@article {pmid40458176,
year = {2025},
author = {Anbardar, N and Dixon, SL and Munugoti, S and Gaddam, M and Kashfi, K and Kasulis, L and Messersmith, AL and Asadipooya, K},
title = {Thyroid disorders and COVID-19: a comprehensive review of literature.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1535169},
pmid = {40458176},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Thyroid Diseases/epidemiology/virology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The literature is rapidly evolving with regards to the endocrine consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), including diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, adrenal and pituitary disorders. There is evidence suggesting that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can lead to thyroid dysfunction and long-term sequelae. We aimed to review the current evidence and propose a preventive approach based on the published data since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A comprehensive review of literature was conducted using electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Two authors independently used the keywords "Thyroid, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Graves, Thyroid Eye Disease, or Thyroiditis" and "Coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19" to search these databases. We screened titles and abstracts for initial selection and then reviewed the full text of relevant studies to report the outcomes of published data.

RESULTS: We selected 28 manuscripts. SARS-CoV-2 infection appears similar to other viruses. It affects thyroid function resulting in non-thyroidal illness syndrome, which usually resolves spontaneously. COVID-19 also causes subacute thyroiditis. It may also trigger autoimmunity against the thyroid that leads to autoimmune thyroiditis. Autoimmune thyroiditis or subacute thyroiditis may progress to clinical or subclinical hypothyroidism and clinical or subclinical hyperthyroidism. Patients with pre-existing thyroid dysfunction probably have similar risks of SARS-CoV-2 related adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation of thyroid function is important in COVID-19 patients. Improving the efficacy of treatment against acute SARS-CoV-2 infection can reduce the risks of short-term and long-term complications.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023447994.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Thyroid Diseases/epidemiology/virology/complications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40457666,
year = {2025},
author = {Katasonov, AB},
title = {[Therapeutic potential of quercetin and its derivatives against COVID-19].},
journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova},
volume = {125},
number = {5},
pages = {44-50},
doi = {10.17116/jnevro202512505144},
pmid = {40457666},
issn = {1997-7298},
mesh = {*Quercetin/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Blood-Brain Barrier/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; *Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Antioxidants/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with a wide range of biological activity. This compound does not penetrate the brain well, but under stress, it exhibits neuroprotective properties, probably associated with its effect on the blood-brain barrier (BBB). BBB disruption may be responsible for the invasion of the causative agent of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) into the brain with the development of neurological symptoms. Quercetin can suppress viral replication, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response, as well as prevent the formation of microthrombi. This potential of quercetin may help treat COVID-19 and its long-term sequelae.},
}

*Quercetin/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Blood-Brain Barrier/drug effects
COVID-19
*Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Virus Replication/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Antioxidants/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40457567,
year = {2025},
author = {Marc, A and Schiffer, JT and Mentré, F and Perelson, AS and Guedj, J},
title = {Viral Dynamic Models During COVID-19: Are We Ready for the Next Pandemic?.},
journal = {CPT: pharmacometrics & systems pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/psp4.70055},
pmid = {40457567},
issn = {2163-8306},
abstract = {Mathematical models have been used for about 30 years to improve our understanding of virus-host interaction, in particular during chronic infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these models have been used to provide insights into the natural history of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, optimize antiviral treatment strategies, understand factors associated with transmission, and optimize surveillance systems. The impact of modeling has been accelerated by the availability of unprecedented multidimensional immune data from animal and human systems, which enhanced partnerships between experimentalists and theorists and led to exciting new modeling and statistical developments. In this mini review, we examine the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and discuss the main insights provided by mathematical models of viral dynamics at the different stages of the outbreak. Although we focus on respiratory infection, we also consider the new areas for development in anticipation of future acute infections from new or reemerging pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40457387,
year = {2025},
author = {Moawad, MHED and Abbas, A and Sabet, H and Zanaty, MA and Hamad, AA and Rezkallah, A and Ballut, O and Fayad, T and Elsakka, MM and Eshun, F and Abdelgawad, HAH},
title = {Unveiling protection: a meta-analysis of tixagevimab-cilgavimab prophylaxis in 28,950 transplant recipients and immunocompromised patients against COVID-19.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {178},
pmid = {40457387},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/mortality/immunology ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *Transplant Recipients ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This meta-analysis addresses the efficacy and safety of tixagevimab-cilgavimab as pre-exposure prophylaxis against COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients, particularly during the Omicron variant surge. Given the limited vaccine response in this population, alternative prophylactic strategies are critical.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we comprehensively searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, up to June 22, 2024. We included studies assessing tixagevimab-cilgavimab's impact on SARS-CoV-2 infection rates, hospitalization, ICU admissions, and/or mortality among immunocompromised patients. Data synthesis and analysis were conducted using RevMan and Open-Meta Analyst software.

RESULTS: Analyzing data from 36 studies involving 28,950 patients, tixagevimab-cilgavimab significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection rates by 4.37%, hospitalization by 0.8%, and mortality by 0.5%. Compared to no prophylaxis, the drug combination showed a notable reduction in SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.22-0.50), hospitalization (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.15-0.39), and mortality (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.16-0.66), exhibiting a favorable safety and efficacy profile. During the Omicron surge, tixagevimab-cilgavimab consistently reduced infection risk (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17-0.58).

CONCLUSION: Tixagevimab-cilgavimab offers a significant protective effect against COVID-19, including Omicron variants, in immunocompromised patients, underscoring its role as an effective pre-exposure prophylaxis. Future studies should further explore its efficacy across different SARS-CoV-2 variants and potential synergies with vaccination efforts.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/mortality/immunology
*Immunocompromised Host
*Transplant Recipients
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40457282,
year = {2025},
author = {Umemura, T and Kato, H and Mutoh, Y and Hagihara, M and Ikeda, Y and Mikamo, H},
title = {Safety evaluation of remdesivir administration in patients with severe renal impairment and coronavirus disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {782},
pmid = {40457282},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/complications/mortality ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Renal Insufficiency/drug therapy/complications ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate whether remdesivir (RDV) is safe for patients with severe renal impairment (SRI) and COVID-19, compared to non-SRI patients or those not receiving RDV.

METHODS: This study was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. We searched PubMed, Cohcrane, CINAHL, and Ichushi databases up to October 11, 2024. The outcomes assessed kidney injury, hepatic disorder and mortality. Randomized controlled trials and retrospective and cohort studies reporting kidney injury, hepatotoxicity, and mortality in (i) SRI patients treated with RDV versus without RDV or (ii) SRI patients versus non-SRI patients treated with RDV were included. Targeted patients were defined as adults with COVID-19 based on a positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction or rapid antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 from nasopharyngeal or salivary swabs regardless of symptoms.

RESULTS: One randomized controlled trial and 14 cohort studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final meta-analysis. Among SRI patients, RDV significantly reduced the incidence of kidney injury (risk ratio [RR] = 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.27-0.97) but had no significant difference in the development of hepatic disorder (RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.39-1.98) and mortality (RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.55-1.15). In the comparison between SRI and non-SRI patients treated with RDV, SRI patients demonstrated a significantly higher incidence of kidney injury (odds ratio [OR] = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.49-4.23), with no significant difference in the development of hepatic disorder (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.43-2.53). Meanwhile, SRI patients treated with RDV exhibited significantly higher mortality than non-SRI patients treated with RDV (OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.51-3.22).

CONCLUSION: Our meta-analysis demonstrated that RDV administration in SRI patients with COVID-19 was safe compared to non-SRI or SRI patient treated without RDV. We suggest that the use of RDV should be actively considered for SRI patients.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
COVID-19/complications/mortality
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Renal Insufficiency/drug therapy/complications
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid40456838,
year = {2025},
author = {Cesaro, S and Ljungman, P and Mikulska, M and Hirsch, HH and Navarro, D and Cordonnier, C and Mehra, V and Styczynski, J and Marchesi, F and Pinana, JL and Beutel, G and Einsele, H and Maertens, J and , and de la Camara, R},
title = {Post-pandemic recommendations for the management of COVID-19 in patients with haematological malignancies or undergoing cellular therapy, from the European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia (ECIL-10).},
journal = {Leukemia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40456838},
issn = {1476-5551},
abstract = {In the post-pandemic years, SARS-CoV-2 morbidity and mortality declined due to less pathogenic variants, active and passive immunization, and antiviral therapies. However, patients with hematological malignancies and/or undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remain at increased risk for poor outcomes. Therefore, adherence to contact and droplet precautions is essential to avoid transmission, especially during epidemic waves. Detection of viral RNA by nucleic acid testing of naso-oro-pharyngeal samples is the gold standard for diagnosis due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Direct antigen testing allows for rapid management decisions if positive, but has a low sensitivity, especially in asymptomatic patients. Active immunisation is the key to prevention and may require annual matching to circulating variants. Passive immunization with SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing anti-antibodies lost its indication due to the emergence of immune escape variants. Convalescent plasma has been proposed for passive immunization but is not readily available in most centres. For symptomatic patients, early antiviral treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir or remdesivir may reduce the risk of progression to severe-critical COVID-19. Prolonged administration, repeated courses, and a combination of antivirals are considered for patients with clinical or virological failure to antiviral monotherapy. In severe-critical COVID-19, dexamethasone or drugs downregulating the inflammatory cytokine responses (anti-Il-6/anti-IL-2 agents, Janus kinase inhibitor) are recommended, together with the best supportive and intensive care, but care should be exercised in immunosuppressed patients. Deferral of intensive chemotherapy, HCT conditioning, T-cell-based immunotherapy, or T-cell engaging antibodies are considered for patients with COVID-19, whereas deferral decisions are taken on a case-by-case basis for asymptomatic patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

@article {pmid40454870,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, Z and Xu, YE and Li, JZ and Wang, YT and Song, H and Ao, DS},
title = {Three-dimensional cell culture models in respiratory virus research: technological advances and current applications.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5tb00290g},
pmid = {40454870},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {From the Spanish flu to the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory viruses have inflicted significant damage on the global population. As research into these viruses progresses, so too does the methodology employed. Although traditional in vitro two-dimensional (2D) cell culture techniques and animal models have played crucial roles in our understanding of respiratory viruses and have made significant contributions to research on viral infection mechanisms, as well as the development of drugs and vaccines, they have limitations. Specifically, 2D cell culture models do not accurately simulate the in vivo micro-environment, and animal models may not share the same susceptibility and immune response as humans. Consequently, viral isolation and culture techniques are transitioning towards 3D cell culture technologies. Furthermore, the potential for multi-disciplinary collaborations using 3D cell culture opens new opportunities for personalized medicine. This review will explore the advancement and application of 3D cell culture in respiratory virus research, emphasising the most recent developments and trends in the field. By evaluating the current strengths and limitations of these technologies, we aim to provide insights that will inform future scientific exploration and clinical applications.},
}

@article {pmid40454668,
year = {2025},
author = {Sebastian, S and Nirghin, U and Rampersad, N},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on persons with visual impairment.},
journal = {Clinical & experimental optometry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/08164622.2025.2509595},
pmid = {40454668},
issn = {1444-0938},
abstract = {Vision impairment is a global public health concern affecting 1.1 billion people worldwide. The coronavirus disease or COVID-19 outbreak caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus in 2019 affected many aspects of everyday life and prompted various preventative health measures. Persons with visual impairment face multiple challenges daily, and with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, these challenges were likely worsened. With various studies conducted globally to explore the experiences of persons with visual impairment, this scoping review aims to provide an overview of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on persons with visual impairment within a global context. The five-step framework by Arksey and O'Malley was applied, involving a literature search across nine electronic databases, with specific search terms formulated from the research question. Data were screened for eligibility by the three reviewers using pre-decided study criteria. Of the 263 articles identified from December 2019 to October 2022, 49 were included in this review. More than 80% of the articles were published in the early years of the pandemic (2020 and 2021), and 77.5% of the studies had persons with visual impairment as participants. The themes identified included psychosocial, access to COVID-19 information and technology, healthcare, everyday activities, education, economic situation, adherence to regulations, and support. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the challenges faced by persons with visual impairment, especially those affecting their independence and daily routines. Governments and stakeholders should make more efforts to address the challenges experienced by persons with visual impairment, as this will directly impact their quality of life.},
}

@article {pmid40453691,
year = {2025},
author = {Pourrazavi, S and Fathi, B and Fathifar, Z and Nadrian, H and Allahverdipour, H},
title = {Leveraging Ottawa Charter strategies to enhance COVID-19 vaccination: A systematic review of global health promotion approaches.},
journal = {Health promotion perspectives},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {9-22},
pmid = {40453691},
issn = {2228-6497},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite global vaccination efforts, many countries struggled to achieve sufficient COVID-19 vaccination coverage. The use of Ottawa Charter health promotion strategies in vaccination programs not only enhances coverage but also fosters sustainable public health outcomes. This systematic review aims to identify actionable strategies to improve vaccination efforts.

METHODS: This systematic review involved a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, targeting studies published between January 2020 and August 2024. The search focused on government-led health promotion strategies for enhancing COVID-19 vaccination rates. Strategies were categorized five main areas of the Ottawa Charter for health promotion.

RESULTS: A total of 22 health promotion strategies were identified globally, categorized into five key areas based on the Ottawa Charter for health promotion. Notable strategies included engaging community, addressing misinformation, expanding vaccination sites, and providing culturally tailored communication.

CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the significance of utilizing the Ottawa Charter framework to design inclusive and adaptable public health strategies that ensure equitable vaccination coverage globally.},
}

@article {pmid40453679,
year = {2025},
author = {Elechi, KW and Oyepeju Nkem, O and Timothy Chibueze, N and Elechi, US and Franklin Chimaobi, K},
title = {Long-term Neurological Consequences of COVID-19 in Patients With Pre-existing Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Neuroscience insights},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {26331055251342755},
pmid = {40453679},
issn = {2633-1055},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, has profound systemic effects, including significant impacts on the central nervous system (CNS). Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between SARS-CoV-2-induced neuroinflammation and the exacerbation or initiation of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). This review explores the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to neurodegenerative processes. We first discuss the pathways of viral entry into the CNS, including transneuronal and hematogenous routes, leading to blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. Neuroinflammation, mediated by the activation of microglia and astrocytes and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, is highlighted as a critical factor exacerbating neuronal damage. Oxidative stress and vascular damage are further examined as complementary mechanisms promoting neurodegeneration. In addition, we review how SARS-CoV-2 infection influences proteinopathies by accelerating the aggregation of pathological proteins like alpha-synuclein, tau, and TDP-43, contributing to disease progression in PD, AD, and related disorders. Clinical studies reporting cognitive and motor dysfunctions in post-COVID-19 patients with pre-existing neurodegenerative diseases are also summarized. Finally, this review identifies knowledge gaps and emphasizes the need for further research to clarify the long-term neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate the risk of neurodegeneration in vulnerable populations.},
}

@article {pmid40048334,
year = {2025},
author = {Bucur, AM and Moldovan, AC and Parvatikar, K and Zampieri, M and KhudaBukhsh, AR and Dinu, LP},
title = {On the State of NLP Approaches to Modeling Depression in Social Media: A Post-COVID-19 Outlook.},
journal = {IEEE journal of biomedical and health informatics},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {4439-4451},
doi = {10.1109/JBHI.2025.3540507},
pmid = {40048334},
issn = {2168-2208},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Media ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Natural Language Processing ; *Depression/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Computational approaches to predicting mental health conditions in social media have been substantially explored in the past years. Multiple reviews have been published on this topic, providing the community with comprehensive accounts of the research in this area. Among all mental health conditions, depression is the most widely studied due to its worldwide prevalence. The COVID-19 global pandemic, starting in early 2020, has had a great impact on mental health worldwide. Harsh measures employed by governments to slow the spread of the virus (e.g., lockdowns) and the subsequent economic downturn experienced in many countries have significantly impacted people's lives and mental health. Studies have shown a substantial increase of above 50% in the rate of depression in the population. In this context, we present a review on natural language processing (NLP) approaches to modeling depression in social media, providing the reader with a post-COVID-19 outlook. This review contributes to the understanding of the impacts of the pandemic on modeling depression in social media. We outline how state-of-the-art approaches and new datasets have been used in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, we also discuss ethical issues in collecting and processing mental health data, considering fairness, accountability, and ethics.},
}

Humans
*Social Media
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Natural Language Processing
*Depression/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40453652,
year = {2025},
author = {Pacheco, T and Coulombe, S and Kocovski, NL and Carbone, J},
title = {Workers' well-being during viral pandemics and epidemics: A scoping review.},
journal = {Comprehensive psychoneuroendocrinology},
volume = {22},
number = {},
pages = {100286},
pmid = {40453652},
issn = {2666-4976},
abstract = {Studies have documented workers' well-being during individual pandemics and epidemics. However, there lies a need to summarize worker well-being across crises. Moreover, there is a scarcity of reviews exploring precarious workers' well-being during these crises. Adopting a multidisciplinary perspective via positive psychology's third wave, this scoping review examines positive and negative well-being across diverse occupational groups and situations (e.g., precarious employment) and across crises. Inspired by Ecological Systems Theory, factors at different ecological levels (self, social, workplace, pandemic) relevant to workers' well-being are reviewed. The following questions are addressed: 1) How are virus-related public health crises (i.e., epidemics, pandemics) related to workers' well-being? 2) What resilience and risk factors are associated with workers' well-being in these crises? And 2a) How is the well-being of precarious workers impacted during virus-related public health crises? Of the 2,395 potentially relevant articles published before October 23rd, 2020, 187 were retained. Overall, more research has been conducted on negative than positive well-being. Workers experienced: 1) positive well-being frequently or at moderately high levels overall during pandemics and epidemics, 2) mild to moderate negative well-being during SARS and COVID-19's beginning and high negative well-being during other crises, and 3) high work-related well-being during such crises. Factors at self- (age, gender), social- (social support), workplace- (occupation, frontline status), and pandemic-related (risk/exposure, knowing someone infected/killed by the virus, PPE access) levels were associated with workers' well-being. Although explored infrequently, precarious employment was typically associated with greater negative well-being. Practice- and policy-related recommendations are discussed.},
}

@article {pmid40453305,
year = {2025},
author = {Okazaki, Y and Tsujimoto, Y and Yamada, K and Saka, N and Ariie, T and Taito, S and Banno, M and Kataoka, Y and Watanabe, N},
title = {The Impact of Government Lockdowns on the Mental Health of the General Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e83249},
pmid = {40453305},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Since December 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has spread globally, prompting governments in many countries to implement lockdowns to control the transmission of the virus. Outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, and the associated government lockdowns may have significant negative impacts on mental health. A comprehensive review of the available evidence on this topic can provide useful information for policymakers. This review aimed to assess the effects of government lockdowns on the mental health of the general population during emerging infectious disease outbreaks. On April 11, 2022, we conducted a systematic search of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO Ovid, and two clinical trial registries, supplemented by reference checking and citation searching. We included non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSIs) involving adults and adolescents, regardless of comorbidities, that examined the effects of government-imposed lockdowns compared to no lockdown during outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases, including SARS, MERS, COVID-19, H1N1, equine influenza, avian influenza, and Ebola virus disease. Critical outcomes assessed were depressive symptom severity and suicide, while important outcomes included anxiety symptom severity, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity, insomnia symptom severity, and substance use. We used the ROBINS-I tool to assess the risk of bias and conducted a meta-analysis using a random-effects model. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. We included 42 NRSIs, all conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the 27 studies reporting depressive symptoms, we pooled effect sizes from eight studies. The findings suggest that government lockdowns may have little to no effect on depressive symptom severity within the 12-month follow-up; however, the evidence was very uncertain (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.00, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.09; I[2] = 70%; 11,278 participants). Two studies reported on suicide outcomes, but both had an overall critical risk of bias due to confounding; therefore, we did not synthesize results and judged the evidence as very low certainty. For anxiety symptom severity, we pooled data from five of 20 studies and found that government lockdowns may have little to no effect within the 12-month follow-up (SMD 0.08, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.26; I[2] = 91%; 11,006 participants). Regarding PTSD symptom severity, pooled data from one of two studies suggested that government lockdowns may increase the symptom severity within the 12-month follow-up (MD 0.18, 95% CI 0.08-0.28; 1,754 participants). We pooled data from two of eight studies on insomnia symptom severity and found that government lockdowns may increase the symptom severity within the 12-month follow-up (MD 1.28, 95% CI 0.62-1.94; I[2] = 91%; 5,142 participants). In terms of alcohol use, data pooled from five of nine studies on alcohol use showed that government lockdowns may have little to no effect on alcohol consumption within the 12-month follow-up (SMD 0.03, 95% CI -0.05 to 0.11; I[2] = 66%; 8,261 participants). Overall, the evidence regarding all important outcomes was of very low certainty. At present, the impact of government lockdowns during emerging infectious disease outbreaks on mental health in the general population remains very uncertain. Future research should prioritize well-designed studies to better assess the mental health effects of lockdown measures during novel outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid40453253,
year = {2025},
author = {Boorle, NVLD and Kurra, NC and Gandrakota, N and Modi, K and Sudireddy, K and Irfan, SA and Jain, A and Parikh, PA and Jillella, D},
title = {Central Nervous System Manifestations of Long COVID: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e83247},
pmid = {40453253},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been one of the most widespread and devastating global pandemics, impacting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. After the cessation of active infection, the disease continues to have a disabling impact due to the persistence of fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and depression - among the most common symptoms. This study explores the progression of neurological symptoms over 12 months and beyond following an initial diagnosis of COVID-19. Through an electronic search of eligible studies from PubMed, the Cochrane Trial Register, and Google Scholar, 10 studies were included for qualitative analysis. The systematic review highlights the similarities and differences in findings across the included studies. Olfactory dysfunction was prevalent in 0.9%-51% of individuals, and taste impairment was observed in 1.1%-21.3%. At 12 months, anxiety was more prevalent (3.5%-29%) than depression (3.5%-26%). Fatigue was the predominant neurocognitive complaint in 56% of individuals with severe COVID-19. Nearly half of individuals reported sleep difficulties. Memory impairment, followed by headaches and dizziness, also constitutes neurocognitive symptoms reported at 12 months. Our study found that there is a significant neurological burden one year following the diagnosis of COVID-19. Further studies exploring the pathological mechanisms of long-term COVID-19 are necessary to better delineate the mechanisms behind several long-term neurological manifestations of COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40452530,
year = {2025},
author = {Moghdam, Y and Arghavan, B and Kermani, F and Jeddi, SA and Khojasteh, S and Shokohi, T and Aslani, N and Ebrahimi, A and Javidnia, J},
title = {A fatal post-COVID-19 sino-orbital mucormycosis in an adult patient with diabetes mellitus: a case report and review of the literature.},
journal = {Journal of infection in developing countries},
volume = {19},
number = {5},
pages = {661-668},
doi = {10.3855/jidc.16526},
pmid = {40452530},
issn = {1972-2680},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mucormycosis/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/microbiology ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *COVID-19/complications ; Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; Fatal Outcome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Orbital Diseases/microbiology ; Amphotericin B/therapeutic use ; *Diabetes Complications ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 is associated with a broad spectrum of bacterial and fungal superinfections.

CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of mucormycosis developing during post-COVID-19 therapeutic management. A 63-year-old diabetic female presented with COVID-19 and received combination therapy per institutional protocol, including dexamethasone, remdesivir, and ivermectin. Seven days post-discharge, the patient was readmitted with dyspnea and lethargy. On day 3 of readmission, the patient reported unilateral facial and orbital pain. Subsequent histopathological and mycological examination confirmed mucormycosis. Despite surgical debridement and treatment with amphotericin B (3 mg/kg/day), the patient succumbed to the infection.

RESULTS: Based on ITS rDNA sequencing, the fungus was identified as Rhizopus arrhizus. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed according to the CLSI M38-A2 guideline, yielding minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.016 µg/mL for amphotericin B, 0.031 µg/mL for posaconazole, 0.25 µg/mL for isavuconazole, 1 µg/mL for itraconazole, and 8 µg/mL for voriconazole.

CONCLUSIONS: Early diagnosis, prompt antifungal therapy, and appropriate surgical intervention are critical for improving mucormycosis outcomes, especially in COVID-19 patients.},
}

Humans
*Mucormycosis/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/microbiology
Female
Middle Aged
*COVID-19/complications
Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use
Fatal Outcome
SARS-CoV-2
*Orbital Diseases/microbiology
Amphotericin B/therapeutic use
*Diabetes Complications
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40451590,
year = {2025},
author = {Jarallah, SJ and Almughem, FA and Alhumaid, NK and Fayez, NA and Alradwan, I and Alsulami, KA and Tawfik, EA and Alshehri, AA},
title = {Artificial intelligence revolution in drug discovery: A paradigm shift in pharmaceutical innovation.},
journal = {International journal of pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {125789},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.125789},
pmid = {40451590},
issn = {1873-3476},
abstract = {Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into drug discovery has revolutionized pharmaceutical innovation, addressing the challenges of traditional methods that are costly, time-consuming, and suffer from high failure rates. By utilizing machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and natural language processing (NLP), AI enhances various stages of drug development, including target identification, lead optimization, de novo drug design, and drug repurposing. AI tools, such as AlphaFold for protein structure prediction and AtomNet for structure-based drug design, have significantly accelerated the discovery process, improved efficiency and reduced costs. Success stories like Insilico Medicine's AI-designed molecule for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and BenevolentAI's identification of baricitinib for COVID-19 highlight AI's transformative potential. Additionally, AI enables the exploration of vast chemical spaces, optimization of clinical trials, and the identification of novel therapeutic targets, paving the way for precision medicine. However, challenges such as limited data accessibility, integration of diverse datasets, interpretability of AI models, and ethical concerns remain critical hurdles. Overcoming these limitations through enhanced algorithms, standardized databases, and interdisciplinary collaboration is essential. Overall, AI continues to reshape drug discovery, reducing timelines, increasing success rates, and driving the development of innovative and accessible therapies for unmet medical needs.},
}

@article {pmid40450230,
year = {2025},
author = {Leung, WKC and Yau, CYC and Lam, SC},
title = {Facilitators, barriers, and recommendations for mobile health applications among Chinese older populations: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC geriatrics},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {396},
pmid = {40450230},
issn = {1471-2318},
support = {CRG2023/01//Tung Wah College/ ; CRG2023/01//Tung Wah College/ ; },
mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; China ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Mobile Applications ; *Telemedicine ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mobile health (mHealth) applications have become indispensable in people's daily lives and are now incorporated into a multitude of healthcare services. However, due to inappropriate designs and ineffective promotional strategies, the rates of uptake and continued use of mHealth applications in older adults are usually low. Given that recent evidence has reported distinct mHealth adoption patterns between Chinese and non-Chinese populations, the aim of this scoping review was to map relevant evidence on the end-user perceptions and age-appropriate recommendations for interface design, persuasive features, and promotional strategies among Chinese older adults.

METHODS: All primary studies conducted in Chinese older people aged 60 + years, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research, examining end-user perceptions (e.g., motivators, barriers, and design) of mHealth applications were considered eligible for inclusion. Four electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Medline) were searched from their inceptions through 31 May 2024. A narrative approach was adopted for data analyses relevant to the study aim.

RESULTS: A total of 23 studies (n = 8,203) were included. End-user perceptions (facilitators and barriers) of older people were narratively synthesized according to the socio-ecological model (individual/product, interpersonal, community, and societal). In Chinese deaf and hard-of-hearing older adults, the lack of proficiency in mastering operations of smartphone, Internet, and mHealth applications greatly jeopardized their communication with family or friends, accessibility to online medical consultations, and access to public places amidst COVID-19 pandemic. Recommended interface designs were categorized into various aspects of functional impairments (vision, manual dexterity, and cognition) of elderly users. Seven promotional strategies were also highlighted, whereas more than half of the studies recommended education measures (e.g., personalized family/peer- or health professional-led training program) and technical support (e.g., face-to-face instructions, detailed manual instructions, and timely consultation services). Other recommendations included increased publicity, co-creation, and supportive government policies.

CONCLUSION: This review synthesizes the existing relevant evidence and hence provides age-friendly recommendations for interface designs, persuasive features, and promotional strategies in Chinese older populations. Overall, this study empirically offers actionable guidelines for mHealth developers to meet the multifaceted needs of older people.},
}

Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Humans
Middle Aged
China
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Mobile Applications
*Telemedicine
East Asian People

@article {pmid40450224,
year = {2025},
author = {Skront, T and Sagan, J and Hyza, M},
title = {Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a patient with COVID-19 and the possible role of SARS-CoV-2 in its manifestation: case report and overview of published cases.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {557},
pmid = {40450224},
issn = {1471-244X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Adult ; *COVID-19/complications ; Male ; *Schizophrenia/drug therapy/complications ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Olanzapine/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The manifestation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is more complex than that of pulmonary infection, and neuropsychiatric symptoms play a role in this complexity. In this paper, we present the case of a 29-year-old schizophrenic patient who suffered from neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) that developed during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, with an emphasis on the possible connection between these two conditions. Additionally, we provide an overview of published NMS cases in patients with COVID-19 or after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 29-year-old patient treated for schizophrenia, treated with paliperidone palmitate (150 mg every four weeks) and cariprazine (6 mg daily), was admitted to the hospital for agitation and aggressivity; shortly after arrival at the hospital, laryngospasm and hypoxia occurred. The patient tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, and later, he developed pneumonia. During hospitalization, olanzapine (20 mg daily) was added to his regimen. However, due to continuing restlessness, haloperidol was administered (20 mg over the course of one day). A few days later, neuroleptic malignant syndrome occurred. He was treated with bromocriptine (15 mg daily) and clonazepam (2 mg daily) and recovered.

CONCLUSIONS: As SARS-CoV-2 is known to interact with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and DOPA-decarboxylase is known to be coexpressed with this receptor, we hypothesized that COVID-19 infection might play a substantial role in the development of NMS.},
}

Humans
*Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis
Adult
*COVID-19/complications
Male
*Schizophrenia/drug therapy/complications
Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
Olanzapine/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40449975,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, AK and Goel, K and Dhanawat, M},
title = {Plasmid DNA and mRNA delivery: Approaches and challenges.},
journal = {Advances in immunology},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {63-87},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ai.2024.12.001},
pmid = {40449975},
issn = {1557-8445},
mesh = {Humans ; *Plasmids/genetics/administration & dosage ; *RNA, Messenger/genetics/administration & dosage/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccines, DNA/immunology/genetics/administration & dosage ; Animals ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics ; *Gene Transfer Techniques ; Genetic Therapy/methods ; *DNA/genetics/administration & dosage ; Nanoparticles ; },
abstract = {for delivery of plasmid DNA and mRNA transform biology and medicine, offering powerful tools for gene therapy, vaccine development, cancer immunotherapy, and regenerative medicine. Plasmid DNA provides a relatively stable and sustained expression of the genes which also provides the basic groundwork for long-lasting therapeutic. At the same time, mRNA has also demonstrated more appropriateness for dynamic and time-sensitive applications due to its short-lived and accurate translation capabilities, such as during the development of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. Despite their unique advantages, however, the efficient delivery of these biomolecules poses challenges including immune system activation, enzymatic degradation, and limited cellular uptake. The structural and functional features of plasmid DNA and mRNA highlighted the positive functions that underpin their complementary roles in next-generation biomedical applications. In addition, it highlights the novel delivery routes across lipid nanoparticles, polymeric systems, biomimetic carriers, and hybrid applied sciences which can resolve long-standing challenges to efficient distribution. Emerging technologies such as CRISPR gene editing, self-amplifying RNA, and multiplexed nanoparticles are also increasing the utility of these systems. Significant advances in the delivery of plasmid DNA and mRNA molecules have revolutionized vaccine development, opened new avenues in personalized medicine, and have also inspired a future with engineerable tissues. As these innovations develop, they are predicted to go beyond current limitations and bring around a fresh era of accurate medication taking on one of the global healthcare's most complex challenges. Our revolutionary delivery methods provide stability and simplicity, transforming medical advances.},
}

Humans
*Plasmids/genetics/administration & dosage
*RNA, Messenger/genetics/administration & dosage/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccines, DNA/immunology/genetics/administration & dosage
Animals
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics
*Gene Transfer Techniques
Genetic Therapy/methods
*DNA/genetics/administration & dosage
Nanoparticles

@article {pmid40449972,
year = {2025},
author = {Prabhakar, PK and Upadhyay, TK and Sahu, SK},
title = {mRNA-based cancer vaccines: A novel approach to melanoma treatment.},
journal = {Advances in immunology},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {117-162},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ai.2024.10.010},
pmid = {40449972},
issn = {1557-8445},
mesh = {Humans ; *Melanoma/therapy/immunology ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; *Skin Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; Animals ; Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics ; COVID-19/immunology ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; },
abstract = {Malignant melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer and a leading cause of death from skin tumors. With the rising incidence of melanoma diagnoses, there is an urgent need to develop effective treatments. Among the most modern approaches are cancer vaccines, which aim to enhance cell-mediated immunity. Recently, mRNA-based cancer vaccines have gained significant attention due to their rapid production, low manufacturing costs, and ability to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses. These vaccines hold great potential in melanoma treatment, yet their application faces several challenges, including mRNA stabilization, delivery methods, and tumor heterogeneity. The recent success of mRNA vaccines in combating COVID-19 has renewed interest in their potential for cancer immunotherapy. In particular, mRNA cancer vaccines offer high specificity and better efficacy compared to traditional treatments. They can target tumor-specific neoantigens, prompting a robust immune response. This chapter reviews the mechanism of action of mRNA vaccines, advancements in adjuvant identification, and innovations in delivery systems such as lipid nanoparticles. It also discusses ongoing clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of mRNA-based vaccines in melanoma, highlighting promising early-phase results. Despite their potential, the development of mRNA cancer vaccines faces significant obstacles. Tumor heterogeneity, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments, and practical issues like vaccine administration and clinical evaluation methods are major barriers to success. By addressing these challenges and advancing innovations, mRNA cancer vaccines hold promise for transforming melanoma treatment. A careful balance between the opportunities and challenges will be key to unlocking the full potential of mRNA vaccines in cancer immunotherapy.},
}

Humans
*Melanoma/therapy/immunology
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics
*Immunotherapy/methods
*Skin Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
Animals
Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics
COVID-19/immunology
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology

@article {pmid40368635,
year = {2025},
author = {Flores, CV and Chan, SY},
title = {Therapeutic targets for pulmonary arterial hypertension: insights into the emerging landscape.},
journal = {Expert opinion on therapeutic targets},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {327-343},
pmid = {40368635},
issn = {1744-7631},
support = {R01 HL124021/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL151228/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/drug therapy/physiopathology ; Animals ; *Molecular Targeted Therapy ; Vascular Remodeling/drug effects ; Drug Development ; Disease Progression ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Ventricular Dysfunction, Right/physiopathology/etiology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive, life-threatening disease driven by vascular remodeling, right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, and metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation. Current therapies primarily target vasodilation to relieve symptoms but do not reverse disease progression. The recent approval of sotatercept, which modulates BMP/TGF-β signaling, marks a shift toward anti-remodeling therapies. Building on this, recent preclinical advances have identified promising therapeutic targets and potentially disease-modifying treatments.

AREAS COVERED: This review synthesizes the evolving preclinical landscape of emerging PAH therapeutic targets and drugs, highlighting innovative approaches aimed at addressing the underlying mechanisms of disease progression. Additionally, we discuss novel therapeutic strategies under development.

EXPERT OPINION: Recent advances in PAH research have identified novel therapeutic targets beyond vasodilators, including modulation of BMP/TGF-β signaling, metabolic programs, epigenetics, cancer-related signaling, the extracellular matrix, and immune pathways, among others. Sotatercept represents a significant advance in therapies that go beyond vasodilation, and long-term safety, efficacy, and durability are being assessed. Future treatment strategies will focus on precision approaches, noninvasive technologies, and regenerative biology to improve outcomes and reverse vascular remodeling.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/drug therapy/physiopathology
Animals
*Molecular Targeted Therapy
Vascular Remodeling/drug effects
Drug Development
Disease Progression
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Ventricular Dysfunction, Right/physiopathology/etiology/drug therapy

@article {pmid40050182,
year = {2025},
author = {Worapongpaiboon, R and Siranart, N and Pajareya, P and Phutinart, S},
title = {Inflammatory markers in predicting survival in pancreatic cancer: A Systematic review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Pancreatology : official journal of the International Association of Pancreatology (IAP) ... [et al.]},
volume = {25},
number = {3},
pages = {385-395},
doi = {10.1016/j.pan.2025.02.014},
pmid = {40050182},
issn = {1424-3911},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pancreatic Neoplasms/mortality/blood/diagnosis/pathology ; Prognosis ; Neutrophils ; *Inflammation/blood ; Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/mortality ; Lymphocytes ; Biomarkers, Tumor/blood ; Lymphocyte Count ; Platelet Count ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Determining an accurate prognosis for pancreatic cancer (PC) can pose significant challenges. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) has been used as prognostic factors to predict outcomes in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. This study aims to reveal the prognostic value of NLR and PLR on survival outcomes and risk of metastasis in PC.

METHODS: NLR and PLR was investigated for its potential to predict survival outcomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). For pancreatic cystic neoplasm (PCN), we investigated the potential for inflammatory markers to predict malignancy. Subgroup analysis was performed for tumor resectability, marker cut-off value (COV), and conducted location. Hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) were pooled and analyzed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: A total of 105 studies included with a total of 20,138 patients. In PDAC, elevated NLR levels were significantly associated with poorer outcomes of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in multivariable analysis (HR 1.79, 1.74, and 1.91, respectively). Similarly, elevated PLR levels in PDAC were also associated with poorer OS and RFS in multivariable analysis (HR 1.33 and 1.94), respectively. For PNET, NLR was significantly associated with OS and RFS in multivariable analysis (HR 2.57 and 3.05, respectively). Furthermore, NLR and PLR show significant association with malignancy in PCN (OR 3.07 and HR 2.42, respectively).

CONCLUSION: NLR and PLR effectively predicted PC outcomes and hold potential for evaluating therapeutic responses and identifying candidates for additional treatment strategies in advanced disease.},
}

Humans
*Pancreatic Neoplasms/mortality/blood/diagnosis/pathology
Prognosis
Neutrophils
*Inflammation/blood
Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/mortality
Lymphocytes
Biomarkers, Tumor/blood
Lymphocyte Count
Platelet Count

@article {pmid40036046,
year = {2025},
author = {Gormley, MA and Moschella, P and Pham, T and Callicott, V and Jardim, K and Madden, A and Wampler, WR and Schwerin, D and Shukla, S and Miramontes, DA and Bailes, P and Litwin, AH and Floyd, SB and Beltran, GW},
title = {Implementation Barriers of Prehospital Buprenorphine Administration Programs in the United States: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Prehospital emergency care},
volume = {29},
number = {4},
pages = {441-449},
doi = {10.1080/10903127.2025.2470965},
pmid = {40036046},
issn = {1545-0066},
mesh = {Humans ; *Buprenorphine/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; United States ; *Emergency Medical Services/organization & administration/methods ; *Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy ; *Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage ; *Analgesics, Opioid/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Prehospital buprenorphine administration programs (PBAPs) have spread throughout the United States (U.S.) with limited information on their locations or barriers to implementation, posing challenges to emergency medical services (EMS) systems adopting this clinical care model. This scoping review identifies where current PBAPs operate and summarizes commonly reported barriers to PBAP implementation.

METHODS: State Offices of EMS were contacted by phone and email and asked if PBAPs operated within the state. After three failed attempts, representative physicians from remaining states were queried through the National Association of EMS Physicians' state membership. Four databases identified PBAPs from manuscripts, popular media, and conference proceedings from each database's inception to 8/25/2024. Programs were included if EMS clinicians administered buprenorphine. Data extraction from academic manuscripts, popular media, and conference proceedings included PBAP location, personnel, protocols, and implementation barriers. Results were reported utilizing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.

RESULTS: Nineteen states and Washington D.C. reported at least one PBAP, 28 reported none, 3 were pending implementation. Of 977 identified titles, 17 met inclusion criteria. Seven media articles, 4 conference presentations, 3 cohort studies, 2 case series, and 1 scoping review yielded data on 13 unique PBAPs within 8 states. Most PBAPs delivered buprenorphine via 9-1-1 paramedics (61.5%) during an EMS response, or by community paramedics (46.1%) within 24-48 h of an EMS response to a patient who experienced an overdose. Five (33.3%) PBAPs reported at least one patient-related barrier to PBAP implementation, including reasons buprenorphine was not administered, lack of treatment access, and patient loss of follow-up. Four programs reported operational-level barriers, including in-person restrictions due to COVID-19, siloing of outpatient services, lack of outpatient service options, inconsistent education of PBAP staff, inconsistent application of PBAP protocols by EMS clinicians, high turnover, and difficulty procuring buprenorphine.

CONCLUSIONS: Whereas 19 states in the U.S. and Washington D.C. reported having at least one PBAP, few are reported in literature, and very few report barriers to PBAP implementation. Developing consensus on metrics assessing PBAP implementation is necessary to inform EMS agencies implementing these novel programs throughout the U.S.},
}

Humans
*Buprenorphine/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
United States
*Emergency Medical Services/organization & administration/methods
*Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy
*Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage
*Analgesics, Opioid/administration & dosage

@article {pmid39593235,
year = {2025},
author = {Fauci, AS and Folkers, GK},
title = {HIV/AIDS and COVID-19: Shared Lessons From 2 Pandemics.},
journal = {Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America},
volume = {80},
number = {5},
pages = {1074-1079},
doi = {10.1093/cid/ciae585},
pmid = {39593235},
issn = {1537-6591},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *HIV Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control/transmission ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/epidemiology ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {The global experiences with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemics hold important lessons for preparing for, and responding to, future outbreaks of emerging or reemerging infectious diseases. Scores of infectious diseases have emerged or reemerged over the past 4 decades, and future outbreaks are inevitable. The next emerging pathogen likely will again come from unanticipated sources and pose puzzles in terms of microbiology, transmission, natural history, pathogenesis, and epidemiology, and will present challenges to developing countermeasures such as diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Although dozens of lessons could be addressed, 8 selected lessons common to HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 are addressed here. Consideration of the commonality of lessons learned from HIV/AIDS and COVID-19, the 2 most devastating pandemics over the past half century, will help us-and those who follow us-to minimize the impact of future outbreaks and prevent them from becoming global pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*HIV Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control/transmission
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/epidemiology
Global Health

@article {pmid39234905,
year = {2025},
author = {Maideen, NMP and Al Rashid, S},
title = {Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir)-Induced Tacrolimus Toxicity in Organ Transplant Recipients - A Review on Drug Interactions Involving CYP3A Enzymes.},
journal = {Current drug safety},
volume = {20},
number = {3},
pages = {291-302},
pmid = {39234905},
issn = {2212-3911},
mesh = {*Tacrolimus/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics ; Humans ; *Ritonavir/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics/administration & dosage ; *Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A/metabolism ; Drug Interactions ; *Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors/adverse effects ; COVID-19 ; Transplant Recipients ; *Organ Transplantation ; Drug Combinations ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) is the first oral therapy approved by the US FDA to treat patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: Our current review focuses on clinical data related to tacrolimus toxicity induced by Paxlovid currently available.

