@article {pmid40360908,
year = {2025},
author = {Vidiyala, N and Sunkishala, P and Parupathi, P and Nyavanandi, D},
title = {The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery and Pharmaceutical Development: A Paradigm Shift in the History of Pharmaceutical Industries.},
journal = {AAPS PharmSciTech},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {133},
pmid = {40360908},
issn = {1530-9932},
mesh = {*Artificial Intelligence/trends ; *Drug Industry/methods/trends ; *Drug Discovery/methods/trends ; Humans ; *Drug Development/methods/trends ; COVID-19 ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; },
abstract = {In today's world, with an increasing patient population, the need for medications is increasing rapidly. However, the current practice of drug development is time-consuming and requires a lot of investment by the pharmaceutical industries. Currently, it takes around 8-10 years and $3 billion of investment to develop a medication. Pharmaceutical industries and regulatory authorities are continuing to adopt new technologies to improve the efficiency of the drug development process. However, over the decades the pharmaceutical industries were not able to accelerate the drug development process. The pandemic (COVID-19) has taught the pharmaceutical industries and regulatory agencies an expensive lesson showing the need for emergency preparedness by accelerating the drug development process. Over the last few years, the pharmaceutical industries have been collaborating with artificial intelligence (AI) companies to develop algorithms and models that can be implemented at various stages of the drug development process to improve efficiency and reduce the developmental timelines significantly. In recent years, AI-screened drug candidates have entered clinical testing in human subjects which shows the interest of pharmaceutical companies and regulatory agencies. End-end integration of AI within the drug development process will benefit the industries for predicting the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, toxicity, acceleration of clinical trials, study design, virtual monitoring of subjects, optimization of manufacturing process, analyzing and real-time monitoring of product quality, and regulatory preparedness. This review article discusses in detail the role of AI in various avenues of the pharmaceutical drug development process, its limitations, regulatory and future perspectives.},
}

*Artificial Intelligence/trends
*Drug Industry/methods/trends
*Drug Discovery/methods/trends
Humans
*Drug Development/methods/trends
COVID-19
History, 20th Century
History, 21st Century

@article {pmid40359841,
year = {2025},
author = {Chahat, and Kumar, B and Gupta, S and Wahajuddin, M and Joshi, G},
title = {Reconnecting the roots of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) with medicinal chemistry: Lessons accomplished and challenges so far.},
journal = {Bioorganic chemistry},
volume = {161},
number = {},
pages = {108569},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioorg.2025.108569},
pmid = {40359841},
issn = {1090-2120},
abstract = {Previously known for its unpleasant odour and mortality in elevated concentrations, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is currently considered a complex molecule having significant physiological advantages. After nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO), H2S is regarded as the third endogenous gasotransmitter, performing many biological functions in the human body. The essential functions include but are not limited to regulating inflammation, maintaining the redox potential, cellular signalling, and metabolic processes. Moreover, an imbalance in its expression or dysfunction of its precursors and associated enzymes in its biosynthesis leads to multiple pathological conditions, including cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, COVID-19, etc. Nonetheless, its upregulation is also reported to dysregulate normal physiological conditions and precipitate different diseases and cancer, thus acting as a "Double-edged sword." Despite this, H2S is still being widely explored for its therapeutic potential in various disease states. The present review is put forth to focus on hydrogen sulfide's dichotomous properties, emphasising its critical functions and therapeutic applications. This compilation provides a state-of-the-art analysis of the broad application of H2S donors in developing therapeutic interventions, release mechanisms, and their use in numerous diseases and disorders. Furthermore, various analytical techniques for detecting and quantifying the H2S release in biological samples via the hybrid donors are also discussed. We herein expect that an in-depth comprehension of the multiple activities of H2S can aid in discovering novel therapeutic interventions critical for holistic disease management measures in the future.},
}

@article {pmid40359650,
year = {2025},
author = {Acharya, A and Byrareddy, SN},
title = {Immunological insights into the re-emergence of human metapneumovirus.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {94},
number = {},
pages = {102562},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102562},
pmid = {40359650},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a seasonal respiratory virus that typically causes mild, flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe respiratory complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis, often requiring hospitalization. Recently, a surge in hMPV cases has been reported in China and other countries, raising concerns about a potential pandemic scenario reminiscent of COVID-19. This review explores the genomic structure, replication cycle, genetic diversity, and evolutionary trajectory of hMPV. It also discusses host immune responses and the available animal models to study pathogenesis and to screen for potential vaccines and antivirals. Additionally, we examine the shifting seasonal trends in hMPV circulation, evaluate the low pandemic risk posed by existing hMPV clades, and underscore the need for continued vaccine and antiviral development. Finally, we advocate for strengthened global surveillance, especially in low- and middle-income countries, as a critical strategy to mitigate the risks posed by emerging hMPV clades.},
}

@article {pmid40359057,
year = {2025},
author = {Moore, J and Sanon, R and Khudyakov, Y and Barnes, N},
title = {Strategies and Opportunities to Improve Community Health through Advanced Molecular Detection and Genomic Surveillance of Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Emerging infectious diseases},
volume = {31},
number = {13},
pages = {9-13},
doi = {10.3201/eid3113.241408},
pmid = {40359057},
issn = {1080-6059},
mesh = {Humans ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology/diagnosis/genetics ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; *Public Health ; *Genomics/methods ; Population Surveillance ; },
abstract = {Advanced molecular detection (AMD) refers to the integration of next-generation sequencing, epidemiologic, and bioinformatics data to drive public health actions. As new AMD technologies emerge, it is critical to ensure those methods are used in communities that are most affected by disease-induced illness and death. We describe strategies and opportunities for using AMD approaches to improve health in those communities, which include improving access to pathogen sequencing, increasing data linkages, and using pathogen sequencing for those diseases where sequencing technologies can provide the best health outcome. Such strategies can help address and prevent differences in health outcomes in various populations, such as rural and tribal communities, persons with underlying health issues, and other populations that experience higher risks for infectious disease.},
}

Humans
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology/diagnosis/genetics
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
*Public Health
*Genomics/methods
Population Surveillance

@article {pmid40358208,
year = {2025},
author = {Broadbent, A},
title = {A veterinary virapalooza: a summary of the 2024 American Society for Virology (ASV) Veterinary/Zoonotic Virology Satellite Symposium and online H5N1 panel discussion.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0049925},
doi = {10.1128/jvi.00499-25},
pmid = {40358208},
issn = {1098-5514},
abstract = {The year 2024 saw veterinary/zoonotic virology take center stage once more as the American Society for Virology (ASV) hosted a satellite symposium on the subject in June and an online panel discussion in December. The symposium comprised six talks from experts on viruses of economic importance to agriculture and of public health importance. The viruses in question spanned foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV), African swine fever virus (ASFV), Marek's disease virus (MDV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and influenza A viruses (IAVs), and topics covered fundamental virology, applied virology, epidemiology, and surveillance. The goal was to emphasize that improving the control of animal viral diseases requires an integrated, holistic approach involving academia, government, and industry labs undertaking research on basic virology, vaccinology, epidemiology, and surveillance. Moreover, the symposium aimed to highlight career opportunities in the agricultural/veterinary sector for those with virology training. Six months following the symposium, the ASV held an online panel discussion on the ongoing H5N1 IAV situation in poultry, cattle, and people to provide more up-to-date information to its membership. A summary of the talks and discussions is presented here.},
}

@article {pmid40357564,
year = {2025},
author = {Amer, M and Møller, MH and Granholm, A and Alotaibi, HF and AlMuhaidib, S and Al Duhailib, Z and Arafat, A and Chew, MS and Rehn, M and Sigurðsson, MI and Kalliomäki, ML and Olkkola, KT and Jalkanen, V and Szczeklik, W and Alshaqaq, HM and Lewis, K and Carayannopoulos, KL and Honarmand, K and Chaudhuri, D and Alquraini, M and Amer, YS and Alshamsi, F and Alhazzani, W},
title = {A systematic methodological evaluation of sepsis guidelines: Protocol for quality assessment and consistency of recommendations.},
journal = {Acta anaesthesiologica Scandinavica},
volume = {69},
number = {6},
pages = {e70036},
pmid = {40357564},
issn = {1399-6576},
mesh = {*Sepsis/therapy ; Humans ; Systematic Reviews as Topic ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic/standards ; Research Design ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sepsis is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, characterized by a dysregulated host response to infection. Despite the development of multiple clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to standardize sepsis management, substantial variability exists in methodological quality and key clinical recommendations. This inconsistency complicates guideline implementation and potentially affects patient outcomes. The proposed systematic methodological review aims to evaluate the quality and consistency of sepsis guidelines to identify areas for improvement and provide actionable insights for guideline developers.

METHODS: This protocol outlines a systematic methodological review of sepsis CPGs published over the last two decades (2004-2025). A comprehensive search strategy will be conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and the official websites of professional societies to identify relevant guidelines. The inclusion criteria are CPGs targeting adult sepsis management published by recognized medical or governmental organizations with detailed methodological descriptions. We will use the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument to assess methodological quality across six domains: scope and purpose, stakeholder involvement, rigor of development, clarity of presentation, applicability, and editorial independence. Data extraction will focus on key clinical recommendations, including fluid resuscitation, antimicrobial therapy, vasopressor and inotrope use, corticosteroids, source control, blood glucose management, hemodynamic management, and mechanical ventilation management. The consistency of the recommendations will be analyzed, and trends in guideline quality over time will be evaluated. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools will be evaluated for data extraction processes in systematic reviews to determine their capacity for efficiency and accuracy in extracting data compared to human-driven methods.

CONCLUSION: By systematically appraising the quality and consistency of sepsis guidelines, this review aims to address the existing gaps and discrepancies in guideline development and application. These findings will provide valuable insights into the evolution of sepsis guideline quality, highlight areas for improvement, and support the development of more robust evidence-based recommendations. These results will inform clinicians and guideline developers, ultimately enhancing the standardization and effectiveness of sepsis management worldwide. Integrating AI into the review process represents a novel methodological advancement that streamlines data extraction and analysis.},
}

*Sepsis/therapy
Humans
Systematic Reviews as Topic
*Practice Guidelines as Topic/standards
Research Design

@article {pmid40135269,
year = {2025},
author = {Dahlén, E and Bergman Perland, E and Maria Bergsten, E and Arthurson, V and Kimland, E},
title = {[The use of melatonin continues to increase - rational prescribing and follow-up is important].},
journal = {Lakartidningen},
volume = {122},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40135269},
issn = {1652-7518},
mesh = {*Melatonin/therapeutic use/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Humans ; Child ; COVID-19 ; Adolescent ; Sweden ; Off-Label Use ; Practice Patterns, Physicians' ; Drug Prescriptions/statistics & numerical data ; Adult ; Dietary Supplements ; Nonprescription Drugs ; Jet Lag Syndrome/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {The prescribing of melatonin continues to increase and occurs partially off-label. The largest increase is among children aged 6-17 years. During the COVID pandemic, the over-the-counter sales of melatonin increased despite jet lag in adults being the only approved indication. The Swedish Medical Products Agency notes an increased interest in melatonin and signals of unwarranted sale of melatonin as a dietary supplement. There is a risk that melatonin medications are used too casually. In addition, knowledge of the long-term effects of melatonin use is scarce. The increasing use of melatonin needs to be highlighted and monitored to ensure rational use.},
}

*Melatonin/therapeutic use/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Humans
Child
COVID-19
Adolescent
Sweden
Off-Label Use
Practice Patterns, Physicians'
Drug Prescriptions/statistics & numerical data
Adult
Dietary Supplements
Nonprescription Drugs
Jet Lag Syndrome/drug therapy

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

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/transmission
Global Health
*Tuberculosis/epidemiology/transmission/diagnosis/complications
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Coinfection/epidemiology/microbiology
Pandemics
Mycobacterium tuberculosis/pathogenicity

@article {pmid39970940,
year = {2025},
author = {Iijima, K and Akishita, M and Endo, T and Ichikawa, T and Ozaki, N and Ogasawara, K and Kihara, Y and Kuzuya, M and Komatsu, H and Terasaki, H and Doki, Y and Noguchi, H and Nishi, K and Nishimura, Y and Haga, N and Miyachi, M and Yasumura, S and Wake, J and Arai, H},
title = {Reconstruction of a resilient and secure community and medical care system in the coronavirus era - English translation of the Japanese opinion released from the Science Council of Japan.},
journal = {Geriatrics & gerontology international},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {481-490},
pmid = {39970940},
issn = {1447-0594},
mesh = {Aged ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; Japan/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Over 3 years have passed since the outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a disease associated with a high risk of severe illness and death among older individuals. This period has brought to light regional and social issues, including issues in overall and regional healthcare, that existed before the epidemic. "COVID-19-related frailty" is defined as secondary damage to health caused by inactivity and disconnection from human interaction owing to prolonged isolation among older individuals. Now in its fourth year, COVID-19 cannot be taken lightly, even though it is now a Category 5 infectious disease. Looking at it from the perspective of the Corona (COVID-19)/post-Corona (COVID-19) era and society, it is necessary to reconstruct regional communities in which active residents can resume their activities, a resilient regional society from multiple perspectives, and a medical and care system that can give the public a sense of security, all of which will lead to the development of local communities.

Weak healthcare systems in emergencies such as emerging infectious diseases and disasters The COVID-19 pandemic has posed challenges in the management of older individuals in Japan. These challenges are common to those encountered with other emerging infectious diseases and disasters; however, the pandemic has emphasized the vulnerability of older adults. End-of-life care and advance care planning do not function during a contingency The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant effect on the end-of-life (EOL) care of older adults, with the lack of implementation and dysfunction of advance care planning (ACP) identified as the biggest factors. This has made it difficult for this population to share their values, intentions, and life goals with their families and healthcare providers. Inadequate use of information and communication technology and the latest technologies Disparity in the digital field (digital divide) is more pronounced among older individuals. Consequently, the benefits of new technologies, such as digitalization and robotics, have not fully reached older individuals, leading to social isolation and frailty in this population. Various secondary health outcomes have emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic The influence of misinformation and disinformation following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated secondary health outcomes, as excessive isolation in life has become prolonged. The inability of older individuals to screen information is a source of major concern. Furthermore, older adults are generally vulnerable to information technology and often face difficulty in accessing correct information. Lack of human resources in the field of public health The promotion of vaccine development, therapeutic drug development, and measures to prevent serious illnesses among older adults remain major challenges, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. Information gathering and analysis during normal times are also important issues in the public health, medical care, and nursing care sectors. A shortage of human resources for this purpose has also become evident.

CONTENT OF OPINION: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the compilation of a vision for the future of the aging Japanese society from the viewpoint of individual health as well as from a broader viewpoint of the systems in the medical community, local community, and environment. These views will be reflected in the policies (including cross-ministerial flow) of academic associations such as the Japan Geriatrics Society; the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare; the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology; the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; the Cabinet Office; and various professional organizations. Healthcare systems that respond promptly to other emerging infectious diseases, disasters, and contingencies should be reconstructed As an issue that can commonly arise during the COVID-19 pandemic and other emerging infectious diseases, disasters, and other contingencies, a healthcare system designed for the older population, the most vulnerable segment of the population, must be developed. EOL care and ACP that is fully respected even in a contingency should be accelerated ACP should be implemented from an early stage, so that all parties involved can share values, intentions, and life goals with family members and healthcare personnel such that they are reflected in EOL care. This will enable older individuals to live as they desire until EOL. Use of information and communication technology and new technologies should be promoted to actively build new regional communication Disparities in the digital field (digital divide) must be eliminated to create an environment that enables everyone to benefit from digitalization. Furthermore, new regional communication systems, wherein the perspective of mobility support is key, must be created to prevent social isolation. The secondary health outcomes caused by the COVID-19 disaster among older individuals should be prevented through a multifaceted approach Utmost attention must be paid to preventing the occurrence of secondary health outcomes through a multifaceted approach that includes raising awareness regarding health maintenance and providing appropriate information related to health maintenance. Research in the field of public health must be promoted to strengthen human resource development in this area, with a focus on analyzing information on health, medical care, and long-term care from ordinary times Continuous support must be provided even before the occurrence of emergencies to facilitate basic research that will lead to clinical applications. Researchers at universities and research organizations, in particular, must strive to promote these activities. In addition, the government (local and national governments that have data and the national government that supports research and human resource development) must also commit to playing an important role in such research activities. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 481-490.},
}

Aged
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Japan/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
East Asian People

@article {pmid40358108,
year = {2025},
author = {Ratliff, HC and Lee, KA and Buchbinder, M and Kelly, LA and Yakusheva, O and Costa, DK},
title = {Organizational Resilience in Healthcare: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of healthcare management / American College of Healthcare Executives},
volume = {70},
number = {3},
pages = {165-188},
pmid = {40358108},
issn = {1096-9012},
mesh = {Humans ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; *Resilience, Psychological ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Organizational Culture ; },
abstract = {GOAL: Healthcare organizations have always faced challenges, yet the past decade has been particularly difficult due to workforce shortages, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic demands, all of which can impact quality of care. While some healthcare organizations have demonstrated the ability to adapt to such stressors-which has been termed "organizational resilience"-others have not. Most of the research on resilience in healthcare has been on individual clinicians; less is known about how extra-individual groups such as teams, units, and systems develop resilience. Understanding what organizational resilience is, how to measure it, and how healthcare organizations can develop it is essential to responding effectively to future acute and chronic stressors in the healthcare industry. The purpose of this scoping review is to synthesize how organizational resilience is defined and measured in the current healthcare literature and to inform future interventions to improve organizational resilience.

METHODS: We searched PubMed and Scopus databases for articles mentioning organizational resilience in healthcare. Eligible sources were those published in English through December 2023 in any format, and that described or measured organizational resilience in healthcare. Titles and abstracts were screened, and information was extracted from eligible articles.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: We screened 243 articles and included 97 in our review. Across these studies, organizational resilience was described as a healthcare system's ability to continue functioning and meet its objectives when exposed to stressful stimuli. Reactive and proactive strategies, as well as reflection, were identified as key components of organizational resilience. Four measures of organizational resilience were developed for use in healthcare, but only two have been validated.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Future studies should focus on validating and comparing existing measures of organizational resilience and using them to investigate how organizational resilience may impact quality of care and clinician well-being, allowing the field to move beyond the focus on individual clinician resilience.},
}

Humans
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
*Resilience, Psychological
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Organizational Culture

@article {pmid40357526,
year = {2025},
author = {Fahrbach, K and Cichewicz, A and Chu, H and Di Fusco, M and Burnett, H and Volkman, HR and Akin-Fajiye, M and Mendoza, CF and Cappelleri, JC},
title = {Comparative effectiveness of omicron XBB 1.5-adapted COVID-19 vaccines: a systematic literature review and network meta-analysis.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2025.2505754},
pmid = {40357526},
issn = {1744-8395},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Comparative effectiveness data of COVID-19 vaccines remain limited. We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) feasibility assessment of effectiveness studies of Omicron-adapted COVID-19 vaccines.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Searches in MEDLINE and Embase up to February 2025 identified studies comparing the effectiveness of Omicron-adapted COVID-19 vaccines, either directly or against no recent vaccine. Two investigators independently selected articles reporting adjusted vaccine effectiveness (VE). A feasibility assessment determined the appropriateness of a common comparator and evaluated effect modifiers (EMs). Data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment were performed by one investigator and validated by a second investigator. Bayesian NMAs using random-effects models were performed for base-case analyses, data permitting.

RESULTS: The review identified 25 studies for Omicron-adapted COVID-19 vaccines: 16 for XBB formulations, eight of which were included in NMAs, all for mRNA formulations, representing 29.9 million participants. BNT162b2 had the largest evidence base. Comparisons between XBB.1.5-adapted BNT162b2 (Comirnaty) and mRNA-1273 (Spikevax) found that both vaccines are effective and comparable against XBB-related hospitalizations, infections, and medically attended visits in adults Among elderly, the estimated effectiveness against XBB-related hospitalizations favored BNT162b2.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings of this NMA of observational studies support the effectiveness of XBB.1.5-adapted mRNA vaccines. Limitations included assumptions on EMs and sparse evidence networks.},
}

@article {pmid40357242,
year = {2025},
author = {Gontse, KS and Kovane, GP and Mokgaola, IO and Moloko-Phiri, SS},
title = {Experiences of nurse educators regarding teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Health SA = SA Gesondheid},
volume = {30},
number = {},
pages = {2882},
doi = {10.4102/hsag.v30i0.2882},
pmid = {40357242},
issn = {2071-9736},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The abrupt start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted educational systems globally, including nursing education institutions (NEIs). Teaching and learning in academic institutions were disturbed because of strict legislation measures, like lockdowns, that were implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19. These measures affected the quality of teaching and academic attainment.

AIM: This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of nurse educators regarding teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic at a NEI in the North West province (NWP). The study was conducted at a selected NEI, which comprises two campuses that are 178.1 km apart.

METHOD: A qualitative descriptive phenomenology approach was used. The nurse educators were purposively sampled, and 25 nurse educators participated in this study. Four focus group discussions (FGDs) were held to collect data through face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The data analysis followed Colaizzi's seven-stage process.

