@article {pmid37817031,
year = {2024},
author = {Megha, KB and Reshma, S and Amir, S and Krishnan, MJA and Shimona, A and Alka, R and Mohanan, PV},
title = {Comprehensive Risk Assessment of Infection Induced by SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Molecular neurobiology},
volume = {61},
number = {12},
pages = {9851-9872},
pmid = {37817031},
issn = {1559-1182},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Assessment ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The pandemic COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which devastated the global economy and healthcare system. The infection caused an unforeseen rise in COVID-19 patients and increased the mortality rate globally. This study gives an overall idea about host-pathogen interaction, immune responses to COVID-19, recovery status of infection, targeted organs and complications associated, and comparison of post-infection immunity in convalescent subjects and non-infected individuals. The emergence of the variants and episodes of COVID-19 infections made the situation worsen. The timely introduction of vaccines and precautionary measures helped control the infection's severity. Later, the population that recovered from COVID-19 grew significantly. However, understanding the impact of healthcare issues resulting after infection is paramount for improving an individual's health status. It is now recognised that COVID-19 infection affects multiple organs and exhibits a broad range of clinical manifestations. So, post COVID-19 infection creates a high risk in individuals with already prevailing health complications. The identification of post-COVID-19-related health issues and their appropriate management is of greater importance to improving patient's quality of life. The persistence, sequelae and other medical complications that normally last from weeks to months after the recovery of the initial infection are involved with COVID-19. A multi-disciplinary approach is necessary for the development of preventive measures, techniques for rehabilitation and strategies for clinical management when it comes to long-term care.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2
Risk Assessment
Host-Pathogen Interactions
Pandemics

@article {pmid37828990,
year = {2023},
author = {Shafqat, A and Omer, MH and Albalkhi, I and Alabdul Razzak, G and Abdulkader, H and Abdul Rab, S and Sabbah, BN and Alkattan, K and Yaqinuddin, A},
title = {Neutrophil extracellular traps and long COVID.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1254310},
pmid = {37828990},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Extracellular Traps ; *COVID-19/metabolism ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/etiology/metabolism ; Inflammation/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Post-acute COVID-19 sequelae, commonly known as long COVID, encompasses a range of systemic symptoms experienced by a significant number of COVID-19 survivors. The underlying pathophysiology of long COVID has become a topic of intense research discussion. While chronic inflammation in long COVID has received considerable attention, the role of neutrophils, which are the most abundant of all immune cells and primary responders to inflammation, has been unfortunately overlooked, perhaps due to their short lifespan. In this review, we discuss the emerging role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the persistent inflammatory response observed in long COVID patients. We present early evidence linking the persistence of NETs to pulmonary fibrosis, cardiovascular abnormalities, and neurological dysfunction in long COVID. Several uncertainties require investigation in future studies. These include the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 brings about sustained neutrophil activation phenotypes after infection resolution; whether the heterogeneity of neutrophils seen in acute SARS-CoV-2 infection persists into the chronic phase; whether the presence of autoantibodies in long COVID can induce NETs and protect them from degradation; whether NETs exert differential, organ-specific effects; specifically which NET components contribute to organ-specific pathologies, such as pulmonary fibrosis; and whether senescent cells can drive NET formation through their pro-inflammatory secretome in long COVID. Answering these questions may pave the way for the development of clinically applicable strategies targeting NETs, providing relief for this emerging health crisis.},
}

Humans
*Extracellular Traps
*COVID-19/metabolism
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
*Pulmonary Fibrosis/etiology/metabolism
Inflammation/metabolism

@article {pmid37832998,
year = {2023},
author = {Voss, JG and Pinto, MD and Burton, CW},
title = {How do the Social Determinants of Health Impact the Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19: A Critical Review.},
journal = {The Nursing clinics of North America},
volume = {58},
number = {4},
pages = {541-568},
doi = {10.1016/j.cnur.2023.07.004},
pmid = {37832998},
issn = {1558-1357},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Retrospective Studies ; Social Determinants of Health ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {The review critically analyzes the social determinants of health (SDOH) variables in the current literature of patients with post-acute sequelae (PASC) of COVID-19 in the United States. Race, gender, and age were discussed as well as health outcomes, severity of illness, and phenotypes of long-COVID. Most research was retrospectively with samples that had access to health insurance, which did not capture populations with poor or no access to health care. More research is needed that directly addresses the impact on SDOH on PASC. The current literature is sparse and provides little actionable information.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Retrospective Studies
Social Determinants of Health
Disease Progression

@article {pmid37834270,
year = {2023},
author = {Moreno-Corona, NC and López-Ortega, O and Pérez-Martínez, CA and Martínez-Castillo, M and De Jesús-González, LA and León-Reyes, G and León-Juárez, M},
title = {Dynamics of the Microbiota and Its Relationship with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {24},
number = {19},
pages = {},
pmid = {37834270},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Dysbiosis/complications ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which can be asymptomatic or present with multiple organ dysfunction. Many infected individuals have chronic alterations associated with neuropsychiatric, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal symptoms, even several months after disease onset, developing long-COVID or post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). Microbiota dysbiosis contributes to the onset and progression of many viral diseases, including COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 manifestations, which could serve as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. This review aimed to discuss the most recent findings on gut microbiota dysbiosis and its relationship with the sequelae of PACS. Elucidating these mechanisms could help develop personalized and non-invasive clinical strategies to identify individuals at a higher risk of experiencing severe disease progression or complications associated with PACS. Moreover, the review highlights the importance of targeting the gut microbiota composition to avoid dysbiosis and to develop possible prophylactic and therapeutic measures against COVID-19 and PACS in future studies.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Dysbiosis/complications
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
*Microbiota

@article {pmid37834324,
year = {2023},
author = {Georgieva, E and Ananiev, J and Yovchev, Y and Arabadzhiev, G and Abrashev, H and Abrasheva, D and Atanasov, V and Kostandieva, R and Mitev, M and Petkova-Parlapanska, K and Karamalakova, Y and Koleva-Korkelia, I and Tsoneva, V and Nikolova, G},
title = {COVID-19 Complications: Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Mitochondrial and Endothelial Dysfunction.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {24},
number = {19},
pages = {},
pmid = {37834324},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {Project № BG-RRP-2.004-0006-C02//Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science (MES) in the frames of Bulgarian National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Component "Innovative Bulgaria" the Project № BG-RRP-2.004-0006-C02 "Development of research and innovation at Trakia University in service/ ; Young Scientists and Postdoctoral Students-2//Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science under the National Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Inflammation ; Oxidative Stress ; Free Radicals ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection, discovered and isolated in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, causes acute atypical respiratory symptoms and has led to profound changes in our lives. COVID-19 is characterized by a wide range of complications, which include pulmonary embolism, thromboembolism and arterial clot formation, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, multiorgan failure, and more. The disease has caused a worldwide pandemic, and despite various measures such as social distancing, various preventive strategies, and therapeutic approaches, and the creation of vaccines, the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) still hides many mysteries for the scientific community. Oxidative stress has been suggested to play an essential role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, and determining free radical levels in patients with coronavirus infection may provide an insight into disease severity. The generation of abnormal levels of oxidants under a COVID-19-induced cytokine storm causes the irreversible oxidation of a wide range of macromolecules and subsequent damage to cells, tissues, and organs. Clinical studies have shown that oxidative stress initiates endothelial damage, which increases the risk of complications in COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 or long-COVID-19 cases. This review describes the role of oxidative stress and free radicals in the mediation of COVID-19-induced mitochondrial and endothelial dysfunction.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Inflammation
Oxidative Stress
Free Radicals

@article {pmid37835106,
year = {2023},
author = {Ambalavanan, R and Snead, RS and Marczika, J and Kozinsky, K and Aman, E},
title = {Advancing the Management of Long COVID by Integrating into Health Informatics Domain: Current and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {20},
number = {19},
pages = {},
pmid = {37835106},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Artificial Intelligence ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Medical Informatics ; },
abstract = {The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected millions of lives globally, with some individuals experiencing persistent symptoms even after recovering. Understanding and managing the long-term sequelae of COVID-19 is crucial for research, prevention, and control. To effectively monitor the health of those affected, maintaining up-to-date health records is essential, and digital health informatics apps for surveillance play a pivotal role. In this review, we overview the existing literature on identifying and characterizing long COVID manifestations through hierarchical classification based on Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO). We outline the aspects of the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) and Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) initiative in artificial intelligence (AI) to identify long COVID. Through knowledge exploration, we present a concept map of clinical pathways for long COVID, which offers insights into the data required and explores innovative frameworks for health informatics apps for tackling the long-term effects of COVID-19. This study achieves two main objectives by comprehensively reviewing long COVID identification and characterization techniques, making it the first paper to explore incorporating long COVID as a variable risk factor within a digital health informatics application. By achieving these objectives, it provides valuable insights on long COVID's challenges and impact on public health.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Artificial Intelligence
Pandemics/prevention & control
*Medical Informatics

@article {pmid37838675,
year = {2023},
author = {Sanal-Hayes, NEM and Mclaughlin, M and Hayes, LD and Mair, JL and Ormerod, J and Carless, D and Hilliard, N and Meach, R and Ingram, J and Sculthorpe, NF},
title = {A scoping review of 'Pacing' for management of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): lessons learned for the long COVID pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {720},
pmid = {37838675},
issn = {1479-5876},
support = {COV/LTE/20/08/DH_/Department of Health/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis ; Pandemics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; Exercise Therapy/methods ; Observational Studies as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Controversy over treatment for people with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a barrier to appropriate treatment. Energy management or pacing is a prominent coping strategy for people with ME/CFS. Whilst a definitive definition of pacing is not unanimous within the literature or healthcare providers, it typically comprises regulating activity to avoid post exertional malaise (PEM), the worsening of symptoms after an activity. Until now, characteristics of pacing, and the effects on patients' symptoms had not been systematically reviewed. This is problematic as the most common approach to pacing, pacing prescription, and the pooled efficacy of pacing was unknown. Collating evidence may help advise those suffering with similar symptoms, including long COVID, as practitioners would be better informed on methodological approaches to adopt, pacing implementation, and expected outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: In this scoping review of the literature, we aggregated type of, and outcomes of, pacing in people with ME/CFS.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Original investigations concerning pacing were considered in participants with ME/CFS.

SOURCES OF EVIDENCE: Six electronic databases (PubMed, Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials [CENTRAL]) were searched; and websites MEPedia, Action for ME, and ME Action were also searched for grey literature, to fully capture patient surveys not published in academic journals.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted. Review selection and characterisation was performed by two independent reviewers using pretested forms.

RESULTS: Authors reviewed 177 titles and abstracts, resulting in 17 included studies: three randomised control trials (RCTs); one uncontrolled trial; one interventional case series; one retrospective observational study; two prospective observational studies; four cross-sectional observational studies; and five cross-sectional analytical studies. Studies included variable designs, durations, and outcome measures. In terms of pacing administration, studies used educational sessions and diaries for activity monitoring. Eleven studies reported benefits of pacing, four studies reported no effect, and two studies reported a detrimental effect in comparison to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS: Highly variable study designs and outcome measures, allied to poor to fair methodological quality resulted in heterogenous findings and highlights the requirement for more research examining pacing. Looking to the long COVID pandemic, our results suggest future studies should be RCTs utilising objectively quantified digitised pacing, over a longer duration of examination (i.e. longitudinal studies), using the core outcome set for patient reported outcome measures. Until these are completed, the literature base is insufficient to inform treatment practises for people with ME/CFS and long COVID.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis
Pandemics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
Exercise Therapy/methods
Observational Studies as Topic

@article {pmid37841213,
year = {2023},
author = {Yang, J and Lim, KH and Lim, KT and Woods, JT and Mohabbat, AB and Wahner-Roedler, DL and Ganesh, R and Bauer, BA},
title = {Complementary and alternative medicine for long COVID: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Therapeutic advances in chronic disease},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {20406223231204727},
pmid = {37841213},
issn = {2040-6223},
support = {R21 AT001218/AT/NCCIH NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) interventions are growing in popularity as possible treatments for long COVID symptoms. However, comprehensive analysis of current evidence in this setting is still lacking.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to review existing published studies on the use of CAM interventions for patients experiencing long COVID through a systematic review.

DESIGN: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed in multiple databases and clinical trial registries from September 2019 to January 2023. RCTs evaluating efficacy and safety of CAM for long COVID were included. Methodological quality of each included trial was appraised with the Cochrane 'risk of bias' tool. A qualitative analysis was conducted due to heterogeneity of included studies.

RESULTS: A total of 14 RCTs with 1195 participants were included in this review. Study findings demonstrated that CAM interventions could benefit patients with long COVID, especially those suffering from neuropsychiatric disorders, olfactory dysfunction, cognitive impairment, fatigue, breathlessness, and mild-to-moderate lung fibrosis. The main interventions reported were self-administered transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation, neuro-meditation, dietary supplements, olfactory training, aromatherapy, inspiratory muscle training, concurrent training, and an online breathing and well-being program.

CONCLUSION: CAM interventions may be effective, safe, and acceptable to patients with symptoms of long COVID. However, the findings from this systematic review should be interpreted with caution due to various methodological limitations. More rigorous trials focused on CAM for long COVID are warranted in the future.},
}

@article {pmid37842301,
year = {2023},
author = {Meng, QT and Song, WQ and Churilov, LP and Zhang, FM and Wang, YF},
title = {Psychophysical therapy and underlying neuroendocrine mechanisms for the rehabilitation of long COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1120475},
pmid = {37842301},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Neurosecretory Systems ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {With the global epidemic and prevention of the COVID-19, long COVID-19 sequelae and its comprehensive prevention have attracted widespread attention. Long COVID-19 sequelae refer to that three months after acute COVID-19, the test of SARS-CoV-2 is negative, but some symptoms still exist, such as cough, prolonged dyspnea and fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations and insomnia. Its pathological mechanism is related to direct viral damage, immunopathological response, endocrine and metabolism disorders. Although there are more effective methods for treating COVID-19, the treatment options available for patients with long COVID-19 remain quite limited. Psychophysical therapies, such as exercise, oxygen therapy, photobiomodulation, and meditation, have been attempted as treatment modalities for long COVID-19, which have the potential to promote recovery through immune regulation, antioxidant effects, and neuroendocrine regulation. Neuroendocrine regulation plays a significant role in repairing damage after viral infection, regulating immune homeostasis, and improving metabolic activity in patients with long COVID-19. This review uses oxytocin as an example to examine the neuroendocrine mechanisms involved in the psychophysical therapies of long COVID-19 syndrome and proposes a psychophysical strategy for the treatment of long COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Neurosecretory Systems
Disease Progression

@article {pmid37844017,
year = {2023},
author = {Martino, L and Morello, R and De Rose, C and Buonsenso, D},
title = {Persistent respiratory symptoms associated with post-Covid condition (Long Covid) in children: a systematic review and analysis of current gaps and future perspectives.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {17},
number = {10},
pages = {837-852},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2023.2271836},
pmid = {37844017},
issn = {1747-6356},
mesh = {Child ; Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There is increasing evidence that also children can develop Long Covid. However, there are no specific reviews providing a clear description of reported respiratory symptoms and potential diagnostics.

AREAS COVERED: We performed on PubMed a systematic search of studies conducted on children aged less than 18 years with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection complaining about persistent respiratory symptoms; the aim of our review is to characterize the incidence, pattern and duration of respiratory symptoms after the acute infection in pediatric population.

EXPERT OPINION: Children can develop persisting respiratory symptoms, as documented by several follow-up studies both including or not control groups of non-infected children. However, the methodological variabilities of the analyzed studies does not allow to provide firm conclusions about the rate, type and best diagnostics for children with persistent respiratory symptoms. Future studies should investigate on larger pediatric cohorts the role of noninvasive diagnostics and new biomarkers as well as investigating therapeutic options both during acute infection or when Long Covid has been diagnosed.},
}

Child
Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37844358,
year = {2023},
author = {Yang, L and Wu, Y and Jin, W and Mo, N and Ye, G and Su, Z and Tang, L and Wang, Y and Li, Y and Du, J},
title = {The potential role of ferroptosis in COVID-19-related cardiovascular injury.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {168},
number = {},
pages = {115637},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115637},
pmid = {37844358},
issn = {1950-6007},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Ferroptosis/physiology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; Iron/metabolism ; *Reperfusion Injury ; },
abstract = {COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged as a global health threat in 2019. An important feature of the disease is that multiorgan symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection persist after recovery. Evidence indicates that people who recovered from COVID-19, even those under the age of 65 years without cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, had a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease for up to one year after diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 for potential cardiovascular damage that may manifest at a later stage. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of non-apoptotic cell death characterized by the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased lipid peroxide levels. Several studies have demonstrated that ferroptosis plays an important role in cancer, ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/RI), and other cardiovascular diseases. Altered iron metabolism, upregulation of reactive oxygen species, and glutathione peroxidase 4 inactivation are striking features of COVID-19-related cardiovascular injury. SARS-CoV-2 can cause cardiovascular ferroptosis, leading to cardiovascular damage. Understanding the mechanism of ferroptosis in COVID-19-related cardiovascular injuries will contribute to the development of treatment regimens for preventing or reducing COVID-19-related cardiovascular complications. In this article, we go over the pathophysiological underpinnings of SARS-CoV-2-induced acute and chronic cardiovascular injury, the function of ferroptosis, and prospective treatment approaches.},
}

Humans
Aged
*Ferroptosis/physiology
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
*COVID-19/complications
*Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology
SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
Iron/metabolism
*Reperfusion Injury

@article {pmid37852458,
year = {2024},
author = {Houweling, L and Maitland-Van der Zee, AH and Holtjer, JCS and Bazdar, S and Vermeulen, RCH and Downward, GS and Bloemsma, LD},
title = {The effect of the urban exposome on COVID-19 health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {240},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {117351},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2023.117351},
pmid = {37852458},
issn = {1096-0953},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Exposome ; Pandemics ; *Air Pollutants/toxicity ; *Environmental Pollutants ; Particulate Matter/toxicity ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global severity of SARS-CoV-2 illness has been associated with various urban characteristics, including exposure to ambient air pollutants. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthesize findings from ecological and non-ecological studies to investigate the impact of multiple urban-related features on a variety of COVID-19 health outcomes.

METHODS: On December 5, 2022, PubMed was searched to identify all types of observational studies that examined one or more urban exposome characteristics in relation to various COVID-19 health outcomes such as infection severity, the need for hospitalization, ICU admission, COVID pneumonia, and mortality.

RESULTS: A total of 38 non-ecological and 241 ecological studies were included in this review. Non-ecological studies highlighted the significant effects of population density, urbanization, and exposure to ambient air pollutants, particularly PM2.5. The meta-analyses revealed that a 1 μg/m[3] increase in PM2.5 was associated with a higher likelihood of COVID-19 hospitalization (pooled OR 1.08 (95% CI:1.02-1.14)) and death (pooled OR 1.06 (95% CI:1.03-1.09)). Ecological studies, in addition to confirming the findings of non-ecological studies, also indicated that higher exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as lower ambient temperature, humidity, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and less green and blue space exposure, were associated with increased COVID-19 morbidity and mortality.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review has identified several key vulnerability features related to urban areas in the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the importance of improving policies related to urban exposures and implementing measures to protect individuals from these harmful environmental stressors.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Exposome
Pandemics
*Air Pollutants/toxicity
*Environmental Pollutants
Particulate Matter/toxicity

@article {pmid37858583,
year = {2023},
author = {Müller, SA and Isaaka, L and Mumm, R and Scheidt-Nave, C and Heldt, K and Schuster, A and Abdulaziz, M and El Bcheraoui, C and Hanefeld, J and Agweyu, A},
title = {Prevalence and risk factors for long COVID and post-COVID-19 condition in Africa: a systematic review.},
journal = {The Lancet. Global health},
volume = {11},
number = {11},
pages = {e1713-e1724},
doi = {10.1016/S2214-109X(23)00384-4},
pmid = {37858583},
issn = {2214-109X},
mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Female ; Infant, Newborn ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; Ghana ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: An improved estimation of the clinical sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection is crucial in African countries, where the subject has received little attention despite more than 12 million reported cases and evidence that many more people were infected. We reviewed the evidence on prevalence, associated risk factors for long COVID, and systemic or sociocultural determinants of reporting long COVID.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review, searching PubMed, the Living OVerview of Evidence platform, and grey literature sources for publications from Dec 1, 2019, to Nov 23, 2022. We included articles published in English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese that reported on any study type in Africa with participants of any age who had symptoms for 4 weeks or more after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. We excluded secondary research, comments, and correspondence. Screening and data extraction were performed by two reviewers. Summary estimates were extracted, including sociodemographic factors, medical history, prevalence of persistent symptoms, and symptoms and associated factors. Results were analysed descriptively. The study was registered on the Open Science Framework platform.