METHODS: A number of online databases, including LitCovid, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, EBSCO host, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and the reference lists were searched to identify articles related to Paxlovid-induced tacrolimus toxicity, using keywords, like drug interactions, Paxlovid, ritonavir, nirmatrelvir, tacrolimus, pharmacokinetic interactions, and CYP3A.

RESULTS: Tacrolimus is a substrate of CYP3A enzymes and ritonavir of Paxlovid has been identified as a potent inhibitor of CYP3A enzymes. Hence, Paxlovid can inhibit the CYP3A-mediated metabolism of tacrolimus, resulting in elevated plasma concentrations of tacrolimus and toxicity.

CONCLUSION: A number of case reports and case series have been published to highlight the association of Paxlovid and tacrolimus toxicity in transplant recipients with COVID-19 infection. Various recommendations have been proposed to prevent and mitigate the adverse events related to the DDI of Paxlovid and tacrolimus. Transplant physicians should be aware of this DDI and collaborate with clinical pharmacists on this issue.},
}

*Tacrolimus/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics
Humans
*Ritonavir/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics/administration & dosage
*Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A/metabolism
Drug Interactions
*Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors/adverse effects
COVID-19
Transplant Recipients
*Organ Transplantation
Drug Combinations
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40449348,
year = {2025},
author = {Viviani, L and Vecchio, R and Pariani, E and Sandri, L and Binda, S and Ammoni, E and Cereda, D and Carducci, A and Pellegrinelli, L and Odone, A},
title = {Wastewater-based epidemiology of influenza viruses: a systematic review.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {986},
number = {},
pages = {179706},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179706},
pmid = {40449348},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a valuable public health tool for monitoring the circulation of many pathogens, including influenza viruses (IVs). The general aim of this study is to systematically retrieve and summarize evidence on the use of WBE for supporting influenza surveillance. Specific objectives are: (i) to map influenza monitoring activities using WBE; (ii) to assess the performance of viral recovery methods; (iii) to explore association with clinical data; (iv) to evaluate the feasibility of typing/subtyping IVs directly from wastewater.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines, focusing on original data from peer-reviewed studies identified through PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science.

RESULTS: Of 882 identified citations, 42 studies were included in the review. IVs detection was reported in all but one study, although typically at lower concentration than SARS-CoV-2. Thirteen studies (38.09 %) performed comparative analysis of different protocols, with mostly inconclusive results. Detection of IVs in the solid fraction of wastewater samples generally outperformed detection in the supernatant/liquid. Additionally, we describe the findings from 22 studies (52.38 %) that examined the link between environmental viral concentrations and clinical data, and 14 studies (33.33 %) that described IVs subtyping in wastewater.

CONCLUSION: WBE has the potential to monitor influenza circulation in humans and animals, offering insights into outbreak size and circulating IVs subtypes. However, several key areas remain unexplored. Further research is needed to refine experimental techniques and standardize protocols, and to understand how to successfully integrate WBE data into public health strategies for influenza control.},
}

@article {pmid40447511,
year = {2025},
author = {Thibon, C and Vecellio, L and Dubus, JC and Reychler, G},
title = {[Does nebulization present a risk of viral transmission? A narrative review].},
journal = {Revue des maladies respiratoires},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.rmr.2025.04.005},
pmid = {40447511},
issn = {1776-2588},
abstract = {Nebulization is a commonly applied therapy for patients with respiratory conditions, encompassing those infected with respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza and RSV. Since the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, concerns have arisen regarding the release into the environment of airborne particles during nebulization. While this treatment is known to expose healthcare workers to drug particles, the risk of viral dispersion remains poorly documented in the literature. The following narrative review explores this risk with the aim of fostering discussions and recommendations, the objectives being to minimize airborne contamination risk for healthcare workers during future epidemics, and in the management of seasonal viruses.},
}

@article {pmid40447142,
year = {2025},
author = {Vreeman, ECA and Pillay, J and Burgess, JK},
title = {Post-COVID pulmonary sequelae: Mechanisms and potential targets to reduce persistent fibrosis.},
journal = {Pharmacology & therapeutics},
volume = {272},
number = {},
pages = {108891},
doi = {10.1016/j.pharmthera.2025.108891},
pmid = {40447142},
issn = {1879-016X},
abstract = {After the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, the emergence of long-term sequelae post-infection poses a new healthcare challenge. Following initial infection with SARS-CoV-2, approximately 1 in 10 people experience post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), also known as long COVID. PASC can affect the entire body, with the airways and lungs being a primary target of the initial viral infection. Many post-COVID symptoms have been associated with fibrotic lung lesions and diminished respiratory function. The reversibility, persistence, or progression of post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis is still a topic of debate. We aimed to compare current findings and examined similar viral infections from the past, to increase understanding of prevalence, persistence and possible pharmacological targets of post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis. Recent studies have documented PASC symptoms persisting up to 3 years post-recovery, and lung impairments present after 15 years after infection with the similar SARS-CoV virus in 2003. These findings suggest the potential for long-term pulmonary fibrosis following SARS-CoV-2 infection, highlighting the need for new anti-fibrotic treatments capable of reversing pulmonary fibrosis. Besides the approved anti-fibrotics, pirfenidone and nintedanib, other promising treatments include histone deacetylase inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers and mesenchymal stem cells. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis are still incompletely understood, necessitating future research to clarify the development of persistent post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Given the widespread transmission of SARS-CoV-2, even a low prevalence of persistent post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis would represent a significant public health concern for which therapeutic strategies are essential to identify.},
}

@article {pmid40446698,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, F and Wen, G},
title = {Strategies for combating FIPV infection: antiviral agents and vaccines.},
journal = {Research in veterinary science},
volume = {192},
number = {},
pages = {105709},
doi = {10.1016/j.rvsc.2025.105709},
pmid = {40446698},
issn = {1532-2661},
abstract = {Feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV) is a deadly virus that causes feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in cats. FIP is a biotype of feline coronavirus (FCoV). Currently, the prevention and treatment of FIPV is challenged by the absence of adequate clinical treatment drugs and vaccines that offer strong immune protection complicated. In this review, we analyse and explain how small-molecule inhibitors function to protect against viral infections. Additionally, we highlight the challenges and future possibilities in developing FIPV vaccines, which are crucial for enhancing FIPV treatment and creating viable vaccine solution strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40446293,
year = {2025},
author = {Senek, M and Drummond, D and Pinnock, H and Hansen, K and Ankolekar, A and O'Connor, Ú and Gonsard, A and Mazulov, O and Sreter, KB and Thornton, C and Powell, P},
title = {Impact of Digital Health on Patient-Provider Relationships in Respiratory Secondary Care Based on Qualitative and Quantitative Evidence: Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e70970},
doi = {10.2196/70970},
pmid = {40446293},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Telemedicine ; *Secondary Care ; *Professional-Patient Relations ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Qualitative Research ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital health technology adoption has accelerated in respiratory care, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting various applications from self-management to telerehabilitation. While these technologies have transformed health care delivery, their impact on the patient-provider relationship in specialist respiratory care remains poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to systematically review the literature on the impact of digital health technology on the patient-provider relationship in respiratory secondary care settings and to understand the factors that enhance or diminish this relationship.

METHODS: In December 2023, we conducted a systematic review following Cochrane methodology, searching MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane databases, and PsycINFO. We included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies examining digital health interventions in respiratory secondary care. Trained volunteers from the European Respiratory Society CONNECT Clinical Research Collaboration performed screening and data extraction. We conducted a qualitative meta-synthesis of findings, followed by an abductive quantitative data analysis. A total of 3 stakeholder workshops were held to interpret findings collaboratively with patients and health care professionals.

RESULTS: From 15,779 papers screened, 97 met the inclusion criteria (55 qualitative/mixed-methods studies, 42 quantitative studies). Studies covered various respiratory conditions, including COPD (32%), asthma (26%), and COVID-19 (13%). Four main themes emerged: trust (foundational to the relationship), adoption factors (including clinical context and implementation drivers), confidence in technology (based on functionality and the evidence base), and connection (encompassing communication and a caring presence). Digital health technology can either enhance or diminish trust between patients and clinicians, with patients' perceptions of the motivations behind its implementation being crucial. While technology facilitated access and communication, remote consultations risked depersonalisation, particularly when not balanced with in-person interactions. Self-monitoring and access to information empowered patients and promoted more equitable patient-provider relationships.

CONCLUSIONS: Digital health technology can either strengthen or weaken patient-provider relationships in respiratory care, with effects impacted by adoption factors, confidence in technology, connection, and patient empowerment. Maintaining trust in the era of digital care requires transparent implementation of motivations, consideration of individual circumstances, and reliable technology that supports rather than replaces the therapeutic relationship.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024493664; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024493664.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Telemedicine
*Secondary Care
*Professional-Patient Relations
SARS-CoV-2
Qualitative Research
Digital Health

@article {pmid40444574,
year = {2025},
author = {Nakaike, T and Nguyen, DA and Makram, AM and Elsheikh, R and Hassani, M and Reda, A and Trieu, MDT and Huy, NT and Hirayama, K},
title = {The Impact of the COVID-19 on Physical Violence, Sexual Violence and Neglect Against Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Child: care, health and development},
volume = {51},
number = {4},
pages = {e70105},
doi = {10.1111/cch.70105},
pmid = {40444574},
issn = {1365-2214},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Child Abuse/statistics & numerical data ; *Child Abuse, Sexual/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Physical Abuse/statistics & numerical data ; Prevalence ; *Sex Offenses/statistics & numerical data ; Male ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 caused the interruption of child protection services and economic/psychological burdens on parents. Therefore, in this systematic review and meta-analysis (SR/MA), we aimed to identify the impact of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic on physical and sexual violence and neglect against children by investigating the change in the prevalence of these events before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: The protocol of this study was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42022377660. We included any studies eligible for meta-analysis comparing physical and sexual violence and neglect against children before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eleven electronic databases were systematically searched in March 2022. The meta-analysis was conducted using STATA, pooled odds ratios were calculated and subgroups by countries and sex of children (when possible) were analysed.

RESULTS: A total of 11 publications were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, we found no significant evidence to support that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the prevalence or proportion of the three types of violence against children, even after segregating the data to the country or sex levels.

CONCLUSION: Overall, our analysis revealed no significant change in physical and sexual violence, as well as neglect against children before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the majority of data sources being hospital records and child protection services. More self-reported studies should be performed, especially in low- and middle-income countries, for a better understanding of child abuse and neglect around the world.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Child Abuse/statistics & numerical data
*Child Abuse, Sexual/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
*Physical Abuse/statistics & numerical data
Prevalence
*Sex Offenses/statistics & numerical data
Male
Female

@article {pmid40443361,
year = {2025},
author = {Spicuzza, L and Attinà, A and Bignamini, E and Cilla, M and De Bortoli, J and Di Michele, L and Foresi, A and Malorgio, E and Marino, L and Rocca, A and Toraldo, DM and Sanna, A},
title = {Telemedicine in the Management of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Evidence from the Literature and Practical Issues. A Consensus Document from the Task Force for Telemedicine in Respiratory Diseases, Part of the Italian Society of Telemedicine.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/tmj.2024.0573},
pmid = {40443361},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a high prevalent condition associated with relevant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, determining the consume of a great amount of health care resources. Diagnosis and treatment of OSA are generally performed in OSA Units (OUs). However, although the large expansion of OUs in western countries, these still fail to cope with the increasing number of patients requiring care. Since long time, well before the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine (TM) has been explored as a tool to monitor both physiological parameters during sleep and treatment outcomes. Recently, the availability of wireless data transmission technology and new TM solutions has given an impetus to the spread of TM services. Nowadays, these find application throughout the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with OSA and the management of these patients is recognized as the most promising TM application among chronic disorders. A Task Force of experts in respiratory diseases, within the Italian Society of Telemedicine, has recently produced a document on distance management of OSA. Here, we present a revision of literature discussed by the TF and the document produced focusing on how to integrate TM services into the traditional routine care of patients with OSA.},
}

@article {pmid40443291,
year = {2025},
author = {Joseph, MM and P, S and Arya, JS and Nair, JB},
title = {Bridging pandemic and oncology challenges: Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy in the fight against COVID-19 and cancer.},
journal = {Science progress},
volume = {108},
number = {2},
pages = {368504251342977},
pmid = {40443291},
issn = {2047-7163},
mesh = {*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods ; Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/epidemiology ; *Neoplasms/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Pandemics ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {While Raman spectroscopy itself stands on the principle of inelastic scattering of light, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) amplifies those normally rather weak Raman signals by way of interactions between molecules and nanostructured metal surfaces. The technique has rapidly evolved into a very powerful analytical tool with enormous potential in combating cancer and COVID-19. SERS is a useful tool for diagnostics and treatment monitoring because of its remarkable sensitivity and ability to detect low-abundance molecules; nevertheless, standardizing techniques, guaranteeing reproducibility across several platforms, and overcoming problems related to signal enhancement and sensitivity under different experimental conditions remain challenges. SERS is also being explored about the COVID-19 pandemic, where its high sensitivity and specificity hold a promise in diagnostics, treatment monitoring, and even environmental tracing of the virus. When it comes to treatment, SERS-based theragnostic applications offer a two-pronged approach by combining therapeutic interventions with diagnostic capabilities that would make different therapies more accurate and effective. Approaches to SERS-guided drug delivery systems are discussed that would allow the drug to reach exactly where the antiviral agent is wanted, hence reducing side effects and enhancing treatment outcomes. Other approaches examined, including nanoparticle-based SERS for targeted therapy and the design of SERS tags, allow therapy and develop new ways of treatment against this virus. Finally, potential future developments of SERS technology and its wider applications in cancer and virology are discussed, with a specific view on the impact SERS might have on how infectious diseases are treated. In addition to discussing its present and potential uses, this narrative review emphasizes the critical role that SERS plays in developing and tracking cancer and COVID-19 treatments.},
}

*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/epidemiology
*Neoplasms/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Pandemics
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Drug Delivery Systems/methods
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid40443190,
year = {2025},
author = {Ravichandran, N and Dillon, E and McCombe, G and Sietins, E and Broughan, J and O' Connor, K and Gulati, G and Frawley, T and Kelly, BD and Guérandel, A and Osborne, B and Cullen, W},
title = {Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders in General Practice from 2014 to 2024: A literature review and discussion paper.},
journal = {Irish journal of psychological medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-8},
doi = {10.1017/ipm.2025.24},
pmid = {40443190},
issn = {2051-6967},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many consultations in primary care involve patients with mental health problems, and primary care is typically the place where many such patients initially seek help. While considerable research has examined the prevalence of mental health disorders in primary care, relatively few papers have examined this issue in recent years. This study aims to address this gap by reviewing contemporary literature from 2014 to 2024 on the prevalence of mental health disorders among general practice patients.

METHODS: A comprehensive search across PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar was conducted, adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for article selection and assessment, examining the prevalence of mental health disorders in general practice.

RESULTS: Studies varied in methodologies and healthcare settings, with reported prevalence rates of mental health disorders ranging from 2.4% to 56.3%. Demographic characteristics (female gender, older age) were associated with a higher prevalence of mental health disorders in the studies identified. Studies based on patient interviews reported broader prevalence (2.4-56.3%) compared to studies using electronic medical record reviews (12-38%). Prevalence also varied between countries. Notably, there has been a lack of post-COVID-19 studies, especially within Europe, examining the prevalence of mental health prevalence in primary care.

CONCLUSIONS: Mental health problems are still common among patients attending general practice; the approach to data collection (i.e., prospective interviews with patients), female gender and older age appear to be correlates of higher estimates. Further research involving a large-scale study with multiple sites is a priority.},
}

@article {pmid40145810,
year = {2025},
author = {Donohue, C and Raye, K and Pandharipande, P and Dittus, RS and Ely, EW},
title = {A Systematic Review of the Prevalence and Characteristics of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Critically Ill Patients During the Acute and Postacute Recovery Phase.},
journal = {Critical care medicine},
volume = {53},
number = {6},
pages = {e1292-e1302},
doi = {10.1097/CCM.0000000000006669},
pmid = {40145810},
issn = {1530-0293},
mesh = {Humans ; *Deglutition Disorders/epidemiology/etiology ; *Critical Illness ; Prevalence ; COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of oropharyngeal dysphagia in critically ill adults during acute and postacute care settings.

DATA SOURCES: This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO and used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Five electronic databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Embase) from the time of inception to September 2024 using search terms: dysphagia, deglutition disorders, swallowing disorders, sepsis, postintensive care syndrome, COVID-19, critical illness.

STUDY SELECTION: Independent review of articles was conducted by two raters using four inclusion criteria: 1) adults older than 18 years; 2) diagnosis of COVID-19, sepsis, critical illness, or ostintensive care syndrome and dysphagia; 3) underwent clinical swallow evaluation; and 4) in acute or postacute care setting.

DATA EXTRACTION: Two raters independently assessed levels of research evidence and risk of bias using the Oxford center for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence and the Modified Downs and Black Checklist and extracted demographics, study design, dysphagia assessment methods, outcomes, and comorbidities.

DATA SYNTHESIS: After removing duplicates, 5058 articles were identified and 4844 screened out based on title/abstract. Full-text review was completed for 214 articles, and 51 met inclusion. Prevalence of dysphagia ranged from 15% to 100%. Dysphagia persisted in up to 74% of individuals at hospital discharge and up to 22% of patients 10 to 17 months posthospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to study design limitations, high risk of bias, and heterogeneity in methods/outcomes, firm conclusions cannot be drawn. However, current data suggest a high prevalence of dysphagia in critically ill adults who persists greater than or equal to 12 months posthospital discharge. Given the high rates of silent aspiration, prospective, longitudinal research is needed to further understand the prevalence and impact of chronic dysphagia on health and quality of life in critically ill adults.},
}

Humans
*Deglutition Disorders/epidemiology/etiology
*Critical Illness
Prevalence
COVID-19/complications/epidemiology

@article {pmid40442421,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, BP},
title = {Analyzing the Interplay of Air Pollution and COVID-19: A Review on Health Implications.},
journal = {EcoHealth},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40442421},
issn = {1612-9210},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global public health, highlighting the complex relationship between air pollution and disease transmission. Approximately 2.3 billion people live in regions with high levels of air pollution, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, with countries like India facing severe challenges. This review examines the association between various pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, and CO, and the spread, severity, and mortality of COVID-19. Particulate matter, particularly fine particles, serves as a carrier for viral particles, facilitating faster transmission and increasing respiratory vulnerability. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to air pollutants exacerbates the severity of COVID-19 symptoms, especially in densely populated urban areas. During the lockdown phases, significant reductions in air pollution were observed, including decreases in PM2.5 by up to 93%, PM10 by 83%, and NO2 levels, which contributed to improved air quality and potentially mitigated COVID-19 mortality rates. The review also underscores regional disparities, with marginalized populations bearing a disproportionate burden of pollution exposure and health impacts. Gaseous pollutants such as NO2 were found to contribute to respiratory inflammation, increasing the susceptibility to severe COVID-19 outcomes. Additionally, the review explores the influence of meteorological and climatic factors on COVID-19 outcomes, noting the varying impact of temperature, humidity, and other factors depending on the season, geographical location, and latitude. These findings offer critical insights for policymakers and public health authorities in developing strategies for mitigating both air pollution and COVID-19 transmission.},
}

@article {pmid40442046,
year = {2025},
author = {Bansal, AK and Kumar, D},
title = {Solid-State Pharmaceutics Research in India: Present and Future.},
journal = {Molecular pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.5c00534},
pmid = {40442046},
issn = {1543-8392},
abstract = {The pharmaceutical industry not only plays a crucial role in the healthcare system but also contributes significantly to the economy of a country. It is interesting to note that in 2024, a Danish pharmaceutical company held the title of Europe's most valuable company. Novo Nordisk, riding on popularity of a weight-loss drug, had a valuation of $600 billion in 2024, outweighing the GDP of Denmark Nat Med 2024, 30, 2049. Indian companies have achieved global recognition in generics, thus earning India the title of the "pharmacy of the world". This position was further strengthened during the COVID-19 pandemic when India supported the global needs with its high-capacity manufacturing and efficient supply chain management. However, despite these awards, the total valuation of the Indian pharmaceutical market, including its export values, is less than $100 billion. This highlights the focus of Indian pharmaceutical companies on generics, which generally generates less revenue with high volumes Journal of Positive School Psychology 2022, 9285. In contrast, innovative products can generate a high revenue and accelerate economic growth. Innovative companies spend a good amount of their funds on research and development. It is well-recognized that a synergy between academic research institutions and pharmaceutical companies supports innovative outcomes Res. Policy 1991, 20, 1-12. In this perspective, we discuss the prominent areas of pharmaceutical research in Indian academia and also analyze the status of solid-state pharmaceutics (SSP) and pharmaceutical crystal engineering research. The article discusses the evolution of research in SSP, its status, and future prospects. Authors emphasize the need for improvement of the research ecosystem for SSP, thus ensuring availability of optimal human resources for this critical component of the pharmaceutical industry. There is a need to create a "solid-state pharmaceutics research cluster" in India to accelerate the research and support the growth of the Indian pharmaceutical industry.},
}

@article {pmid40441732,
year = {2025},
author = {Ibrahim, S and Siemieniuk, RAC and Oliveros, MJ and Islam, N and Díaz Martinez, JP and Izcovich, A and Qasim, A and Zhao, Y and Zaror, C and Yao, L and Wang, Y and Vandvik, PO and Roldan, Y and Rochwerg, B and Rada, G and Prasad, M and Pardo-Hernandez, H and Mustafa, RA and Fashami, FM and Miroshnychenko, A and McLeod, SL and Mansilla, C and Lamontagne, F and Khosravirad, A and Honarmand, K and Ghadimi, M and Gao, Y and Foroutan, F and Devji, T and Couban, R and Chu, DK and Chowdhury, SR and Chang, Y and Bravo-Soto, G and Bosio, C and Biscay, D and Bhogal, G and Azab, M and Agoritsas, T and Agarwal, A and Guyatt, GH and Brignardello-Petersen, R},
title = {Drug treatments for mild or moderate covid-19: systematic review and network meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ (Clinical research ed.)},
volume = {389},
number = {},
pages = {e081165},
pmid = {40441732},
issn = {1756-1833},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Network Meta-Analysis as Topic ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 ; Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Ritonavir/therapeutic use ; Lopinavir/therapeutic use ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Pyrazines/therapeutic use ; Severity of Illness Index ; Amides/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of treatments for mild or moderate (that is, non-severe) coronavirus disease 2019 (covid-19).