RESULTS: Three themes emerged from data analysis: positive experiences and negative experiences regarding teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, and strategies for overcoming the challenges experienced by nurse educators during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSION: The study findings revealed that nurse educators experienced positive and negative challenges regarding teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, there is a need for NEIs to employ teaching and learning innovations, including the use of technology, to be able to divert to online teaching and learning during future pandemics where face-to-face teaching is halted.

CONTRIBUTION: The study findings may provide valuable insights for policymakers in higher education institutions (HEIs) to develop policies that incorporate innovative teaching methods. These methods will be relevant for future pandemics that may disrupt traditional face-to-face teaching and learning. As an enhancement of existing teaching practices, innovative approaches have proven to be effective and contribute to more inclusive education. By adopting these methods, HEIs can better support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure quality and equitable education for all.},
}

@article {pmid40357185,
year = {2025},
author = {Arikpo, DI and Oku, AO and Onyema, OA and Odey, EO and Hamilton-Hurwitz, H and Toledo, JP and Dunn, K and Baller, A and Smith, HJ and Meremikwu, MM},
title = {Health and care workers' perceptions of PPE and physical distancing for COVID-19: A qualitative evidence synthesis.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {621},
doi = {10.4102/jphia.v16i2.621},
pmid = {40357185},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE) and physical distancing interventions for COVID-19 infection prevention and control (IPC), low uptake among health and care workers persists.

AIM: To synthesise evidence from primary qualitative research exploring the perceptions and experiences of health and care workers on the use of PPE and physical distancing in the context of COVID-19.

SETTING: Healthcare settings including care homes.

METHOD: An electronic database search was conducted using search terms based on the inclusion criteria, and the search strategy was peer-reviewed by a team of information scientists. Thirty qualitative studies were sampled after eligibility screening independently by two review authors. Synthesis was performed using the thematic synthesis approach. The confidence in each review finding was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations; Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) approach.

RESULTS: Fifteen analytical themes were identified. Health and care workers valued the use of PPE in patient care. The sense of value was heightened by perceived susceptibility to infection with COVID-19, the need to deliver optimal patient care and the desire to protect family members. Service delivery, clinical workflows, the absence of visual cues for spatial separation and physical infrastructure hindered adherence to physical distancing guidelines.

CONCLUSION: The gap between IPC guidelines and their implementation is an important health system barrier to PPE use and physical distancing in healthcare settings.

CONTRIBUTION: This review provides useful insights on key considerations for planning and implementing IPC in healthcare settings.},
}

@article {pmid40357184,
year = {2025},
author = {Arikpo, DI and Onyema, OA and Oku, AO and Meremikwu, C and Hamilton-Hurwitz, H and Toledo, JP and Dunn, K and Baller, A and Smith, HJ and Meremikwu, MM},
title = {Factors influencing mask use and physical distancing for COVID-19: A qualitative evidence synthesis.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {614},
doi = {10.4102/jphia.v16i2.614},
pmid = {40357184},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a bundle of precautions to reduce community transmission of COVID-19, including mask use and physical distancing. However, there is evidence that suggests poor adherence to these health measures community settings.

AIM: To summarise qualitative research evidence on the perceptions and factors influencing masks use and physical distancing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

SETTING: We included studies conducted in community settings.

METHOD: An electronic database search was conducted using search terms derived from the inclusion criteria and combined in a peer-reviewed search strategy. Thirty studies were sampled. Qualitative data analysis was performed using the thematic synthesis approach. The confidence in each review finding was ascertained using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations - Confidence in the evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) approach.

RESULTS: Ten analytical themes of low to high confidence were identified. Values, belief systems and cultural norms shaped the perception and uptake of mask use and physical distancing. Key barriers included the cost of masks, limited infrastructure for spatial separation and inconsistent political or government messaging, while visual cues and social responsibility facilitated adherence.

CONCLUSION: Personal values and preferences influenced individuals' adherence to these public health measures. Political or government messaging is important to aid understanding and adherence.

CONTRIBUTION: Insights provided by this synthesis can support future emergency preparedness and response to outbreaks of acute respiratory infections by providing policy makers with information needed to make contextually relevant recommendations to enhance adherence.},
}

@article {pmid40357183,
year = {2025},
author = {Nwachuku, NS and Arikpo, DI and Agbor, UJ and Onyenemerem, PN and Ochodo, EA and Smith, H and Meremikwu, M},
title = {Factors influencing uptake of diagnostic test interventions for SARS-CoV-2: A qualitative review.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {619},
doi = {10.4102/jphia.v16i2.619},
pmid = {40357183},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diagnostic tests for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) may be performed based on symptomatic presentation or for screening of asymptomatic persons. Testing can limit spread by enabling rapid identification of cases leading to containment measures. However, views regarding diagnostic test as a containment intervention vary across different settings.

AIM: To synthesise the findings of qualitative studies on the perceptions and factors influencing the uptake of diagnostic test interventions for SARS-CoV-2.

SETTING: Healthcare facilities, care homes, communities including households.

METHOD: We searched MEDLINE database and the (WHO) SARS-CoV-2 Research database from 01 January 2020 to 06 September 2022. Qualitative data were synthesised thematically while data for barriers and facilitators were synthesised using the SURE framework. The GRADE-CERQual approach was used to assess the confidence in each review finding, while the ENTREQ checklist was used to report the QES. The quality of included studies was assessed with the CASP tool.

RESULTS: Twenty two studies were included for QES. Two were conducted in the health facility setting, 2 in care homes, and 18 in the community. Twenty of the studies came from high-income countries, 2 from low- and middle-income countries. In all, 13 analytical and 31 descriptive themes of low to moderate quality evidence emerged; mainly around fear of contracting COVID-19, test procedure and socio-economic implications of a positive test result.

CONCLUSION: Low to moderate quality evidence of barriers to uptake of diagnostic test were largely due to misconceptions about the interventions.

CONTRIBUTION: Sensitising and engaging communities and stakeholders in the healthcare system, will help mitigate the fear barrier and enhance policy coordination.},
}

@article {pmid40356629,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, W and Zhao, Y and Rao, Y and Wu, Z and Peng, Y and Gong, L},
title = {Frontiers and hotspot evolution in research on Alzheimer's disease and hypertension: a bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2023.},
journal = {Frontiers in neurology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1514054},
doi = {10.3389/fneur.2025.1514054},
pmid = {40356629},
issn = {1664-2295},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that imposes a heavy burden on patients and their families. Hypertension is an important risk factor for AD, but the specific mechanism of its impact is still unclear. This study thus aimed to analyze the relationship and trend changes between AD and hypertension through bibliometric methods.

METHODS: Literature on AD and hypertension was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database between 2004 and 2023. Data regarding countries, institutions, authors and journals were sourced from WoSCC. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used for data visualization, including author collaboration, timelines view of references, reference bursts and overlay visualization maps of keywords. Excel 2018 software was used for the statistical analysis.

RESULTS: A total of 1,833 publications were ultimately included. From 2004 to 2023, the number of publications per year basically showed an increasing trend. The United States (United States) not only had the largest output of publications and the highest H-index but also had the seven highest frequencies of publication institutions. Kehoe, Patrick ranked first with the most articles among 9,330 authors. The journal with the most published articles was the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease. Reference analysis revealed a hotspot in the exploration of the pathophysiological association between AD and hypertension. Second, the treatment effects and potential risks of antihypertensive drugs (AHDs) on AD are also the focus of research. Researchers have carried out a series of studies ranging from basic research to clinical research on AHDs for the treatment of AD. Finally, personalized treatment strategies will also become one of the hotspots of future research. Controlling hypertension through lifestyle changes and medication interventions in AD patients is a promising strategy. The analysis of keywords revealed that "amyloid deposition," "preeclampsia," "Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)" and "biomarkers" have been research hotspots in recent years.

CONCLUSION: By analyzing the references and keywords, we summarized the hot topics and research trends in this field. These findings provide useful information for researchers to explore the relationship between hypertension and AD further, with the hope of providing more effective treatments for AD patients to delay disease progression and improve quality of life.},
}

@article {pmid40355732,
year = {2025},
author = {Dumke, R},
title = {[Infections with the human pathogenic Mycoplasma species M. genitalium and M. pneumoniae : Current epidemiological aspects].},
journal = {Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40355732},
issn = {1437-1588},
abstract = {Two human pathogenic mycoplasma species, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and M. genitalium currently pose challenges for the clinical practice.M. pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired respiratory infections, which can lead to asymptomatic courses as well as severe atypical pneumonia. Extrapulmonary manifestations also occur. Since December 2023, a strong increase of reported cases has been registered in the federal state of Saxony, where reporting is mandatory. These numbers far exceed those from the previous ten years and are assumed to generally translate to the other federal states. The reason for this development is likely the reduced contact with the pathogen during the COVID-19 pandemic combined with a waning immunity in the population. Although there are no reliable data on an increase in the rate of severe cases, diagnostics and treatment must be adapted. The resistance rate to macrolides (which are primarily used in Germany) remains favorable at approximately 3%.M. genitalium is a sexually transmitted bacterium and is only causally relevant in a portion of male urethritis cases. While its epidemiological significance is limited, resistance to the guideline-recommended antibiotics azithromycin and moxifloxacin is increasing, reaching 69% and 25%, respectively, in samples tested in the German consulting laboratory in recent years. Even higher rates are to be expected in high-risk groups (e.g., men who have sex with men), where M. genitalium is relatively frequent. Under these conditions, therapy can only be successful with a resistance-guided treatment concept.This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on both pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40355215,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Ji, X and Yang, C and Xu, J},
title = {Susceptibility from the immunological perspective of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis: A literature review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {19},
pages = {e42363},
doi = {10.1097/MD.0000000000042363},
pmid = {40355215},
issn = {1536-5964},
support = {20200404171YY//Jilin Science and Technology Development Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; Disease Susceptibility/immunology ; *Pulmonary Aspergillosis/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis/immunology ; Adaptive Immunity ; },
abstract = {The incidence rate of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) is rising. However, the pathogenesis of CAPA remains unclear. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection disrupts pathways related to type I interferon and Toll-like receptors, key components in innate immunity, thereby elevating the incidence of CAPA. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 infection results in T and B cell functional deficiencies or exhaustion within adaptive immunity, weakening the defense against invasive Aspergillus. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection enhances the replication of cytomegalovirus and alters the gut microbiota, factors that may aid in diagnosing CAPA. Immunosuppressive therapy in COVID-19 patients is also believed to heighten the risk of invasive aspergillosis. Therefore, this review, examines the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection combined with invasive aspergillosis, and explores the pathogenesis and susceptibility factors of CAPA. We propose that variations in an individual's immune response significantly determine susceptibility to CAPA. The aim of this paper is to deepen clinical understanding of CAPA's pathogenesis, thereby aiding in mitigating susceptibility risk and advancing novel treatment approaches.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
Disease Susceptibility/immunology
*Pulmonary Aspergillosis/immunology
Immunity, Innate
SARS-CoV-2
*Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis/immunology
Adaptive Immunity

@article {pmid40354666,
year = {2025},
author = {Jacobs, JW and Booth, GS and Lewis-Newby, M and Saifee, NH and Ferguson, E and Cohn, CS and Delaney, M and Morley, S and Thomas, S and Thorpe, R and Raza, S and Weaver, MS and Woo, JS and Sharma, D and So-Osman, C and Yurtsever, N and Tormey, CA and Waters, A and Goldman, M and Yan, MTS and Fasano, RM and Stephens, LD and Allen, ES and Erikstrup, C and Infanti, L and Schlafer, TD and Warner, MA and Winters, JL and Tobian, AAR and Bloch, EM},
title = {Medical, Societal, and Ethical Considerations for Directed Blood Donation in 2025.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-00815},
pmid = {40354666},
issn = {1539-3704},
abstract = {In the United States and other high-income countries, blood donation primarily relies on anonymous, voluntary donors. However, directed blood donation-where people donate for a specific recipient-has resurged, particularly due to misinformation surrounding COVID-19 vaccination. Requests for "nonvaccinated" blood, driven by misconceptions about vaccine safety, have led to legislative attempts to mandate compliance. Historically, directed donation was used to mitigate the risk for transfusion-related infections before modern screening techniques rendered it largely unnecessary. Today, it presents important patient safety risks, including increased infectious disease transmission, immunologic complications, and logistic burdens. Directed donations also introduce inefficiencies, diverting resources from the community blood supply and exacerbating shortages. Moreover, directed donation for nonmedical indications lacks scientific justification. Blood safety is ensured through rigorous donor screening, pathogen testing, and processing measures. There is no evidence that blood from vaccinated donors poses risk. Requests for nonvaccinated blood, as well as other directed donation preferences based on personal beliefs, introduce biases that are not grounded in medical necessity. Accommodating such requests undermines public trust in blood safety protocols and legitimizes unfounded fears. Ethical concerns arise as non-medically justified requests reinforce discriminatory practices, such as selecting donors based on race or gender. Allowing such preferences risks politicizing blood donation, spreading misinformation, and straining health care systems. Although autonomy is a core ethical principle in medicine, it does not justify non-evidence-based interventions. Given the potential harm and societal impact, directed blood donations should be limited to rare, medically necessary cases. Ongoing legislative efforts to mandate these requests require unified opposition from the medical and scientific community to uphold ethical, evidence-based, blood allocation practices.},
}

@article {pmid40076865,
year = {2025},
author = {Lu, J and Tang, Y and Li, H and Chen, X and Qin, P and Xu, J and Li, W and Chen, L},
title = {Identifying Exifone as a Dual-Target Agent Targeting Both SARS-CoV-2 3CL Protease and the ACE2/S-RBD Interaction Among Clinical Polyphenolic Compounds.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40076865},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {2023YFC3503400//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; ZD2021CY001//Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project/ ; E2G805H//SIMM-SHUTCM Traditional Chinese Medicine Innovation Joint Research Pro-gram/ ; 82141203//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Polyphenols/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Coronavirus 3C Proteases/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/chemistry ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; COVID-19/virology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Protein Binding ; },
abstract = {The ongoing emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants has led to resistance against multiple coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines and therapeutic medications, making the development of effective therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 a high priority. Studies have shown that bioactive polyphenols, particularly those with triphenol groups, can effectively inhibit the activity of SARS-CoV-2 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CL[pro]). However, the structural instability of polyphenols necessitates further research. To address this, we conducted a literature review to identify triphenol compounds that are either approved or currently undergoing clinical trials, assessing their potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 3CL[pro]. Exifone and benserazide hydrochloride were identified as the inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 3CL[pro] among these compounds, using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based assay. Benserazide hydrochloride was confirmed as a covalent binder to SARS-CoV-2 3CL[pro] through time-dependent inhibition and kinetic analysis, with its binding mode elucidated by molecular docking. Notably, exifone not only inhibited the protease activity but also blocked the interaction between the host cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain (S-RBD), as identified by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and flow cytometry. Additionally, exifone demonstrated antiviral activity against various SARS-CoV-2-S pseudovirus variants. In conclusion, the discovery of exifone and benserazide hydrochloride underscores the potential of polyphenols in developing conserved 3CL[pro] inhibitors for coronaviruses, offering new strategies for the rapid development of effective drugs against both current and future coronavirus pandemics.},
}

Humans
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Polyphenols/pharmacology/chemistry
*Coronavirus 3C Proteases/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/chemistry
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Molecular Docking Simulation
COVID-19/virology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Protein Binding

@article {pmid40354157,
year = {2025},
author = {Gujral, K and Illarmo, S and Jacobs, JC and Wagner, TH},
title = {The Economics of Telehealth: An Overview.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/tmj.2025.0073},
pmid = {40354157},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {Background: Telehealth has long offered promise for improving health care access, but due to restrictive regulations and technology limitations, historic use has been low. Despite telehealth's unprecedented expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic, economic questions remain, raising uncertainty about telehealth's future. Methods: We used an economics lens to conduct a narrative review of the vast medical literature and nascent economic literature on telehealth. We reviewed evidence on demand-side and supply-side forces influencing telehealth adoption and evidence on telehealth's impact on health care use, costs, effectiveness, and equity. Results: Current evidence is sparsely distributed across care types, telehealth modalities (e.g., phone, video, secure messaging), models of telehealth delivery, and pre- and post-pandemic periods. While the literature provides some signals that patients and clinicians are responsive to monetary costs of telehealth, more robust studies are needed, including studies on patient and provider time costs. Telehealth adoption appears to modestly increase outpatient care use, but evidence of its impact on costlier emergency or inpatient care use is needed. There is a lack of studies on monetary costs of telehealth, particularly the impact of telehealth on production costs. Importantly, there is a lack of high-quality studies on the comparative effectiveness of modalities. While there is a growing literature on disparities, studies that address confounders are needed to assess if telehealth can deliver on its promise to improve access for underserved populations. Conclusion: Our review paves the way for a stronger economics literature on telehealth, highlighting areas of future research.},
}

@article {pmid40074946,
year = {2025},
author = {Ecarnot, F and Amuthavalli Thiyagarajan, J and Barbagallo, M and Barratt, J and Biering-Sørensen, T and Botelho-Nevers, E and Del Riccio, M and Goeijenbier, M and Gravenstein, S and Lourenço, L and Michel, JP and Pedicino, D and Sieber, C and Torres, A and Veronese, N and Volpe, M and Weinke, T and Maggi, S},
title = {Infectious diseases, cardio-cerebrovascular health and vaccines: pathways to prevention.},
journal = {Aging clinical and experimental research},
volume = {37},
number = {1},
pages = {80},
pmid = {40074946},
issn = {1720-8319},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control ; *Cerebrovascular Disorders/prevention & control ; *Vaccines ; *Communicable Diseases ; Female ; Aged ; Male ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular and infectious diseases both feature among the leading causes of death among men and women in the world. The pathophysiological pathways of infection and cardiovascular disease intersect, and there is a bidirectional relationship between the two. Vaccines are available for the most common infectious diseases affecting older adults, such as influenza, pertussis, pneumococcal disease, herpes zoster, COVID and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In many countries, these vaccines are recommended systematically for older adults and any adults with comorbidities, who are also those most likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease. There is a large body of evidence attesting to the benefits of vaccination on cardio- and cerebrovascular health. The European Interdisciplinary Council for Aging (EICA) and the Italian Society for Cardiovascular Prevention (Società Italiana per la Prevenzione Cardiovascolare, SIPREC) convened a 2-day meeting in June 2024 to review the state of the evidence on the relationship between cardio- and cerebrovascular health and the most common infectious diseases, and the role of vaccines in preventing both infection and its adverse consequences in terms of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes. We present here the Executive Summary of the proceedings of this meeting.},
}

Humans
*Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control
*Cerebrovascular Disorders/prevention & control
*Vaccines
*Communicable Diseases
Female
Aged
Male
Vaccination

@article {pmid40352986,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, GL and Hegazy, SA and Sepe, J and Swigart, J and Burnette, M and Beltran, J and Hernandez, C},
title = {Fostering Competencies: A Scoping Review of Escape Rooms in Medical Education.},
journal = {Medical science educator},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {1111-1121},
doi = {10.1007/s40670-024-02270-y},
pmid = {40352986},
issn = {2156-8650},
abstract = {Escape rooms are used in medical education to encourage teaming and communication skills, but their effectiveness beyond learner satisfaction remains unexplored. This review evaluated their educational value, focusing on alignment with ACGME core competencies. Following the PRISMA framework, a scoping review was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and ERIC through mid-September 2023, excluding commentaries, editorials, and letters. The review included 35 studies, mostly single-institution studies, with various methodologies. Most aligned with competencies in interpersonal and communication skills and systems-based practice, with increased virtual formats during COVID-19 pandemic. High learner satisfaction was noted. Escape rooms effectively foster teamwork and communication in medical education. Further research is needed on knowledge retention and application.},
}

@article {pmid40352672,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, R and Bansal, R},
title = {Revisiting the role of steroidal therapeutics in the 21st century: an update on FDA approved steroidal drugs (2000-2024).},
journal = {RSC medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5md00027k},
pmid = {40352672},
issn = {2632-8682},
abstract = {Steroids are biologically active polycyclic compounds that have garnered significant scientific attention due to their distinct physiochemical properties and diverse medical applications. Since their invention more than 90 years ago, steroids have remained the most important and necessary class of regulatory molecules in the evolution process of living creatures and have fascinated scientists due to their broad-spectrum biological activities. Over time, scientific innovations and expanded understanding of mechanisms related to diversified biological activities of steroids have made them cheaper, efficient and more specific therapeutic agents which could be effective in the prevention and cure of numerous diseases like cancer, inflammation, asthma, microbial infection, and many more. However, steroidal drugs remain a double-edged sword having significant therapeutic benefits but with incidence of several adverse effects if used for a longer duration and/or with incorrect dose. Nevertheless, novel treatment approaches such as nanoparticles or liposomal drug delivery, real-time monitoring and the use of artificial intelligence in steroidal therapy outweigh their risk factors and provide an effective and safe treatment with minimum adverse effects. Furthermore, the repurposing of steroids in different diseases, e.g. successful use of dexamethasone or hydrocortisone during COVID-19 pandemic has renewed the interest in steroidal therapeutics. The present review provides an update on FDA approved steroidal drugs during the years 2000-2024, the status of their clinical studies, the challenges offered by steroidal therapy and the future perspectives to counterbalance all these challenges. Moreover, this review also delivers useful data on the repurposing of steroidal drugs against various diseases along with the novel techniques used for improved steroid delivery.},
}

@article {pmid40352244,
year = {2025},
author = {Shah, HP and Naqvi, AS and Rajput, P and Ambra, H and Venkatesh, H and Saleem, J and Saravanan, S and Wanjari, M and Mittal, G},
title = {Artificial intelligence-based deep learning algorithms for ground-glass opacity nodule detection: A review.},
journal = {Narra J},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {e1361},
doi = {10.52225/narra.v5i1.1361},
pmid = {40352244},
issn = {2807-2618},
mesh = {Humans ; *Deep Learning ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods ; Algorithms ; *Artificial Intelligence ; COVID-19/diagnostic imaging ; *Lung Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; },
abstract = {Ground-glass opacities (GGOs) are hazy opacities on chest computed tomography (CT) scans that can indicate various lung diseases, including early COVID-19, pneumonia, and lung cancer. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising tool for analyzing medical images, such as chest CT scans. The aim of this study was to evaluate AI models' performance in detecting GGO nodules using metrics like accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, area under the curve (AUC) and precision. We designed a search strategy to include reports focusing on deep learning algorithms applied to high-resolution CT scans. The search was performed on PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and ScienceDirect to identify studies published between 2016 and 2024. Quality appraisal of included studies was conducted using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) tool, assessing the risk of bias and applicability concerns across four domains. Two reviewers independently screened studies reporting the diagnostic ability of AI-assisted CT scans in early GGO detection, where the review results were synthesized qualitatively. Out of 5,247 initially identified records, we found 18 studies matching the inclusion criteria of this study. Among evaluated models, DenseNet achieved the highest accuracy of 99.48%, though its sensitivity and specificity were not reported. WOANet showed an accuracy of 98.78%, with a sensitivity of 98.37% and high specificity of 99.19%, excelling particularly in specificity without compromising sensitivity. In conclusion, AI models can potentially detect GGO on chest CT scans. Future research should focus on developing hybrid models that integrate various AI approaches to improve clinical applicability.},
}

Humans
*Deep Learning
*Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods
Algorithms
*Artificial Intelligence
COVID-19/diagnostic imaging
*Lung Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging
Sensitivity and Specificity

@article {pmid40352079,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Zhang, X and Deng, H and Tan, Y},
title = {The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Self-Harm: A Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Alpha psychiatry},
volume = {26},
number = {2},
pages = {39868},
doi = {10.31083/AP39868},
pmid = {40352079},
issn = {2757-8038},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused a range of mental health problems, particularly self-harm. Lockdowns are the usual methods of responding to these public health emergencies. However, the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on self-harm remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of self-harm. The findings may inform future policy development and strategies for managing pandemic-related mental health challenges.

