiopia. Anxiety, depression and stress were most reported mental health problems during the pandemic. Appropriate psychological counseling programs should be applied for pregnant women to prevent mental health problems.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Female
Pregnancy
Ethiopia/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Anxiety/epidemiology
*Depression/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Stress, Psychological/epidemiology
Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology/psychology
Mental Disorders/epidemiology
Risk Factors
Pregnant People/psychology

@article {pmid40100618,
year = {2025},
author = {Loubet, P and Benotmane, I and Fourati, S and Malard, F and Vuotto, F and Blanchard, E and Raffi, F and Nguyen, S and de Prost, N and Avouac, J},
title = {Risk of Severe COVID-19 in Four Immunocompromised Populations: A French Expert Perspective.},
journal = {Infectious diseases and therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40100618},
issn = {2193-8229},
abstract = {Immunocompromised patients are disproportionately impacted by severe disease, hospitalization, and mortality associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To optimize the management of these patients in clinical practice, we convened an expert panel to review current evidence on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine responses and severe COVID-19 in immunocompromised populations. We identified four main immunocompromised groups-solid organ transplant recipients, patients receiving allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, patients treated for hematologic malignancies, and patients treated for inflammatory diseases-who mount suboptimal humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and are at increased risk of severe COVID-19-related outcomes. A wide range of risk factors were associated with reduced vaccine responses and/or poor outcomes, most commonly older age, comorbidities, and the type and number of immunosuppressive therapies. We believe that early identification and close monitoring of these at-risk patients, plus regular booster vaccinations, prophylactic monoclonal antibody therapy, non-pharmacologic prevention measures, prompt antiviral treatment, and other risk mitigation strategies, are critical to protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40100484,
year = {2025},
author = {Almulhim, M and Ghasemian, A and Memariani, M and Karami, F and Yassen, ASA and Alexiou, A and Papadakis, M and Batiha, GE},
title = {Drug repositioning as a promising approach for the eradication of emerging and re-emerging viral agents.},
journal = {Molecular diversity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40100484},
issn = {1573-501X},
abstract = {The global impact of emerging and re-emerging viral agents during epidemics and pandemics leads to serious health and economic burdens. Among the major emerging or re-emerging viruses include SARS-CoV-2, Ebola virus (EBOV), Monkeypox virus (Mpox), Hepatitis viruses, Zika virus, Avian flu, Influenza virus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Dengue fever virus (DENV), West Nile virus, Rhabdovirus, Sandfly fever virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus, and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify existing studies, clinical trials, and reviews that discuss drug repositioning strategies for the treatment of emerging and re-emerging viral infections using databases, such as PubMed, Scholar Google, Scopus, and Web of Science. By utilizing drug repositioning, pharmaceutical companies can take advantage of a cost-effective, accelerated, and effective strategy, which in turn leads to the discovery of innovative treatment options for patients. In light of antiviral drug resistance and the high costs of developing novel antivirals, drug repositioning holds great promise for more rapid substitution of approved drugs. Main repositioned drugs have included chloroquine, ivermectin, dexamethasone, Baricitinib, tocilizumab, Mab114 (Ebanga™), ZMapp (pharming), Artesunate, imiquimod, saquinavir, capmatinib, naldemedine, Trametinib, statins, celecoxib, naproxen, metformin, ruxolitinib, nitazoxanide, gemcitabine, Dorzolamide, Midodrine, Diltiazem, zinc acetate, suramin, 5-fluorouracil, quinine, minocycline, trifluoperazine, paracetamol, berbamine, Nifedipine, and chlorpromazine. This succinct review will delve into the topic of repositioned drugs that have been utilized to combat emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40098402,
year = {2025},
author = {Syal, K},
title = {The interplay of tuberculosis and COVID-19: Insights into global health challenges.},
journal = {Journal of biosciences},
volume = {50},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40098402},
issn = {0973-7138},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; Humans ; *Tuberculosis/epidemiology ; *Global Health ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Coinfection/epidemiology ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Mycobacterium tuberculosis/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB), an ancient disease, has plagued humankind for centuries, and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has worsened the crisis. This article discusses various intersecting aspects of TB and COVID-19, including transmission, co-infection, progression, and resurgence, which underline the necessity of a coordinated response. The respiratory transmission routes shared by both diseases, coupled with overlapping symptoms, complicate their diagnosis. The relationship between COVID-19 and TB is complex, where TB patients could be predisposed to severe COVID-19 due to potential lung damage inflicted by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Also, the disrupted healthcare services and quarantine practices attributed to COVID-19 pandemic could delay treatment and enable the spread of TB, highlighting their complex interplay. The sustenance of TB services amid the pandemic involving improvised diagnosis and access to treatment remains vital. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of coordination between policymakers, healthcare providers, and researchers for developing comprehensive plans for transparent global surveillance systems, treatment regimens, and providing equitable access to healthcare resources, which constitute the key steps for alleviating the dual threat of TB and COVID-19.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
Humans
*Tuberculosis/epidemiology
*Global Health
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Coinfection/epidemiology
Pandemics/prevention & control
Mycobacterium tuberculosis/pathogenicity

@article {pmid40097975,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheuyem, FZL and Amani, A and Nkodo, ICA and Boukeng, LBK and Edzamba, MF and Nouko, A and Guissana, EO and Ngos, CS and Achangwa, C and Mouangue, C},
title = {COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy in Cameroon: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1035},
pmid = {40097975},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; Cameroon ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The development of effective vaccines was a promising tool for ending the pandemic. However, the success of a vaccination programme hinges on achieving substantial community acceptance. In Cameroon, numerous studies have investigated the level of acceptance, hesitancy, and perception of COVID-19 vaccines, with mixed results. To provide a comprehensive understanding of these parameters, this meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled proportion of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, hesitancy and perception in Cameroon.

METHODS: A systematic search of online databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, was conducted to identify relevant research articles. This study adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The extracted data were compiled in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using R statistical software (version 4.3.3). The pooled proportion of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, hesitancy, and perception was calculated using a random-effects meta-analysis. Funnel plots, Egger's, and Begg's tests were used to assess publication bias.

RESULTS: Of the 1,346 records identified through the database search, 20 research articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The random-effects model showed that approximately 31.21% (95% CI: 23.49-38.94) of the participants was willing to accept the COVID-19 vaccine. More than two-thirds of the population (68.49%; 95% CI: 60.65-76.34) were vaccine hesitant. Half of the participants (51.81%; 95% CI: 42.70-60.93), had a negative perception of the COVID-19 vaccine. The acceptance rate progressed from the first semester of 2021 (27.21%; 95% CI: 10.38-44.05) to the first semester of 2022 (45.56%; 95% CI: 25.00-66.12). The pooled vaccine acceptance rate was 29.29% (95% CI: 19.86-38.72) for the general population and 39.24% (95% CI: 22.84-55.64) for healthcare workers. The pooled vaccine hesitancy rate was 70.39% (95% CI: 61.30-79.80) for the general population and 57.42% (95% CI: 4.05-71.80) for healthcare workers.

CONCLUSION: Although progress in vaccine acceptance, targeted interventions remain necessary to address vaccine hesitancy in the country. Strategies such as enhancing access to accurate information, fostering trust in institutions, and strengthening community engagement remain crucial for increasing COVID-19 vaccine uptake.},
}

Humans
Cameroon
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40097760,
year = {2025},
author = {Märkl, B and Schaller, T},
title = {[Legal and organizational aspects of autopsy in Germany].},
journal = {Pathologie (Heidelberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40097760},
issn = {2731-7196},
abstract = {The article explores the legal and organizational aspects of autopsies in Germany. Despite their importance in clinical medicine, the number of clinical autopsies has been declining for decades due to work-related, organizational, and legal challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary resurgence of interest in autopsies, although this interest has since waned. Initiatives like the National Autopsy Network (NATON) and the National Autopsy Register (NAREG) have been established to promote research and quality assurance.Legally, autopsies in Germany are regulated at both federal and state levels. Variations in regulations between states, especially concerning consent and the definition of a corpse, complicate the process. Social insurance-related autopsies are crucial in clarifying occupational diseases and accidents.Organizationally, autopsies require consent from relatives, which is often a challenging step. However, the introduction of remuneration for clinical autopsies has improved the framework. Initiatives such as the S1 guideline and international research projects have reinforced the role of autopsies. The article underscores the importance of autopsies in quality assurance and research, especially given the rise in occupational diseases and the need for improved clinical diagnoses.},
}

@article {pmid39326926,
year = {2025},
author = {Farah, W and Abusalih, MF and Hasan, B and Lees, EH and Fleti, F and Elkhatib, WY and Johnson, BD and Toups, G and Wolf, M and Murad, MH},
title = {Safety implications of mask use: a systematic review and evidence map.},
journal = {BMJ evidence-based medicine},
volume = {30},
number = {2},
pages = {91-103},
doi = {10.1136/bmjebm-2024-113028},
pmid = {39326926},
issn = {2515-4478},
mesh = {Humans ; *Masks/adverse effects ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Respiratory Protective Devices/adverse effects ; Cognition ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Widespread use of respiratory protection masks has become a critical component of public health response.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review synthesises the evidence on the acute physiological, cognitive and psychological impacts associated with different types of masks and provides an evidence map of research gaps.

METHODS: A comprehensive search from 2000 to 2023 was conducted across multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane databases, Scopus and PubMed). An umbrella systematic overview was conducted for physiological outcomes using existing systematic reviews. We conducted de novo systematic reviews for cognitive and psychological outcomes. Pairs of independent reviewers determined eligibility, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Certainty at an outcome level was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

RESULTS: The search resulted in 13 370 potential citations, leading to the inclusion of nine systematic reviews for physiological outcomes (87 primary studies) and 10 primary studies for cognitive and psychological outcomes (3815 participants), with the majority of participants being healthy adults. Studies evaluating physiological outcomes demonstrated that various types of masks have little to no significant difference in heart rate (surgical mask (mean difference (MD): 0.96 (-1.01 to 2.93)), N95 mask (MD: 1.63 (-2.79 to 6.05)) and cloth mask (MD: -0.94 (-6.39 to 4.52))) or respiratory rate during rest or exercise (surgical mask (MD: -1.35 (-3.00 to 0.29)), N95 mask (MD: 0.10 (-3.10 to 3.29)) and cloth mask (MD: -2.57 (-6.44 to 1.29)) (low certainty for most outcomes)). Mask use may be associated with very small changes in minute ventilation (surgical mask (MD: -13.9 (-20.30 to -7.53)) and N95 mask (MD: -16.3 (-28.7 to -3.9))), tidal volume (surgical mask (MD: -0.14 (-0.23 to -0.05)) and N95 mask (MD: -0.10 (-0.33 to 0.13))), oxygen saturation (surgical mask (MD: -0.59% (-0.87 to -0.30)), N95 mask (MD: -0.35% (-0.75 to 0.05)) and cloth mask (MD: -0.50% (-1.23; 0.24))), carbon dioxide partial pressure (surgical mask (standardised MD (SMD): 1.17 (0.70 to 1.64)) and N95 mask (SMD: 0.43 (0.08 to 0.79))) and exercise performance (surgical mask (SMD: -0.12 (-0.39 to 0.15)), N95 mask (SMD: -0.42 (-0.76 to -0.08)) and cloth mask (SMD: -0.26 (-0.54 to 0.02)) (low certainty for most outcomes)). Studies evaluating cognitive outcomes showed mixed results. Some studies reported reduced mental workload, and others showed no significant effect or decreased performance. The impact on attention, errors and reaction time was variable. These studies were small and at moderate to high risk of bias. Evidence was insufficient to estimate the effect of mask use on psychological outcomes (claustrophobia, depression and anxiety) as these studies were small, non-longitudinal and at high risk of bias.

CONCLUSION: This evidence map provides a comprehensive insight into the multifaceted impact of respiratory protection mask use, and highlights the limited certainty in the available body of evidence. This evidence map supports the development of future research agenda.},
}

Humans
*Masks/adverse effects
COVID-19/prevention & control
Respiratory Protective Devices/adverse effects
Cognition
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40096951,
year = {2025},
author = {Nelson, BK and Farah, LN and Saint, SA and Song, C and Field, TS and Sossi, V and Stoessl, AJ and Wellington, C and Honer, WG and Lang, D and Silverberg, ND and Panenka, WJ},
title = {Diffusion tensor imaging after COVID-19 infection: A systematic review.},
journal = {NeuroImage},
volume = {310},
number = {},
pages = {121150},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121150},
pmid = {40096951},
issn = {1095-9572},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Most COVID-19 neuroimaging research focuses on clinically evident lesions occurring during the acute period after infection. Chronic effects on brain structure, especially at a microstructural level, are less well defined. Existing advanced neuroimaging studies report inconsistent differences in white matter integrity after COVID-19 infection. Our aim was to systematically evaluate the advanced neuroimaging literature with a specific focus on examining diffusion MRI (dMRI) abnormalities observable after the resolution of the acute phase of COVID-19 illness.

METHODS: A search of the literature was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus on May 27th, 2023, and an updated search was performed September 20th, 2024. Inclusion criteria were a quantitative comparison of dMRI metrics between COVID-19 patients and non-COVID-19 volunteers with MRI acquired >6 weeks after COVID-19. Studies that included only subgroups of COVID-19 patients with specific symptoms, case reports, and post-mortem studies were excluded. Forwards and backwards citation chasing were performed.

RESULTS: The initial search identified 1709 unique records, and 11 met inclusion criteria. Most studies included hospitalized COVID-19 patients, with brain MRI acquired between 2 and 6 months after COVID-19 infection. The majority of studies reported lower fractional anisotropy and higher mean diffusivity in the post-COVID-19 cohort, compared to non-COVID-19 controls. However, there were inconsistent findings, with one study reporting higher fractional anisotropy after COVID-19 infection. Cohorts with a more severe acute COVID-19 illness tended to have lower fractional anisotropy and higher mean diffusivity than cohorts with a milder illness course. Compared to shorter follow-up periods, a longer time between COVID-19 and MRI was associated with fewer differences between COVID-19 patients and non-COVID-19 volunteers.

CONCLUSION: A review of the literature indicates that the heterogeneity of findings regarding dMRI metrics after the resolution of the acute phase of COVID-19 illness may be due in part to the severity of COVID-19 illness and the time between COVID-19 and MRI. Future studies should also consider how different SARS-CoV-2 variants differentially affect the structural brain differences after COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40096057,
year = {2025},
author = {Shyong, O and Alfakhri, N and Bates, SV and Carroll, RW and Gallagher, K and Huang, L and Madhavan, V and Murphy, SA and Okrzesik, SA and Yager, PH and Yonker, LM and Lok, J},
title = {Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: A Comprehensive Review Over the Past Five Years.},
journal = {Journal of intensive care medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {8850666251320558},
doi = {10.1177/08850666251320558},
pmid = {40096057},
issn = {1525-1489},
abstract = {Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: A Comprehensive Review over the Past Five Years This review explores many facets of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) over the previous 5 years. In the time since the COVID 19 pandemic gripped our medical systems, we can now explore the data that has been collected from the previous years. The literature has allowed us to better understand the impact of COVID 19 and the post illness occurrence of a severe systemic inflammatory disease on our youngest patient populations. This paper will outline the pathophysiology of MIS-C, the treatments utilized, short and long-term patient outcomes including epidemiological factors.},
}

@article {pmid39362575,
year = {2025},
author = {Holland, J and Sheehan, D and Brown, S and O'Flanagan, S and Savinelli, S and O'Keeffe, F and Bramham, J},
title = {Immune Response and Cognitive Impairment in Post-COVID Syndrome: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {The American journal of medicine},
volume = {138},
number = {4},
pages = {698-711.e2},
doi = {10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.09.022},
pmid = {39362575},
issn = {1555-7162},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/psychology/complications ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Altered immune response and cognitive difficulties have been demonstrated in studies of post-COVID syndrome, including differences in immune status and cognitive functioning in the months following infection. This review aimed to examine immune status and cognitive differences in post-COVID syndrome 12 or more weeks after COVID-19 infection. A further aim of this review was to explore a link between immune response and the cognitive deficits observed in this group.

METHODS: A systematic review was carried out using PubMed, PsychInfo, EMBASE, and Web of Science electronic databases of observational studies 12+ weeks after COVID-19 infection, with assessment of immune status and cognitive function in post-COVID syndrome samples. This review protocol was recorded on PROSPERO with registration number CRD42022366920.

RESULTS: Following eligibility screening, 11 studies met inclusion criteria and were selected for our review. Six of eight studies that examined between-group differences in specific domains suggested impaired cognition in the post-COVID syndrome population, with the domain of executive function particularly affected. Of 11 studies with immune data, 7 studies reported increased markers of inflammation in the post-COVID syndrome group, when compared with an age- and sex-matched "healthy control" sample, or population norms. Finally, when immune function and cognition are examined together, 6 studies presented results indicating a significant association between elevated immune response and cognitive function in post-COVID syndrome.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights the frequency of cognitive difficulties months after COVID-19 infection and explores heightened immune response as a predictor of this change. Six studies suggest that immune status is a predictor of cognitive function, examining a marker of immune function and objective cognitive performance at 12 or more weeks following infection. Future studies of cognitive function in post-COVID syndrome are needed to explore this relationship and underlying mechanisms leading to changes in cognitive performance.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/psychology/complications
*Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39089436,
year = {2025},
author = {Markser, A and Vöckel, J and Schneider, A and Baumeister-Lingens, L and Sigrist, C and Koenig, J},
title = {Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation for Post-COVID-19 Conditions: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {The American journal of medicine},
volume = {138},
number = {4},
pages = {681-697},
doi = {10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.07.007},
pmid = {39089436},
issn = {1555-7162},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications ; *Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation/methods ; Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Vagus Nerve Stimulation/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alongside the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, the number of patients with persistent symptoms following acute infection with SARS-CoV-2 is of concern. It is estimated that at least 65 million people worldwide meet criteria for what the World Health Organization (WHO) defines as "post-COVID-19 condition" - a multisystem disease comprising a wide range of symptoms. Effective treatments are lacking. In the present review, we aim to summarize the current evidence for the effectiveness of non-invasive or minimally invasive brain stimulation techniques in reducing symptoms of post-COVID-19.

METHODS: After pre-registration with PROSPERO, the review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines (PRISMA). The four electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Scopus were systematically searched for all relevant studies through April 2nd, 2024. Two independent investigators selected empirical papers that reported on the application of non- or minimally invasive brain stimulation in patients with post-COVID-19 conditions.

