@article {pmid39854158,
year = {2025},
author = {Lau, RI and Su, Q and Ng, SC},
title = {Long COVID and gut microbiome: insights into pathogenesis and therapeutics.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2457495},
doi = {10.1080/19490976.2025.2457495},
pmid = {39854158},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {*Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Humans ; *Fecal Microbiota Transplantation ; *COVID-19/therapy/microbiology ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; *Dysbiosis/therapy/microbiology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Prebiotics/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Post-acute coronavirus disease 2019 syndrome (PACS), following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection or coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is typically characterized by long-term debilitating symptoms affecting multiple organs and systems. Unfortunately, there is currently a lack of effective treatment strategies. Altered gut microbiome has been proposed as one of the plausible mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of PACS; extensive studies have emerged to bridge the gap between the persistent symptoms and the dysbiosis of gut microbiome. Recent clinical trials have indicated that gut microbiome modulation using probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) led to improvements in multiple symptoms related to PACS, including fatigue, memory loss, difficulty in concentration, gastrointestinal upset, and disturbances in sleep and mood. In this review, we highlight the latest evidence on the key microbial alterations observed in PACS, as well as the use of microbiome-based therapeutics in managing PACS symptoms. These novel findings altogether shed light on the treatment of PACS and other chronic conditions.},
}

*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Humans
*Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
*COVID-19/therapy/microbiology
*Probiotics/therapeutic use
*Dysbiosis/therapy/microbiology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Prebiotics/administration & dosage

@article {pmid39853911,
year = {2025},
author = {Hou, Z and Ming, Y and Liu, J and Wang, Z},
title = {Potential Biomarkers for Predicting the Risk of Developing Into Long COVID After COVID-19 Infection.},
journal = {Immunity, inflammation and disease},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {e70137},
doi = {10.1002/iid3.70137},
pmid = {39853911},
issn = {2050-4527},
support = {//This study was supported by the Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (CI2023C063YLL) and National Major Scientific and Technological Special Project for "Significant New Drug Development" (2017ZX09301059)./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/genetics/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology/immunology ; *Biomarkers ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Transcriptome ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Gene Ontology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID, a heterogeneous condition characterized by a range of physical and neuropsychiatric presentations, can be presented with a proportion of COVID-19-infected individuals.

METHODS: Transcriptomic data sets of those within gene expression profiles of COVID-19, long COVID, and healthy controls were retrieved from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) falling under COVID-19 and long COVID were identified with R packages, and contemporaneously conducted module detection was performed with the Modular Pharmacology Platform (http://112.86.129.72:48081/). The integration of both DEGs and differentially expressed module-genes (DEMGs) regarding long COVID and COVID-19 was intersected by following Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA).

RESULTS: There were 11 and 62 differentially expressed modules, 1837 and 179 DEGs, as well as 103 and 508 DEMGs acquiring identified for both COVID-19 and long COVID, notably enriched in the immune-correlated signaling pathways. The immune infiltrating cells of long COVID and COVID-19 were comparatively and respectively assessed via CIBERSORT, ssGSEA, and xCell algorithms. Subsequently, the screening of hub genes involved employing the SVM-RFE, RF, XGBoost algorithms, and logistic regression analysis. Among the 67 candidate genes were processed with machine learning algorithms and logistic regression, a subgroup consisting of CEP55, CDCA2, MELK, and DEPDC1B, was at last identified as potential biomarkers for predicting the risk of the progression into long COVID after COVID-19 infections. The predicting performance of the potential biomarkers was quantified with a ROC value of 0.8762542, which proved the combination of potential biomarkers provided the highest performance.

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, we identified a subgroup of potential biomarkers for predicting the risk of the progression into long COVID after COVID-19 infection, which could be partly elucidation of the associated molecular mechanisms for long COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/genetics/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology/immunology
*Biomarkers
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Transcriptome
Gene Expression Profiling
Gene Ontology

@article {pmid39853360,
year = {2025},
author = {Jebrini, T and Stubbe, HC and Ruzicka, M and Adorjan, K},
title = {Neurocognitive challenges Post-COVID: current perspectives and future solutions.},
journal = {European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39853360},
issn = {1433-8491},
}

@article {pmid39852767,
year = {2024},
author = {Blitshteyn, S and Ruhoy, IS and Natbony, LR and Saperstein, DS},
title = {Internal Tremor in Long COVID May Be a Symptom of Dysautonomia and Small Fiber Neuropathy.},
journal = {Neurology international},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/neurolint17010002},
pmid = {39852767},
issn = {2035-8385},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Internal tremor (IT) is often reported by patients with post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2, also known as Long COVID, as a distressing and disabling symptom. Similarly, physicians are typically perplexed by the nature and etiology of IT and find it extremely challenging to manage. Methods: We describe a patient with Long COVID who experienced IT as part of post-COVID postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and small fiber neuropathy (SFN) and review the limited literature available on this topic. Results: Our patient's IT improved significantly after intravenous saline infusions, but there was no effect on IT with oral hydration, increased oral sodium chloride intake, neuropathic pain medications, muscle relaxants, or medications used for the treatment of POTS. Conclusions: Based on this case, our clinical experience, and the limited literature available to date, we believe IT is a manifestation of POTS and SFN, which may be driven by hypovolemia, cerebral hypoperfusion, sympathetic overactivity, neuropathic pain, and mast cell hyperactivation. Subjective description, objective findings, and diagnostic and therapeutic considerations in patients with IT and Long COVID are discussed.},
}