METHODS: A meta-analysis was conducted using several database searches: APA PsycINFO, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wan Fang. Published studies with data on the incidence of self-harm during visits to medical institutions, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, were included. The pooled risk ratio (RR) value of self-harm incidence variation before and during the COVID-19 lockdown period, expressed as the comparison of clinical institution visits before and during the pandemic, was calculated.

RESULTS: Fifteen retrospective cohort studies with observational designs involving 253,600 participants were included. The pooled RR value of self-harm incidence variation was 1.386 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.205-1.595, I[2] = 58.9%, p = 0.002). The subgroup analysis showed that "emergency department type" (p = 0.004) and "mean age of the sample" were the sources of the RR values' heterogeneity (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic was a risk factor for self-harm. Therefore, special attention should be paid to individuals visiting the emergency department and the middle-aged and elderly populations.

THE PROSPERO REGISTRATION: This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023373026), https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023373026.},
}

@article {pmid40352018,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmed, AE and Alsunusi, OA and Alamer, HA and Shubayli, EA and Alqahtani, HA and Juraybi, RK and Aboud, AM and Alshihri, MS and Almaghrabi, AH and Aljohani, WF and Almudawi, AM},
title = {Effectiveness of Telemedicine Interventions for Infection Prevention and Control: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82075},
doi = {10.7759/cureus.82075},
pmid = {40352018},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Infection prevention and control is a critical aspect of healthcare delivery, especially during the ongoing challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable strategy for reducing the risk of infection transmission while maintaining the continuity of care. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness, benefits, and challenges of telemedicine interventions aimed at improving infection prevention and control across various healthcare settings. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines using databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Virtual Health Library, covering studies published up to November 2024. Studies eligible for inclusion comprised randomized trials, observational studies, and mixed-methods research assessing telemedicine applications for infection control. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using established tools for qualitative and quantitative research appraisal. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and highlighted several positive outcomes. Telemedicine interventions such as mobile applications, remote video assessments of infection control practices, and virtual infection control consultations were associated with reduced infection rates, improved compliance with preventive protocols, and timely identification of procedural gaps. In inpatient settings, telemedicine also helped conserve protective equipment and reduce staff exposure. High patient satisfaction and maintained quality of care were commonly reported. However, several challenges were identified, including technical barriers, increased workload for healthcare workers, and concerns regarding data security. These findings suggest that telemedicine is a promising and adaptable solution for enhancing infection prevention efforts, but successful implementation depends on addressing operational barriers, ensuring adequate training, and strengthening infrastructure. Further rigorous research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact and cost-effectiveness of telemedicine in infection control.},
}

@article {pmid40351947,
year = {2025},
author = {Nitz, JN and Ruprecht, KK and Henjum, LJ and Matta, AY and Shiferaw, BT and Weber, ZL and Jones, JM and May, R and Baio, CJ and Fiala, KJ and Abd-Elsayed, AA},
title = {Cardiovascular Sequelae of the COVID-19 Vaccines.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82041},
doi = {10.7759/cureus.82041},
pmid = {40351947},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Vaccines against COVID-19 present a key tool in lowering the morbidity, mortality, and transmission of the disease, but they also present a strongly controversial topic. As a result, the adverse effects of the vaccine have been under scrutiny by the public eye. A comprehensive summary of the cardiovascular (CV) adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines is vital for clinical recognition of rare adverse events, determining the public health implications, and creating a base for future research. In May 2023, a search was conducted in the PubMed and Cochrane databases to identify literature on CV complications resulting from the COVID-19 vaccine. All articles with relevant data and discussion regarding adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccines were included in the review. In total, 4419 articles were screened, and 166 articles were included in the review. The vaccine-associated CV adverse events encompassed the following conditions: myocarditis, pericarditis, acute coronary syndrome, stress cardiomyopathy, hypertension, isolated tachycardia, myocardial infarction (MI) with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), cardiac arrest, vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), MI, cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and other venous thrombotic disorders. Among these, myocarditis and thrombosis, especially VITT, emerged as the most frequently cited complications in the reviewed literature. Ranges of incidences for the following were recorded among the reviewed articles: myocarditis: 2 to 17 per million, VITT: 3-10 per million, CVST: 2.6-10 per million, MI: 3-4 per million. COVID-19 vaccines entail the potential for adverse events, although at low incidence, some of which exhibit notable severity. These adverse events exhibit demographic specificity and vaccine-specific profiles. The adverse events reviewed are uniformly acute in nature. The existing body of evidence offers limited support for the assertion that COVID-19 vaccines may elevate the baseline risk of CV events in the long term. However, the available research on effects greater than six months is scarce.},
}

@article {pmid40351791,
year = {2025},
author = {Stein, MJ and Rohrich, R},
title = {Artificial Intelligence and Postoperative Monitoring in Plastic Surgery.},
journal = {Plastic surgery (Oakville, Ont.)},
volume = {33},
number = {2},
pages = {312-317},
pmid = {40351791},
issn = {2292-5503},
abstract = {Technological innovation has fueled an evolving landscape in plastic surgery. Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has demonstrated tremendous potential in enhancing our diagnostic ability, automating data acquisition for research purposes, and supplementing our intraoperative decision-making. Over the last two decades, advancements in AI enhanced pre- and intraoperative management of plastic surgery patients. However, the demand to keep plastic surgery patients out of hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic has recently inspired important AI innovations in postoperative care, such as telemedicine and remote patient monitoring. As we transition into the post-COVID era of medicine, these novel technologies will be critical in enhancing patient safety and satisfaction, while reducing rising healthcare costs. Herein, we review the basic principles of AI in plastic surgery and illustrate its significance in remote postoperative monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid40351412,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Zhu, B and Lu, J and Dong, Z and Li, P and Li, W and Zheng, C and Chang, J and Shang, S},
title = {Advances in the effectiveness and safety of azvudine treatment: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1524072},
pmid = {40351412},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {The global impact of COVID-19 has highlighted the urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions against SARS-CoV-2. Azvudine, a dual-target nucleoside drug initially developed for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), has gained attention for its potential in treating COVID-19. On 25 July 2022, Azvudine received conditional approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China, making it the first oral SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) inhibitor for COVID-19 treatment. This review explores the pharmacological activity, antiviral mechanisms, and clinical effectiveness of azvudine in the context of COVID-19. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to reduce the viral load, shorten the time to nucleic acid negativity, and improve clinical outcomes in patients. Additionally, azvudine has shown excellent pharmacokinetic properties and a favorable safety profile with mild side effects. The review also addresses the importance of drug interactions and safety considerations, particularly in high-risk populations. Research should focus on optimizing second-generation inhibitors with enhanced effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 variants, improving oral bioavailability, and minimizing adverse effects, ensuring more robust treatment options for COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40350816,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, FY and Jing, ZW and Ge, JW and Mei, ZG},
title = {[Exploration of biological essence of blood heat syndrome and mechanism of blood-cooling traditional Chinese medicine from combination of disease and syndrome].},
journal = {Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica},
volume = {50},
number = {4},
pages = {985-993},
doi = {10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20241108.502},
pmid = {40350816},
issn = {1001-5302},
mesh = {Humans ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods ; *Hyperthermia/therapy/diagnosis ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Blood heat syndrome, one of the main subtypes of blood syndrome in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), is mainly diagnosed by bleeding and heat manifestations and treated by the blood-cooling method. The biological essence of blood heat syndrome has not been elucidated yet, and there is a lack of systematic research on the potential mechanisms underlying the blood-cooling method. The biological essence of blood heat syndrome is closely related to abnormal immune response, oxidative stress, coagulation dysfunction, endocrine disorders, abnormalities in energy metabolism and so on. Blood heat syndrome is common in autoimmune skin diseases(such as systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, and purpura), central hyperthermia, infectious diseases(such as infectious mononucleosis and COVID-19), and hemorrhagic diseases in gynecology. As the primary clinical therapy for blood heat syndrome, blood-cooling TCM is usually combined with the TCM with effects of activating blood and resolving stasis, nourishing Yin,and extinguishing wind to play the role of cooling blood. The mechanisms of above therapies may be attributed to reducing inflammation, inhibiting oxidative stress, restoring the balance of blood coagulation and metabolism, regulating the secretion of sex hormones, and alleviating allergic reactions. This article systematically explores the biological essence of blood heat syndrome and elucidates the targets and underlying mechanism of the blood-cooling method, laying a scientific foundation for the clinical application of TCM in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with blood heat syndrome.},
}

Humans
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods
*Hyperthermia/therapy/diagnosis
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
Syndrome

@article {pmid40350728,
year = {2025},
author = {Nemkova, SA},
title = {[Modern approaches to diagnosis and treatment of postinfectious asthenic syndrome in children].},
journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova},
volume = {125},
number = {4},
pages = {42-52},
doi = {10.17116/jnevro202512504142},
pmid = {40350728},
issn = {1997-7298},
mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Asthenia/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/therapy ; *Picolines/therapeutic use ; Influenza, Human/complications ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/complications ; Syndrome ; COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {The article is devoted to an urgent problem - the diagnosis and treatment of Postinfectious asthenic syndrome in children and adolescents. The issues of etiology and pathogenesis, classification and clinical manifestations of postinfectious asthenia in children are considered in detail. Special attention is paid to the asthenic syndrome after acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, neuroinfections, and coronavirus infection. The high efficacy of the drug Mexidol in the prevention and comprehensive correction of postinfectious asthenic disorders, as well as concomitant autonomic, cognitive and emotional disorders in children and adolescents has been shown.},
}

Humans
Child
Adolescent
*Asthenia/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/therapy
*Picolines/therapeutic use
Influenza, Human/complications
*Respiratory Tract Infections/complications
Syndrome
COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid40350570,
year = {2025},
author = {Loh, CTI and Lee, ZY and Yunos, NM and Atan, R and Heyland, DK and Stoppe, C and Hasan, MS},
title = {Association of muscularity status with clinical and physical function outcomes in critically ill patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jpen.2767},
pmid = {40350570},
issn = {1941-2444},
abstract = {Pre-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) critical care research underscored the importance of muscularity on patient outcomes. This study investigates the association between skeletal muscle mass and quality with clinical and physical function outcomes in critically ill patients with COVID-19. We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL from database inception to April 24, 2024, for studies using objective methods to evaluate muscularity in critically ill adults with COVID-19, without language restrictions. Co-primary outcomes were overall mortality and muscle strength. Random-effect meta-analyses were performed in RevMan 5.4.1. We included 20 studies (N = 1818), assessing muscularity via computed tomography (twelve studies), ultrasound (seven studies), and bioelectrical impedance analysis (one study); none had low risk of bias. In analyses of high vs low muscularity, high muscle mass was significantly associated with lower overall mortality (nine studies; risk ratio = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.57-0.98; P = 0.03). When muscularity was analyzed as a continuous variable, COVID-19 survivors had higher skeletal muscle area (SMA) (13 studies; mean difference [MD] = 1.18; 95% CI, 0.03-2.33; P = 0.05) confirmed by sensitivity analysis using standardized MD (0.23, 95% CI 0.05-0.42, P = 0.01) and significantly higher muscle quality (five studies; standardized MD = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.20-0.70; P = 0.0004). Muscle strength findings were inconsistent: one study showed significant correlations between muscle strength with muscle mass parameters (r = 0.365-0.375, P < 0.001) whereas another found no association. In critically ill adults with COVID-19, high muscle mass was associated with lower mortality risk. Survivors had significantly higher SMA and muscle quality. Findings on physical function outcomes remain inconclusive (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022384155).},
}

@article {pmid40350558,
year = {2025},
author = {Uzzell, J and Divin, C and Zinn, K},
title = {Integration of Student Well-Being in Undergraduate Nursing Curricula: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Worldviews on evidence-based nursing},
volume = {22},
number = {3},
pages = {e70029},
doi = {10.1111/wvn.70029},
pmid = {40350558},
issn = {1741-6787},
mesh = {Humans ; *Students, Nursing/psychology ; *Curriculum/trends/standards ; *Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods/standards ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nursing school causes immense stress for students, and the attrition rate is high. Nurse educators have long been aware of the documented relationship between well-being and academic success, as well as the anxiety, depression, insomnia, fear, and exhaustion that result in student burnout. However, there has been little change in the nursing curriculum, and few nursing curricula include student well-being education.

AIM: This scoping review aimed to search the literature for student well-being education concepts integrated into the nursing curriculum.

METHODS: This scoping review was performed on Scopus 20, American Psychological Association's (APA) PsychNet database, and CINAHL database using Arksey and O'Malley's 6-step methodology. Search terms included nursing AND student AND well-being AND curricula OR education OR curriculum. Articles were excluded if they were graduate-level education, not faculty or student-focused, not in an academic setting, or if the study was completed in a foreign country or was COVID-19 pandemic-related. Other limitations were the years 2020-2024 and in the English language.

RESULTS: A total of 19 articles were chosen for inclusion in the scoping review. Ninety-nine articles were found on Scopus 20 and limited by careful analysis to 16. No eligible articles were found on APA PsychNet. The CINAHL database produced four articles, with two chosen for inclusion after a full-text review. One article was found through hand-searching during the literature search process. Articles discussed using one well-being course, integrating a specific well-being program, utilizing multiple well-being activities, developing faculty training skills for the integration of well-being, and creating a shared agenda for the design of well-being activities within the nursing curriculum.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION: The nursing curriculum should include well-being activities in each nursing course. Supporting nursing students' well-being will enhance their academic success and decrease burnout.},
}

Humans
*Students, Nursing/psychology
*Curriculum/trends/standards
*Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods/standards
COVID-19

@article {pmid40350182,
year = {2025},
author = {Matsumoto, K and Prowle, JR and Puthucheary, Z and Cecconi, M and Fazzini, B and Malcolm, H and Nydahl, P and Osman, M and Santini, A and Schaller, SJ and Thomson, W and van den Berke, D and Poll, M and Stephens, T},
title = {Uncertainty and decision-making in critical care: lessons from managing COVID-19 ARDS in preparation for the next pandemic.},
journal = {BMJ open respiratory research},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjresp-2024-002637},
pmid = {40350182},
issn = {2052-4439},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology ; *Critical Care/methods ; Uncertainty ; *Respiration, Artificial/methods ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy ; *Clinical Decision-Making ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Decision Making ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was an emergent syndrome that led to high volumes of critically ill ventilated patients. We explored influences on decision-making regarding management of COVID-19 ARDS mechanical ventilation to identify modifiable factors to improve preparedness for future pandemics.

METHODS: A systematic review and small group interviews informed the development of an international questionnaire (UK, Italy, Germany and Netherlands) on factors influencing COVID-19 ARDS ventilation decision-making in critical care professionals. Participants ranked four themes in order of importance: disease (uncertainties around COVID-19 ARDS), contextual (cognitive strain), environmental (structural logistics) and team factors. Participants also ranked the subthemes within each theme. Thematic analysis was used to derive findings from qualitative data. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U and Kendall's tau were used for quantitative data analysis.

RESULTS: Patient factors (comorbidities, clinical/biochemical parameters) were the most studied influences in the extant literature on decision-making; uncertainty was one of the least studied. 371 critical care professionals responded to the questionnaire. Disease uncertainty (lack of applicable guidelines, unfamiliarity with pathophysiology) was ranked as the most important influence on ventilation decision-making for COVID-19 ARDS across regions, professions and experience levels (p<0.001). Participants expressed underconfidence in their decision-making (median score: 9/20); this was unaffected by experience (p=0.79) or profession (p=0.58). Qualitative findings supported and extended the initial proposed influences, including the impact of team factors (+ve) and resource limitations (-ve) on disease uncertainty.

CONCLUSION: Future pandemic preparedness programmes should target modifiable influences such as information sharing, teamworking and resource limitations to mitigate against the negative influence of uncertainty and thereby improve decision-making overall.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology
*Critical Care/methods
Uncertainty
*Respiration, Artificial/methods
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy
*Clinical Decision-Making
SARS-CoV-2
*Decision Making
Surveys and Questionnaires
Pandemics

@article {pmid40350153,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, J},
title = {Introduction to burnout and well-being for anesthesiologists in South Korea: narrative and brief review.},
journal = {Anesthesia and pain medicine},
volume = {20},
number = {2},
pages = {121-126},
doi = {10.17085/apm.25244},
pmid = {40350153},
issn = {2383-7977},
abstract = {Burnout is a widespread occupational issue in the medical field, posing significant risks to both physician health and patient care worldwide. While the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the impact of systemic factors-such as excessive workloads, administrative burdens, and inefficiencies-in exacerbating physician burnout, discussions about well-being remain limited in South Korea. Given the recent challenges faced by healthcare professionals in Korea, addressing burnout has become urgent to prevent further negative outcomes. Although individual efforts toward wellness are important, they are insufficient without systemic support. Distinguishing between burnout and well-being is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Drawing on global examples, comprehensive strategies-including policy reforms, organizational support, mental health resources, and cultural shifts-are recommended to create a sustainable and supportive environment for anesthesiologists in Korea.},
}

@article {pmid40349995,
year = {2025},
author = {Pita Dos Santos, LG and da Silva Coutinho, G and Rodrigues Guimarães, JM and Miranda da Silva, M and Francisco da Silva, A and Marcelino Neto, PP and Coral Rodrigues, BC and Aaron de Almeida, W and Carlos Alves Dos Santos, AJ and Napoleão, TH and Pontual, EV},
title = {Advances in COVID-19 Therapeutics: Exploring the Role of Lectins and Protease Inhibitors.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107687},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107687},
pmid = {40349995},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The rapid global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has demanded innovative approaches to treatment and prevention. This article reviews the current landscape of COVID-19 therapeutics and vaccines, emphasizing the role of biotechnological products, particularly lectins and protease inhibitors. SARS-CoV-2, a single-stranded RNA virus, infects host cells via its spike (S) protein, which binds to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. This interaction is facilitated by host proteases like TMPRSS2, which are critical for viral entry. Treatments for COVID-19 primarily focus on antiviral drugs, anti-inflammatory agents, and monoclonal antibodies. Protease inhibitors that target viral enzymes like Mpro and PLpro have demonstrated potential. Additionally, vaccines, including mRNA-based, DNA-based, and those using viral vectors or inactivated viruses, are essential for preventing new infections. Lectins, proteins that bind specifically to carbohydrates, have emerged as potential antiviral agents. They can impede viral entry by binding to glycoproteins on the virus's surface or modulate immune responses. Studies indicate that lectins like cyanovirin-N and griffithsin exhibit significant antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. While most of the research on these biotechnological products is still in preclinical or early stages, their potential for treating and preventing COVID-19 is substantial. Further investigation and clinical trials are crucial to validate their efficacy and safety. This article underscores the need for continued exploration of novel therapeutic strategies to combat the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. However, the review is limited by the scarcity of clinical data on these products, highlighting the need for translational research.},
}

@article {pmid40349784,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, S and Sun, C and Qian, T and Chen, Y and Dong, X and Wang, A and Zhang, Q and Ji, Y and Jin, Z and Liu, C and Zhao, K},
title = {Animal vaccine revolution: Nanoparticle adjuvants open the future of vaccinology.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {113827},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.113827},
pmid = {40349784},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {In recent years, the rapid development of nanoparticle adjuvants has greatly facilitated the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases in humans and animals. The remarkable success of mRNA nanovaccines against SARS-CoV-2 has accelerated the advancement of nanoparticle adjuvant technologies in the era of precision medicine. Significant progress has been made in researching nanovaccines for major animal infectious diseases, such as porcine epidemic diarrhea, avian influenza, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, bovine viral diarrhea, foot-and-mouth disease, African swine fever, and Newcastle disease. This article reviews the nanoparticle adjuvants under investigation for animal use, emphasizing their diverse mechanisms of action and immunological properties, and analyzes the physicochemical factors influencing their immune-enhancing effects. On this basis, we discuss future prospects and key challenges that need to be addressed, aiming to provide valuable references for the development of novel animal vaccine adjuvants.},
}

@article {pmid40349479,
year = {2025},
author = {Walsh, A and McCarthy, J and Bradshaw, C},
title = {Impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on bereavement care provided within maternity services: A focused mapping review and synthesis.},
journal = {Midwifery},
volume = {147},
number = {},
pages = {104445},
doi = {10.1016/j.midw.2025.104445},
pmid = {40349479},
issn = {1532-3099},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Perinatal bereavement is the experience of parents after the death of an infant due to miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, or elective termination of pregnancy for fetal anomaly. Perinatal loss is a traumatic event for parents and the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals (HCPs) can impact their grieving process. In March 2020, Covid-19 was declared a global pandemic, with significant consequences on perinatal bereavement services.