RESULTS: A total of 19 studies were identified, one using transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), another using transorbital alternating current stimulation (toACS), 6 studies on transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and 11 studies on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for the treatment of post-COVID-19 symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS: Existing studies report first promising results, illustrating improvement in clinical outcome parameters. Yet, the mechanistic understanding of post-COVID-19 and how brain stimulation techniques may be benefitial are limited. Directions for future research in the field are discussed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications
*Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation/methods
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Vagus Nerve Stimulation/methods

@article {pmid37818630,
year = {2025},
author = {Oh, Y and Jung, YJ and Sujata, P and Kim, M and Yon, DK and Lee, SW and Cho, K and Koyanagi, A and Dai, Z and Smith, L and Shin, JI and Kim, E},
title = {Spin in randomized controlled trials of pharmacology in COVID-19: A systematic review.},
journal = {Accountability in research},
volume = {32},
number = {3},
pages = {214-232},
doi = {10.1080/08989621.2023.2269083},
pmid = {37818630},
issn = {1545-5815},
mesh = {Humans ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Spin, defined as the misrepresentation of the results of a study, could negate the validity of scientific findings. To explore the manifestation of spin, and identify the factors affecting spin in COVID-19 RCTs, a systematic review was performed from PubMed/Medline, National Institutes of Health, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science. RCTs on pharmacotherapy for COVID-19 with nonsignificant primary outcomes published in 2020 were included. 21 abstracts (33.9%) and 28 main texts (45.2%) were found to contain spin in at least one section. In the conclusion section, other spin strategies beautifying their findings that were not included in the abstract were found in the main texts. More factors influencing the level of spin were found in abstracts than in the main texts, but most of the levels of spin in abstracts were comparable to those in the main texts. Although common factors that affected the manifestation of spin in the main texts and abstracts were the sample size and type of journal, further research to determine multicollinearity between significant factors and the manifestation of spin is required.},
}

Humans
*Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid36368577,
year = {2023},
author = {Viedma-Martínez, M and Gallo-Pineda, G and Jiménez-Gallo, D},
title = {[Translated article] Practical Guide to New Treatments for SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Dermatology Patients Being Treated With Common Immunomodulators.},
journal = {Actas dermo-sifiliograficas},
volume = {114},
number = {1},
pages = {T49-T53},
doi = {10.1016/j.ad.2022.07.024},
pmid = {36368577},
issn = {1578-2190},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Dermatology ; Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects ; Disease Susceptibility/chemically induced ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators are widely used in dermatology. Some of these drugs, however, can increase the risk of severe COVID-19. New antivirals against SARS-CoV-2 have been shown to reduce progression to COVID-19 pneumonia in susceptible patients, but their availability is limited. On May 23, 2022, the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) updated its priority eligibility criteria for SARS-CoV-2 antiviral therapy. In this practical guide, we review the indications for these new drugs and provide guidance on which patients with mild to moderate COVID might benefit from their use in dermatology.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
*Dermatology
Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects
Disease Susceptibility/chemically induced
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40095494,
year = {2025},
author = {Merino-Casquero, A and Andrade-Gómez, E and Fagundo-Rivera, J and Fernández-León, P},
title = {Beyond Confinement: A Systematic Review on Factors Influencing Binge Drinking Among Adolescents and Young Adults During the Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40095494},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Objectives: This study aimed to enhance the understanding of factors influencing changes in binge drinking (BD) behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on its impact on the health of individuals aged 12 to 25 years. Methods: A systematic review was conducted, encompassing studies published between January 2020 and September 2024. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, following PRISMA guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) review protocols. Inclusion criteria targeted studies focusing on BD during the COVID-19 pandemic in adolescents or school-aged individuals without specific medical conditions. Exclusions included studies limited to a single gender, ethnicity, or profession, as well as doctoral theses and editorials. JBI tools were used to assess the quality of the selected studies. Results: From 33 studies (19 cross-sectional and 14 longitudinal), trends in BD during the pandemic varied: 2 studies reported an increase, while 21 indicated a decrease. Key factors linked to increased BD included pandemic stressors (e.g., isolation, social disconnection and non-compliance with restrictions), psychosocial issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, boredom, and low resilience), prior substance use, and sociodemographic variables (e.g., low education, economic extremes, living arrangements, and limited family support). Female gender and academic disengagement were also risk factors. Conversely, factors like stay-at-home orders, fear of contagion, family support, studying health sciences, and resilient coping strategies contributed to reduced BD. Other variables, such as pandemic stress and self-efficacy, had inconsistent effects. Conclusions: Factors contributing to increased BD included pandemic-related stress, mental health conditions, and unhealthy habits, while protective factors included stay-at-home orders, social support, and resilient coping. The study highlights the need for effective prevention and intervention strategies, emphasizing a holistic approach in healthcare, early detection, and tailored interventions, particularly for vulnerable groups such as adolescents.},
}

@article {pmid40095129,
year = {2025},
author = {Giel, K and Zipfel, S and Schag, K},
title = {[Binge Eating Disorder-State of the art].},
journal = {Der Nervenarzt},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40095129},
issn = {1433-0407},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Eating disorders are complex mental disorders the prevalence of which has continued to increase, particularly since the coronavirus pandemic. Binge Eating Disorder has been newly included as a diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental disorders 5 (DSM-5) and the International Classification of Diseases 11th revision (ICD-11).

AIM OF THE WORK: We present a state of the art overview of diagnostic criteria, psychopathology, differential diagnostics, epidemiology, comorbidities, developmental and maintenance factors, treatment and care situation of binge eating disorder.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A narrative review is provided.

RESULTS: Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent binge eating with loss of control. It is the most common eating disorder in the general population and is often associated with overweight or obesity. Neurobiological models see changes in the areas of emotion regulation, reward processing and impulse control as etiological contributions to binge eating disorder. Psychotherapy is the treatment of choice for binge eating disorder, which often goes undetected and untreated. A reason for this is the experienced or feared stigmatization, shame and feelings of guilt of those affected.

DISCUSSION: As the diagnosis of a binge eating disorder influences the choice of treatment and the prognosis of both the eating disorder and a potentially comorbid obesity, active clarification of the eating behavior and a possible eating disorder in the context of motivational interviewing is essential.},
}

@article {pmid40094929,
year = {2025},
author = {Patrascu, R and Dumitru, CS},
title = {Advances in Understanding Inflammation and Tissue Damage: Markers of Persistent Sequelae in COVID-19 Patients.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40094929},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {This review explores the crucial role of established and emerging biomarkers in the diagnosis, management, and understanding of post-COVID-19 conditions. With COVID-19 affecting multiple organ systems, biomarkers have been instrumental in identifying ongoing inflammation and tissue damage, facilitating early diagnosis and prognostication. Specifically, markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and novel entities such as soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) provide insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms and predict long-term outcomes. This review highlights the integration of these biomarkers into clinical workflows and their implications for personalized medicine, emphasizing their potential in guiding therapeutic interventions and monitoring recovery. Future directions suggest a focus on longitudinal studies to explore biomarker trajectories and their interaction with therapeutic outcomes, aiming to enhance the management of post-COVID-19 conditions and refine public health strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40094895,
year = {2025},
author = {Malik, S and Ahsan, O and Muhammad, K and Munawar, N and Waheed, Y},
title = {Phagetherapy updates: New frontiers against antibiotic resistance.},
journal = {European journal of microbiology & immunology},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1556/1886.2024.00126},
pmid = {40094895},
issn = {2062-509X},
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance is a major problem in the healthcare industry, and it presents difficulties in managing bacterial diseases worldwide. The need to find alternative antibiotic-containing methods is thus a major area for the scientific community to work on. Bacteriophage therapy is an interesting alternative that has been used in scientific research for a long time to tackle antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The purpose of this review was to compile the latest data on bacteriophages, which are progressively being used as alternatives to antibiotics, and to identify the mechanisms associated with phage therapy. The results section delves into the growing challenges posed by antibiotics and explores the potential of bacteriophages as therapeutic alternatives. This study discusses how phages can decrease antibiotic resistance, highlighting their role in modulating microbiomes and addressing various complications. This study explored the intriguing question of whether bacteriophages can combat nonbacterial diseases and examined their indirect use in pest control. In addition, this study explores the application of the CRISPR-Cas system in combating antibiotic resistance and specifically addresses phage therapy for secondary bacterial infections in COVID-19. We will further discuss whether bacteriophages are a noteworthy alternative to antibiotics by considering the evolutionary trade-offs between phages and antibiotic resistance. This section concludes by outlining future perspectives and acknowledging limitations, particularly in the context of phage and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated phage therapy. The methodology adopted for this study is a comprehensive research strategy using the Google Scholar and PubMed databases, among others. In conclusion, phage therapy is a promising strategy for tackling antibiotic-resistant bacteria, contributing to improved food production and mitigating secondary health effects. However, effective regulation requires careful selection of phages in conjunction with antibiotics to ensure judicious control of the coevolutionary dynamics between phages and antibiotics.},
}

@article {pmid40094893,
year = {2025},
author = {Mara, G and Nini, G and Cotoraci, C},
title = {Impact of Pulmonary Comorbidities on COVID-19: Acute and Long-Term Evaluations.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40094893},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Pulmonary comorbidities, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), have emerged as critical factors influencing the severity and outcomes of COVID-19. This review aims to evaluate the interplay between these comorbidities and COVID-19, both during the acute phase and in long-term recovery, focusing on their impact on clinical management and outcomes. Methods: This systematic review examined studies sourced from major medical databases, including PubMed and Scopus, using keywords such as "COVID-19", "pulmonary comorbidities", "long COVID", and "respiratory sequelae". Peer-reviewed articles published from January 2020 to the present were included, with data extracted to evaluate both the acute and long-term effects of these comorbidities on COVID-19 patients. Results: Patients with COPD demonstrated significantly higher risks of severe COVID-19, including increased hospitalization and mortality. Asthma, while less consistently associated with severe outcomes, showed a variable risk based on disease control. ILDs were strongly correlated with poor outcomes, including higher rates of respiratory failure and mortality. Long-term complications, such as persistent dyspnea, impaired lung function, and structural changes like fibrosis, were prevalent in patients recovering from moderate to severe COVID-19. These complications adversely affected quality of life and increased healthcare dependency. Conclusions: Pulmonary comorbidities amplify both the acute severity and long-term respiratory consequences of COVID-19. Effective management necessitates tailored strategies addressing both phases, integrating rehabilitation and continuous monitoring to mitigate chronic impairments. Future research should prioritize understanding the mechanisms behind these interactions to inform public health interventions and improve patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40094303,
year = {2024},
author = {Bernal-Delgado, E and Angulo-Pueyo, E and Ridao-López, M and Urbanos-Garrido, RM and Oliva-Moreno, J and García-Abiétar, D and Hernández-Quevedo, C},
title = {Spain: Health System Review.},
journal = {Health systems in transition},
volume = {26},
number = {3},
pages = {1-187},
pmid = {40094303},
issn = {1817-6127},
mesh = {Humans ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; Spain/epidemiology ; Health Expenditures/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Health Care Reform/organization & administration ; National Health Programs/organization & administration ; Primary Health Care/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {This review of the Spanish health system analyses recent developments in health organization and governance, financing, health care provision, recent reforms and health system performance. Overall health status continues to improve in Spain, which presents the highest life expectancy in the European Union - although some socioeconomic inequalities in health persist and risk factors such as overweight, tobacco and alcohol consumption and illegal drug use remain a concern. The Spanish national health system (SNS) provides universal coverage, and it is mainly funded by taxes. Health competences are transferred to the regions, while the Ministry of Health is responsible for the overall coordination of the SNS. Health spending has seen a large increase as a percentage of GDP, following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, remaining high in 2021 (10.8% of GDP). While the benefits package is comprehensive, cost-sharing is required for pharmaceuticals and some prostheses; nonetheless, out-of-pocket (OOP) payments do not result in catastrophic spending for households. Co-payments have been largely reformed with further exemptions in place since 2020. Primary care remains at the centre of the SNS, with the Family Doctor 1 acting as the gatekeeper to specialized and hospital care. The 2019 Strategic Framework for Primary and Community Care aims for primary care to adapt to and address new epidemiological, societal and technological challenges that have emerged over the last decade. Regarding provision of care, there is a shortage of physicians in some specialties and problems in covering vacancies in some rural areas of the country, particularly for primary care physicians. Health system reforms since 2018 have focused on widening the population covered by the health system, reducing co-payments, improving the scope of coverage in terms of increasing provided services, and the reinforcement of primary care. Future challenges for the health system include addressing access gaps, such as the limited coverage of some services (such as dental and optical care), and large waiting lists for some services. Some gaps in efficiency remain, such as the low numbers of qualified personnel in some medical specialties, the shortage of mental health resources, the underuse of effective treatments, and the overuse of non-appropriate or ineffective procedures.},
}

Humans
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Spain/epidemiology
Health Expenditures/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19/epidemiology
Health Care Reform/organization & administration
National Health Programs/organization & administration
Primary Health Care/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40094257,
year = {2025},
author = {Vinicius de Sousa, M and Mariani, G and Ribeiro Alves, MAVF and Mazzali, M},
title = {Segmental and Focal Glomerulosclerosis Secondary to MELAS Syndrome and Long-Term Outcomes After Kidney Transplant: Case Report and Literature Review.},
journal = {Experimental and clinical transplantation : official journal of the Middle East Society for Organ Transplantation},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {146-150},
doi = {10.6002/ect.2025.0006},
pmid = {40094257},
issn = {2146-8427},
mesh = {Humans ; *Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects ; Female ; Adult ; *MELAS Syndrome/genetics/complications/diagnosis/surgery ; *Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/diagnosis/surgery/etiology ; Treatment Outcome ; Time Factors ; *Kidney Failure, Chronic/surgery/etiology/diagnosis ; *Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Biopsy ; },
abstract = {Mitochondrial disease is a heterogeneous group of disorders with variable clinical and laboratory manifestations. The most common mitochondrial DNA defect is the transition of adenine to guanine at position 3243 (m.3243A≥G) on the MT-TL1 gene, causing a systemic syndrome known as MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes). The kidney is particularly susceptible to mitochondrial diseases due to its high oxygen consumption and abundance of mitochondria. Tubular cells and podocytes can be affected by these diseases, resulting in diverse clinical and laboratory manifestations. We reported a case of a 31-year-old female patient with bilateral sensorineural deafness diagnosed with the m.3243A≥G sequence variant in adulthood. At the time of diagnosis, she had end-stage renal disease secondary to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Her sister was diagnosed with MELAS syndrome, and mitochondrial disease was investigated. After 27 months on dialysis, our patient received a kidney transplant from a deceased donor and presented nonnephrotic range proteinuria within the first month after transplant. Despite developing de novo donor-specific antibodies after COVID-19, the function of the transplanted kidney remained stable. With adjustment to the maintenance immunosuppression therapy, there was a gradual decrease in the mean fluorescence intensity of de novo donor-specific antibodies. The graft function and proteinuria remained stable throughout a 5-year follow-up, which is similar to a follow-up reported in the literature. The kidney is especially vulnerable to mitochondrial diseases. In this report, posttransplant outcomes were satisfactory in a 5-year follow-up, similar to those reported by other authors.},
}

Humans
*Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects
Female
Adult
*MELAS Syndrome/genetics/complications/diagnosis/surgery
*Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/diagnosis/surgery/etiology
Treatment Outcome
Time Factors
*Kidney Failure, Chronic/surgery/etiology/diagnosis
*Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use
DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics
Biopsy

@article {pmid39999074,
year = {2025},
author = {Laturski, AE and Dulay, MT and Perry, JL and DeSimone, JM},
title = {Transfection via RNA-Based Nanoparticles: Comparing Encapsulation vs Adsorption Approaches of RNA Incorporation.},
journal = {Bioconjugate chemistry},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {367-376},
doi = {10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.5c00028},
pmid = {39999074},
issn = {1520-4812},
mesh = {*Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Adsorption ; Humans ; *Transfection/methods ; *RNA/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Lipids/chemistry ; COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Historically, RNA delivery via nanoparticles has primarily relied on encapsulation, as demonstrated by lipid nanoparticles in SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Concerns about RNA degradation on nanoparticle surfaces initially limited the exploration of adsorption-based approaches. However, recent advancements have renewed interest in adsorption as a viable alternative. This Viewpoint explores the approaches of RNA incorporation in nanoparticles, comparing encapsulation, adsorption, and the combination of encapsulation and adsorption, and presents a framework to guide the selection of the most suitable strategy based on general characteristics.},
}

*Nanoparticles/chemistry
Adsorption
Humans
*Transfection/methods
*RNA/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2
Lipids/chemistry
COVID-19
COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry

@article {pmid39985290,
year = {2025},
author = {Chalmers, H},
title = {A commentary on Zuniga-Montanez and Davies et al.: how did COVID-19 affect young children's language environment and language development? A scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied disciplines},
volume = {66},
number = {4},
pages = {602-605},
doi = {10.1111/jcpp.14132},
pmid = {39985290},
issn = {1469-7610},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Child ; *Language Development ; Child, Preschool ; },
abstract = {It was early 2020, a week or two into Hilary Term, what everyone else calls Spring Term, but we at Oxford love our arcane traditions. I recall one of my graduate students, from China, coming to me ashen-faced at the end one of my lectures on the effects of bilingualism on the linguistic and cognitive development of young learners. "Please be careful," she said. "Have you heard about the disease. It's really scary. Please look after your family." Over the preceding Christmas break, news had started to filter through about a new form of flu that had spread rapidly from Wuhan in Eastern China to other parts of the country and was now starting to emerge in other parts of the world. We were starting to see desperate images of enforced quarantine, coerced separation of infected individuals from their loved ones, the rapid construction of temporary hospitals to house the unwell, and of course, school closures. It didn't look good. But I had seen similar outbreaks in the past. I had been working in Southeast Asia during the avian flu epidemic of 2003-04, and I was still there when swine flu broke out in 2009. Both were worrying, but neither had come to anything that could be classified as universally threatening. The school where I worked sent colleagues and children to be tested at the first sign of a tickly throat or stuffy nose, and a strict and regular cleaning and hand sanitising regime was implemented.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Child
*Language Development
Child, Preschool

@article {pmid39962044,
year = {2025},
author = {Rountree, L and Lin, YT and Liu, C and Salvatore, M and Admon, A and Nallamothu, B and Singh, K and Basu, A and Bu, F and Mukherjee, B},
title = {Reporting of Fairness Metrics in Clinical Risk Prediction Models Used for Precision Health: Scoping Review.},
journal = {Online journal of public health informatics},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {e66598},
doi = {10.2196/66598},
pmid = {39962044},
issn = {1947-2579},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Clinical risk prediction models integrated into digitized health care informatics systems hold promise for personalized primary prevention and care, a core goal of precision health. Fairness metrics are important tools for evaluating potential disparities across sensitive features, such as sex and race or ethnicity, in the field of prediction modeling. However, fairness metric usage in clinical risk prediction models remains infrequent, sporadic, and rarely empirically evaluated.

OBJECTIVE: We seek to assess the uptake of fairness metrics in clinical risk prediction modeling through an empirical evaluation of popular prediction models for 2 diseases, 1 chronic and 1 infectious disease.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping literature review in November 2023 of recent high-impact publications on clinical risk prediction models for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and COVID-19 using Google Scholar.