DESIGN: Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES: Covid-19 Living Overview of Evidence Repository (covid-19 L-OVE) by the Epistemonikos Foundation, a public, living repository of covid-19 articles, from 1 January 2023 to 19 May 2024. The search also included the WHO covid-19 database (up to 17 February 2023) and six Chinese databases (up to 20 February 2021). The analysis included studies identified between 1 December 2019 and 28 June 2023.

STUDY SELECTION: Randomised clinical trials in which people with suspected, probable, or confirmed mild or moderate covid-19 were allocated to drug treatment or to standard care or placebo. Pairs of reviewers independently screened potentially eligible articles.

METHODS: After duplicate data abstraction, a bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted. Risk of bias was assessed by use of a modification of the Cochrane risk of bias 2.0 tool, and the certainty of the evidence using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) approach. For each outcome, following GRADE guidance, drug treatments were classified in groups from the most to the least beneficial or harmful.

RESULTS: Of 259 trials enrolling 166 230 patients, 187 (72%) were included in the analysis. Compared with standard care, two drugs probably reduce hospital admission: nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (25 fewer per 1000 (95% confidence interval 28 fewer to 20 fewer), moderate certainty) and remdesivir (21 fewer per 1000 (28 fewer to 7 fewer), moderate certainty). Molnupiravir and systemic corticosteroids may reduce hospital admission (low certainty). Compared with standard care, azithromycin probably reduces time to symptom resolution (mean difference 4 days fewer (5 fewer to 3 fewer), moderate certainty) and systemic corticosteroids, favipiravir, molnupiravir, and umifenovir probably also reduce duration of symptoms (moderate to high certainty). Compared with standard care, only lopinavir-ritonavir increased adverse effects leading to discontinuation.

CONCLUSION: Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and remdesivir probably reduce admission to hospital, and systemic corticosteroids and molnupiravir may reduce admission to hospital. Several medications including systemic corticosteroids and molnupiravir probably reduce time to symptom resolution.

This review was not registered. The protocol is publicly available in the supplementary material.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Network Meta-Analysis as Topic
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Ritonavir/therapeutic use
Lopinavir/therapeutic use
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Pyrazines/therapeutic use
Severity of Illness Index
Amides/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40441594,
year = {2025},
author = {Forsdyke, DR},
title = {Mechanism and biological significance of erythrocyte homoaggregation (rouleaux formation): temperature-dependent entropic liberation of water from cells and macromolecules.},
journal = {Bio Systems},
volume = {254},
number = {},
pages = {105504},
doi = {10.1016/j.biosystems.2025.105504},
pmid = {40441594},
issn = {1872-8324},
abstract = {In the pre-antibiotic era, infections were usually more frequent and serious than today. Robin Fåhraeus (1888-1958) examined the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test for infections, which was normally carried out in vitro with freshly drawn blood. His extensive studies on the mechanism and physiological significance of the enhanced sedimentation of erythrocyte aggregates (rouleaux) in disease included in vivo simulation. This led him to propose an explanation for the finding of long white strips ("fibrin coagula") within the blood vessels of those who had died from infections. The surge of serious infections in pandemic times has likely kindled a reemergence. He further speculated that (i) the weak aggregation of red blood cells (RBCs) followed the liberation of water molecules from their surfaces, and (ii) the importance of their aggregation, which was induced by changes in serum proteins (not necessarily antibodies), extended beyond the clinic. In modern times these changes have led to immunologically significant entropic interpretations of infection-associated aggregations, whether cellular (e.g., RBC) or molecular (i.e., macromolecular polymerizations). Thus, rouleaux formation displays a process at the cellular level that can proceed in parallel at a less visible macromolecular level. It has been proposed that, when intracellular, aggregations would discriminate between self and not-self proteins in the crowded cytosol. Favoured by an associated pyrexia, this could lead, by mechanisms to be determined, to the preferential loading of peptides from proteins deemed "foreign" for presentation as major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs) to specific clones of immune cells.},
}

@article {pmid40440696,
year = {2025},
author = {Sylla, B and Ismaila, O and Diallo, G},
title = {25 Years of Digital Health Toward Universal Health Coverage in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Rapid Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e59042},
doi = {10.2196/59042},
pmid = {40440696},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; *Developing Countries ; *Telemedicine ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Universal Health Insurance ; Mobile Applications ; Health Services Accessibility ; Retrospective Studies ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Over the last 25 years, digital health interventions in low- and middle-income countries have undergone substantial transformations propelled by technological advancements, increased internet accessibility, and a deeper appreciation of the benefits of digital tools in enhancing health care availability.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine the evolution, impact, and prospects of digital health interventions in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting their role in improving health care accessibility and equity.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of digital health initiatives scanning the past two and a half decades focused on the progression from basic SMS platforms to sophisticated mobile health apps and other health digital interventions. Relevant literature and case studies were reviewed to elucidate key milestones, successes, challenges, and opportunities in advancing digital health initiatives in low- and middle-income regions.

RESULTS: Digital health initiatives in low- and middle-income countries initially targeted specific health concerns, such as malaria diagnosis and treatment, through text-based platforms, demonstrating their efficacy in reaching remote and marginalized communities. With the proliferation of mobile phone ownership and internet access, these interventions evolved into comprehensive mobile health apps, facilitating self-care support, patient education, chronic disease monitoring, and remote consultations. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of digital health interventions, particularly in disseminating health information, supporting contact tracing efforts, and enabling virtual consultations to alleviate strain on health care systems.

CONCLUSIONS: The future of digital health interventions in low- and middle-income countries holds immense promise, fueled by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. However, challenges persist in ensuring equitable access to digital health technologies, addressing disparities in digital literacy, and establishing robust health care infrastructure. Collaboration among governments, health care providers, technology innovators, and communities is essential to overcome these challenges and harness the full potential of digital health to improve health care outcomes in low- and middle-income countries.},
}

Humans
*Developing Countries
*Telemedicine
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Universal Health Insurance
Mobile Applications
Health Services Accessibility
Retrospective Studies
Digital Health

@article {pmid40439840,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, X},
title = {ACE2, a therapeutic target of COVID-19, needs to be treated with caution.},
journal = {Archives of virology},
volume = {170},
number = {7},
pages = {143},
pmid = {40439840},
issn = {1432-8798},
support = {2015647//Ministère de l'Education Nationale, de la Formation professionnelle, de l'Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique/ ; },
mesh = {*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/genetics ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/physiology ; COVID-19/virology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Virus Internalization/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has garnered significant attention for its crucial role in infection by both SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. Consequently, it has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of COVID-19. It is therefore important to understand the mechanisms and modes of action of current and future treatments involving ACE2. Three important strategies have been explored in previous studies: (1) interruption of the interaction between ACE2 and the coronavirus spike protein using compounds or monoclonal antibodies, (2) capturing the extracellular virus by employing soluble ACE2 as a decoy, and (3) reducing the expression or inhibiting the activity of ACE2 through genetic approaches or drug intervention. However, the third strategy of inhibiting ACE2 activity as a means of treating COVID-19 is potentially risky, and the wisdom of pursuing this approach is subject to debate. Here, the advisability of using anti-ACE2 treatment in the context of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 infections is challenged by reviewing the physiological function of ACE2 and the mechanism of viral entry, emphasizing the pathological impairment of ACE2 that occurs during SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 infection and arguing that the potential hazards associated with ACE2 impairment should be given more attention. Because of the important concerns regarding the potential side effects of ACE2 inhibition, researchers are strongly urged to approach this issue with caution.},
}

*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/genetics
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/physiology
COVID-19/virology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Virus Internalization/drug effects

@article {pmid40438846,
year = {2025},
author = {Idris Fadul, AA and Osman Mohamed, AA and Mohammed Ahmed, AAS and Elmobark, S and Merghani Hammour, AS and Elgaleel Khir Elsiad, NMN and Mohammed Elhaj, EA},
title = {Post-coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Cardiovascular Manifestations: A Systematic Review of Long-Term Risks and Outcomes.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e83083},
pmid = {40438846},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Emerging evidence suggests that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors face increased risks of cardiovascular complications, but the long-term risks, underlying mechanisms, and clinical implications remain incompletely characterized. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on post-COVID-19 cardiovascular manifestations, evaluating their incidence, pathophysiology, and outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Fifteen observational studies (cohort, case-control, cross-sectional) meeting predefined eligibility criteria, confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, cardiovascular outcomes assessed ≥4 weeks post-infection, sample sizes >10, and peer-reviewed publication, were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The multinational studies (United States, Europe, Asia, South America) involved diverse populations (n=80-8,126,462), with follow-up durations ranging from three to 24 months. Mechanisms such as endothelial dysfunction, myocardial inflammation, and autonomic dysregulation were consistently supported across studies via imaging (e.g., cardiac MRI) and biomarkers (e.g., troponin, C-reactive protein (CRP)). Persistent arrhythmias and subclinical myocardial injury were directly demonstrated in 40-60% of patients. Worse outcomes were associated with hospitalization during acute infection, preexisting cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Heterogeneity in follow-up durations may limit the detection of very-late-onset complications, though risks remained elevated across all intervals. Individualized management strategies should include cardiovascular imaging (echocardiography, MRI), biomarker profiling, and tailored pharmacotherapy (anti-inflammatory agents, anticoagulants). The ethical rationale for randomized trials is now strengthened by the clear evidence of long-term risks; ongoing trials are testing targeted anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant regimens. These findings underscore the necessity of systematic cardiovascular surveillance and risk-stratified care for COVID-19 survivors. Future research should prioritize extended follow-up studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to optimize interventions for this growing population.},
}

@article {pmid40438117,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Z and Qin, L and Xu, X and Chen, R and Zhang, G and Wang, B and Li, B and Chu, XM},
title = {Immune modulation: the key to combat SARS-CoV-2 induced myocardial injury.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1561946},
pmid = {40438117},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Animals ; *Cardiomyopathies/immunology ; Myocardium/immunology/pathology ; *Immunomodulation ; },
abstract = {The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which caused the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, has posed significant healthcare challenges. In addition to respiratory complications, it has led to severe damage in other organs, particularly the cardiovascular system. Of which, myocardial injury is increasingly recognized as a most significant complication, contributing to the high mortality. Recent research indicates the pivotal role of immune dysregulation in mediating myocardial injury in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the immune mechanisms involved in SARS-CoV-2-induced myocardial damage, focusing on the roles of key immune cells and molecules that contribute to this pathological process. Aiming at mitigating the myocardial injury of COVID-19, we review immune-based treatments under evaluation in preclinical and clinical trials. Along with talking about the similarities and differences in myocardial injury resulting from SARS-CoV-2, the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). This article provides a unique perspective on using past experiences to prevent myocardial injury in the face of ongoing virus mutations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Animals
*Cardiomyopathies/immunology
Myocardium/immunology/pathology
*Immunomodulation

@article {pmid40438110,
year = {2025},
author = {Konopka, EN and Edgerton, AO and Kutzler, MA},
title = {Nucleic acid vaccines: innovations, efficacy, and applications in at-risk populations.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1584876},
pmid = {40438110},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Vaccines, DNA/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; Vaccine Efficacy ; *Nucleic Acid-Based Vaccines/immunology ; Vaccine Development ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Aging/immunology ; },
abstract = {For more than two centuries, the field of vaccine development has progressed through the adaptation of novel platforms in parallel with technological developments. Building off the advantages and shortcomings of first and second-generation vaccine platforms, the advent of third-generation nucleic acid vaccines has enabled new approaches to tackle emerging infectious diseases, cancers, and pathogens where vaccines remain unavailable. Unlike traditional vaccine platforms, nucleic acid vaccines offer several new advantages, including their lower cost and rapid production, which was widely demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond production, DNA and mRNA vaccines can elicit unique and targeted responses through specialized design and delivery approaches. Considering the growth of nucleic acid vaccine research over the past two decades, the evaluation of their efficacy in at-risk populations is paramount for refining and improving vaccine design. Importantly, the aging population represents a significant portion of individuals highly susceptible to infection and disease. This review seeks to outline the major impairments in vaccine-induced responses due to aging that may be targeted for improvement with design and delivery components encompassing mRNA and DNA vaccine formulations. Results of pre-clinical and clinical applications of these vaccines in aged animal models and humans will also be evaluated to outline current successes and limitations observed in these platforms.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Vaccines, DNA/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Animals
Vaccine Efficacy
*Nucleic Acid-Based Vaccines/immunology
Vaccine Development
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Aging/immunology

@article {pmid40438065,
year = {2025},
author = {Blackberry, I and Boak, J and Barclay, K and Khalil, H},
title = {What is the care economy? A scoping review on current evidence, challenges, facilitators and future opportunities.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1540009},
pmid = {40438065},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Caregivers/economics ; *COVID-19/economics/epidemiology ; Female ; Adult ; Male ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The care economy gained its prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The value and impact of caregiving, mostly shouldered by women, was not as visible until such crisis point. Health care and social support sectors represent the largest and fastest growing industry globally. This scoping review aims to elucidate the current state of play in the care economy, where there is a great reliance on informal and formal care workforce to deliver care for populations across all age groups and abilities.

METHODS: Following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA-SCR reporting guidance, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Campbell collaboration database, Social Science Abstracts, Library and Information Science Abstracts (LISA) and Scopus. Quantitative and qualitative original research on disability, aged care, early childhood education and care, rural, veterans, migrants and informal and formal care workforce from January 2018 until November 2023 were examined.

RESULTS: Of 354 studies selected, 20% were from the United States of America, 11% each were from China and the United Kingdom. Most studies employed cross-sectional design. A quarter of the studies included adults aged 65 years and above while 6% were adults aged 18 to 64 years. These age groups combined were included in an additional 27% of studies. Women were overrepresented in 70% of the studies. Nearly two-thirds of caregivers were spouses or partners. Barriers to providing care were lack of education, support and monitoring of caregiver well-being, loss of income or ability to earn money, reduced social life and increased out-of-pocket costs. Gaps in research included migrant populations' contribution to the care economy, gender and diversity inequality in the care economy. The care economy could be improved through providing education for caregivers, care workforce engaging with caregivers in the care plan, and governments' overhaul of compensation for caregivers through direct financial support and employment benefits.

CONCLUSION: The care economy is an emerging research area. There continues to be a paucity of research evidence across some geographical areas. Studies are mostly short term or small scale with very little evidence around the value of care. Given the growing aging population, more research is needed to elucidate the positive aspects of caring by formal and informal care workforce to the population, society and economy.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: The protocol is registered with Open Science Framework (10.17605). "Definitions, key themes and aspects of the care economy-a scoping review protocol," https://osf.io/ypmuh.},
}

Humans
*Caregivers/economics
*COVID-19/economics/epidemiology
Female
Adult
Male
Aged
Middle Aged

@article {pmid38967074,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammadi, R and Forouzanfar, H and Rahimi, H and Mohamadi-Zarch, SM and Jamhiri, K and Bagheri, SM},
title = {Antiviral Effect of Ferula Plants and their Potential for Treatment of COVID-19: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical biotechnology},
volume = {26},
number = {8},
pages = {1221-1231},
pmid = {38967074},
issn = {1873-4316},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/isolation & purification ; COVID-19 ; *Ferula/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Plant Extracts/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy ; Animals ; Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Viral diseases have always been a threat to mankind throughout history, and many people have lost their lives due to the epidemic of these diseases. In recent years, despite the progress of science, we are still witnessing a pandemic of dangerous diseases such as COVID-19 all over the world, which can be a warning for humanity. Ferula is a genus of flowering plants commonly found in Central Asia, and its species have shown antiviral activity against a variety of viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus, Herpes simplex virus type 1, influenza, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B, and coronaviruses. In this study, we intend to review the antiviral effects of Ferula plants, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of these plants in the treatment of COVID-19. Google, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched to review the relevant literature on the antiviral effect of Ferula or its isolated compounds. The search was performed using the keywords Ferula, antiviral, Coronaviruses, respiratory syncytial virus, Herpes simplex virus type 1, influenza, human immunodeficiency virus, and hepatitis B. According to the reviewed articles and available scientific evidence, it was determined that the plants of this genus have strong antiviral effects. Also, clinical studies have shown that some species, such as Ferula assa-foetida, can be used effectively in the treatment of COVID-19. Ferula plants have inhibitory effects on various viruses, making them an attractive alternative to conventional antiviral agents. Therefore, these plants are a natural source of valuable compounds that can help us fight infectious diseases.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/isolation & purification
COVID-19
*Ferula/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2
*Plant Extracts/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy
Animals
Betacoronavirus/drug effects

@article {pmid40438050,
year = {2025},
author = {Moreira da Cunha, N and Tzirita, S and Gobbo, E and Herzig van Wees, S},
title = {Factors influencing adolescents' decision-making about COVID-19 vaccination: a systematic review with qualitative synthesis.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1563677},
pmid = {40438050},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Adolescent ; *Decision Making ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination/psychology ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Health Literacy ; Qualitative Research ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Attitudes towards vaccination are influenced by a broad range of factors, yet little is known about the drivers shaping adolescents' vaccination beliefs. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore the factors influencing adolescents' individual decision-making towards COVID-19 vaccination.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted using Medline, Web of Science, Sociological Abstracts, and Publicly Available Content Database. Studies on attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions of adolescents regarding COVID-19 vaccines were included. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist was used for quality assessment, followed by thematic synthesis of the included studies.

RESULTS: In total, 13 studies were included, revealing 5 key themes: (1) Limited vaccine literacy influences adolescents' attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines; (2) Family, peers, and community strongly influence adolescents' COVID-19 vaccine decision-making; (3) Different levels of trust in vaccine providers and governments influence adolescents' attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines; (4) Desire to go back to normality influences adolescents' COVID-19 vaccine attitudes towards vaccine acceptancy; (5) Autonomy influences adolescents' COVID-19 vaccine decision-making.

DISCUSSION: The review findings suggest that vaccine acceptance among adolescents could be improved through tailored and accessible vaccine literacy messaging, addressing structural mistrust, and empowering adolescents to make autonomous health decisions that take into account diverse contexts and populations.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024512197, identifier CRD42024512197.},
}

Humans
Adolescent
*Decision Making
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination/psychology
*Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Health Literacy
Qualitative Research

@article {pmid40437478,
year = {2025},
author = {Mann, C and Reuben, E and Baker, S and Hijazi, M and Nandakumar, AK and Shetty, P and Stanley, R and Igboelina, O and Nyombi, G and Nzoya, D and Oli, S and Kena, G and Piña, C and Tuchman, J and Sklaw, K and Kola-Jebutu, A and Lohar, I and Cam, ANT and Kamdem, ST and Kouadio Kouadio, YM},
title = {Addressing the HIV/AIDS investment gap through stronger public financial management systems: a human-centered approach.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {24},
number = {Suppl 1},
pages = {1670},
doi = {10.1186/s12913-024-11324-1},
pmid = {40437478},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *HIV Infections/economics ; *Financial Management/organization & administration ; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/economics ; Budgets ; COVID-19 ; *Financing, Government/organization & administration ; Capacity Building ; *Investments ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: UNAIDS estimated that US$29 billion will be required by 2025 to meet HIV/AIDS service demands, with 53 percent expected to come from domestic sources. The PEPFAR-funded, USAID-implemented Sustainable Financing Initiative for HIV/AIDS (SFI), starting in 2014, supported domestic resources mobilization efforts and activities to strengthen countries' public financial management (PFM) systems, positively contributing to much-needed increase in domestic resources for health and HIV.

PROGRAM APPROACH: SFI was implemented in 12 countries, supporting activities to build the capacity of governments to mobilize domestic resources for HIV, improve budget absorption, and maximize resource use and develop and use evidence for advocacy to increase domestic government funds for HIV/AIDS. SFI measured impact by agreed upon indicators and estimated return on investment (ROI).

RESULTS: Eight countries focused on building capacity to improve budgeting and execution of health and HIV/AIDS funds; five experienced increases in budget allocation and spending. Kenya country governments spent an additional US$180 million and US$8.7 million on health and HIV, respectively. This contributed to US$60 mobilized and spent for every SFI dollar invested. Eight countries focused on using evidence to advocate for more domestic resources for health and HIV/AIDS from government budgets, increase budget execution, and identify areas for efficiency. Cambodia saw an increase in government commitments for ARVs from US$1.5 million annually from 2018-2020 to US$5 million by 2023.

LESSONS LEARNED: Robust data are needed for evidence-based advocacy to increase domestic government funding for HIV/AIDS and to strengthen PFM systems for more efficient and effective resource use; institutionalizing capacity building efforts allows for locally-led technical assistance; policy-related work is a multi-year endeavor; PFM success can be stymied by political transitions, political will, and donor commitments; COVID-19 brought new challenges and new opportunities; measurable results can lead to greater impact; and results are not necessarily solely project attributions with possible inflation of ROI estimates given there was no counterfactual.