AIM: To explore parents and HCPs experiences of perinatal bereavement care during the Covid-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A focused mapping review and synthesis was used to identify papers which concentrated on perinatal bereavement care within maternity services during the Covid-19 pandemic. Studies meeting the criteria in peer reviewed midwifery, obstetric and healthcare journals (n = 6), published between Jan 2020-Feb 2025 were descriptively analysed, providing a topography and synthesis of the key trends identified.

FINDINGS: Fourteen relevant studies were identified in the review period, six of which met the inclusion criteria, with two themes identified: Maternity service reconfiguration due to Covid-19 restrictions and Loneliness and anxiety inducing experiences among parents.

CONCLUSION: The Covid-19 pandemic negatively impacted bereavement care within maternity services. Maternity reconfiguration because of the pandemic was a major contributor to dissatisfaction and frustration amongst bereaved parents and HCPs. Exclusion of partners had a negative effect on parents' experiences of care, augmenting the loneliness and anxiety felt by parents when dealing with loss. Perinatal bereavement guidelines need to accentuate the importance of partner inclusion in any context but particularly when providing care to women requiring isolation or barrier nursing. Guidelines must be reviewed to clearly outline when the use of virtual care is appropriate within the maternity setting. Additional research is needed to assess the long-term impacts of Covid 19 on HCPs. Such research includes identifying effective mechanisms to help staff deal with the stress and emotional impact of future public health emergencies.},
}

@article {pmid40349297,
year = {2025},
author = {Arries-Kleyenstuber, E and Dierck de Casterlé, B and Kynoch, K and Ramis, MA and Suhonen, R and Ventura, C and Morley, G},
title = {Ethical challenges nurses faced during the COVID-19 pandemic: Scoping review.},
journal = {Nursing ethics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {9697330251339417},
doi = {10.1177/09697330251339417},
pmid = {40349297},
issn = {1477-0989},
abstract = {Nurses encountered a myriad of ethical challenges during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as allocation of scarce resources, the need to balance duty of care with safety of self as well as visitation restrictions. The impact of these challenges on the nursing workforce requires investigation. The aim of this review was to scope and describe the reported literature on ethical challenges faced by nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, including contextual characteristics and strategies reported to address these challenges. The review was conducted in accordance with JBI methods for scoping reviews and reported using PRISMA-ScR guidance. A published protocol guided conduct of the review. The following databases were searched for eligible studies from November 2019 to January 2023: PubMed, CINAHL, Ovid, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus. No language restrictions were applied. Studies were reviewed for inclusion by two independent reviewers, and a data extraction form was developed to extract data relevant to the review questions. Results were analyzed and presented according to the concepts of interest, using tables, figures, and supporting narrative synthesis. After searching the databases, 2150 citations were retrieved with 47 studies included in the review. Studies represented 23 countries across five continents. Most of the studies used qualitative designs. Ethical challenges were described in several ways, often without appealing to common ethics language or terms. Few studies reported on strategies to address the specific challenges, which may reflect the dynamic nature of the pandemic. The scoping review highlights the complex and, at times, overwhelming impact of ethical challenges faced by nurses across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from the review can be used as a basis for further research to explore, develop, and implement strategies to address ethical challenges faced by nurses during future public health crises.},
}

@article {pmid40348572,
year = {2025},
author = {Garcia, JF and Reid, MW and Raymond, JK},
title = {Designing, Implementing, and Adapting Virtual Care Models for Marginalized Communities.},
journal = {Endocrinology and metabolism clinics of North America},
volume = {54},
number = {2},
pages = {315-328},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecl.2025.02.018},
pmid = {40348572},
issn = {1558-4410},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Endocrine System Diseases/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Healthcare Disparities ; },
abstract = {Telehealth and virtual care models are viable solutions to disparities impacting diverse or marginalized communities with endocrine disorders. Racially and ethnically diverse children with endocrine disorders and their families have not been adequately represented in research or granted equal access to these innovative models. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic highlighted disparities but also provided an opportunity to adapt telehealth and virtual care models across institutions. To ensure the success of these care models, diverse children and their families must be included in their development, implementation, and adaptation.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Endocrine System Diseases/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Healthcare Disparities

@article {pmid40348543,
year = {2025},
author = {Razzaq, A and Prager, KM and Garan, AR and Hastie, J and Brodie, D and Abrams, D},
title = {Ethical Considerations for Mechanical Support.},
journal = {Anesthesiology clinics},
volume = {43},
number = {2},
pages = {267-282},
doi = {10.1016/j.anclin.2025.02.003},
pmid = {40348543},
issn = {1932-2275},
mesh = {Humans ; *Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/ethics/methods ; Heart Failure/therapy ; Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy ; },
abstract = {Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) has the ability to support patients with severe forms of cardiac and respiratory failure. Rapid expansion of ECLS, its resource-intensive and invasive nature, and the high acuity illness of supported patients have raised important questions. Specific issues include identification of patients most likely to benefit, the appropriate duration of support amid uncertain prognosis, and what to do when patients become dependent on ECLS but no longer have hope for recovery or transplantation. Careful deliberation of ethical principles and potential dilemmas should be made when considering the use of ECLS in advanced cardiopulmonary failure.},
}

Humans
*Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/ethics/methods
Heart Failure/therapy
Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy

@article {pmid40348041,
year = {2025},
author = {Ayyad, M and Alya, WA and Barabrah, AM and Darawish, SM and AlHabil, Y and MohammedAli, M and Nabilsi, MZ and Asad, D and Ayasa, LA and Matassa, D},
title = {Autoimmune hemolytic anemia in COVID-19 patients: A systematic review of 105 cases on clinical characteristics and outcomes.},
journal = {Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {110512},
doi = {10.1016/j.clim.2025.110512},
pmid = {40348041},
issn = {1521-7035},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has been linked to autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), a rare but serious condition causing red blood cell destruction. This systematic review examines the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of AIHA in COVID-19 patients.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus identified 85 studies encompassing 105 patients. Data on demographics, clinical features, and treatment outcomes were extracted.

RESULTS: Of 1402 articles, 85 met inclusion criteria. Most patients were male (54.3 %) with a mean age of 50.6 years, predominantly from Asia (83.5 %). Cold agglutinin AIHA was most common (48.2 %). Presenting symptoms included fatigue, dyspnea, and fever. Steroids were the most effective treatment, used in 95 % of recovered cases. Mortality was 14.3 %, with 26.7 % of deaths directly related to AIHA.

CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 is associated with AIHA, often presenting with non-specific symptoms. Early recognition and prompt steroid therapy are critical for improving outcomes. Further research is needed to guide management.},
}

@article {pmid40347741,
year = {2025},
author = {J, P and Lavanya, P and A, M and Kumar C, N},
title = {Recent advances in the diagnosis of fungal zoonoses in India: A comprehensive overview.},
journal = {Molecular aspects of medicine},
volume = {103},
number = {},
pages = {101366},
doi = {10.1016/j.mam.2025.101366},
pmid = {40347741},
issn = {1872-9452},
abstract = {Fungal infections are most common in integumentary and systemic parts of the body. The outbreak of fungal infections was observed in several disease conditions like Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), chronic obstructive disease (COPD), malignancies and others like COVID-19 associated Mucormycosis (Black fungus) among Indian population. The main objective of the study is to examine the recent advanced techniques available in India for the diagnosis of fungal infections. We conclude that the study has mainly focuses on the recent advances on the diagnosis of fungal infections in India. The prevalence of zoonotic fungal infections among humans is alarming, and global health is moving towards the existence of a one-health approach.},
}

@article {pmid40346732,
year = {2025},
author = {Helmold, M and Amann, R},
title = {Advancing ORFV-Based Therapeutics to the Clinical Stage.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {e70038},
pmid = {40346732},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {//Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz/ ; ZUK63//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Oncolytic Virotherapy/methods ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Oncolytic Viruses/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {The Orf virus (ORFV) is the prototype member of the parapoxvirus family and has long been recognized for its robust immunogenicity, favourable safety profile and its ability to stimulate both cellular and humoural immune responses without inducing significant anti-vector immunity. Despite these inherent advantages, early applications of ORFV-based technologies were limited by challenges in manufacturing scalability and uncertainties regarding clinical safety in humans. However, recent breakthroughs have transformed this therapeutic landscape. A landmark achievement is the development of Prime-2-CoV, an ORFV-based anti-COVID-19 vaccine that has advanced into human clinical trials, providing the first clinical evidence of live ORFV's feasibility, safety and immunogenicity. This milestone, together with the establishment of a good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant production process and comprehensive preclinical evaluations, has laid a robust foundation for broader clinical applications of ORFV-based therapeutics. Moreover, the use of ORFV as an oncolytic virus therapy has shown promising results, effectively converting immunologically 'cold' tumours into 'hot' ones, underscoring its versatility as a therapeutic platform. In this review, we critically assess recent advances in ORFV-based therapeutics, with a particular focus on vaccine development and oncolytic virotherapy (OVT). We thoroughly discuss the milestones and impact of the first ORFV-based clinical trial, outline strategies for optimizing the technology and provide insights into overcoming remaining challenges. Collectively, these advancements position ORFV as a highly promising and versatile platform for next-generation prophylactic and therapeutic interventions in both human and veterinary medicine, while also providing a roadmap for future innovations.},
}

Humans
*Oncolytic Virotherapy/methods
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Clinical Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Oncolytic Viruses/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid40346621,
year = {2025},
author = {Kenney, M and Mamo, L},
title = {Precision public health after Covid-19: a scoping review.},
journal = {International journal for equity in health},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {129},
pmid = {40346621},
issn = {1475-9276},
support = {2218494//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; 2218494//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Public Health/methods ; *Health Equity ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Precision Medicine ; },
abstract = {"Precision public health" (PPH) emerged in 2015 as a charismatic vision to revolutionize traditional public health with data-driven solutions to the world's most challenging public health problems. A central goal of PPH is to use population-level data to improve health equity by targeting geographically localized at-risk populations. For this article, we conducted a scoping review to investigate whether and how PPH approaches were used for Covid-19 pandemic response and how they incorporated health equity goals in their approaches. We found that during the Covid-19 pandemic, discussions of PPH in the academic literature mostly focused on potential future implementation of PPH rather than on-the-ground Covid-19 pandemic response. In the few articles that described a research project and/or public health intervention at the intersection of PPH and Covid-19, researchers articulated PPH together with three sets of Covid-19 era public health practices: 1) vulnerability indexes; 2) near real-time surveillance; 3) pathogen sequencing. In each of these articulations, the most common method for achieving health equity was using epidemiological surveillance data to create risk stratification to direct resources to the most vulnerable. As these new articulations are tentative and have not yet become common in public health literature and policy, the article ends with a critical call to interrogate which versions of health equity are enacted and foreclosed in data-driven approaches to public health and how PPH can best serve vulnerable populations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Public Health/methods
*Health Equity
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Precision Medicine

@article {pmid40346581,
year = {2025},
author = {Kuandyk, A and Toleukhanova, N and Dmitriyeva, M and Suleimenov, T and Sarssenov, D and Mamytkhan, R and Sakhayev, M and Tleubergenov, A and Toleubayev, M},
title = {Indicators associated with job morale of physicians in low- and middle-income countries during the COVID- 19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {669},
pmid = {40346581},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Morale ; *Job Satisfaction ; *Developing Countries ; Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; *Physicians/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Motivation ; Depression/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID- 19 pandemic has placed immense strain on healthcare systems around the globe, with low- and middle-income countries facing unique challenges due to limited resources and fragile healthcare infrastructures. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to define the levels of four indicators of job morale (job motivation, job satisfaction, burnout, and depression symptoms) among physicians working in public healthcare settings in low- and middle-income countries.

METHODS: A comprehensive search of Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and grey literature was performed. Studies were eligible if at least one job morale indicator (job motivation, job satisfaction, burnout, or depression symptoms) was assessed using quantitative methods, and at least 50% of the sample were qualified physicians working in low- and middle-income countries during the COVID- 19 pandemic. Random effects meta-analyses, planned sub-group analyses, and meta-regression were performed.

RESULTS: Overall, 82 studies involving 65,431 participants across 26 middle-income countries met the inclusion criteria for the review. The pooled random effect estimates of the prevalence of burnout suggest that 49% of physicians working in middle-income countries during the COVID- 19 pandemic suffered from professional burnout. The overall estimate of the mean was 24.64, which also indicated a high level of burnout. The pooled random effect estimates of the prevalence of depression symptoms varied from 41 to 58%, depending on the adopted scale. Sufficient data were not available for meta-analyses of job motivation and job satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that job morale among physicians working in middle-income countries was generally low during the COVID- 19 pandemic. However, due to substantial variation and limited methodological quality among the studies included, any conclusions offered should be approached with caution. Future research should focus on assessing job morale in low-income regions and identifying effective resilience strategies to support interventions aimed at improving job morale.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Morale
*Job Satisfaction
*Developing Countries
Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology
*Physicians/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Motivation
Depression/epidemiology

@article {pmid40344415,
year = {2025},
author = {Bruno Ortiz, TN and DeChristofaro, SC and Cheng, M and Alegría, M},
title = {Community Health Workers Research: Where Are We Now? A Narrative Review of an Expanding Workforce for Mental Health.},
journal = {Harvard review of psychiatry},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {103-113},
doi = {10.1097/HRP.0000000000000427},
pmid = {40344415},
issn = {1465-7309},
mesh = {Humans ; *Community Health Workers/education ; *COVID-19 ; *Mental Health Services ; },
abstract = {In an evolving health care landscape, community health workers (CHWs) have emerged as invaluable assets, bridging gaps to mental health service access and fostering community resilience. In this article, we explore the multifaceted responsibilities shouldered by CHWs, encompassing outreach, education, and support, and underscore their unique abilities to establish trust within diverse communities. We also highlight evolving recognition of CHWs as integral health care team members and examine the growing body of evidence on CHW effectiveness in enhancing mental health outcomes, reducing disparities, and promoting preventative measures. Additionally, we review how, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CHW role has shifted with increased demand for their services within the mental health care landscape. The pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities in existing health care structures, disproportionately affecting communities with limited resource access, including mental health support. Furthermore, we review six primary research domains that could potentially help expand the CHW workforce: standardization and training, sustainability and retention, integration into health systems, impact measurement, cost-effectiveness and financing, and scaling up and adaptation. Last, we examine the pandemic's transformative effects on CHWs; we shed light on their resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges and underscore their heightened relevance within the evolving health care response paradigm post-COVID.},
}

Humans
*Community Health Workers/education
*COVID-19
*Mental Health Services

@article {pmid40343622,
year = {2025},
author = {Trigg, LA and Farmer, C and Muthukumar, M and Wilson, ECF and Lovell, A and Lee, D},
title = {The Cost Effectiveness of Elective Surgical Procedures with Longer NHS Waiting Lists: A Targeted Review.},
journal = {Applied health economics and health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40343622},
issn = {1179-1896},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to review the evidence for the cost effectiveness of elective surgeries with long waiting lists within the NHS in England. This is to inform understanding of national spending priorities in the context of significant demand for elective surgeries and to inform the debate on appropriate cost-effectiveness thresholds across healthcare decision making.

METHODS: We conducted a targeted literature review to identify published cost-effectiveness analyses for nine elective procedures with long waiting lists in the NHS, selected based on previous reviews. These were percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG), hysterectomy, cholecystectomy, knee replacement, groin hernia repair, hip replacement, prostatectomy, and cataract surgery. We made comparisons adjusted for currency and price year (2024).

RESULTS: We identified 21 evaluations; in these, the cost effectiveness of surgeries was compared with no surgery (n = 9), medical management (n = 5), and between early and delayed surgery (n = 10). The evaluations reported that almost all procedures would be considered cost effective yielding incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) below £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained. Cholecystectomy, prostatectomy, hip and knee replacement surgeries were associated with ICERs of between £5,000 and £10,000.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings offer insights for policymakers on optimising finite healthcare resources, particularly post-COVID-19, with surgical waiting lists a priority for the NHS. Prioritising these elective procedures is likely to be a highly cost-effective use of NHS resources. Allocation of investment to areas that are more cost effective than others is likely to increase the efficiency of the NHS, resulting in a net health gain compared with the reimbursement of less cost-effective interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40343424,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhattacharya, S and Bhattacharjee, S and Singh, A},
title = {Human Metapneumovirus: A Comprehensive Epidemiological Analysis of a Global Respiratory Threat.},
journal = {Infection & chemotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3947/ic.2025.0019},
pmid = {40343424},
issn = {2093-2340},
abstract = {Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen that contributes to acute respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Since its discovery in 2001, HMPV has become a global health concern, with epidemiological data revealing seasonal peaks and notable genetic diversity. The virus is associated with a wide range of respiratory illnesses, including bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma exacerbations, leading to substantial hospitalization rates and healthcare costs. This review examines the epidemiology of HMPV, focusing on pre- and post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) trends, transmission patterns, and the impact on at-risk populations. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the seasonality of HMPV, with altered patterns of viral circulation and co-infection with other respiratory pathogens, such as respiratory syncytial virus and influenza. Despite its considerable impact, HMPV remains under-recognized and lacks specific antivirals or vaccines, leaving management largely supportive. Advances in molecular diagnostics, including RT-PCR and potential serological methods, offer hope for improved detection and epidemiological tracking. Moreover, research into monoclonal antibodies, antiviral treatments, and vaccines is ongoing, with promising results in preclinical models. Enhanced surveillance systems and integrated approaches to monitor co-circulating viruses are essential for mitigating the burden of HMPV. This review underscores the need for continued research, public health strategies, and global collaboration to address the challenges posed by HMPV, particularly in high-risk populations and regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.},
}

@article {pmid40343212,
year = {2025},
author = {Ofori, MA and Lartey, S and Durneva, P and Jha, N and Mittal, N and Roy, S and Zeba, Z and Chirwa, S and Saulsberry-Scarboro, N and Taylor, M and Joshi, A},
title = {Visual communication of public health data: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in digital health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1555231},
pmid = {40343212},
issn = {2673-253X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Visual communications (VC) play a crucial role in effectively conveying public health data to diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public. Although the U.S. government invests heavily in health data and data accessibility, health data are not entirely accessible or easily understood. This can be attributed to data sharing and visualization challenges. VC challenges have created public health information gaps which are compounded in emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially impacting poor health outcomes and increasing health inequities.

OBJECTIVE: To examine visualization tools and techniques effective for public health visual data communication.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted to summarize the available evidence related to visualization techniques and tools for public health visual data communication as well as related principles and best practices. Original peer-reviewed articles published in English that involve visualization, user-centered design of visual public health applications/interfaces, visual analytics, infographics, or dashboards from PubMed database from 2020 to 2024 were included. Also, review articles, commentaries, editorials, posters, systematic and scoping articles were excluded from this review. In all, twenty-eight (28) studies were included.