@article {pmid39850323,
year = {2024},
author = {Stefanou, MI and Panagiotopoulos, E and Palaiodimou, L and Bakola, E and Smyrnis, N and Papadopoulou, M and Moschovos, C and Paraskevas, GP and Rizos, E and Boutati, E and Tzavellas, E and Gatzonis, S and Mengel, A and Giannopoulos, S and Tsiodras, S and Kimiskidis, VK and Tsivgoulis, G},
title = {Current update on the neurological manifestations of long COVID: more questions than answers.},
journal = {EXCLI journal},
volume = {23},
number = {},
pages = {1463-1486},
pmid = {39850323},
issn = {1611-2156},
abstract = {Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a global surge in patients presenting with prolonged or late-onset debilitating sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, colloquially termed long COVID. This narrative review provides an updated synthesis of the latest evidence on the neurological manifestations of long COVID, discussing its clinical phenotypes, underlying pathophysiology, while also presenting the current state of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Approximately one-third of COVID-19 survivors experience prolonged neurological sequelae that persist for at least 12-months post-infection, adversely affecting patients' quality of life. Core neurological manifestations comprise fatigue, post-exertional malaise, cognitive impairment, headache, lightheadedness ('brain fog'), sleep disturbances, taste or smell disorders, dysautonomia, anxiety, and depression. Some of these features overlap substantially with those reported in post-intensive-care syndrome, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and postural-orthostatic-tachycardia syndrome. Advances in data-driven research utilizing electronic-health-records combined with machine learning and artificial intelligence have propelled the identification of long COVID sub-phenotypes. Furthermore, the evolving definitions reflect the dynamic conceptualization of long COVID in both research and clinical contexts. Although the underlying pathophysiology remains incompletely elucidated, neuroinflammatory responses, endotheliopathy, and metabolic imbalances, rather than direct viral neuroinvasion, are implicated in neurological sequelae. Genetic susceptibility has also emerged as a potential risk factor. While major limitations remain with existing definitions, collaborative strategies to standardize diagnostic approaches are needed. Current therapeutic paradigms advocate for multimodal approaches, integrating pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions along with comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Although preliminary evidence of therapeutic efficacy has been provided by a number of clinical trials, methodological constraints limit the generalizability of this evidence. Preventive measures, notably vaccination, have proven integral for reducing the global burden of long COVID. Considering the healthcare and socioeconomic repercussions incurred by long COVID worldwide, international collaborative initiatives are warranted to address the remaining challenges in diagnosing and managing patients presenting with neurological sequelae. See also the graphical abstract(Fig. 1).},
}

@article {pmid39850015,
year = {2025},
author = {Rao, S and Azuero-Dajud, R and Lorman, V and Landeo-Gutierrez, J and Rhee, KE and Ryu, J and Kim, C and Carmilani, M and Gross, RS and Mohandas, S and Suresh, S and Bailey, LC and Castro, V and Senathirajah, Y and Esquenazi-Karonika, S and Murphy, S and Caddle, S and Kleinman, LC and Castro-Baucom, L and Oliveira, CR and Klein, JD and Chung, A and Cowell, LG and Madlock-Brown, C and Geary, CR and Sills, MR and Thorpe, LE and Szmuszkovicz, J and Tantisira, KG and , and , },
title = {Ethnic and racial differences in children and young people with respiratory and neurological post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2: an electronic health record-based cohort study from the RECOVER Initiative.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {103042},
pmid = {39850015},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Children from racial and ethnic minority groups are at greater risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, but it is unclear whether they have increased risk for post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Our objectives were to assess whether the risk of respiratory and neurologic PASC differs by race/ethnicity and social drivers of health.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of individuals <21 years seeking care at 24 health systems across the U.S, using electronic health record (EHR) data. Our cohort included those with a positive SARS-CoV-2 molecular, serology or antigen test, or with a COVID-19, multisystem inflammatory disease in children, or PASC diagnosis from February 29, 2020 to August 1, 2022. We identified children/youth with at least 2 codes associated with respiratory and neurologic PASC. We measured associations between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and respiratory and neurologic PASC using odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals estimated from multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for other sociodemographic characteristics, social vulnerability index or area deprivation index, time period of cohort entry, presence and complexity of chronic respiratory (respectively, neurologic) condition and healthcare utilization.

FINDINGS: Among 771,725 children in the cohort, 203,365 (26.3%) had SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among children with documented infection, 3217 children had respiratory PASC and 2009 children/youth had neurologic PASC. In logistic regression models, children <5 years (Odds Ratio [OR] 1.78, 95% CI 1.62-1.97), and of Hispanic White descent (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.05-1.35) had higher odds of having respiratory PASC. Children/youth living in regions with higher area deprivation indices (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.10-1.420 for 60-79th percentile) and with chronic complex respiratory conditions (OR 3.28, 95% CI 2.91-3.70) also had higher odds of respiratory PASC. In contrast, older (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.40-1.77 for those aged 12-17 years), non-Hispanic White individuals and those with chronic pre-existing neurologic conditions (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.78-2.35) were more likely to have a neurologic PASC diagnosis.

INTERPRETATION: Racial and ethnic differences in healthcare utilization for neurologic and respiratory PASC may reflect social drivers of health and inequities in access to care.

FUNDING: National Institutes of Health.},
}

@article {pmid39849406,
year = {2025},
author = {Iqbal, NT and Khan, H and Khalid, A and Mahmood, SF and Nasir, N and Khanum, I and de Siqueira, I and Van Voorhis, W},
title = {Chronic inflammation in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 modulates gut microbiome: a review of literature on COVID-19 sequelae and gut dysbiosis.},
journal = {Molecular medicine (Cambridge, Mass.)},
volume = {31},
number = {1},
pages = {22},
pmid = {39849406},
issn = {1528-3658},
support = {3U01AI151698//Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *Dysbiosis ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Brain-Gut Axis ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID or Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 is an emerging syndrome, recognized in COVID-19 patients who suffer from mild to severe illness and do not recover completely. Most studies define Long COVID, through symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and headache prevailing four or more weeks post-initial infection. Global variations in Long COVID presentation and symptoms make it challenging to standardize features of Long COVID. Long COVID appears to be accompanied by an auto-immune multi-faceted syndrome where the virus or viral antigen persistence causes continuous stimulation of the immune response, resulting in multi-organ immune dysregulation.

MAIN TEXT: This review is focused on understanding the risk factors of Long COVID with a special emphasis on the dysregulation of the gut-brain axis. Two proposed mechanisms are discussed here. The first mechanism is related to the dysfunction of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor due to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 infection, leading to impaired mTOR pathway activation, reduced AMP secretion, and causing dysbiotic changes in the gut. Secondly, gut-brain axis dysregulation accompanied by decreased production of short-chain fatty acids, impaired enteroendocrine cell function, and increased leakiness of the gut, which favors translocation of pathogens or lipopolysaccharide in circulation causing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The altered Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis is accompanied by the reduced level of neurotransmitter, and decreased stimulation of the vagus nerve, which may cause neuroinflammation and dysregulation of serum cortisol levels. The dysbiotic microbiome in Long COVID patients is characterized by a decrease in beneficial short chain fatty acid-producing bacteria (Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, Dorea, and Bifidobacterium) and an increase in opportunistic bacteria (Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, Enterococcus). This dysbiosis is transient and may be impacted by interventions including probiotics, and dietary supplements.