CONCLUSION: Strengthening PFM systems can increase domestic resources for health and HIV through increased revenue and improved efficiency; closing the investment gap to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030.},
}

Humans
*HIV Infections/economics
*Financial Management/organization & administration
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/economics
Budgets
COVID-19
*Financing, Government/organization & administration
Capacity Building
*Investments

@article {pmid40436612,
year = {2025},
author = {Daynes, E and Barker, RE and Jones, AV and Walsh, JA and Nolan, CM and Man, WD and Singh, SJ and Greening, NJ and Houchen-Wolloff, L and Evans, RA},
title = {Determining the minimum important differences for field walking tests in adults with long-term conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {34},
number = {176},
pages = {},
pmid = {40436612},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Walk Test ; *Exercise Tolerance ; Time Factors ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Male ; Female ; *Minimal Clinically Important Difference ; Reproducibility of Results ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; *Lung/physiopathology ; *Walking ; Aged ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology/therapy ; *Heart Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Prognosis ; *Exercise Test ; *Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Chronic Disease ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: The minimum important difference (MID) for field walking tests aims to improve interpretation of outcomes, but the volume and heterogeneity of MIDs for these tests is challenging. We aimed to determine the MID for the 6-min walk distance (6MWD), incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) and endurance shuttle walk test (ESWT) in adults with long-term conditions.

METHODS: This systematic review included studies that generated a MID using an anchor-based approach in patients with long-term conditions for the 6MWD, ISWT or ESWT field walking tests. Studies were screened and data extracted by independent reviewers. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan.

RESULTS: 42 studies were included in the analyses, involving n=13 949 participants. Of these, 12 studies involving exercise as an intervention were included in the meta-analyses to produce MIDs, presented as mean (95% confidence interval). The MID for the 6MWD was 25 m (24-26 m) for respiratory conditions, 23 m (8-37 m) for cardiac conditions and 37 m (26-49 m) for neurological/musculoskeletal conditions. The MID for the ISWT was 48 m (39-57 m) for respiratory conditions and 70 m (55-85 m) for cardiac conditions. The MID for ESWT in COPD was 159 s (94-224 s). The pooled MID across conditions within exercise interventions was 26 m (22-40 m) for the 6MWD and 53 m (44-62 m) for the ISWT, with reasonable heterogeneity (I[2]=48% and I[2]=47%, respectively).

CONCLUSION: We propose new MIDs for exercise interventions using anchor-based methodology in long‑term conditions for the 6MWD, ISWT and ESWT. These can be used internationally for meta‑analyses where studies have used different field walking tests, to optimise trial sample size calculations, and for clinical service benchmarking.},
}

Humans
*Walk Test
*Exercise Tolerance
Time Factors
Predictive Value of Tests
Male
Female
*Minimal Clinically Important Difference
Reproducibility of Results
Adult
Middle Aged
*Lung/physiopathology
*Walking
Aged
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology/therapy
*Heart Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology
Prognosis
*Exercise Test
*Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology
Chronic Disease

@article {pmid40435404,
year = {2025},
author = {Machtinger, AN and Machkovech, HM and O'Connor, SL and Johnson, MC and Shafer, MM and Friedrich, TC and O'Connor, DH},
title = {Community-Scale Molecular Surveillance for Human Viruses.},
journal = {Annual review of virology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-virology-092623-102821},
pmid = {40435404},
issn = {2327-0578},
abstract = {Environmental surveillance, including wastewater and air sampling, has emerged as a powerful complement to traditional clinical surveillance for monitoring viral circulation. Advances in sampling and detection technologies, many spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, have enabled more sensitive and comprehensive characterization of viruses in diverse types of commingled samples from multiple individuals. Expanding environmental monitoring globally presents challenges and opportunities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where centralized sewage infrastructure may be limited. Ethical implementation will require balancing privacy and transparency through community engagement. Future directions include using environmental surveillance to detect emerging zoonoses, fill gaps when clinical testing wanes, and inform public health actions. While logistical, regulatory, and ethical challenges remain, coordination across scientific and public health stakeholders can enable environmental monitoring to transform epidemic intelligence. This review summarizes recent developments in environmental surveillance systems and discusses how they can mitigate the introduction and spread of viruses in communities.},
}

@article {pmid40360101,
year = {2025},
author = {Aldaais, EA},
title = {Cellulose-based and polysaccharide delivery systems for phytochemicals in MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 treatment: A systematic review of therapeutic potential.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {313},
number = {},
pages = {143985},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.143985},
pmid = {40360101},
issn = {1879-0003},
mesh = {Humans ; *Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/drug effects ; *Polysaccharides/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Cellulose/chemistry ; *Phytochemicals/chemistry/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; *Drug Delivery Systems ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry ; COVID-19 ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; Chitosan/chemistry ; Drug Carriers/chemistry ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Phytochemical delivery systems often suffer from poor bioavailability and stability, limiting their therapeutic impact against coronaviruses. Polysaccharide-based carriers offer promising alternatives due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and potential for functionalization. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of cellulose-based and other polysaccharide delivery systems in enhancing phytochemical delivery for MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 treatment. Following PRISMA guidelines, six databases were searched for studies published between 2019 and 2024. Twenty studies meeting inclusion criteria were analyzed for delivery system performance, including particle characterization, drug loading efficiency, and therapeutic outcomes. Chitosan-based systems exhibited the highest encapsulation efficiency (86.8 %) and bioavailability enhancement (10.04-fold). Cellulose nanocrystals showed favorable particle size (100-250 nm) and drug loading capacity (72.5 %). Hybrid systems offered sustained stability up to 72 h under physiological conditions. All systems demonstrated good safety profiles, with cell viability exceeding 85 %. Statistical analyses confirmed significant differences between carrier types (p < 0.05), with chitosan systems performing best overall. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of polysaccharide-based delivery systems for coronavirus treatment. Future research should address the limited data on MERS-CoV-specific systems and standardize methodologies to enhance cross-study comparability.},
}

Humans
*Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/drug effects
*Polysaccharides/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Cellulose/chemistry
*Phytochemicals/chemistry/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology
*Drug Delivery Systems
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry
COVID-19
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
Chitosan/chemistry
Drug Carriers/chemistry
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid40272340,
year = {2025},
author = {Shanker, AJ and Jones, SO and Blankenship, JC and Cheung, JW and Ekeruo, IA and Hurwitz, JL and Liu, CF and Merchant, FM and Su, WW and Varosy, PD},
title = {HRS/ACC scientific statement: Guiding principles on same-day discharge for intracardiac catheter ablation procedures.},
journal = {Heart rhythm},
volume = {22},
number = {6},
pages = {e1-e12},
doi = {10.1016/j.hrthm.2025.02.029},
pmid = {40272340},
issn = {1556-3871},
mesh = {Humans ; *Catheter Ablation/methods/standards ; *Patient Discharge/standards ; United States ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Arrhythmias, Cardiac/surgery ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Ambulatory Surgical Procedures ; },
abstract = {Percutaneous catheter ablation in interventional cardiac electrophysiology has evolved over the past several decades. Technologic advances and evolving procedural strategies have improved procedural efficiencies, increased success rates, and lowered complication rates. These advances have increased the ability to treat more patients successfully; however, limitations to access have grown. Access challenges (exacerbated during the COVID-19 public health emergency) and economic pressures have driven a shift in practice trends to reduce hospitalization duration and optimize resource utilization. A same-day discharge (SDD) strategy has increasingly been used to address these challenges. Incorporating a SDD strategy has recently been supported by global clinical studies (demonstrating proof of concept) and real-world evidence/United States Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services claims data (characterizing a low incidence of complications and need for readmission/emergency department visits). This document analyzes available global clinical data and real-world evidence examining the impact of a cardiac ablation SDD strategy on patient safety, patient access, operational efficiencies, and health care expenditures. Recommended best practices will also be characterized built on the foundation of a shared decision-making strategy that optimizes patient safety, comfort, and procedural outcomes. As clinical flow paradigms evolve with alternate sites of care (ie, ambulatory surgery centers), real-world registries to track outcomes should inform future decision-making.},
}

Humans
*Catheter Ablation/methods/standards
*Patient Discharge/standards
United States
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Arrhythmias, Cardiac/surgery
SARS-CoV-2
*Ambulatory Surgical Procedures

@article {pmid40007187,
year = {2025},
author = {Focosi, D and Sullivan, DJ and Franchini, M},
title = {Development of antiviral drugs for COVID-19 in 2025: unmet needs and future challenges.},
journal = {Expert review of anti-infective therapy},
volume = {23},
number = {6},
pages = {351-358},
doi = {10.1080/14787210.2025.2473044},
pmid = {40007187},
issn = {1744-8336},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Drug Development/trends ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Immunization, Passive/methods ; Immunocompromised Host ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The success in the coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic containment largely originated from vaccine- and infection-elicited immunity, with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection only marginally mitigated by the availability of antiviral drugs. The current lack of effective antiviral prophylactic and therapeutic agents in immunocompromised patients highlights the need for a radical change in the design of both drug manufacturing and clinical trials.

AREAS COVERED: In this review, the authors summarize their suggestions for manufacturers, by reviewing classes of small molecule antivirals and passive immunotherapies and highlighting their limitations and unexploited potential.

EXPERT OPINION: Molecular and serological testing of patients can improve appropriateness. Efficacy of antivirals can be improved by combining different therapeutic classes while preserving economical sustainability. Respiratory delivery should be better investigated in clinical trials.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Drug Development/trends
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Immunization, Passive/methods
Immunocompromised Host

@article {pmid39960599,
year = {2025},
author = {Nakazawa, E and Uchimura, T and Ohyama, R and Togashi, H and Inaba, A and Shiga, K and Ito, S},
title = {Two adolescents with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome newly diagnosed after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: case report and literature review.},
journal = {CEN case reports},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {461-467},
pmid = {39960599},
issn = {2192-4449},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nephrotic Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Adolescent ; Recurrence ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; Female ; BNT162 Vaccine/adverse effects ; Cyclosporine/therapeutic use ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; Rituximab/therapeutic use ; Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Even though several cases of new-onset nephrotic syndrome following vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been reported, none have included the medium- to long-term prognosis of the patients. Here, we report the prognoses of two adolescents, aged 14 and 15 years, who developed nephrotic syndrome soon after receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Both patients were diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome after developing edema within a few days post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Although they achieved rapid and complete remission with prednisolone therapy, they developed frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome and were initiated on cyclosporine. In one patient, frequent relapses occurred while taking cyclosporine, requiring rituximab to maintain remission. Measurements of antibody titers against the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine taken over time revealed significantly lower titers in both patients compared with those in healthy individuals. Furthermore, each patient was infected with SARS-CoV-2 about 12 months post vaccination, with mild symptoms. Nephrotic syndrome did not recur in either patient. We also reviewed 49 published cases of patients who developed nephrotic syndrome after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, compared to our pediatric cases, there are no cases of recurrence with the same frequency in adult cases, and it is desirable to accumulate and compare more pediatric cases in the future.},
}

Humans
*Nephrotic Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis
Adolescent
Recurrence
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Male
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Prednisolone/therapeutic use
Female
BNT162 Vaccine/adverse effects
Cyclosporine/therapeutic use
Vaccination/adverse effects
Rituximab/therapeutic use
Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40434925,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheuiche, AV and Teixeira, MG and Moro, C and Guimarães, G and Salvador, L and Czepielewski, MA and de, LCP and Silveiro, SP},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of central precocious puberty: A PRISMA-ScR-COMPLIANT scoping review.},
journal = {Archives of endocrinology and metabolism},
volume = {69},
number = {2},
pages = {e240300},
pmid = {40434925},
issn = {2359-4292},
mesh = {Humans ; *Puberty, Precocious/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Male ; Female ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Puberty is a biological maturation process that involves genetic, nutritional, environmental, ethnic, and lifestyle factors. During the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an increase in referrals for central precocious puberty (CPP) assessment was observed in clinical practice. The aim of this review was to evaluate the incidence of CPP in different countries before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A PRISMA-ScR-compliant scoping review was performed in the MEDLINE and Embase databases using "puberty" and "COVID-19" as search terms. Exclusion criteria were an identifiable organic cause of CPP, genetic disorders or peripheral precocious puberty. The study was registered in OSF. A total of 26 studies with participants from 11 countries were included. Twenty-five studies found a 1.3- to 5-fold increase in the incidence of CPP in girls. In boys, 4 studies found no significant difference in the number of cases, 3 studies found a 2.8- to 3.4-fold increase, and 1 study detected a 75% decrease. Twelve studies reported an increase in the use of electronic devices, sedentary lifestyles, higher Z-scores for weight and body mass index, increased sleep disturbances, and a lower age at the onset of puberty. Seven studies found no significant differences in clinical and laboratory parameters between the pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. There was an increase in the incidence of precocious puberty among girls during the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding was not consistently observed in boys. Increased screen time, reduced physical activity, psychological stress, changes in diet and sleep habits, and the direct effects of SARS-CoV-2 may have caused these results.},
}

Humans
*Puberty, Precocious/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Incidence
Male
Female
Child
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40434505,
year = {2025},
author = {Gupta, MK and Srivastava, R},
title = {Gut Microbiome Interventions: From Dysbiosis to Next-Generation Probiotics (NGPs) for Disease Management.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40434505},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {The gut microbiome, sometimes referred to as the "second brain," the "lost organ," the "identification card of the individual," and the "fingerprint of the host," possesses diverse traits and functions that influence health. The impact of gut commensal bacteria on health, as opposed to environmental pathogenic factors, has generated increasing interest in recent years, culminating in a substantial body of study. Research indicates that dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota is commonly observed in chronic inflammatory diseases, including colitis, obesity/metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, liver infections, allergic conditions, cardiovascular diseases, COVID-19, cancers, and neurodegenerative disorders. The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics has recently refined the theory of complementary and synergistic synbiotics. In recent years, the field of microbiome research has been significantly advanced by technological developments such as massive culturomics, gnotobiotics, metabolomics, parallel DNA sequencing, and RNA sequencing. This review article examined the potential next generation probiotics (NGPs) and explored some of them, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, Akkermansia muciniphila, Parabacteroides goldsteinii, Bacteroides fragilis, Eubacterium hallii, Roseburia intestinalis, Christensenella minuta, Prevotella copri, and Oscillospira guilliermondii. In addition to these useful probiotic strains, psychobiotics, members of the families of Lactobacilli, Streptococci, Bifidobacteria, Escherichia, and Enterococci, have extended applicability in the use for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. The article also reviewed current trends and limitations in NGPs to enhance our comprehensive understanding of key concepts associated with the consumption of probiotics and proposed necessary initiatives for researchers to engage in collaborative translational research as future therapeutic solutions.},
}

@article {pmid40434501,
year = {2025},
author = {Rajkumar, T and Hennessy, A and Makris, A},
title = {Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring in Pregnancies at Risk of Developing Preeclampsia.},
journal = {Current hypertension reports},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {15},
pmid = {40434501},
issn = {1534-3111},
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *Pre-Eclampsia/diagnosis/physiopathology/prevention & control ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Blood Pressure Monitoring, Ambulatory/methods ; *Blood Pressure/physiology ; *Blood Pressure Determination/methods ; Telemedicine ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the literature on remote blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) for pregnant women at high risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP).

RECENT FINDINGS: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity. High risk women often require frequent outpatient review for blood pressure monitoring which can be resource-intensive. RBPM is an organised framework which allows patients to monitor their own blood pressure with clinician guidance, improving healthcare utilisation and potentially saving healthcare costs without worsening maternal and fetal outcomes. Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing research interest in mobile health, RBPM has been integrated into international guidelines for managing high-risk pregnancies. Yet there is significant heterogeneity across RBPM frameworks described in the literature, and a lack of clear guidance on the development and implementation of this strategy. RBPM offers promising additional surveillance for high-risk pregnant women. However, challenges remain in its safe implementation, including patient selection, technology, costs, and adequate training to ensure accuracy in blood pressure readings.},
}

Humans
Pregnancy
Female
*Pre-Eclampsia/diagnosis/physiopathology/prevention & control
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Blood Pressure Monitoring, Ambulatory/methods
*Blood Pressure/physiology
*Blood Pressure Determination/methods
Telemedicine
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40434418,
year = {2025},
author = {Voderholzer, U and Naab, S and Cuntz, U and Schlegl, S},
title = {Anorexia nervosa-an update.},
journal = {Der Nervenarzt},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40434418},
issn = {1433-0407},
abstract = {Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric disorder with the highest mortality rate among eating disorders. It predominantly affects adolescents and young adults, with a significant increase in prevalence among adolescents observed since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It is frequently associated with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders as well as numerous physical complications. An early diagnosis and treatment are associated with better outcomes. The treatment of choice for AN includes cognitive behavioral therapy and family-based therapy for children and adolescents. Innovative treatment approaches, such as home treatment and technology-based interventions, have shown promising preliminary results. With the exception of moderate evidence supporting the use of olanzapine regarding weight gain, there is currently no evidence for the efficacy of psychopharmacotherapy in AN. Future research should focus on prevention, early detection and intervention, relapse prevention, personalized treatment approaches, management of comorbid disorders, long-term studies and the influence of psychosocial factors.},
}

@article {pmid40433624,
year = {2025},
author = {Njiriri, F and Nyanchoka, M and Nzinga, J and Tsofa, B},
title = {Experiences with the Implementation of Cuban Health Cooperation Programs in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Wellcome open research},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {167},
pmid = {40433624},
issn = {2398-502X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health systems in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) face chronic Human Resources for Health (HRH) shortages. This is especially worse in rural and primary healthcare settings. The Cuban government since 1960s has been implementing a policy strategy for producing healthcare workers for export, to boost their economy. Several LMICs have since established health cooperation programs with Cuba to import health workers to address their shortages. This review aimed to examine the emergence, design, utility, outcomes, and lessons learned from the implementation of these programs.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and searched for literature across four databases. Two independent reviewers screened the articles and selected relevant articles based on pre-defined criteria. We extracted data and synthesized findings using thematic analysis.

RESULTS: We included 71 articles after screening 3509 articles. Cuban health cooperation programs have been implemented in many LMICs in South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific region. These programs are formalized primarily through bilateral agreements and implemented as exchange initiatives. This involves importing Cuban healthcare workers and sending collaborating country students to study in Cuba. These programs aimed to address HRH shortages and maldistribution, inadequate training capacity, and respond to medical emergencies in the host countries. Cuban healthcare workers, primarily family physicians, within the host countries; are deployed in primary healthcare settings, increasing the rural health workforce, and improving healthcare access and outcomes. These programs have faced several challenges including opposition from local medical professionals, underutilization due to poorly coordinated recruitment, and language barrier.

CONCLUSION: Cuban health cooperations in LMICs have shown diverse results based on their structures. Long-term comprehensive programs have proven to be more successful in boosting the healthcare workforce and enhancing health outcomes. Key factors for optimizing HRH health cooperation include effective collaborative decision-making and need-based deployment.},
}

@article {pmid40433610,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, X and Zhu, W},
title = {Effects of coronavirus disease 2019 on the incidence, mortality, and prognosis of ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in neurology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1486887},
pmid = {40433610},
issn = {1664-2295},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review on the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the incidence, mortality, and prognosis of ischemic stroke. The systematic review also ascertained the relationship between COVID-19 and the Trial of Org 10,172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) typing of ischemic stroke, as well as the risk factors for ischemic stroke in patients with COVID-19.

METHODS: The relevant literature between COVID-19 and ischemic stroke incidence, mortality, and prognosis up to January 2024 were systematically reviewed. Searches were carried out PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. Utilizing the Meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology (MOOSE) declaration list, a systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out. Heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed.

RESULTS: Twenty-one studies encompassed 505,864 participants across 13 countries. In total, 1.1% of patients with COVID-19 infection had an ischemic stroke (odds ratio [OR], 0.011; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.007-0.017; p < 0.001). COVID-19 was related to in-hospital mortality (OR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.90-4.02; p < 0.001), mortality 3 months following the beginning of an ischemic stroke (OR, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.80-3.58; p < 0.001), and modified Rankin scale (mRS) score ≤2 at hospital discharge (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.54-0.72; p < 0.001). mRS ≤ 2 at 3 months after the onset of ischemic stroke did not show any correlation significantly with COVID-19 (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.43-1.06; p = 0.086). Longer hospital stays (OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.06-0.20; p < 0.001) and increased incidence of large-artery atherosclerosis and small-vessel disease phenotypes of ischemic stroke were observed in patients with both COVID-19 and ischemic stroke (p < 0.05). In patients with COVID-19, ischemic stroke was substantially linked with hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 is linked with increased incidence and mortality rates for ischemic stroke, as well as a worsening prognosis for the condition. With the data obtained from this study, targeted strategies to prevent and treat ischemic stroke in the context of the COVID-19 can be developed.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024524016, identifier: CRD42024524016.},
}

@article {pmid40433474,
year = {2025},
author = {Mousavi, T and Moosazadeh, M},
title = {Vitamin D status in children with mild, moderate, or severe confirmed COVID-19: systematic-review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in pediatrics},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1436633},
pmid = {40433474},
issn = {2296-2360},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vitamin D acts as a pro-hormone with a wide range of beneficial effects. It is reported that vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for COVID-19 severity in children. In the present study, we decided to assess 25 hydroxy (OH) vitamin D status in children with mild, moderate, or severe confirmed COVID-19 and also compare them with those of a healthy control group using existing data.

METHODS: Relevant studies were extracted using online international databases including Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Google Scholar search engine between Jan 2019 and 2024. The quality of all papers is determined by the NOS checklist. Heterogeneity between the results of primary studies was evaluated with the I-square index. Egger's test, funnel plot, and sensitivity analysis were applied. The statistical analysis was done using Stata version 17.