RESULTS: There were 25 different visualization techniques identified which included charts and graphs (e.g., bar charts, line charts, pie charts, bubble charts, box plots, scatter plots), maps (e.g., choropleth maps, hotspot maps, and heatmaps), and specialized visualizations (e.g., sunburst diagrams, alluvial plots, upset plots, circos). These visuals were displayed employing different programming and statistical tools and libraries like R, Python, Power BI, Tableau, ArcGIS, and custom web-based applications. The visuals measured different types of data accessibility, pattern and trends identification, association and relationships of univariate and bivariate data, as well as exploring multidimensional forms of health data. The visualizations were applied in different public health domains, such as HIV prevention and care, public health communication, interventions, surveillance, policy measures and decision-making, and improving health education.

CONCLUSION: Dashboards and web-based tools combined with static visualizations like charts, maps, or specialized plots can help with data exploration, pattern recognition, and dissemination of health information. Effective communication of public health data promotes informed decision-making, creates awareness, and leads to improved and better health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40343137,
year = {2025},
author = {Foley, DA and Phuong, LK},
title = {RSV: an update on prevention and management.},
journal = {Australian prescriber},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {34-39},
pmid = {40343137},
issn = {0312-8008},
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory tract infections in infants and young children, and adults over 60 years of age. Infants born prematurely, adults aged over 75 years, individuals with medical conditions such as chronic cardiac or respiratory disease, or obesity, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are at increased risk of severe RSV disease. As the management of RSV disease is mainly supportive, routine testing for RSV in people with a respiratory illness is not recommended. In high-risk populations and individuals presenting with severe illness, respiratory virus testing should prioritise influenza and COVID-19, as there are specific antiviral drugs for these diseases. Recent approval of RSV vaccines and a new long-acting RSV monoclonal antibody has created opportunities to minimise adverse outcomes associated with RSV infection. Protection against severe RSV disease in infants can be achieved through vaccination of their mother between weeks 28 and 36 of pregnancy, or by administering an RSV monoclonal antibody after delivery. There is currently no RSV vaccine approved for neonates or infants. For older adults, at the time of writing there are 2 approved RSV vaccines available.},
}

@article {pmid40342869,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, D and Hua, W and Sun, F and Wen, C and Cheong, LY and Xie, R and Chan, KH and Chan, SCW and Li, X and Ye, S and Yap, DYH},
title = {The changes in global burden of autoimmune diseases two years after the COVID-19 pandemic: a trend analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.},
journal = {Journal of translational autoimmunity},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100289},
pmid = {40342869},
issn = {2589-9090},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Data on the epidemiological changes in the global burden of autoimmune diseases (ADs) after the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is lacking. This study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global burden of ADs, including psoriasis (PsO), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), type 1 diabetes (T1DM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS: Age-standardized rates (ASR), including incidence (ASIR), prevalence (ASPR), disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and death (ASDR), were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 from 1990 to 2021. The changes in number and ASR of ADs burden were assessed by absolute and relative increases comparing 2021 to 2019. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to determine whether the year 2019 marked the substantial changes in trends of ASR across global, 21 geographical regions, and 204 countries. The correlations between COVID-19 incidence, vaccination and the relative increased ASIR/ASPR of ADs were also evaluated.

RESULTS: Joinpoint regression analysis identified 2019 as a pivotal year, marking a global increase in the burden of PsO. The global ASR of PsO in 2021 showed an increased incidence, prevalence, and DALYs of 0.78, 5, and 0.33 DALYs per 100,000, respectively, compared to 2019 (194.1 × 10[3] cases, 1651.3 × 10[3] cases, and 131.4 × 10[3] DALYs, respectively). Notable absolute increases in PsO incidence rates in 2021 were observed in regions with a high socio-demographic index, particularly among individuals aged 50 to 54 and among males. Furthermore, 2019 marked a joinpoint with increased ASIR or ASPR of ADs in various regions, notably PsO in High-income North America, Southern Latin America, and South Asia, as well as IBD in Southern and Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa, Central Europe, and East Asia. Regional data from the USA, England, and Japan indicated a positive correlation between COVID-19 incidence and relative increases in the burden of PsO in 2020 (Spearman R 0.35, 0.24, and 0.36, respectively, for incidence; R 0.35, 0.2, and 0.36, respectively, for prevalence; all p < 0.05). Additionally, 2021 state-level vaccination rates in the USA were negatively correlated with the relative increases in the ASIR of PsO and RA (R: 0.27 and -0.54, respectively; p < 0.001 for all), as well as the ASPR of PsO, RA, and MS (R: 0.45, -0.49, and -0.41, respectively; p < 0.01 for all) in 2021.

CONCLUSIONS: The year 2019 marked a pivotal point for increased global burden of PsO and regional burdens of other ADs. These observations have important implications for subsequent healthcare planning and resource allocation.},
}

@article {pmid40341792,
year = {2025},
author = {Madiha, and Shahzadi, A and Ashiq, Z},
title = {Community engagement: the missing piece in solving the puzzle of XDR-typhoid spread in Pakistan.},
journal = {Journal of public health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40341792},
issn = {1745-655X},
abstract = {Typhoid has been a major infectious health threat for the masses in Pakistan with increasing antimicrobial resistance, socio-economic decline, and environmental challenges. Since 2019, the percentage of cases has reduced with the implementation of Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) program but reports of widened geographical spread particularly as aftermath of flooding in 2022 and resistance to Azithromycin or Meropenem in adult population are a matter of serious concern. Now is the right time to reconsider whether strategies like mass immunization or health infrastructure development solely can combat the hazards of Extensively Drug-Resistant (XDR)-Typhoid. Public health policies developed due to COVID-19, such as incorporating all stakeholders especially the public through community engagement, may provide a collaborative effort to lessen the prevailing threat of antibiotic resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40341155,
year = {2025},
author = {Brown, MEL and Finn, G and Burford, B and Vance, G},
title = {Changes to national postgraduate medical education during COVID-19: a scoping review of practice and impact within the UK.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e099766},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2025-099766},
pmid = {40341155},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; *Education, Medical, Graduate/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Curriculum ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Explore what is known about the impact of changes made at a national level to UK postgraduate medical education during COVID-19.

DESIGN: A scoping review, following Arksey and O'Malley's framework, reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist.

DATA SOURCES: Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and ERIC were searched for peer-reviewed literature, and grey literature was searched via DuckDuckGo. The initial search was conducted on 17 January 2023 and updated on 5 June 2024. Forward citation tracking was performed.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: English-language studies of any design examining national-level adaptations to postgraduate medical education (eg, curricula, examinations and Annual Review of Competency Panels (ARCPs)) within the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies were excluded, which focused solely on undergraduate education, international settings, grassroots-level changes (eg, to individual teaching sessions), or where full text was unobtainable.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data were extracted using a piloted charting form and analysed thematically to identify recurring patterns across studies. Basic numerical data were collected to describe study characteristics.

RESULTS: Of 1067 records screened, 30 studies met inclusion criteria. Most were cross-sectional surveys, with a strong representation from surgical and craft specialties. Four themes were identified: (1) impact on career development (including concerns about career delays and shifts in aspirations); (2) impact on trainee progression (highlighting delays due to ARCP outcomes 10.1/10.2 and reduced procedure accreditation); (3) changes in teaching and learning (such as a shift to online learning and cancelled rotations) and (4) supervision and support (revealing mixed experiences, with reports of burnout and inadequate organisational guidance). The systemic impact was uneven across specialties and training stages.

CONCLUSIONS: National-level changes mitigated immediate educational disruptions but are beginning to reveal long-term consequences for career development, workforce planning and trainee well-being, highlighting the need for resilient and equitable future frameworks.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
United Kingdom/epidemiology
*Education, Medical, Graduate/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
Curriculum
Pandemics

@article {pmid40341071,
year = {2025},
author = {Jafari, M and Khani, M and Akbari, T and Farahani, E and Bayat, F and Bagheri, A and Nasrollahizadeh, A and Ramezani, P and Ebrahimi, P and Mandegar, MH},
title = {Presentation of a residual post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect; a literature review based on a case report.},
journal = {Journal of cardiothoracic surgery},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {230},
pmid = {40341071},
issn = {1749-8090},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Myocardial Infarction/complications ; *Heart Septal Defects, Ventricular/etiology/surgery/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging ; Echocardiography ; COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In the era of modern techniques for the early diagnosis and revascularization of myocardial infarction, post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect is rarely seen. However, this potentially fatal complication of ischemic cardiac events cannot always be detected and diagnosed in a straightforward pattern of practice. This study presents an initially delayed-presented post-infarction ventricular septal defect.

CASE PRESENTATION: The patient was a 58-year-old white man who presented to the cardiology clinic complaining of moderate exertional dyspnea initiated two months ago and exacerbated by the time. His medical history includes an admission three years prior, where he was diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia and a myocardial infarction that was complicated by a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and hemodynamic instability. This condition was managed through urgent surgical revascularization and closure of the defect. Due to his current symptoms, further cardiac investigations were planned. A transthoracic echocardiogram was recommended after detecting a grade 3/6 systolic murmur during the physical examination. The initial assessment using an apical four-chamber TTE appeared normal. However, when performing a modified view with a posterior tilt, a bulging septum was observed, leaning toward the right ventricle. This bulging contained a defect with a left-to-right shunt, identified as a residual defect in the area of the repaired patch, along with a myocardial aneurysm. Due to the inconsequential findings from the echocardiogram study, the patient was scheduled for a follow-up echocardiogram, which showed no changes after six months. Additionally, the patient underwent therapeutic management addressing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

CONCLUSION: Although post-infarction ventricular septal defects are rarely seen in the revascularization era, the COVID-19 era was associated with an increase in the prevalence of this complication. It is important to be vigilant for patients who experienced an index event during that time. This potentially fatal complication can present with new issues following the initial event, such as residual defects. Comprehensive imaging studies are necessary to detect the underlying pathology.

KEY CLINICAL MESSAGE: Diagnosing post-infarction ventricular septal defect requires the hypervigilance and precision of the cardiologist, who examines the patient and performs the cardiac imaging. Therefore, comprehensive investigations are crucial in patients with a suspicious history of ischemic cardiac events.},
}

Humans
Male
Middle Aged
*Myocardial Infarction/complications
*Heart Septal Defects, Ventricular/etiology/surgery/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging
Echocardiography
COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40341010,
year = {2025},
author = {Ogungbe, O and Jabakhanji, SB and Mehta, R and McCaffrey, J and Byrne, D and Hurley, S and Rosman, L and Bansah, EC and Ibukun, F and Quarshie, IA and Lord, K and Lu, Y and Wang, Y and Rayani, A and Liu, H and Joseph, A and Escobosa, A and Nyamuame, I and Lee, J and Meng, N and Jehanzeb, I and Akinyemi, T and Nohara, S and Mediano, MFF and Yeboah-Kordieh, Y and de Sousa, C and Farhat, J and de Mello, RB and Taeed, T and Appel, LJ and Angell, SY and Gregg, EW and Matsushita, K},
title = {Disruption to diabetes and hypertension care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America and the Caribbean and mitigation approaches: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {660},
pmid = {40341010},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {22/RP/10091//RCSI was provided by Science Foundation Ireland, Converge Programme/ ; 22/RP/10091//RCSI was provided by Science Foundation Ireland, Converge Programme/ ; 22/RP/10091//RCSI was provided by Science Foundation Ireland, Converge Programme/ ; 22/RP/10091//RCSI was provided by Science Foundation Ireland, Converge Programme/ ; 22/RP/10091//RCSI was provided by Science Foundation Ireland, Converge Programme/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Latin America/epidemiology ; *Hypertension/therapy/epidemiology ; *Diabetes Mellitus/therapy/epidemiology ; Caribbean Region/epidemiology ; *Primary Health Care/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted care for non-communicable diseases globally. This study synthesizes evidence on disruptions to primary care, focusing on hypertension and diabetes care and mitigation approaches taken during the pandemic in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review, searching nine electronic databases for studies from January 2020 to December 2022 on COVID-19-related primary care disruptions and interventions, including studies on hospital-based interventions given their relevance to the pandemic response in LAC. We adapted the Primary Health Care Performance Initiative framework to develop our search strategy and synthesize data. For studies reporting interventions, we included studies conducted outside of LAC.

RESULTS: Of 33,510 references screened, 388 studies were included (259 reported disruptions in LAC, 61 interventions in LAC, 63 interventions outside LAC, and five interventions from countries within and outside LAC), with three-quarters presenting data from Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and Peru; few studies focused on rural areas. Additionally, the few studies that adequately quantified care disruptions reported a reduction in hypertension and diabetes control during the pandemic (e.g., hypertension control rate decreased from 68 to 55% in Mexico). Frequently reported causes of disruption included burnout and mental health challenges among healthcare workers (with disproportionate effects by type of worker), reduced medication supplies, and reduced frequency of clinic visits by patients (e.g., due to financial constraints). The most reported interventions included remote care strategies (e.g., smartphone applications, virtual meeting platforms) and mental health programs for healthcare workers. Remote care strategies were deemed feasible for care delivery, triaging, and clinical support for non-physicians. Patients were generally satisfied with telemedicine, whereas providers had mixed perceptions. Robust evidence on the effectiveness of remote care strategies for diabetes and hypertension care was unavailable in LAC.

CONCLUSION: Hypertension and diabetes control appeared to worsen in LAC during the pandemic. Major reported causes of care disruptions were workforce issues, reduced medication supply, and changes in patient perceptions of seeking and receiving primary healthcare. Remote care strategies were feasible for various purposes and were well received by patients. However, the lack of data on intervention effectiveness underscores the importance of strengthening research capacity to generate robust evidence during future pandemics. Developing resilient healthcare systems able to provide care for hypertension and diabetes during future pandemics will depend on investment in the healthcare workforce, medical supply chain, health data and research infrastructure, and technology readiness.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Latin America/epidemiology
*Hypertension/therapy/epidemiology
*Diabetes Mellitus/therapy/epidemiology
Caribbean Region/epidemiology
*Primary Health Care/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Telemedicine

@article {pmid40340966,
year = {2025},
author = {Greenup, EP and Best, D},
title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis of no show or non-attendance rates among telehealth and in-person models of care.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {663},
pmid = {40340966},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *No-Show Patients/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Retrospective Studies ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Comparisons of no-show rates between virtual and in-person models of care are commonly reported during evaluation, indicating how coveted improvements in attendance are to health service providers. This study seeks to synthesise the data from studies that make these comparisons, providing a more accurate indication of what may expected from the use of virtual care models for clinicians and administrators.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis of 45 retrospective cohort studies.

METHODS: A literature review involving five databases was conducted, identifying 441 articles for screening. 45 were included for further analysis. A Random effects model was used to calculate the effect size, with further analysis conducted to determine heterogeneity and publication bias.

RESULTS: The Random effects model estimated a reduced likelihood non-attendance in patients receiving virtual care compared to in-person groups (OR = 0.61). An I[2] indicated a high degree of heterogeneity among the studies analysed. The Fail-Safe N suggested that the results are robust and not significantly influenced by publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS: The meta-analysis indicated that on average, telehealth models of care implemented since COVID-19 provide a moderate reduction in risk of patient non-attendance when compared to in-person alternatives.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*No-Show Patients/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Retrospective Studies

@article {pmid40340891,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, K and Van Name, J and Xi, L},
title = {D-dimer as Biomarker for Prognosis of Coronary Artery Disease and Heart Failure: Reappraisal of its Central Role.},
journal = {Cardiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-16},
doi = {10.1159/000546154},
pmid = {40340891},
issn = {1421-9751},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: D-dimer is a fibrinogen degradation product formed by the breakdown of cross-linked fibrin in a series of enzyme-mediated steps. Since the D-dimer assay allows for detection of thrombin production and endogenous fibrinolysis, it has been increasingly used in clinics as a screening test to exclude venous thromboembolism and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Additionally, D-dimer has been evaluated for determining the initiation of anticoagulation therapy in patients with selected cardiovascular disease.

SUMMARY: This narrative review has evaluated the updated evidence from several recent clinical studies/trials and provides a reappraisal of the utility of D-dimer assay for disease prognosis and clinical management decisions in patients with stable coronary artery disease, acute coronary syndrome, and heart failure. We further discussed several confounding factors that may affect circulating levels of D-dimer, including those observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

KEY MESSAGES: Better understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying D-dimer formation would improve accuracy and specificity of D-dimer as biomarker for predicting long-term outcome of the severity of coronary artery disease and heart failure.},
}

@article {pmid40340080,
year = {2025},
author = {Kakehi, S and Cooblall, C and Pizzi, L and Devlin, N and Reed, SD and Slejko, JF and Wu, O},
title = {How Well Are Women Represented in Authorship in HEOR? An Analysis of Value in Health: An ISPOR Report.},
journal = {Value in health : the journal of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research},
volume = {28},
number = {5},
pages = {671-675},
doi = {10.1016/j.jval.2025.02.006},
pmid = {40340080},
issn = {1524-4733},
mesh = {*Authorship ; Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Developing Countries ; *Periodicals as Topic/statistics & numerical data ; *Publishing/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to report women's authorship in Value in Health in terms of articles submitted to and accepted for publication before and during the COVID-19 pandemic to evaluate its potential impact on women's research productivity.

METHODS: The proportion of women corresponding and first authors among submitted and accepted articles were analyzed and compared between the 2 periods: before (2018-2019) and during the COVID pandemic (2020-2021). The proportion of women corresponding authors from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) was compared with the proportion from the rest of world (ROW).

RESULTS: A total of 4910 Value in Health submissions were identified from 2018 to 2021. The proportion of women's first and corresponding authorship of articles submitted to and accepted for publication in Value in Health slightly increased from before the pandemic to during the pandemic, although not statistically significantly. The difference in proportions of women corresponding authors between LMIC and ROW countries was statistically significant for both periods: before and during the pandemic. Logistic regression models determined that submissions from ROW countries have an increased odds of women corresponding authorship than submissions from LMIC countries (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.11-1.46).

CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study suggest that the pandemic did not exert an adverse effect on women submitting to or publishing articles in Value in Health. Additional studies are needed to explore whether the proportions are representative of the workforce and investigate whether these distributions change in the future.},
}

*Authorship
Humans
Female
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Developing Countries
*Periodicals as Topic/statistics & numerical data
*Publishing/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40340037,
year = {2025},
author = {Delgado-Fernández, M and Ruiz-Mesa, JD and Rojas-González, A and García-Gemar, GM and Fuentes-López, A and de Salazar-González, A and García-García, F},
title = {Fresh frozen plasma for neutralizing SARS-CoV-2: "An exploratory cross-sectional study and review of the state of the art".},
journal = {Enfermedades infecciosas y microbiologia clinica (English ed.)},
volume = {43},
number = {5},
pages = {282-290},
doi = {10.1016/j.eimce.2025.03.014},
pmid = {40340037},
issn = {2529-993X},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19/therapy/immunology ; *Plasma/immunology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Blood Donors ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Adult ; Spain ; Immunization, Passive ; Immunoglobulin G/blood ; COVID-19 Serotherapy ; },
abstract = {Restitution of humoral immunodeficiency is essential to clear SARS-CoV-2. Intravenous unspecific immunoglobulins are expensive and restricted. So recently donated fresh frozen plasma (FFP) could be useful in this scenario but, are all units neutralizing against SARS-CoV-2? We explored this on 52 donations obtained from "Centro de Transfusión, Tejidos y Células de Málaga, Spain", from April to June 2022. Donors status about SARS-CoV-2 previous infection or vaccination was unknown. Neutralizing activity (at dilutions≥1/160) against real Delta (not circulating), BA.2 (dominant circulating variant), BA.5 (irrupting variant), and BQ.1.1 and XBB.1.5 (not circulating yet) was determined. Higher anti-Spike IgG antibodies cut-offs predicted efficacy of FFP. Different cut-offs have been reported in the literature, but all papers have in common that levels over the higher range of quantification can predict neutralizing activity of recently donated FFP against circulating variants of concern, if used early after donation, not requiring clinical data from donors.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19/therapy/immunology
*Plasma/immunology
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood
Antibodies, Viral/blood
Blood Donors
Male
Middle Aged
Female
Adult
Spain
Immunization, Passive
Immunoglobulin G/blood
COVID-19 Serotherapy

@article {pmid40338681,
year = {2025},
author = {Aslam, AM and Shinozuka, K and Muir, O and Tabaac, BJ},
title = {Mapping the Use of Ketamine in Treatment-Resistant Depression and Other Psychiatric Disorders: A Scoping Review of Practice Patterns, Efficacy, and Patient Demographic Trends.},
journal = {American journal of therapeutics},
volume = {32},
number = {3},
pages = {e242-e246},
pmid = {40338681},
issn = {1536-3686},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ketamine/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy ; United States ; *Practice Patterns, Physicians'/statistics & numerical data/trends ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Off-Label Use ; Health Services Accessibility ; Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ketamine has emerged as a novel treatment for psychiatric disorders, particularly treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Although intravenous (IV) ketamine is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for TRD, esketamine, an FDA-approved therapeutic, has contributed to the widespread clinical use of off-label IV ketamine across the United States. This scoping review highlights significant shifts in ketamine therapy, particularly after FDA approval of esketamine, the impact of COVID-19 on treatment accessibility, and increased regulatory scrutiny from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and FDA.