RESULTS: Our review resulted in a shortlist of 23 CVD-focused articles and 22 COVID-19 pandemic-focused articles. No articles evaluated fairness metrics. Of the CVD-focused articles, 26% used a sex-stratified model, and of those with race or ethnicity data, 92% had study populations that were more than 50% from 1 race or ethnicity. Of the COVID-19 models, 9% used a sex-stratified model, and of those that included race or ethnicity data, 50% had study populations that were more than 50% from 1 race or ethnicity. No articles for either disease stratified their models by race or ethnicity.

CONCLUSIONS: Our review shows that the use of fairness metrics for evaluating differences across sensitive features is rare, despite their ability to identify inequality and flag potential gaps in prevention and care. We also find that training data remain largely racially and ethnically homogeneous, demonstrating an urgent need for diversifying study cohorts and data collection. We propose an implementation framework to initiate change, calling for better connections between theory and practice when it comes to the adoption of fairness metrics for clinical risk prediction. We hypothesize that this integration will lead to a more equitable prediction world.},
}

@article {pmid39466029,
year = {2025},
author = {Zar, HJ},
title = {New advances in RSV: Is prevention attainable?.},
journal = {Pediatric pulmonology},
volume = {60 Suppl 1},
number = {},
pages = {S120-S122},
doi = {10.1002/ppul.27310},
pmid = {39466029},
issn = {1099-0496},
support = {//None/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control ; Infant ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/therapeutic use ; Infant, Newborn ; Female ; Child, Preschool ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), hospitalization, and mortality in infants and young children globally. The greatest burden of severe disease and mortality occurs in low-middle income countries (LMICs), with large and vulnerable childhood populations. The highest rates of RSV-hospitalization occur in healthy-term infants under 3 months of age. Preterm infants, children with chronic lung disease of prematurity, Down's syndrome, congenital heart disease, or immunodeficiency also have a higher risk of severe RSV-LRTI. Early-life RSV-LRTI has also been associated with chronic sequelae, including recurrent LRTI, recurrent wheezing, asthma, and lung function impairment. A RSV pre-fusion (F) maternal vaccine and long-acting monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab) have been licensed for the prevention of RSV-LRTI in infants and young children. Studies show high efficacy and effectiveness particularly for preventing severe RSV-LRTI. Maternal RSV vaccine given at 24-36 weeks of pregnancy was effective in preventing RSV medically attended LRTI and severe RSV-LRTI through 6 months after birth in a phase 3 study conducted in 18 countries over two RSV seasons. Vaccination was safe with no significant difference in adverse events between infants born to mothers who received RSV preF vaccine compared to placebo. A numerical imbalance in preterm births that occurred predominantly in South Africa, unrelated to vaccine timing or gestational age at vaccination and unassociated with mortality, coincided with COVID-19 delta and omicron waves. Nirsevimab, given as a single dose prior or during the RSV season, had high efficacy in preventing RSV-LRTI hospitalization in infants in preterm and in full-term infants, as well as in young children with underlying conditions through 150 days post administration in phase 2 and 3 trials. High effectiveness against hospitalization or severe disease in infants and in at-risk children up to 2 years of age has also been reported in several countries where implementation has occurred. RSV-LRTI is now a preventable disease in infants and young children. Rapid implementation of these highly effective interventions has occurred in many high-income countries, but access remains very limited in LMICs. Access to such RSV preventive interventions is urgently needed for all children to strengthen child health and promote global equity.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control
Infant
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/therapeutic use
Infant, Newborn
Female
Child, Preschool
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid40093847,
year = {2024},
author = {Mazhar, I and Rai, MM and Ahmad, A and Nadeem, N and Javed, AS and Mumtaz, H},
title = {Recent Vaccines against Emerging and Tropical Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Discoveries (Craiova, Romania)},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {e187},
pmid = {40093847},
issn = {2359-7232},
abstract = {Emerging diseases, re-emerging diseases and tropical diseases are a slowly progressing problem globally. This may in part be the result of shifting population, growing poverty, inadequate distribution of resources, or even complacency against personal hygiene. As a result of the low income and low standards of health in developing countries, they provide the perfect breeding grounds for the pathogens and parasites that are the root cause of Neglected Tropical diseases (NTDs). In the case of emerging diseases, most are of zoonotic origin and the recent COVID-19 pandemic is a key example. However, it is not just new diseases but re-emerging diseases such as Influenza that highlight the relentless nature of these infections. Vaccines represent the ultimate safety net against these diseases by bolstering immune systems and lowering subsequent mortality and morbidity of these conditions. In fact, against diseases with high mortalities such as AIDS, Hepatitis, and Malaria, vaccine development has markedly reduced mortality and prolonged life expectancy of those afflicted with these conditions. However, this research highlights the importance of enhancing vaccine efficacy and response. The review further underscores the necessity of research, the timing of vaccine administration, effective resource management by governments, and the perception of the population. Therefore, the review offers valuable insights for the medical community and the pharmaceutical industry in improving research and management to maximize the potential of vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40093756,
year = {2025},
author = {Sanger, BD and Alarachi, A and McNeely, HE and McKinnon, MC and McCabe, RE},
title = {Brain Fog and Cognitive Dysfunction in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: An Evidence-Based Review.},
journal = {Psychology research and behavior management},
volume = {18},
number = {},
pages = {589-606},
pmid = {40093756},
issn = {1179-1578},
abstract = {The term "brain fog" has long been used both colloquially and in research literature in reference to various neurocognitive phenomenon that detract from cognitive efficiency. We define "brain fog" as the subjective experience of cognitive difficulties, in keeping with the most common colloquial and research use of the term. While a recent increase in use of this term has largely been in the context of the post-coronavirus-19 condition known as long COVID, "brain fog" has also been discussed in relation to several other conditions including mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is associated with both subjective cognitive complaints and relative deficits on cognitive testing, but the phenomenology and mechanisms contributing to "brain fog" in this population are poorly understood. PTSD psychopathology across cognitive, affective and physiological symptom domains have been tied to "brain fog". Furthermore, dissociative symptoms common in PTSD also contribute to the experience of "brain fog". Comorbid physical and mental health conditions may also increase the risk of experiencing "brain fog" among individuals with PTSD. Considerations for the assessment of "brain fog" in PTSD as part of psychodiagnostic assessment are discussed. While standard psychological intervention for PTSD is associated with a reduction in subjective cognitive deficits, other cognitive interventions may be valuable when "brain fog" persists following PTSD remission or when "brain fog" interferes with treatment. Limitations of current research on "brain fog" in PTSD include a lack of consistent definition and operationalization of "brain fog" in the literature, as well as limited tools for measurement. Future research should address these limitations, as well as further evaluate the use of cognitive remediation as an intervention for "brain fog".},
}

@article {pmid40093322,
year = {2025},
author = {Garcia Vidal, C and González, J and Lumbreras, C and Salavert, M and Castro, A and Rubio-Rodríguez, D and Rubio-Terrés, C},
title = {Effectiveness of pharmacological treatments for COVID-19 due to SARS-CoV-2: a systematic literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1469681},
pmid = {40093322},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {AIM: Since the first cases of the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, described in 2019, numerous drugs have been proposed for the treatment of the disease. However, studies have given contradictory or inconclusive results, making it difficult to determine which treatments are truly effective. The objective was to carry out a systematic review of the literature analyzing the effectiveness (mortality, hospitalization and clinical improvement) of COVID-19 treatments initially proposed and finally authorized in the European Union.

METHODS: PubMed and other electronic databases were systematically searched for meta-analyses published between January 2020 and December 2022, as well as two additional searches: one of individual clinical studies published until October 2023 and another of those drugs that were considered at the beginning and that were discarded early because the clinical results were unfavorable.

RESULTS: In the synthesis, 85 meta-analyses and 19 additional clinical studies were included (base case). All medications indicated in the treatment of COVID-19 have favorable efficacy results (mortality, hospitalization rate, clinical improvement) but these results were not confirmed in all studies carried out, being frequently contradictory (confirming or not confirming the impact of treatment on mortality). According to meta-analysis with the largest sample size, the drugs with the greatest evidence of effectiveness in reducing mortality are remdesivir (HR= 0.79; 95% CI 0.73-0.85) and tocilizumab (OR= 0.73; 95% CI 0.56-0.93). Regarding the composite of Covid-19-related hospitalization or death from any cause, the drugs with the greatest evidence of efficacy are remdesivir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and sotrovimab (although, currently the effectiveness of monoclonal antibodies against the new variants of the virus has not been demonstrated).

CONCLUSION: According to this systematic review, the treatments with the greatest evidence of reducing mortality in patients with COVID-19 are remdesivir and tocilizumab.},
}

@article {pmid40092964,
year = {2025},
author = {Prasiska, DI and Osei, KM and Chapagain, DD and Rajaguru, V and Kim, TH and Kang, SJ and Lee, SG and Jang, SY and Han, W},
title = {The Global Health Security Index and Its Role in Shaping National COVID‑19 Response Capacities: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Annals of global health},
volume = {91},
number = {1},
pages = {15},
pmid = {40092964},
issn = {2214-9996},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Global Health ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Introduction: Following the introduction of the Global Health Security Index (GHSI), the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic emerged as an unprecedented global health crisis, underscoring the need for robust health security frameworks and preparedness measures. This study conducts a scoping review to analyze the existing literature on the GHSI and assess national COVID‑19 responses across different countries. Method: A comprehensive search of electronic databases (EBSCO, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) was conducted for articles published from 2020 to 2024. Search terms included "Global Health Security Index" and terms related to COVID‑19. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‑ScR) guidelines. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), adjusted for cross‑sectional studies, was used for quality assessment. Results: A total of 3,243 studies were identified, of which 20 were finalized for data synthesis. Specific COVID‑19 parameters were analyzed to provide a comprehensive overview of each country's pandemic response capacity. Among the selected studies, 17 (85%) had a low risk of bias, while 3 (15%) had a medium risk. Countries' response capacities were categorized into five key parameters: detection, mortality, transmission, fatality, and recovery. Findings revealed significant discrepancies between GHSI scores and actual national responses, with some high‑scoring countries struggling to control the pandemic. This raises concerns about the GHSI's predictive reliability. Conclusion: The study highlights that the GHSI does not fully capture a country's capacity to respond effectively to COVID‑19. However, it remains a valuable tool for identifying gaps in pandemic preparedness. To enhance its relevance, the index should integrate a wider range of factors, including political leadership, governance, public health infrastructure, and socio‑cultural elements, which are crucial in managing public health emergencies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Global Health
*SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40092556,
year = {2025},
author = {Noë, A and Vaillancourt, E and Zawati, MH},
title = {Verbal consent in biomedical research: moving toward a future standard practice?.},
journal = {Frontiers in genetics},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1472655},
pmid = {40092556},
issn = {1664-8021},
abstract = {Properly obtaining informed consent is a core obligation for research conducted using human subjects. The traditional informed consent process involves written forms and obtaining signatures. This process remains the standard, but in various research settings, such as COVID-19 and rare disease research, verbal consent has increasingly become the norm. Although verbal consent is used in these settings, its use is still a subject of debate. This article reviews in what medical settings verbal consent is commonly seen today, various advantages and disadvantages of verbal consent, and its legislative and policy ecosystem. In doing so, this review article asserts that it is time for the debate over verbal consent to come to an end and for legislator and policymakers to acknowledge its use and to formalize the process. This will allow verbal consent to be regulated in a similar manner to written consent and will give clinician-researchers guidance on how to better implement verbal consent in their studies to addressing ongoing concerns with the consenting process as a whole.},
}

@article {pmid40092474,
year = {2025},
author = {Zyoud, S and Zyoud, SH},
title = {One Health and planetary health research landscapes in the Arab world.},
journal = {Science in One Health},
volume = {4},
number = {},
pages = {100105},
pmid = {40092474},
issn = {2949-7043},
abstract = {This review explored research trends in One Health and planetary health in the Arab world, a region confronting major sustainability challenges. These fields are crucial in combating global pressing concerns like infectious diseases, biodiversity loss, antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and air pollution. The COVID-19 pandemic stressed their significance to global health and sustainable development. This analysis assessed the Arab world's contributions to these concepts applying performance analysis and visualization mapping, revealing that One Health outperformed planetary health in terms of productivity and number of contributed countries. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have emerged as leading contributors to One Health and planetary health research in the Arab world. Meanwhile, the United States and the United Kingdom, as non-Arab nations, play a pivotal role in fostering collaborative efforts with the region. The trajectory of One Health research has indeed shown remarkable exponential growth, especially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, which is an indication of increasing relevance in the address of global health challenges. Conversely, planetary health presents an irregular growth pattern, with a strong point in the development of this area standing out in 2023. The unique set of social, cultural, governance, and agricultural attributes of the Arab region are joined by major environmental challenges that define the focus of both One Health and planetary health research efforts. Climate change, environmental contexts, and public health feature prominently in both One Health and planetary health, with One Health focusing mainly on infectious diseases and planetary health addressing the implications of climate change on human health. Advancing these concepts demands the establishment of a regional governing body to oversee an integrated One Health and planetary health strategy, foster regional research communities and alliances, secure political will and funding, and ensure the integration of these concepts into policy and academic frameworks.},
}

@article {pmid40091918,
year = {2025},
author = {Barriga Guzman, R and Tolu-Akinnawo, O and Awoyemi, T and Chima-Kalu, R and Adeleke, O and Ezekwueme, F and Obarombi, JT and Gwira-Tamattey, E and Abib, O and Odeyinka, O and Anuforo, AC},
title = {A Systematic Review of Case Reports of New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in COVID-19 Patients.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {2},
pages = {e78938},
pmid = {40091918},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic posed a significant global public health challenge, affecting millions of individuals. While some COVID-19 patients remain asymptomatic, others experience severe complications, including multiorgan failure and death. Emerging evidence indicates that COVID-19 is associated with substantial cardiovascular complications, notably an increased risk of arrhythmias, with atrial fibrillation (AF) being particularly prevalent among hospitalized patients. This review analyzes case reports of new-onset AF in COVID-19 patients, synthesizing data on patient demographics, comorbidities, clinical presentations, and outcomes. The cases reviewed indicate that affected patients were predominantly male, covered a broad age range, and frequently had underlying conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia. The main outcomes observed included a high incidence of severe complications such as ischemic stroke, acute respiratory failure, myocarditis, and heart failure. Mortality rates were notably elevated among patients with COVID-19-related AF, particularly in those requiring intensive care or mechanical ventilation. The findings emphasize the significant cardiovascular burden of COVID-19, with a focus on its association with increased AF risk. By integrating case-based evidence, this review highlights the complex interplay between COVID-19 and AF, underscoring the need for early recognition and targeted treatment strategies to mitigate cardiovascular complications and improve patient outcomes in this vulnerable population.},
}

@article {pmid40091392,
year = {2025},
author = {Saha, I and Banerjee, O and Sarkar Biswas, S and Mukherjee, S},
title = {COVID-19 beyond the lungs: Unraveling its vascular impact and cardiovascular complications-mechanisms and therapeutic implications.},
journal = {Science progress},
volume = {108},
number = {1},
pages = {368504251322069},
doi = {10.1177/00368504251322069},
pmid = {40091392},
issn = {2047-7163},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/metabolism/virology/etiology ; Endothelium, Vascular/virology/metabolism/pathology/physiopathology ; Endothelial Cells/virology/metabolism ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/etiology ; Cardiovascular System/virology/physiopathology/metabolism ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is primarily a respiratory illness but significantly affects the cardiovascular system as well. After entering the body through the respiratory tract, the virus directly and indirectly disrupts the vascular system. Vascular endothelial cells (ECs), which express ACE2 and TMPRSS2, are targets for viral invasion. However, the predominant cause of widespread vascular damage is the "cytokine storm" induced by the immune response. This leads to EC activation, inflammation, neutrophil activation, and neutrophil-platelet aggregation, causing endothelial injury. Additionally, increased expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 disrupts the balance between prothrombotic and fibrinolytic processes, while activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system adds oxidative stress to the vascular endothelium. In the heart, SARS-CoV-2 invades ECs, leading to apoptosis and pyroptosis, exacerbated by inflammation and elevated catecholamines. These factors contribute to arrhythmias, strokes, and myocardial infarction in severe cases of COVID-19. This narrative review aims to explore the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 affects the cardiovascular system and to highlight the resulting complications. It also identifies research gaps and discusses potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate the cardiovascular impacts of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Cardiovascular Diseases/metabolism/virology/etiology
Endothelium, Vascular/virology/metabolism/pathology/physiopathology
Endothelial Cells/virology/metabolism
Cytokine Release Syndrome/etiology
Cardiovascular System/virology/physiopathology/metabolism
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40090832,
year = {2025},
author = {Stephenson, KE},
title = {Next-Generation Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccines: Clinical Data and Future Directions.},
journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.idc.2025.02.003},
pmid = {40090832},
issn = {1557-9824},
abstract = {Current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have prevented millions of deaths since the beginning of the pandemic. Yet, current vaccines have critical limitations: (1) they elicit poor mucosal immune responses with reduced protection against infection and viral transmission, (2) immune responses wane quickly, and (3) new immune evasive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 variants continue to emerge. Next-generation vaccines aim to induce improved mucosal immunity via mucosal administration, and to elicit a greater duration and breadth of immune responses through new platforms like self-amplifying RNA. This review focuses on next-generation COVID-19 vaccines that have publicly available clinical data and are most likely to proceed in further development.},
}

@article {pmid40090619,
year = {2025},
author = {Apalama, ML and Begue, F and Tanaka, S and Cournot, M and Couret, D and Meilhac, O and Pokeerbux, MR},
title = {High density lipoproteins and COVID-19: preparing the next pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of lipid research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100779},
doi = {10.1016/j.jlr.2025.100779},
pmid = {40090619},
issn = {1539-7262},
abstract = {High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) are heterogeneous particles with pleiotropic functions including anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious effects. In clinical studies, lower HDL-associated cholesterol (HDL-C) concentration has been associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, severity and mortality. A reduction in the number of HDL particles, particularly small ones has been observed with alterations in their protein and lipid composition impairing their functions. These observations have supported HDL supplementation with promising results in small preliminary studies. This review summarizes available evidence on these different aspects to better understand the two-way interaction between HDLs and Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and guiding future HDL-based therapies for preparing the next pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40090554,
year = {2025},
author = {Nelson, BK and Farah, LN and Saint, SA and Song, C and Field, TS and Sossi, V and Stoessl, AJ and Wellington, C and Honer, WG and Lang, D and Silverberg, ND and Panenka, WJ},
title = {Quantitative Brain Volume Differences between COVID-19 patients and non-COVID-19 volunteers: A systematic review.},
journal = {NeuroImage},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {121146},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121146},
pmid = {40090554},
issn = {1095-9572},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The majority of COVID-19 neuroimaging literature focuses on the acute period after infection and clinically evident lesions. The chronic effects of COVID-19 on brain structure are less well defined. There are inconsistencies in the existing structural neuroimaging studies regarding differences in brain volumes after COVID-19 infection. It was thus our aim to systematically evaluate the structural neuroimaging literature focusing on volumetric differences between patients with COVID-19, and volunteers without COVID-19, at greater than 6 weeks post-infection.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched in May 2023 with an updated search in September 2024, for studies with a quantitative comparison of brain volumes between COVID-19 patients and non-COVID-19 volunteers with MRI acquired more than 6-weeks after COVID-19. Exclusion criteria included COVID-19 patients selected for the presence of specific symptoms, case reports and case studies, and post-mortem studies. Forwards and backwards citation chasing were performed.