CONCLUSIONS: Further studies are required to understand the geographic variation, racial and ethnic differences in phenotypes of Long COVID, the influence of viral strains on existing and emerging phenotypes, to explore long-term effects of gut dysbiosis, and gut-brain axis dysregulation, as well as the potential role of diet and probiotics in alleviating those symptoms.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*Dysbiosis
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Brain-Gut Axis
Inflammation

@article {pmid39849379,
year = {2025},
author = {Saigal, A and Xiao, S and Siddique, O and Naran, P and Bintalib, HM and Niklewicz, CN and Seligmann, G and Naidu, SB and Shah, AJ and Ogbonnaya, C and Hurst, JR and Lipman, MC and Mandal, S},
title = {Predictors of specialist care referrals (SCR) following emergency department review or hospital admission in adults with previous acute COVID-19: a prospective UK cohort study.},
journal = {BMC emergency medicine},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {11},
pmid = {39849379},
issn = {1471-227X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Referral and Consultation/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy ; Female ; *Emergency Service, Hospital/statistics & numerical data ; Male ; Prospective Studies ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Specialization ; London/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long-COVID research to date focuses on outcomes in non-hospitalised vs. hospitalised survivors. However Emergency Department attendees (post-ED) presenting with acute COVID-19 may experience less supported recovery compared to people admitted and discharged from hospital (post-hospitalised group, PH).

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated outcomes and predictors of specialty care referrals (SCR) in those with ongoing symptomatic Long-COVID, comparing post-ED and PH adults.

METHODS: This prospective observational cohort study evaluates 800 PH and 484 post-ED adults from a single hospital in London, United Kingdom. Participants had either confirmed laboratory-positive SARS-CoV-2 infection or clinically suspected acute COVID-19 and were offered post-COVID clinical follow-up at approximately six weeks after their ED attendance or inpatient discharge, to assess ongoing symptoms and support recovery. Multiple logistic regression determined associations with specialist care referrals (SCR) to respiratory, cardiology, physiotherapy (including chest physiotherapy), and mental health services.

RESULTS: Presence of at least one Long-COVID symptom was lower in adults attending ED services with acute COVID-19 compared to those hospitalised (70.1% post-ED vs. 79.5% PH adults, p < 0.001). Total number of Long-COVID symptoms was associated with increased SCR in all patients (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.26, 95%CI:1.16, 1.36, p < 0.001), with post-ED adults more likely to need a SCR overall (aOR = 1.82, 95%CI:1.19, 2.79, p = 0.006). Post-ED adults had higher SCR to both physiotherapy (aOR = 2.59, 95%CI:1.35, 4.96, p = 0.004) and mental health services (aOR = 3.84, 95%CI:2.00, 7.37, p < 0.001), with pre-existing mental illness linked to the latter (aOR = 4.08, 95%CI:1.07, 15.6, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate greater specialist care referrals to mental health and physiotherapy services in patients attending the ED and discharged with acute COVID-19, compared to those admitted, despite lower ongoing COVID-19 symptom burden. Total number of symptoms, pre-existing co-morbidity such as smoking status, cardiac co-morbidities, and mental health illnesses may predict those requiring healthcare input. This information may enable better post-COVID support for ED attendees, a distinct group who should not be neglected when preparing for future pandemics.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study had HRA approval (20/HRA/4928).},
}

Humans
*Referral and Consultation/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
Female
*Emergency Service, Hospital/statistics & numerical data
Male
Prospective Studies
Middle Aged
Adult
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
United Kingdom/epidemiology
Aged
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Specialization
London/epidemiology

@article {pmid39102190,
year = {2024},
author = {Widmann, CN and Henkel, C and Seibert, S},
title = {"Brain Fog" After COVID-19 Infection: How the Field of Neuropsychology Can Help Clear the Air.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1458},
number = {},
pages = {59-76},
pmid = {39102190},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; Attention/physiology ; Brain/physiopathology/virology ; Cognition/physiology ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation/virology ; Executive Function/physiology ; *Mental Fatigue/physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation/virology ; *Neuropsychology/methods ; Pandemics ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {The chapter explores the role of neuropsychology in understanding brain fog as a subjective complaint in the context of COVID-19. It discusses the historical and medical significance of the term "brain fog" and its psychological and neurological aspects. The chapter identifies the cognitive domains commonly affected by brain fog, such as attention, executive function, memory, and language. Additionally, it emphasizes the impact of societal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic on the general population as a crucial backdrop for understanding the issue. The chapter also highlights the important role of clinical and research neuropsychologists in gaining clarity on grouped data and individual patients' cognitive and emotional difficulties after COVID-19 infection. It discusses indications for neuropsychological rehabilitation and therapy and describes typical therapy phases and methods, including new approaches like telemedicine, virtual reality, and mobile app-based rehabilitation and self-tracking. The chapter underscores that experiences of brain fog can vary among COVID-19 patients and may change over time. It provides clinicians and interested parties with an in-depth understanding of brain fog and its manifestations, concomitant subtypes, and concrete strategies for addressing it. The chapter emphasizes the critical role of neuropsychology in scientifically examining brain fog and advocating for personalized approaches to cognitive rehabilitation.},
}

Humans
Attention/physiology
Brain/physiopathology/virology
Cognition/physiology
*Cognitive Dysfunction/physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation/virology
Executive Function/physiology
*Mental Fatigue/physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation/virology
*Neuropsychology/methods
Pandemics
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome/physiopathology/psychology/rehabilitation/virology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Telemedicine

@article {pmid39849116,
year = {2025},
author = {Kovács, F and Posvai, T and Zsáry, E and Kolonics, F and Garai, R and Herczeg, V and Czárán, D and Takács, J and Szabó, AJ and Krivácsy, P and Csépányi-Kömi, R},
title = {Correction: Long COVID syndrome in children: neutrophilic granulocyte dysfunction and its correlation with disease severity.},
journal = {Pediatric research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41390-025-03888-3},
pmid = {39849116},
issn = {1530-0447},
}

@article {pmid39849114,
year = {2025},
author = {Buonsenso, D and Cotugno, N and Amodio, D and Pascucci, GR and Di Sante, G and Pighi, C and Morrocchi, E and Pucci, A and Olivieri, G and Colantoni, N and Romani, L and Rotili, A and Neri, A and Morello, R and Sali, M and Tremoulet, A and Raffaelli, F and Zampino, G and Rossi, P and Valentini, P and Palma, P},
title = {Distinct pro-inflammatory/pro-angiogenetic signatures distinguish children with Long COVID from controls.},
journal = {Pediatric research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39849114},
issn = {1530-0447},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recent proteomic studies have documented that Long COVID in adults is characterized by a pro-inflammatory signature with thromboinflammation. However, if similar events happen also in children with Long COVID has never been investigated.