AREAS OF UNCERTAINTY: What are the current practice patterns, patient demographics, and barriers to accessing ketamine for psychiatric disorders, particularly TRD?

DATA SOURCES: This scoping review focused on provider utilization patterns (including frequency of ketamine administration, provider roles, and treatment settings), preferred administration methods (IV infusions, intramuscular injections, and other routes), and patient characteristics (age, sex, socioeconomic status, and primary psychiatric diagnoses treated). The Web of Science, PubMed, CBM, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, University Theses, and Embase databases were searched.

RESULTS: Two survey-based studies were included. IV administration was the most common method of administration reported in both studies, with alternative methods such as intramuscular and sublingual routes emerging in limited use. Patients receiving ketamine therapy were predominantly middle aged (36-64 years old), with financial barriers identified as a notable obstacle because of limited insurance coverage. Access to ketamine was limited in rural areas, illustrating the need for expanded provider networks. Private clinics exhibited greater flexibility in treatment approaches than hospital settings, which adhered to standardized protocols. The absence of long-term outcome data and variability in treatment protocols emphasize the need for standardized practices and further research.

CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review highlights the widespread use of ketamine for TRD, but reveals significant variability in practice patterns and accessibility barriers. Findings emphasize the need for standardized protocols, expanded insurance coverage, and further research to optimize the role of ketamine in psychiatric care.},
}

Humans
*Ketamine/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy
United States
*Practice Patterns, Physicians'/statistics & numerical data/trends
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Off-Label Use
Health Services Accessibility
Adult

@article {pmid40338485,
year = {2025},
author = {Alves, MCS and da Silva, RCC and de Leitão-Júnior, SSP and de Balbino, VQ},
title = {Therapeutic Approaches for COVID-19: A Review of Antiviral Treatments, Immunotherapies, and Emerging Interventions.},
journal = {Advances in therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40338485},
issn = {1865-8652},
support = {001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global health crisis, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has presented unprecedented challenges to global healthcare systems, leading to rapid advances in treatment development. This review comprehensively examines the current therapeutic approaches for managing COVID-19, including direct-acting antivirals, immunomodulators, anticoagulants, and adjuvant therapies, as well as emerging and experimental approaches. Direct-acting antivirals target various stages of the viral life cycle, offering specific intervention points, while immunomodulators aim to modulate the host's immune response, reducing disease severity. Anticoagulant therapies address the coagulopathy frequently observed in severe cases, and adjuvant treatments provide supportive care to improve overall outcomes. We also explore the challenges and limitations of implementing these treatments, such as drug resistance, variable patient responses, and access to therapies, especially in resource-limited settings. The review also discusses future perspectives, including the potential of next-generation vaccines, personalized medicine, and global collaboration in shaping future COVID-19 treatment paradigms. Continuous innovation, combined with an integrated and adaptable approach, will be crucial to effectively managing COVID-19 and mitigating the impact of future pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid40337590,
year = {2025},
author = {Lal, P and Gupta, S},
title = {Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Children and Adolescents: A Narrative Review of Mental Health Challenges, Interventions, and Long-Term Trajectories.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e81840},
pmid = {40337590},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents globally. This comprehensive narrative review synthesizes current research on the pandemic's psychological effects on young people, examining emotional distress, behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, educational disruptions, and the exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science, covering articles published from January 2020 to December 2024. Studies focusing on children and adolescents (aged 0-18 years) that examined mental health outcomes related to the COVID-19 pandemic were included. Data extraction was performed using a standardized form, and a narrative synthesis approach was employed to analyze and integrate the findings. Key findings reveal a substantial increase in anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder among children and adolescents during the pandemic. School closures, social isolation, and disrupted routines have contributed to these mental health challenges. Sleep patterns have been notably affected, with delayed bedtimes, increased sleep disturbances, and a higher prevalence of insomnia and nightmares. The pandemic has widened educational disparities, particularly affecting children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions have experienced exacerbated symptoms and faced challenges in accessing care. Various interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy, social-emotional learning programs, and digital mental health support, have shown promise in mitigating the pandemic's psychological impact on young people. Children were more affected, as they faced a global crisis for the first time with limited coping skills. Disruptions in routine, social isolation, and family stressors heightened anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues, making them more affected. This review emphasizes the need for continued research, targeted interventions, and policy development to address the long-term mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents.},
}

@article {pmid40336572,
year = {2025},
author = {Spunde, K and Korotkaja, K and Sominskaya, I and Zajakina, A},
title = {Genetic adjuvants: A paradigm shift in vaccine development and immune modulation.},
journal = {Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {102536},
pmid = {40336572},
issn = {2162-2531},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the urgency of developing effective vaccines to combat infectious diseases, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and immunocompromised. While recombinant protein vaccines offer safety, their poor immunogenicity highlights the need for advanced vaccination platforms. New genetic/nucleic acid vaccine formulations like plasmid DNA and mRNA showed efficiency and safety in preclinical and clinical studies; however, they demand innovative adjuvants because their mechanism of action differs from traditional protein vaccines. Genetic adjuvants-encoded by nucleic acids within DNA, RNA, or viral vectors-emerge as a promising solution by targeting and modulating specific immune pathways, including antigen presentation, T cell activation, and memory formation. These innovative adjuvants enhance vaccine efficacy by fine-tuning innate and adaptive immune responses, overcoming immune senescence, and addressing the challenges of CD8[+] T cell activation in immunocompromised populations. This review explores the potential of genetically encoded adjuvants, including cytokines, chemokines, and other immune modulators. By comparing these adjuvants to traditional formulations, we highlight their capacity to address the limitations of modern vaccines while discussing their integration with emerging technologies like RNA-based vaccines. As genetic adjuvants advance toward clinical application, understanding their mechanisms and optimizing their delivery is pivotal to unlocking next-generation immunization strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40335714,
year = {2025},
author = {Kiyono, H and Ernst, PB},
title = {Nasal vaccines for respiratory infections.},
journal = {Nature},
volume = {641},
number = {8062},
pages = {321-330},
pmid = {40335714},
issn = {1476-4687},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Administration, Intranasal ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; Immunoglobulin G/immunology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccines/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Beginning with Edward Jenner's discovery of the smallpox vaccine, the ever-expanding repertoire of vaccines against pathogens has saved many lives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a revolutionary mRNA injectable vaccine emerged that effectively controlled the severity of disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. This vaccine induced potent antigen-specific neutralizing serum IgG antibodies, but was limited in its ability to prevent viral invasion at the respiratory surfaces. Nasal vaccines have attracted attention as a potential strategy to combat respiratory infections and prepare for future pandemics. Input from disciplines such as microbiology, biomaterials, bioengineering and chemistry have complemented the immunology to create innovative delivery systems. This approach to vaccine delivery has yielded nasal vaccines that induce secretory IgA as well as serum IgG antibodies, which are expected to prevent pathogen invasion, thereby diminishing transmission and disease severity. For a nasal vaccine to be successful, the complexity of the relevant anatomical, physiological and immunological properties, including the proximity of the central nervous system to the nasal cavity, must be considered. In this Review, we discuss past and current efforts as well as future directions for developing safe and effective nasal vaccines for the prevention of respiratory infections.},
}

Animals
Humans
*Administration, Intranasal
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
Immunoglobulin G/immunology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccines/administration & dosage

@article {pmid40335476,
year = {2025},
author = {O'Mahoney, LL and Routen, A and Gillies, C and Jenkins, SA and Almaqhawi, A and Ayoubkhani, D and Banerjee, A and Brightling, C and Calvert, M and Cassambai, S and Ekezie, W and Funnell, MP and Welford, A and Peace, A and Evans, RA and Jeffers, S and Kingsnorth, AP and Pareek, M and Seidu, S and Wilkinson, TJ and Willis, A and Shafran, R and Stephenson, T and Sterne, J and Ward, H and Ward, T and Khunti, K},
title = {The risk of Long Covid symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled studies.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {4249},
pmid = {40335476},
issn = {2041-1723},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/physiopathology/virology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/epidemiology/physiopathology/virology ; Risk Factors ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {The global evidence on the risk of symptoms of Long Covid in general populations infected with SARS-CoV-2 compared to uninfected comparator/control populations remains unknown. We conducted a systematic literature search using multiple electronic databases from January 1, 2022, to August 1, 2024. Included studies had ≥100 people with confirmed or self-reported COVID-19 at ≥28 days following infection onset, and an uninfected comparator/control group. Results were summarised descriptively and meta-analyses were conducted to derive pooled risk ratio estimates. 50 studies totaling 14,661,595 people were included. In all populations combined, there was an increased risk of a wide range of 39 out of 40 symptoms in those infected with SARS‑CoV‑2 compared to uninfected controls. The symptoms with the highest pooled relative risks were loss of smell (RR 4.31; 95% CI 2.66, 6.99), loss of taste (RR 3.71; 95% CI 2.22, 7.26), poor concentration (RR 2.68; 95% CI 1.66, 4.33), impaired memory (RR 2.53; 95% CI 1.82, 3.52), and hair loss/alopecia (RR 2.38; 95% CI 1.69, 3.33). This evidence synthesis, of 50 controlled studies with a cumulative participant count exceeding 14 million people, highlights a significant risk of diverse long-term symptoms in individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2, especially among those who were hospitalised.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/physiopathology/virology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/epidemiology/physiopathology/virology
Risk Factors
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity

@article {pmid40334268,
year = {2025},
author = {Chong, RLK and Chan, ASE and Chua, CMS and Lai, YF},
title = {Telehealth Interventions in Pharmacy Practice: Systematic Review of Reviews and Recommendations.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e57129},
doi = {10.2196/57129},
pmid = {40334268},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {*Telemedicine ; Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pharmaceutical Services/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pharmaceutical care has expanded, with telehealth playing a key role, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite global growth, existing reviews focus on specific settings or conditions, highlighting the need for broader research on public health topics and comparative studies to evaluate the effectiveness, preferences, and cost of telehealth interventions in pharmacy practice.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to unify existing literature on the impact of telehealth on future pharmacy practice and to analyze those already implemented in current pharmacy practice, with the objective of providing recommendations.

METHODS: The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework was used to guide this review. In total, 4 databases were searched for relevant studies: PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Title, abstract, and full-text screening was performed, and 18 reviews met the selection criteria. The search period was from August 1, 2012, to December 22, 2024. The quality of the reviews was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale and a GRADE-CERQual scale.

RESULTS: Based on the identified reviews, telehealth interventions were categorized into teleconsultation, telemonitoring, telecollaboration, and telesupport. Teleconsultation was the most frequently used. Telephones were most common in teleconsultations and telemonitoring, while mobile, web, or computer applications were most frequent in telesupport. A combination of methods was most used to facilitate telecollaboration, such as telephone, fax, electronic messaging, shared electronic records, and videoconferencing. The identified reviews were evaluated by health outcomes, hospital readmission rates, patient safety, adherence, satisfaction, pharmacist shortage, and quality and access to care. The use of telehealth in pharmacy has generally seen an improvement in overall outcomes compared to traditional pharmacy practice. Our results show a strong push to integrate telehealth into future pharmacy practice, with the United States leading the way in adoption, demonstrating increased care access, quality, and patient safety. In Singapore, telephone consultations have been commonly used in hospitals, though community settings lack widespread adoption. However, the growing digital literacy of older adults and innovations like chatbots and telemonitoring present opportunities to expand telehealth services. To align with this shift, pharmacy education should invest in enhancing formative training by incorporating telehealth training, ensuring future pharmacists are prepared for this evolving practice, applicable to regions with similar contexts.

CONCLUSIONS: Telehealth has shown promise in improving overall outcomes in pharmacy practice. While many countries have made strides, particularly in hospital settings, there remains an opportunity for greater adoption in community health care, driven by innovations like telemonitoring and digital literacy among older adults. The findings from this study can be used to inform future implementation of telehealth interventions in pharmacy in Singapore and other regions or cities with similar contexts.},
}

*Telemedicine
Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Pharmaceutical Services/organization & administration

@article {pmid40333653,
year = {2025},
author = {Checconi, P and Mariconda, A and Catalano, A and Ceramella, J and Pellegrino, M and Aquaro, S and Sinicropi, MS and Longo, P},
title = {Searching for New Gold(I)-Based Complexes as Anticancer and/or Antiviral Agents.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333653},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Gold/chemistry ; *Coordination Complexes/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Neoplasms/drug therapy ; Methane/analogs & derivatives/chemistry ; Heterocyclic Compounds/chemistry ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Approaches capable of simultaneously treating cancer and protecting susceptible patients from lethal infections are highly desirable, although they prove challenging. Taking inspiration from the well-known anticancer platinum complexes, successive studies about the complexation of organic compounds with other late transition metals, such as silver, gold, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium, have led to remarkable anticancer activities. Among the numerous chemical moieties studied, N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have revealed very attractive activities due to their favorable chemical properties. Specifically, gold-NHC complexes emerged as some of the most active complexes acting as antitumor agents. On the other hand, some recent studies have highlighted the involvement of these complexes in antiviral research as well. The well-known gold-based, orally available complex auranofin approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis has been suggested as a repositioned drug for both cancer and viral infections. In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, the most interesting goal could be the discovery of gold-NHC complexes as dual antiviral and anticancer agents. In this review, the most recent studies regarding the anticancer and antiviral activities of gold(I)-NHC complexes will be analyzed and discussed, offering an interesting insight into the research in this field.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
*Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Gold/chemistry
*Coordination Complexes/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Neoplasms/drug therapy
Methane/analogs & derivatives/chemistry
Heterocyclic Compounds/chemistry
Animals

@article {pmid40333633,
year = {2025},
author = {Ronca, DB and Mesquita, LO and Oliveira, D and Figueiredo, ACMG and Wen, J and Song, M and de Carvalho, KMB},
title = {Excess weight is associated with neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms in post-COVID-19 condition: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {5},
pages = {e0314892},
pmid = {40333633},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/psychology ; *Obesity/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Nervous System Diseases/etiology ; *Overweight/complications ; Risk Factors ; *Mental Disorders/etiology ; Depression ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Excess weight has been identified as a potential risk factor for post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate whether excess weight is associated with the development or experience of neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms in PCC.

METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive search of eight databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, VHL, Google Scholar, ProQuest, and medRxiv) for studies published up to July 2023. Studies were included if they assessed PCC symptoms in relation to nutritional status, specifically the development of neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms more than 12 weeks post-infection. The analysis compared exposure and controls groups (excess weight vs. normal weight; obesity vs. non-obesity). Data were synthesized using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: Of the 10,122 abstracts screened, 18 studies (n = 139,091 adults) were included. These studies included 79,050 individuals with excess weight vs 57,926 normal-weight individuals and 30,694 individuals with obesity vs 107,612 non-obese individuals. The presence of excess weight in PCC was significantly associated with persistent depression (RR = 1.21; 95% CI: 1.03-1.42), headache (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.10-1.37), memory issues (RR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.24-1.65), sleep disturbance (RR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.16-1.48), and vertigo (RR = 1.21; 95% CI: 1.04-1.41). Obesity was significantly associated with persistent headache (OR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.37-1.53), numbness (RR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.46-1.78), smell disorder (OR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.11-1.22), taste disorder (OR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.08-1.38), and vertigo (RR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.35-1.53).

CONCLUSIONS: Excess weight, including overweight and obesity, is associated with experiencing neuro-symptoms related to PCC. Individuals with these conditions urgently need enhanced personalized care management in current post-pandemic context.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/psychology
*Obesity/complications
SARS-CoV-2
*Nervous System Diseases/etiology
*Overweight/complications
Risk Factors
*Mental Disorders/etiology
Depression

@article {pmid40333566,
year = {2025},
author = {Davis, MD},
title = {2024 Year in Review: Fugitive Aerosols-Keeping the Air Clear for Patients and Staff.},
journal = {Respiratory care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/respcare.12933},
pmid = {40333566},
issn = {1943-3654},
abstract = {Although concerns about and precautions to prevent transmission of diseases through the air have existed since Hippocrates, renewed interest in risks and prevention strategies grew significantly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This altered respiratory care practice globally owing to concerns that some respiratory care procedures may generate or disperse aerosols that could spread pathogens. A paucity of evidence, as well as a lack of general consensus, existed at the pandemic onset to determine the associated risks of these procedures and best practices for mitigating those risks. This is a review of key peer-reviewed manuscripts from 2023 to 2024 discussing aerosol generation and dispersion from respiratory care procedures, as well as the mitigation of associated risks. A brief discussion of different forms of aerosols, and the risks associated with each, is also included.},
}

@article {pmid40333520,
year = {2025},
author = {Uwamahoro, H and Collier, WE and Nashar, TO and Jaynes, JM and Mortley, DG and Davis, CG and Kanyairita, GG and Abdelazim, EF and Igiramaboko, JFR and Habineza, C and Tumushimiyimana, D and Rutayisire, UN and Davis, YA and Renard, KL},
title = {Natural and Designed Cyclic Peptides as Potential Antiviral Drugs to Combat Future Coronavirus Outbreaks.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333520},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {2U54MD007585-34A34/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 5454MD007585//Tuskegee University Center for Biomedical Research/RCMI/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Peptides, Cyclic/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Animals ; COVID-19/epidemiology/virology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for effective and affordable antiviral drugs. Anthropogenic activities have increased interactions among humans, animals, and wildlife, contributing to the emergence of new and re-emerging viral diseases. RNA viruses pose significant challenges due to their rapid mutation rates, high transmissibility, and ability to adapt to host immune responses and antiviral treatments. The World Health Organization has identified several diseases (COVID-19, Ebola, Marburg, Zika, and others), all caused by RNA viruses, designated as being of priority concern as potential causes of future pandemics. Despite advances in antiviral treatments, many viruses lack specific therapeutic options, and more importantly, there is a paucity of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs. Additionally, the high costs of current treatments such as Remdesivir and Paxlovid highlight the need for more affordable antiviral drugs. Cyclic peptides from natural sources or designed through molecular modeling have shown promise as antiviral drugs with stability, low toxicity, high target specificity, and low antiviral resistance properties. This review emphasizes the urgent need to develop specific and broad-spectrum antiviral drugs and highlights cyclic peptides as a sustainable solution to combat future pandemics. Further research into these compounds could provide a new weapon to combat RNA viruses and address the gaps in current antiviral drug development.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Peptides, Cyclic/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Animals
COVID-19/epidemiology/virology

@article {pmid40333344,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, Y and Li, S and Ye, W and Wang, H and Su, J and Gao, L and Shi, R and Mou, X and Leng, SX and Xiao, C and Chen, G},
title = {Viral Infections in Elderly Individuals: A Comprehensive Overview of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza Susceptibility, Pathogenesis, and Clinical Treatment Strategies.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333344},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {2023YFE0118700//the Key R&D Program Key Special Projects for International Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation between Governments/ ; },
abstract = {As age increases, the immune function of elderly individuals gradually decreases, increasing their susceptibility to infectious diseases. Therefore, further research on common viral infections in the elderly population, especially severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza viruses, is crucial for scientific progress. This review delves into the genetic structure, infection mechanisms, and impact of coinfections with these two viruses and provides a detailed analysis of the reasons for the increased susceptibility of elderly individuals to dual viral infections. We evaluated the clinical manifestations in elderly individuals following coinfections, including complications in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. Ultimately, we have summarized the current strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza coinfections in older adults. Through these studies, we aim to reduce the risk of dual infections in elderly individuals and provide a scientific basis for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of age-related viral diseases, thereby improving their health status.},
}

@article {pmid40333310,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, P and Ray, A and Kumari, A and Sultana, A and Hora, R and Singh, K and Mehra, R and Kaur, A and Koshal, SS and Quadri, SF and Singh, SK and Roy, AD},
title = {Chronicling the Journey of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Introduction in India.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333310},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {INV-030655/GATES/Gates Foundation/United States ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Globally, pneumonia claims the lives of about 700,000 children under the age of 5 every year. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) was introduced in India phase-wise, beginning in high-burden states, and the rollout was completed nationwide by 2021-representing a major initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the campaign succeeded in maintaining progress and achieving nationwide coverage. This narrative review highlights the significant decisions, processes, and coordinated efforts of the various stakeholders involved that led to this successful PCV rollout.

METHODOLOGY: A comprehensive desk review of both published and unpublished literature relevant to pneumonia burden and the efficacy and effectiveness of PCVs, along with documentation of PCV introduction and the scale-up was carried out.

RESULTS: The documentation of the PCV journey has been broken down into four sections: pre-introduction, PCV Phase-I introduction, pan-India rapid expansion, and the period post-introduction. Since the nationwide rollout in 2021, PCV coverage in India has steadily increased, reflecting successful immunization efforts. WUENIC, which is an annual WHO, and UNICEF estimates of national immunization coverage also show a positive trend in vaccination coverage (PCV booster coverage = 25% (2021), rising to 83% (2023), aligning with the goals of the WHO and UNICEF's Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhoea (GAPPD).