RESULTS: Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria. The majority of studies reported smaller grey matter volumes amongst COVID-19 patients compared to healthy volunteers. However, there were inconsistent findings, with 3 studies reporting larger grey matter volumes in the COVID-19 groups. Additionally, studies with COVID-19 cohorts with more severe presentations, characterized by admission to the hospital or the ICU, were more likely to report smaller grey matter volumes compared to healthy volunteers, than studies that were focused on patients who recovered at home.

CONCLUSION: A systematic review of the literature indicates that COVID-19 illness severity may explain some of the heterogeneity in brain volume differences between COVID-19 patients and healthy volunteers. More longitudinal follow-up studies are needed to assess the longitudinal course of COVID-19's effects on brain volumes.},
}

@article {pmid40089556,
year = {2025},
author = {Patni, B and Bhattacharyya, M and Pokhriyal, A and Pandey, D},
title = {Remedying SARS-CoV-2 through nature: a review highlighting the potentiality of herbs, trees, mushrooms, and endophytic microorganisms in controlling Coronavirus.},
journal = {Planta},
volume = {261},
number = {4},
pages = {89},
pmid = {40089556},
issn = {1432-2048},
mesh = {*Endophytes/physiology ; *Plants, Medicinal ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology ; *Agaricales ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/physiology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Trees/microbiology ; COVID-19/virology ; Secondary Metabolism ; },
abstract = {Medicinal plants, mushrooms, and endophytes offer a rich source of secondary metabolites (SMs), including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids, with proven antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2. Plant-associated microorganisms that colonize in living tissues of different parts of a plant possess the ability to produce SMs of immense therapeutic value and this biological interaction between plants and microbes can be exploited to develop antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2. The unprecedented lethality of the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the recent global pandemic has prompted extensive research into new treatment options and preventive strategies for COVID-19. Phytochemicals, particularly those derived from medicinal plants, microbes, and mushrooms, show promising results in combating the virus when combined with synthetic components. These natural compounds include terpenes, phenolics, flavonoids, and alkaloids that possess antiviral properties. Medicinal plants and their endophytic microbes, and mushrooms, offer a rich source of secondary metabolites (SMs) with potential antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2. Given the urgency of addressing the swift spread of the new coronavirus strain, exploring and understanding these SMs could lead to the development of innovative and potent antiviral drugs. This review provides a comprehensive overview of plant-, microbial- and mushroom-derived SMs, their classification, and their applications in treating diseases caused by the coronavirus family, offering insights into the potential future production of natural medicines.},
}

*Endophytes/physiology
*Plants, Medicinal
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology
*Agaricales
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/physiology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Trees/microbiology
COVID-19/virology
Secondary Metabolism

@article {pmid40089444,
year = {2025},
author = {Alrubayyi, A and Huang, H and Gaiha, GD},
title = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Immunology and Coronavirus Disease 2019 Clinical Outcomes.},
journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.idc.2025.02.001},
pmid = {40089444},
issn = {1557-9824},
abstract = {The humoral and cellular immune response are the key players in preventing viral infection and limiting disease severity, particular in the context of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and coronavirus disease 2019. In this review, we discuss how immune responses generated by prior infection and vaccination influence the outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We aim to provide an overview of the role of humoral and cellular immunity, with a particular focus on CD8[+] T cell responses, to delineate how different immune compartments contribute to the control of infection and modulation of disease outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40089443,
year = {2025},
author = {Shumaker, AH and Bhimraj, A},
title = {Pharmacologic Treatment and Management of Coronavirus Disease 2019.},
journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.idc.2025.02.004},
pmid = {40089443},
issn = {1557-9824},
abstract = {Widespread vaccination, hybrid immunity, and reduced pathogenicity with circulating Omicron variants have decreased the rate of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes in the general population. Certain patients with COVID-19 remain at high risk for severe outcomes. Clinicians must individualize treatments based on expected benefits and relative harms for patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Guideline-directed therapy for severe and critical COVID-19 has remained static over the last couple of years. Data on immunomodulatory agents have improved our understanding of the management of severe and critical COVID-19, yet uncertainty remains on the role and timing of these agents in the Omicron era.},
}

@article {pmid40089428,
year = {2025},
author = {Jois, R and Bajaj, R},
title = {Infection associated Vasculitides.},
journal = {Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102056},
doi = {10.1016/j.berh.2025.102056},
pmid = {40089428},
issn = {1532-1770},
abstract = {Infections can mimic Primary Systemic Vasculitis. Many clinical features and investigations maybe very similar between the two conditions. It is very important for the clinician to be aware of the various infections which mimic vasculitis, since inadvertent immunosuppression in these patients can be fatal. Infections can mimic small, medium or large vessel vasculitis. Infections can produce autoantibodies such as Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody through molecular mimicry and could confound clinical judgement. In addition to the many infections causing vasculitis, more recently COVID-19 associated vasculitis has been described. The exact pathogenesis of infection associated vasculitis is not clear although direct spread, immune complex deposition and T/B cell activation are proposed. Infection as an etiological agent for primary systemic vasculitis has long been debated but definite evidence for the same is lacking. Many drugs used in daily clinical practice can rarely cause vasculitis. More recently Immune-check point inhibitors-induced vasculitis has been described.},
}

@article {pmid40088579,
year = {2025},
author = {Brown, GW and von Agris, J and Bell, D and Sturmberg, J and Ridde, V and Makali, SL and Balaluka, GB and Bridge, G and Paul, E},
title = {Perspective: An overemphasis on vaccines for Mpox skewes important lessons from COVID-19 and the need for public health approaches.},
journal = {Journal of infection and public health},
volume = {18},
number = {6},
pages = {102749},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2025.102749},
pmid = {40088579},
issn = {1876-035X},
abstract = {The emergency declarations for Mpox triggered a flurry of appeals for 'vaccine equity' and the mass production of additional vaccine doses, citing a need to 'learn lessons' from COVID-19. We question whether the right lessons have been learned in terms of a supposed need to rollout vaccines quickly and widely, raising concerns about the consequences of an overreliance on expert-driven mass vaccination strategies over more diversified, context-specific and systemic public health strategies. Compared to COVID-19, Mpox has no such epidemic potential because it requires close contact for transmission. Moreover, Congolese populations face far more pressing health burdens. Thus, the health needs of the population risk being lost within a response focused on global procurement of costly health technologies whatever the context in which the outbreak is occurring. Alternatively, locally owned prioritisation and public health and sanitation approaches are key, which should be proportionate to relative disease burdens, and which utilise a diversity of strategies that are cost-effective and with wider public health benefits.},
}

@article {pmid40088416,
year = {2025},
author = {Riba, EB},
title = {Towards Defining the Faculty Role in Supporting Student Mental Health.},
journal = {Current psychiatry reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40088416},
issn = {1535-1645},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review of the recent literature highlights the need to better define the role of faculty in supporting student mental health in higher education institutions in the United States.

RECENT FINDINGS: The last several decades, and especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, has seen an emphasis on college student mental health. While students are seeking knowledge, connectedness, and career options, faculty are focused on teaching, mentorship but also on how to best support student mental health. With this rise of concentration on mental health in higher education, a major question has arisen-what is the role of faculty in supporting student mental health? The literature is vast in terms of college student mental health and students' stressors and concerns. More and more literature is available regarding interventions used to identify, manage and treat students, and even studies on staff and faculty and their own mental health. Much of the data from faculty has recently been about burnout and their own mental health. There is, however, much less research and literature on either guidelines or guideposts regarding the specific roles that faculty have towards supporting student mental health. This brief paper highlights the potential opportunities and barriers and suggests model strategies for higher education leaders, administrators and faculty to better define the faculty role in supporting student mental health.},
}

@article {pmid40085849,
year = {2025},
author = {Okuhara, T and Terada, M and Okada, H and Yokota, R and Kiuchi, T},
title = {Experiences of Public Health Professionals Regarding Crisis Communication During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies.},
journal = {JMIR infodemiology},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {e66524},
doi = {10.2196/66524},
pmid = {40085849},
issn = {2564-1891},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Public Health ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; Qualitative Research ; Pandemics ; Communication ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic emerged in the digital age and has been called the first "data-driven pandemic" in human history. The global response demonstrated that many countries had failed to effectively prepare for such an event. Learning through experience in a crisis is one way to improve the crisis management process. As the world has returned to normal after the pandemic, questions about crisis management have been raised in several countries and require careful consideration.

OBJECTIVE: This review aimed to collect and organize public health professionals' experiences in crisis communication to the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, and Communication Abstracts in February 2024 to locate English-language articles that qualitatively investigated the difficulties and needs experienced by health professionals in their communication activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: This review included 17 studies. Our analysis identified 7 themes and 20 subthemes. The 7 themes were difficulties in pandemic communication, difficulties caused by the "infodemic," difficulties in partnerships within or outside of public health, difficulties in community engagement, difficulties in effective communication, burnout among communicators, and the need to train communication specialists and establish a permanent organization specializing in communication.

CONCLUSIONS: This review identified the gaps between existing crisis communication guidelines and real-world crisis communication in the digital environment and clarified the difficulties and needs that arose from these gaps. Crisis communication strategies and guidelines should be updated with reference to the themes revealed in this review to effectively respond to subsequent public health crises.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024528975; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=528975.

RR2-10.2196/58040.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Public Health
*Health Personnel/psychology
Qualitative Research
Pandemics
Communication
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40085363,
year = {2025},
author = {Kring, B and de Faria, L and Ackerman, A and Menon, M and Peluso, F and , },
title = {The Fallout of the COVID-19 Pandemic on College Students.},
journal = {Current psychiatry reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40085363},
issn = {1535-1645},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: We examine the deleterious effects on emotional development and mental health of college students wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the era of climate change, political polarization, and global pandemics, some students are likely exposed to public disasters either on campus or at home at any given time.

RECENT FINDINGS: The worsening incidence and severity of mental health symptoms foreshadowed a youth mental health crisis of unanticipated proportions. Post disaster, the treatment of physical illness typically takes precedence to the exclusion of preventive mental health measures. Even though the mental health effects of mass trauma are more pervasive and last longer than physical symptoms, mental health experts did not have a prominent place at the table of the COVID-19 response teams beyond their traditional role in the care of individual students. We conclude with a review of best practices for psychological first aid, and highlight the need for disaster response training for psychiatrists.},
}

@article {pmid40084919,
year = {2025},
author = {Baalbaki, N and Slob, EMA and Kazer, SW and I Abdel-Aziz, M and Bogaard, HJ and Golebski, K and Maitland-van der Zee, AH},
title = {The Omics Landscape of Long COVID-A Comprehensive Systematic Review to Advance Biomarker, Target and Drug Discovery.},
journal = {Allergy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/all.16526},
pmid = {40084919},
issn = {1398-9995},
support = {//Health~Holland/ ; },
abstract = {An estimated 10% of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survivors suffer from persisting symptoms referred to as long COVID (LC), a condition for which approved treatment options are still lacking. This systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42024499281) aimed to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying LC and potential treatable traits across symptom-based phenotypes. We included studies with primary data, written in English, focusing on omics analyses of human samples from LC patients with persistent symptoms of at least 3 months. Our search in PubMed and Embase, conducted on January 8, 2024, identified 642 studies, of which 29 met the inclusion criteria after full-text assessment. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tool. The synthesis of omics data, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics, revealed common findings associated with fatigue, cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and gastrointestinal phenotypes. Key findings included mitochondrial dysfunction, dysregulated microRNAs associated with pulmonary dysfunction, tissue impairment, blood-brain barrier disruption, coagulopathy, vascular dysfunction, microbiome disturbances, microbial-derived metabolite production and persistent inflammation. Limitations include cross-study heterogeneity and variability in sampling methods. Our review emphasizes the complexity of LC and the need for further longitudinal omics-integrated studies to advance the development of biomarkers and targeted treatments.},
}

@article {pmid40084420,
year = {2025},
author = {Vukovikj, M and Melidou, A and Nannapaneni, P and Normark, T and Kraus, A and Broberg, EK},
title = {Impact of SARS-CoV-2 variant mutations on susceptibility to monoclonal antibodies and antiviral drugs: a non-systematic review, April 2022 to October 2024.},
journal = {Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin},
volume = {30},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2025.30.10.2400252},
pmid = {40084420},
issn = {1560-7917},
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology ; Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; *Mutation ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; },
abstract = {BackgroundMonoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and antiviral drugs have emerged as additional tools for treatment of COVID-19.AimWe aimed to review data on susceptibility of 14 SARS-CoV-2 variants to mAbs and antiviral drugs authorised in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries.MethodsWe constructed a literature review compiling 298 publications from four databases: PubMed, Science Direct, LitCovid and BioRxiv/MedRxiv preprint servers. We included publications on nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, remdesivir and tixagevimab and cilgavimab, regdanvimab, casirivimab and imdevimab, and sotrovimab approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) by 1 October 2024.ResultsThe mutations identified in the open reading frame (ORF)1ab, specifically nsp5:H172Y, nsp5:H172Y and Q189E, nsp5:L50F and E166V and nsp5:L50F, E166A and L167V, led to a decrease in susceptibility to nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, ranging from moderate (25-99) to high reductions (> 100). Casirivimab and imdevimab exhibited highly reduced neutralisation capacity across all Omicron sub-lineages. Sub-lineages BA.1, BA.2 and BA.5 had decreased susceptibility to regdanvimab, while sotrovimab showed decreased efficacy for BA.2, BA.4, BQ.1.1 and BA.2.86. Tixagevimab and cilgavimab exhibited highly reduced neutralisation activity against BQ.1, BQ.1.1, XBB, XBB.1.5 and BA.2.86 sub-lineages.ConclusionsThe emergence of new variants, some with altered antigenic characteristics, may lead to resistance against mAbs and/or antiviral drugs and evasion of immunity induced naturally or by vaccination. This summary of mutations, combination of mutations and SARS-CoV-2 variants linked to reduced susceptibility to mAbs and antiviral drugs, should aid the selection of appropriate treatment strategies and/or phasing out therapies that have lost their effectiveness.},
}

*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology
Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
*Mutation
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics
Antibodies, Viral/blood

@article {pmid40084266,
year = {2025},
author = {Eisinger, GJ and Hosler, Q and Crouser, ED and Herman, DD},
title = {Diagnostic Performance of Monocyte Distribution Width for the Detection of Sepsis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians open},
volume = {6},
number = {2},
pages = {100073},
pmid = {40084266},
issn = {2688-1152},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To aggregate literature on the diagnostic performance of monocyte distribution width (MDW) for sepsis detection among adults in the emergency department and inpatient settings.

METHODS: We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane databases for studies evaluating MDW for sepsis diagnosis in adults in the hospital setting through October 19, 2024. Two authors (G.E. and Q.H.) independently performed eligibility assessment, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. We evaluated performance for sepsis-2 and sepsis-3 separately and applied separate diagnostic thresholds depending on the anticoagulant used in blood collection. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. We performed multiple sensitivity analyses to evaluate the stability of our findings.

RESULTS: Twenty-five observational studies comprising 39,041 patients were included. The area under the summary receiver operating curve (AUC) was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.78-0.85) for both sepsis-2 and sepsis-3. Sensitivity and specificity were 0.79 (95% CI, 0.74-0.83) and 0.7 (95% CI, 0.61-0.78) for sepsis-2 and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.78-0.88) and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.55-0.71) for sepsis-3. The threshold-independent weighted-average AUC was 0.76 (SD, 0.1) for sepsis-2 and 0.77 (SD, 0.07) for sepsis-3. The aggregate negative predictive value was 94% for sepsis-2 and 96% for sepsis-3. We observed similar performance across all sensitivity analyses. We assessed the overall quality of evidence to be low.

CONCLUSIONS: MDW performs similarly to other biomarkers such as procalcitonin for the diagnosis of sepsis, with the unique advantage of rapid availability as part of routine testing.},
}

@article {pmid40084099,
year = {2025},
author = {Bibas, M and Sarosiek, S and Castillo, JJ},
title = {Waldenström Macroglobulinemia - A State-of-the-Art Review: Part 2- Focus on Therapy.},
journal = {Mediterranean journal of hematology and infectious diseases},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {e2025015},
pmid = {40084099},
issn = {2035-3006},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The diagnosis and treatment of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) are the subjects of this two-part review, which aims to provide current and thorough knowledge of these topics. The first portion of the study, previously published, investigated the epidemiology, etiology, clinicopathological aspects, differential diagnosis, prognostic factors, and impact on WM-specific groups. Specifically, this second section examines both the standard consolidated method and the new therapeutic strategy to handle the complex topic of the treatment of WM.