FINDINGS: Our search yielded 294 articles, of which 24 peer-reviewed manuscripts were included, reporting on 9712 patients from eight African countries. Only one study exclusively recruited children, and one other study included children as part of their study population. Studies indicated moderate to low risk of bias. Prevalence of long COVID varied widely, from 2% in Ghana to 86% in Egypt. Long COVID was positively associated with female sex, older age, non-Black ethnicity, low level of education, and the severity of acute infection and underlying comorbidity. HIV and tuberculosis were not identified as risk factors. Factors influencing reporting included absence of awareness, inadequate clinical data and diagnostics, and little access to health-care services.

INTERPRETATION: In Africa, research on long COVID is scarce, particularly among children, who represent the majority of the population. However, existing studies show a substantial prevalence across settings, emphasising the importance of vaccination and other prevention strategies to avert the effects of long COVID on individual wellbeing, the increased strain on health systems, and the potential negative effects on economically vulnerable populations. At a global level, including African countries, tools for research on long COVID need to be harmonised to maximise the usefulness of the data collected.

FUNDING: None.},
}

Child
Humans
Female
Infant, Newborn
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Prevalence
Risk Factors
Ghana

@article {pmid37859501,
year = {2023},
author = {Molero, P and Reina, G and Blom, JD and Martínez-González, MÁ and Reinken, A and de Kloet, ER and Molendijk, ML},
title = {COVID-19 risk, course and outcome in people with mental disorders: a systematic review and meta-analyses.},
journal = {Epidemiology and psychiatric sciences},
volume = {32},
number = {},
pages = {e61},
pmid = {37859501},
issn = {2045-7979},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Prospective Studies ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Bayes Theorem ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {AIMS: It has been suggested that people with mental disorders have an elevated risk to acquire severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and to be disproportionally affected by coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) once infected. We aimed to analyse the COVID-19 infection rate, course and outcome, including mortality and long COVID, in people with anxiety, depressive, neurodevelopmental, schizophrenia spectrum and substance use disorders relative to control subjects without these disorders.

METHODS: This study constitutes a preregistered systematic review and random-effects frequentist and Bayesian meta-analyses. Major databases were searched up until 27 June 2023.

RESULTS: Eighty-one original articles were included reporting 304 cross-sectional and prospective effect size estimates (median n per effect-size = 114837) regarding associations of interest. Infection risk was not significantly increased for any mental disorder that we investigated relative to samples of people without these disorders. The course of COVID-19, however, is relatively severe, and long COVID and COVID-19-related hospitalization are more likely in all patient samples that we investigated. The odds of dying from COVID-19 were high in people with most types of mental disorders, except for those with anxiety and neurodevelopmental disorders relative to non-patient samples (pooled ORs range, 1.26-2.57). Bayesian analyses confirmed the findings from the frequentist approach and complemented them with estimates of the strength of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Once infected, people with pre-existing mental disorders are at an elevated risk for a severe COVID-19 course and outcome, including long COVID and mortality, relative to people without pre-existing mental disorders, despite an infection risk not significantly increased.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Prospective Studies
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Bayes Theorem
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology

@article {pmid37864020,
year = {2024},
author = {Luchting, B and Behrends, U and Eigner, B and Stojanov, S and Warlitz, C and Haegele, M and Neuwirth, E and Mihatsch, L and Richter, HP},
title = {[Interdisciplinary multimodal pain therapy in postviral syndromes and ME/CFS : Features, pitfalls and model concept].},
journal = {Schmerz (Berlin, Germany)},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {183-189},
pmid = {37864020},
issn = {1432-2129},
mesh = {Humans ; Combined Modality Therapy ; *Intersectoral Collaboration ; *Interdisciplinary Communication ; *Pain Management/methods ; Patient Care Team ; Postpoliomyelitis Syndrome/therapy ; Psychotherapy, Group ; Cooperative Behavior ; Conversion Disorder/therapy/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Multimodal pain therapy usually take place in the context of group therapy lasting several weeks and is based on a generally activating approach. Due to the specificity of stress intolerance with postexertional malaise (PEM) in patients with postviral syndromes, physical as well as psychological overload must be urgently avoided in these cases; however, these aspects can only be insufficiently considered in current medical pain therapy concepts.

METHODS: Summary of the current literature and presentation of clinical characteristics as well as presentation of a model project for a multimodal pain therapy in postviral syndromes with PEM.

MODEL CONCEPT: The presented model project describes a day clinic treatment setting for interdisciplinary multimodal pain therapy adapted to the individual resilience with minimization of the risk of strain-induced deterioration of the condition.},
}

Humans
Combined Modality Therapy
*Intersectoral Collaboration
*Interdisciplinary Communication
*Pain Management/methods
Patient Care Team
Postpoliomyelitis Syndrome/therapy
Psychotherapy, Group
Cooperative Behavior
Conversion Disorder/therapy/psychology

@article {pmid37865841,
year = {2023},
author = {Aiyegbusi, OL},
title = {COVID-19 related headaches: epidemiology, pathophysiology, impacts, and management.},
journal = {Current opinion in neurology},
volume = {36},
number = {6},
pages = {609-614},
doi = {10.1097/WCO.0000000000001219},
pmid = {37865841},
issn = {1473-6551},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Headache/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This is an expert overview of the recent literature on the nature, epidemiology, pathophysiology, impact, and management of COVID-19 related headache, in the acute phase of infection and in post-COVID-19 syndrome.

RECENT FINDINGS: Headache is one of the commonest symptoms of COVID-19 during acute infection and it is often experienced by individuals who go on to develop long COVID. There is a higher prevalence of headache in individuals with long COVID who contracted the Delta variant than in those who were infected with the Wuhan or Alpha variants. Headaches related to COVID-19 infection are commoner and may be more intense in women.There are indications that presence of headache might indicate a more benign COVID-19 infection and a better chance of survival. However, the impact of COVID-19 related headache could be substantial leading to poor quality of life in individuals affected. Headache that changes in its nature in terms of frequency and severity should be investigated to exclude cerebrovascular complications. There are promising new therapies for its treatment, but further research is needed.

SUMMARY: The findings of this review can promote a better understanding of COVID-19 related headache and guide clinicians in the management of patients.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2
Headache/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis

@article {pmid37866679,
year = {2024},
author = {Luo, D and Mei, B and Wang, P and Li, X and Chen, X and Wei, G and Kuang, F and Li, B and Su, S},
title = {Prevalence and risk factors for persistent symptoms after COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {30},
number = {3},
pages = {328-335},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2023.10.016},
pmid = {37866679},
issn = {1469-0691},
mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Anxiety/epidemiology/etiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Depression/epidemiology/etiology ; Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/complications/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology/etiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long-term physical and mental persistent symptoms after COVID-19 represent a growing global public health concern. However, there remains a substantial knowledge gap regarding their prevalence and risk factors.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence and risk factors for persistent symptoms after COVID-19.

METHODS OF DATA SYNTHESIS: We used a random-effects model to pool persistent symptom prevalence and risk ratios comparing COVID-19 patients with non-COVID-19 individuals.

DATA SOURCES: Electronic databases were searched for studies published from December 2019 to January 2023.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Eligible studies that reported the prevalence and risk factors for persistent symptoms after COVID-19 were included.

PARTICIPANTS: Patients who recovered from COVID-19.

ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF BIAS: The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool was used to assess the risk of bias in prevalence studies, whereas the risk of bias in cohort studies was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS: After screening 4359 studies, a total of 211 eligible studies were included, covering a population of 13 368 074 individuals. Fatigue, dyspnoea, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression were the most frequently reported persistent symptoms after COVID-19. Subgroup analyses revealed that individuals with more severe illness in the acute phase or from Europe exhibited a higher prevalence of certain symptoms, whereas children demonstrated a lower prevalence. Furthermore, COVID-19 patients had a significantly higher prevalence of most persistent symptoms compared with non-COVID-19 individuals. Factors frequently associated with a higher prevalence of persistent symptoms included female gender, advanced age, severe illness during the acute phase of COVID-19, multiple comorbidities, an extended duration of hospital stay, and a high body mass index.

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis provides a thorough review of the prevalence and risk factors for persistent symptoms following COVID-19. The findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring and support for individuals recovering from COVID-19.},
}

Female
Humans
Male
Anxiety/epidemiology/etiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Depression/epidemiology/etiology
Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/complications/epidemiology
Prevalence
Risk Factors
SARS-CoV-2
Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology/etiology

@article {pmid37868668,
year = {2023},
author = {Shah, B and Ahmad, MN and Khalid, M and Minhas, A and Ali, R and Sarfraz, Z and Sarfraz, A},
title = {Long COVID and Wavering Incidence of Pulmonary Embolism: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of community hospital internal medicine perspectives},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {23-31},
pmid = {37868668},
issn = {2000-9666},
abstract = {Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious medical condition that can occur as a result of venous thromboembolism (VTE). COVID-19, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), can potentially lead to PE due to the formation of blood clots in the lungs. This study aims to collate and report trends of PE in patients with long COVID (4-12 weeks since infection) and post-COVID-19 syndrome (>12 weeks since infection). The study adhered to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, and a systematic search was conducted in four databases. In total, nine observational studies were included with a total patient count of 45,825,187. The incidence of PE with long COVID/post-COVID-19 syndrome was seen among 31,885 individuals out of 44,967,887 participants. The incidence rate of PE was observed as 0.07%, given that the studies included matched controls. While we cannot state with certainty that COVID-19 infection in itself leads to higher risks of PE at a later time, this study emphasizes the need for optimized care and longitudinal studies during the COVID-19 era to account for deviations from the norm.},
}

@article {pmid37880142,
year = {2023},
author = {Zhang, Y and Li, Y},
title = {Clinical Translation of Aptamers for COVID-19.},
journal = {Journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {66},
number = {24},
pages = {16568-16578},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01607},
pmid = {37880142},
issn = {1520-4804},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Oligonucleotides ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 etiologic agent, SARS-CoV-2, continues to be one of the leading causes of death on a global scale. Although efficient methods for diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 have been developed, new methods of battling SARS-CoV-2 variants and long COVID are still urgently needed. A number of aptamers have demonstrated tremendous potential to be developed into diagnostic and therapeutic agents for COVID-19. The translation of the aptamers for clinical uses, however, has been extremely slow. Overcoming the difficulties faced by aptamers would advance this technology toward clinical use for COVID-19 and other serious disorders.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Oligonucleotides

@article {pmid37890221,
year = {2023},
author = {Moyo, E and Chimene, M and Moyo, P and Musuka, G and Mangoya, D and Murewanhema, G and Dzinamarira, T},
title = {Risk factors and clinical presentations of long COVID in Africa: A scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of infection and public health},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {1982-1988},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2023.09.021},
pmid = {37890221},
issn = {1876-035X},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Retrospective Studies ; Case-Control Studies ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Prospective Studies ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {COVID-19-related complications can last for years, even in patients who are asymptomatic during the acute phase, a phenomenon referred to as long COVID. This scoping review aimed to summarize the risk factors and clinical symptoms of long COVID in Africa between 2020 and 2022. Five studies were included. Three of the studies used in this review were retrospective cross-sectional studies, one was a prospective cohort study while another one was a case-control study. The review identified several risk factors for long COVID, including being female, being older than 40 years, having more than four acute COVID-19 symptoms, and having concomitant conditions such as asthma, hypertension, and depression. General, respiratory, cardiovascular, otolaryngological, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms were among the reported long COVID symptoms. To ensure that patients with long COVID are diagnosed and treated early, the risk factors and clinical symptoms of long COVID need to be identified for different population groups.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Retrospective Studies
Case-Control Studies
Cross-Sectional Studies
Prospective Studies
Risk Factors

@article {pmid37894116,
year = {2023},
author = {Tziolos, NR and Ioannou, P and Baliou, S and Kofteridis, DP},
title = {Long COVID-19 Pathophysiology: What Do We Know So Far?.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {11},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {37894116},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Long COVID-19 is a recognized entity that affects millions of people worldwide. Its broad clinical symptoms include thrombotic events, brain fog, myocarditis, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle pains, and others. Due to the binding of the virus with ACE-2 receptors, expressed in many organs, it can potentially affect any system; however, it most often affects the cardiovascular, central nervous, respiratory, and immune systems. Age, high body mass index, female sex, previous hospitalization, and smoking are some of its risk factors. Despite great efforts to define its pathophysiology, gaps remain to be explained. The main mechanisms described in the literature involve viral persistence, hypercoagulopathy, immune dysregulation, autoimmunity, hyperinflammation, or a combination of these. The exact mechanisms may differ from system to system, but some share the same pathways. This review aims to describe the most prevalent pathophysiological pathways explaining this syndrome.},
}

@article {pmid37897034,
year = {2023},
author = {Koleničová, V and Vňuková, MS and Anders, M and Fišerová, M and Raboch, J and Ptáček, R},
title = {A Review Article on Exercise Intolerance in Long COVID: Unmasking the Causes and Optimizing Treatment Strategies.},
journal = {Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research},
volume = {29},
number = {},
pages = {e941079},
pmid = {37897034},
issn = {1643-3750},
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Cognitive Training ; Fatigue/etiology/therapy ; },
abstract = {There is a growing body of research on SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), previously known as the post-COVID syndrome, a chronic condition characterized by symptoms that persist after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among these symptoms, feelings of physical exhaustion and prolonged fatigue are particularly prevalent and can significantly impact patients' quality of life. These symptoms are associated with reduced overall physical capacity, decreased daily physical activity, malaise after intense training, and intolerance to physical activity (IFA). IFA, described as a reduced ability to perform physical activities typical for the patient's age, can often lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Prolonged physical inactivity can cause deterioration in the overall physical condition and disrupt mitochondrial function, triggering a vicious cycle of gradual symptom worsening. The underlying causes of PASC remain unclear; however, several biochemical mechanisms have been discussed to explain the body's energy depletion, and a multidisciplinary approach that combines physical and cognitive rehabilitation and lifestyle interventions such as exercise and diet modifications has been suggested to improve the overall health and well-being of PASC patients. This critical review aims to review the existing research on the possible causes and links among chronic fatigue, reduced physical activity, and exercise intolerance in patients with PASC. Further research into the underlying causes and treatment of PASC and the importance of developing individualized treatment is needed to address each patient's unique health requirements.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2
Cognitive Training
Fatigue/etiology/therapy

@article {pmid37898059,
year = {2023},
author = {Chinvararak, C and Chalder, T},
title = {Prevalence of sleep disturbances in patients with long COVID assessed by standardised questionnaires and diagnostic criteria: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of psychosomatic research},
volume = {175},
number = {},
pages = {111535},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111535},
pmid = {37898059},
issn = {1879-1360},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Sleep Wake Disorders/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology ; Sleep ; COVID-19 Testing ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: We aimed to study the prevalence of sleep disturbances in patients with long COVID-19.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the pooled prevalence of sleep disturbances in patients post COVID-19. We systematically searched relevant studies from three databases, including Medline, Embase and Scopus. Original articles were included based on specific criteria: peer-reviewed, observational studies involving adults (18 or older) with confirmed post COVID-19 status through PCR testing and focused on sleep in the context of post COVID-19. Exclusion criteria included non-English articles, studies with insufficient data, and narrative/systematic reviews. The search was performed from 31st July 2023 to 15th August 2023. We identified 35 eligible papers; however, we excluded 6 studies which did not describe the sleep assessment. We used a random-effects meta-analysis model to estimate the pooled prevalence of sleep disturbances.

RESULTS: 29 studies involved 13,935 long COVID-19 patients; approximately 39% of participants were male aged 18 to 97 years. The overall pooled prevalence of sleep disturbance was 46% (95% CI: 38-54%). Subgroup analyses revealed that the pooled prevalence of poor sleep quality was 56% (95% CI: 47-65%). The pooled prevalence of insomnia was 38% (95% CI: 28-48%). Finally, the pooled prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness was 14% (95% CI: 0-29%).

CONCLUSION: Sleep disturbances are common in long COVID-19 patients. The healthcare sector should recognise these sleep issues and provide an early, effective treatment to prevent long-term sequelae of sleep problems.},
}

Humans
Male
Female
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Sleep Wake Disorders/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology
Sleep
COVID-19 Testing

@article {pmid37906246,
year = {2024},
author = {Constantinidou, F and Sander, A and Bergquist, T and Zimmerman, AS and Kingsley, K},
title = {Strategies to Manage the Thinking and Emotional Difficulties of Long COVID: A Guide for Patients and Families.},
journal = {Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation},
volume = {105},
number = {9},
pages = {1809-1812},
doi = {10.1016/j.apmr.2023.09.014},
pmid = {37906246},
issn = {1532-821X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Emotions ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Thinking ; Family/psychology ; },
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Emotions
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Thinking
Family/psychology

@article {pmid37907497,
year = {2023},
author = {Li, J and Zhou, Y and Ma, J and Zhang, Q and Shao, J and Liang, S and Yu, Y and Li, W and Wang, C},
title = {The long-term health outcomes, pathophysiological mechanisms and multidisciplinary management of long COVID.},
journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {416},
pmid = {37907497},
issn = {2059-3635},
support = {2021M692309, 2022T150451//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2020HXBH084, CGZH21009//Sichuan University (SCU)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; },
abstract = {There have been hundreds of millions of cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). With the growing population of recovered patients, it is crucial to understand the long-term consequences of the disease and management strategies. Although COVID-19 was initially considered an acute respiratory illness, recent evidence suggests that manifestations including but not limited to those of the cardiovascular, respiratory, neuropsychiatric, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems may persist long after the acute phase. These persistent manifestations, also referred to as long COVID, could impact all patients with COVID-19 across the full spectrum of illness severity. Herein, we comprehensively review the current literature on long COVID, highlighting its epidemiological understanding, the impact of vaccinations, organ-specific sequelae, pathophysiological mechanisms, and multidisciplinary management strategies. In addition, the impact of psychological and psychosomatic factors is also underscored. Despite these crucial findings on long COVID, the current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on previous experience and pilot studies remain inadequate, and well-designed clinical trials should be prioritized to validate existing hypotheses. Thus, we propose the primary challenges concerning biological knowledge gaps and efficient remedies as well as discuss the corresponding recommendations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Outcome Assessment, Health Care

@article {pmid37919074,
year = {2023},
author = {Marschalek, R},
title = {SARS-CoV-2: The Virus, Its Biology and COVID-19 Disease-Counteracting Possibilities.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition)},
volume = {28},
number = {10},
pages = {273},
doi = {10.31083/j.fbl2810273},
pmid = {37919074},
issn = {2768-6698},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Biology ; Drug Combinations ; Lactams ; Leucine ; Nitriles ; Proline ; Ritonavir ; },
abstract = {Since the end of 2019, the SARS-CoV-2 virus started to spread in different countries, leading to a world-wide pandemia, with today's infection numbers of more than 690 million and with a case fatality rate of more than 6.9 million. In addition, about 65 million patients suffer from post/long-Covid syndromes after having infections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus or variants thereof. This review highlights the biology of the virus, summarizes our knowledge of some of the viral mechanisms that counteract our immune responses, and finally also discusses the different vaccines and their specific safety profiles. Also, the possibility to fight this virus with recently available drugs (Veklury, Lagevrio and Paxlovid) will be discussed. All these data clearly argue that SARS-CoV-2 variants still exhibit a dangerous potential-although with a lower case fatality rate-and that vaccination in combination with drug intake upon infection may help to lower the risk of developing chronic or temporary autoimmune diseases.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Biology
Drug Combinations
Lactams
Leucine
Nitriles
Proline
Ritonavir

@article {pmid37926103,
year = {2023},
author = {Gorst, SL and Seylanova, N and Dodd, SR and Harman, NL and O'Hara, M and Terwee, CB and Williamson, PR and Needham, DM and Munblit, D and Nicholson, TR and , },
title = {Core outcome measurement instruments for use in clinical and research settings for adults with post-COVID-19 condition: an international Delphi consensus study.},
journal = {The Lancet. Respiratory medicine},
volume = {11},
number = {12},
pages = {1101-1114},
doi = {10.1016/S2213-2600(23)00370-3},
pmid = {37926103},
issn = {2213-2619},
support = {MC_PC_20050/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; Delphi Technique ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; Research Design ; Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {Post-COVID-19 condition (also known as long COVID) is a new, complex, and poorly understood disorder. A core outcome set (COS) for post-COVID-19 condition in adults has been developed and agreement is now required on the most appropriate measurement instruments for these core outcomes. We conducted an international consensus study involving multidisciplinary experts and people with lived experience of long COVID. The study comprised a literature review to identify measurement instruments for the core outcomes, a three-round online modified Delphi process, and an online consensus meeting to generate a core outcome measurement set (COMS). 594 individuals from 58 countries participated. The number of potential instruments for the 12 core outcomes was reduced from 319 to 19. Consensus was reached for inclusion of the modified Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale for respiratory outcomes. Measures for two relevant outcomes from a previously published COS for acute COVID-19 were also included: time until death, for survival, and the Recovery Scale for COVID-19, for recovery. Instruments were suggested for consideration for the remaining nine core outcomes: fatigue or exhaustion, pain, post-exertion symptoms, work or occupational and study changes, and cardiovascular, nervous system, cognitive, mental health, and physical outcomes; however, consensus was not achieved for instruments for these outcomes. The recommended COMS and instruments for consideration provide a foundation for the evaluation of post-COVID-19 condition in adults, which should help to optimise clinical care and accelerate research worldwide. Further assessment of this COMS is warranted as new data emerge on existing and novel measurement instruments.},
}