CONCLUSIONS: The phased rollout was an ambitious effort by the MoHFW, which was particularly challenging given the overlap with the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, the MoHFW, along with strong collaboration from development partners and stakeholders, successfully navigated the complex rollout. Future studies on the role of PCVs in reducing antibiotic resistance and the economic benefits of PCV introduction could help policymakers sustain funding and prioritize vaccine procurement decisions.},
}

@article {pmid40333307,
year = {2025},
author = {Murala, MST and Gairola, V and Sayedahmed, EE and Mittal, SK},
title = {Next-Generation Adenoviral Vector-Based Vaccines for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333307},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {AI158177/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {This review systematically revises adenovirus (Ad) biology, vector structure, immune responses, and currently available Ad vector COVID-19 vaccines. It analyzes the challenges associated with the Ad vector-based vaccines, including preexisting vector immunity and other side effects. Moreover, this review explores novel and innovative strategies to overcome these constraints for developing next-generation vaccines for broad protection to cover emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. The future refinement of Ad vaccine platforms will be pivotal in achieving durable immunity against emerging variants for global preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid40333293,
year = {2025},
author = {Saha, A and Ghosh Roy, S and Dwivedi, R and Tripathi, P and Kumar, K and Nambiar, SM and Pathak, R},
title = {Beyond the Pandemic Era: Recent Advances and Efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines Against Emerging Variants of Concern.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333293},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Vaccination has been instrumental in curbing the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and mitigating the severity of clinical manifestations associated with COVID-19. Numerous COVID-19 vaccines have been developed to this effect, including BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna's mRNA vaccines, as well as adenovirus vector-based vaccines such as Oxford-AstraZeneca. However, the emergence of new variants and subvariants of SARS-CoV-2, characterized by enhanced transmissibility and immune evasion, poses significant challenges to the efficacy of current vaccination strategies. In this review, we aim to comprehensively outline the landscape of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) and sub-lineages that have recently surfaced in the post-pandemic years. We assess the effectiveness of existing vaccines, including their booster doses, against these emerging variants and subvariants, such as BA.2-derived sub-lineages, XBB sub-lineages, and BA.2.86 (Pirola). Furthermore, we discuss the latest advancements in vaccine technology, including multivalent and pan-coronavirus approaches, along with the development of several next-generation coronavirus vaccines, such as exosome-based, virus-like particle (VLP), mucosal, and nanomaterial-based vaccines. Finally, we highlight the key challenges and critical areas for future research to address the evolving threat of SARS-CoV-2 subvariants and to develop strategies for combating the emergence of new viral threats, thereby improving preparedness for future pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid40333251,
year = {2025},
author = {Paczkowska, A and Hoffmann, K and Andrzejczak, A and Pucek, WF and Kopciuch, D and Bryl, W and Nowakowska, E and Kus, K},
title = {The Application of mRNA Technology for Vaccine Production-Current State of Knowledge.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333251},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Over the past 20 years, intensive research has been conducted on the development of therapeutic mRNA, leading to numerous discoveries that have enabled its use in therapy. The main achievements in this field include increasing mRNA stability, reducing its immunogenicity (i.e., its ability to trigger an immune response), and solving the challenge of delivering mRNA into cells-all to achieve a therapeutic effect. The aim of this study was to review the scientific literature on the use of mRNA technology in the production of vaccines. Various methods of applying mRNA technology that could potentially be introduced into clinical practice in the future are described. A detailed analysis was conducted on the approved COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer/BioNTech (New York, NY, USA) and Moderna (Kirkland, QC, Canada), as their introduction marked a groundbreaking moment in the advancement of mRNA technology. This study was based on the latest scientific literature from reputable publishers and medical databases such as PubMed and ClinicalTrials. In conclusion, mRNA technology is currently experiencing rapid development, significantly driven by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The application of this technology holds great potential not only for vaccines against infectious diseases but also for cancer treatment. However, further research is necessary to facilitate its broader clinical implementation.},
}

@article {pmid40333241,
year = {2025},
author = {Boikos, C and Schaible, K and Nunez-Gonzalez, S and Welch, V and Hu, T and Kyaw, MH and Choi, LE and Kamar, J and Goebe, H and McLaughlin, J},
title = {Co-Administration of BNT162b2 COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccines in Adults: A Global Systematic Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333241},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {N/A//This research was sponsored by Pfizer/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Co-administration of BNT162b2 with licensed seasonal influenza vaccines (SIVs) is recommended by health authorities. We provide a comprehensive summary of the data supporting this practice in adults.

METHODS: This systematic review consolidates available evidence on the prevalence, safety, immunogenicity, efficacy, and effectiveness of co-administering BNT162b2 and SIVs. Searches were conducted for English studies in adults ≥ 18 years of age between January 2021 and August 2024, with no geographic restriction. Study quality was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2.0 and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS: Twenty studies (15 observational and 5 clinical trials) were included, mainly conducted in seven countries in Europe and North America. Eight observational studies reported prevalence, twelve reported safety/reactogenicity, six reported immunogenicity, and three evaluated efficacy/effectiveness. Reported co-administration of BNT162b2 vaccines with SIVs increased over time. Of persons receiving BNT162b2, the proportion that reported co-administered SIVs increased from 2.7% in 2021 to 34.1% in 2023. Although variability in outcomes was observed, no consistent pattern indicating a negative impact on immunogenicity from same-day co-administration was identified. Effectiveness was not observed to change when BNT162B2 was co-administered with SIVs. The incidence of systemic and local adverse events was comparable between individuals receiving the vaccines separately and those receiving them co-administered.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings from this review indicate that the co-administration of BNT162B2 with SIVs is both safe and effective. This highlights the value of co-administration, which could enhance vaccine uptake by streamlining immunization protocols and reducing health visits.},
}

@article {pmid40333234,
year = {2025},
author = {Fatima, M and Hong, KJ},
title = {Innovations, Challenges, and Future Prospects for Combination Vaccines Against Human Infections.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333234},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {RS-2024-00331833//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; },
abstract = {Combination vaccines provide the versatile benefits of addressing different pathogens simultaneously using a combined formulation. This approach can be regarded as a substantial modernization in immunization. In this review, we highlight various advancements in combination vaccines based on mRNA, viral vectors, live attenuated, and recombinant vaccines. Recent success in clinical trials of mRNA platforms for combination vaccines has particularly accelerated research in this direction. The advantages of combination vaccines in terms of patient adherence, cost effectiveness, and streamlined immunization schedule are discussed. The existing challenges of antigenic interference, logistical hurdles, and the complications of regulatory standards are analyzed. Research trends to make combination vaccines viable for emerging infections have been summarized. The current work provides a critical overview, the existing opportunities, and the future prospects of combination vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40333208,
year = {2025},
author = {Mulleners, SJ and Juncker, HG and Zuiderveld, J and Ziesemer, KA and van Goudoever, JB and van Keulen, BJ},
title = {Safety and Efficacy of Vaccination During Lactation: A Comprehensive Review of Vaccines for Maternal and Infant Health Utilizing a Large Language Model Citation Screening System.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333208},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Newborns are born with an immature immune system, making them susceptible to infections early in life. Human milk provides essential nutrients and immunological factors that support infant immunity. Maternal vaccination during lactation has the potential to enhance these benefits by triggering an immune response in the mother, potentially extending protection to her child. However, lactating individuals are often excluded from vaccine trials, leading to uncertainties about vaccine safety and efficacy during the postpartum period. This study critically evaluates the effectiveness of vaccines in enhancing the immune-supporting properties of human milk and assesses their safety and efficacy for lactating mothers and their infants. By examining potential benefits alongside safety concerns, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of postpartum vaccination's impact on maternal and infant health. We utilized large-language models (LLMs) to enhance the review process and performed a structured literature search across Ovid/Medline, Embase, and Clarivate Analytics using terms like "breastfeeding", "postpartum", and "vaccination". A three-stage screening process involving human and LLM-assisted evaluation focused on postpartum vaccines and their implications for maternal and infant health. We identified 73 studies covering vaccines against COVID-19, cholera, influenza, pertussis, pneumococcal, rabies, polio, rotavirus, rubella, varicella, typhoid, smallpox, and yellow fever. Most vaccines, such as those for COVID-19 and influenza, appear safe and effective for postpartum use without requiring precautionary measures. However, caution is advised with vaccines such as the yellow fever vaccine, where temporary breastfeeding cessation is recommended. Overall, this review underscores the compatibility of most vaccines with lactation and suggests its benefits for both mother and infant.},
}

@article {pmid40333142,
year = {2025},
author = {Astroth, C and Shah, KS and Agrawal, S and Agrawal, A},
title = {Weathering the Storm: How Age and Biologics Influence the COVID-19 Cytokine Surge.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333142},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use ; *Cytokines/immunology ; *Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Age Factors ; Aged ; *Aging/immunology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, first identified in December 2019, caused a global pandemic, resulting in over 6.8 million deaths by March 2023. The elderly, or individuals over 65, accounted for the majority of COVID-19 deaths, with 81% of fatalities in the US in 2020 occurring in this group. Beyond mortality, aging populations are also at higher risk of long-term cardiovascular complications and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Although these outcomes may be influenced by comorbidities common in the elderly, age has been found to be a standalone risk factor for severe COVID-19 infection. Therefore, investigating age-related factors in COVID-19 outcomes is crucial in protecting this vulnerable group. Of particular interest is the cytokine storm phenomenon, an excessive inflammatory response that contributes to severe COVID-19 symptoms, including ARDS and cardiovascular damage. Elevated levels of multiple cytokines are common in severe cases of COVID-19. We propose that changes that occur to cytokine profiles as we age may contribute to these aberrant inflammatory responses. This review specifically explored the interleukin class cytokines IL-1, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-23 and considered the potential of biologics targeting these cytokines to alleviate severe outcomes in both COVID-19 and aging individuals.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Biological Products/therapeutic use
*Cytokines/immunology
*Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Age Factors
Aged
*Aging/immunology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40333091,
year = {2025},
author = {Jarneborn, A and Kopparapu, PK and Jin, T},
title = {The Dual-Edged Sword: Risks and Benefits of JAK Inhibitors in Infections.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40333091},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {ALFGBG-823941 and ALFGBG-933787 to T.J.; ALFGBG-770411 to A.J.//Swedish state under the agreement between the Swedish Government and the county councils, the ALF agreement/ ; 523-2013-2750 and 2019-01135 to T.J.//Swedish Medical Research Council/ ; 2023-419 to A.J, 2021-283 to PKK//Rune och Ulla Amlövs Stiftelse för Neurologisk och Reumatologisk Forskning/ ; SU-984331 and SU-998149 to A.J., SU-984446 to PKK.//Sahlgrenska University Hospitals Research Foundations/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Animals ; Piperidines/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Pyrimidines/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Purines/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/immunology ; Mice ; Azetidines/therapeutic use ; Pyrazoles ; Sulfonamides ; },
abstract = {Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) represent a relatively new class of immunomodulatory drugs with potent effects on various cytokine signalling pathways. They have revolutionized the treatment landscape for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. However, their ability to modulate immune responses presents a dual-edged nature, influencing both protective immunity and pathological inflammation. This review explores the complex role of JAKis in infectious settings, highlighting both beneficial and detrimental effects. On the one hand, experimental models suggest that JAK inhibition can impair host defence mechanisms, increasing susceptibility to certain bacterial and viral infections. For example, tofacitinib-treated mice exhibited more severe joint erosions in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) septic arthritis and showed impaired viral clearance in herpes simplex encephalitis. Additionally, clinical data confirm an increased risk of herpes zoster in patients receiving JAKis, underscoring the need for rigorous monitoring. On the other hand, JAK inhibition has demonstrated protective effects in certain infectious and hyperinflammatory conditions. In sepsis models, including cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and S. aureus bacteraemia, tofacitinib improved survival by attenuating excessive inflammation. Furthermore, JAKis, particularly baricitinib, have shown substantial efficacy in mitigating cytokine storms during severe COVID-19 infections, leading to improved clinical outcomes and reduced mortality. These observations suggest that JAKis have a role in modulating hyperinflammatory responses in select infectious contexts. In conclusion, JAKis present a complex interplay between immunosuppression and immunomodulation. While they increase the risk of certain infections, they also show potential in managing hyperinflammatory conditions such as cytokine storms. The key challenge is determining which patients and situations benefit most from JAKis while minimizing risks, requiring a careful and personalized treatment approach.},
}

Humans
*Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Animals
Piperidines/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Pyrimidines/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Purines/therapeutic use
COVID-19/immunology
Mice
Azetidines/therapeutic use
Pyrazoles
Sulfonamides

@article {pmid40332501,
year = {2025},
author = {Verbeeck Mendez, S and Do Orozco, IL and Gavilanez-Chavez, GE and Nava-Zavala, AH and Zavala-Cerna, MG},
title = {Challenges and Opportunities for Post-COVID Pulmonary Disease: A Focused Review of Immunomodulation.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40332501},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/immunology ; *Immunomodulation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Immunomodulating Agents/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy/immunology/etiology ; Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy/immunology ; },
abstract = {The resolution of the recent COVID-19 pandemic still requires attention, since the consequences of having suffered the infection, even in mild cases, are associated with several acute and chronic pathological conditions referred to as post-COVID syndrome (PCS). PCS often manifests with pulmonary disease and, in up to 9% of cases, a more serious complication known as post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis (PC19-PF), which has a similar clinical course as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Generating knowledge to provide robust evidence about the clinical benefits of different therapeutic strategies to treat the pulmonary effects of PCS can provide new insights to amplify therapeutic options for these patients. We present evidence found after a scoping review, following extended PRIMSA guidelines, for the use of immunomodulators in pulmonary PCS. We start with a brief description of the immunomodulatory properties of the relevant drugs, their clinically proven efficacy for viral infections and chronic inflammatory conditions, and their use during the COVID-19 pandemic. We emphasize the need for well-designed clinical trials to improve our understanding the physiopathology of pulmonary PCS and PC19-PF and also to determine the efficacy and safety of candidate treatments.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/immunology
*Immunomodulation
SARS-CoV-2
*Immunomodulating Agents/therapeutic use
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use
*Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy/immunology/etiology
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy/immunology

@article {pmid40330766,
year = {2025},
author = {Khoshsirat, S and Soleimanpour, H and Rezaei-Hachesu, P},
title = {Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) of Implementing Teleconsultation: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {8},
number = {5},
pages = {e70645},
pmid = {40330766},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the traditional models of providing services in health systems. One of the recommended ways to provide healthcare services in this era is teleconsultation. This study aimed to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOTs) of teleconsultation from the general practitioner's point of view and to implement it in the COVID-19 era.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted by searching online databases, including the PubMed, Scopus, and WOS databases, from the beginning to January 1, 2024, without restrictions and using relevant keywords. All studies that mentioned at least one of the areas of strength, weakness, opportunities, or threats related to teleconsultation were included in the study. We used content analysis to combine the results.

RESULTS: Ultimately, 32 studies were included in this review. The most important factors were determined in four domains. Strengths included ease of use of technology, reduction of time and cost, and facilitating documentation. Weaknesses included a lack of physical exams, less direct communication, and internet-related problems. The opportunities included the increasing progress of medical technologies worldwide, continuity of care, and people's interest in the daily use of new technologies. Threats included sociocultural barriers, the need for continuous training, and competing interests.

CONCLUSION: Examining internal and external factors is important for formulating a plan. Identifying these factors and using them can lead to the formulation of effective and efficient programs in the field of teleconsultation for general practitioners in the era of COVID-19. Without paying attention to these issues, adopting appropriate plans to minimize weaknesses and threats, and effectively using strengths and opportunities to implement telemedicine projects, there is a possibility of failure and waste of time, effort, and credit in the health sector.},
}

@article {pmid40330746,
year = {2025},
author = {Kovačić Petrović, Z and Peraica, T and Blažev, M and Barac Furtinger, V and Kozarić-Kovačić, D},
title = {Depression and Anxiety Among Dentists: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {8},
number = {5},
pages = {e70786},
pmid = {40330746},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Many studies investigated the prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety among dentists. This systematic review aimed to determine: (i) the prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety symptoms, (ii) the prevalence rates of depression and anxiety before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and (iii) gender difference in prevalence of depression and anxiety among dentists.

METHODS: Eligible articles on depression and anxiety in dentists were systematically searched for in PubMed and Scopus databases from September 2023 to October 2023 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis protocol. We assessed the methodological quality of the studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment checklist adapted for cross-sectional studies. Statistical heterogeneity across the studies was evaluated using Cochran's Q test and I [2] statistic. The prevalence rates of depression and anxiety were calculated using the random-effect model with the Restricted Maximum-Likelihood estimator. Of 3762 searched articles, 33 articles were analyzed.

RESULTS: The prevalence rates of depression and anxiety symptoms among dentists were 42% and 44%, respectively. The prevalence rates of mild, moderate, and severe or extremely severe depression were 20%, 18%, and 8%, respectively. For mild, moderate, and severe or extremely severe anxiety, the respective prevalence rates were 21%, 18%, and 11%. We did not find evidence to suggest differences in depression or anxiety prevalence rates between the periods before and during COVID-19. In comparison with men, women showed approximately 27% higher risk of experiencing depression and 24% higher risk of experiencing anxiety.

CONCLUSION: Equally high levels of depression and anxiety in dentists were found both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant percentage of moderate to severe depression and anxiety. Female dentists reported a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms than their male colleagues.},
}

@article {pmid40330066,
year = {2025},
author = {Doroud, D and Daneshi, M and Kazemi-Lomedash, F and Eftekhari, Z},
title = {Comprehensive review of preclinical evaluation strategies for COVID-19 vaccine candidates: assessing immunogenicity, toxicology, and safety profiles.},
journal = {Iranian journal of microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {1-18},
pmid = {40330066},
issn = {2008-3289},
abstract = {Following the worldwide spread of Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), there is a vital requirement for safe and effective vaccines against Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, several vaccine-candidate platforms have been designed, tested, and developed. Based on guidelines, preclinical studies are recommended to assess the safety and potency of COVID-19 vaccines in appropriate in vitro and in vivo settings. These studies provide essential information to describe the potential toxic properties of a vaccine and the formulation of vaccine agents during the preclinical trial phase. In toxicology studies, several factors must be considered, such as the appropriate animal species and strains, dosing timetable, mode of administration, time of sampling for biochemistry and antibody evaluation, and necropsy. Pharmacokinetic/ biodistribution studies are not usually required for infectious disease prophylaxis vaccines unless the vaccine contains a novel substance. Evaluating their biodistribution is crucial for newly developed vaccines, such as lipid nanoparticles -messenger RNA (LNP-mRNA), DNA, and Viral vectors in non-replicated (VVnr), or recombinant virus vaccines. The review highlights the importance of preclinical studies in assessing the safety and efficacy of vaccine candidates. This guidance is essential for researchers and manufacturers to design effective vaccines that can progress to clinical trials safely.},
}

@article {pmid40330025,
year = {2025},
author = {Smail, SW and Albarzinji, N and Salih, RH and Taha, KO and Hirmiz, SM and Ismael, HM and Noori, MF and Azeez, SS and Janson, C},
title = {Microbiome dysbiosis in SARS-CoV-2 infection: implication for pathophysiology and management strategies of COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1537456},
pmid = {40330025},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dysbiosis/microbiology/therapy ; *COVID-19/microbiology/physiopathology/therapy/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; },
abstract = {The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), in late 2019 initiated a global health crisis marked by widespread infection, significant mortality, and long-term health implications. While SARS-CoV-2 primarily targets the respiratory system, recent findings indicate that it also significantly disrupts the human microbiome, particularly the gut microbiota, contributing to disease severity, systemic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections and chronic conditions. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, exacerbates the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 and has been linked to long-COVID, a condition affecting a significant proportion of survivors and manifesting with over 200 symptoms across multiple organ systems. Despite the growing recognition of microbiome alterations in COVID-19, the precise mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the microbiome and influences disease progression remain poorly understood. This narrative review investigates the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on host-microbiota dynamics and evaluates its implications in disease severity and for developing personalized therapeutic strategies for COVID-19. Furthermore, it highlights the dual role of the microbiome in modulating disease progression, and as a promising target for advancing diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches in managing COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Dysbiosis/microbiology/therapy
*COVID-19/microbiology/physiopathology/therapy/complications
*SARS-CoV-2
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome

@article {pmid40328900,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, B and Farzan, M and Choe, H},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 spike protein: structure, viral entry and variants.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40328900},
issn = {1740-1534},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been a devastating global pandemic for 4 years and is now an endemic disease. With the emergence of new viral variants, COVID-19 is a continuing threat to public health despite the wide availability of vaccines. The virus-encoded trimeric spike protein (S protein) mediates SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells and also induces strong immune responses, making it an important target for development of therapeutics and vaccines. In this Review, we summarize our latest understanding of the structure and function of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein, the molecular mechanism of viral entry and the emergence of new variants, and we discuss their implications for development of S protein-related intervention strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40327249,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, JY and Jiang, RY and Wang, J and Wang, XJ},
title = {Advances in mRNA vaccine therapy for breast cancer research.},
journal = {Discover oncology},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {673},
pmid = {40327249},
issn = {2730-6011},
support = {TGD23H160004//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province, China/ ; },
abstract = {Breast cancer represents the most prevalent cancer among women globally, constituting approximately 30% of newly diagnosed female malignancies and serving as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality, accounting for 11.6% of deaths. Despite notable advancements in survival rates and quality of life for breast cancer patients over recent decades-achieved through interventions such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and endocrine therapy-there remains an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. This necessity arises from challenges associated with recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the development of Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines at an unprecedented pace, and as a novel form of precision immunotherapy, mRNA vaccines are increasingly being recognized for their potential in cancer treatment. mRNA vaccines efficiently produce antigens within the cytoplasm, specifically activating the immune system to target tumor cells while minimizing the risk of T-cell tolerance. Therefore, mRNA vaccines have emerged as a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy. This review systematically examines the principles, mechanisms, advantages, key targets, and recent progress in mRNA vaccine therapy for breast cancer. Furthermore, it discusses current challenges and suggests potential directions for future research.},
}

@article {pmid40327103,
year = {2025},
author = {Bereczki, D and Dénes, Á and Boneschi, FM and Akhvlediani, T and Cavallieri, F and Fanciulli, A and Filipović, SR and Guekht, A and Helbok, R and Hochmeister, S and von Oertzen, TJ and Özturk, S and Priori, A and Rakusa, M and Willekens, B and Moro, E and Sellner, J and , },
title = {Need for awareness and surveillance of long-term post-COVID neurodegenerative disorders. A position paper from the neuroCOVID-19 task force of the European Academy of Neurology.},
journal = {Journal of neurology},
volume = {272},
number = {6},
pages = {380},
pmid = {40327103},
issn = {1432-1459},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/epidemiology/etiology/pathology ; Europe/epidemiology ; Neurology/standards ; Advisory Committees ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neuropathological and clinical studies suggest that infection with SARS-CoV-2 may increase the long-term risk of neurodegeneration.