KEY POINTS: WM has no cure, but therapies can improve survival. Treatment for WM/LPL patients should be initiated when they exhibit symptoms, and the IgM level should not determine WM treatment.Current guidelines suggest various initial personalized therapy treatments, typically chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) or BTK inhibitors (BTKi).Patients with WM can be put into three groups based on their MYD88 and CXCR4 mutational status: those with MYD88 mutations but no CXCR4 mutations (MYD88MUT/CXCR4WT), those with both MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations (MYD88MUT/CXCR4MUT) and those who do not have both MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations (MYD88WT/CXCR4WT).The objective of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and mitigate the risk of organ impairment.The timing of response evaluations, including BM, should be established on a case-by-case basis, informed by clinical and laboratory assessments.Patients with relapsed/refractory WM following chemotherapy and covalent Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors may choose non-covalent Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors, novel anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, BCL-2 inhibitors, or more intensive chemotherapy regimens.Patients who are younger and healthier and have not responded to both CIT and BTKi may be good candidates for an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT).Second-generation anti-CD19 CAR T cells exhibit anti-WM activity in both in vitro and in vivo settings.From 2.4% to 11% of patients with WM undergo histological transformation, predominantly to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The median duration between diagnosis and transformation is 4.6 years.WM patients have a higher risk of secondary cancers.HSV and HZV prophylaxis may be beneficial for patients needing extensive treatment. Screening for Hepatitis B is necessary. Pneumocystis jiroveci prophylaxis is highly recommended. SARS-CoV- 2 and seasonal flu vaccines should be available to all WM patients.},
}

@article {pmid39921082,
year = {2025},
author = {Zampieri, F and Michieletto, F and Zanatta, A},
title = {Rise and fall of the myth of the good pathogen in evolutionary biology and medicine.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {107836},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2025.107836},
pmid = {39921082},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; Virulence ; *Biological Evolution ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Communicable Diseases/transmission ; },
abstract = {The history of the conception of evolution of virulence is well known. However, in this period following the COVID-19 pandemic, it may be useful to recap such a current topic. In public debate, it has often been heard that COVID-19 was destined to evolve into a less virulent form because it would be in the virus's interest to coexist with the human population. This concept can be defined as the "Myth of the Good Pathogen" and originated from Smith's "law of declining virulence." The successes achieved thanks to vaccinations and antibiotics led the medical community, between the 1940s and the 1970s, to argue that the battle against infectious diseases had been won. However, the AIDS pandemic brought back down to earth the scientific community in their speculations about plagues. Since the 1970s, biologists have advanced the "virulence transmission trade-offs theory," a new model according to which intermediate virulence maximizes pathogenicity as a result of a trade-off between virulence and transmission. The introduction of trade-off models represented a crucial change that replaced the binary logic according to which natural selection shaped adaptations, whereas maladaptation escaped selection. This change was fundamental for the introduction of a new perspective in medicine, namely, Evolutionary Medicine, which might be an essential tool not only for understanding the dynamics of epidemics but also for preventing and curing infectious diseases.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
Virulence
*Biological Evolution
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Pandemics/prevention & control
Communicable Diseases/transmission

@article {pmid39733916,
year = {2025},
author = {Petersen, E and Hvid, U and Tomori, O and Pedersen, AG and Wallinga, J and Pebody, R and Cenciarelli, O and Aavitsland, P and Van Laeken, D and Andreasen, V and Schneider, U and Simonsen, JK and Goedknegt, MJF and Johannesen, CK and Lundgren, JD and Koch, A and Søborg, B and Ekström, AM and Nohynek, H and Aarestrup, FM and Krause, TG and Simonsen, L},
title = {Possible scenarios for the spread of mpox outside the endemic focus in Africa.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {107373},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107373},
pmid = {39733916},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; Africa/epidemiology ; Animals ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; Mpox, Monkeypox/epidemiology/transmission/virology ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Zoonoses/epidemiology/transmission ; Male ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {The recent expansion of mpox in Africa is characterized by a dramatic increase in zoonotic transmission (clade Ia) and the emergence of a new clade Ib that is transmitted from human to human by close contact. Clade Ia does not pose a threat in areas without zoonotic reservoirs. But clade Ib may spread widely, as did clade IIb which has spread globally since 2022 among men who have sex with men. It is not clear whether controlling clade Ib will be more difficult than clade IIb. The population at risk potentially counts 100 million but only a million vaccine doses are expected in the next year. Surveillance is needed with exhaustive case detection, polymerase chain reaction confirmation, clade determination, and about severe illness. Such data is needed to identify routes of transmission and core transmitters, such as sex workers. Health care workers are vaccinated to ensure their protection, but this will not curb mpox transmission. With the recent inequitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in mind, it is a global responsibility to ensure that low-income nations in the mpox epicenter have meaningful access to vaccines. Vaccination serves not only to reduce mortality in children but limit the risk of future mpox variants emerging that may spread in human populations globally.},
}

Humans
Africa/epidemiology
Animals
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
Mpox, Monkeypox/epidemiology/transmission/virology
COVID-19 Vaccines
Zoonoses/epidemiology/transmission
Male
Vaccination

@article {pmid39709116,
year = {2025},
author = {Sibomana, O and Hakayuwa, CM and Munyantore, J},
title = {Marburg virus reaches Rwanda: how close are we to a vaccine solution?.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {107371},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107371},
pmid = {39709116},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Rwanda/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Marburg Virus Disease/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; *Marburgvirus/immunology ; Animals ; *Viral Vaccines ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent and often fatal disease caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the Filoviridae family, closely related to the Ebola virus. Historically, outbreaks have been sporadic but lethal across various African countries, with high case fatality rates (CFRs). In 2023, significant outbreaks occurred in Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea, with CFRs of 62.5% and 75%, respectively. In 2024, Rwanda faced its first outbreak, starting on September 27, 2024. By November 8, 2024, Rwanda had conducted 7,408 tests, confirming 66 cases, 15 of which were fatal, and 51 recoveries. Although no approved vaccine currently exists for MVD, global health authorities are prioritizing the development of effective vaccines. Drawing on insights from the rapid COVID-19 vaccine development, several promising candidates are under exploration, with the cAd3-MARV showing notable potential. This paper examines the current MVD outbreak in Rwanda and the progress toward developing a long-term vaccine solution.},
}

Rwanda/epidemiology
Humans
*Marburg Virus Disease/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
*Marburgvirus/immunology
Animals
*Viral Vaccines
Vaccine Development

@article {pmid39671397,
year = {2025},
author = {Wen, B and Zhang, G and Zhan, C and Chen, C and Yi, H},
title = {The 2024 revision of the Declaration of Helsinki: a modern ethical framework for medical research.},
journal = {Postgraduate medical journal},
volume = {101},
number = {1194},
pages = {371-382},
doi = {10.1093/postmj/qgae181},
pmid = {39671397},
issn = {1469-0756},
support = {2022YFC2407404//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 7232134//Beijing Natural Science Foundation/ ; 2021-1-I2M-012//CAMS Initiative for Innovative Medicine/ ; 2022-PUMCH-C-043//National High-Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding/ ; LC2021L01//Beijing Hope Run Special Fund of Cancer Foundation of China/ ; Z211100002921058//Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission/ ; LC2021D01//Administrative Research Fund, CHCAMS/ ; },
mesh = {*Helsinki Declaration ; Humans ; *Biomedical Research/ethics ; COVID-19 ; Ethics, Research ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The Declaration of Helsinki, established in 1964, remains a foundational document in medical research ethics. This review examines the 2024 revision, endorsed by the 75th World Medical Association (WMA) Assembly, highlighting its impact on modern clinical research. Major updates include the shift from "subjects" to "participants," promoting autonomy and active involvement, and the introduction of dual ethical review requirements for cross-border studies to strengthen accountability. New guidelines for data privacy address AI-related ethical concerns, while enhanced community engagement fosters transparency and shared decision-making. Additionally, standards for environmental sustainability encourage research practices that minimize ecological impacts. In response to global health crises such as COVID-19, the revised Declaration sets forth ethical protections to balance participant safety with research urgency during emergencies. Despite these advances, areas for improvement remain, especially in AI ethics, emergency research protocols, and the extension the Declaration's scope to include forensic and specimen research. The 2024 revision thus strengthens the Declaration's role as an adaptive, relevant framework for safeguarding participant rights and research integrity in a changing landscape.},
}

*Helsinki Declaration
Humans
*Biomedical Research/ethics
COVID-19
Ethics, Research
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39651728,
year = {2025},
author = {Francavilla, F and Intranuovo, F and La Spada, G and Lacivita, E and Catto, M and Graps, EA and Altomare, CD},
title = {Inflammaging and Immunosenescence in the Post-COVID Era: Small Molecules, Big Challenges.},
journal = {ChemMedChem},
volume = {20},
number = {6},
pages = {e202400672},
doi = {10.1002/cmdc.202400672},
pmid = {39651728},
issn = {1860-7187},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunosenescence/drug effects ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Inflammation/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/immunology ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use/chemistry ; Small Molecule Libraries/chemistry/pharmacology ; Aging/drug effects/immunology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Aging naturally involves a decline in biological functions, often triggering a disequilibrium of physiological processes. A common outcome is the altered response exerted by the immune system to counteract infections, known as immunosenescence, which has been recognized as a primary cause, among others, of the so-called long-COVID syndrome. Moreover, the uncontrolled immunoreaction leads to a state of subacute, chronic inflammatory state known as inflammaging, responsible in turn for the chronicization of concomitant pathologies in a self-sustaining process. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant drugs are the current choice for the therapy of inflammaging in post-COVID complications, with contrasting results. The increasing knowledge of the biochemical pathways of inflammaging led to disclose new small molecules-based therapies directed toward different biological targets involved in inflammation, immunological response, and oxidative stress. Herein, paying particular attention to recent clinical data and preclinical literature, we focus on the role of endocannabinoid system in inflammaging, and the promising therapeutic option represented by the CB2R agonists, the role of novel ligands of the formyl peptide receptor 2 and ultimately the potential of newly discovered monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors with neuroprotective activity in the treatment of immunosenescence.},
}

Humans
*Immunosenescence/drug effects
*COVID-19/immunology
*Inflammation/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/immunology
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use/chemistry
Small Molecule Libraries/chemistry/pharmacology
Aging/drug effects/immunology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid38261163,
year = {2025},
author = {Stanley, MJ and Logan, RI},
title = {Moral Resilience and Race, Ethnicity, and Culture Within Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the USA: a Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {719-731},
pmid = {38261163},
issn = {2196-8837},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/ethnology ; *Resilience, Psychological ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; United States ; *Ethnicity/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Morals ; Racial Groups/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has and continues to impact the world affecting all aspects of life. Healthcare workers have been hit especially hard and, in many cases, experience negative impacts not only on their physical health but also on their mental and emotional well-being. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has not affected populations equally and this is true in the USA, including healthcare workers. However, these workers have also persevered, drawing on moral resilience to push through challenging situations throughout this pandemic. In this scoping review, we analyzed studies to assess the role of race, ethnicity, and/or culture on the moral resilience of healthcare workers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim was to understand the research that has assessed these potential connections and determine best practices for building moral resilience in the face of this global catastrophe. Fourteen articles met inclusion criteria and were analyzed in this review. Following a thematic analysis, several themes emerged including (1) moral resilience and the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) race, ethnicity, and culture among healthcare workers; and (3) building moral resilience. In sum, the findings from the literature indicate a paucity of studies that analyze the role played by race, ethnicity, and/or culture in connection to moral resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/ethnology
*Resilience, Psychological
*Health Personnel/psychology
United States
*Ethnicity/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Morals
Racial Groups/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics

@article {pmid40083991,
year = {2025},
author = {Herdiana, Y},
title = {Nanoparticles of natural product-derived medicines: Beyond the pandemic.},
journal = {Heliyon},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {e42739},
pmid = {40083991},
issn = {2405-8440},
abstract = {This review explores the synergistic potential of natural products and nanotechnology for viral infections, highlighting key antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties to combat pandemics caused by highly infectious viruses. These pandemics often result in severe public health crises, particularly affecting vulnerable populations due to respiratory complications and increased mortality rates. A cytokine storm is initiated when an overload of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines is released, leading to a systemic inflammatory response. Viral mutations and the limited availability of effective drugs, vaccines, and therapies contribute to the continuous transmission of the virus. The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has sparked renewed interest in natural product-derived antivirals. The efficacy of traditional medicines against pandemic viral infections is examined. Their antiviral, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties are highlighted. This review discusses how nanotechnology enhances the efficacy of herbal medicines in combating viral infections.},
}

@article {pmid40083769,
year = {2025},
author = {Guimarães de Araujo Faria, M and da Silva Freitas Venâncio, CG and Carvalho Pacheco, F and Ferreira Koopmans, F and Valadão Vasconcelos Alves, L and Maia Valente, P},
title = {Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health of university teachers and students: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1428707},
pmid = {40083769},
issn = {1664-1078},
}

@article {pmid40083673,
year = {2025},
author = {Kalantari, Y and Mirahmadi, SMS and Alilou, S and Sadeghi, S and Aryanian, Z and Jafarzadeh, A and Goodarzi, A},
title = {A Systematic Review of Vascular Injuries: A Review of Petechiae, Purpura, and Ecchymosis in Critical Situations Following COVID-19 Vaccination.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {8},
number = {3},
pages = {e70503},
pmid = {40083673},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Vascular injuries characterized by petechiae, purpura, and ecchymosis have been reported as potential adverse effects following COVID-19 vaccination. This study aims to identify the characteristics of patients experiencing vascular injuries postvaccination and to outline key clinical considerations.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed/MEDLINE databases was performed for English-language publications up to July 2024. Eligible studies included reports of vascular injuries following COVID-19 vaccination.

RESULTS: Of the 1064 articles retrieved, 35 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority of cases presented symptoms after receiving the first doses of Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Janssen vaccines. Diagnosed conditions included thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), vasculitis, and acquired hemophilia A. None of the patients tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 at the time of diagnosis. The most commonly affected sites were the lower extremities, with petechiae, purpura, and ecchymosis being the predominant manifestations.

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest a possible but unconfirmed association between COVID-19 vaccination and the development of vascular injuries, including petechiae, purpura, and ecchymosis. These symptoms may serve as early indicators of critical conditions requiring urgent medical intervention. Further research and postvaccination monitoring are necessary to establish causality and assess potential risk factors.},
}

@article {pmid40083441,
year = {2025},
author = {Chidebe, RCW and Osayi, A and Torode, JS},
title = {The Global Fund, Cervical Cancer, and HPV infections: what can low- and middle-income countries do to accelerate progress by 2030?.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {81},
number = {},
pages = {103127},
pmid = {40083441},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The footprint of cervical cancer mirrors the impact of global inequity and inequality on the right to health for girls and women. While today, cervical cancer is a relatively rare cause of death in Europe, North America, and Australia, almost 94% of deaths in 2022 occurred in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Governments adopted the WHO global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. Still, the stark reality is that many countries may not reach the 90:70:90 targets by 2030 without political commitment and a sense of urgency. We call for enhanced advocacy for the right to prevention services and political actions to mobilise global funding, local philanthropic support, and innovative financing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, an African coalition raised over $20 million to mitigate the impact of the pandemic. Positive lessons from this response should be replicated to save millions of women and girls at risk of cervical cancer in LMICs. There is a need for a global fund for cancer; regional blocs like the African Union need to recognise the disproportionate burden and establish continental funding mechanisms to enable high-burden countries to make crucial upfront health systems investments that will put their countries on the pathway to cervical cancer elimination.

FUNDING: This study was not funded.},
}

@article {pmid40083357,
year = {2025},
author = {Oringanje, CM and Oparah, SK and Oringanje, C and Meremikwu, CM and Olatunji, D and Uzuta, AA and Ochu, CL},
title = {Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation for surface cleaning of COVID-19 in healthcare settings: A review.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {572},
pmid = {40083357},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of additional infection prevention and control (IPC) measures. In healthcare settings, the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections remains high for patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) has been explored as a potential alternative for surface disinfection within healthcare facilities and hospitals.

AIM: This study evaluates the effectiveness of UVGI as a surface cleaning method for COVID-19.

SETTING: Healthcare settings.

METHOD: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Databases searched from 01 January 2020 to 31 August 2022, included Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), with no language restrictions. Two independent researchers screened and extracted data. Proportions and relative risk were calculated, and the evidence quality was assessed using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS: Three studies were included, all focusing on terminal disinfection of patient rooms. None directly assessed the effect of UVGI on hospital-acquired SARS-CoV-2 infections. One study found UVGI reduced viral contamination post-regular cleaning in healthcare settings (RR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.02-3.31). Other studies reported complete viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) clearance after 15 min of irradiation at 254 nm and 15 s at 222 nm, respectively.

CONCLUSION: The evidence on UVGI reducing SARS-CoV-2 contamination on surfaces is of very low certainty.

CONTRIBUTION: The very low certainty prevents a definitive conclusion on its effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 in healthcare settings. Further research is needed to strengthen the evidence base.},
}

@article {pmid40083356,
year = {2025},
author = {Nwankwo, ONO and Meremikwu, AN and Okebe, EC and Otonkue, MA and Okebalama, HN and Dunn, K and Hamilton-Hurwitz, H and Baller, A},
title = {Factors shaping cleaning and disinfection practices during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative evidence synthesis.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {624},
pmid = {40083356},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cleaning and disinfection of the physical environment is important as it can reduce the transmission of microorganisms. However, adherence to cleaning and disinfection protocols varies due to factors such as personal factors and external influences like resource availability, workload, and institutional support.

AIM: To synthesise factors influencing the uptake of cleaning and disinfection interventions in healthcare and community setting in the context of COVID-19.

SETTING: These findings as seen in any country irrespective of setting.

METHOD: Medline and World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 Research databases were searched from January 2020 to September 2022. The search identified 1618 studies, and analysis was performed using the thematic synthesis approach. The confidence in each review finding was ascertained using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations-Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) approach.

RESULTS: Six analytical themes were identified. Cleaning and disinfection were seen as a cornerstone of patient care. Individual judgement, historic standards, norms and practices, ability to implement rapid practice guideline change and resource considerations were seen to influence the uptake of cleaning.

CONCLUSION: There is a need for further qualitative studies in these areas, especially looking at the different interventions from an equity lens. Resource needs and availability were key factors influencing the uptake of cleaning and disinfection in both communities and health facilities.

CONTRIBUTION: This review shows important considerations for implementing infection prevention and control (IPC) interventions in the context of COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40083355,
year = {2025},
author = {Okebe, J and Ewa, A and Aquaisua, E and Ikpi, OA and Olughu, E and Chukwuemelie, EC and Oringanje, C and Okwor, T and Meremikwu, M},
title = {Disinfection methods for preventing COVID-19 infections in healthcare settings: A rapid review.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {588},
pmid = {40083355},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Disinfectant sprays and wipes reduce the risk of infection from contaminated surfaces and materials in healthcare facilities. To support guideline updates, evidence on surface disinfection against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection are needed.

AIM: This study aims to compare the effect of disinfection by spraying or wiping on the risk of human infections in healthcare facilities providing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) services.

SETTING: Healthcare settings providing care for patients with COVID-19 or where exposure risk to COVID-19 is high.

METHOD: We searched the Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and Cochrane Database of systematic review; PubMed, EMBASE and EPOC databases from 01 January 2020 to 31 August 2022. Results were screened for eligibility, the risk of bias in included studies assessed, and the certainty of evidence defined using GRADE[®].

RESULTS: Three observational studies were included. Two studies reporting proportion of surfaces with residual contamination, showed contrasting results with spraying more effective (0%, [n = 0/39] vs. 25.6% [n = 23/90]) in one study but less effective (25.0% [n = 12/48] vs. 48.2% [n = 13/27]) in the other. The third study reported higher reductions from wiping (88.0%) compared to spraying (15.1%). The risk of bias ranged from moderate to serious and the certainty of the evidence was very low. No study reported a direct effect on the risk of infection in humans.

CONCLUSION: Both spraying and wiping methods may protect against SARS-CoV-2 infections indirectly by reducing residual surface contamination.

CONTRIBUTION: The use of both methods of disinfection in cleaning protocols indirectly reduces residual surface contamination.},
}

@article {pmid40083354,
year = {2025},
author = {Effa, EE and Ita, O and Mwankon, J and Siyanbade, F and Iwomi, F and Ochodo, E and Villanueva, G and Meremikwu, MM},
title = {Post-exposure testing at healthcare facilities with SARS-CoV-2 transmission: A rapid review.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {623},
pmid = {40083354},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-exposure severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) testing following health facility outbreaks may control the spread of infection.