RESULTS: In 12 documents, the status of vitamin D was examined between case and control groups. By combining the results of these studies using random effect model, the standardized mean difference (SMD) vitamin D level in the COVID-19 children compared to the control group was estimated to be -0.88 (98% CI: -1.24, -0.51), which was statistically significant. In the present study, the odd ratio of vitamin D deficiency and vitamin D disorder (insufficiency and deficiency) in children with moderate COVID-19 compared to asymptomatic children with COVID-19 were estimated to be 3.58 (1.10, 11.63) and 2.52 (0.99, 6.41) respectively which was higher than in asymptomatic children with COVID-19. In addition, vitamin D deficiency and vitamin D disorder in children with moderate COVID-19 compared to the children with mild COVID-19 were estimated to be 2.12 (0.90, 4.98) and 1.82 (0.78, 4.22) respectively, which was higher than in children with mild COVID-19. Also, vitamin D deficiency and vitamin D disorder in children with mild COVID-19 compared to asymptomatic children with COVID-19 were estimated to be 2.02 (0.60, 6.78) and 1.64 (0.53, 5.07) respectively, which was higher than in asymptomatic children.

CONCLUSIONS: Combining the results of these studies, the effect size of the relationship between vitamin D and COVID-19 in children is significant. During the COVID-19 pandemic (except for the Omicron peak), children were less affected by the severity of COVID-19. The standardized mean difference (SMD) vitamin D level in children with COVID-19 was significantly 0.88 units lower than the control group. Also, the odds ratio of moderate COVID-19 in children with vitamin D deficiency was significantly 3.58 times higher than in asymptomatic children with COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40433383,
year = {2025},
author = {Xing, J and Zhao, X and Li, X and Fang, R and Sun, M and Zhang, Y and Song, N},
title = {The recent advances in vaccine adjuvants.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1557415},
pmid = {40433383},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adjuvants, Vaccine/pharmacology ; *Adjuvants, Immunologic/pharmacology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Animals ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; *Vaccines/immunology ; Oligodeoxyribonucleotides ; },
abstract = {Vaccine adjuvants, as key components in enhancing vaccine immunogenicity, play a vital role in modern vaccinology. This review systematically examines the historical evolution and mechanisms of vaccine adjuvants, with particular emphasis on innovative advancements in aluminum-based adjuvants, emulsion-based adjuvants, and nucleic acid adjuvants (e.g., CpG oligonucleotides). Specifically, aluminum adjuvants enhance immune responses through particle formation/antigen adsorption, inflammatory cascade activation, and T-cell stimulation. Emulsion adjuvants amplify immunogenicity via antigen depot effects and localized inflammation, while nucleic acid adjuvants like CpG oligonucleotides directly activate B cells and dendritic cells to promote Th1-type immune responses and memory T-cell generation. The article further explores the prospective applications of these novel adjuvants in combating emerging pathogens (including influenza and SARS-CoV-2), particularly highlighting their significance in improving vaccine potency and durability. Moreover, this review underscores the critical importance of adjuvant development in next-generation vaccine design and provides theoretical foundations for creating safer, effective adjuvant.},
}

Humans
*Adjuvants, Vaccine/pharmacology
*Adjuvants, Immunologic/pharmacology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Animals
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Immunogenicity, Vaccine
*Vaccines/immunology
Oligodeoxyribonucleotides

@article {pmid40037637,
year = {2025},
author = {Ashcroft, T and McSwiggan, E and Agyei-Manu, E and Nundy, M and Atkins, N and Kirkwood, JR and Ben Salem Machiri, M and Vardhan, V and Lee, B and Kubat, E and Ravishankar, S and Krishan, P and De Silva, U and Iyahen, EO and Rostron, J and Zawiejska, A and Ogarrio, K and Harikar, M and Chishty, S and Mureyi, D and Evans, B and Duval, D and Carville, S and Brini, S and Hill, J and Qureshi, M and Simmons, Z and Lyell, I and Kavoi, T and Dozier, M and Curry, G and Ordóñez-Mena, JM and de Lusignan, S and Sheikh, A and Theodoratou, E and McQuillan, R},
title = {Effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions as implemented in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid review.},
journal = {Journal of public health (Oxford, England)},
volume = {47},
number = {2},
pages = {268-302},
doi = {10.1093/pubmed/fdaf017},
pmid = {40037637},
issn = {1741-3850},
support = {//United Kingdom Health Security Agency/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Public Health ; *Communicable Disease Control/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although non-pharmaceutical inventions (NPIs) were used globally to control the spread of COVID-19, their effectiveness remains uncertain. We aimed to assess the evidence on NPIs as implemented in the UK, to allow public health bodies to prepare for future pandemics.

METHODS: We used rapid systematic methods (search date: January 2024) to identify, critically appraise and synthesize interventional, observational and modelling studies reporting on NPI effectiveness in the UK.

RESULTS: Eighty-five modelling, nine observational and three interventional studies were included. Modelling studies had multiple quality issues; six of the 12 non-modelling studies were high quality. The best available evidence was for test and release strategies for case contacts (moderate certainty), which was suggestive of a protective effect. Although evidence for school-related NPIs and universal lockdown was also suggestive of a protective effect, this evidence was considered low certainty. Evidence certainty for the remaining NPIs was very low or inconclusive.

CONCLUSION: The validity and reliability of evidence on the effectiveness of NPIs as implemented in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic is weak. To improve evidence generation and support decision-making during future pandemics or other public health emergencies, it is essential to build evaluation into the design of public health interventions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
United Kingdom/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics/prevention & control
Public Health
*Communicable Disease Control/methods

@article {pmid36573058,
year = {2024},
author = {Ramachandran, AK and Das, S and Shenoy, GG and Mudgal, J and Joseph, A},
title = {Relation between Apolipoprotein E in Alzheimer's Disease and SARS-CoV-2 and their Treatment Strategy: A Review.},
journal = {CNS & neurological disorders drug targets},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {9-20},
doi = {10.2174/1871527322666221226145141},
pmid = {36573058},
issn = {1996-3181},
support = {MC_PC_17228/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/genetics/metabolism ; *COVID-19/genetics/epidemiology/metabolism/complications ; *Apolipoproteins E/genetics/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Apolipoprotein E4/genetics ; },
abstract = {COVID-19, which primarily affects the pulmonary system, turned out to be a global pandemic, whereas the effects on other systems are still unknown. SARS-CoV-2, binds to angiotensinconverting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in the lungs, causing pneumonia-like symptoms. The same ACE receptors are also present in organs other than the lungs. Therefore, there is a need to study the impact of coronavirus on other human body organs. Recently, UK Biobank reports on the genetic risk factor of the virus attack. A double mutation in the apolipoprotein E (APOE4) allele has shown a significant role in COVID-19. The same APOE4 mutation has already been proven to hold a key role in developing early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD). Despite this data, Alzheimer's disease is believed to be a comorbidity of COVID-19. Previous virus attacks on the same viral family, Coronaviridae, produced neurological effects like neurodegeneration, neuronal inflammation, and other central nervous system-related dysfunctions. Since the long-term implications of COVID-19 are unknown, more research into the impact of the virus on the central nervous system is needed. Both COVID-19 and AD share a common genetic factor, so that AD patients may have a greater risk of SARS-CoV-2. Here, in this review, we have briefly discussed the role of APOE4 in the pathogenesis of AD and SARS-CoV-2, along with their treatment strategy, current scenario, and possible future directions.},
}

Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/genetics/metabolism
*COVID-19/genetics/epidemiology/metabolism/complications
*Apolipoproteins E/genetics/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Apolipoprotein E4/genetics

@article {pmid40432602,
year = {2025},
author = {Mikkelsen, K and Zaccagnini, M and Brunton, G and Hosseini, A and Tan, MC and Nonoyama, ML},
title = {Characteristics of Rapidly Manufactured Ventilators: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Respiratory care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/respcare.12549},
pmid = {40432602},
issn = {1943-3654},
abstract = {Many health care systems worldwide were ill-prepared for the mass-casualty surge caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mechanical ventilator shortages prompted the production of rapidly manufactured ventilators (RMVs). However, without standards to develop them, the effectiveness and safety of RMVs remain uncertain. The purpose of this study was to map the breadth and depth of the literature on RMVs and provide suggestions for effective and safe designs. A scoping review, following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, was completed. A search of 9 electronic databases and Google Scholar was completed in April 2022 and updated in 2024. Dual screening and data extraction were conducted using predefined criteria based on 6 previously published RMV guidance documents. Results were collated into descriptive summaries and tables and used to develop the suggested standards. There were 66 RMVs described within 66 articles. The majority (60, 91%) of articles were published post-COVID-19 (2020), with 24 (36%) from the United States. Four designs were identified: 18 (27%) electro-pneumatic (E-P), 27 (41%) automatic compression of manual resuscitator (MR), 6 (9%) automatic compression of MR with E-P components (E-P and MR), and 15 (23%) "other." The E-P designs mimicked conventional ventilators and MR designs incorporated an MR with a motor and arm. Four RMV characteristic categories emerged from the data: operating features, performance features, other features outside routine use, and engineering features. There was significant variability in the RMV designs. Eleven suggestions regarding RMV design, performance, and testing were developed. This study provides preliminary information to inform the standardization of RMV designs to guide future manufacturing for effective and safe use. Although pandemic urgency has waned, RMV utility may extend to future mass-casualty scenarios (eg, natural disasters, wars) and in low- and middle-income countries, which often lack sufficient resources even under normal conditions.},
}

@article {pmid40432133,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, J and Amin, MA and Campian, JL},
title = {Past, Present, and Future of Viral Vector Vaccine Platforms: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432133},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Over the past several decades, viral vector-based vaccines have emerged as some of the most versatile and potent platforms in modern vaccinology. Their capacity to deliver genetic material encoding target antigens directly into host cells enables strong cellular and humoral immune responses, often superior to what traditional inactivated or subunit vaccines can achieve. This has accelerated their application to a wide array of pathogens and disease targets, from well-established threats like HIV and malaria to emerging infections such as Ebola, Zika, and SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the agility of viral vector platforms, with several adenovirus-based vaccines quickly authorized and deployed on a global scale. Despite these advances, significant challenges remain. One major hurdle is pre-existing immunity against commonly used vector backbones, which can blunt vaccine immunogenicity. Rare but serious adverse events, including vector-associated inflammatory responses and conditions like vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), have raised important safety considerations. Additionally, scaling up manufacturing, ensuring consistency in large-scale production, meeting rigorous regulatory standards, and maintaining equitable global access to these vaccines present profound logistical and ethical dilemmas. In response to these challenges, the field is evolving rapidly. Sophisticated engineering strategies, such as integrase-defective lentiviral vectors, insect-specific flaviviruses, chimeric capsids to evade neutralizing antibodies, and plug-and-play self-amplifying RNA approaches, seek to bolster safety, enhance immunogenicity, circumvent pre-existing immunity, and streamline production. Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and prior outbreaks are guiding the development of platform-based approaches designed for rapid deployment during future public health emergencies. This review provides an exhaustive, in-depth examination of the historical evolution, immunobiological principles, current platforms, manufacturing complexities, regulatory frameworks, known safety issues, and future directions for viral vector-based vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40432119,
year = {2025},
author = {Iwu-Jaja, C and Ndwandwe, D and Malinga, T and Mathebula, L and Mazingisa, A and Wiysonge, CS},
title = {Vaccine Research Trends in Africa from 2016 to Mid-2024: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432119},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccine research publications play a crucial role in the scientific process by strategically linking the generation of knowledge with its translation into vaccine policy and practice. This study was designed to understand vaccine and immunization research publication trends in Africa to inform strategic directions for vaccine research and innovation efforts in the continent.

METHODS: We searched PubMed only for vaccine and immunization-related publications from Africa between 1 January 2016 and 8 August 2024. Metrics such as annual growth rates, geographical distribution, international collaboration, and trend topics were analyzed. We conducted separate analyses for general vaccine research, vaccine clinical trials, and vaccine evidence syntheses (systematic reviews and meta-analyses).

RESULTS: Vaccine research in Africa demonstrated an annual growth rate of 55.4% (based on the 10,000 records retrieved due to PubMed's export limit), while vaccine trials saw a decline of 6.08% during the study period. The trend topics analysis across vaccine research, trials, and reviews showed that topics shifted from a focus on general vaccine development, immunization, and malaria pre-2020 to COVID-19-related topics in 2020, with post-2020 research returning to traditional topics like immunization schedules, vaccine safety, and pediatric and maternal vaccines. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on vaccine research, leading to a surge in publications for vaccine research, trials, and reviews. About 65.8% of vaccine research featured international co-authorship. Vaccine trials had a higher rate of international co-authorship at 79.8%.

CONCLUSION: While vaccine research in general in Africa has increased, vaccine trials do not match this increase. The number of clinical trials remained relatively stagnant, reflecting ongoing challenges in the vaccine research ecosystem, particularly in building and sustaining clinical trial capacity across the region. In addition, disparities in research productivity exist between countries. Research prioritization, strategic collaborations, capacity building for research, and improved research infrastructure require critical consideration.},
}

@article {pmid40432106,
year = {2025},
author = {Sayedahmed, EE and Gairola, V and Murala, MST and Mittal, SK},
title = {Bovine Adenoviral Vector-Based Platform for Vaccine Development.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432106},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {AI059374/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI158177/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; Hatch#1014146//USDA/ ; },
abstract = {Adenoviral (AdV) vector-based vaccines employing the human AdV (HAdV) and chimpanzee AdV (ChAdV) vector platforms played a crucial role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the widespread use of these platforms, the prevalence of various HAdV types, and the resulting preexisting immunity have significantly impacted the vaccines utilizing these vector platforms. Considering these challenges, the bovine AdV type 3 (BAdV-3) vector system has emerged as a versatile and innovative platform for developing next-generation vaccines against infectious diseases. Inherent attributes like a high transduction efficiency, large transgene insertion capacity, broad tissue tropism, and robust induction of innate immunity add significant value to the BAdV vector platform for vaccine design. BAdV-3 vectors effectively elude HAdV-specific preexisting humoral and cellular immune responses. Additionally, BAdV-3 is low in pathogenicity for its host and is anticipated to be safe as a vaccine platform. This systematic review provides an overview of the development of BAdV-3 as a vaccine delivery platform and its application in designing vaccines for infectious agents of human and veterinary importance.},
}

@article {pmid40432093,
year = {2025},
author = {Lino, MM and Mather, S and Trani, M and Chen, Y and Caubel, P and De Bernardi, B},
title = {Challenges and Innovations in Pharmacovigilance and Signal Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Industry Perspective.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432093},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Vaccine marketing authorization holders (MAHs) are responsible for the conduction of global vaccine pharmacovigilance on their vaccine products. A safety signal is detected when a new adverse event (AE) or aspect of an AE occurs after exposure to the vaccine and warrants further investigation to determine whether a causal association may exist. Signal detection and evaluation (signal management) begins at the start of vaccine development, before an MAH submits an application for authorization to regulatory authorities, continues through the course of all clinical trials, and carries on beyond development into the post-marketing phase. As long as the vaccine remains authorized anywhere in the world, pharmacovigilance continues. During the time that the COVID-19 vaccine became widely available after authorization and approval, clinical trials were also ongoing, and therefore all clinical development and post-authorization safety information was closely monitored for safety by the MAH. MAH pharmacovigilance activities were adapted to manage the unprecedented volume of safety information that became available within a very short timeframe following worldwide vaccination campaigns. No vaccine had previously been administered to such a large number of individuals in such a short time, nor had there previously been a public health vaccine experience that was the subject of so many medical and non-medical writings. The MAH's COVID-19 vaccine signal detection methods included the continuous review of accruing clinical trial data and the quantitative and qualitative analyses of spontaneously reported experiences. Review of published and unpublished medical literature and epidemiology-based analyses such as observed vs. expected analysis based on reported adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) played key roles in pharmacovigilance and signal management. All methods of signal detection and evaluation have caveats, but when considered in totality, can advance our understanding of a vaccine's safety profile and therefore the risk-benefit considerations for vaccinating both individuals and large populations of people. All COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use were subject to an unprecedented level of pharmacovigilance by their individual MAHs, national regulatory authorities, public health organizations, and others during the years immediately following regulatory authorization and full approval. The intense worldwide focus on pharmacovigilance and the need for MAHs and regulatory/health authorities to quickly evaluate incoming safety information, spurred frequent and timely communications between national and regional health authorities and between MAHs and regulatory/health authorities, spotlighting a unique opportunity for individuals committed to patient safety to share important accruing safety information in a collegial and less traditionally formal manner than usual. The global pandemic precipitated by the SARS-CoV-2 virus created a significant impetus for MAHs to develop innovative vaccines to change the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacovigilance also had to meet unprecedented needs. In this article, unique aspects of COVID-19 vaccine pharmacovigilance encountered by one MAH will be summarized.},
}

@article {pmid40432085,
year = {2025},
author = {Skerritt, JH},
title = {Considerations for mRNA Product Development, Regulation and Deployment Across the Lifecycle.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432085},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {With the successful deployment of several mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, an mRNA vaccine against RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and a large pipeline of mRNA products against other infectious diseases, cancers and rare diseases, it is important to examine the whole product lifecycle. mRNA technology enables product design, testing and manufacturing systems to be rapidly developed, but these advantages can be lost if other factors that determine public access are not closely considered. This review analyzes key aspects of the mRNA product lifecycle including candidate design, manufacturing, quality systems and product safety and storage. Regulatory thinking is well advanced in some countries but not others, but more thought on the regulation of mRNA vaccines outside of a pandemic situation as well as mRNA therapeutics including individual neoantigen therapies and rare disease treatments is needed. Consumer acceptance-the "social license to operate" around mRNA products-is critical for their uptake, particularly outside of a pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40432077,
year = {2025},
author = {Franchini, M and Maggi, F and Focosi, D},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccination in Patients with Hematological Malignances.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432077},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {Programme CCM 2020 Ricerca Corrente-Linea 1 on emerging and re-emerging infections//italian ministry of health/ ; },
abstract = {Patients with hematologic malignancies (HM) represent a population particularly vulnerable to infections due to their cancer-related immune deficiency and the immunosuppressive treatment they are administered. Accordingly, a high hospitalization and mortality rate has been consistently reported in such a frail population during the first COVID-19 pandemic waves. After a brief description of the clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with blood cancers, this narrative review is focused on the protective effect of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with HM. All in all, the results from the literature analysis indicate that booster shots in fully vaccinated HM patients are significantly able to increase seroconversion rates, which represent the best surrogate of vaccine efficacy. Despite these encouraging data, concerns still remain regarding the lower immune responses to COVID-19 vaccines, even to booster doses, in severely immunosuppressed HM patients, such as those receiving anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapies and hematopoietic stem cell transplants.},
}

@article {pmid40432073,
year = {2025},
author = {Min Htike, WY and Zhang, M and Wu, Z and Zhou, X and Lyu, S and Kam, YW},
title = {Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy in College Students Post COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review Using COVID-19 as a Case Study.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432073},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {00AKUG0130//Division of Natural and Applied Sciences, Duke Kunshan University/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Resistance to vaccinations continues to pose a considerable challenge to attaining widespread vaccination, especially among the college student demographic, who are pivotal in championing public health initiatives. This systematic review investigates the elements that influence reluctance to receive the COVID-19 vaccine among university students globally. Utilizing the WHO's 3C model, which encompasses confidence, complacency, and convenience, this review seeks to pinpoint the main factors and suggest focused strategies to address them. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Global Health. Eligible studies were cross-sectional, peer-reviewed, and examined COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among college students. Covidence was used for screening, and data were synthesized narratively using the 3C model. Results: Sixty-seven studies (n = 88,345 participants) from 25 countries were included in this study. Confidence factors were the most influential, with fear of side effects (87.18%) and doubts about efficacy (72.4%) as primary concerns. Complacency factors included a low perceived risk of infection (34.9%) and a preference for alternative preventive measures (52.3%). Convenience barriers involved financial costs (58.1%) and difficulty accessing vaccination centers (40.3%). Subgroup analyses revealed variations by academic discipline and geographic region, with medical students showing hesitancy despite their health knowledge. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among college students is primarily driven by safety concerns, misinformation, and accessibility barriers. Addressing hesitancy requires transparent risk communication, policy-driven accessibility improvements, and tailored educational interventions. These findings can inform strategies to enhance vaccine uptake among young adults and contribute to broader efforts in pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid40432062,
year = {2025},
author = {Santilli, V and Sgrulletti, M and Costagliola, G and Beni, A and Mastrototaro, MF and Montin, D and Rizzo, C and Martire, B and Miraglia Del Giudice, M and Moschese, V and , },
title = {Maternal Immunization: Current Evidence, Progress, and Challenges.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432062},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Maternal immunization is a key strategy for protecting pregnant individuals and newborns from infectious diseases. This review examines the mechanisms and benefits of maternal immunization, with a focus on transplacental IgG transfer and immune system interactions. We provide an overview of current recommendations and the safety and efficacy profiles of maternal vaccines, including influenza, tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, and hepatitis B. Additionally, we analyze the barriers to maternal immunization, such as misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and disparities in healthcare access, while exploring potential strategies to overcome these challenges through targeted educational initiatives, improved provider communication, and policy-driven interventions aimed at increasing vaccine confidence and accessibility. Finally, this review highlights recent innovations and future directions in maternal immunization, including emerging vaccines for Group B Streptococcus and cytomegalovirus. Expanding immunization programs and advancing research on maternal-fetal immunity are essential to optimizing vaccination strategies, improving public health outcomes, and reducing the global burden of infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40378861,
year = {2025},
author = {Amstutz, A and Schandelmaier, S and Ewald, H and Speich, B and Schwenke, JM and Schönenberger, CM and Schobinger, S and Agoritsas, T and Tomashek, KM and Nayak, S and Makowski, M and Morales-Ortega, A and Bernal-Bello, D and Pomponio, G and Ferrarini, A and Ghazaeian, M and Hall, F and Bond, S and García-Morales, MT and Jiménez-González, M and Arribas, JR and Guimaraães, PO and Tavares, CAM and Berwanger, O and Yazdanpanah, Y and Simensen, VC and Lacombe, K and Hites, M and Ader, F and Tacconelli, E and Mentré, F and Belhadi, D and Massonnaud, CR and Laouénan, C and Diallo, A and Baldé, A and Assoumou, L and Costagliola, D and Ponzi, E and Rueegg, CS and Olsen, IC and Trøseid, M and Briel, M},
title = {Effects of Janus kinase inhibitors in adults admitted to hospital due to COVID-19: a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials.},
journal = {The Lancet. Respiratory medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {530-544},
doi = {10.1016/S2213-2600(25)00055-4},
pmid = {40378861},
issn = {2213-2619},
mesh = {Humans ; *Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/mortality ; Hospitalization ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pyrimidines/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Purines/therapeutic use ; Sulfonamides/therapeutic use ; Nitriles ; Azetidines/therapeutic use ; Piperidines/therapeutic use ; Pyrazoles/therapeutic use ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence from randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors-compared with usual care or placebo-in adults treated in hospital for COVID-19 is conflicting. We aimed to evaluate the benefits and harms of JAK inhibitors compared with placebo or usual care and whether treatment effects differed between prespecified participant subgroups.