METHODS: We provide a narrative overview of pathological and clinical observations justifying the implementation of a surveillance program to monitor changes in the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders in the years after COVID-19.

RESULTS: Autopsy studies revealed diverse changes in the brain, including loss of vascular integrity, microthromboses, gliosis, demyelination, and neuronal- and glial injury and cell death, in both unvaccinated and vaccinated individuals irrespective of the severity of COVID-19. Recent data suggest that microglia play an important role in sustained COVID-19-related inflammation, which contributes to the etiology initiating a neurodegenerative cascade, to the worsening of pre-existing neurodegenerative disease or to the acceleration of neurodegenerative processes. Histopathological data have been supported by neuroimaging, and epidemiological studies also suggested a higher risk for neurodegenerative diseases after COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to the high prevalence of COVID-19 during the pandemic, healthcare systems should be aware of, and be prepared for a potential increase in the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases in the upcoming years. Strategies may include follow-up of well-described cohorts, analyses of outcomes in COVID-19-registries, nationwide surveillance programs using record-linkage of ICD-10 diagnoses, and comparing the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders in the post-pandemic periods to values of the pre-pandemic years. Awareness and active surveillance are particularly needed, because diverse clinical manifestations due to earlier SARS-CoV-2 infections may no longer be quoted as post-COVID-19 symptoms, and hence, increasing incidence of neurodegenerative pathologies at the community level may remain unnoticed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/epidemiology/etiology/pathology
Europe/epidemiology
Neurology/standards
Advisory Committees

@article {pmid40326310,
year = {2025},
author = {El-Naas, A and Hamad, O and Nair, S and Alfakhri, B and Mahmoud, S and Haji, A and Ahmed, L and Lebbe, A and Aboulwafa, A and Shaikh, F and Bouhali, I and Zakaria, D},
title = {New Onset of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Post-COVID-19 Infection: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Emerging microbes & infections},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2492211},
doi = {10.1080/22221751.2025.2492211},
pmid = {40326310},
issn = {2222-1751},
abstract = {AbstractCOVID-19 may primarily cause respiratory symptoms but can lead to long-term effects known as long COVID. COVID-19-induced diabetes mellitus was reported in many patients which shares characteristics of types 1 and 2 (T1DM and T2DM). This study aims to identify and analyze the reported cases of new onset diabetes post-COVID-19 infection. Several databases were used to conduct a comprehensive literature search to target studies reporting cases of T1DM or T2DM post-COVID-19 infection. Screening, data extraction, and cross checking were performed by two independent reviewers. Only 43 studies met our inclusion criteria. Our results revealed that the overall prevalence of new onset diabetes post-COVID-19 was 1.37% with higher prevalence for T2DM (0.84%) as compared to T1DM (0.017%) while the type of diabetes was not reported in 0.51% of the cases. Several risk factors for developing diabetes post-COVID-19 infection were identified including the type of SARS-CoV-2 variant, age, comorbidities and the vaccination status. The direct viral attack of the pancreatic beta cells as well as inflammation and the anti-inflammatory corticosteroids were proposed as possible mechanisms of the COVID-19 induced diabetes. A multidisciplinary approach involving endocrinologists, primary care physicians, and infectious disease specialists should be implemented in the management of post-COVID patients to address both the acute and long-term complications, including metabolic changes and risk of diabetes.},
}

@article {pmid40325547,
year = {2025},
author = {Srikumar, G and Finlayson, C and Bissett, I and Harmston, C},
title = {Remote Follow-Up After Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {ANZ journal of surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/ans.70141},
pmid = {40325547},
issn = {1445-2197},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Remote consultations are increasingly being utilized in colorectal cancer follow-up, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, with benefits continuing beyond the pandemic. It is not clear how remote modalities affect patient satisfaction, quality of life (QoL) and safety of colorectal cancer follow-up.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the impact of remote follow-up on patient satisfaction, QoL, clinician satisfaction, adherence to investigations, readmission rates, recurrence rates, and mortality rates for colorectal cancer.

METHODS: A systematic review was performed using three electronic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, along with grey literature. Eligible studies included remote techniques such as telephone, video, or patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) compared with standard face-to-face follow-up in patients who have undergone colorectal cancer resection. Two independent reviewers screened studies and assessed the risk of bias.

RESULTS: A total of 4417 records were identified with seven studies included. Six studies showed high levels of patient satisfaction in remote follow-up, with two studies showing significantly better satisfaction than standard follow-up. Two studies evaluated QoL, with one showing significantly better QoL in the remote follow-up group than the standard, and the other study showing comparable levels. Safety outcomes were minimally reported, but there were no adverse outcomes. There was at least moderate risk of bias in the four nonrandomized interventions due to confounding from patient selection into intervention groups.

CONCLUSIONS: Remote follow-up in colorectal cancer appears to be comparable to face-to-face follow-up with high levels of patient satisfaction and QoL. While adherence to follow-up investigations was not compromised, the evidence on oncological impact is limited, and further studies on mortality and recurrence rates are required to ensure overall safety.},
}

@article {pmid40324776,
year = {2025},
author = {Ma, C and Fang, Y and Zhang, H and Zheng, Y and Zhang, Y and Zhao, W and Yan, G and Zeng, Y and Zhang, Y and Ning, X and Jia, Z and Guo, N},
title = {Nurse-Delivered Telehealth in Home-Based Palliative Care: Integrative Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e73024},
doi = {10.2196/73024},
pmid = {40324776},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {*Telemedicine/organization & administration ; Humans ; *Palliative Care/methods ; *Home Care Services/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Nurse's Role ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Telehealth technologies can enhance patients' and their families' access to high-quality resources in home-based palliative care. Nurses are deeply involved in delivering telehealth in home-based palliative care. However, no previous integrative systematic reviews have synthesized evidence on nurses' roles, facilitators, and barriers to implementing nurse-delivered telehealth in home-based palliative care.

OBJECTIVE: This integrative systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the roles of nurses and the multilevel facilitators and barriers to implementing nurse-delivered telehealth in home-based palliative care, which could inform future policy development, research, and clinical practice.

METHODS: This integrative systematic review was conducted using Joanna Briggs Institute methodological guidance. We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. We systematically searched articles published from January 1, 2014, to May 2024 in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. We included English-language; peer-reviewed; original; and qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies that centered on nurse-delivered telehealth in home-based palliative care. We used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool to assess the quality of the included articles. Furthermore, 3 authors independently assessed eligibility, extracted data, and assessed the quality of articles. The entities to extract were identified by research questions of interest regardless of the type of study. We applied a convergent synthesis approach to integrate quantitative and qualitative data. Guided by the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) 2.0, we synthesized the facilitators and barriers to implementing nurse-delivered telehealth in home-based palliative care.

RESULTS: This integrative systematic review identified 4819 unique articles, including 34 papers encompassing 29 unique primary research studies. Innovations were mainly delivered by nurses (n=8) and nurse-involved multiprofessional teams (n=18). The roles of nurses in telehealth home-based palliative care involve palliative care nurses, community nurses, nurse coordinators, nurse coaches or nurse navigators, and nurse case managers. Guided by CFIR 2.0, facilitators and barriers to implementing nurse-delivered, telehealth, home-based palliative care were identified to 6 implementation levels and 20 constructs. The key facilitators included the COVID-19 pandemic, cost avoidance to the health care system, engagement of patients and their family caregivers, and so on. The barriers included a lack of reimbursement and payment mechanisms, technical problems, insufficiently trained health care providers, and so on.

CONCLUSIONS: This integrative systematic review synthesizes evidence on nurses' evolving roles in telehealth home-based palliative care and identifies multilevel facilitators and barriers to nurse-delivered, home-based palliative care implementation. With the empowerment of telehealth technologies, nurses could establish a stronger professional identity and develop leadership in home-based palliative care. Nurses should leverage influence to promote nursing practice, clinical management, and policy support in the implementation of telehealth home-based palliative care.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024541038; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024541038.},
}

*Telemedicine/organization & administration
Humans
*Palliative Care/methods
*Home Care Services/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology
Nurse's Role

@article {pmid40324661,
year = {2025},
author = {Raju, V and Reddy, R and Javan, AC and Hajihossainlou, B and Weissleder, R and Guiseppi-Elie, A and Kurabayashi, K and Jones, SA and Faghih, RT},
title = {Tracking inflammation status for improving patient prognosis: A review of current methods, unmet clinical needs and opportunities.},
journal = {Biotechnology advances},
volume = {82},
number = {},
pages = {108592},
doi = {10.1016/j.biotechadv.2025.108592},
pmid = {40324661},
issn = {1873-1899},
abstract = {Inflammation is the body's response to infection, trauma or injury and is activated in a coordinated fashion to ensure the restoration of tissue homeostasis and healthy physiology. This process requires communication between stromal cells resident to the tissue compartment and infiltrating immune cells which is dysregulated in disease. Clinical innovations in patient diagnosis and stratification include measures of inflammatory activation that support the assessment of patient prognosis and response to therapy. We propose that (i) the recent advances in fast, dynamic monitoring of inflammatory markers (e.g., cytokines) and (ii) data-dependent theoretical and computational modeling of inflammatory marker dynamics will enable the quantification of the inflammatory response, identification of optimal, disease-specific biomarkers and the design of personalized interventions to improve patient outcomes - multidisciplinary efforts in which biomedical engineers may potentially contribute. To illustrate these ideas, we describe the actions of cytokines, acute phase proteins and hormones in the inflammatory response and discuss their role in local wounds, COVID-19, cancer, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and aging, with a central focus on cardiac surgery. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities involved in tracking and modulating inflammation in clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid40324574,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, M and Gu, X and Yang, J and Zhang, C and Zhou, Y and Huang, P and Wang, X and Zhang, L and Jiang, L and Zhai, L and Yu, M and Cheng, G and Yang, L},
title = {Luteolin: A potential therapeutic agent for respiratory diseases.},
journal = {European journal of pharmacology},
volume = {999},
number = {},
pages = {177699},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejphar.2025.177699},
pmid = {40324574},
issn = {1879-0712},
abstract = {Acute lung injury, COVID-19, lung cancer, and asthma are a few of the respiratory conditions that are the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The increasing incidence and mortality rates have attracted significant attention to the prevention and treatment of these conditions. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in utilizing naturally derived compounds as therapeutic agents for respiratory diseases. Luteolin (Lut), a flavonoid compound, possesses an extensive range of pharmacological characteristics, encompassing anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antineoplastic, and antimicrobial activities. However, a comprehensive summary of Lut's therapeutic effects and mechanisms in respiratory diseases remains lacking. This review examines the physicochemical properties, toxicity, and avenues of Lut's action in respiratory ailments. Lut exerts therapeutic effects through pathways such as nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), janus kinase 1 (JAK1)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), and pyroptosis, modulating key processes such as the suppression of inflammatory mediators, attenuation of oxidative assault, and induction of apoptosis in lung cancer cells. This review strives to provide critical realizations into respiratory disease therapeutics and contribute to the foundation for drug development.},
}

@article {pmid40322881,
year = {2025},
author = {Vieira Junior, JCA and Sander, MRL and Matos, JAO and Medeiros, AM and Silva, FSD and Aires, CAM},
title = {Neurological Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 in Non-Hospitalized Patients: An Integrative Review.},
journal = {Biological research for nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10998004251335968},
doi = {10.1177/10998004251335968},
pmid = {40322881},
issn = {1552-4175},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the global population. The infection, caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents with a variety of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic cases to more severe forms, including a variety of neurological symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, brain fog, paresthesias, dysautonomia, anosmia, and dysgeusia. Additionally, the disease is associated with the long COVID syndrome, in which there is persistence of the effects and symptoms of the acute phase. In recent years the literature has shown relevant data on long COVID, but there is still a need to deepen the knowledge about these long term manifestations. Thus, the present study aimed to describe the main neurological sequelae resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection in non-hospitalized population during the long phase of the disease, gathering scientific evidence through an integrative review of the prevalence of symptoms, patient profile, duration and severity of sequelae, risk factors, comorbidities, and possible nervous system structural damage. The PubMed/Medline database was used with descriptors and, at the end of the screening process with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 22 studies were included. A group of neurological symptoms associated with long COVID was identified: myalgia, dysgeusia, memory alterations, olfactory dysfunction, dizziness, and pain. Most patients presented multiple symptoms that lasted for more than one year with a significant impact on quality of life. The main risk factors were dyslipidemia, age, ethnicity, muscle/ joint pain, and sex. This review highlights the importance of further studies on the syndrome, its etiology, diagnosis, follow-up, and treatments.},
}

@article {pmid40322752,
year = {2025},
author = {Stanicki, B and Criscione, JX and Shaari, AL and Thompson, K and Galdi, B},
title = {An Analysis of Fencing Injuries in the United States: A 10-Year Database Review.},
journal = {Orthopaedic journal of sports medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {23259671251334774},
pmid = {40322752},
issn = {2325-9671},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fencing has maintained sustained popularity in the United States and internationally. However, there is limited information regarding acute injury patterns among fencing athletes.

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence of fencing injuries evaluated at emergency departments in the United States from 2013 to 2023 and analyze trends in diagnosis by demographics, mechanism of action, and disposition status.

STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive epidemiological study.

METHODS: The US Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database was queried in June of 2024 using the product code 3260-Fencing (activity/apparel/equipment). The analysis included descriptive statistics for diagnosis prevalence and demographics, univariate analysis utilizing diagnosis and demographic data, and a text analysis of the narrative descriptions.

RESULTS: From 2013 to 2023, 129 fencing-related injuries were reported from US emergency departments, representing an NEISS national estimate of 3418 (95% CI, 2200-4636). The most common age group affected was 11 to 15 years (35.7%), followed by 16 to 20 years (29.5%), with a median age of 16 years. Most injured individuals were White (49.65%) and male (56.5%). However, there was an upward trend in injuries among female athletes throughout the study. The most frequent injuries were strains or sprains (26.4%), lacerations (15.5%), fractures (11.6%), and contusions/abrasions (10.9%). Fracture prevalence was higher in females than males (14.4% vs 9.6%; P1 = .04). Males experienced a higher laceration prevalence (21.9% vs 7.1%; P = .02). The most affected body part was the finger (14%), followed by the wrist (8.5%), leg (8.5%), and head (7.8%). Most injuries occurred in sports-specific facilities (70%), followed by personal homes. Regarding disposition, 97.7% of all patients were treated and released. Fencing injuries rose steadily until the COVID-19 pandemic caused a decline, but they have since rebounded.

CONCLUSION: Fencing injuries decreased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic but have since become more prevalent. Fractures were more prevalent among females, whereas males had a higher prevalence of lacerations. Understanding the epidemiology and nature of fencing injuries can help inform coaches, athletes, and health care providers about potential risks and injury prevention strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40322032,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, F and Pang, Z and Chen, Z and Hu, K and Luo, J and Huang, S and Qu, Q},
title = {Bibliometric Analysis of Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants (NOACS) in the Prevention of Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism.},
journal = {Drug design, development and therapy},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {3589-3610},
pmid = {40322032},
issn = {1177-8881},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Embolism/prevention & control ; *Anticoagulants/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Bibliometrics ; Administration, Oral ; *Venous Thrombosis/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of cardiovascular-related deaths. Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) offer effective therapy without injections or blood monitoring. This bibliometric analysis explores the research on NOACs for preventing VTE and pulmonary embolism.

METHODS: Literature up to July 20, 2024, was searched in Web of Science Core Collection. Citespace software was used for screening and analysis.

RESULTS: In this study, we analyzed 2124 articles and 767 reviews from 11,282 institutions across 528 countries and regions, encompassing 830 publications and 60 research directions. The USA led in publication count, followed by Germany and Canada. Cardiovascular System Cardiology, Hematology, and General Internal Medicine were the top research areas, while THROMBOSIS AND HAEMOSTASIS was the leading journal. From 2004 to 2024, we observed accelerated publication growth, particularly from 2008, highlighting the emergence of NOACs as a major research focus. Key contributors, including Bengt I. Eriksson, and major institutions like Harvard Medical School and University of Amsterdam, played pivotal roles in advancing anticoagulant research. Co-citation and keyword clustering analyses revealed research hotspots in NOACs, cancer-associated venous thromboembolism, stroke prevention, and COVID-19-related thrombotic events, reflecting a shift towards individualized anticoagulation therapy and the growing importance of NOACs in various clinical contexts.

CONCLUSION: The development of NOACs has progressed rapidly, with an increasing number of publications, indicating the lead research in the United States and other Western nations. Comparative studies on the safety and efficacy of NOACs have become a significant focus, shifting from traditional anticoagulants. Pharmacogenetics-guided use of NOACS shows new hope of precision medicine.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Embolism/prevention & control
*Anticoagulants/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Bibliometrics
Administration, Oral
*Venous Thrombosis/prevention & control

@article {pmid40321932,
year = {2025},
author = {Rehman, S and Ghazali, SR and Elklit, A},
title = {COVID-19 and Psychopathologies in Children-A Single Session Intervention Plan to Promote Mental Health during Crises Management: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Iranian journal of public health},
volume = {54},
number = {4},
pages = {688-700},
pmid = {40321932},
issn = {2251-6093},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The world has experienced numerous natural and man-made disasters throughout history. Due to these unforeseen circumstances, children and adolescents have reported significant psychopathologies in response to traumatic experiences. We aimed to investigate the surge of internalizing and externalizing psychopathologies during COVID-19 and to assess the efficacy of single-session therapies used to treat mental health issues during this period.

METHODS: Overall, 270 articles were retrieved across both phases of the study, with 250 articles identified in Phase I and 20 in Phase II. Following the PRISMA flowchart guidelines, approximately 30 studies were selected to meet the objective of Phase I, while 10 studies were chosen to address the objective of Phase II. The articles were retrieved from various databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Ovid, CENTRAL, JSTOR, NCBI, and Science Direct. Only articles published between 2019 and 2022 were included in the study.

RESULTS: The findings of first phase of study indicated a surge in internalizing psychopathologies (such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and somatic problems) and externalizing psychopathologies (including conduct/oppositional disorders, sleep disturbances, suicidal ideation, ADHD, and substance abuse) over the past four years. Additionally, according to the findings of the second phase of the study, single-session therapies were found to be effective in mitigating symptoms of depression and anxiety.

CONCLUSION: The study's findings are discussed in the context of counseling adolescents, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health issues in this demographic.},
}

@article {pmid40321796,
year = {2025},
author = {Walewangko, OC and Purnomo, JS and Jo, PA and Vidian, V and Jo, J},
title = {Prophylactic vaccination strategies for adult patients with diabetes: a narrative review of safety profiles and clinical effectiveness.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental vaccine research},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {101-115},
pmid = {40321796},
issn = {2287-3651},
abstract = {This narrative review analyzed roles of several prophylactic vaccinations in adult patients with diabetes, focusing on their safety profiles and clinical effectiveness. Individuals with diabetes mellitus are at increased risk for infections, making vaccination a critical component of their healthcare. The review assessed various vaccines that are particularly relevant for this population, i.e., vaccines for pneumococcus, meningococcus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, influenza, herpes zoster, human papillomavirus, and dengue. It highlighted the safety profiles and clinical effectiveness of these vaccines in preventing serious infections and improving long-term health outcomes in diabetic patients. Taken together, this review emphasized the importance of prophylactic vaccinations in reducing infection-related morbidity and mortality as well as encouraged fostering greater adoption and advocacy for immunization programs among diabetic adults.},
}