AIM: This study aimed to assess the impact of testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection on health outcomes during healthcare facility outbreaks.

SETTING: This review included studies conducted at skilled nursing facilities, a cancer centre, and a geriatric psychiatric facility.

METHODS: We followed the methods for conducting rapid systematic reviews, searched databases from December 2019 to August 2022, assessed the risk of bias using the modified Newcastle Ottawa scale, and graded the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. We pooled the prevalence, mortality, and hospitalisation results as appropriate.

RESULTS: Of the 3055 articles from database search, no study was eligible for inclusion as outlined in the protocol. However, eight non-comparative reports (case series) in skilled nursing facilities were included. The pooled prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among residents of care homes and patients were 38% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 25% - 51%; 5 studies, 2044 participants; I [2] = 94%, very low certainty evidence) and was 12% (95% CI = 6% - 19%; 5 studies, 2312 participants; I [2] = 94%, very low certainty evidence) for exposed healthcare workers. The pooled mortality estimate and hospitalisation rate were 17% and 24%, respectively, (very low certainty evidence).

CONCLUSION: There is no identified evidence for or against testing of people in healthcare facilities where there is ongoing transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

CONTRIBUTION: The evaluation of the effectiveness of testing strategies during SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks need baseline and follow-up data from well-designed before and after studies appropriate for the setting.},
}

@article {pmid40083288,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, J and Rao, R and Shapiro, ME and Tania, N and Herron, C and Musante, CJ and Hughes, JH},
title = {Model-Informed Drug Development Applications and Opportunities in mRNA-LNP Therapeutics.},
journal = {Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/cpt.3641},
pmid = {40083288},
issn = {1532-6535},
abstract = {The utilization of lipid nanoparticles (LNP) for encapsulating mRNA has revolutionized the field of therapeutics, enabling the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines and cancer vaccines. However, the clinical development of mRNA-LNP therapeutics faces numerous challenges due to their complex mechanisms of action and limited clinical experience. To overcome these hurdles, Model-Informed Drug Development (MIDD) emerges as a valuable tool that can be applied to mRNA-LNP therapeutics, facilitating the evaluation of their safety and efficacy through the integration of data from all stages into appropriate modeling and simulation techniques. In this review, we provide an overview of current MIDD applications in mRNA-LNP therapeutics clinical development using in vivo data. A variety of modeling methods are reviewed, including quantitative system pharmacology (QSP), physiologically based pharmacokinetics (PBPK), mechanistic pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), population PK/PD, and model-based meta-analysis (MBMA). Additionally, we compare the differences between mRNA-based therapeutics, small interfering RNA, and adeno-associated virus-based gene therapies in terms of their clinical pharmacology, and discuss the potential for mutual sharing of MIDD knowledge between these therapeutics. Furthermore, we highlight the promising future opportunities for applying MIDD approaches in the development of mRNA-LNP drugs. By emphasizing the importance of applying MIDD knowledge throughout mRNA-LNP therapeutics development, this review aims to encourage stakeholders to recognize the value of MIDD and its potential to enhance the safety and efficacy evaluation of mRNA-LNP therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid39986580,
year = {2025},
author = {Hewison, M},
title = {COVID-19 and our understanding of vitamin D and immune function.},
journal = {The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology},
volume = {249},
number = {},
pages = {106710},
doi = {10.1016/j.jsbmb.2025.106710},
pmid = {39986580},
issn = {1879-1220},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamin D/metabolism/therapeutic use/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vitamin D Deficiency/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Pandemics ; Dietary Supplements ; Immune System/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The interaction between vitamin D and the immune system is perhaps the most well recognised extraskeletal facet of vitamin D, encompassing early studies of therapy for TB and leprosy through to more recent links with autoimmune disease. However, the spotlight on vitamin D and immune function has been particularly intense in the last five years following the COVID-19 pandemic. This was due, in part, to the many association studies of vitamin D status and COVID-19 infection and disease prognosis, as well as the smaller number of clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation. However, a potential role for vitamin D in COVID-19 also stemmed from the basic biology of vitamin D that provides a plausible mechanistic rationale for beneficial effects of vitamin D for improved immune health in the setting of respiratory infection. The aim of this review is to summarise the different strands of mechanistic evidence supporting a beneficial effect of vitamin D in COVID-19, how this was modified during the pandemic itself, and the potential new aspects of vitamin D and immune function that are likely to arise in the near future. Key topics that feature in this review are: antibacterial versus antiviral innate immune responses to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D); the function of immune 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1) activity and metabolism of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) beyond antigen-presenting cells; advances in immune cell target gene responses to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (notably changes in metabolic profile). Whilst much of the interest during the COVID-19 era has focused on vitamin D and public health, the continued evolution of our understanding of how vitamin D interacts with different components of the immune system continues to support a beneficial role for vitamin D in immune health.},
}

Humans
*Vitamin D/metabolism/therapeutic use/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vitamin D Deficiency/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Pandemics
Dietary Supplements
Immune System/metabolism

@article {pmid40083165,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, S and Dai, B and Hou, Y and Zhang, L and Liu, J and Hou, H and Song, D and Wang, S and Li, X and Zhao, H and Wang, W and Kang, J and Tan, W},
title = {Effect of pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with long COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Therapeutic advances in respiratory disease},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {17534666251323482},
doi = {10.1177/17534666251323482},
pmid = {40083165},
issn = {1753-4666},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation/physiopathology ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Quality of Life ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Lung/physiopathology ; Treatment Outcome ; Exercise Tolerance ; Respiratory Function Tests ; Recovery of Function ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has demonstrated efficacy in managing long COVID-19, underscoring the need to refine and tailor PR strategies for optimal patient outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of PR on patients with long COVID-19 and to compare the efficacy of different types and durations of PR interventions.

DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES AND METHODS: We systematically searched randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the effectiveness of PR in long COVID-19 patients published before April 2024. The primary outcomes were physical capacity assessed by the 6-minute walking test (6MWT), lung function measured by forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC), health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and fatigue. Secondary outcomes were thirty-second sit-to-stand test (30STST), handgrip strength tests, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), dyspnea, depression, anxiety, perceived effort, and adverse events.

RESULTS: A total of 37 studies with 3363 patients were included. Compared to controls, PR improved physical capacity (6MWT, 30STST, handgrip), lung function (FEV1, FVC, MIP, MEP), HRQoL, fatigue, dyspnea, and anxiety but did not reach statistical significance for depression. Subgroup analyses of PR duration indicated that programs of ⩽4 weeks improved 6MWT; those between 4 and 8 weeks significantly improved 6MWT, lung function (FEV1, FVC), HRQoL, and reduced fatigue; and programs over 8 weeks improved HRQoL and reduced fatigue. Exercise type analysis revealed that breathing exercises improved 6MWT, lung function (FEV1, FVC), and HRQoL; multicomponent exercises enhanced 6MWT performance and reduced fatigue; the combination of both types improved 6MWT, FEV1 (L), FVC (%pred), HRQoL, and reduced fatigue.

CONCLUSION: PR improves physical capacity, lung function, and quality of life and alleviates dyspnea, fatigue, and anxiety in long COVID-19 patients. A 4- to 8-week PR program and a combination of both breath exercises and multicomponent training is most effective for managing long-term COVID-19 syndromes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID: CRD42024455008.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/rehabilitation/physiopathology
*Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Quality of Life
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Lung/physiopathology
Treatment Outcome
Exercise Tolerance
Respiratory Function Tests
Recovery of Function
Male
Middle Aged
Female

@article {pmid40082759,
year = {2025},
author = {Shahrebabak, AG and Rezaei, M and Shahpar, A and Nezhad, NZ and Sarasyabi, MS and Nakhaie, M and Shahrebabak, MG and Bahri, RA},
title = {The efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination in cystic fibrosis patients: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {358},
pmid = {40082759},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cystic Fibrosis/complications/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccination ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Lung Transplantation/adverse effects ; Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; Adult ; },
abstract = {This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). A systematic search of major databases conducted between December 2019 and January 2024 identified eight cohort studies comprising 1,361 CF patients. Studies without subgroup analyses specific to CF patients were excluded, which may have limited the generalizability of findings, particularly for CF lung transplant recipients. COVID-19 vaccines generally induced robust serological responses following the second and third doses, although reduced antibody levels were observed in lung transplant recipients. Factors influencing humoral response included prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, age, inhaled corticosteroid use, and immunosuppressive therapy. Vaccination-related adverse events were predominantly mild. Although breakthrough infections were reported, severe COVID-19 outcomes were infrequent among vaccinated CF patients. The evidence supports the immunogenicity and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in the CF patients. However, individualized vaccination strategies may be necessary for CF lung transplant recipients and those on immunosuppressive therapies. Further research is essential to optimize vaccination strategies and to identify risk factors associated with breakthrough infections in this high-risk population.},
}

Humans
*Cystic Fibrosis/complications/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccination
Antibodies, Viral/blood
Lung Transplantation/adverse effects
Immunogenicity, Vaccine
Adult

@article {pmid40080850,
year = {2025},
author = {Mahony Reategui-Rivera, C and Villarreal-Zegarra, D and Burgos-Flores, M and Rosales-Rimache, J},
title = {Prevalence and Associated Factors of Mental Health Outcomes in Peruvian Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The FRONTLINE Study.},
journal = {Hispanic health care international : the official journal of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15404153251324638},
doi = {10.1177/15404153251324638},
pmid = {40080850},
issn = {1938-8993},
abstract = {Background: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted global health, particularly the mental health of healthcare workers in low-resource countries like Peru. Aim: To determine the prevalence of depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms among health workers in Peru throughout the COVID-19 pandemic between December 2021 and August 2022. Methodology: Cross-sectional study on health workers (physicians, nurses, midwives, medical technologists, and healthcare technicians) from Peru selected by non-probabilistic sampling adjusted by post-stratification weights and the Raking method. We evaluate depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms with Patient Health Questionnaire 9, General Anxiety Disorder 7, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5. Results: We evaluated 2,122 participants, of which 72% were women, and the average age was 38 years. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 18.6% (95%CI 16.6%-20.8%), anxious symptoms were 12.2% (95%CI 10.6%-13.9%), and post-traumatic stress symptoms were 9.3% (95%CI 7.9%-10.9%). Age, sex, and type of health facility were associated with anxiety and depression symptoms, and for post-traumatic stress symptoms, age, and marital status. Conclusion: Our study provides more updated evidence on the mental health situation of healthcare workers. It reveals a significant proportion of workers with evidence of depressive, anxious, or post-traumatic stress problems.},
}

@article {pmid40080187,
year = {2025},
author = {Dos Reis Guilherme, R and Belangero, WD and Pires, RES and Giordano, V},
title = {Will patient data collection methods change after a pandemic? A systematic review of the strengths, challenges and opportunities of this new scenario.},
journal = {European journal of orthopaedic surgery & traumatology : orthopedie traumatologie},
volume = {35},
number = {1},
pages = {113},
pmid = {40080187},
issn = {1432-1068},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Data Collection/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Interviews as Topic/methods ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: The evolution of survey methods in clinical research has been significantly shaped by technological advances and the global upheaval caused by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. The use of traditional face-to-face interviews has been augmented, and in some cases replaced, by a range of remote interviewing techniques. This shift requires a comprehensive examination of the unique advantages, limitations, and future applications of these methods.

METHODS: This study employs a systematic literature review, guided by PRISMA and Pati's criteria, to examine the nuances of face-to-face, remote, and mixed method interviewing.

RESULTS: From an initial corpus of 2802 articles, 2632 were deemed relevant after applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selection was then refined to 44 articles, which were then subjected to careful analysis. The results are presented as Social Visual Analysis graphs to explicit the relationship between methodologies (each interview technique) and its characteristics.

CONCLUSION: The findings reveal the unique advantages and challenges associated with each interview technique, underscoring the complexity of selecting the most appropriate data collection method for clinical research. In particular, remote interviews are praised for their convenience and high acceptance rates, although they occasionally exhibit lower data quality and potential biases. Mixed-media approaches are emerging as a versatile solution, combining the benefits of different methods to provide a more flexible and comprehensive data collection process.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Data Collection/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Interviews as Topic/methods
Pandemics

@article {pmid40080079,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, D and Long, F and Zhang, S and Yu, B},
title = {Mechanisms and treatment progress of neurological diseases of COVID and L-C19 in children.},
journal = {Physiology international},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1556/2060.2025.00484},
pmid = {40080079},
issn = {2498-602X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Although SARS-CoV-2 primarily targets the respiratory system, there is evidence that it can also infect the central nervous system, especially in children, leading to neurological symptoms and long-term consequences. It is imperative to summarize the possible mechanisms, main symptoms, and treatments of neurological symptoms of COVID-19 in children.

METHODS: We performed a literature search using the PubMed online database to find studies investigating the mechanisms of COVID-19 infection of the central nervous system and therapies for COVID-19 neurological symptoms in children.

RESULTS: The main mechanisms of action of SARS-CoV-2 virus on the nervous system are direct invasion, systemic inflammation and molecular mimicry. Although the incidence of adverse reactions to intravenous IgG therapy (IVIG) varies greatly and the contraindications are not yet clear, IVIG has been shown to be clearly effective for the neurological symptoms of COVID-19 in children.

CONCLUSION: However, due to insufficient data, more clinical studies are still needed to confirm its safety and efficacy, further improve the treatment plan, and determine the appropriate dosage to better serve clinical practice.

SIGNIFICANCE: The specific regimen of IVIG treatment for COVID-19 in children was explored, which further improved the understanding of COVID-19 and L-C19 neurological diseases in children.},
}

@article {pmid40079963,
year = {2025},
author = {Rudolph, AE and Al Akoury, N and Bogdanenko, N and Markus, K and Whittle, I and Wright, O and Haridy, H and Spinardi, JR and McLaughlin, JM and Kyaw, MH},
title = {Factors affecting the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on post COVID-19 conditions among adults: A systematic literature review.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2474772},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2474772},
pmid = {40079963},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; Adult ; },
abstract = {This systematic literature review summarizes the evidence across 56 publications and pre-prints (January 2020-July 2023) with low-risk of bias based on JBI critical appraisal, that report adjusted estimates for the relationship between COVID-19 vaccination and Post-COVID-19 Condition (PCC) by timing of vaccination relative to infection or PCC-onset. Comparisons of adjusted vaccine effectiveness (aVE) against ≥1 PCC (vs. unvaccinated) across study characteristics known to impact PCC burden or VE against other COVID-19 endpoints were possible for 31 studies where vaccination preceded infection. Seventy-seven percent of pre-infection aVE estimates were statistically significant (range: 7%-95%). Statistically significant pre-infection aVE estimates were slightly higher for mRNA (range: 14%-84%) than non-mRNA vaccines (range: 16%-38%) and aVE ranges before and during Omicron overlapped. Our findings suggest that COVID-19 vaccination before SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces the risk of PCC regardless of vaccine type, number of doses received, PCC definition, predominant variant, and severity of acute infections included.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccine Efficacy
Adult

@article {pmid40079461,
year = {2025},
author = {Ju, X and Li, J and Huang, H and Qing, Y and Sandeep, B},
title = {A meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of immunomodulators in the treatment of severe COVID-19.},
journal = {The Journal of international medical research},
volume = {53},
number = {3},
pages = {3000605251317462},
doi = {10.1177/03000605251317462},
pmid = {40079461},
issn = {1473-2300},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/mortality/virology ; Receptors, Interleukin-6/antagonists & inhibitors ; Treatment Outcome ; Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Immunomodulating Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Hospital Mortality ; },
abstract = {ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and adverse events of immunomodulators in the treatment of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).MethodsA literature search for the meta-analysis was performed using PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang Data, CNKI, and Web of Science to identify randomized controlled trials assessing the outcomes of patients treated with corticosteroids alone and/or interleukin-6 receptor antagonists for COVID-19. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane method. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (registry number: CRD42022356904).ResultsCompared with patients receiving standard of care, patients treated with corticosteroids alone had an increased risk of 14-day in-hospital death, whereas those treated with interleukin-6 receptor antagonists alone or in combination with corticosteroids had a lower risk of 14-day in-hospital death. Corticosteroid therapy alone was associated with increased risk of several adverse events, including intensive care unit admission and non-invasive ventilation, whereas interleukin-6 receptor antagonists alone or in combination with corticosteroids were not linked to adverse effects.ConclusionsThe findings supported the safety and efficacy of interleukin-6 receptor antagonists, either alone or together with corticosteroids, in patients with severe COVID-19; evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of corticosteroids monotherapy is lacking.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*SARS-CoV-2
*Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*COVID-19/mortality/virology
Receptors, Interleukin-6/antagonists & inhibitors
Treatment Outcome
Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Drug Therapy, Combination
Immunomodulating Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Hospital Mortality

@article {pmid40079080,
year = {2025},
author = {Ou, L and Shen, Q and Xiao, M and Wang, W and He, T and Wang, B},
title = {Prevalence of co-morbid anxiety and depression in pregnancy and postpartum: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Psychological medicine},
volume = {55},
number = {},
pages = {e84},
doi = {10.1017/S0033291725000601},
pmid = {40079080},
issn = {1469-8978},
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; Prevalence ; *Comorbidity ; *Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology/psychology ; *Depression, Postpartum/epidemiology ; Anxiety/epidemiology ; Depression/epidemiology ; Postpartum Period/psychology ; Anxiety Disorders/epidemiology ; COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; },
abstract = {The prevalence of co-morbid anxiety and depression varies greatly between research studies, making it difficult to understand and estimate the magnitude of this problem. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to provide up-to-date information on the global prevalence of co-morbid anxiety and depression in pregnant and postpartum women and to further investigate the sources of heterogeneity. Systematic searches of eight electronic databases were conducted for original studies published from inception to December 10, 2024. We selected studies that directly reported prevalence data on co-morbid anxiety and depression during the perinatal periods. We extracted data from published study reports and calculated the pooled prevalence of symptoms of co-morbid anxiety and depression. There are 122 articles involving 560,736 women from 43 different countries included in this review. The global prevalence of co-morbid anxiety and depression during the perinatal period was about 9% (95%CI 8%-10%), with approximately 9% (95%CI 8%-11%) in pregnant women and 8% (95%CI 7%-10%) in postpartum women. Prevalence varied significantly by the assessment time points, study country, study design, and the assessment tool used for anxiety and depression, while prevalence was not dependent on publication year, country income level, and COVID-19 context. No publication bias was observed for this prevalence rate. These findings suggest that approximately 1 in 10 women experience co-morbid anxiety and depression during pregnancy and postpartum. Targeted action is needed to reduce this burden.},
}

Humans
Pregnancy
Female
Prevalence
*Comorbidity
*Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology/psychology
*Depression, Postpartum/epidemiology
Anxiety/epidemiology
Depression/epidemiology
Postpartum Period/psychology
Anxiety Disorders/epidemiology
COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology

@article {pmid40079013,
year = {2025},
author = {Dai, J and He, F and Chen, Q and Li, Q and Zhao, L and Du, Y},
title = {Animal models of post-acute COVID-19 syndrome: a call for longitudinal animal studies.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1521029},
pmid = {40079013},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {*COVID-19/immunology ; Animals ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Disease Models, Animal ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology/immunology ; Humans ; Longitudinal Studies ; Pulmonary Fibrosis/etiology ; },
abstract = {Animal models are indispensable for unraveling the mechanisms underlying post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). This review evaluates recent research on PASC-related perturbations in animal models, drawing comparisons with clinical findings. Despite the limited number of studies on post-COVID conditions, particularly those extending beyond three months, these studies provide valuable insights. Three hallmark features of PASC-lung fibrosis, hyperglycemia, and neurological sequelae-have been successfully replicated in animal models, paving the way for mechanistic discoveries and future medical interventions. Although most studies have reported post-COVID conditions within 14-60 days post-infection, they still offer critical reference for future long-term research. This review also explores potential mechanisms of persisting immune misfiring, a key factor in the chronicity of PASC symptoms. Moreover, challenges in modeling PASC are also discussed, including the limited genetic diversity in inbred animal strains and difficulties in accurately identifying PASC-affected individuals. To address these issues, we propose methodological improvements, such as comparing individual animal parameters with control averages and incorporating genetically diverse populations like collaborative cross models. These strategies will enhance the identification and characterization of PASC endotypes in animal studies. By integrating findings from animal models with clinical manifestations of PASC, future research can provide more valuable insights into its mechanisms and support the development of effective therapeutic strategies. Finally, we emphasize the urgent need for longitudinal studies in animal models to fully uncover the mechanisms driving PASC and guide interventions to mitigate its public health impact.},
}

*COVID-19/immunology
Animals
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Disease Models, Animal
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology/immunology
Humans
Longitudinal Studies
Pulmonary Fibrosis/etiology

@article {pmid40078984,
year = {2024},
author = {Guo, Y and Gu, K and Garber, PA and Zhang, R and Zhao, Z and Xu, L},
title = {A comparative analysis of influenza and COVID-19: Environmental-ecological impacts, socioeconomic implications, and future challenges.},
journal = {Biosafety and health},
volume = {6},
number = {6},
pages = {369-375},
pmid = {40078984},
issn = {2590-0536},
abstract = {In the last century, global pandemics have been primarily driven by respiratory infections, which consistently rank among the top 20 causes of death worldwide. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has underscored the intricate nature of managing multiple health crises simultaneously. In recent years, climate change has emerged as a major biosafety and population health challenge. Global warming and extreme weather events have intensified outbreaks of climate-sensitive infectious diseases, especially respiratory diseases. Influenza and COVID-19 have emerged as two of the most significant respiratory pandemics, each with unique epidemic characteristics and far-reaching consequences. Our comparative analysis reveals that while both diseases exhibit high transmission rates, COVID-19's longer incubation period and higher severity have led to more profound and prolonged socioeconomic disruptions than influenza. Both pandemics have highlighted the exacerbating effects of climate change, with extreme weather events intensifying the spread and impact of these diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global healthcare systems and economies on an unprecedented scale, outstripping the strain caused by influenza outbreaks. Importantly, the COVID-19 pandemic has not only reshaped global public health strategies but also significantly impacted the epidemiology of influenza. Despite these differences and associations, both diseases underscore the urgent need for robust pandemic preparedness and adaptable public health strategies. This review delineates the overlaps and distinctions between influenza and COVID-19, offering insights into future challenges and the critical steps needed to enhance healthcare system resilience and improve global responses to pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid39348850,
year = {2025},
author = {Kruger, A and Joffe, D and Lloyd-Jones, G and Khan, MA and Šalamon, Š and Laubscher, GJ and Putrino, D and Kell, DB and Pretorius, E},
title = {Vascular Pathogenesis in Acute and Long COVID: Current Insights and Therapeutic Outlook.},
journal = {Seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis},
volume = {51},
number = {3},
pages = {256-271},
pmid = {39348850},
issn = {1098-9064},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology/pathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Acute Disease ; },
abstract = {Long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-a postacute consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection-manifests with a broad spectrum of relapsing and remitting or persistent symptoms as well as varied levels of organ damage, which may be asymptomatic or present as acute events such as heart attacks or strokes and recurrent infections, hinting at complex underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Central to these symptoms is vascular dysfunction rooted in thrombotic endothelialitis. We review the scientific evidence that widespread endothelial dysfunction (ED) leads to chronic symptomatology. We briefly examine the molecular pathways contributing to endothelial pathology and provide a detailed analysis of how these cellular processes underpin the clinical picture. Noninvasive diagnostic techniques, such as flow-mediated dilation and peripheral arterial tonometry, are evaluated for their utility in identifying ED. We then explore mechanistic, cellular-targeted therapeutic interventions for their potential in treating ED. Overall, we emphasize the critical role of cellular health in managing Long COVID and highlight the need for early intervention to prevent long-term vascular and cellular dysfunction.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications
*SARS-CoV-2
Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology/pathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Acute Disease

@article {pmid39304293,
year = {2025},
author = {McWhirter, L},
title = {Brain fog.},
journal = {Practical neurology},
volume = {25},
number = {2},
pages = {137-142},
doi = {10.1136/pn-2024-004112},
pmid = {39304293},
issn = {1474-7766},
mesh = {Humans ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging ; },
abstract = {'Brain fog' is a term that patients use increasingly frequently in the neurology clinic. We may think that we know what patients are talking about but at least some of the time we are likely to be getting it wrong. Patients use the term 'brain fog' to describe a wide range of subjective phenomena and symptoms. This paper suggests useful lines of questioning, and discusses the clinical correlates of a range of common 'brain fog' experiences.},
}

Humans
*Brain/diagnostic imaging

@article {pmid40078733,
year = {2024},
author = {Liu, J and Wong, G and Li, H and Yang, Y and Cao, Y and Li, Y and Wu, Y and Zhang, Z and Jin, C and Wang, X and Chen, Y and Su, B and Wang, Z and Wang, Q and Cao, Y and Chen, G and Qian, Z and Zhao, J and Wu, G},
title = {Biosafety and immunology: An interdisciplinary field for health priority.},
journal = {Biosafety and health},
volume = {6},
number = {5},
pages = {310-318},
doi = {10.1016/j.bsheal.2024.07.005},
pmid = {40078733},
issn = {2590-0536},
abstract = {Biosafety hazards can trigger a host immune response after infection, invasion, or contact with the host. Whether infection with a microorganism results in disease or biosafety concerns depends to a large extent on the immune status of the population. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the immunological characteristics of the host and the mechanisms of biological threats and agents to protect the host more effectively. Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, such as the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, have raised concerns regarding both biosafety and immunology worldwide. Interdisciplinary studies involved in biosafety and immunology are relevant in many fields, including the development of vaccines and other immune interventions such as monoclonal antibodies and T-cells, herd immunity (or population-level barrier immunity), immunopathology, and multispecies immunity, i.e., animals and even plants. Meanwhile, advances in immunological science and technology are occurring rapidly, resulting in important research achievements that may contribute to the recognition of emerging biosafety hazards, as well as early warning, prevention, and defense systems. This review provides an overview of the interdisciplinary field of biosafety and immunology. Close collaboration and innovative application of immunology in the field of biosafety is becoming essential for human health.},
}

@article {pmid40078397,
year = {2025},
author = {Althobiani, MA and Russell, AM and Jacob, J and Ranjan, Y and Ahmad, R and Folarin, AA and Hurst, JR and Porter, JC},
title = {The role of digital health in respiratory diseases management: a narrative review of recent literature.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1361667},
doi = {10.3389/fmed.2025.1361667},
pmid = {40078397},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {This review provides a detailed overview of how digital health can be utilized in the management of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). ILD encompasses a diverse range of lung disorders characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, leading to restrictive lung physiology and impaired gas exchange, with symptoms including progressive dyspnoea, cough, and hypoxia. COPD which ranks as the third leading cause of death globally, is characterized by chronic lung inflammation causing irreversible airflow obstruction, recurrent exacerbations. While recent advances in digital health have shown promise, predicting disease progression in patients with ILD and exacerbation in patients with COPD remains challenging. This review explores the role of digital health in managing ILD and COPD, particularly focusing on telehealth and digital health technologies. Telehealth, defined broadly as the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies in healthcare, has become increasingly relevant, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review examines the role of digital health technologies in the management of ILD and COPD, with particular focus on telemedicine, and digital health tools. Remote monitoring technologies, including home spirometry and wearable devices, have demonstrated feasibility in managing respiratory diseases. However, challenges such as evidence, data reliability, varying adherence, education, and the high costs of data collection and lack of qualified clinicians present barriers for many national health systems.},
}

@article {pmid40077884,
year = {2025},
author = {Casas, K and DiPede, L and Toema, S and Ogwo, C},
title = {Assessing Teledentistry versus In-Person Examinations to Detect Dental Caries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {JDR clinical and translational research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {23800844251320974},
doi = {10.1177/23800844251320974},
pmid = {40077884},
issn = {2380-0852},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There is no recent consensus on the effectiveness of teledentistry versus in-person examination in the diagnosis of dental caries, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of teledentistry versus in-person examination for dental caries diagnosis (PROSPERO #CRD42023410962).

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the effectiveness of teledentistry versus in-person examination for dental caries diagnosis. The eligibility criteria were peer-reviewed studies published in English between January 2013 and December 2021 that reported diagnostic parameters (specificity and sensitivity) for caries detection in primary and permanent dentition. Articles were extracted using search strategies from PubMed and CINAHL databases and screened using PRISMA-DTA guidelines, following a review for quality assessment and risk of bias using the QUADAS-2 and JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists. Meta-analysis was conducted in R using the MADA package. A descriptive analysis of the sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio, and confidence intervals was performed with respective forest plots. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane Q and Higgins's I[2] tests. Univariate measures of diagnostic accuracy were performed based on the DerSimonian-Laird random effect and reported summary diagnostic odds ratios.

RESULTS: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed and included in the meta-analysis. The diagnostic parameters ranged from 45.6% to 88.3% for sensitivity, 55.2% to 98.3% for specificity, 79% to 92% for positive predictive value, 48% to 97% for negative predictive value, and 70% to 96% for accuracy. The κ scores ranged from 0.46 to 0.89 for teledentistry modalities. Tests for equality of sensitivities and specificities were significant (P < 0.001). The studies were not heterogeneous with Cochran's Q: 14.502 (P = 0.206) and Higgins's I[2] of 24%. The multivariable analysis showed a diagnostic odds ratio based on the DerSimonian-Laird random effect of 35.14, which indicates that the odds of caries detection via teledentistry is 35 times more true positive (i.e., correctly identifying a positive condition) than false positive.

CONCLUSIONS: Diagnosis of caries via teledentistry is effective and comparable to in-person diagnosis. Remote assessments are consistent in diagnostic accuracy for caries.Knowledge Transfer Statement:This systematic review and meta-analysis added to the evidence about using teledentistry assessment as a diagnostically accurate tool to detect dental caries. Using teledentistry dental practices could promote greater access to dental and oral health care in the absence of in-person assessment.},
}

@article {pmid40077864,
year = {2025},
author = {Cilloniz, C and Videla, AJ and Pulido, L and Uy-King, MJ},
title = {Viral community-acquired pneumonia: What's new since COVID-19 emerged?.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2025.2479611},
pmid = {40077864},
issn = {1747-6356},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: All over the world, viral pneumonia has a significant impact on morbidity and mortality, especially among vulnerable populations. The most common respiratory viruses causing pneumonia include influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, adenoviruses and rhinovirus. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape of viral pneumonia and has reshaped our understanding of the role of viruses in this disease. We are now more aware of the importance of early diagnosis, the impact of co-infections, the effects of viral variants, and the long-term consequences of post-viral pneumonia.

AREAS COVERED: We discuss the latest scientific evidence regarding epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of viral pneumonia. This review summarizes findings from a PubMed search on respiratory viruses in community-acquired pneumonia.

EXPERT OPINION: Our experience during the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our perspective on respiratory viruses and their role in viral pneumonia. Diagnostic advances have been made, co-infections have received greater recognition, immune responses to viral infections are better understood, and approaches to treating viral pneumonia have expanded. Despite this progress, however, research on the impact of respiratory viruses on pneumonia must continue to pursue the development of new antivirals and vaccines, and investigate the long-term sequelae, especially in cases of severe viral pneumonia.},
}

@article {pmid40077853,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, SC and Xu, CT and Chang, CF and Yang, CS and Lin, PH and Liu, WM and Chen, Y and Yu, CH},
title = {Characterization of the binding features between SARS-CoV-2 5'-proximal transcripts of genomic RNA and nucleocapsid proteins.},
journal = {RNA biology},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {1-16},
doi = {10.1080/15476286.2025.2471643},
pmid = {40077853},
issn = {1555-8584},
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/metabolism ; *RNA, Viral/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; *Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; Humans ; *Protein Binding ; Nucleic Acid Conformation ; Genome, Viral ; Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; COVID-19/virology ; Binding Sites ; Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay ; 5' Untranslated Regions ; Phosphoproteins ; },
abstract = {Packaging signals (PSs) of coronaviruses (CoVs) are specific RNA elements recognized by nucleocapsid (N) proteins that direct the selective packaging of genomic RNAs (gRNAs). These signals have been identified in the coding regions of the nonstructural protein 15 (Nsp 15) in CoVs classified under Embecovirus, a subgenus of betacoronaviruses (beta-CoVs). The PSs in other alpha- and beta-CoVs have been proposed to reside in the 5'-proximal regions of gRNAs, supported by comprehensive phylogenetic evidence. However, experimental data remain limited. In this study, we investigated the interactions between Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) 5'-proximal gRNA transcripts and N proteins using electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs). Our findings revealed that the in vitro synthesized 5'-proximal gRNA transcripts of CoVs can shift from a major conformation to alternative conformations. We also observed that the conformer comprising multiple stem-loops (SLs) is preferentially bound by N proteins. Deletions of the 5'-proximal structural elements of CoV gRNA transcripts, SL1 and SL5a/b/c in particular, were found to promote the formation of alternative conformations. Furthermore, we identified RNA-binding peptides from a pool derived from SARS-CoV N protein. These RNA-interacting peptides were shown to preferentially bind to wild-type SL5a RNA. In addition, our observations of N protein condensate formation in vitro demonstrated that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of N proteins with CoV-5'-UTR transcripts was influenced by the presence of SL5a/b/c. In conclusion, these results collectively reveal previously uncharacterized binding features between the 5'-proximal transcripts of CoV gRNAs and N proteins.},
}

*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/metabolism
*RNA, Viral/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
*Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
Humans
*Protein Binding
Nucleic Acid Conformation
Genome, Viral
Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
COVID-19/virology
Binding Sites
Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay
5' Untranslated Regions
Phosphoproteins

@article {pmid40077121,
year = {2025},
author = {Quintana, GR},
title = {The Multifaceted Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Sexual Health, Function, and Behaviors: Implications for Public Health: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13050559},
pmid = {40077121},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {3789-23//Programa de Fortalecimiento de Grupos de Investigación UTA 2023/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had a significant impact on sexual health and human behavior, revealing a widespread decline in sexual function and behaviors.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize these findings and highlight their importance for public health, this article discusses the changes observed in sexual function and behavior during the pandemic, as well as potential explanations for these trends.

METHODS: This study followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, using the keyword search commands: "sexual function" AND ("SARS-CoV-2" OR "COVID-19" OR coronavirus) and "sexual behavior*" AND ("SARS-CoV-2" OR "COVID-19" OR coronavirus) in the Scopus and PubMed databases. The search was conducted on 10 March 2024, including articles published from January 2019 to March 2024. Inclusion criteria required studies focusing on sexual health/function during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, excluding non-English articles and non-adult populations. Studies were screened based on relevance, methodological rigor, and sample size, with data extraction focusing on sexual behavior/function metrics. Results were synthesized to identify trends and propose explanatory models.

RESULTS: While some individuals experienced reductions in sexual desire and activities, others reported increases, indicating varied individual responses to stressors such as a pandemic. Two hypotheses are presented to explain these changes: terror management theory and the dual control model of sexual response. The critical role of public health in addressing sexual health and well-being needs during a health crisis is discussed, emphasizing the importance of providing clear information, ensuring access to remote sexual health services, and reducing stigma. The need to integrate sexual health into the global response to future health crises is highlighted to ensure a comprehensive approach to human well-being.