METHODS: We performed an extensive protein analysis of blood plasma from pediatric patients younger than 19 years of age Long COVID and a control group of children with acute COVID-19, MIS-C, and healthy controls resulted similar for sex distribution and age. Children were classified as Long COVID if symptoms persisted for at least 8 weeks since the initial infection, negatively impacted daily life and could not be explained otherwise.

RESULTS: 112 children were included in the study, including 34 children fulfilling clinical criteria of Long COVID, 32 acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, 27 MIS-C and 19 healthy controls. Compared with controls, pediatric Long COVID was characterized by higher expression of the proinflammatory and pro-angiogenetic set of chemokines CXCL11, CXCL1, CXCL5, CXCL6, CXCL8, TNFSF11, OSM, STAMBP1a. A Machine Learning model based on proteomic profile was able to identify LC with an accuracy of 0.93, specificity of 0.86 and sensitivity of 0.97.

CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric Long COVID patients have a well distinct blood protein signature marked by increased ongoing general and endothelial inflammation, similarly as happens in adults.

IMPACT: Pediatric Long COVID has a distinct blood protein signature marked by increased ongoing general and endothelial inflammation. This is the first study studying and documenting proinflammatory profile in blood samples of children with long COVID. Long COVID was characterized by higher expression of the proinflammatory and pro-angiogenetic set of chemokines CXCL11, CXCL1, CXCL5, CXCL6, CXCL8, TNFSF11, OSM, STAMBP1a. A proteomic profile was able to identify Long COVID with an accuracy of 0.93, specificity of 0.86 and sensitivity of 0.97. These findings may inform development of future diagnostic tests.},
}

@article {pmid39848792,
year = {2025},
author = {Selvan, H and Rana, M},
title = {Recurrent nodular episcleritis as a manifestation of long COVID.},
journal = {BMJ case reports},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bcr-2024-262244},
pmid = {39848792},
issn = {1757-790X},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Scleritis/virology/etiology/diagnosis/drug therapy ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; Middle Aged ; *Recurrence ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {A woman in her 50s presented with redness, eye pain, watering and photophobia of the left eye starting 1 week after she tested positive for COVID-19. She was diagnosed with left eye episcleritis and started on topical steroids. As the steroids were being gradually tapered, she developed a recurrence. The cycle of treatment-tapering-recurrence repeated itself such that nine episodes were noted within a span of 3 years. An exhaustive diagnostic work-up including infective and autoimmune blood tests, rheumatology assessment and COVID-19 conjunctival swabs and tear samples were done, and no underlying conditions or triggers could be identified, attributing 'long COVID' as the likely causative. Long COVID is the continuation or development of new symptoms after the initial COVID-19 infection, with no other explanation. It is estimated to affect nearly 65 million people worldwide, with >200 symptoms, involving different organ systems. The ocular manifestations of long COVID are less well-known.},
}

Humans
Female
*Scleritis/virology/etiology/diagnosis/drug therapy
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
Middle Aged
*Recurrence
*SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39848702,
year = {2025},
author = {León-Gómez, BB and Carmona-Cervelló, M and Dacosta-Aguayo, R and Lamonja-Vicente, N and Bielsa-Pascual, J and López-Lifante, VM and Zamora-Putin, V and Molist, G and Montero-Alia, P and Pachón-Camacho, A and Moreno-Gabriel, E and García-Sierra, R and Bermudo-Gallaguet, A and Chacón, C and Costa-Garrido, A and Muñoz-Moreno, JA and Mateu, L and Mataró, M and Prado, JG and Martínez-Cáceres, E and Massanella, M and Violán, C and Torán-Monserrat, P},
title = {Prevalence and severity of anxiety, stress, and depression in long COVID among adults in Barcelona.},
journal = {BJGP open},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3399/BJGPO.2024.0098},
pmid = {39848702},
issn = {2398-3795},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic's long-term mental health implications are increasingly concerning, especially among patients suffering post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection: Long COVID (LC) patients.

AIM: This study explores the presence and distribution of anxiety, depression, and stress in LC individuals with cognitive complaints in northern Barcelona (Spain).

DESIGN & SETTINGS: This cross-sectional study involved 155 diagnosed LC individuals from the "Aliança ProHEpiC-19 Cognitiu (APC)" project.

METHOD: Demographic data and health behavior variables were collected, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was self-administered to assess mental health. Descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, and Poisson regression models were used for data analysis.

RESULTS: 'Severe' stress and 'Extremely Severe' anxiety were prevalent in the sample. There were significant differences in anxiety and depression based on age and job role, with older individuals and non-healthcare workers showing higher relative risks.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights the significant mental health burden in LC patients, underscoring the need for targeted interventions, especially among adults over 45 years old and non-healthcare workers. Further research is needed to better understand LC's complex mental health impacts and develop effective clinical management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid39847900,
year = {2025},
author = {Moullec, Y and Saint-Aubert, J and Lécuyer, A and Bidard, Q and Bonan, I and Cogné, M},
title = {Simulated breathing in virtual reality does not affect perceived effort during the physical rehabilitation of people with long COVID.},
journal = {Annals of physical and rehabilitation medicine},
volume = {68},
number = {4},
pages = {101922},
doi = {10.1016/j.rehab.2024.101922},
pmid = {39847900},
issn = {1877-0665},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of simulated breathing in virtual reality (VR) for manipulating the level of perceived effort of people with long COVID during sessions of physical rehabilitation.

METHODS: We conducted a within-participants randomized prospective study during a cycling exercise in immersive VR with three counterbalanced conditions of simulated breathing: slower breathing, neutral breathing, and faster breathing compared to theirs. 37 participants with long COVID and deconditioning were included in the study, 36 of which could finish the experiment.

RESULTS: The study did not show any influence of the rate of the simulated breathing on participants' perceived effort, which was the primary judgment criterion. We did not find any effect of simulated breathing rate on perceived fatigue, cybersickness and embodiment (VR metrics), and preference. However, higher actual breathing rates were observed in the condition with faster simulated breathing.