Humans
Adult
Delphi Technique
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
Research Design
Outcome Assessment, Health Care
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid37927339,
year = {2023},
author = {Matveeva, N and Kiselev, I and Baulina, N and Semina, E and Kakotkin, V and Agapov, M and Kulakova, O and Favorova, O},
title = {Shared genetic architecture of COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease.},
journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1287322},
pmid = {37927339},
issn = {1663-4365},
abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the сoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have become a global health threat. At the height of the pandemic, major efforts were focused on reducing COVID-19-associated morbidity and mortality. Now is the time to study the long-term effects of the pandemic, particularly cognitive impairment associated with long COVID. In recent years much attention has been paid to the possible relationship between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, which is considered a main cause of age-related cognitive impairment. Genetic predisposition was shown for both COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease. However, the analysis of the similarity of the genetic architecture of these diseases is usually limited to indicating a positive genetic correlation between them. In this review, we have described intrinsic linkages between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, pointed out shared susceptibility genes that were previously identified in genome-wide association studies of both COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, and highlighted a panel of SNPs that includes candidate genetic risk markers of the long COVID-associated cognitive impairment.},
}

@article {pmid37931841,
year = {2024},
author = {Borczuk, AC},
title = {Pathogenesis of Pulmonary Long COVID-19.},
journal = {Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc},
volume = {37},
number = {2},
pages = {100378},
doi = {10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100378},
pmid = {37931841},
issn = {1530-0285},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Lung ; Complement Activation ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 is characterized by an acute respiratory illness that, in some patients, progresses to respiratory failure, largely demonstrating a pattern of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Excluding fatal cases, the outcome of this severe illness ranges from complete resolution to persistent respiratory dysfunction. This subacute-to-chronic respiratory illness has different manifestations and is collectively termed as "long COVID." The pathogenesis of organ dysfunction in acute injury stems from exaggerated innate immune response, complement activation, and monocyte influx, with a shift toward an organ injury state with abnormalities in cellular maturation. Although the increased rate of thrombosis observed in acute COVID-19 does not appear to persist, interestingly, ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 and post-COVID pathogeneses appear to reflect the persistence of immune and cellular disturbances triggered by the acute and subacute periods.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Lung
Complement Activation

@article {pmid37936547,
year = {2023},
author = {Wolff, D and Drewitz, KP and Ulrich, A and Siegels, D and Deckert, S and Sprenger, AA and Kuper, PR and Schmitt, J and Munblit, D and Apfelbacher, C},
title = {Allergic diseases as risk factors for Long-COVID symptoms: Systematic review of prospective cohort studies.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental allergy : journal of the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology},
volume = {53},
number = {11},
pages = {1162-1176},
doi = {10.1111/cea.14391},
pmid = {37936547},
issn = {1365-2222},
support = {//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Prospective Studies ; *Rhinitis ; *Asthma/epidemiology/etiology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The role of allergy as a risk factor for Long-COVID (LC) is unclear and has not been thoroughly examined yet. We aimed to systematically review and appraise the epidemiological evidence on allergic diseases as risk factors for LC.

DESIGN: This is an initial systematic review. Two reviewers independently performed the study selection and data extraction using Covidence. Risk of bias (RoB) and certainty of evidence (GRADE) were assessed. Random effects meta-analyses were used to pool unadjusted ORs within homogeneous data subsets.

DATA SOURCES: We retrieved articles published between January 1st, 2020 and January 19th, 2023 from MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, the WHO-COVID-19 database and the LOVE platform (Epistemonikos Foundation). In addition, citations and reference lists were searched.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included prospective cohort studies recruiting individuals of all ages with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection that were followed up for at least 12 months for LC symptoms where information on pre-existing allergic diseases was available. We excluded all study designs that were not prospective cohort studies and all publication types that were not original articles.

RESULTS: We identified 13 studies (9967 participants, range 39-1950 per study), all assessed as high RoB, due to population selection and methods used to ascertain the exposures and the outcome. Four studies did not provide sufficient data to calculate Odds Ratios. The evidence supported a possible relationship between LC and allergy, but was very uncertain. For example, pre-existing asthma measured in hospital-based populations (6 studies, 4019 participants) may be associated with increased risk of LC (Odds Ratio 1.94, 95% CI 1.08, 3.50) and findings were similar for pre-existing rhinitis (3 studies, 1141 participants; Odds Ratio 1.96, 95% CI 1.61, 2.39), both very low certainty evidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Pre-existing asthma or rhinitis may increase the risk of LC.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Prospective Studies
*Rhinitis
*Asthma/epidemiology/etiology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid37942323,
year = {2023},
author = {Müller, L and Di Benedetto, S},
title = {From aging to long COVID: exploring the convergence of immunosenescence, inflammaging, and autoimmunity.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1298004},
pmid = {37942323},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Immunosenescence ; Autoimmunity ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; Aging ; *Autoimmune Diseases ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {The process of aging is accompanied by a dynamic restructuring of the immune response, a phenomenon known as immunosenescence. This mini-review navigates through the complex landscape of age-associated immune changes, chronic inflammation, age-related autoimmune tendencies, and their potential links with immunopathology of Long COVID. Immunosenescence serves as an introductory departure point, elucidating alterations in immune cell profiles and their functional dynamics, changes in T-cell receptor signaling, cytokine network dysregulation, and compromised regulatory T-cell function. Subsequent scrutiny of chronic inflammation, or "inflammaging," highlights its roles in age-related autoimmune susceptibilities and its potential as a mediator of the immune perturbations observed in Long COVID patients. The introduction of epigenetic facets further amplifies the potential interconnections. In this compact review, we consider the dynamic interactions between immunosenescence, inflammation, and autoimmunity. We aim to explore the multifaceted relationships that link these processes and shed light on the underlying mechanisms that drive their interconnectedness. With a focus on understanding the immunological changes in the context of aging, we seek to provide insights into how immunosenescence and inflammation contribute to the emergence and progression of autoimmune disorders in the elderly and may serve as potential mediator for Long COVID disturbances.},
}

Humans
Aged
*Immunosenescence
Autoimmunity
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
Aging
*Autoimmune Diseases
Inflammation

@article {pmid37943302,
year = {2023},
author = {Bhattacharjee, N and Sarkar, P and Sarkar, T},
title = {Beyond the acute illness: Exploring long COVID and its impact on multiple organ systems.},
journal = {Physiology international},
volume = {110},
number = {4},
pages = {291-310},
doi = {10.1556/2060.2023.00256},
pmid = {37943302},
issn = {2498-602X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/complications ; Acute Disease ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Unprecedented worldwide health catastrophe due to the COVID-19 pandemic has ended up resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates. Even though many people recover from acute infection, there is rising concern regarding post-COVID-19 conditions (PCCs), often referred to as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) or "long COVID." The respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and endocrine systems are just a few of the many organ systems that can be impacted by this multifarious, complicated illness. The clinical manifestations of long COVID can vary among individuals and may include fatigue, dyspnea, chest pain, cognitive impairment, and new-onset diabetes, among others. Although the underlying processes of long COVID are not fully understood, they probably involve unregulated immune response, persistent generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (chronic inflammation), autoimmune-like reactions, persistent viral replication, and micro-clot formation. To create successful treatments and care plans, it is essential to comprehend the immunological mechanisms causing these difficulties. The pathogenesis of long COVID should be clarified and potential biomarkers to help with diagnosis and treatment should be sought after. To reduce the burden of long COVID on people and healthcare systems around the world, the need for long-term monitoring and management of long COVID problems should be emphasized. It also underscores the significance of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. The goal of this review is to carefully evaluate the clinical signs and symptoms of long COVID, their underlying causes, and any potential immunological implications.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/complications
Acute Disease
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37947962,
year = {2023},
author = {Hira, R and Karalasingham, K and Baker, JR and Raj, SR},
title = {Autonomic Manifestations of Long-COVID Syndrome.},
journal = {Current neurology and neuroscience reports},
volume = {23},
number = {12},
pages = {881-892},
pmid = {37947962},
issn = {1534-6293},
support = {UL1 TR000445/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology/etiology ; Autonomic Nervous System ; *Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Long-COVID is a novel condition emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Long-COVID is characterized by symptoms commonly seen in autonomic disorders including fatigue, brain fog, light-headedness, and palpitations. This article will critically evaluate recent findings and studies on Long-COVID and its physiological autonomic manifestations.

RECENT FINDINGS: Studies have reported on the prevalence of different symptoms and autonomic disorders in Long-COVID cohorts. Autonomic nervous system function, including both the parasympathetic and sympathetic limbs, has been studied using different testing techniques in Long-COVID patients. While numerous mechanisms may contribute to Long-COVID autonomic pathophysiology, it is currently unclear which ones lead to a Long-COVID presentation. To date, studies have not tested treatment options for autonomic disorders in Long-COVID patients. Long-COVID is associated with autonomic abnormalities. There is a high prevalence of clinical autonomic disorders among Long-COVID patients, with limited knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and the effectiveness of treatment options.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Pandemics
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology/etiology
Autonomic Nervous System
*Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology

@article {pmid37948194,
year = {2023},
author = {Grand, RJ},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 and the DNA damage response.},
journal = {The Journal of general virology},
volume = {104},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {37948194},
issn = {1465-2099},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Genomic Instability ; DNA Damage ; },
abstract = {The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 is characterized by respiratory distress, multiorgan dysfunction and, in some cases, death. The virus is also responsible for post-COVID-19 condition (commonly referred to as 'long COVID'). SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus with a genome of approximately 30 kb, which encodes 26 proteins. It has been reported to affect multiple pathways in infected cells, resulting, in many cases, in the induction of a 'cytokine storm' and cellular senescence. Perhaps because it is an RNA virus, replicating largely in the cytoplasm, the effect of SARS-Cov-2 on genome stability and DNA damage responses (DDRs) has received relatively little attention. However, it is now becoming clear that the virus causes damage to cellular DNA, as shown by the presence of micronuclei, DNA repair foci and increased comet tails in infected cells. This review considers recent evidence indicating how SARS-CoV-2 causes genome instability, deregulates the cell cycle and targets specific components of DDR pathways. The significance of the virus's ability to cause cellular senescence is also considered, as are the implications of genome instability for patients suffering from long COVID.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Genomic Instability
DNA Damage

@article {pmid37950846,
year = {2023},
author = {Ocampo, FF and Promsena, P and Chan, P},
title = {Update on Central Nervous System Effects of the Intersection of HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Current HIV/AIDS reports},
volume = {20},
number = {6},
pages = {345-356},
pmid = {37950846},
issn = {1548-3576},
mesh = {Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19/complications ; *HIV-1 ; *HIV Infections/complications/drug therapy ; *HIV Seropositivity ; Central Nervous System ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Research has shown myriad neurologic and mental health manifestations during the acute and subsequent stages of COVID-19 in people with HIV (PWH). This review summarizes the updates on central nervous system (CNS) outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection in PWH and highlight the existing knowledge gaps in this area.

RECENT FINDINGS: Studies leveraging electronic record systems have highlighted the excess risk of developing acute and lingering neurological complications of COVID-19 in PWH compared to people without HIV (PWoH). However, there is a notable scarcity of neuroimaging as well as blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) marker studies that can confirm the potential synergy between these two infections, particularly in PWH receiving suppressive antiretroviral therapy. Considering the unclear potential interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and HIV, clinicians should remain vigilant regarding new-onset or worsening neurological symptoms in PWH following COVID-19, as they could be linked to either infection.},
}

Humans
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19/complications
*HIV-1
*HIV Infections/complications/drug therapy
*HIV Seropositivity
Central Nervous System

@article {pmid37951572,
year = {2024},
author = {Theoharides, TC and Twahir, A and Kempuraj, D},
title = {Mast cells in the autonomic nervous system and potential role in disorders with dysautonomia and neuroinflammation.},
journal = {Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology},
volume = {132},
number = {4},
pages = {440-454},
doi = {10.1016/j.anai.2023.10.032},
pmid = {37951572},
issn = {1534-4436},
mesh = {Humans ; Mast Cells ; Neuroinflammatory Diseases ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Autonomic Nervous System ; *Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Mast cells (MC) are ubiquitous in the body, and they are critical for not only in allergic diseases but also in immunity and inflammation, including having potential involvement in the pathophysiology of dysautonomias and neuroinflammatory disorders. MC are located perivascularly close to nerve endings and sites such as the carotid bodies, heart, hypothalamus, the pineal gland, and the adrenal gland that would allow them not only to regulate but also to be affected by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). MC are stimulated not only by allergens but also many other triggers including some from the ANS that can affect MC release of neurosensitizing, proinflammatory, and vasoactive mediators. Hence, MC may be able to regulate homeostatic functions that seem to be dysfunctional in many conditions, such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, and Long-COVID syndrome. The evidence indicates that there is a possible association between these conditions and diseases associated with MC activation. There is no effective treatment for any form of these conditions other than minimizing symptoms. Given the many ways MC could be activated and the numerous mediators released, it would be important to develop ways to inhibit stimulation of MC and the release of ANS-relevant mediators.},
}

Humans
Mast Cells
Neuroinflammatory Diseases
*Autism Spectrum Disorder
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Autonomic Nervous System
*Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

@article {pmid37953801,
year = {2023},
author = {Marwaha, B},
title = {Role of Tau protein in long COVID and potential therapeutic targets.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1280600},
pmid = {37953801},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Rats ; *COVID-19 ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *tau Proteins/metabolism ; Tauopathies/diagnosis/drug therapy/metabolism ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Long COVID is an emerging public health burden and has been defined as a syndrome with common symptoms of fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive dysfunction, and others impacting day-to-day life, fluctuating or relapsing over, occurring for at least two months in patients with a history of probable or confirmed SARS CoV-2 infection; usually three months from the onset of illness and cannot be explained by an alternate diagnosis. The actual prevalence of long-term COVID-19 is unknown, but it is believed that more than 17 million patients in Europe may have suffered from it during pandemic.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY: Currently, there is limited understanding of the pathophysiology of this syndrome, and multiple hypotheses have been proposed. Our literature review has shown studies reporting tau deposits in tissue samples of the brain from autopsies of COVID-19 patients compared to the control group, and the in-vitro human brain organoid model has shown aberrant phosphorylation of tau protein in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Tauopathies, a group of neurodegenerative disorders with the salient features of tau deposits, can manifest different symptoms based on the anatomical region of brain involvement and have been shown to affect the peripheral nervous system as well and explained even in rat model studies. Long COVID has more than 203 symptoms, with predominant symptoms of fatigue, dyspnea, and cognitive dysfunction, which tauopathy-induced CNS and peripheral nervous system dysfunction can explain. There have been no studies up till now to reveal the pathophysiology of long COVID. Based on our literature review, aberrant tau phosphorylation is a promising hypothesis that can be explored in future studies. Therapeutic approaches for tauopathies have multidimensional aspects, including targeting post-translational modifications, tau aggregation, and tau clearance through the autophagy process with the help of lysosomes, which can be potential targets for developing therapeutic interventions for the long COVID. In addition, future studies can attempt to find the tau proteins in CSF and use those as biomarkers for the long COVID.},
}

Animals
Humans
Rats
*COVID-19
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*tau Proteins/metabolism
Tauopathies/diagnosis/drug therapy/metabolism

@article {pmid37957515,
year = {2024},
author = {Gomaa, AA and Abdel-Wadood, YA and Thabet, RH and Gomaa, GA},
title = {Pharmacological evaluation of vitamin D in COVID-19 and long COVID-19: recent studies confirm clinical validation and highlight metformin to improve VDR sensitivity and efficacy.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {32},
number = {1},
pages = {249-271},
pmid = {37957515},
issn = {1568-5608},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Chronic Disease ; *COVID-19 ; Observational Studies as Topic ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Receptors, Calcitriol ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vitamin D/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Vitamins/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Nearly four years after its first appearance, and having gone from pandemic to endemic, the SARS-CoV-2 remains out of control globally. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of vitamin D (VD) in COVID-19 and long COVID-19, explain the discrepancy in clinical outcomes and highlight the potential impact of metformin on VD efficacy in recent articles. Articles from January 2022 to August 2023 were selected for this review. The objective of this study was achieved by reviewing, analyzing, and discussing articles demonstrating (1) the mechanism of action of VD (2) observational or randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that support or not the beneficial clinical effects of VD in COVID-19 or long COVID. (3) genetic and non-genetic reasons for the variation in the effects of VD. Articles were collected from electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Egyptian Knowledge Bank, Science Direct, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Twenty three studies conducted in vitro or in animal models indicated that VD may act in COVID-19 through protecting the respiratory system by antimicrobial peptide cathelicidins, reducing lung inflammation, regulating innate and adaptive immune functions and up regulation of autophagy gene activity. Our review identified 58 clinical studies that met the criteria. The number of publications supporting a beneficial clinical activity of VD in treating COVID-19 was 49 (86%), including 12 meta-analyses. Although the total patients included in all articles was 14,071,273, patients included in publications supporting a beneficial role of VD in COVID-19 were 14,029,411 (99.7%). Collectively, extensive observational studies indicated a decisive relationship between low VD levels and the severity of COVID-19 and mortality outcomes. Importantly, evidence from intervention studies has demonstrated the effectiveness of VD supplements in treating COVID-19. Furthermore, the results of 4 observational studies supported the beneficial role of VD in alleviating symptoms of long COVID-19 disease. However, eight RCTs and one meta-analysis of RCTs may contain low-grade evidence against a beneficial role of VD in COVID-19. Twenty-five articles have addressed the association between VDR and DBP genetic polymorphisms and treatment failure of VD in COVID-19. Impaired VDR signaling may underlie the variability of VD effects as non-genetic mechanisms. Interestingly, in recent studies, metformin has a beneficial therapeutic role in COVID-19 and long COVID-19, possibly by improving AMPK signaling of the VDR and enhancing the efficacy of the VD. In conclusion, evidence has been significantly strengthened over the past 18 months, with several meta-analyses and RCTs reporting conclusive beneficial effects of VD supplementation against COVID-19 and highlighting metformin to improve VDR sensitivity and efficacy in treating COVID-19 and long COVID-19.},
}

Animals
Humans
Chronic Disease
*COVID-19
Observational Studies as Topic
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Receptors, Calcitriol
SARS-CoV-2
*Vitamin D/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Vitamins/pharmacology/therapeutic use

@article {pmid37958264,
year = {2023},
author = {Luchian, ML and Higny, J and Benoit, M and Robaye, B and Berners, Y and Henry, JP and Colle, B and Xhaët, O and Blommaert, D and Droogmans, S and Motoc, AI and Cosyns, B and Gabriel, L and Guedes, A and Demeure, F},
title = {Unmasking Pandemic Echoes: An In-Depth Review of Long COVID's Unabated Cardiovascular Consequences beyond 2020.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {21},
pages = {},
pmid = {37958264},
issn = {2075-4418},
abstract = {At the beginning of 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged as a new pandemic, leading to a worldwide health crisis and overwhelming healthcare systems due to high numbers of hospital admissions, insufficient resources, and a lack of standardized therapeutic protocols. Multiple genetic variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been detected since its first public declaration in 2020, some of them being considered variants of concern (VOCs) corresponding to several pandemic waves. Nevertheless, a growing number of COVID-19 patients are continuously discharged from hospitals, remaining symptomatic even months after their first episode of COVID-19 infection. Long COVID-19 or 'post-acute COVID-19 syndrome' emerged as the new pandemic, being characterized by a high variability of clinical manifestations ranging from cardiorespiratory and neurological symptoms such as chest pain, exertional dyspnoea or cognitive disturbance to psychological disturbances, e.g., depression, anxiety or sleep disturbance with a crucial impact on patients' quality of life. Moreover, Long COVID is viewed as a new cardiovascular risk factor capable of modifying the trajectory of current and future cardiovascular diseases, altering the patients' prognosis. Therefore, in this review we address the current definitions of Long COVID and its pathophysiology, with a focus on cardiovascular manifestations. Furthermore, we aim to review the mechanisms of acute and chronic cardiac injury and the variety of cardiovascular sequelae observed in recovered COVID-19 patients, in addition to the potential role of Long COVID clinics in the medical management of this new condition. We will further address the role of future research for a better understanding of the actual impact of Long COVID and future therapeutic directions.},
}

@article {pmid37964554,
year = {2023},
author = {Pierre, V and Draica, F and Di Fusco, M and Yang, J and Nunez-Gonzalez, S and Kamar, J and Lopez, S and Moran, MM and Nguyen, J and Alvarez, P and Cha-Silva, A and Gavaghan, M and Yehoshua, A and Stapleton, N and Burnett, H},
title = {The impact of vaccination and outpatient treatment on the economic burden of Covid-19 in the United States omicron era: a systematic literature review.},
journal = {Journal of medical economics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {1519-1531},
doi = {10.1080/13696998.2023.2281882},
pmid = {37964554},
issn = {1941-837X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Financial Stress ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Outpatients ; Vaccination ; *Vaccines ; },
abstract = {AIMS: To identify and synthesize evidence regarding how coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) interventions, including vaccines and outpatient treatments, have impacted healthcare resource use (HCRU) and costs in the United States (US) during the Omicron era.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic literature review (SLR) was performed to identify articles published between 1 January 2021 and 10 March 2023 that assessed the impact of vaccination and outpatient treatment on costs and HCRU outcomes associated with COVID-19. Screening was performed by two independent researchers using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria.