CONCLUSIONS: This review shows the multifaceted impact of the pandemic and social distancing in people's sexual function and behaviors, underscoring the importance of considering sexual health as an integral part of the emergency health planning and response, to promote the physical and mental well-being of the population during crises such as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40076806,
year = {2025},
author = {Quecchia, C and Vianello, A},
title = {The Therapeutic Potential of Myo-Inositol in Managing Patients with Respiratory Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26052185},
pmid = {40076806},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Inositol/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy/metabolism ; Asthma/drug therapy/metabolism ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Respiratory Tract Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Respiratory diseases are major health concerns worldwide. Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are the third leading cause of death worldwide and some of the most common are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, occupational lung diseases, and pulmonary hypertension. Despite having different etiology and characteristics, these diseases share several features, such as a persistent inflammatory state, chronic oxidative stress, impaired mucociliary clearance, and increased alveolar surface tension. CRDs are not curable; however, various forms of treatment, that help restore airway patency and reduce shortness of breath, can improve daily life for people living with these conditions. In this regard myo-inositol may represent a valid therapeutic adjuvant approach due to its properties. Being a redox balancer, an inflammation modulator, and, most importantly, a component of pulmonary surfactant, it may improve lung function and counteract symptoms associated with respiratory diseases, as recently evidenced in patients with COPD, COVID-19, asthma, and bronchiectasis. The aim of this review is to evaluate the potential therapeutic role of myo-inositol supplementation in the management of patients with respiratory diseases.},
}

Humans
*Inositol/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism
*Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy/metabolism
Asthma/drug therapy/metabolism
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2
Respiratory Tract Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism

@article {pmid40076527,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, DS and Lien, TS and Chang, HH},
title = {Virus-Induced Pathogenic Antibodies: Lessons from Long COVID and Dengue Hemorrhage Fever.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26051898},
pmid = {40076527},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {104-2320-B-320 -009 -MY3, 107-2311-B-320-002-MY3, 111-2320-B320-006-MY3, 112-2320-B-320-007//National Science and Technology Council, Taiwan/ ; TCMMP104-06, TCMMP108-04, TCMMP 111-01, TCAS111-02, TCAS-112-02, TCAS113-04, TCRD112-033, TCRD113-041//Tzu-Chi Medical Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Severe Dengue/immunology/virology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *Dengue Virus/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology ; Autoantibodies/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Virus-induced antibodies represent a dual-edged sword in the immune response to viral infections. While antibodies are critical for neutralizing pathogens, some can paradoxically exacerbate disease severity through mechanisms such as antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), autoantibody, and prolonged inflammation. Long coronavirus disease (COVID) and dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) exemplify conditions where pathogenic antibodies play a pivotal role in disease progression. Long COVID is associated with persistent immune dysregulation and autoantibody production, leading to chronic symptoms and tissue damage. In DHF, pre-existing antibodies against dengue virus contribute to ADE, amplifying viral replication, immune activation, and vascular permeability. This review explores the mechanisms underlying these pathogenic antibody responses, highlighting the shared pathways of immune dysregulation and comparing the distinct features of both conditions. By examining these studies, we identify key lessons for therapeutic strategies, vaccine design, and future research aimed at mitigating the severe outcomes of viral infections.},
}

Humans
*Severe Dengue/immunology/virology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*Dengue Virus/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology
Autoantibodies/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Animals

@article {pmid40076476,
year = {2025},
author = {Sepúlveda-Delgado, J and Llorente, L and Hernández-Doño, S},
title = {A Comprehensive Review of Fc Gamma Receptors and Their Role in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26051851},
pmid = {40076476},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology/metabolism ; *Receptors, IgG/metabolism/immunology/genetics ; Animals ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Receptors for the immunoglobulin G constant fraction (FcγRs) are widely expressed in cells of the immune system. Complement-independent phagocytosis prompted FcγR research to show that the engagement of IgG immune complexes with FcγRs triggers a variety of cell host immune responses, such as phagocytosis, antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity, and NETosis, among others. However, variants of these receptors have been implicated in the development of and susceptibility to autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus. Currently, the knowledge of FcγR variants is a required field of antibody therapeutics, which includes the engineering of recombinant soluble human Fc gamma receptors, enhancing the inhibitory and blocking the activating FcγRs function, vaccines, and organ transplantation. Importantly, recent interest in FcγRs is the antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), a mechanism by which the pathogenesis of certain viral infections is enhanced. ADEs may be responsible for the severity of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, FcγRs have become a current research topic. Therefore, this review briefly describes some of the historical knowledge about the FcγR type I family in humans, including the structure, affinity, and mechanism of ligand binding, FcγRs in diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and the potential therapeutic approaches related to these receptors in SLE.},
}

Humans
*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology/metabolism
*Receptors, IgG/metabolism/immunology/genetics
Animals
COVID-19/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology/metabolism

@article {pmid40076268,
year = {2025},
author = {Petrov, V and Aleksandrova, T and Pashev, A},
title = {Synthetic Approaches to Novel DPP-IV Inhibitors-A Literature Review.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30051043},
pmid = {40076268},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {BG-RRP-2.004-0003//European Union-NextGenerationEU, through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria, project № BG-RRP-2.004-0003/ ; },
mesh = {*Dipeptidyl-Peptidase IV Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4/metabolism/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19/virology ; },
abstract = {Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) is a serine protease whose inhibition has been an object of considerable interest in the context of developing novel treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The development of novel DPP-IV inhibitors from natural or synthetic origin has seen a growing scientific interest in recent years, especially during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, when DPP-IV inhibitors were found to be of beneficial therapeutic value for COVID-19 patients. The present manuscript aims to summarize the most recent information on the synthesis of different DPP-IV inhibitors, emphasizing the various heterocyclic scaffolds that can be found in them. Special attention is devoted to DPP-IV inhibitors that are currently in clinical trials. Different synthetic approaches for the construction of DPP-IV inhibitors are discussed, as well as the most recent developments in the field.},
}

*Dipeptidyl-Peptidase IV Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/therapeutic use
Humans
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4/metabolism/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19/virology

@article {pmid40075889,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, R and Kumar, R and Weaver, A and Kim, JH and Raza, A and Ong, J and Waisberg, E and Pandit, R},
title = {Cornea Oculomics: A Clinical Blueprint for Extending Corneal Diagnostics and Artificial Intelligence in Systemic Health Insights.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diagnostics15050643},
pmid = {40075889},
issn = {2075-4418},
abstract = {Oculomics is an emerging field that leverages ophthalmic imaging data to identify biomarkers of systemic disease, facilitating early diagnosis and risk stratification. Despite its growing recognition, gaps remain in the literature regarding the clinical applications of oculomics. Various systemic diseases-including metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes mellitus), infectious diseases (e.g., COVID-19), neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., dementia), hematologic disorders (e.g., thalassemia), autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), and genetic syndromes (e.g., Fabry disease)-exhibit ocular manifestations detectable through in vivo confocal microscopy and anterior segment optical coherence tomography, among other imaging modalities. Increasing evidence supports the role of corneal imaging in identifying systemic disease biomarkers, a process further enhanced by artificial intelligence-driven analyses. This review synthesizes the current findings on corneal biomarkers of systemic disease, their ophthalmic imaging correlates, and the expanding role of corneal oculomics in translational medicine. Additionally, we explore future directions for integrating oculomics into clinical practice and biomedical research.},
}

@article {pmid40075519,
year = {2025},
author = {Leong, KY and Tham, SK and Poh, CL},
title = {Revolutionizing immunization: a comprehensive review of mRNA vaccine technology and applications.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {71},
pmid = {40075519},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *mRNA Vaccines ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/administration & dosage ; Vaccine Development/methods ; Immunization/methods ; Animals ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have emerged as a transformative platform in modern vaccinology. mRNA vaccine is a powerful alternative to traditional vaccines due to their high potency, safety, and efficacy, coupled with the ability for rapid clinical development, scalability and cost-effectiveness in manufacturing. Initially conceptualized in the 1970s, the first study about the effectiveness of a mRNA vaccine against influenza was conducted in 1993. Since then, the development of mRNA vaccines has rapidly gained significance, especially in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Their unprecedented success during the COVID-19 pandemic, as demonstrated by the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, highlighted their transformative potential. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the mRNA vaccine technology, detailing the structure of the mRNA vaccine and its mechanism of action in inducing immunity. Advancements in nanotechnology, particularly lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as delivery vehicles, have revolutionized the field. The manufacturing processes, including upstream production, downstream purification, and formulation are also reviewed. The clinical progress of mRNA vaccines targeting viruses causing infectious diseases is discussed, emphasizing their versatility and therapeutic potential. Despite their success, the mRNA vaccine platform faces several challenges, including improved stability to reduce dependence on cold chain logistics in transport, enhanced delivery mechanisms to target specific tissues or cells, and addressing the risk of rare adverse events. High costs associated with encapsulation in LNPs and the potential for unequal global access further complicate their widespread adoption. As the world continues to confront emerging viral threats, overcoming these challenges will be essential to fully harness the potential of mRNA vaccines. It is anticipated that mRNA vaccines will play a major role in defining and shaping the future of global health.},
}

Humans
*mRNA Vaccines
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/administration & dosage
Vaccine Development/methods
Immunization/methods
Animals
Liposomes

@article {pmid40075382,
year = {2025},
author = {Weigel, B and Inderyas, M and Eaton-Fitch, N and Thapaliya, K and Marshall-Gradisnik, S},
title = {Health-related quality of life in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Post COVID-19 Condition: a systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {318},
pmid = {40075382},
issn = {1479-5876},
support = {489798//Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation/ ; 1199502//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; 47107//Mason Foundation/ ; 49979//McCusker Charitable Foundation/ ; 4676//Buxton Foundation/ ; 4879//Henty Community/ ; 4579//Blake Beckett Trust Foundation/ ; 4570//Alison Hunter Memorial Foundation/ ; 4575//Change for ME Charity/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic ; *Quality of Life ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC) are debilitating, chronic multi-systemic illnesses that require multidisciplinary care. However, people with ME/CFS (pwME/CFS) and people with PCC (pwPCC) are often precluded from accessing necessary disability and social support services. These unmet care needs exacerbate the existing illness burdens experienced by pwME/CFS and pwPCC. To deliver appropriate care and optimise health outcomes for pwME/CFS and pwPCC, the development of evidence-based healthcare policies that recognise the disabling impacts of these illnesses must be prioritised. This systematic review summarises the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of pwME/CFS and pwPCC when compared with healthy controls (HCs) to elucidate the impacts of these illnesses and guide healthcare policy reform.

METHODS: CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO and the Web of Science Core Collection were systematically searched from 1st January 2003 to 23rd July 2024. Eligible publications included observational studies capturing quantitative HRQoL data among pwME/CFS or pwPCC when compared with HCs. The use of validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) was mandatory. Eligible studies were also required to employ the most stringent diagnostic criteria currently available, including the Canadian Consensus Criteria or International Consensus Criteria for ME/CFS and the World Health Organization case definition for PCC (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024501309).

RESULTS: This review captured 16 studies, including eight studies among pwME/CFS, seven studies among pwPCC and one study among both illness cohorts. Most participants were female and middle-aged. All pwPCC had experienced prolonged COVID-19 symptoms for at least three months. When compared with HCs, all HRQoL domains were significantly impaired among pwME/CFS and pwPCC. Both illnesses had a salient impact on physical health, including pain and ability to perform daily and work activities. While direct comparisons between pwME/CFS and pwPCC were limited by inconsistencies in the PROMs employed, comparable impact trends across HRQoL domain scores were observed.

CONCLUSION: ME/CFS and PCC have similar, profound impacts on HRQoL that warrant access to multidisciplinary disability and social support services. Future research must harmonise HRQoL data collection and prioritise longitudinal investigations among pwME/CFS and pwPCC to characterise PCC subgroups (including those fulfilling ME/CFS criteria) and predictors of prognosis.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic
*Quality of Life
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Female

@article {pmid40075026,
year = {2025},
author = {Bahreiny, SS and Bastani, MN and Keyvani, H and Mohammadpour Fard, R and Aghaei, M and Mansouri, Z and Karamali, N and Sakhavarz, T and Amraei, M and Harooni, E},
title = {VEGF-A in COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analytical approach to its prognostic value.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental medicine},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {81},
pmid = {40075026},
issn = {1591-9528},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood/diagnosis/mortality ; *Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood ; Prognosis ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Biomarkers/blood ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {Numerous studies have reported vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) has a significant impact on the pathophysiology of COVID-19. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the prognostic value of increased levels of VEGF-A in individuals with COVID-19. A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, up to January 2024. Studies examining the levels of VEGF-A in the serum or plasma of COVID-19 patients were incorporated, with specific attention given to contrasting severe/critical cases against moderate cases. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model to determine overall effect sizes. Meta-regressions and subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity. The meta-analysis synthesized data from 11 studies involving a total of 1119 COVID-19 patients. Elevated levels of VEGF-A were significantly associated with disease severity, with a pooled SMD of 0.525 (95% CI 0.239-0.058; P = 0.028). Research has indicated that the nature of the relationship differs among various age groups, and there were minor discrepancies in the techniques employed to obtain VEGF-A measurements. Furthermore, meta-regression analysis indicated a potential correlation between VEGF-A levels and assay technique and body mass index (BMI). This meta-analysis provides compelling evidence for the prognostic potency of VEGF-A in COVID-19. Understanding the intricate interplay between VEGF-A and COVID-19 pathophysiology holds promise for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies and prognostic indicators in the management of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood/diagnosis/mortality
*Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/blood
Prognosis
*SARS-CoV-2
Biomarkers/blood
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid40074984,
year = {2025},
author = {Khatun, O and Kaur, S and Tripathi, S},
title = {Anti-interferon armamentarium of human coronaviruses.},
journal = {Cellular and molecular life sciences : CMLS},
volume = {82},
number = {1},
pages = {116},
pmid = {40074984},
issn = {1420-9071},
support = {Blockchain for Impact//Blockchain for Impact/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Interferons/immunology/metabolism ; *Immunity, Innate/drug effects ; *Virus Replication/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology/drug effects/physiology ; Coronavirus/drug effects/immunology/physiology ; Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Coronavirus Infections/immunology/drug therapy/virology ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Cellular innate immune pathways are formidable barriers against viral invasion, creating an environment unfavorable for virus replication. Interferons (IFNs) play a crucial role in driving and regulating these cell-intrinsic innate antiviral mechanisms through the action of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). The host IFN response obstructs viral replication at every stage, prompting viruses to evolve various strategies to counteract or evade this response. Understanding the interplay between viral proteins and cell-intrinsic IFN-mediated immune mechanisms is essential for developing antiviral and anti-inflammatory strategies. Human coronaviruses (HCoVs), including SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and seasonal coronaviruses, encode a range of proteins that, through shared and distinct mechanisms, inhibit IFN-mediated innate immune responses. Compounding the issue, a dysregulated early IFN response can lead to a hyper-inflammatory immune reaction later in the infection, resulting in severe disease. This review provides a brief overview of HCoV replication and a detailed account of its interaction with host cellular innate immune pathways regulated by IFN.},
}

Humans
*Interferons/immunology/metabolism
*Immunity, Innate/drug effects
*Virus Replication/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2/immunology/drug effects/physiology
Coronavirus/drug effects/immunology/physiology
Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Coronavirus Infections/immunology/drug therapy/virology
COVID-19/immunology/virology
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology/drug effects

@article {pmid40074704,
year = {2025},
author = {Schwartz, J and Capistrano, K and Hussein, H and Hafedi, A and Shukla, D and Naqvi, A},
title = {Oral SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Risk for Long Covid.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {e70029},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70029},
pmid = {40074704},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01DE027980//NIDCR/NIH/ ; R56DE033249//NIDCR/NIH/ ; R01EY033622//NEI/NIH/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Microbiota ; Dysbiosis ; Mouth Mucosa/virology/immunology/microbiology ; Virus Internalization ; Mouth Diseases/virology/microbiology/immunology ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 is an oral pathogen that infects and replicates in mucosal and salivary epithelial cells, contributing to oral post-acute sequelae COVID-19 (PASC) and other oral and non-oral pathologies. While pre-existing inflammatory oral diseases provides a conducive environment for the virus, acute infection and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 can also results in oral microbiome dysbiosis that further worsens poor oral mucosal health. Indeed, oral PASC includes periodontal diseases, dysgeusia, xerostomia, pharyngitis, oral keratoses, and pulpitis suggesting significant bacterial contributions to SARS-CoV-2 and oral tissue tropism. Dysbiotic microbiome-induced inflammation can promote viral entry via angiotensin-converting enzyme receptor-2 (ACE2), serine transmembrane TMPRSS2 and possibly other non-canonical pathways. Additionally, metabolites derived from a dysbiotic microbiome can alter the physiological and biochemical pathways related to the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates, and amino acids. This may promote a pro-inflammatory microenvironment, leading to immune exhaustion, loss of tolerance, and susceptibility to a variety of oral pathogens, causing acute and later chronic inflammation. Microbial release of mimics of host metallopeptidases related to furin, ADAM17 (A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17), and glycoprotein metabolites can further aid viral attachment to T cell immunoglobulin-like (TIMs), enhancing viral entry while simultaneously depressing oral mucosal immune resistance and clearance. Membrane reorganization characterised by neuroproteins, such as neuropilins, also functionally assists with SARS-CoV-2 entry and extends the pathogenesis of PASC from the oral cavity to the brain, gut, or other non-oral tissues. Thus, poor oral health, characterised by disrupted oral microbiomes can promote viral tropism, weaken antiviral resistance, and heightens susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. This immune dysfunction also increases the risk of additional viral infections, exacerbating oral conditions like periodontal and endodontic diseases. These persistent oral health issues can contribute to systemic inflammation, creating bidirectional effects between oral and non-oral tissues, potentially leading to Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Microbiota
Dysbiosis
Mouth Mucosa/virology/immunology/microbiology
Virus Internalization
Mouth Diseases/virology/microbiology/immunology
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism

@article {pmid40074252,
year = {2025},
author = {Sculco, C and Bano, B and Prina, E and Tedeschi, F and Bartucz, MB and Barbui, C and Purgato, M and Albanese, E},
title = {Access and use of general and mental health services before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {e091342},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091342},
pmid = {40074252},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Mental Health Services/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Mental Disorders/epidemiology/therapy ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To quantify access to health services during the COVID-19 pandemic and measure the change in use between the prepandemic and the pandemic periods in a population with assessment of psychological distress or diagnosis of mental disorders.

DATA SOURCES: We developed and piloted a search syntax and adapted it to enter the following databases from 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2023: PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Epistemonikos and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We reran the searches from the end of the original search to 3 December 2024.

DESIGN: We systematically screened titles, abstracts and full texts of retrieved records.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included observational studies on any populations and regions, covering health services such as doctor visits, hospital admissions, diagnostic examinations, pharmaceutical therapies and mental health (MH) services. Only studies using validated scales to assess psychological distress or mental disorders as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders were included.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: We extracted data using a purposefully designed form and evaluated the studies' quality with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We measured the incidence rate (IR) of access to health services and the IR ratio (IRR) between the prepandemic and the pandemic periods. We calculated contacts days and catchment areas in the different periods. We used the random effects DerSimonian-Laird inverse-variance model and calculated heterogeneity with statistics I² and τ². We computed pooled IR and pooled IRR and tested the hypothesis of no variation (IRR=1).

RESULTS: We retrieved 10 014 records and examined the full text of 580 articles. We included 136 primary studies of which 44 were meta-analysed. The IR of access to services during the pandemic was 2.59 contact months per 10 000 inhabitants (IR=2.592; 95% CI: 1.301 to 5.164). We observed a reduction of 28.5% in the use of services with negligible differences by age group and type of services (IRR=0.715; 95% CI: 0.651 to 0.785). We observed significant differences in effect sizes across studies (τ[2]=5.44; p<0.001 and τ[2]=0.090; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION: By considering MH, our study provides consolidated evidence and quantifies the reduction in the use of health services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023403778.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Health Services Accessibility
*Mental Health Services/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Mental Disorders/epidemiology/therapy
Pandemics

@article {pmid40074013,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, S and Zhong, Q and Xie, X and Zhang, S and Wang, J and Liu, H and Dai, W},
title = {Research progress on critical viral protease inhibitors for coronaviruses and enteroviruses.},
journal = {Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {130168},
doi = {10.1016/j.bmcl.2025.130168},
pmid = {40074013},
issn = {1464-3405},
abstract = {Viral infectious diseases have been seriously affecting human life and health. SARS-CoV-2 was the pathogen that caused Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and the impact of COVID-19 is still existing. Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is the primary pathogen of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), and no effective direct-acting antiviral drugs targeting EV71 has been approved yet. Innate antiviral strategies play an important role in preventing virus infections depending on the powerful immune regulatory system of body, while viruses have evolved to exploit diverse methods to overcome immune response. Viral proteases, which are known in cleaving viral polyproteins, have also been found to modulate the innate immunity of host cells, thereby promoting viral proliferation. Herein, we reviewed the current development of SARS-CoV-2 3CL[pro], PL[pro], and EV71 3C[pro] and 2A[pro], mainly including structure, function, modulation of immune response, and inhibitors of these four proteases, to further deepen the understanding of viral pathogenesis and provide a new perspective for subsequent corresponding drug development.},
}