CONCLUSION: The study did not show the effectiveness of using simulated breathing in VR to manipulate perceived effort during the physical rehabilitation of people with long COVID. Nevertheless, our results suggest that this technique is feasible, as only one participant dropped out due to their symptoms, as most participants had a good appreciation of the system, and reported feeling rather strong embodiment and weak cybersickness.},
}

@article {pmid39846976,
year = {2024},
author = {Rodríguez-Morán, M and Guerrero-Romero, F and Barragán-Zuñiga, J and Gamboa-Gómez, CI and Weyman-Vela, Y and Arce-Quiñones, M and Simental-Mendía, LE and Martínez-Aguilar, G},
title = {Combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D alleviates mild to moderate depressive symptoms related to long-COVID: an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial.},
journal = {Magnesium research},
volume = {37},
number = {3},
pages = {49-57},
doi = {10.1684/mrh.2024.0535},
pmid = {39846976},
issn = {1952-4021},
mesh = {Humans ; Middle Aged ; Male ; Female ; *Vitamin D/administration & dosage/blood/therapeutic use ; *Dietary Supplements ; *Depression/drug therapy/blood ; Adult ; *Magnesium/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/blood ; Administration, Oral ; COVID-19 ; Vitamin D Deficiency/drug therapy/blood ; Aged ; Magnesium Chloride/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Individuals with long-COVID exhibit a higher frequency of hypomagnesemia, vitamin D deficiency, and depression. Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral supplementation with magnesium chloride plus vitamin D in alleviating depressive symptoms related to long-COVID. A total of 60 subjects, aged 52.8±12.6 years, with a diagnosis of hypomagnesemia, vitamin D deficiency, and mild-to-moderate depression (MMD) related to long-COVID, were enrolled in an open-label randomized, controlled clinical trial. Participants were randomly allocated into an intervention group (n=30) that received magnesium chloride (1300 mg) plus vitamin D (4000 IU), or a control group (n=30) that received vitamin D (4000 IU), for four months. Using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), diagnosis of MMD was established based on a score of ≥11<30. The primary trial endpoint was improvement in depressive symptoms (BDI <11). Mild adverse events that did not require withdrawal from intervention were documented in six (20.0%) and three (10%) individuals of the intervention and control group, respectively. By comparing baseline vs. final measurements, the BDI score was significantly reduced in individuals in the intervention (28.8±3.7 to 9.2±7.5, p<0.01) and control (28.4±3.8 to 21.6±9.1, p<0.05) group. A total of 22 (73.2%) subjects in the intervention group and 10 (34.5%) in the control group reached a BDI <11, p=0.006. Our results show that, among patients with hypomagnesemia and vitamin D deficiency, combined oral supplementation with magnesium plus vitamin D is effective and safe in alleviating MMD related to long-COVID.},
}

Humans
Middle Aged
Male
Female
*Vitamin D/administration & dosage/blood/therapeutic use
*Dietary Supplements
*Depression/drug therapy/blood
Adult
*Magnesium/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/blood
Administration, Oral
COVID-19
Vitamin D Deficiency/drug therapy/blood
Aged
Magnesium Chloride/administration & dosage/therapeutic use

@article {pmid39846207,
year = {2025},
author = {MacKinnon, C and Castro-Barquero, C and Kontis, A and Patrice, V and Nadarajah, M and Janaudis-Ferreira, T},
title = {Perspectives of Rehabilitation Professionals on Long COVID Interventions to Facilitate Return-to-Work.},
journal = {Canadian journal of occupational therapy. Revue canadienne d'ergotherapie},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {84174241312510},
doi = {10.1177/00084174241312510},
pmid = {39846207},
issn = {1911-9828},
abstract = {Background. The severe functional impact of long COVID presents a significant challenge for clients seeking to return to work. Despite emerging clinical management guidelines, long COVID remains a concern in the rehabilitation field. There is a need to establish optimal practices for sustainable rehabilitation paths that enhance the recovery of clients with long COVID, all while understanding the challenges faced by rehabilitation professionals working with this population. Purpose. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of rehabilitation professionals intervening in long COVID rehabilitation with the goal of returning to work. Methods. A qualitative study was conducted involving online semi-structured interviews with rehabilitation professionals in Quebec from public and private sectors across various regions who had experience treating individuals with long COVID. Thematic analysis was employed for data analysis. Findings. Nine rehabilitation professionals participated in the study, yielding five themes: (a) reassessment of RTW goals; (b) education and self-management as primary interventions; (c) gradually reintegrating daily activities and life habits; (d) progression of interventions and dealing with post-exertional malaise (PEM); and (e) challenges in long COVID rehabilitation. Conclusion. Education, gradual activation and self-management appear as central components in supporting patient recovery, however, achieving return to work remains challenging without proper accommodations.},
}

@article {pmid39845978,
year = {2024},
author = {Guerrera, G and Sambucci, M and Timperi, E and Picozza, M and Misiti, A and Placido, R and Corbisiero, S and D'Orso, S and Termine, A and Fabrizio, C and Gargano, F and Eleuteri, S and Marchioni, L and Bordoni, V and Coppola, L and Iannetta, M and Agrati, C and Borsellino, G and Battistini, L},
title = {Identification of an immunological signature of long COVID syndrome.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1502937},
pmid = {39845978},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Female ; Male ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Middle Aged ; *Adaptive Immunity ; *Immunity, Innate ; Immunophenotyping ; Aged ; Adult ; Biomarkers ; CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; Dendritic Cells/immunology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Acute COVID-19 infection causes significant alterations in the innate and adaptive immune systems. While most individuals recover naturally, some develop long COVID (LC) syndrome, marked by persistent or new symptoms weeks to months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Despite its prevalence, there are no clinical tests to distinguish LC patients from those fully recovered. Understanding the immunological basis of LC is essential for improving diagnostic and treatment approaches.

METHODS: We performed deep immunophenotyping and functional assays to examine the immunological profiles of LC patients, individuals with active COVID-19, recovered patients, and healthy donors. This analysis assessed both innate and adaptive immune features, identifying potential biomarkers for LC syndrome. A Binomial Generalized Linear Model (BGLM) was used to pinpoint immune features characterizing LC.

RESULTS: COVID-19 patients exhibited depletion of innate immune cell subsets, including plasmacytoid and conventional dendritic cells, classical, non-classical, and intermediate monocytes, and monocyte-derived inflammatory dendritic cells. Elevated basal inflammation was observed in COVID-19 patients compared to LC patients, whose immune profiles were closer to those of healthy donors and recovered individuals. However, LC patients displayed persistent immune alterations, including reduced T cell subsets (CD4, CD8, Tregs) and switched memory B cells, similar to COVID-19 patients. Through BGLM, a unique adaptive immune signature for LC was identified, featuring memory CD8 and gd T cells with low proliferative capacity and diminished expression of activation and homing receptors.