RESULTS: Fifty-eight unique studies were included in the SLR, of which all reported HCRU outcomes, and one reported costs. Overall, there was a significant reduction in the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization for patients who received an original monovalent primary series vaccine plus booster dose vs. no vaccination. Moreover, receipt of a booster vaccine was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization vs. primary series vaccination. Evidence also indicated a significantly reduced risk of hospitalizations among recipients of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (NMV/r), remdesivir, sotrovimab, and molnupiravir compared to non-recipients. Treated and/or vaccinated patients also experienced reductions in intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, length of stay, and emergency department (ED)/urgent care clinic encounters.

LIMITATIONS: The identified studies may not represent unique patient populations as many utilized the same regional/national data sources. Synthesis of the evidence was also limited by differences in populations, outcome definitions, and varying duration of follow-up across studies. Additionally, significant gaps, including HCRU associated with long COVID and various high-risk populations and cost data, were observed.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite evidence gaps, findings from the SLR highlight the significant positive impact that vaccination and outpatient treatment have had on HCRU in the US, including periods of Omicron predominance. Continued research is needed to inform clinical and policy decision-making in the US as COVID-19 continues to evolve as an endemic disease.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Financial Stress
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Outpatients
Vaccination
*Vaccines

@article {pmid37985854,
year = {2024},
author = {Sievers, BL and Cheng, MTK and Csiba, K and Meng, B and Gupta, RK},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 and innate immunity: the good, the bad, and the "goldilocks".},
journal = {Cellular & molecular immunology},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {171-183},
pmid = {37985854},
issn = {2042-0226},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Immunity, Innate ; },
abstract = {An ancient conflict between hosts and pathogens has driven the innate and adaptive arms of immunity. Knowledge about this interplay can not only help us identify biological mechanisms but also reveal pathogen vulnerabilities that can be leveraged therapeutically. The humoral response to SARS-CoV-2 infection has been the focus of intense research, and the role of the innate immune system has received significantly less attention. Here, we review current knowledge of the innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the various means SARS-CoV-2 employs to evade innate defense systems. We also consider the role of innate immunity in SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and in the phenomenon of long COVID.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19
COVID-19 Vaccines
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Immunity, Innate

@article {pmid37987274,
year = {2023},
author = {Sánchez-García, JC and Reinoso-Cobo, A and Piqueras-Sola, B and Cortés-Martín, J and Menor-Rodríguez, MJ and Alabau-Dasi, R and Rodríguez-Blanque, R},
title = {Long COVID and Physical Therapy: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {37987274},
issn = {2079-9721},
abstract = {Prolonged COVID is a persistent condition following the initial COVID-19 infection, which is characterized by a variety of symptoms that may include fatigue, muscle pain, sleep disturbances, "brain fog", respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, neurological and dermatological symptoms. Physical therapy has been identified as a crucial aspect of the management of patients with long COVID, as it can help improve symptoms and overall physical function. The investigation of long COVID poses significant challenges due to the diversity and variability of symptoms, lack of clear diagnostic criteria, and limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review of studies conducted in patients with long COVID in conjunction with interventions targeting respiratory function, particularly involving physical activity. To this end, we conducted a systematic review to analyze studies conducted on treatment programs for long COVID based on some form of physical activity. The protocol of the review was registered in the PROSPERO website, and the databases PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL and WOS were searched. Of the 62 initial articles, six were included in the review. The results obtained have positive implications for the advancement of physical activity as a therapeutic intervention for individuals with long COVID-19 and the conceptualization of evidence-based treatment protocols. Statistically significant results have been observed in studies of at least 6 weeks duration, in which inspiratory muscle training exercises are proposed. Further research is needed to better understand long COVID and develop effective treatment strategies.},
}

@article {pmid38002002,
year = {2023},
author = {Hu, Y and Liu, Y and Zheng, H and Liu, L},
title = {Risk Factors for Long COVID in Older Adults.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {11},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {38002002},
issn = {2227-9059},
support = {32070923//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022SCP010//The High-level Talent Promotion and Training Project of Kunming/ ; 2021-I2M-1-043//CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {As time has passed following the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 have gradually exhibited a variety of symptoms associated with long COVID in the postacute phase of infection. Simultaneously, in many countries worldwide, the process of population aging has been accelerating. Within this context, the elderly population has not only become susceptible and high-risk during the acute phase of COVID-19 but also has considerable risks when confronting long COVID. Elderly individuals possess specific immunological backgrounds, and during the process of aging, their immune systems can enter a state known as "immunosenescence". This further exacerbates "inflammaging" and the development of various comorbidities in elderly individuals, rendering them more susceptible to long COVID. Additionally, long COVID can inflict both physical and mental harm upon elderly people, thereby reducing their overall quality of life. Consequently, the impact of long COVID on elderly people should not be underestimated. This review seeks to summarize the infection characteristics and intrinsic factors of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the physical and mental impact of long COVID. Additionally, it aims to explore potential strategies to mitigate the risk of long COVID or other emerging infectious diseases among older adults in the future.},
}

@article {pmid38004261,
year = {2023},
author = {Mohan, A and Iyer, VA and Kumar, D and Batra, L and Dahiya, P},
title = {Navigating the Post-COVID-19 Immunological Era: Understanding Long COVID-19 and Immune Response.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {38004261},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world unprecedentedly, with both positive and negative impacts. COVID-19 significantly impacted the immune system, and understanding the immunological consequences of COVID-19 is essential for developing effective treatment strategies. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively explore and provide insights into the immunological aspects of long COVID-19, a phenomenon where individuals continue to experience a range of symptoms and complications, even after the acute phase of COVID-19 infection has subsided. The immune system responds to the initial infection by producing various immune cells and molecules, including antibodies, T cells, and cytokines. However, in some patients, this immune response becomes dysregulated, leading to chronic inflammation and persistent symptoms. Long COVID-19 encompasses diverse persistent symptoms affecting multiple organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and gastrointestinal systems. In the post-COVID-19 immunological era, long COVID-19 and its impact on immune response have become a significant concern. Post-COVID-19 immune pathology, including autoimmunity and immune-mediated disorders, has also been reported in some patients. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of long COVID-19, its relationship to immunological responses, and the impact of post-COVID-19 immune pathology on patient outcomes. Additionally, the review addresses the current and potential treatments for long COVID-19, including immunomodulatory therapies, rehabilitation programs, and mental health support, all of which aim to improve the quality of life for individuals with long COVID-19. Understanding the complex interplay between the immune system and long COVID-19 is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies and providing optimal care in the post-COVID-19 era.},
}

@article {pmid38014645,
year = {2024},
author = {Volk, P and Rahmani Manesh, M and Warren, ME and Besko, K and Gonçalves de Andrade, E and Wicki-Stordeur, LE and Swayne, LA},
title = {Long-term neurological dysfunction associated with COVID-19: Lessons from influenza and inflammatory diseases?.},
journal = {Journal of neurochemistry},
volume = {168},
number = {10},
pages = {3500-3511},
doi = {10.1111/jnc.16016},
pmid = {38014645},
issn = {1471-4159},
support = {GA4-177766//CIHR/Canada ; PJT 185887//CIHR/Canada ; GA4-177766//CIHR/Canada ; PJT 185887//CIHR/Canada ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Influenza, Human/complications/epidemiology ; Nervous System Diseases/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology ; Inflammation ; Fatigue/etiology ; },
abstract = {As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, SARS-CoV-2 infection is increasingly associated with long-term neurological side effects including cognitive impairment, fatigue, depression, and anxiety, colloquially known as "long-COVID." While the full extent of long-COVID neuropathology across years or even decades is not yet known, we can perhaps take direction from long-standing research into other respiratory diseases, such as influenza, that can present with similar long-term neurological consequences. In this review, we highlight commonalities in the neurological impacts of influenza and COVID-19. We first focus on the common potential mechanisms underlying neurological sequelae of long-COVID and influenza, namely (1) viral neurotropism and (2) dysregulated peripheral inflammation. The latter, namely heightened peripheral inflammation leading to central nervous system dysfunction, is emerging as a shared mechanism in various peripheral inflammatory or inflammation-associated diseases and conditions. We then discuss historical and modern examples of influenza- and COVID-19-associated cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, and fatigue, revealing key similarities in their neurological sequelae. Although we are learning that the effects of influenza and COVID differ somewhat in terms of their influence on the brain, as the impacts of long-COVID grow, such comparisons will likely prove valuable in guiding ongoing research into long-COVID, and perhaps foreshadow what could be in store for individuals with COVID-19 and their brain health.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Influenza, Human/complications/epidemiology
Nervous System Diseases/etiology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology
Inflammation
Fatigue/etiology

@article {pmid38017426,
year = {2023},
author = {Guo, B and Zhao, C and He, MZ and Senter, C and Zhou, Z and Peng, J and Li, S and Fitzpatrick, AL and Lindström, S and Stebbins, RC and Noppert, GA and Li, C},
title = {Identifying patterns of reported findings on long-term cardiac complications of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC medicine},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {468},
pmid = {38017426},
issn = {1741-7015},
support = {R01 AG075719/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R00AG062749/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; R01AG075719/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; T32 HD049311/HD/NICHD NIH HHS/United States ; R00 AG062749/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Arrhythmias, Cardiac/epidemiology/etiology ; Chest Pain ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Prior reviews synthesized findings of studies on long-term cardiac complications of COVID-19. However, the reporting and methodological quality of these studies has not been systematically evaluated. Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on long-term cardiac complications of COVID-19 and examined patterns of reported findings by study quality and characteristics.

METHODS: We searched for studies examining long-term cardiac complications of COVID-19 that persisted for 4 weeks and over. A customized Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. Meta-analysis was performed to generate prevalence estimates of long-term cardiac complications across studies. Stratified analyses were further conducted to examine the prevalence of each complication by study quality and characteristics. The GRADE approach was used to determine the level of evidence for complications included in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS: A total number of 150 studies describing 57 long-term cardiac complications were included in this review, and 137 studies reporting 17 complications were included in the meta-analysis. Only 25.3% (n = 38) of studies were of high quality based on the NOS quality assessment. Chest pain and arrhythmia were the most widely examined long-term complications. When disregarding study quality and characteristics, summary prevalence estimates for chest and arrhythmia were 9.79% (95% CI 7.24-13.11) and 8.22% (95% CI 6.46-10.40), respectively. However, stratified analyses showed that studies with low-quality scores, small sample sizes, unsystematic sampling methods, and cross-sectional design were more likely to report a higher prevalence of complications. For example, the prevalence of chest pain was 22.17% (95% CI 14.40-32.55), 11.08% (95% CI 8.65-14.09), and 3.89% (95% CI 2.49-6.03) in studies of low, medium, and high quality, respectively. Similar patterns were observed for arrhythmia and other less examined long-term cardiac complications.

CONCLUSION: There is a wide spectrum of long-term cardiac complications of COVID-19. Reported findings from previous studies are strongly related to study quality, sample sizes, sampling methods, and designs, underscoring the need for high-quality epidemiologic studies to characterize these complications and understand their etiology.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Cross-Sectional Studies
Arrhythmias, Cardiac/epidemiology/etiology
Chest Pain

@article {pmid38018136,
year = {2023},
author = {Boccatonda, A and Campello, E and Simion, C and Simioni, P},
title = {Long-term hypercoagulability, endotheliopathy and inflammation following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Expert review of hematology},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {1035-1048},
doi = {10.1080/17474086.2023.2288154},
pmid = {38018136},
issn = {1747-4094},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Endothelial Cells/metabolism ; Inflammation ; *Thrombosis/etiology/metabolism ; *Thrombophilia/etiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: both symptomatic and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections - coined Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) - have been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular events after recovery.

AREAS COVERED: our review aims to summarize the latest evidence on the increased thrombotic and cardiovascular risk in recovered COVID-19 patients and to examine the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the interplay among endothelial dysfunction, inflammatory response and coagulation in long-COVID. We performed a systematic search of studies on hypercoagulability, endothelial dysfunction and inflammation after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

EXPERT OPINION: endothelial dysfunction is a major pathophysiological mechanism responsible for most clinical manifestations in COVID-19. The pathological activation of endothelial cells by a virus infection results in a pro-adhesive and chemokine-secreting phenotype, which in turn promotes the recruitment of circulating leukocytes. Cardiovascular events after COVID-19 appear to be related to persistent immune dysregulation. Patients with long-lasting symptoms display higher amounts of proinflammatory molecules such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon γ and interleukins 2 and 6. Immune dysregulation can trigger the activation of the coagulation pathway. The formation of extensive microclots in vivo, both during acute COVID-19 and in long-COVID-19, appears to be a relevant mechanism responsible for persistent symptoms and cardiovascular events.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Endothelial Cells/metabolism
Inflammation
*Thrombosis/etiology/metabolism
*Thrombophilia/etiology

@article {pmid38019841,
year = {2023},
author = {Hoshijima, H and Mihara, T and Seki, H and Hyuga, S and Kuratani, N and Shiga, T},
title = {Incidence of long-term post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection related to pain and other symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {18},
number = {11},
pages = {e0250909},
pmid = {38019841},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Incidence ; Anosmia ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Headache/epidemiology/etiology ; Dyspnea/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Persistent symptoms are reported in patients who survive the initial stage of COVID-19, often referred to as "long COVID" or "post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection" (PASC); however, evidence on their incidence is still lacking, and symptoms relevant to pain are yet to be assessed.

METHODS: A literature search was performed using the electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and CHINAL and preprint servers MedRχiv and BioRχiv through January 15, 2021. The primary outcome was pain-related symptoms such as headache or myalgia. Secondary outcomes were symptoms relevant to pain (depression or muscle weakness) and symptoms frequently reported (anosmia and dyspnea). Incidence rates of symptoms were pooled using inverse variance methods with a DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. The source of heterogeneity was explored using meta-regression, with follow-up period, age and sex as covariates.

RESULTS: In total, 38 studies including 19,460 patients were eligible. Eight pain-related symptoms and 26 other symptoms were identified. The highest pooled incidence among pain-related symptoms was chest pain (17%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 11%-24%), followed by headache (16%, 95% CI, 9%-27%), arthralgia (13%, 95% CI, 7%-24%), neuralgia (12%, 95% CI, 3%-38%) and abdominal pain (11%, 95% CI, 7%-16%). The highest pooled incidence among other symptoms was fatigue (44%, 95% CI, 32%-57%), followed by insomnia (27%, 95% CI, 10%-55%), dyspnea (26%, 95% CI, 17%-38%), weakness (25%, 95% CI, 8%-56%) and anosmia (19%, 95% CI, 13%-27%). Substantial heterogeneity was identified (I2, 50-100%). Meta-regression analyses partially accounted for the source of heterogeneity, and yet, 53% of the symptoms remained unexplained.

CONCLUSIONS: The current meta-analysis may provide a complete picture of incidence in PASC. It remains unclear, however, whether post-COVID symptoms progress or regress over time or to what extent PASC are associated with age or sex.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Incidence
Anosmia
SARS-CoV-2
Headache/epidemiology/etiology
Dyspnea/epidemiology

@article {pmid38020714,
year = {2023},
author = {Wu, J and Yang, H and Yu, D and Yang, X},
title = {Blood-derived product therapies for SARS-CoV-2 infection and long COVID.},
journal = {MedComm},
volume = {4},
number = {6},
pages = {e426},
pmid = {38020714},
issn = {2688-2663},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is capable of large-scale transmission and has caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Patients with COVID-19 may experience persistent long-term health issues, known as long COVID. Both acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and long COVID have resulted in persistent negative impacts on global public health. The effective application and development of blood-derived products are important strategies to combat the serious damage caused by COVID-19. Since the emergence of COVID-19, various blood-derived products that target or do not target SARS-CoV-2 have been investigated for therapeutic applications. SARS-CoV-2-targeting blood-derived products, including COVID-19 convalescent plasma, COVID-19 hyperimmune globulin, and recombinant anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing immunoglobulin G, are virus-targeting and can provide immediate control of viral infection in the short term. Non-SARS-CoV-2-targeting blood-derived products, including intravenous immunoglobulin and human serum albumin exhibit anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anticoagulatory properties. Rational use of these products can be beneficial to patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection or long COVID. With evidence accumulated since the pandemic began, we here summarize the progress of blood-derived product therapies for COVID-19, discuss the effective methods and scenarios regarding these therapies, and provide guidance and suggestions for clinical treatment.},
}

@article {pmid38024037,
year = {2023},
author = {Hulscher, N and Procter, BC and Wynn, C and McCullough, PA},
title = {Clinical Approach to Post-acute Sequelae After COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {15},
number = {11},
pages = {e49204},
pmid = {38024037},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 has been found to exhibit pathogenic characteristics and be a possible cause of post-acute sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines utilize a modified, stabilized prefusion spike protein that may share similar toxic effects with its viral counterpart. The aim of this study is to investigate possible mechanisms of harm to biological systems from SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and vaccine-encoded spike protein and to propose possible mitigation strategies. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and 'grey literature' to find studies that (1) investigated the effects of the spike protein on biological systems, (2) helped differentiate between viral and vaccine-generated spike proteins, and (3) identified possible spike protein detoxification protocols and compounds that had signals of benefit and acceptable safety profiles. We found abundant evidence that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein may cause damage in the cardiovascular, hematological, neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and immunological systems. Viral and vaccine-encoded spike proteins have been shown to play a direct role in cardiovascular and thrombotic injuries from both SARS-CoV-2 and vaccination. Detection of spike protein for at least 6-15 months after vaccination and infection in those with post-acute sequelae indicates spike protein as a possible primary contributing factor to long COVID. We rationalized that these findings give support to the potential benefit of spike protein detoxification protocols in those with long-term post-infection and/or vaccine-induced complications. We propose a base spike detoxification protocol, composed of oral nattokinase, bromelain, and curcumin. This approach holds immense promise as a base of clinical care, upon which additional therapeutic agents are applied with the goal of aiding in the resolution of post-acute sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination. Large-scale, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are warranted in order to determine the relative risks and benefits of the base spike detoxification protocol.},
}

@article {pmid38025440,
year = {2023},
author = {Perea-Flórez, F and Javier-Murillo, N and Lapeyre-Rivera, A and Gamonal, B and Cabanillas-Lazo, M and Velásquez-Rimachi, V and Alva-Diaz, C},
title = {Prevalence and incidence of neuropsychiatric disorders in post hospitalized COVID-19 patients in South America: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1163989},
pmid = {38025440},
issn = {1664-0640},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There are multiple reports of neuropsychiatric disorders (NDs) such as stress, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or anxiety, in patients who have survived the acute phase of COVID-19, being even more frequent in people who were hospitalized with moderate or severe disease. South America (SA) was one of the most affected continents during this time due to its health, social, political and economic context. We aimed to determine the prevalence and incidence of NDs in patients following hospitalization for COVID-19 in SA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases up to October 2022. We performed proportion meta-analysis with a random-effect model and Freeman-Tukey Double Arcsine transformation using the STATA 16.1 program. Finally, we evaluated heterogeneity by subgroup analysis and certainty of evidence with the GRADE approach.