METHODS: For this systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis (IPDMA), we searched Medline via Ovid, Embase via Elsevier, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, and the COVID-19 L·OVE Platform, including backward and forward citation searching (last search Nov 28, 2024), for RCTs (unpublished or published in any format and any language) that randomly assigned adults (aged ≥16 years) admitted to a hospital due to COVID-19 to receive either a JAK inhibitor (any type) or no JAK inhibitor (ie, received site-specific standard of care with or without placebo), and requested individual participant data (IPD) from the original trial teams. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at day 28 after random assignment. We used two-stage meta-analyses adjusting for age and respiratory support, and pooled estimates using random-effects models. The assessment of individual-level effect modifiers was based solely on within-trial information and continuous modifiers were investigated as both linear and non-linear interactions. We used the Instrument for Assessing the Credibility of Effect Modification Analyses to appraise the subgroup analyses and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to adjudicate the certainty of evidence. Grade 3 or 4 adverse events and serious adverse events by day 28, and adverse events of special interest within 28 days, were assessed among secondary outcomes. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023431817).

FINDINGS: We identified 16 eligible trials. IPD were obtained from 12 trials, corresponding to 12 902 adults admitted to hospital between May, 2020, and March, 2022. These trials represented 12 902 [96·1%] of 13 423 participants from all eligible trials worldwide. Seven trials evaluated baricitinib, three evaluated tofacitinib, and two evaluated ruxolitinib. Overall, 755 (11·7%) of 6465 participants in the JAK inhibitor group died by day 28 compared with 805 (13·2%) of 6108 participants in the no JAK inhibitor group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0·67 [95% CI 0·55-0·82]; high-certainty evidence; 39 fewer per 1000 [95% CI 55 fewer to 21 fewer]). JAK inhibitors decreased the need for new mechanical ventilation or other respiratory support and allowed for faster discharge from hospital by about 1 day. We observed fewer grade 3 and 4 adverse events and serious adverse events in the JAK inhibitor group (14 fewer per 1000 [95% CI 24 fewer to 4 fewer]; moderate-certainty evidence). The rates of adverse events of special interest were similar across both groups. No credible subgroup effect on mortality at day 28 was found for ventilation status, type of JAK inhibitor, presence of comorbidities, timing of treatment initiation after symptom onset, C-reactive protein concentration, or concomitant use of dexamethasone or tocilizumab. We found a moderately credible effect modification by age, with younger participants showing larger relative treatment effects than older participants, but similar absolute treatment effects due to higher baseline risk for older participants.

INTERPRETATION: This IPDMA of RCTs in adults admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 found that JAK inhibitors reduced mortality across all levels of respiratory support, independent of dexamethasone or tocilizumab, and probably decreased serious and severe adverse events compared with no JAK inhibitors.

FUNDING: This project has received funding from the EU's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement number 101015736.},
}

Humans
*Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/mortality
Hospitalization
SARS-CoV-2
Pyrimidines/therapeutic use
Adult
Purines/therapeutic use
Sulfonamides/therapeutic use
Nitriles
Azetidines/therapeutic use
Piperidines/therapeutic use
Pyrazoles/therapeutic use
Male
Female
Middle Aged

@article {pmid40432048,
year = {2025},
author = {Nembot Fogang, BA and Debrah, LB and Owusu, M and Agyei, G and Meyer, J and Gmanyami, JM and Ritter, M and Arndts, K and Adu Mensah, D and Adjobimey, T and Hörauf, A and Debrah, AY},
title = {Helminth Coinfections Modulate Disease Dynamics and Vaccination Success in the Era of Emerging Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13050436},
pmid = {40432048},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {81204851//Federal Ministry of Education and Research/ ; 2021//German West African Center for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention (GWAC)/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Helminth infections, particularly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, have been extensively studied for their effects on human health. With the emergence of new infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola, their impact on disease outcomes become more apparent. While individual studies have explored the impact of helminth co-infections on disease severity and vaccine efficacy, the findings are often inconsistent and context-dependent. Furthermore, the long-term effects of helminth-mediated immunosuppression on vaccine efficacy and its broader implications for co-infections in endemic regions remain not fully understood. Methods: This systematic review conducted in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines synthesizes the current evidence, identifies patterns, and highlights areas needing further research, offering a cohesive understanding of the topic. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library were searched to include studies published from 2003 to February 2025. Results: Co-infection reveals a dual role of helminths in modulating immune responses, with both beneficial and detrimental interactions reported across studies. It may confer benefits against respiratory viral infections by muting hyper-inflammation associated with the severity of conditions like COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV. However, they can exacerbate disease outcomes in most bacteria and blood-borne viral conditions by impairing immune functions, such as neutrophil recruitment and antibody response, leading to more severe infections and higher viral loads. The stage of helminth infection also appears critical, with early-stage infections sometimes offering protection, while late-stage infections may worsen disease outcomes. Helminth infection can also negatively impact vaccine efficacy by suppressing B cell activity, reducing antibody levels, and decreasing vaccine effectiveness against infectious diseases. This immunosuppressive effect may persist after deworming, complicating efforts to restore vaccine efficacy. Maternal helminth infections also significantly influence neonatal immunity, affecting newborn vaccine responses. Conclusions: There is a need for targeted interventions and further research in helminth-endemic regions to mitigate the adverse effects on vaccine efficacy and improve public health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40431734,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, DH and Kim, JH and Jeon, MT and Kim, KS and Kim, DG and Choi, IS},
title = {The Role of TDP-43 in SARS-CoV-2-Related Neurodegenerative Changes.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050724},
pmid = {40431734},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {25-BR-02-03//Korea Brain Research Institute/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism/virology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/virology/pathology/etiology ; Virus Replication ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been linked to long-term neurological effects with multifaceted complications of neurodegenerative diseases. Several studies have found that pathological changes in transactive response DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) are involved in these cases. This review explores the causal interactions between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and TDP-43 from multiple perspectives. Some viral proteins of SARS-CoV-2 have been shown to induce pathological changes in TDP-43 through its cleavage, aggregation, and mislocalization. SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause liquid-liquid phase separation and stress granule formation, which accelerate the condensation of TDP-43, resulting in host RNA metabolism disruption. TDP-43 has been proposed to interact with SARS-CoV-2 RNA, though its role in viral replication remains to be fully elucidated. This interaction potentially facilitates viral replication, while viral-induced oxidative stress and protease activity accelerate TDP-43 pathology. Evidence from both clinical and experimental studies indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to long-term neurological sequelae, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-like and frontotemporal dementia-like features, as well as increased phosphorylated TDP-43 deposition in the central nervous system. Biomarker studies further support the link between TDP-43 dysregulation and neurological complications of long-term effects of COVID-19 (long COVID). In this review, we presented a novel integrative framework of TDP-43 pathology, bridging a gap between SARS-CoV-2 infection and mechanisms of neurodegeneration. These findings underscore the need for further research to clarify the TDP-43-related neurodegeneration underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection and to develop therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating long-term neurological effects in patients with long COVID.},
}

Humans
*DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism/virology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/virology/pathology/etiology
Virus Replication
Animals

@article {pmid40431733,
year = {2025},
author = {Dinata, R and Baindara, P and Mandal, SM},
title = {Evolution of Antiviral Drug Resistance in SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050722},
pmid = {40431733},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Drug Repositioning ; Mutation ; Evolution, Molecular ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact and continues to alarm the entire world due to the rapid emergence of new variants, even after mass vaccinations. There is still an urgent need for new antivirals or strategies to combat the SARS-CoV-2 infections; however, we have success stories with nirmatrelvir. Drug repurposing and drug discovery may lead to a successful SARS-CoV-2 antiviral; however, rapid drug use may cause unexpected mutations and antiviral drug resistance. Conversely, novel variants of the SARS-CoV-2 can diminish the neutralizing efficacy of vaccines, thereby enhancing viral fitness and increasing the likelihood of drug resistance emergence. Additionally, the disposal of antivirals in wastewater also contributes to drug resistance. Overall, the present review summarizes the strategies and mechanisms involved in the development of drug resistance in SARS-CoV-2. Understanding the mechanism of antiviral resistance is crucial to mitigate the significant healthcare threat and to develop effective therapeutics against drug resistance.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Drug Repositioning
Mutation
Evolution, Molecular

@article {pmid40431702,
year = {2025},
author = {Mahdi, M and Kiarie, IW and Mótyán, JA and Hoffka, G and Al-Muffti, AS and Tóth, A and Tőzsér, J},
title = {Receptor Binding for the Entry Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2: Insights from the Original Strain and Emerging Variants.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050691},
pmid = {40431702},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {TKP2021-EGA-20//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH K132623//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; POST-COVID2021-33//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH Advanced Grant 150532//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; BO/00110/23/5//János Bolyai Research Scholarship of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences/ ; EKÖP-24-4-I-DE-435//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/physiology ; *Virus Internalization ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics ; *COVID-19/virology/transmission/metabolism ; *Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Mutation ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism ; Protein Binding ; },
abstract = {Since its emergence in late 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has continuously evolved, giving rise to multiple variants that have significantly altered the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic. These variants have resulted in multiple waves of the pandemic, exhibiting characteristic mutations in the spike (S) protein that may have affected receptor interaction, tissue tropism, and cell entry mechanisms. While the virus was shown to primarily utilize the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and host proteases such as transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) for entry into host cells, alterations in the S protein have resulted in changes to receptor binding affinity and use of alternative receptors, potentially expanding the virus's ability to infect different cell types or tissues, contributing to shifts in clinical presentation. These changes have been linked to variations in disease severity, the emergence of new clinical manifestations, and altered transmission dynamics. In this paper, we overview the evolving receptor utilization strategies of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on how mutations in the S protein may have influenced viral entry mechanisms and clinical outcomes across the ongoing pandemic waves.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/physiology
*Virus Internalization
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics
*COVID-19/virology/transmission/metabolism
*Receptors, Virus/metabolism
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Mutation
Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism
Protein Binding

@article {pmid40431631,
year = {2025},
author = {de Melo, BP and da Silva, JAM and Rodrigues, MA and Palmeira, JDF and Amato, AA and Argañaraz, GA and Argañaraz, ER},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Long COVID-Part 2: Understanding the Impact of Spike Protein and Cellular Receptor Interactions on the Pathophysiology of Long COVID Syndrome.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050619},
pmid = {40431631},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/physiopathology/complications/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/genetics/physiology ; *Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; Protein Binding ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection has had a significant impact on global health through both acute illness, referred to as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and chronic conditions (long COVID or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, PASC). Despite substantial advancements in preventing severe COVID-19 cases through vaccination, the rise in the prevalence of long COVID syndrome and a notable degree of genomic mutation, primarily in the S protein, underscores the necessity for a deeper understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms related to the S protein of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, the latest part of this series, we investigate the potential pathophysiological molecular mechanisms triggered by the interaction between the spike protein and cellular receptors. Therefore, this review aims to provide a differential and focused view on the mechanisms potentially activated by the binding of the spike protein to canonical and non-canonical receptors for SARS-CoV-2, together with their possible interactions and effects on the pathogenesis of long COVID.},
}

*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics
Humans
*COVID-19/virology/physiopathology/complications/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/genetics/physiology
*Receptors, Virus/metabolism
Protein Binding
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40431629,
year = {2025},
author = {de Melo, BP and da Silva, JAM and Rodrigues, MA and Palmeira, JDF and Saldanha-Araujo, F and Argañaraz, GA and Argañaraz, ER},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Long COVID-Part 1: Impact of Spike Protein in Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Long COVID Syndrome.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050617},
pmid = {40431629},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; *COVID-19/complications/virology/physiopathology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection has resulted in more than 700 million cases and nearly 7 million deaths worldwide. Although vaccination efforts have effectively reduced mortality and transmission rates, a significant proportion of recovered patients-up to 40%-develop long COVID syndrome (LC) or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 infection (PASC). LC is characterized by the persistence or emergence of new symptoms following initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, affecting the cardiovascular, neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and immune systems. Despite the broad range of clinical symptoms that have been described, the risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms behind LC remain unclear. This review, the first of a two-part series, is distinguished by the discussion of the role of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in the primary mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of LC.},
}

Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
*COVID-19/complications/virology/physiopathology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40431528,
year = {2025},
author = {Lunge, VR and Kipper, D and Streck, AF and Fonseca, ASK and Ikuta, N},
title = {Emergence and Dissemination of the Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus Lineages in Poultry Farms in South America.},
journal = {Veterinary sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vetsci12050435},
pmid = {40431528},
issn = {2306-7381},
support = {350153/2025-6//CNPq/ ; 303647/2023-0//CNPq/ ; },
abstract = {Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a chicken pathogen present in commercial poultry farms worldwide. It is classified within the species Avian coronavirus, genus Gammacoronavirus. As with other members of the family Coronaviridae, it has a single positive-sense RNA genome with 27.6 Kb and presents viral particles with a typical crown-like aspect due to the spike (S) transmembrane glycoprotein. IBV has a remarkable capacity for genetic recombination and mutation, resulting in many genotypes and antigenic variants over evolutionary time. Currently, it is classified into nine genetic types (GI to GIX) and 41 (1 to 41) lineages disseminated worldwide. In South America, IBV was first identified in early commercial poultry production ventures in Brazil in the 1950s. Since then, this virus has been frequently detected in commercial South American poultry farms, being classified into serotypes in the first decades and genotypes more recently. IBVs of the Massachusetts (Mass) serotype were initially detected and vaccine strains of this serotype were used extensively on commercial poultry farms. Other serotypes/genotypes were identified later, with almost all of them classified in the current genetic type I (GI). In addition, five GI lineages (GI-1, -11, -13, -16, and -23) have been associated with the main infectious bronchitis outbreaks in the continent, with some variations in the occurrence according to the countries and the period of time. Molecular epidemiological surveillance of IBV genetic types and lineages is necessary to anticipate potential outbreaks, revealing patterns of viral evolution and dissemination, as well as to guide the selection of appropriate vaccine strains and immunization programs.},
}

@article {pmid40431497,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubini, A and Di Via, R and Pastore, VP and Del Signore, F and Rosto, M and De Bonis, A and Odone, F and Vignoli, M},
title = {Artificial Intelligence in Chest Radiography-A Comparative Review of Human and Veterinary Medicine.},
journal = {Veterinary sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vetsci12050404},
pmid = {40431497},
issn = {2306-7381},
abstract = {The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into chest radiography (CXR) has greatly impacted both human and veterinary medicine, enhancing diagnostic speed, accuracy, and efficiency. In human medicine, AI has been extensively studied, improving the identification of thoracic abnormalities, diagnostic precision in emergencies, and the classification of complex conditions such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Deep learning-based models assist radiologists by detecting patterns, generating probability maps, and predicting outcomes like heart failure. However, AI is still supplementary to clinical expertise due to challenges such as data limitations, algorithmic biases, and the need for extensive validation. Ethical concerns and regulatory constraints also hinder full implementation. In veterinary medicine, AI is still in its early stages and is rarely used; however, it has the potential to become a valuable tool for supporting radiologists in the future. However, challenges include smaller datasets, breed variability, and limited research. Addressing these through focused research on species with less phenotypic variability (like cats) and cross-sector collaborations could advance AI in veterinary medicine. Both fields demonstrate AI's potential to enhance diagnostics but emphasize the ongoing need for human expertise in clinical decision making. Differences in anatomy structure between the two fields must be considered for effective AI adaptation.},
}

@article {pmid40431340,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhu, W and Wang, D and Li, P and Deng, H and Deng, Z},
title = {Advances in Wastewater-Based Epidemiology for Pandemic Surveillance: Methodological Frameworks and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13051169},
pmid = {40431340},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {8252030//Beijing Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a transformative approach for community-level health monitoring, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review critically examines the methodological framework of WBE systems through the following three core components: (1) sampling strategies that address spatial-temporal variability in wastewater systems, (2) comparative performance of different platforms in pathogen detection, and (3) predictive modeling integrating machine learning approaches. We systematically analyze how these components collectively overcome the limitations of conventional surveillance methods through early outbreak detection, asymptomatic case identification, and population-level trend monitoring. While highlighting technical breakthroughs in viral concentration methods and variant tracking through sequencing, the review also identifies persistent challenges, including data standardization, cost-effectiveness concerns in resource-limited settings, and ethical considerations in public health surveillance. Drawing insights from global implementation cases, we propose recommendations for optimizing each operational phase and discuss emerging applications beyond pandemic response. This review highlights WBE as an indispensable tool for modern public health, whose methodological refinements and cross-disciplinary integration are critical for transforming pandemic surveillance from reactive containment to proactive population health management.},
}

@article {pmid40431202,
year = {2025},
author = {Rampelotto, PH and Taufer, CR and da Silva, J},
title = {The Role of Beneficial Microbiota in COVID-19: Insights from Key Bacterial Genera.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13051029},
pmid = {40431202},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {88887.513461/2020-00//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 88887.798411/2022-00//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing disease severity and progression. Emerging research indicates that the human microbiota, particularly beneficial bacteria, significantly impacts immune responses and health outcomes in COVID-19 patients. While existing studies provide general insights into the relationship between the microbiota and probiotics with COVID-19, they often lack a detailed exploration of how specific bacterial taxa might be used as adjunctive treatments. This review aims to address this gap by focusing on ten key genera of beneficial bacteria, discussing their roles in COVID-19 and evaluating their potential as probiotics for prevention and treatment. The review covers the impact of these microbes on human health, their population alterations in COVID-19 patients, and their interactions with other viral infections. Among these microbes, several exhibit distinct patterns of abundance in COVID-19 patients, influencing disease outcomes and highlighting their potential roles in infection dynamics. In COVID-19 patients, populations of Akkermansia, Ruminococcus, and Roseburia are consistently reduced, while those of Faecalibacterium show a significant decline in more severe cases. Bacteroides presents varying effects depending on the species involved. Alterations in the abundance of Blautia and Lachnospiraceae are associated with increased inflammation and disease severity. Likewise, the depletion of Lachnospira and Coprococcus populations, both linked to anti-inflammatory effects, may exacerbate symptom severity. Oscillospira, though less studied, is connected to overall health and could have implications for viral infections. This review synthesizes the current understanding of these beneficial microbes to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiota to alleviate the impact of COVID-19 and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies involving microbiota modulation.},
}

@article {pmid40430901,
year = {2025},
author = {Spagnolo, F and Brugiapaglia, S and Perin, M and Intonti, S and Curcio, C},
title = {Anti-Cancer Drugs: Trends and Insights from PubMed Records.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics17050610},
pmid = {40430901},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {2022TRSH52//Progetti di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale-PRIN/ ; },
abstract = {Background: In recent years, there has been an exponential growth in global anti-cancer drug research, prompting the necessity for comprehensive analyses of publication output and thematic shifts. Methods: This study utilized a comprehensive set of PubMed records from 1962 to 2024 and examined growth patterns, content classification, and co-occurrence of key pharmacological and molecular terms. Results: Our results highlight an exponential rise in publications, with an annual compound growth rate of over 14%, influenced by advancements in digital knowledge sharing and novel therapeutic breakthroughs. A pronounced surge occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting a sustained shift in research dynamics. The content analyses revealed a strong emphasis on classical chemotherapeutic agents-often studied in combination with targeted therapies or immunotherapies-and a growing focus on immune checkpoint inhibitors and vaccine platforms. Furthermore, co-occurrence networks indicated robust links between chemotherapy and supportive care, as well as emerging synergies between immuno-oncology, precision medicine approaches. Conclusions: Our study suggests that while novel modalities are reshaping treatment paradigms, chemotherapy remains central, underscoring the value of integrative regimens. This trend toward personalized, combination-based strategies indicates a transformative era in oncology research, where multidimensional data assessment is instrumental in guiding future therapeutic innovations.},
}