DISCUSSION: The findings highlight a unique immunological signature associated with LC syndrome, characterized by persistent adaptive immune dysregulation. While LC patients displayed recovery in innate immune profiles comparable to healthy and Recovered individuals, deficits in T cell and memory B cell populations were evident, differentiating LC from full recovery. These findings provide insights into LC pathogenesis and may support the development of diagnostic tools and targeted therapies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Female
Male
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Middle Aged
*Adaptive Immunity
*Immunity, Innate
Immunophenotyping
Aged
Adult
Biomarkers
CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
Dendritic Cells/immunology

@article {pmid39844222,
year = {2025},
author = {Glover, J},
title = {The Latest Evidence.},
journal = {The American journal of nursing},
volume = {125},
number = {2},
pages = {13},
doi = {10.1097/AJN.0000000000000010},
pmid = {39844222},
issn = {1538-7488},
}

@article {pmid39843672,
year = {2025},
author = {Kaufmann, ND and Mazor, KM and Marathe, J and Linas, BP and Fisher, KA},
title = {Primary Care Physicians' Preparedness to Recognize and Evaluate Patients for Long COVID.},
journal = {Journal of general internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39843672},
issn = {1525-1497},
support = {OT2HL158287/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
}

@article {pmid39843527,
year = {2025},
author = {Rajai Firouzabadi, S and Mohammadi, I and Alinejadfard, M and Shafiee, A},
title = {E-cigarettes are not associated with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome among US adults.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {2870},
pmid = {39843527},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; United States/epidemiology ; *Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems/statistics & numerical data ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Vaping/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Young Adult ; Aged ; Adolescent ; Risk Factors ; Smoking/adverse effects ; Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many survivors experiencing post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) with symptoms including fatigue, breathlessness, and cognitive complaints. E-cigarette use has already been associated with increased susceptibility to COVID-19 because of its effects on ACE2 receptor expression and inflammation, raising concern that it might worsen the long-term outcomes of COVID-19, including PCS. While traditional smoking is associated with a higher risk of PCS, the role of e-cigarettes remains unclear due to conflicting evidence. Using 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data, this study investigated the association between e-cigarette use and PCS among US adults who tested positive for COVID-19. The final sample included 107,249 adults after the exclusion of respondents with missing information. It analyzed e-cigarette use (never, former, current) and controlled for key covariates such as age, gender, BMI, smoking, and chronic diseases. The results showed that female gender, obesity, current smoking, and a history of depression, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were significantly associated with higher odds of PCS. Nevertheless, e-cigarette use was not related significantly to increased odds for PCS (current e-cigarette use: aOR = 1.07, 95 CI: 0.96, 1.20; former e-cigarette use: aOR = 1.03, 95 CI: 0.96, 1.12). The mediation analysis showed no indirect effect of the use of e-cigarettes on PCS via COPD. In conclusion our findings did not reveal an independent or indirect association between PCS with e-cigarette use.},
}

Humans
Male
Female
Adult
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Middle Aged
United States/epidemiology
*Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems/statistics & numerical data
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Vaping/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Young Adult
Aged
Adolescent
Risk Factors
Smoking/adverse effects
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

@article {pmid39843379,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, S and Luo, Z and Liu, H and Zhu, J and Zhu, Y and Hou, D and Wei, T and Liu, T and Zheng, C and Zhu, Z and Huang, W and Bai, W and Yu, X and Yuan, H and Bao, W and Zhang, M and Niu, X},
title = {Multicentre, multitime, multidimension, prospective follow-up cohort study on patients during the first wave of COVID-19 in China: a study protocol.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {e083023},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083023},
pmid = {39843379},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; China/epidemiology ; Prospective Studies ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Follow-Up Studies ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Multicenter Studies as Topic ; Research Design ; Male ; Neuroimaging ; Adult ; Female ; Biomarkers/blood ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: During the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in China, the surge of COVID-19 cases was rapid and drastic. Emerging evidence suggests that beyond the acute phase, patients with COVID-19 may experience a wide range of postacute or long COVID sequelae. However, the mechanism and burden of COVID-19, especially long COVID, have not yet been comprehensively clarified. To fill this knowledge gap, this large prospective follow-up study aims to investigate the short-term and long-term effects of COVID-19, explore the underlying biological mechanism and identify predictive neuroimaging and haematological biomarkers associated with these effects.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This multicentre study will recruit patients infected during the first wave of COVID-19 in China and healthy controls (HCs) with no history of COVID-19 infection from nine participating hospitals. Confirmed patients with mild or moderate COVID-19 will complete the following programmes during the acute infection phase and at 3, 12 and 24 months after infection: (a) blood test at the local laboratory, (b) multimodal brain and spine MRI scan and (c) the neuropsychological scales and questionnaires. Similarly, the uninfected HCs will complete the same programmes as the infected group mentioned above at the time of inclusion. At the first time point, 501 participants (418 patients and 83 HCs) from nine recruiting hospitals have been observed. Ultimately, all of these results will be analysed to explore the short-term and long-term effects of COVID-19.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval was granted by Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU1AF2023LSK-013). Findings will be presented at national and international conferences, as well as published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05745805.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
China/epidemiology
Prospective Studies
*SARS-CoV-2
Follow-Up Studies
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Multicenter Studies as Topic
Research Design
Male
Neuroimaging
Adult
Female
Biomarkers/blood
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39842946,
year = {2025},
author = {Bartsch, SM and Chin, KL and Strych, U and John, DC and Shah, TD and Bottazzi, ME and O'Shea, KJ and Robertson, M and Weatherwax, C and Heneghan, J and Martinez, MF and Ciciriello, A and Kulkarni, S and Velmurugan, K and Dibbs, A and Scannell, SA and Shen, Y and Nash, D and Hotez, PJ and Lee, BY},
title = {The Current and Future Burden of Long COVID in the United States (U.S.).},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf030},
pmid = {39842946},
issn = {1537-6613},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID, which affects an estimated 44.69-48.04 million people in the U.S., is an ongoing public health concern that will continue to grow as SARS-CoV-2 continues to spread.

METHODS: We developed a computational simulation model representing the clinical course, the health effects, and the associated costs of a person with Long COVID.