RESULTS: We included eight studies from four countries. We only pooled six studies with prevalence measures. The estimated prevalence of all NDs was 31.48% (two-studies, 95%CI: 25.82-37.43). Depression, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, and memory alterations had a pooled prevalence of 16.23% (three-studies, 95%CI: 7.18-27.93, I2: 94.22), 18.72% (three-studies, 95%CI: 11.65-26.97, I2: 87.56), 43.07% (three-studies, 95%CI: 32.77-53.37, I2: 92.61), 31.78% (three-studies, 95%CI: 14.33-52.40, I2: 97.96), and 38.24% (two-studies, 95%CI: 35.5-40.97), respectively. The evidence included was deemed as moderate to high certainty.

CONCLUSION: We suggest that NDs should be prioritized in research and care in South America with public policies that can support their identification and prompt management to improve the quality of life of patients. More studies are needed to adequately study the prevalence of NDs in South America, their associated factors, and evaluate the causes of heterogeneity.

https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.21901041.v1.},
}

@article {pmid38043758,
year = {2024},
author = {Kitselman A, K and Bédard-Matteau, J and Rousseau, S and Tabrizchi, R and Daneshtalab, N},
title = {Sex differences in vascular endothelial function related to acute and long COVID-19.},
journal = {Vascular pharmacology},
volume = {154},
number = {},
pages = {107250},
doi = {10.1016/j.vph.2023.107250},
pmid = {38043758},
issn = {1879-3649},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/epidemiology ; Sex Characteristics ; *Vascular Diseases ; },
abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has been at the forefront of health sciences research since its emergence in China in 2019 that quickly led to a global pandemic. As a result of this research, and the large numbers of infected patients globally, there were rapid enhancements made in our understanding of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathology, including its role in the development of uncontrolled immune responses and its link to the development of endotheliitis and endothelial dysfunction. There were also some noted differences in the rate and severity of infection between males and females with acute COVID. Some individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 also experience long-COVID, an important hallmark symptom of this being Myalgic Encephalomyelitis-Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME-CFS), also experienced differently between males and females. The purpose of this review is to discuss the impact of sex on the vasculature during acute and long COVID-19, present any link between ME-CFS and endothelial dysfunction, and provide evidence for the relationship between ME-CFS and the immune system. We also will delineate biological sex differences observed in other post viral infections and, assess if sex differences exist in how the immune system responds to viral infection causing ME-CFS.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
*COVID-19
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/epidemiology
Sex Characteristics
*Vascular Diseases

@article {pmid38054899,
year = {2023},
author = {Chilosi, M and Doglioni, C and Ravaglia, C and Piciucchi, S and Dubini, A and Stefanizzi, L and Poletti, V},
title = {COVID-19. Biology, pathophysiology, and immunology: a pathologist view.},
journal = {Pathologica},
volume = {115},
number = {5},
pages = {248-256},
pmid = {38054899},
issn = {1591-951X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pathologists ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Biology ; },
abstract = {Even if the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has been declared over, several risks and clinical problems remain to be faced, including long-COVID sequelae and possible outbreaks of pathogenic variants. Intense research on COVID-19 has provided in these few years a striking amount of data covering different fields and disciplines, which can help to provide a knowledge shield against new potential infective spreads, and may also potentially be applied to other fields of medicine, including oncology and neurology. Nevertheless, areas of uncertainty still remain regarding the pathogenic mechanisms that subtend the multifaceted manifestations of the disease. To better clarify the pathogenesis of the disease, a systematic multidisciplinary evaluation of the many mechanisms involved in COVID-19 is mandatory, including clinical, physiological, radiological, immunological and pathological studies. In COVID-19 syndrome the pathological studies have been mainly performed on autopsy cases, and only a few studies are available on biopsies. Nevertheless, these studies have provided relevant information that can substantially contribute to decipher the complex scenario characterizing the different forms of COVID-19 and long-COVID-19. In this review the data provided by pathological investigations are recapitulated and discussed, in the light of different hypothesis and data provided by clinical, physiological and immunological data.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Pathologists
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Biology

@article {pmid38054902,
year = {2023},
author = {Olteanu, GE and Pezzuto, F and Lunardi, F and Fortarezza, F and Dubini, A and Calabrese, F},
title = {Exploring the pathologist's role in understanding COVID-19: from pneumonia to long-COVID lung sequelae.},
journal = {Pathologica},
volume = {115},
number = {5},
pages = {275-283},
pmid = {38054902},
issn = {1591-951X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Artificial Intelligence ; Pathologists ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pneumonia ; Lung/diagnostic imaging ; },
abstract = {The crucial role of pathologists in enhancing our understanding of SARS-CoV-2-related disease, from initial pneumonia manifestations to persistent long COVID lung symptoms, is the focus of this review. Pathological explorations have offered unprecedented insights into the early stages of severe COVID-19, shedding light on the interplay between the virus and subsequent complications, thereby shaping clinical approaches. Growing interest is directed to residual lung abnormalities of COVID-19 survivors. Although various radiological studies reported long-lasting pulmonary changes (e.g., ground glass opacities, reticulations, and bronchiectasis), the true incidence of pulmonary fibrosis and corresponding pathological findings in these patients remains largely unknown. There are a few high-impact and knowledgeable works on late complications in COVID-19 survivors, several coming from explant or autopsy cases, and rare cases from in vivo sampling. The study of biopsy samples has further deepened our knowledge of the aftermath of COVID-19 on lung tissue, uncovering alterations at the cellular level and shifts in vascular and epithelial dynamics. Despite the substantial progress made, future research is needed to devise a uniform strategy for interpreting lung biopsies, with a focus on leveraging advanced tools such as molecular and digital pathology techniques, along with artificial intelligence.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Artificial Intelligence
Pathologists
SARS-CoV-2
*Pneumonia
Lung/diagnostic imaging

@article {pmid38055113,
year = {2024},
author = {Rayner, DG and Wang, E and Su, C and Patel, OD and Aleluya, S and Giglia, A and Zhu, E and Siddique, M},
title = {Risk factors for long COVID in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {World journal of pediatrics : WJP},
volume = {20},
number = {2},
pages = {133-142},
pmid = {38055113},
issn = {1867-0687},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; Risk Factors ; Adolescent ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The long-term sequelae of COVID-19 in children and adolescents remain poorly understood and characterized. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to summarize the risk factors for long COVID in the pediatric population.

METHODS: We searched six databases from January 2020 to May 2023 for observational studies reporting on risk factors for long COVID or persistent symptoms those were present 12 or more weeks post-infection using multivariable regression analyses. Trial registries, reference lists of included studies, and preprint servers were hand-searched for relevant studies. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to pool odds ratios for each risk factor. Individual study risk of bias was rated using QUIPS, and the GRADE framework was used to assess the certainty of evidence for each unique factor.

RESULTS: Sixteen observational studies (N = 46,262) were included, and 19 risk factors were amenable to meta-analysis. With moderate certainty in the evidence, age (per 2-year increase), allergic rhinitis, obesity, previous respiratory diseases, hospitalization, severe acute COVID-19, and symptomatic acute COVID-19 are probably associated with an increased risk of long COVID. Female sex, asthma, comorbidity, and heart diseases may be associated with an increased risk of long COVID, and Asian and Black races may be associated with a decreased risk of long COVID. We did not observe any credible subgroup effects for any risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS: The current body of literature presents several compelling risk factors for the development of long COVID in the pediatric population. Further research is necessary to elucidate the pathophysiology of long COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
Risk Factors
Adolescent
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid38057315,
year = {2023},
author = {Liu, X and Xiong, W and Ye, M and Lu, T and Yuan, K and Chang, S and Han, Y and Wang, Y and Lu, L and Bao, Y},
title = {Non-coding RNAs expression in SARS-CoV-2 infection: pathogenesis, clinical significance, and therapeutic targets.},
journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {441},
pmid = {38057315},
issn = {2059-3635},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/genetics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Clinical Relevance ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; RNA, Untranslated/genetics ; Biomarkers ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been looming globally for three years, yet the diagnostic and treatment methods for COVID-19 are still undergoing extensive exploration, which holds paramount importance in mitigating future epidemics. Host non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) display aberrations in the context of COVID-19. Specifically, microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) exhibit a close association with viral infection and disease progression. In this comprehensive review, an overview was presented of the expression profiles of host ncRNAs following SARS-CoV-2 invasion and of the potential functions in COVID-19 development, encompassing viral invasion, replication, immune response, and multiorgan deficits which include respiratory system, cardiac system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system as well as long COVID. Furthermore, we provide an overview of several promising host ncRNA biomarkers for diverse clinical scenarios related to COVID-19, such as stratification biomarkers, prognostic biomarkers, and predictive biomarkers for treatment response. In addition, we also discuss the therapeutic potential of ncRNAs for COVID-19, presenting ncRNA-based strategies to facilitate the development of novel treatments. Through an in-depth analysis of the interplay between ncRNA and COVID-19 combined with our bioinformatic analysis, we hope to offer valuable insights into the stratification, prognosis, and treatment of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/genetics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Clinical Relevance
SARS-CoV-2/genetics
RNA, Untranslated/genetics
Biomarkers

@article {pmid38057338,
year = {2023},
author = {Frallonardo, L and Segala, FV and Chhaganlal, KD and Yelshazly, M and Novara, R and Cotugno, S and Guido, G and Papagni, R and Colpani, A and De Vito, A and Barbagallo, M and Madeddu, G and Babudieri, S and Lochoro, P and Ictho, J and Putoto, G and Veronese, N and Saracino, A and Di Gennaro, F},
title = {Incidence and burden of long COVID in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {21482},
pmid = {38057338},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Incidence ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; Africa/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Long COVID, also known as "post-acute sequelae of COVID-19," affects at least 65 million individuals worldwide with a wide spectrum of symptoms that may last weeks, months, or permanently. Its epidemiology and burden in Africa are unclear. This meta-analysis examines long-term COVID-19 effects in the WHO African Region. A systematic search in several databases was carried out up to 12 February 2023 including observational studies from African countries reporting the cumulative incidence of long COVID signs and symptoms. Only studies conducted in African countries were included. Several sensitivity and meta-regression analyses were performed. Among 1547 papers initially screened, 25 were included, consisting of 29,213 participants. The incidence of any long COVID symptomatology was 48.6% (95% CI 37.4-59.8) as psychiatric conditions were the most frequent, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder reaching a cumulative incidence of 25% (95% CI 21.1-30.4). Higher age (p = 0.027) and hospitalization (p = 0.05) were associated with a higher frequency of long COVID. Long COVID poses a significant burden in Africa, particularly concerning psychiatric conditions. The study recommends identifying at-risk people and defining treatment strategies and recommendations for African long-COVID patients. High-quality studies addressing this condition in African setting are urgently needed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Incidence
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
Africa/epidemiology

@article {pmid38063359,
year = {2023},
author = {Ghram, A and Latiri, I and Methnani, J and Souissi, A and Benzarti, W and Toulgui, E and Ben Saad, H},
title = {Effects of cardiorespiratory rehabilitation program on submaximal exercise in patients with long-COVID-19 conditions: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and recommendations for future studies.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {17},
number = {12},
pages = {1095-1124},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2023.2293226},
pmid = {38063359},
issn = {1747-6356},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiac Rehabilitation/methods ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation ; Exercise Therapy/methods ; *Exercise Tolerance ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Walk Test ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Long-COVID-19 patients (LC19Ps) often experience cardiovascular and respiratory complications. Cardiorespiratory rehabilitation programs (CRRPs) have emerged as promising interventions to enhance exercise capacity in this population. This systematic review aimed to assess the impact of CRRPs on submaximal exercise performance, specifically the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) outcomes, in LC19Ps through an analysis of available randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed/Medline and Scopus to identify relevant RCTs. Six RCTs meeting inclusion criteria were included in this review, investigating the effects of CRRPs on 6MWT outcomes in LC19Ps.

RESULTS: The findings from the included RCTs provide compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of CRRPs in improving submaximal exercise performance in LC19Ps. These results underscore the potential of CRRPs to enhance submaximal exercise capacity and overall functional well-being in this population. However, future research is imperative to determine optimal CRRPs, including duration, intensity, and specific intervention components. Additionally, the long-term sustainability and durability of CRRP-induced improvements warrant further exploration. Future studies should prioritize patient-centric outcomes and address potential implementation barriers.

CONCLUSION: CRRPs show promise in ameliorating submaximal exercise performance among LC19Ps. Further research is needed to refine these programs and ensure their lasting impact on this patient group.

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/HMN38. [Figure: see text].},
}

Humans
*Cardiac Rehabilitation/methods
*COVID-19/rehabilitation
Exercise Therapy/methods
*Exercise Tolerance
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
SARS-CoV-2
Walk Test

@article {pmid38063895,
year = {2024},
author = {Shil, RSK and Hughes, TW and Sargent, BF and Huang, Y and Tamborska, AA and Frank, B and Ellul, MA and Michael, BD},
title = {A clinical approach to the investigation and management of long COVID associated neuropathic pain.},
journal = {European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience},
volume = {274},
number = {8},
pages = {1787-1795},
pmid = {38063895},
issn = {1433-8491},
support = {MC_PC_19059/MRF/MRF/United Kingdom ; MR/V007181/1/MRF/MRF/United Kingdom ; MR/V03605X/1/MRF/MRF/United Kingdom ; ISSF201902/3/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; MR/V007181/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MR/T028750/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; NIHR133599//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; MC_PC_19059/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; /WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; MR/V03605X/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MRF-CPP-R2-2022-100003/MRF/MRF/United Kingdom ; MR/T028750/1/MRF/MRF/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Neuralgia/etiology/therapy ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 has been associated with a wide range of ongoing symptoms following recovery from the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Around one in three people with COVID-19 develop neurological symptoms with many reporting neuropathic pain and associated symptoms, including paraesthesia, numbness, and dysesthesia. Whilst the pathophysiology of long COVID-19-associated neuropathic pain remains unclear, it is likely to be multifactorial. Early identification, exclusion of common alternative causes, and a biopsychosocial approach to the management of the symptoms can help in relieving the burden of disease and improving the quality of life for patients.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Neuralgia/etiology/therapy
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid38068427,
year = {2023},
author = {Choi, YJ and Seo, YB and Seo, JW and Lee, J and Nham, E and Seong, H and Yoon, JG and Noh, JY and Cheong, HJ and Kim, WJ and Kim, EJ and Song, JY},
title = {Effectiveness of Antiviral Therapy on Long COVID: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {38068427},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {HD22C2045//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; },
abstract = {Antiviral treatment reduces the severity and mortality of SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, its effectiveness against long COVID-19 is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of antiviral drugs in preventing long COVID and related hospitalizations/deaths. Scientific and medical databases were searched from 1 January 2020 to 30 June 2023. We included observational cohort studies comparing individuals receiving early antiviral therapy for COVID-19 and those receiving supportive treatment. A fixed-effects model was used to merge the effects reported in two or more studies. The risk of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) was combined as an odds ratio (OR). Six studies were selected, including a total of 3,352,235 participants. The occurrence of PASC was 27.5% lower in patients who received antiviral drugs during the early stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 0.725; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.409-0.747) than in the supportive treatment group. Moreover, the risk of PASC-associated hospitalization and mortality was 29.7% lower in patients receiving early antiviral therapy than in the supportive treatment group (OR = 0.721; 95% CI = 0.697-0.794). Early antiviral therapy was associated with a reduced risk of PASC and related hospitalization or death. Thus, early antiviral therapy is recommended for at-risk individuals.},
}

@article {pmid38069140,
year = {2023},
author = {Pietraszko, P and Zorawski, M and Bielecka, E and Sielatycki, P and Zbroch, E},
title = {Mid-Regional Proadrenomedullin in COVID-19-May It Act as a Predictor of Prolonged Cardiovascular Complications?.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {24},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {38069140},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Biomarkers ; Adrenomedullin ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology ; Protein Precursors ; },
abstract = {The rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have both led to increased mortality rates, affecting public health and the global economy. Therefore, it is essential to find accessible, non-invasive prognostic markers capable of identifying patients at high risk. One encouraging avenue of exploration is the potential of mid-regional proadrenomedullin (MR-proADM) as a biomarker in various health conditions, especially in the context of CVD and COVID-19. MR-proADM presents the ability to predict mortality, heart failure, and adverse outcomes in CVD, offering promise for improved risk assessment and treatment strategies. On the other hand, an elevated MR-proADM level is associated with disease severity and cytokine storms in patients with COVID-19, making it a predictive indicator for intensive care unit admissions and mortality rates. Moreover, MR-proADM may have relevance in long COVID, aiding in the risk assessment, triage, and monitoring of individuals at increased risk of developing prolonged cardiac issues. Our review explores the potential of MR-proADM as a predictor of enduring cardiovascular complications following COVID-19 infection.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Biomarkers
Adrenomedullin
*Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology
Protein Precursors

@article {pmid38069362,
year = {2023},
author = {Scheim, DE and Vottero, P and Santin, AD and Hirsh, AG},
title = {Sialylated Glycan Bindings from SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein to Blood and Endothelial Cells Govern the Severe Morbidities of COVID-19.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {24},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {38069362},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {UL1 TR001863/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Endothelial Cells/metabolism ; *Common Cold ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Polysaccharides/metabolism ; Morbidity ; Hypoxia ; Mammals/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Consistent with well-established biochemical properties of coronaviruses, sialylated glycan attachments between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) and host cells are key to the virus's pathology. SARS-CoV-2 SP attaches to and aggregates red blood cells (RBCs), as shown in many pre-clinical and clinical studies, causing pulmonary and extrapulmonary microthrombi and hypoxia in severe COVID-19 patients. SARS-CoV-2 SP attachments to the heavily sialylated surfaces of platelets (which, like RBCs, have no ACE2) and endothelial cells (having minimal ACE2) compound this vascular damage. Notably, experimentally induced RBC aggregation in vivo causes the same key morbidities as for severe COVID-19, including microvascular occlusion, blood clots, hypoxia and myocarditis. Key risk factors for COVID-19 morbidity, including older age, diabetes and obesity, are all characterized by markedly increased propensity to RBC clumping. For mammalian species, the degree of clinical susceptibility to COVID-19 correlates to RBC aggregability with p = 0.033. Notably, of the five human betacoronaviruses, the two common cold strains express an enzyme that releases glycan attachments, while the deadly SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS do not, although viral loads for COVID-19 and the two common cold infections are similar. These biochemical insights also explain the previously puzzling clinical efficacy of certain generics against COVID-19 and may support the development of future therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 and long COVID patients.},
}

Animals
Humans
*COVID-19
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Endothelial Cells/metabolism
*Common Cold
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Polysaccharides/metabolism
Morbidity
Hypoxia
Mammals/metabolism

@article {pmid38083997,
year = {2024},
author = {Collins, E and Philippe, E and Gravel, CA and Hawken, S and Langlois, MA and Little, J},
title = {Serological markers and long COVID-A rapid systematic review.},
journal = {European journal of clinical investigation},
volume = {54},
number = {4},
pages = {e14149},
doi = {10.1111/eci.14149},
pmid = {38083997},
issn = {1365-2362},
support = {//CIHR/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/blood ; *Immunoglobulin G/blood/immunology ; *Biomarkers/blood ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID is highly heterogeneous, often debilitating, and may last for years after infection. The aetiology of long COVID remains uncertain. Examination of potential serological markers of long COVID, accounting for clinical covariates, may yield emergent pathophysiological insights.

METHODS: In adherence to PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a rapid review of the literature. We searched Medline and Embase for primary observational studies that compared IgG response in individuals who experienced COVID-19 symptoms persisting ≥12 weeks post-infection with those who did not. We examined relationships between serological markers and long COVID status and investigated sources of inter-study variability, such as severity of acute illness, long COVID symptoms assessed and target antigen(s).