@article {pmid40430786,
year = {2025},
author = {Valencia-Ledezma, OE and Reyes-Montes, MDR and Acosta-Altamirano, G and Frías-De-León, MG and García-Salazar, E and Duarte-Escalante, E and Santiago-Abundio, J and González-Miguel, Z and García-Hernández, ML and Martínez-Quezada, R and Torres-Páez, OU and Galindo-Oseguera, E and Meza-Meneses, P and Santiago-González, N},
title = {Invasive Candidiasis Coinfection in Patients with Severe COVID-19 Disease: Scoping Review.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14050466},
pmid = {40430786},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/microbiology ; *Coinfection/epidemiology/microbiology ; *Candidiasis, Invasive/epidemiology/microbiology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; Candida/isolation & purification/classification ; },
abstract = {Coinfection rates of candidiasis in patients affected by COVID-19 had a significantly increase during the sanitary contingency. The objective of this scoping review is to analyze the available scientific evidence around the coinfection of invasive candidiasis in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 disease. Online databases such as PubMed, EBSCO, SciFinder, Scopus, and SciELO were used to analyze the different scientific studies published from January 2020 to December 2022, selecting 48 publications that reported comorbidity between invasive candidiasis and COVID-19 as a study variable. Based on the PRISMA-ScR extension for scoping reviews, we identified more than half of the publications (57%) as observational, descriptive, and analytic studies, while 43% were systematic reviews. Overall, up to 169,468 adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit were examined. Coinfection was due mainly to Candida albicans (75%), but some more species were reported such as Meyerozyma parapsilosis (formerly Candida parapsilosis); Meyerozyma guilliermondii (formerly Candida guilliermondii); Nakaseomyces glabratus (formerly Candida glabrata); Candida tropicalis; Candida dubliniensis; Clavispora lusitaniae (formerly Candida lusitaniae); and Pichia kudriavzevii (formerly Candida krusei). We concluded that patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 had a higher incidence of fungal coinfections, thus increasing the mortality rate, disease severity, and length of hospital stay in the intensive care unit.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/microbiology
*Coinfection/epidemiology/microbiology
*Candidiasis, Invasive/epidemiology/microbiology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Intensive Care Units
Candida/isolation & purification/classification

@article {pmid40430385,
year = {2025},
author = {Ortega, Á and Duran, P and Garrido, B and Manzano, A and Navarro, C and Silva, A and Rojas, M and De Sanctis, JB and Radzioch, D and Rivera-Porras, D and Paredes, CS and Bermúdez, V},
title = {Specialized Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators in Pulmonary Diseases: Molecular and Therapeutic Implications.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30102212},
pmid = {40430385},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; COVID-19/metabolism ; *Lung Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism ; Docosahexaenoic Acids/therapeutic use/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Inflammatory lung diseases (ILDs) represent a global public health crisis characterized by escalating prevalence, significant morbidity, and substantial mortality. In response to the complex immunopathogenic mechanisms driving these conditions, novel pharmacological strategies targeting resolution pathways have emerged throughout the discovery of specialized pro-resolving lipid mediator (SPM; resolvins, maresins, and protectins) dysregulation across the ILD spectra, positioning these endogenous molecules as promising therapeutic candidates for modulating maladaptive inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Over the past decade, this paradigm has catalyzed extensive translational research into SPM-based interventions as precision therapeutics for respiratory inflammation. In asthma, they reduce mucus hypersecretion, bronchial hyperreactivity, and airway inflammation, with prenatal SPM exposure potentially lowering offspring disease risk. In COPD, SPMs attenuate amyloid A-driven inflammation, normalizing cytokine/chemokine imbalances and oxidative stress and mitigating COVID-19-associated cytokine storm, enhancing survival. This review synthesizes SPMs' pharmacotherapeutic mechanisms in ILDs and evaluates current preclinical and clinical evidence.},
}

Humans
Animals
COVID-19/metabolism
*Lung Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism
Docosahexaenoic Acids/therapeutic use/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy/metabolism

@article {pmid40430296,
year = {2025},
author = {Kubryń, N and Fijałkowski, Ł and Nowaczyk, J and Jamil, A and Nowaczyk, A},
title = {PROTAC Technology as a New Tool for Modern Pharmacotherapy.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30102123},
pmid = {40430296},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; Neoplasms/drug therapy/metabolism ; *Proteolysis/drug effects ; Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Design ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {The publication focuses on the innovative applications of PROTAC (proteolysis-targeting chimera) technology in modern pharmacotherapy, with particular emphasis on cancer treatment. PROTACs represent an advanced therapeutic strategy that enables selective protein degradation, opening new possibilities in drug design. This technology shows potential in the treatment of cancers, viral infections (such as HIV and COVID-19), and chronic diseases including atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, atopic dermatitis, and Huntington's disease. Promising results from clinical studies on the compound ARV-471 confirm the effectiveness of this approach. New types of PROTACs, like TF-PROTAC and PhosphoTAC, are designed to enhance the effectiveness, stability, and absorption of treatment drugs. The conclusions of the review highlight the broad therapeutic potential of PROTACs in various diseases and their relevance for the future of therapies, particularly in oncology.},
}

Humans
Neoplasms/drug therapy/metabolism
*Proteolysis/drug effects
Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Design
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40430232,
year = {2025},
author = {Ciortea, DA and Matei, MN and Debita, M and Lupu, A and Mătăsaru, M and Verga Răuță, GI and Fotea, S},
title = {Cardiac Manifestations and Emerging Biomarkers in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050805},
pmid = {40430232},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cardiac involvement is a key prognostic factor in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but serious inflammatory condition that typically occurs 2-6 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection and is characterized by fever, systemic inflammation, and multiorgan involvement. Biomarkers may aid in early detection, severity assessment, and treatment stratification.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic utility of established and emerging serum biomarkers in MIS-C, with an emphasis on cardiac dysfunction and disease severity.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 2025. Eligible studies included pediatric MIS-C cases with reported serum biomarkers. Meta-analyses were performed for NT-proBNP and troponin using random-effects models. Descriptive profiling was applied to emerging biomarkers. Subgroup comparisons were explored between severe and moderate MIS-C. Quality assessment followed the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and publication bias was assessed via funnel plots and Egger's test.

RESULTS: A total of 67 studies were included, comprising >4000 pediatric MIS-C cases. NT-proBNP and troponin were consistently elevated (pooled means: 9697 pg/mL and 0.384 ng/mL, respectively), with a low risk of publication bias. Emerging biomarkers such as CXCL9, angiopoietin-2, and vitamin D revealed high inter-study variability but potential prognostic value. Subgroup analyses for selected studies (n = 5) suggested higher biomarker levels in severe MIS-C.

CONCLUSIONS: NT-proBNP and troponin are robust indicators of cardiac injury in MIS-C. Emerging biomarkers show promise but require validation. Future studies should include copeptin and adopt standardized reporting to refine biomarker-guided management.},
}

@article {pmid40430210,
year = {2025},
author = {Gherman, A and Andrei, D and Popoiu, CM and Stoicescu, ER and Levai, MC and Stoian, II and Bloancă, V},
title = {Multidisciplinary Telemedicine in Healthcare During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050783},
pmid = {40430210},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), transforming healthcare delivery through telemedicine. This review examines the integration of telemedicine into multidisciplinary care across various medical specialties, highlighting its benefits and challenges. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords related to telemedicine and MDTs. Inclusion criteria focused on studies discussing telemedicine implementation in multidisciplinary care, as well as its effectiveness and impact on patient outcomes, while non-English studies, single-case reports, and articles lacking explicit discussions on MDT integration were excluded. Data extraction covered telemedicine platforms, specialties involved, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Our findings suggest that virtual MDTs enhance efficiency, accessibility, and patient satisfaction, particularly in remote and underserved areas. However, challenges, such as technological barriers, disparities in digital access, and maintaining effective team communication, persist. Despite these limitations, telemedicine has demonstrated significant potential in improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment coordination. Future efforts should focus on optimizing infrastructure, digital training for healthcare providers, and regulatory frameworks to guarantee long-term sustainability.},
}

@article {pmid40430160,
year = {2025},
author = {Caliman-Sturdza, OA and Gheorghita, RE and Soldanescu, I},
title = {Vitamin D and COVID-19: Clinical Evidence and Immunological Insights.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050733},
pmid = {40430160},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Vitamin D has emerged as a potential modulator of immune responses, sparking interest in its role in COVID-19 susceptibility and clinical outcomes. This review synthesizes current clinical evidence and explores immunological insights into the relationship between vitamin D levels and COVID-19 infection severity. Epidemiological studies indicate an inverse correlation between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Immunologically, vitamin D exerts regulatory effects on both innate and adaptive immunity, enhancing antimicrobial defense mechanisms, reducing excessive inflammatory responses, and potentially mitigating cytokine storm events observed in severe COVID-19 cases. Despite promising observational data, clinical trials evaluating vitamin D supplementation have shown mixed results, underscoring the need for standardized dosing regimens and patient stratification. Future research should focus on large-scale randomized controlled trials to conclusively determine the therapeutic potential and optimal supplementation strategies for vitamin D in managing COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40430154,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, TS and Chao, JY and Chang, HH and Lin, WR and Lin, WH},
title = {COVID-19 and Diabetes: Persistent Cardiovascular and Renal Risks in the Post-Pandemic Landscape.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050726},
pmid = {40430154},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), disproportionately affects individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) by exacerbating cardiovascular and renal complications. This increased risk is mediated through immune dysfunction, chronic inflammation, hyperglycemia, dysregulation of renin-angiotensin system dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, and hypercoagulability. Epidemiological studies indicate a two-fold increased risk of stroke and end-stage renal disease in SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals with diabetes, along with a 60% higher risk of cardiovascular disease. While antidiabetic therapies like sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists show potential protective effects, insulin use in hospitalized patients is linked to higher mortality. Vaccination is crucial in reducing severe COVID-19 outcomes and mitigating post-infection complications, including new-onset diabetes. While concerns exist regarding vaccine-associated nephropathy and thromboembolic events, these risks are thought to be minimal compared to the benefits. As COVID-19 shifts to an endemic phase, the long-term renal and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with DM remain uncertain, highlighting the urgent need for continued research and targeted management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40430138,
year = {2025},
author = {Modiga, A and Butiurca, VO and Boeriu, CM and Truta, TS and Turucz, E and Halațiu, VB and Rodean, IP and Russu, PC and Gherghinescu, MC and Molnar, C},
title = {Pathophysiological Mechanisms Linking COVID-19 and Acute Surgical Abdomen: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050707},
pmid = {40430138},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Acute surgical abdomen is characterized by intense, sudden abdominal pain due to intra-abdominal conditions requiring prompt surgical intervention. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to various complications related to the disease's complex pathophysiological mechanisms, hence the hypothesis of COVID-19-induced acute abdominal surgical pathologies. The connection between acute surgical abdomen and COVID-19 involves two primary mechanisms. First, there is the presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in multiple abdominal organs. This facilitates the cytokine storm through direct viral injury and inflammation. Second, the hypercoagulable state induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) increases the thrombotic risk within abdominal vessels, which can subsequently lead to ischemia. ACE2 receptors are notably expressed in the gastric, duodenal, and rectal epithelium, with SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA and nucleocapsid proteins detected in these tissues. The inflammatory response results in significant endothelial damage, activating coagulation pathways that cause monocellular infiltration, lymphocytic inflammation, and uncontrolled coagulation. These findings highlight the need for further research to clarify how COVID-19 leads to acute abdominal pathologies. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for improving clinical management and patient outcomes during future health crises and in the aftermath of the pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40430032,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, PG and Lee, SY and Youn, H and Hong, KJ},
title = {Promising Vaccine Formulations for Emerging Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26104893},
pmid = {40430032},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {NRF-2020R1A2C2011695//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; 22213MFDS421//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; RS-2023-00217026//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; RS-2024-00331833//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; HI22C0009//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; HV22C0004//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are one of the greatest threats to human health today, thus requiring an urgent response. Vaccines are one of the most effective means of preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and their usefulness in responding to EIDs has been clearly proven through the process of overcoming the global COVID-19 pandemic. As the characteristics of various vaccine formulations differ, it is necessary to apply the most appropriate one according to the EID response strategy. In this review, we first consider which vaccine formulation is the most suitable for EID vaccines by comparing the pros and cons of different vaccine formulations, and then we discuss the utility of mRNA vaccine formulations, which are considered the most promising for EID vaccines.},
}

Humans
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40428732,
year = {2025},
author = {Hărșan, ST and Sin, AI},
title = {The Involvement and Manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 Virus in Cardiovascular Pathology.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medicina61050773},
pmid = {40428732},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/virology/physiopathology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Although the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, the emergence of the post-COVID-19 condition presents a new and complex public health challenge, characterized by persistent, multisystem symptoms that can endure for weeks or months after the initial infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, significantly affecting survivors' quality of life. Among the most concerning sequelae are cardiovascular complications, which encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, including arrhythmias, myocardial damage, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. This narrative review explores the burden of the SARS-CoV-2 infection on cardiovascular health by reviewing the latest and most relevant findings in the literature and highlighting different aspects of COVID-19's cardiovascular involvement. This review investigates the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cardiovascular involvement in the post-COVID-19 condition, with a focus on direct viral invasion via ACE2 receptors, immune-mediated cardiovascular injury, cytokine storm, systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial injury. The interplay between pre-existing cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation, and COVID-19 is also explored, revealing that individuals with such conditions are at heightened risk for both severe acute illness and long-term complications. Long-term immune activation and the persistence of viral antigens are increasingly recognized as contributors to ongoing cardiovascular damage, even in individuals with mild or asymptomatic initial infections. As the healthcare system continues to adapt to the long-term consequences of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a deeper understanding of these cardiovascular manifestations is essential. This knowledge will inform the development of targeted strategies for prevention, clinical management, and rehabilitation of affected patients. Furthermore, the insights gained from the intersection of COVID-19 and cardiovascular health will be instrumental in shaping responses to future viral epidemics, highlighting the necessity for multidisciplinary approaches to patient care and public health preparedness.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Cardiovascular Diseases/virology/physiopathology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40428193,
year = {2025},
author = {Hsu, NC and Lin, YF and Tsai, HB and Liao, C and Hsu, CH},
title = {Ten Questions on Using Lung Ultrasonography to Diagnose and Manage Pneumonia in Hospital-at-Home Model: Part II-Confounders and Mimickers.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diagnostics15101200},
pmid = {40428193},
issn = {2075-4418},
abstract = {The hospital-at-home (HaH) model offers hospital-level care within patients' homes and has proven effective for managing conditions such as pneumonia. The point-of-care ultrasonography (PoCUS) is a key diagnostic tool in this model, especially when traditional imaging modalities are unavailable. This review explores how PoCUS can be optimized to manage pneumonia in HaH settings, focusing on its diagnostic accuracy in patients with comorbidities, differentiation from mimickers, and role in assessing disease severity. Pulmonary comorbidities, such as heart failure and interstitial lung disease (ILD), can complicate lung ultrasound (LUS) interpretation. In heart failure, combining lung, cardiac, and venous assessments (e.g., IVC collapsibility, VExUS score) improves diagnostic clarity. In ILD, distinguishing chronic changes from acute infections requires attention to B-line patterns and pleural abnormalities. PoCUS must differentiate pneumonia from conditions such as atelectasis, lung contusion, cryptogenic organizing pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and neoplastic lesions-many of which present with similar sonographic features. Serial LUS scoring provides useful information on pneumonia severity and disease progression. Studies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, show correlations between worsening LUS scores and poor outcomes, including increased ventilator dependency and mortality. Furthermore, LUS scores correlate with inflammatory markers and gas exchange metrics, supporting their prognostic value. In conclusion, PoCUS in HaH care requires clinicians to integrate multi-organ ultrasound findings, clinical context, and serial monitoring to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Mastery of LUS interpretation in complex scenarios is crucial to delivering personalized, high-quality care in the home setting.},
}

@article {pmid40428133,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheng, Y and Cheng, R and Xu, T and Tan, X and Bai, Y},
title = {Machine Learning Techniques Applied to COVID-19 Prediction: A Systematic Literature Review.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering12050514},
pmid = {40428133},
issn = {2306-5354},
support = {202103021224195//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 202103021223189//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 202103021224212//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 20210302123019//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 61774137//National Science Foundation of China, China/ ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 was one of the most serious global public health emergencies in recent years, and its extremely fast spreading speed had a profound negative impact on society. A comprehensive analysis and prediction of COVID-19 could lay a theoretical foundation for monitoring and early warning systems. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, there has been an influx of research on predictive modelling, with artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, particularly machine learning (ML) methods, becoming the dominant research direction due to their superior capability in processing multidimensional datasets and capturing complex nonlinear transmission patterns. We systematically reviewed COVID-19 ML prediction models developed under the background of the epidemic using the PRISMA method. We used the selected keywords to screen the relevant literature of COVID-19 prediction using ML technology from 2020 to 2023 in the Web of Science, Springer and Elsevier databases. Based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 136 eligible studies were ultimately selected from 5731 preliminarily screened publications, and the datasets, data preprocessing, ML models, and evaluation metrics used in these studies were assessed. By establishing a multi-level classification framework that included traditional statistical models (such as ARIMA), ML models (such as SVM), deep learning (DL) models (such as CNN, LSTM), ensemble learning methods (such as AdaBoost), and hybrid models (such as the fusion architecture of intelligent optimization algorithms and neural networks), it revealed that the hybrid modelling strategy effectively improved the prediction accuracy of the model through feature combination optimization and model cascade integration. In addition, we compared the performance of ML models with other models in the COVID-19 prediction task. The results showed that the propagation of COVID-19 is affected by multiple factors, including meteorological and socio-economic conditions. Compared to traditional methods, ML methods demonstrated significant advantages in COVID-19 prediction, especially hybrid modelling strategies, which showed great potential in optimizing accuracy. However, these techniques face challenges and limitations despite their strong performance. By reviewing existing research on COVID-19 prediction, this study provided systematic theoretical support for AI applications in infectious disease prediction and promoted technological innovation in public health.},
}

@article {pmid40428099,
year = {2025},
author = {Jadhav, K and Abhang, A and Kole, EB and Gadade, D and Dusane, A and Iyer, A and Sharma, A and Rout, SK and Gholap, AD and Naik, J and Verma, RK and Rojekar, S},
title = {Peptide-Drug Conjugates as Next-Generation Therapeutics: Exploring the Potential and Clinical Progress.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering12050481},
pmid = {40428099},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {Peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) have emerged as a next-generation therapeutic platform, combining the target specificity of peptides with the pharmacological potency of small-molecule drugs. As an evolution beyond antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), PDCs offer distinct advantages, including enhanced cellular permeability, improved drug selectivity, and versatile design flexibility. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the fundamental components of PDCs, including homing peptide selection, linker engineering, and payload optimization, alongside strategies to address their inherent challenges, such as stability, bioactivity, and clinical translation barriers. Therapeutic applications of PDCs span oncology, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and emerging areas like COVID-19, with several conjugates advancing in clinical trials and achieving regulatory milestones. Innovations, including bicyclic peptides, supramolecular architectures, and novel linker technologies, are explored as promising avenues to enhance PDC design. Additionally, this review examines the clinical trajectory of PDCs, emphasizing their therapeutic potential and highlighting ongoing trials that exemplify their efficacy. By addressing limitations and leveraging emerging advancements, PDCs hold immense promise as targeted therapeutics capable of addressing complex disease states and driving progress in precision medicine.},
}

@article {pmid40427985,
year = {2025},
author = {Bernuzzi, C and Piccardo, MA and Guglielmetti, C},
title = {Mapping Research Trends on the Implications of Telemedicine for Healthcare Professionals: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13101149},
pmid = {40427985},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {//MUSA-Multilayered Urban Sustainability Action-project, funded by the European Un-ion-NextGenerationEU, under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP)/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The digital transformation in healthcare is reshaping care delivery by enhancing patient care and flexibility. However, it also poses potential challenges to healthcare professionals' wellbeing and work practices. To date, research on the implications of telemedicine for healthcare professionals remains limited and inconclusive. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of this research field using a quantitative, bibliometric approach. Methods: Articles were systematically selected from Web of Science and Scopus databases, focusing on empirical, peer-reviewed articles written in English, involving healthcare professionals and focusing on telemedicine. Results: The dataset consists of 160 papers. The analysis reveals a significant increase in publications starting from 2012, with a notable surge in 2020, reflecting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The University of New Mexico and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, both in the United States, were identified as the institutions with the highest number of published articles. Most studies were published in clinical-focused journals (e.g., Journal of Medical Internet Research and BMC Health Services Research), emphasizing the field's dominant orientation. The intellectual structure reveals that wellbeing, work practices, and communications between patients and professionals are central themes. Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis provides scholars with a clearer understanding of the intellectual structure of research on the implications of telemedicine for healthcare professionals, addressing key gaps left by previous reviews. While telemedicine offers numerous advantages, such as enhanced access to care and greater flexibility, it also raises challenges related to healthcare professionals' wellbeing, work practices, and communication with patients. Both contextual factors (e.g., digital skills training) and individual characteristics (e.g., attitudes toward telemedicine) play a significant role in shaping healthcare professionals' experiences with telemedicine. By identifying influential contributors and thematic patterns, this study offers a foundation for future research and informs the development of targeted interventions to sustain healthcare professionals in digitally mediated care environments.},
}

@article {pmid40427984,
year = {2025},
author = {D'Ardes, D and Deana, C and Boccatonda, A and Biasucci, DG and Cipollone, F and Castro-Sayat, M and Colaianni-Alfonso, N and Gallardo, A and Vetrugno, L},
title = {Lung Ultrasound After COVID-19: A Pivotal Moment for Clinical Integration-Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13101148},
pmid = {40427984},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Lung ultrasound (LUS) has emerged as a valuable bedside decision-making tool, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, with applications in diagnosing pneumonia, managing fluid, and monitoring interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), ultimately improving patient outcomes. Its repeatability, environmental safety, and reduced radiation exposure make it ideal for vulnerable populations and resource-limited settings. However, challenges such as inadequate documentation and a lack of standardized reporting formats limit its widespread adoption. The evolution of technology offers different possibilities, and improvements in software open up a range of possibilities, but this contrasts with the lack of postgraduate and undergraduate training and formal accreditation. This review addresses the impact of lung ultrasound through the course of air-liquid ratio impairment, crossing different clinical scenarios and exploring the challenges and opportunities for the implementation of lung ultrasound in the post-COVID era.},
}