RESULTS: Simulations show that the average total cost of a Long COVID case can range from $5,084-$11,646 (assuming symptoms only last 1 year) with 92.5%-95.2% of these costs being productivity losses. Therefore, the current number of Long COVID cases could end up costing society at least $2.01-$6.56 billion, employers at least $1.99-$6.49 billion in productivity losses, and third-party payers $21-68.5 million annually (6%-20% probability of developing Long COVID). These cases would accrue 35,808-121,259 QALYs lost and 13,484-45,468 DALYs. Moreover, each year, there may be an additional $698.5 million in total costs, 14,685 QALYs lost, and 5,628 DALYs, if the incidence of COVID is 100 per 10,000 persons (similar to that seen in 2023). Every 10-point increase in COVID incidence results in an additional $365 million in total costs, 5,070 QALYs lost, and 1,900 DALYs each year.

CONCLUSION: The current health and economic burden of Long COVID may already exceed that of a number of other chronic disease and will continue to grow each year as there are more and more COVID-19 cases. This could be a significant drain on businesses, third party payers, the healthcare system, and all of society.},
}

@article {pmid39842849,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, D and Kavanagh, S and Bowe, S and Tan, E and Moodie, M and Gao, L},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on hospitalization for heart failure: a perspective from Victoria, Australia.},
journal = {European journal of cardiovascular nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/eurjcn/zvae180},
pmid = {39842849},
issn = {1873-1953},
support = {//Institute for Health Transformation Category 1 Seed Funding Grant/ ; //Deakin University/ ; },
abstract = {AIMS: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare systems and possibly impacted the management of heart failure (HF). This study examined the impact of the pandemic on HF hospitalization activities, outcomes, and costs in Victoria, Australia.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Data on HF hospitalizations were acquired from the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset. All consecutive patients hospitalized for HF in both public and private hospitals in Victoria between February 2019 and March 2021 were extracted using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision, Australian Modification. Data were analysed using descriptive analysis and interrupted time series analysis. A total of 85 564 completed admissions were identified, of which 45 080 were hospitalized in the pre-COVID-19 period and 40 484 were hospitalized in the COVID-19 impacted period. A higher average cost per completed admission in the COVID-19 impacted period was observed, while average length of stay (LOS) was not different between the two periods. It was revealed that monthly total LOS and hospitalization activity cost across all HF admissions dropped at the beginning of the pandemic and continued to decrease until the end of the observation period. However, these changes were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION: The impacts of COVID-19 on HF hospitalization activities and associated outcomes at the beginning of the pandemic appeared relatively small and were not sustained. Further studies using other data (i.e. linkage data) are required to understand if, or how, the pandemic impacted on HF management in Australia, especially in the long COVID-19 era.},
}

@article {pmid39842842,
year = {2025},
author = {Lu, Y and Lindaas, A and Izurieta, HS and Cozen, M and Menis, M and Shi, X and Steele, WR and Wernecke, M and Chillarige, Y and Kelman, JA and Forshee, RA},
title = {Lessons Learned From Characterizing Long COVID Among US Medicare Beneficiaries.},
journal = {Pharmacoepidemiology and drug safety},
volume = {34},
number = {2},
pages = {e70101},
doi = {10.1002/pds.70101},
pmid = {39842842},
issn = {1099-1557},
support = {02309-075-075-013007/FD/FDA HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; United States/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Medicare/statistics & numerical data ; Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Male ; Female ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Fee-for-Service Plans/statistics & numerical data ; Nursing Homes/statistics & numerical data ; Incidence ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To characterize long-term effects of COVID-19 among older adults (aged ≥ 65 years).

METHODS: This retrospective descriptive study utilized Medicare Fee-for-Service beneficiaries' claims to characterize post-COVID condition diagnosis code usage, long COVID (defined as post-COVID condition diagnoses made ≥ 28 days after an initial COVID-19 diagnosis) incidence, patient demographics, and concurrent diagnoses.

RESULTS: During April 1, 2020 to May 21, 2022, 193 691 (0.6%) of 31 847 927 Medicare beneficiaries were diagnosed with post-COVID conditions using ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes U09.9 and B94.8, regardless of prior COVID-19 diagnosis. Post-COVID condition diagnosis rate was higher among nursing home residents (18.7 per 1000 person-years) than community-dwelling beneficiaries (2.8). Among community-dwelling beneficiaries with a post-COVID condition diagnosis, 17.5% did not have any prior COVID-19 diagnosis code U07.1 recorded. Among beneficiaries with COVID-19 diagnosis, there were no significant sex, age, or race/ethnicity differences between those with post-COVID conditions ≥ 28 days after COVID-19 (i.e., long COVID) and those without post-COVID conditions. Certain myopathies and interstitial pulmonary disease codes were disproportionately present concurrently with long COVID compared to COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS: In this large study of 32 million Medicare beneficiaries, we found approximately 194 000 post-COVID condition diagnoses. Post-COVID condition diagnosis rate was higher among nursing home residents, highlighting the substantial burden of COVID-19 in this vulnerable population. Community-dwelling beneficiaries were less likely to seek medical care for COVID-19 events than nursing home residents, which may suggest differences in COVID-19 severity and respiratory disease detection between these populations. Long COVID risk after COVID-19 infection may be similar across demographic groups.},
}

Humans
United States/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Medicare/statistics & numerical data
Aged
Retrospective Studies
Male
Female
Aged, 80 and over
*Fee-for-Service Plans/statistics & numerical data
Nursing Homes/statistics & numerical data
Incidence
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39841477,
year = {2025},
author = {Shah, DP and Thaweethai, T and Karlson, EW and Bonilla, H and Horne, BD and Mullington, JM and Wisnivesky, JP and Hornig, M and Shinnick, DJ and Klein, JD and Erdmann, NB and Brosnahan, SB and Lee-Iannotti, JK and Metz, TD and Maughan, C and Ofotokun, I and Reeder, HT and Stiles, LE and Shaukat, A and Hess, R and Ashktorab, H and Bartram, L and Bassett, IV and Becker, JH and Brim, H and Charney, AW and Chopra, T and Clifton, RG and Deeks, SG and Erlandson, KM and Fierer, DS and Flaherman, VJ and Fonseca, V and Gander, JC and Hodder, SL and Jacoby, VL and Kotini-Shah, P and Krishnan, JA and Kumar, A and Levy, BD and Lieberman, D and Lin, JJ and Martin, JN and McComsey, GA and Moukabary, T and Okumura, MJ and Peluso, MJ and Rosen, CJ and Saade, G and Shah, PK and Sherif, ZA and Taylor, BS and Tuttle, KR and Urdaneta, AE and Wallick, JA and Wiley, Z and Zhang, D and Horwitz, LI and Foulkes, AS and Singer, NG and , },
title = {Sex Differences in Long COVID.},
journal = {JAMA network open},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {e2455430},
doi = {10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.55430},
pmid = {39841477},
issn = {2574-3805},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Sex Factors ; United States/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Cohort Studies ; Aged ; Risk Factors ; Prospective Studies ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: A substantial number of individuals worldwide experience long COVID, or post-COVID condition. Other postviral and autoimmune conditions have a female predominance, but whether the same is true for long COVID, especially within different subgroups, is uncertain.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate sex differences in the risk of developing long COVID among adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

This cohort study used data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER)-Adult cohort, which consists of individuals enrolled in and prospectively followed up at 83 sites in 33 US states plus Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico. Data were examined from all participants enrolled between October 29, 2021, and July 5, 2024, who had a qualifying study visit 6 months or more after their initial SARS-CoV-2 infection.