RESULTS: Of 8018 unique records, we identified 29 as being eligible for inclusion in synthesis. Definitions of long COVID varied. In studies that reported anti-nucleocapsid (N) IgG (n = 10 studies; n = 989 participants in aggregate), full or partial anti-Spike IgG (i.e. the whole trimer, S1 or S2 subgroups, or receptor binding domain, n = 19 studies; n = 2606 participants), or neutralizing response (n = 7 studies; n = 1123 participants), we did not find strong evidence to support any difference in serological markers between groups with and without persisting symptoms. However, most studies did not account for severity or level of care required during acute illness, and other potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS: Pooling of studies would enable more robust exploration of clinical and serological predictors among diverse populations. However, substantial inter-study variations hamper comparability. Standardized reporting practices would improve the quality, consistency and comprehension of study findings.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/blood
*Immunoglobulin G/blood/immunology
*Biomarkers/blood
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Antibodies, Viral/blood
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology

@article {pmid38091027,
year = {2024},
author = {Rana, P and Patial, S and Soni, V and Singh, P and Khosla, A and Thakur, S and Hussaisn, CM and de Carvalho Nagliate, P and Meili, L and Selvasembian, R and Raizada, P},
title = {"Long COVID" and Its Impact on The Environment: Emerging Concerns and Perspectives.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {73},
number = {3},
pages = {471-480},
pmid = {38091027},
issn = {1432-1009},
mesh = {Humans ; *Air Pollution/analysis ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented global health and economic crises. The emergence of long COVID-19 has raised concerns about the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 infections, climate change, and the environment. In this context, a concise analysis of the potential long-term effects of the COVID-19 epidemic along with the awareness aboutenvironmental issues are realized. While COVID-19 effects in the short-term have reduced environmental air pollutants and pressures, CO2 emissions are projected to increase as the economy recovers and growth rates return to pre-COVID-19 levels. This review discusses the systematic effects of both the short-term and long-term effects of the pandemic on the clean energy revolution and environmental issues. This article also discusses opportunities to achieve long-term environmental benefits and emphasizes the importance of future policies in promoting global environmental sustainability. Future directions for growth and recovery are presented to cope with long COVID-19 epidemic along with the critical findings focussing on various aspects: waste management, air quality improvement.},
}

Humans
*Air Pollution/analysis
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Pandemics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid38098317,
year = {2024},
author = {El-Baky, NA and Amara, AA and Uversky, VN and Redwan, EM},
title = {Intrinsic factors behind long COVID: III. Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and its components.},
journal = {Journal of cellular biochemistry},
volume = {125},
number = {1},
pages = {22-44},
doi = {10.1002/jcb.30514},
pmid = {38098317},
issn = {1097-4644},
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intrinsic Factor ; *COVID-19 ; RNA, Viral/genetics ; },
abstract = {Considerable research has been done in investigating SARS-CoV-2 infection, its characteristics, and host immune response. However, debate is still ongoing over the emergence of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). A multitude of long-lasting symptoms have been reported several weeks after the primary acute SARS-CoV-2 infection that resemble several other viral infections. Thousands of research articles have described various post-COVID-19 conditions. Yet, the evidence around these ongoing health problems, the reasons behind them, and their molecular underpinnings are scarce. These persistent symptoms are also known as long COVID-19. The persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and/or its components in host tissues can lead to long COVID. For example, the presence of viral nucleocapsid protein and RNA was detected in the skin, appendix, and breast tissues of some long COVID patients. The persistence of viral RNA was reported in multiple anatomic sites, including non-respiratory tissues such as the adrenal gland, ocular tissue, small intestine, lymph nodes, myocardium, and sciatic nerve. Distinctive viral spike sequence variants were also found in non-respiratory tissues. Interestingly, prolonged detection of viral subgenomic RNA was observed across all tissues, sometimes in multiple tissues of the same patient, which likely reflects recent but defective viral replication. Moreover, the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was noticed throughout the brain at autopsy, as late as 230 days following symptom onset among unvaccinated patients who died of severe infection. Here, we review the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and its components as an intrinsic factor behind long COVID. We also highlight the immunological consequences of this viral persistence.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Intrinsic Factor
*COVID-19
RNA, Viral/genetics

@article {pmid38113020,
year = {2024},
author = {Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C and Torres-Macho, J and Catahay, JA and Macasaet, R and Velasco, JV and Macapagal, S and Caldararo, M and Henry, BM and Lippi, G and Franco-Moreno, A and Notarte, KI},
title = {Is antiviral treatment at the acute phase of COVID-19 effective for decreasing the risk of long-COVID? A systematic review.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {43-58},
pmid = {38113020},
issn = {1439-0973},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Ritonavir ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Dexamethasone/therapeutic use ; *Metformin ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Preliminary evidence suggests a potential effect of antiviral medication used during the acute COVID-19 phase for preventing long-COVID. This review investigates if having received pharmacological treatment during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection may reduce the risk of long-COVID.

METHODS: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science databases, as well as medRxiv/bioRxiv preprint servers were searched up to July 15th, 2023. Articles comparing the presence of long-COVID symptoms between individuals who received or not a specific medication, particularly antivirals, during the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale or Cochrane's Risk of Bias (Rob) tool.

RESULTS: From 517 studies identified, 6 peer-reviewed studies and one preprint met all inclusion criteria. The sample included 2683 (n = 4) hospitalized COVID-19 survivors and 307,409 (n = 3) non-hospitalized patients. The methodological quality was high in 71% of studies (n = 5/7). Two studies investigating the effects of Nirmaltrevir/Ritonavir and three studies the effect of Remdesivir reported conflicting results on effectiveness for preventing long-COVID. Three studies investigating the effects of other medication such as Dexamethasone (n = 2) or Metformin (n = 1) found positive results of these medications for preventing long-COVID.

CONCLUSION: Available evidence about the effect of medication treatment with antivirals during acute COVID-19 and reduced risk of developing long-COVID is conflicting. Heterogeneous evidence suggests that Remdesivir or Nirmaltrevir/Ritonavir could have a potential protective effect for long-COVID. A limited number of studies demonstrated a potential benefit of other medications such as Dexamethasone or Metformin, but more studies are needed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Ritonavir
SARS-CoV-2
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Dexamethasone/therapeutic use
*Metformin

@article {pmid38117308,
year = {2024},
author = {da Silva, LNM and Filho, AGO and Guimarães, JB},
title = {Musculoskeletal manifestations of COVID-19.},
journal = {Skeletal radiology},
volume = {53},
number = {10},
pages = {2009-2022},
pmid = {38117308},
issn = {1432-2161},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnostic imaging ; *Musculoskeletal Diseases/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected millions of people worldwide, with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) being the most common severe condition of pulmonary involvement. Despite its involvement in the lungs, SARS-CoV-2 causes multiple extrapulmonary manifestations, including manifestations in the musculoskeletal system. Several cases involving bone, joint, muscle, neurovascular and soft tissues were reported shortly after pandemic onset. Even after the acute infection has resolved, many patients experience persistent symptoms and a decrease in quality of life, a condition known as post-COVID syndrome or long COVID. COVID-19 vaccines have been widely available since December 2020, preventing millions of deaths during the pandemic. However, adverse reactions, including those involving the musculoskeletal system, have been reported in the literature. Therefore, the primary goal of this article is to review the main imaging findings of SARS-CoV-2 involvement in the musculoskeletal system, including acute, subacute, chronic and postvaccination manifestations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/diagnostic imaging
*Musculoskeletal Diseases/diagnostic imaging/etiology
*SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid38123233,
year = {2023},
author = {Singh, SJ and Daynes, E and McAuley, HJC and Raman, B and Greening, NJ and Chalder, T and Elneima, O and Evans, RA and Bolton, CE},
title = {Balancing the value and risk of exercise-based therapy post-COVID-19: a narrative review.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {32},
number = {170},
pages = {},
pmid = {38123233},
issn = {1600-0617},
support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Exercise Therapy/adverse effects ; Exercise ; Fatigue ; Dyspnea ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can lead to ongoing symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue and muscle pain, which can have a substantial impact on an individual. Exercise-based rehabilitation programmes have proven beneficial in many long-term conditions that share similar symptoms. These programmes have favourably influenced breathlessness, fatigue and pain, while also increasing functional capacity. Exercise-based rehabilitation may benefit those with ongoing symptoms following COVID-19. However, some precautions may be necessary prior to embarking on an exercise programme. Areas of concern include ongoing complex lung pathologies, such as fibrosis, cardiovascular abnormalities and fatigue, and concerns regarding post-exertional symptom exacerbation. This article addresses these concerns and proposes that an individually prescribed, symptom-titrated exercise-based intervention may be of value to individuals following infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Exercise Therapy/adverse effects
Exercise
Fatigue
Dyspnea

@article {pmid38124476,
year = {2024},
author = {Shetty, AJ and Banerjee, M and Prasad, TN and Bhadada, SK and Pal, R},
title = {Do vitamin D levels or supplementation play A role in COVID-19 outcomes?-a narrative review.},
journal = {Annals of palliative medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {162-177},
doi = {10.21037/apm-23-113},
pmid = {38124476},
issn = {2224-5839},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Dietary Supplements ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vitamin D/therapeutic use ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/complications ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Hypovitaminosis D has been proposed as a risk factor for increased susceptibility to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and severe outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Likewise, vitamin D supplementation has been proposed as an effective means for preventing and improving clinical outcomes in COVID-19. Nevertheless, available data are markedly inconsistent and contradictory. Considering the heterogeneity in the available clinical evidence, we planned to undertake a narrative review and provide a precise summary of the role of vitamin D in COVID-19.

METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE database was searched from inception till September 30, 2023 using appropriate MeSH terms. The initial search revealed 900 results. Thereafter, titles and abstracts were scanned and commentaries, letters, and editorials were excluded. Relevant observational studies and clinical trials/randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were full-text assessed and pertinent data were extracted for this narrative review.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: Data from observational and ecological studies suggest that hypovitaminosis D is associated with a higher risk of acquiring COVID-19. Similarly, evidence support a negative association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and COVID-19 severity, nevertheless, causality remains to be established. With regard to vitamin D supplementation and COVID-19-related health outcomes, data from observational studies and RCTs are contradictory. Even in moderate-to-severe/severe COVID-19, vitamin D supplementation has not been shown to be beneficial. Besides, data suggest that vitamin D levels might alter COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and be associated with long COVID.

CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection and poor COVID-19 prognosis, however, available evidence with regard to improved clinical outcomes with vitamin D supplementation is inconsistent.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Dietary Supplements
SARS-CoV-2
Vitamin D/therapeutic use
*Vitamin D Deficiency/complications

@article {pmid38126937,
year = {2024},
author = {Razzaq, A and Disoma, C and Zhou, Y and Tao, S and Chen, Z and Liu, S and Zheng, R and Zhang, Y and Liao, Y and Chen, X and Liu, S and Dong, Z and Xu, L and Deng, X and Li, S and Xia, Z},
title = {Targeting epidermal growth factor receptor signalling pathway: A promising therapeutic option for COVID-19.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {34},
number = {1},
pages = {e2500},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.2500},
pmid = {38126937},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *ErbB Receptors/genetics/metabolism ; Erlotinib Hydrochloride/therapeutic use ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Pulmonary Fibrosis/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; *Signal Transduction/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is continuously producing new variants, necessitating effective therapeutics. Patients are not only confronted by the immediate symptoms of infection but also by the long-term health issues linked to long COVID-19. Activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signalling during SARS-CoV-2 infection promotes virus propagation, mucus hyperproduction, and pulmonary fibrosis, and suppresses the host's antiviral response. Over the long term, EGFR activation in COVID-19, particularly in COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis, may be linked to the development of lung cancer. In this review, we have summarised the significance of EGFR signalling in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also discussed the targeting of EGFR signalling as a promising strategy for COVID-19 treatment and highlighted erlotinib as a superior option among EGFR inhibitors. Erlotinib effectively blocks EGFR and AAK1, thereby preventing SARS-CoV-2 replication, reducing mucus hyperproduction, TNF-α expression, and enhancing the host's antiviral response. Nevertheless, to evaluate the antiviral efficacy of erlotinib, relevant clinical trials involving an appropriate patient population should be designed.},
}

Humans
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*ErbB Receptors/genetics/metabolism
Erlotinib Hydrochloride/therapeutic use
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Pulmonary Fibrosis/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
*Signal Transduction/drug effects

@article {pmid38128935,
year = {2023},
author = {Fyffe, I and Sorensen, J and Carroll, S and MacPhee, M and Andrews-Paul, A and Crooks, VA and Freeman, S and Davison, K and Walls, J and Berndt, A and Shams, B and Sivan, M and Mithani, A},
title = {Long COVID in long-term care: a rapid realist review.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {13},
number = {12},
pages = {e076186},
pmid = {38128935},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; Delivery of Health Care ; Long-Term Care ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The goals of this rapid realist review were to ask: (a) what are the key mechanisms that drive successful interventions for long COVID in long-term care (LTC) and (b) what are the critical contexts that determine whether the mechanisms produce the intended outcomes?

DESIGN: Rapid realist review.

DATA SOURCES: Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO and Web of Science for peer-reviewed literature and Google for grey literature were searched up to 23 February 2023.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included sources focused on interventions, persons in LTC, long COVID or post-acute phase at least 4 weeks following initial COVID-19 infection and ones that had a connection with source materials.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Three independent reviewers searched, screened and coded studies. Two independent moderators resolved conflicts. A data extraction tool organised relevant data into context-mechanism-outcome configurations using realist methodology. Twenty-one sources provided 51 intervention data excerpts used to develop our programme theory. Synthesised findings were presented to a reference group and expert panel for confirmatory purposes.

RESULTS: Fifteen peer-reviewed articles and six grey literature sources were eligible for inclusion. Eleven context-mechanism-outcome configurations identify those contextual factors and underlying mechanisms associated with desired outcomes, such as clinical care processes and policies that ensure timely access to requisite resources for quality care delivery, and resident-centred assessments and care planning to address resident preferences and needs. The underlying mechanisms associated with enhanced outcomes for LTC long COVID survivors were: awareness, accountability, vigilance and empathetic listening.

CONCLUSIONS: Although the LTC sector struggles with organisational capacity issues, they should be aware that comprehensively assessing and monitoring COVID-19 survivors and providing timely interventions to those with long COVID is imperative. This is due to the greater care needs of residents with long COVID, and coordinated efficient care is required to optimise their quality of life.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy
Delivery of Health Care
Long-Term Care
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Quality of Life

@article {pmid38131885,
year = {2023},
author = {Sideratou, CM and Papaneophytou, C},
title = {Persisting Shadows: Unraveling the Impact of Long COVID-19 on Respiratory, Cardiovascular, and Nervous Systems.},
journal = {Infectious disease reports},
volume = {15},
number = {6},
pages = {806-830},
pmid = {38131885},
issn = {2036-7430},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), instigated by the zoonotic Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), rapidly transformed from an outbreak in Wuhan, China, into a widespread global pandemic. A significant post-infection condition, known as 'long- COVID-19' (or simply 'long- COVID'), emerges in a substantial subset of patients, manifesting with a constellation of over 200 reported symptoms that span multiple organ systems. This condition, also known as 'post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection' (PASC), presents a perplexing clinical picture with far-reaching implications, often persisting long after the acute phase. While initial research focused on the immediate pulmonary impact of the virus, the recognition of COVID-19 as a multiorgan disruptor has unveiled a gamut of protracted and severe health issues. This review summarizes the primary effects of long COVID on the respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. It also delves into the mechanisms underlying these impacts and underscores the critical need for a comprehensive understanding of long COVID's pathogenesis.},
}

@article {pmid38132646,
year = {2023},
author = {Zimmermann, P and Sourij, H and Aberer, F and Rilstone, S and Schierbauer, J and Moser, O},
title = {SGLT2 Inhibitors in Long COVID Syndrome: Is There a Potential Role?.},
journal = {Journal of cardiovascular development and disease},
volume = {10},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {38132646},
issn = {2308-3425},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 has turned into a pandemic causing a global public health crisis. While acute COVID-19 mainly affects the respiratory system and can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome, an association with persistent inflammatory stress affecting different organ systems has been elucidated in long COVID syndrome (LCS). Increased severity and mortality rates have been reported due to cardiophysiological and metabolic systemic disorders as well as multiorgan failure in COVID-19, additionally accompanied by chronic dyspnea and fatigue in LCS. Hence, novel therapies have been tested to improve the outcomes of LCS of which one potential candidate might be sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. The aim of this narrative review was to discuss rationales for investigating SGLT2 inhibitor therapy in people suffering from LCS. In this regard, we discuss their potential positive effects-next to the well described "cardio-renal-metabolic" conditions-with a focus on potential anti-inflammatory and beneficial systemic effects in LCS. However, potential beneficial as well as potential disadvantageous effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on the prevalence and long-term outcomes of COVID-19 will need to be established in ongoing research.},
}

@article {pmid38138102,
year = {2023},
author = {Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C and Raveendran, AV and Giordano, R and Arendt-Nielsen, L},
title = {Long COVID or Post-COVID-19 Condition: Past, Present and Future Research Directions.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {11},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {38138102},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The presence of symptoms after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection (long-COVID) has become a worldwide healthcare emergency but remains underestimated and undertreated due to a lack of recognition of the condition and knowledge of the underlying mechanisms. In fact, the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms ranges from 50% during the first months after the infection up to 20% two-years after. This perspective review aimed to map the existing literature on post-COVID symptoms and to identify gaps in the literature to guide the global effort toward an improved understanding of long-COVID and suggest future research directions. There is a plethora of symptomatology that can be due to COVID-19; however, today, there is no clear classification and definition of this condition, termed long-COVID or post-COVID-19 condition. The heterogeneity in the symptomatology has led to the presence of groups/clusters of patients, which could exhibit different risk factors and different mechanisms. Viral persistence, long-lasting inflammation, immune dysregulation, autoimmune reactions, reactivation of latent infections, endothelial dysfunction and alteration in gut microbiota have been proposed as potential mechanisms explaining the complexity of long-COVID. In such an equation, viral biology (e.g., re-infections, SARS-CoV-2 variants), host biology (e.g., genetics, epigenetics) and external factors (e.g., vaccination) should be also considered. These various factors will be discussed in the current perspective review and future directions suggested.},
}

@article {pmid38139027,
year = {2023},
author = {Ailioaie, LM and Ailioaie, C and Litscher, G},
title = {Gut Microbiota and Mitochondria: Health and Pathophysiological Aspects of Long COVID.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {24},
number = {24},
pages = {},
pmid = {38139027},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Inflammation ; Dysbiosis ; },
abstract = {The current understanding of long COVID (LC) is still limited. This review highlights key findings regarding the role of gut microbiota, mitochondria, and the main pathophysiological aspects of LC revealed by clinical studies, related to the complex interplay between infection, intestinal dysbiosis, dysfunctional mitochondria, and systemic inflammation generated in a vicious circle, reflecting the molecular and cellular processes from the "leaky gut" to the "leaky electron transport chain (ETC)" into a quantum leap. The heterogeneity of LC has hindered progress in deciphering all the pathophysiological mechanisms, and therefore, the approach must be multidisciplinary, with a special focus not only on symptomatic management but also on addressing the underlying health problems of the patients. It is imperative to further assess and validate the effects of COVID-19 and LC on the gut microbiome and their relationship to infections with other viral agents or pathogens. Further studies are needed to better understand LC and expand the interdisciplinary points of view that are required to accurately diagnose and effectively treat this heterogeneous condition. Given the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to induce autoimmunity in susceptible patients, they should be monitored for symptoms of autoimmune disease after contracting the viral infection. One question remains open, namely, whether the various vaccines developed to end the pandemic will also induce autoimmunity. Recent data highlighted in this review have revealed that the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and dysfunctional mitochondria in organs such as the heart and, to a lesser extent, the kidneys, liver, and lymph nodes, long after the organism has been able to clear the virus from the lungs, could be an explanation for LC.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Inflammation
Dysbiosis

@article {pmid38139400,
year = {2023},
author = {Gostimirovic, M and Rajkovic, J and Bukarica, A and Simanovic, J and Gojkovic-Bukarica, L},
title = {Resveratrol and Gut Microbiota Synergy: Preventive and Therapeutic Effects.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {24},
number = {24},
pages = {},
pmid = {38139400},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {NA//Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovations of Republic of Serbia/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Resveratrol/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Noncommunicable Diseases ; Quality of Life ; Diet, High-Fat ; *COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {The role of an imbalanced high-fat diet in the pathophysiology of common chronic noncommunicable diseases has been known for years. More recently, the concept of 'gut microbiota' and the interaction between their composition and gut metabolites produced from the intake of dietary products have gained the focus of researchers, mostly from the perspective of the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, which are still the leading cause of death globally. The aim of this work is to highlight the health benefits of the interaction between resveratrol (RSV), red grape polyphenol, and gut microbiota, through aspects of their therapeutic and preventive potentials. Since changed microbiota (mostly as a consequence of antibiotic overuse) contribute to the persistence of post ('long')-COVID-19 symptoms, these aspects will be covered too. Data were obtained from the electronic databases (MedLine/PubMed), according to specific keywords regarding the protective role of resveratrol, the gut microbiota, and their synergy. RSV exerts beneficial properties in the modulation of cardiovascular, metabolic, and post-COVID-19-related disorders. In healthy individuals, it maintains an ergogenic capacity, prevents oxidative stress, and modulates the inflammatory response. Overall, it improves quality of life. The RSV-gut-microbiota interaction is beneficial in terms of maintaining human health. Along with physical activity, it is key for the prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases.},
}

Humans
Resveratrol/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Noncommunicable Diseases
Quality of Life
Diet, High-Fat
*COVID-19

@article {pmid38140991,
year = {2024},
author = {Brigido, S and Manes, MT and Ingianni, N and Lanni, F and Cutolo, A and La Rovere, MT and Pavan, D and , },
title = {[Gender cardiology: focus on clinical and pathophysiological peculiarities in women with long COVID syndrome].},
journal = {Giornale italiano di cardiologia (2006)},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {6-13},
doi = {10.1714/4165.41585},
pmid = {38140991},
issn = {1972-6481},
mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; *Cardiovascular System ; *Cardiology ; *Vascular Diseases ; },
abstract = {Long COVID is a clinical syndrome characterized by the persistence or development of symptoms due to COVID-19 at least 12 weeks after initial infection. More than 200 different symptoms have been ascribed to long COVID, the most common being fatigue, shortness of breath, and muscle weakness. Women have a three-fold higher risk of being diagnosed with long COVID, and the symptoms more often described are persistent weakness, chest pain, altered smell and taste, palpitations or muscle pain, as well as neurological, gastrointestinal and rheumatologic symptoms. Long COVID features are influenced by immune function, endothelial dysfunction and sex hormones. Moreover, it leads to systemic dysfunction, so various therapeutic strategies have been explored and still different trials are ongoing, mainly regarding anticoagulation and immuno-modulators. Nowadays the most quoted interventions are focused rehabilitation programs and pharmacological selected treatments in specifical cases. The aim of this review will be focusing the clinical and pathophysiological sex-related peculiarities to understand the different long COVID phenotypes and possibly address a better tailored approach and treatment.},
}

Female
Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
*Cardiovascular System
*Cardiology
*Vascular Diseases

@article {pmid38143784,
year = {2023},
author = {Peterson, BM and Unger, I and Sun, S and Park, JY and Kim, J and Gunasekera, RS and Wilson, J and Galbadage, T},
title = {The vital role of exercise and nutrition in COVID-19 rehabilitation: synergizing strength.},
journal = {Frontiers in sports and active living},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1305175},
pmid = {38143784},
issn = {2624-9367},
abstract = {Since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global healthcare community has faced the challenge of understanding and addressing the ongoing and multi-faceted SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes. As millions of individuals worldwide continue to navigate the complexities of post-hospitalization recovery, reinfection rates, and the increasing prevalence of Long-COVID symptoms, comprehensive COVID-19 rehabilitation strategies are greatly needed. Previous studies have highlighted the potential synergy between exercise and nutrition, suggesting that their integration into patient rehabilitation programs may yield improved clinical outcomes for survivors of COVID-19. Our group aimed to consolidate existing knowledge following the implementation of patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome (PICO) search strategies on the distinct and combined impacts of exercise and nutrition interventions in facilitating the recovery of COVID-19 patients following hospitalization, with a specific focus on their implications for both public health and clinical practice. The incorporation of targeted nutritional strategies alongside exercise-based programs may expedite patient recovery, ultimately promoting independence in performing activities of daily living (ADLs). Nonetheless, an imperative for expanded scientific inquiry remains, particularly in the realm of combined interventions. This mini-review underscores the compelling prospects offered by an amalgamated approach, advocating for the seamless integration of exercise and nutrition as integral components of post-hospitalization COVID-19 rehabilitation. The pursuit of a comprehensive understanding of the synergistic effects and effectiveness of exercise and nutrition stands as a crucial objective in advancing patient care and refining recovery strategies in the wake of this enduring global health crisis.},
}

@article {pmid38156008,
year = {2023},
author = {He, KY and Lei, XY and Zhang, L and Wu, DH and Li, JQ and Lu, LY and Laila, UE and Cui, CY and Xu, ZX and Jian, YP},
title = {Development and management of gastrointestinal symptoms in long-term COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1278479},
pmid = {38156008},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Emerging evidence reveals that SARS-CoV-2 possesses the capability to disrupt the gastrointestinal (GI) homeostasis, resulting in the long-term symptoms such as loss of appetite, diarrhea, gastroesophageal reflux, and nausea. In the current review, we summarized recent reports regarding the long-term effects of COVID-19 (long COVID) on the gastrointestine.

OBJECTIVE: To provide a narrative review of abundant clinical evidence regarding the development and management of long-term GI symptoms in COVID-19 patients.

RESULTS: Long-term persistent digestive symptoms are exhibited in a majority of long-COVID patients. SARS-CoV-2 infection of intestinal epithelial cells, cytokine storm, gut dysbiosis, therapeutic drugs, psychological factors and exacerbation of primary underlying diseases lead to long-term GI symptoms in COVID-19 patients. Interventions like probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and antibiotics are proved to be beneficial in preserving intestinal microecological homeostasis and alleviating GI symptoms.

CONCLUSION: Timely diagnosis and treatment of GI symptoms in long-COVID patients hold great significance as they may contribute to the mitigation of severe conditions and ultimately lead to the improvement of outcomes of the patients.},
}

@article {pmid38159046,
year = {2024},
author = {Lui, KO and Ma, Z and Dimmeler, S},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 induced vascular endothelial dysfunction: direct or indirect effects?.},
journal = {Cardiovascular research},
volume = {120},
number = {1},
pages = {34-43},
doi = {10.1093/cvr/cvad191},
pmid = {38159046},
issn = {1755-3245},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; *COVID-19 ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Endothelial Cells/metabolism ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism ; *Vascular Diseases ; Mammals/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Clinical evidence reveals that manifestations of endothelial dysfunction are widely observed in COVID-19 and long-COVID patients. However, whether these detrimental effects are caused by direct infection of the endothelium or are indirectly mediated by systemic inflammation has been a matter of debate. It has been well acknowledged that endothelial cells (ECs) of the cardiovascular system ubiquitously express the SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), yet accumulating evidence suggests that it is more predominantly expressed by pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells of the mammalian blood vessel. Besides, replicative infection of ECs by SARS-CoV-2 has yet to be demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we review latest research on endothelial ACE2 expression in different vascular beds, and the heterogeneity in various EC subsets with differential ACE2 expression in response to SARS-CoV-2. We also discuss ACE2-independent alternative mechanisms underlying endothelial activation in COVID-19, and the clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2-induced endothelial dysfunction. Altogether, understanding ACE2-dependent and ACE2-independent mechanisms driving SARS-CoV-2-induced vascular dysfunction would shed light on strategies of more effective therapies targeting cardiovascular complications associated with COVID-19.},
}

Animals
Humans
SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
*COVID-19
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Endothelial Cells/metabolism
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism
*Vascular Diseases
Mammals/metabolism

@article {pmid38163814,
year = {2024},
author = {Fedorowski, A and Fanciulli, A and Raj, SR and Sheldon, R and Shibao, CA and Sutton, R},
title = {Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in post-COVID-19 syndrome: a major health-care burden.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Cardiology},
volume = {21},
number = {6},
pages = {379-395},
pmid = {38163814},
issn = {1759-5010},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology/epidemiology ; *Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/physiopathology/etiology/diagnosis ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/physiopathology/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction (CVAD) is a malfunction of the cardiovascular system caused by deranged autonomic control of circulatory homeostasis. CVAD is an important component of post-COVID-19 syndrome, also termed long COVID, and might affect one-third of highly symptomatic patients with COVID-19. The effects of CVAD can be seen at both the whole-body level, with impairment of heart rate and blood pressure control, and in specific body regions, typically manifesting as microvascular dysfunction. Many severely affected patients with long COVID meet the diagnostic criteria for two common presentations of CVAD: postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and inappropriate sinus tachycardia. CVAD can also manifest as disorders associated with hypotension, such as orthostatic or postprandial hypotension, and recurrent reflex syncope. Advances in research, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have identified new potential pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic methods and therapeutic targets in CVAD. For clinicians who daily see patients with CVAD, knowledge of its symptomatology, detection and appropriate management is more important than ever. In this Review, we define CVAD and its major forms that are encountered in post-COVID-19 syndrome, describe possible CVAD aetiologies, and discuss how CVAD, as a component of post-COVID-19 syndrome, can be diagnosed and managed. Moreover, we outline directions for future research to discover more efficient ways to cope with this prevalent and long-lasting condition.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology/epidemiology
*Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/physiopathology/etiology/diagnosis
*Cardiovascular Diseases/physiopathology/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid38169007,
year = {2024},
author = {Munro, APS and Jones, CE and Faust, SN},
title = {Vaccination against COVID-19 - risks and benefits in children.},
journal = {European journal of pediatrics},
volume = {183},
number = {3},
pages = {1107-1112},
pmid = {38169007},
issn = {1432-1076},
mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Child ; Humans ; Male ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/complications ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *Myocarditis/etiology ; Risk Assessment ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Syndrome ; *Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Countries in Europe and around the world have taken varying approaches to their policies on COVID-19 vaccination for children. The low risk of severe illness from COVID-19 means that even small risks from vaccination warrant careful consideration. Vaccination appears to result in a decreased risk of severe illness including the paediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome known to be associated with COVID-19. These risks have already decreased significantly with the emergence of the Omicron variant and its subvariants, and due to widespread population immunity through previous infection. There is a relatively high risk of myocarditis following second doses of mRNA vaccines in adolescent males, although the general course of this condition appears mild. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccination only provides a transient reduction in transmission. Currently, insufficient evidence exists to determine the impact of vaccination on post-acute COVID syndromes in children, which are uncommon. What is Known: • Vaccines against COVID-19 have significantly reduced morbidity and mortality around the world. • Whilst countries have universally recommended vaccines for adults and continue to recommend them for vulnerable populations, there has been more variability in recommendations for children. What is New: • In the setting of near universal existing immunity from infection, the majority of the initial benefit in protecting against severe illness has been eroded. • The risks of myocarditis following mRNA vaccination for children is low, but an important consideration given the modest benefits.},
}

Adolescent
Adult
Child
Humans
Male
*COVID-19/prevention & control/complications
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*Myocarditis/etiology
Risk Assessment
SARS-CoV-2
Syndrome
*Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Vaccination/adverse effects

@article {pmid38172332,
year = {2024},
author = {Helbing, DL and Dommaschk, EM and Danyeli, LV and Liepinsh, E and Refisch, A and Sen, ZD and Zvejniece, L and Rocktäschel, T and Stabenow, LK and Schiöth, HB and Walter, M and Dambrova, M and Besteher, B},
title = {Conceptual foundations of acetylcarnitine supplementation in neuropsychiatric long COVID syndrome: a narrative review.},
journal = {European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience},
volume = {274},
number = {8},
pages = {1829-1845},
pmid = {38172332},
issn = {1433-8491},
support = {857394 (FAT4BRAIN)//Horizon 2020 Framework Programme/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Acetylcarnitine/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Dietary Supplements ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 can present as multi-organ pathology, with neuropsychiatric symptoms being the most common symptom complex, characterizing long COVID as a syndrome with a significant disease burden for affected individuals. Several typical symptoms of long COVID, such as fatigue, depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment, are also key features of other psychiatric disorders such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and major depressive disorder (MDD). However, clinically successful treatment strategies are still lacking and are often inspired by treatment options for diseases with similar clinical presentations, such as ME/CFS. Acetylcarnitine, the shortest metabolite of a class of fatty acid metabolites called acylcarnitines and one of the most abundant blood metabolites in humans can be used as a dietary/nutritional supplement with proven clinical efficacy in the treatment of MDD, ME/CFS and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Basic research in recent decades has established acylcarnitines in general, and acetylcarnitine in particular, as important regulators and indicators of mitochondrial function and other physiological processes such as neuroinflammation and energy production pathways. In this review, we will compare the clinical basis of neuropsychiatric long COVID with other fatigue-associated diseases. We will also review common molecular disease mechanisms associated with altered acetylcarnitine metabolism and the potential of acetylcarnitine to interfere with these as a therapeutic agent. Finally, we will review the current evidence for acetylcarnitine as a supplement in the treatment of fatigue-associated diseases and propose future research strategies to investigate the potential of acetylcarnitine as a treatment option for long COVID.},
}

Humans
*Acetylcarnitine/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/complications
*Dietary Supplements
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/drug therapy

@article {pmid38185377,
year = {2024},
author = {Rischard, F and Altman, N and Szmuszkovicz, J and Sciurba, F and Berman-Rosenzweig, E and Lee, S and Krishnan, S and Truong, N and Wood, J and Finn, AV and , },
title = {Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on the Cardiopulmonary System in Adults and Children: Current Status and Questions to be Resolved by the National Institutes of Health Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery Initiative.},
journal = {Chest},
volume = {165},
number = {4},
pages = {978-989},
pmid = {38185377},
issn = {1931-3543},
support = {OTA-21-015A/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Child ; United States/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Dyspnea ; Lung ; },
abstract = {TOPIC IMPORTANCE: Long COVID may occur in at least 10% of patients recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection and often is associated with debilitating symptoms. Among the organ systems that might be involved in its pathogenesis, the respiratory and cardiovascular systems may be central to common symptoms seen in survivors of COVID-19, including fatigue, dyspnea, chest pain, cough, and exercise intolerance. Understand the exact symptomatology, causes, and effects of long COVID on the heart and lungs may help us to discover new therapies. To that end, the National Institutes of Health is sponsoring a national study population of diverse volunteers to support large-scale studies on the long-term effects of COVID-19.

REVIEW FINDINGS: The National Institutes of Health Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) initiative currently is recruiting participants in the United States to answer critical questions about long COVID. The study comprises adult and pediatric cohorts as well as an electronic health record cohort. Based on symptoms, individuals undergo prespecified medical testing to understand whether abnormalities can be detected and are followed up longitudinally. Herein, we outline current understanding of the clinical symptoms and pathophysiologic features of long COVID with respect to the cardiopulmonary system in adults and children and then determine how the clinical, electronic health record, and autopsy cohorts of the RECOVER initiative will attempt to answer the most pressing questions surrounding the long-term effects of COVID-19.

SUMMARY: Data generated from the RECOVER initiative will provide guidance about missing gaps in our knowledge about long COVID and how they might be filled by data gathered through the RECOVER initiative.},
}

Adult
Humans
Child
United States/epidemiology
*COVID-19
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Dyspnea
Lung

@article {pmid38187378,
year = {2023},
author = {Noonong, K and Chatatikun, M and Surinkaew, S and Kotepui, M and Hossain, R and Bunluepuech, K and Noothong, C and Tedasen, A and Klangbud, WK and Imai, M and Kawakami, F and Kubo, M and Kitagawa, Y and Ichikawa, H and Kanekura, T and Sukati, S and Somsak, V and Udomwech, L and Ichikawa, T and Nissapatorn, V and Tangpong, J and Indo, HP and Majima, HJ},
title = {Mitochondrial oxidative stress, mitochondrial ROS storms in long COVID pathogenesis.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1275001},
pmid = {38187378},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; Reactive Oxygen Species ; Mitochondria ; Oxidative Stress ; },
abstract = {SIGNIFICANCE: This review discusses the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathophysiology in the context of diabetes and intracellular reactions by COVID-19, including mitochondrial oxidative stress storms, mitochondrial ROS storms, and long COVID.

RECENT ADVANCES: The long COVID is suffered in ~10% of the COVID-19 patients. Even the virus does not exist, the patients suffer the long COVID for even over a year, This disease could be a mitochondria dysregulation disease.

CRITICAL ISSUES: Patients who recover from COVID-19 can develop new or persistent symptoms of multi-organ complications lasting weeks or months, called long COVID. The underlying mechanisms involved in the long COVID is still unclear. Once the symptoms of long COVID persist, they cause significant damage, leading to numerous, persistent symptoms.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS: A comprehensive map of the stages and pathogenetic mechanisms related to long COVID and effective drugs to treat and prevent it are required, which will aid the development of future long COVID treatments and symptom relief.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
Reactive Oxygen Species
Mitochondria
Oxidative Stress

@article {pmid38197253,
year = {2024},
author = {Hitchcock, S and Cintron, SA and Kasuske, L and J Diaz, F and Pierce, J},
title = {Post-COVID-19 Condition in Military Personnel.},
journal = {Military medicine},
volume = {189},
number = {5-6},
pages = {e1277-e1281},
doi = {10.1093/milmed/usad453},
pmid = {38197253},
issn = {1930-613X},
support = {11189-N23-B01//Tri-Service Nursing Research Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Military Personnel/statistics & numerical data ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Prevalence ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of individuals experienced persistent symptoms, collectively termed post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) by the World Health Organization. While civilian prevalence has been extensively studied, little is known about PCC in military personnel. This article highlights the need for increased awareness, documentation, and research on PCC within the military context, utilizing the Defense Health Agency database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A keyword search of the PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases was performed utilizing the keywords: military, post-COVID conditions, long COVID-19, and post-COVID19 syndrome. A five-stage integrative review framework was used to analyze 40 reports and research articles published from 2019 to 2023 to assess the current state of PCC research, including epidemiology, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 variants, pathophysiology, and prevalence in military personnel.

RESULTS: Our review revealed a notable gap in research on PCC within the military population, with only a few mentions in the literature. A key finding was the association between immunization status, symptom severity, and ethnicity in PCC development.

CONCLUSION: To comprehensively address PCC in military personnel, it is imperative to foster both awareness and documentation. Creating a centralized Defense Health Agency-DoD repository for active duty service members with PCC diagnoses offers a valuable opportunity to conduct trend analysis, identify missed cases, and better understand the individual and military readiness implications of this condition. Additionally, to address the educational needs of clinicians, it is essential to develop continuing medical education and continuing nursing education programs focusing on PCC signs, symptoms, and their impact on readiness. Furthermore, randomized controlled trials and longitudinal experimental clinical trials are essential for monitoring service members over time, providing valuable insights into the course of PCC and potential interventions. These research endeavors collectively contribute to improving the health, readiness, and care of military personnel affected by PCC.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Military Personnel/statistics & numerical data
*SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Prevalence
Pandemics

@article {pmid38202234,
year = {2023},
author = {Scott, C and Hall, S and Zhou, J and Lehmann, C},
title = {Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System in Early SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Long COVID-19-A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {38202234},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The clinical presentation of COVID-19 is variable, often including symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, and an altered sense of smell and taste. Recently, post-acute "long" COVID-19 has emerged as a concern, with symptoms persisting beyond the acute infection. Vaccinations remain one of the most effective preventative methods against severe COVID-19 outcomes and the development of long-term COVID-19. However, individuals with underlying health conditions may not mount an adequate protective response to COVID-19 vaccines, increasing the likelihood of severe symptoms, hospitalization, and the development of long-term COVID-19 in high-risk populations. This review explores the potential therapeutic role of cannabinoids in limiting the susceptibility and severity of infection, both pre- and post-SARS-CoV-19 infection. Early in the SARS-CoV-19 infection, cannabinoids have been shown to prevent viral entry, mitigate oxidative stress, and alleviate the associated cytokine storm. Post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, cannabinoids have shown promise in treating symptoms associated with post-acute long COVID-19, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress injury, insomnia, pain, and decreased appetite. While current research primarily focuses on potential treatments for the acute phase of COVID-19, there is a gap in research addressing therapeutics for the early and post-infectious phases. This review highlights the potential for future research to bridge this gap by investigating cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system as a potential treatment strategy for both early and post-SARS-CoV-19 infection.},
}

@article {pmid38203577,
year = {2023},
author = {Constantinescu-Bercu, A and Lobiuc, A and Căliman-Sturdza, OA and Oiţă, RC and Iavorschi, M and Pavăl, NE and Șoldănescu, I and Dimian, M and Covasa, M},
title = {Long COVID: Molecular Mechanisms and Detection Techniques.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {38203577},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {PN-III-Pl-1.1-PD-2021-0273, within PNCDI III//Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitization, CNCS - UEFISCDI/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), has emerged as a significant health concern following the COVID-19 pandemic. Molecular mechanisms underlying the occurrence and progression of long COVID include viral persistence, immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, and neurological involvement, and highlight the need for further research to develop targeted therapies for this condition. While a clearer picture of the clinical symptomatology is shaping, many molecular mechanisms are yet to be unraveled, given their complexity and high level of interaction with other metabolic pathways. This review summarizes some of the most important symptoms and associated molecular mechanisms that occur in long COVID, as well as the most relevant molecular techniques that can be used in understanding the viral pathogen, its affinity towards the host, and the possible outcomes of host-pathogen interaction.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Disease Progression

@article {pmid38203745,
year = {2024},
author = {Mantle, D and Hargreaves, IP and Domingo, JC and Castro-Marrero, J},
title = {Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation in Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome: An Overview.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {38203745},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/drug therapy/etiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Fibromyalgia/drug therapy/etiology ; Myalgia ; *Mitochondrial Diseases ; Dietary Supplements ; Ubiquinone/*analogs & derivatives ; },
abstract = {Post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS) encompasses a wide range of complex neuroimmune disorders of unknown causes characterised by disabling post-exertional fatigue, myalgia and joint pain, cognitive impairments, unrefreshing sleep, autonomic dysfunction, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. It includes myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS); fibromyalgia (FM); and more recently post-COVID-19 condition (long COVID). To date, there are no definitive clinical case criteria and no FDA-approved pharmacological therapies for PVFS. Given the current lack of effective treatments, there is a need to develop novel therapeutic strategies for these disorders. Mitochondria, the cellular organelles responsible for tissue energy production, have recently garnered attention in research into PVFS due to their crucial role in cellular bioenergetic metabolism in these conditions. The accumulating literature has identified a link between mitochondrial dysfunction and low-grade systemic inflammation in ME/CFS, FM, and long COVID. To address this issue, this article aims to critically review the evidence relating to mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of these disorders; in particular, it aims to evaluate the effectiveness of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on chronic fatigue and pain symptoms as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of PVFS.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/drug therapy/etiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Fibromyalgia/drug therapy/etiology
Myalgia
*Mitochondrial Diseases
Dietary Supplements
Ubiquinone/*analogs & derivatives

@article {pmid38204779,
year = {2023},
author = {Tseng, AA},
title = {Effectiveness of Meditation-based Interventions on Health Problems Caused by COVID-19 Pandemic: Narrative Review.},
journal = {International journal of yoga},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {72-78},
pmid = {38204779},
issn = {0973-6131},
abstract = {This article provides a quantitative review of the potential applications of meditation-based interventions (MBIs) in addressing the major health issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The review assesses the effectiveness of MBIs on five prevalent disorders during the pandemic, namely depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and long COVID. This is achieved by selecting and scrutinizing seven studies that involve various types of online randomized controlled trials and utilize control group outcomes for effectiveness evaluation. The findings reveal a significant impact of MBIs on overall distress disorder, encompassing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, with effectiveness ranging from 20.5% to 68.8%. The interventions also show moderate effectiveness on insomnia disorder with improvements between 5.2% and 38.5%. However, the effectiveness on long COVID disorder presents a mixed picture, with improvements varying from 0.0% to 71.2% across 13 related symptoms or qualities examined. This review offers compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of MBIs in alleviating these five prevalent disorders resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid38212633,
year = {2024},
author = {Goldstein, DS},
title = {Post-COVID dysautonomias: what we know and (mainly) what we don't know.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Neurology},
volume = {20},
number = {2},
pages = {99-113},
pmid = {38212633},
issn = {1759-4766},
support = {/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Autonomic Nervous System Diseases ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {Following on from the COVID-19 pandemic is another worldwide public health challenge that is referred to variously as long COVID, post-COVID syndrome or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). PASC comes in many forms and affects all body organs. This heterogeneous presentation suggests involvement of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which has numerous roles in the maintenance of homeostasis and coordination of responses to various stressors. Thus far, studies of ANS dysregulation in people with PASC have been largely observational and descriptive, based on symptom inventories or objective but indirect measures of cardiovascular function, and have paid little attention to the adrenomedullary, hormonal and enteric nervous components of the ANS. Such investigations do not consider the syndromic nature of autonomic dysfunction. This Review provides an update on the literature relating to ANS abnormalities in people with post-COVID syndrome and presents a theoretical perspective on how the ANS might participate in common features of PASC.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Pandemics
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
*Autonomic Nervous System Diseases
Disease Progression

@article {pmid38212781,
year = {2024},
author = {Azzam, A and Khaled, H and Refaey, N and Mohsen, S and El-Emam, OA and Dawood, N and Ahmed, HA and Soliman, OA and Mostafa, S and Ramadan, H and Mosa, M and Elmowafy, AOI and Rizk, SMA and Zaki, A and Hussien, M and Ahmed, A and Ezzat, AA and Hassan, FE},
title = {The burden of persistent symptoms after COVID-19 (long COVID): a meta-analysis of controlled studies in children and adults.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {16},
pmid = {38212781},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Humans ; Ageusia/etiology ; Anosmia/etiology ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/complications/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Previous meta-analyses estimating the prevalence of the post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) were confounded by the lack of negative control groups. This may result in an overestimation of the prevalence of those experiencing PCC, as these symptoms are non-specific and common in the general population. In this study, we aimed to compare the burden of persistent symptoms among COVID-19 survivors relative to COVID-19-negative controls.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted using the following databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) until July 2023 for comparative studies that examined the prevalence of persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors. Given that many of the symptoms among COVID-19 survivors overlap with post-hospitalization syndrome and post-intensive care syndrome, we included studies that compare the prevalence of persistent symptoms in hospitalized COVID-19 patients relative to non-COVID-19 hospitalized patients and in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients relative to healthy controls that reported outcomes after at least 3 months since infection. The results of the meta-analysis were reported as odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval based on the random effects model.

RESULTS: Twenty articles were included in this study. Our analysis of symptomatology in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients compared to negative controls revealed that the majority of symptoms examined were not related to COVID-19 infection and appeared equally prevalent in both cohorts. However, non-COVID-19 hospitalized patients had higher odds of occurrence of certain symptoms like anosmia, ageusia, fatigue, dyspnea, and brain fog (P < 0.05). Particularly, anosmia and ageusia showed substantially elevated odds relative to the negative control group at 11.27 and 9.76, respectively, P < 0.05. In contrast, analysis of hospitalized COVID-19 patients compared to those hospitalized for other indications did not demonstrate significantly higher odds for the tested symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS: The persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors may result from hospitalization for causes unrelated to COVID-19 and are commonly reported among the general population. Although certain symptoms exhibited higher odds in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients relative to controls, these symptoms are common post-viral illnesses. Therefore, the persistent symptoms after COVID-19 may not be unique to SARS-CoV-2. Future studies including well-matched control groups when investigating persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors are warranted to draw a firm conclusion.},
}

Adult
Child
Humans
Ageusia/etiology
Anosmia/etiology
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/complications/epidemiology

@article {pmid38214724,
year = {2024},
author = {Ludwig, M and Schneider, K and Heß, S and Broich, K},
title = {[Establishment of the new "Health Data Lab" to provide data for science].},
journal = {Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz},
volume = {67},
number = {2},
pages = {131-138},
pmid = {38214724},
issn = {1437-1588},
mesh = {Humans ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Germany ; *Delivery of Health Care ; Electronic Health Records ; },
abstract = {The analysis of real-world data (RWD) has become increasingly important in health research in recent years. With the BfArM Health Data Lab (HDL), which is currently being set up, researchers will in future be able to gain access to routine data from the statutory health insurance of around 74 million people in Germany. Data from electronic patient records can also be made available for research prospectively. In doing so, the Health Data Lab guarantees the highest data protection and IT security standards. The digital application process, the provision of data in secure processing environments as well as the features supporting the analyses such as catalogues of coding systems, a point-and-click analysis tool and predefined standard analyses increase user-friendliness for researchers. The use of the extensive health data accessible at HDL will open a wide range of future possibilities for improving the health system and the quality of care. This article begins by highlighting the advantages of the HDL and outlining the opportunities that the RWD offers for research in healthcare and for the population. The structure and central aspects of the HDL are explained afterwards. An outlook on the opportunities of linking different data is given. What the application and data usage processes at the HDL will look like is illustrated using the example of fictitious possibilities for analysing long COVID based on the routine data available at the HDL in the future.},
}

Humans
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Germany
*Delivery of Health Care
Electronic Health Records

@article {pmid38218363,
year = {2024},
author = {Skok, M},
title = {The role of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in post-acute sequelae of covid-19.},
journal = {The international journal of biochemistry & cell biology},
volume = {168},
number = {},
pages = {106519},
doi = {10.1016/j.biocel.2024.106519},
pmid = {38218363},
issn = {1878-5875},
mesh = {Humans ; alpha7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; RNA, Viral ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Antibodies ; *Receptors, Nicotinic ; },
abstract = {Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 or Long COVID becomes evident some weeks to months following acute COVID-19. Symptoms include cognitive impairment and varying degrees of memory loss with no definitive etiologies or efficacious therapies forthcoming even after four years of the SARS-Cov2 pandemic virus. The aim of this review is to demonstrate the important role of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in both acute COVID-19 and Long COVID. Evidence presented implicates immune mechanisms stimulated by SARS-Cov-2 S-protein fragment 674-685 that possesses homology with α7-specific ligands. Cognitive dysfunctions observed in Long COVID patients may be derived from anti-idiotypic α7-specific antibodies stimulated by (674-685)-specific antibodies. Therapeutic interventions capable of neutralizing these antibodies and restoring full functions of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors appear to be of paramount importance in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
alpha7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
RNA, Viral
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Antibodies
*Receptors, Nicotinic

@article {pmid38219763,
year = {2024},
author = {Català, M and Mercadé-Besora, N and Kolde, R and Trinh, NTH and Roel, E and Burn, E and Rathod-Mistry, T and Kostka, K and Man, WY and Delmestri, A and Nordeng, HME and Uusküla, A and Duarte-Salles, T and Prieto-Alhambra, D and Jödicke, AM},
title = {The effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines to prevent long COVID symptoms: staggered cohort study of data from the UK, Spain, and Estonia.},
journal = {The Lancet. Respiratory medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {3},
pages = {225-236},
doi = {10.1016/S2213-2600(23)00414-9},
pmid = {38219763},
issn = {2213-2619},
mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; BNT162 Vaccine ; Cohort Studies ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use ; Estonia ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Spain ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although vaccines have proved effective to prevent severe COVID-19, their effect on preventing long-term symptoms is not yet fully understood. We aimed to evaluate the overall effect of vaccination to prevent long COVID symptoms and assess comparative effectiveness of the most used vaccines (ChAdOx1 and BNT162b2).

METHODS: We conducted a staggered cohort study using primary care records from the UK (Clinical Practice Research Datalink [CPRD] GOLD and AURUM), Catalonia, Spain (Information System for Research in Primary Care [SIDIAP]), and national health insurance claims from Estonia (CORIVA database). All adults who were registered for at least 180 days as of Jan 4, 2021 (the UK), Feb 20, 2021 (Spain), and Jan 28, 2021 (Estonia) comprised the source population. Vaccination status was used as a time-varying exposure, staggered by vaccine rollout period. Vaccinated people were further classified by vaccine brand according to their first dose received. The primary outcome definition of long COVID was defined as having at least one of 25 WHO-listed symptoms between 90 and 365 days after the date of a PCR-positive test or clinical diagnosis of COVID-19, with no history of that symptom 180 days before SARS-Cov-2 infection. Propensity score overlap weighting was applied separately for each cohort to minimise confounding. Sub-distribution hazard ratios (sHRs) were calculated to estimate vaccine effectiveness against long COVID, and empirically calibrated using negative control outcomes. Random effects meta-analyses across staggered cohorts were conducted to pool overall effect estimates.

FINDINGS: A total of 1 618 395 (CPRD GOLD), 5 729 800 (CPRD AURUM), 2 744 821 (SIDIAP), and 77 603 (CORIVA) vaccinated people and 1 640 371 (CPRD GOLD), 5 860 564 (CPRD AURUM), 2 588 518 (SIDIAP), and 302 267 (CORIVA) unvaccinated people were included. Compared with unvaccinated people, overall HRs for long COVID symptoms in people vaccinated with a first dose of any COVID-19 vaccine were 0·54 (95% CI 0·44-0·67) in CPRD GOLD, 0·48 (0·34-0·68) in CPRD AURUM, 0·71 (0·55-0·91) in SIDIAP, and 0·59 (0·40-0·87) in CORIVA. A slightly stronger preventative effect was seen for the first dose of BNT162b2 than for ChAdOx1 (sHR 0·85 [0·60-1·20] in CPRD GOLD and 0·84 [0·74-0·94] in CPRD AURUM).

INTERPRETATION: Vaccination against COVID-19 consistently reduced the risk of long COVID symptoms, which highlights the importance of vaccination to prevent persistent COVID-19 symptoms, particularly in adults.

FUNDING: National Institute for Health and Care Research.},
}

Adult
Humans
BNT162 Vaccine
Cohort Studies
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use
Estonia
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Spain
United Kingdom/epidemiology

@article {pmid38233059,
year = {2024},
author = {Rofail, D and Somersan-Karakaya, S and Choi, JY and Przydzial, K and Zhao, Y and Hussein, M and Norton, TD and Podolanczuk, AJ and Mylonakis, E and Geba, GP},
title = {Thematic analysis to explore patients' experiences with long COVID-19: a conceptual model of symptoms and impacts on daily lives.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {e076992},
pmid = {38233059},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Female ; Male ; *Quality of Life/psychology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Activities of Daily Living ; Prospective Studies ; *COVID-19 ; Qualitative Research ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: There is limited qualitative research on patients' experiences with long COVID-19, and how specific symptoms impact their daily lives. The study aimed to understand patients' lived experiences of long COVID-19 and to develop a conceptual model representing the symptoms and their impact on overall quality of life.

SETTING: Qualitative study consisting of a comprehensive literature review, and in-depth clinician and patient semistructured interviews.

PARTICIPANTS: Forty-one adult patients with long COVID-19, of whom 18 (44%) were recruited through Regeneron Pharmaceuticals's clinical trials and 23 (56%) through recruitment agencies; 85.4% were female and 73.2% were White. Five independent clinicians treating patients with long COVID-19 were interviewed. Concept saturation was also assessed.

Interview transcripts were analysed thematically to identify concepts of interest spontaneously mentioned by patients, including symptoms and their impacts on daily life, to guide the development of the conceptual model.

RESULTS: Findings from the literature review and clinician and patient interviews resulted in the development of a conceptual model comprising two overarching domains: symptoms (upper respiratory tract, lower respiratory tract, smell and taste, systemic, gastrointestinal, neurocognitive and other) and impacts (activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, physical impacts, emotional, social/leisure activities and professional impacts). Saturation was achieved for the reported impacts. The symptoms reported were heterogenic; neurocognitive symptoms, such as numbness, ringing in ears, haziness, confusion, forgetfulness/memory problems, brain fog, concentration, difficulties finding the right word and challenges with fine motor skills, were particularly pertinent for several months.

CONCLUSION: The conceptual model, developed based on patient experience data of long COVID-19, highlighted numerous symptoms that impact patients' physical and mental well-being, and suggests humanistic unmet needs. Prospective real-world studies are warranted to understand the pattern of long COVID-19 experienced in larger samples over longer periods of time.},
}

Adult
Humans
Female
Male
*Quality of Life/psychology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Activities of Daily Living
Prospective Studies
*COVID-19
Qualitative Research

@article {pmid38235010,
year = {2023},
author = {Shibafar, S and Jafarlou, F},
title = {A review on the impacts of COVID-19 on the auditory system: Implications for public health promotion research.},
journal = {Health promotion perspectives},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {280-289},
pmid = {38235010},
issn = {2228-6497},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Currently, there are few studies on the relationship between COVID-19 and the auditory system. In the current study, a review of the studies conducted in the fields of etiopathology, clinical manifestations, research, and treatment of hearing loss caused byCOVID-19 was conducted, which can be used as a baseline for future studies.

METHODS: We utilized the research approach suggested by Arksey and O'Malley to carry out this scoping review. Search was conducted in Farsi and English with a focus on the onset of hearing loss in patients with COVID-19 through Medline and PubMed, and Google Scholar search engine. Studies included were those involving adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who experienced hearing loss, ear pain, ear discharge, and otitis media. Studies were eligible for inclusion if there was a description of the otologic dysfunction, specifically onset, duration, or clinical outcomes.

RESULTS: Among 90 studies identified, 35 studies were included in the review process. Our findings suggest several possible mechanisms for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in COVID-19 patients, and COVID-19 infection could have deleterious effects on the inner ear, specifically on the hair cells of the cochlea despite patients being asymptomatic and early identification of SSNHL in COVID-19patients can save the hearing and also patient.

CONCLUSION: Hearing loss in COVID-19 infection has not received much attention by health care professionals. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), tinnitus, and/or vertigo have been shown to occur during and following COVID-19 infection. Due to lack of research studies, and the inconsistency and even contradictory of the findings, it remains questionable whether COVID-19 contributes to the high incidence of hearing loss. The proper understanding of the mechanisms behind hearing loss in COVID-19 infections needs further research. However, it seems likely that SNHL could be included among the manifestations of those-called "long COVID" syndrome.},
}

@article {pmid38246521,
year = {2024},
author = {Daynes, E and Mills, G and Hull, JH and Bishop, NC and Bakali, M and Burtin, C and McAuley, HJC and Singh, SJ and Greening, NJ},
title = {Pulmonary Rehabilitation for People With Persistent Symptoms After COVID-19.},
journal = {Chest},
volume = {166},
number = {3},
pages = {461-471},
doi = {10.1016/j.chest.2024.01.029},
pmid = {38246521},
issn = {1931-3543},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Exercise Therapy/methods ; },
abstract = {TOPIC IMPORTANCE: COVID-19 can cause ongoing and persistent symptoms (such as breathlessness and fatigue) that lead to reduced functional capacity. There are parallels in symptoms and functional limitations in adults with post-COVID symptoms and adults with chronic respiratory diseases. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a key treatment for adults with chronic respiratory diseases, with the aims to improve symptom management and increase functional capacity. Given the similarities in presentation and aims, a pulmonary rehabilitation program may be optimal to meet the needs of those with ongoing symptoms after COVID-19.

REVIEW FINDINGS: Aerobic and strength training has shown benefit for adults living with long COVID, although there is little evidence on structured education in this population. Breathing pattern disorder is common in adults with long COVID, and considerations on treatment before rehabilitation, or alongside rehabilitation, are necessary. Considerations on postexertional malaise are important in this population, and evidence from the chronic fatigue syndrome literature supports the need for individualization of exercise programs, and considerations for those who have an adverse reaction to activity and/or exercise.

SUMMARY: This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on pulmonary rehabilitation programs in a long-COVID population. Where the evidence is lacking in long COVID the supporting evidence of these programs in chronic respiratory diseases has highlighted the importance of aerobic and strength training, considerations for fatigue, potential mechanisms for immunology improvement, and management of breathing pattern disorders in these programs.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/rehabilitation/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Exercise Therapy/methods

@article {pmid38248798,
year = {2024},
author = {Trofor, AC and Robu Popa, D and Melinte, OE and Trofor, L and Vicol, C and Grosu-Creangă, IA and Crișan Dabija, RA and Cernomaz, AT},
title = {Looking at the Data on Smoking and Post-COVID-19 Syndrome-A Literature Review.},
journal = {Journal of personalized medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {38248798},
issn = {2075-4426},
abstract = {Long COVID is a recently described entity that is responsible for significant morbidity and that has consequences ranging from mild to life-threatening. The underlying mechanisms are not completely understood, and treatment options are currently limited, as existing data focus more on risk factors and predictors. Smoking has been reported as a risk factor for poor outcomes of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and seems to also play a role in mediating post-COVID-19 symptoms. We aimed to review relevant work addressing the interaction between smoking and long COVID in order to characterize smoking's role as a risk factor and possibly identify new research directions. Methods: The PubMed/MEDLINE database was searched using the keywords 'smoking', 'long COVID', and 'post-acute COVID' to identify relevant English-language articles published up to October 2023. Results and conclusions: From the 374 initial hits, a total of 36 papers were deemed relevant to the aim of the review. There was significant variability concerning the ways in which tobacco usage was quantified and reported; still, there is compelling evidence linking smoking to an increased risk of developing manifestations of post-acute-COVID disease. Some clinical conditions, such as dyspnea, cardiovascular symptoms, and cognitive or mental-health impairment, seem to be relatively strongly associated with smoking, while the connection between smoking and upper-airway involvement seems less certain. The available data support recommending smoking cessation as a clinical tool for the prevention of long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid38253027,
year = {2024},
author = {Untersmayr, E and Venter, C and Smith, P and Rohrhofer, J and Ndwandwe, C and Schwarze, J and Shannon, E and Sokolowska, M and Sadlier, C and O'Mahony, L},
title = {Immune Mechanisms Underpinning Long COVID: Collegium Internationale Allergologicum Update 2024.},
journal = {International archives of allergy and immunology},
volume = {185},
number = {5},
pages = {489-502},
doi = {10.1159/000535736},
pmid = {38253027},
issn = {1423-0097},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Dysbiosis/immunology ; Autoimmunity ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can result in a prolonged multisystem disorder termed long COVID, which may affect up to 10% of people following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It is currently unclear why certain individuals do not fully recover following SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SUMMARY: In this review, we examine immunological mechanisms that may underpin the pathophysiology of long COVID. These mechanisms include an inappropriate immune response to acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, immune cell exhaustion, immune cell metabolic reprogramming, a persistent SARS-CoV-2 reservoir, reactivation of other viruses, inflammatory responses impacting the central nervous system, autoimmunity, microbiome dysbiosis, and dietary factors.

KEY MESSAGES: Unfortunately, the currently available diagnostic and treatment options for long COVID are inadequate, and more clinical trials are needed that match experimental interventions to underlying immunological mechanisms.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Dysbiosis/immunology
Autoimmunity