EXPOSURE: Self-reported sex (male, female) assigned at birth.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Development of long COVID, measured using a self-reported symptom-based questionnaire and scoring guideline at the first study visit that occurred at least 6 months after infection. Propensity score matching was used to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and risk differences (95% CIs). The full model included demographic and clinical characteristics and social determinants of health, and the reduced model included only age, race, and ethnicity.

RESULTS: Among 12 276 participants who had experienced SARS-CoV-2 infection (8969 [73%] female; mean [SD] age at infection, 46 [15] years), female sex was associated with higher risk of long COVID in the primary full (RR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.06-1.62) and reduced (RR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.17-1.77) models. This finding was observed across all age groups except 18 to 39 years (RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.72-1.49). Female sex was associated with significantly higher overall long COVID risk when the analysis was restricted to nonpregnant participants (RR, 1.50; 95%: CI, 1.27-1.77). Among participants aged 40 to 54 years, the risk ratio was 1.42 (95% CI, 0.99-2.03) in menopausal female participants and 1.45 (95% CI, 1.15-1.83) in nonmenopausal female participants compared with male participants.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this prospective cohort study of the NIH RECOVER-Adult cohort, female sex was associated with an increased risk of long COVID compared with male sex, and this association was age, pregnancy, and menopausal status dependent. These findings highlight the need to identify biological mechanisms contributing to sex specificity to facilitate risk stratification, targeted drug development, and improved management of long COVID.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Middle Aged
Adult
*SARS-CoV-2
Sex Factors
United States/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Cohort Studies
Aged
Risk Factors
Prospective Studies

@article {pmid39841332,
year = {2025},
author = {Hira, R and Baker, JR and Siddiqui, T and Patel, A and Valani, FGA and Lloyd, MG and Floras, JS and Morillo, CA and Sheldon, RS and Raj, SR and , },
title = {Attenuated cardiac autonomic function in patients with long-COVID with impaired orthostatic hemodynamics.},
journal = {Clinical autonomic research : official journal of the Clinical Autonomic Research Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39841332},
issn = {1619-1560},
support = {G4A- 177741/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; NIH UL1-TR000445//Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research/ ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Long-coronavirus disease (long-COVID) is associated with initial orthostatic hypotension and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Whether altered autonomic tone underlies these abnormalities is unknown. We compared autonomic function between patients with long-COVID and healthy controls, and within patients with long-COVID with different orthostatic hemodynamic phenotypes.

METHODS: Patients with long-COVID (n = 94; F = 76; 42 years [36, 53 years] with initial orthostatic hypotension: n = 40; F = 32; 49 years [39, 57 years]; postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome: n = 29; F = 26; 39 years [33, 47 years]; or no abnormalities: n = 25; F = 18; 42 years [35, 49 years]), and healthy controls (n = 33; F = 25; 49 years [30, 62 years]) completed a 10-min active stand with beat-to-beat hemodynamics. Heart rate variability, blood pressure variability, and baroreflex sensitivity were calculated as indirect measures of cardiovascular autonomic health. Continuous data (median [95% confidence interval]) were analyzed with Mann-Whitney U tests or Kruskal-Wallis tests with Dunn's corrections.

RESULTS: Patients with long-COVID had lower upright high frequency heart rate variability (p = 0.04) and low frequency blood pressure variability (p = 0.001) than controls. Patients with initial orthostatic hypotension had lower supine baroreflex sensitivity compared with patients without abnormalities (p = 0.01), and lower supine baroreflex sensitivity (p = 0.001) and high frequency heart rate variability (p = 0.03) than patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome had lower upright high frequency heart rate variability (p < 0.001) and baroreflex sensitivity (p < 0.001) compared with patients without abnormalities and lower upright low frequency blood pressure variability (p = 0.04) compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients with long-COVID have attenuated cardiac autonomic function. Patients with initial orthostatic hypotension have lower supine baroreflex sensitivity. Patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome have lower upright vascular sympathetic and cardiac parasympathetic modulation. Long-COVID subgroups do not present with homogeneous pathophysiology, necessitating targeted treatment strategies.},
}

@article {pmid39840178,
year = {2024},
author = {Sarkar, A and Speiser, E and Dara, S and Ogedegbe, C and Chinnery, P and Estanbouli, MT and Kasselman, L and Kligler, B and Gourna Paleoudis, E and Parulekar, M},
title = {The Feasibility of Omega-3 Supplementation Compared to Placebo in the Management of Long COVID Symptoms Among Healthcare Workers: A Randomized Controlled Trial.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {e76148},
pmid = {39840178},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is known to cause significant multisystem inflammatory responses, leading to symptoms beyond the acute phase of illness. These "long COVID" symptoms affect quality of life and interfere with daily activities. This pilot study looks at the feasibility, tolerability, and safety of omega-3 (docosahexaenoic acid+eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA) among healthcare workers with long COVID symptoms in New Jersey.

METHODS:  This double-blind, randomized-controlled pilot trial used self-administered omega-3 vs. placebo for 12 weeks in healthcare workers. The enrollment period was from October 2021 to March 2023. Participants were monitored weekly for compliance and adverse effects. They completed the Symptoms and Quality of Life survey biweekly. Baseline and week-12 blood test for omega-3 levels and arachidonic acid (AA):EPA ratio was also measured and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables at 12 weeks. An independent sample t-test was conducted to compare the ages of the treatment groups. Fisher's exact tests were conducted on each outcome by the treatment arm. No adjustments for multiple testing were included; therefore, significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Analyses were conducted using R version 4.3.3 (R Core Team, Vienna, Austria).

RESULTS:  Thirty-two healthcare workers were recruited, and 18 completed the study. Feasibility was assessed based on enrollment and compliance with the study protocol. There was no significant difference in age between the placebo and treatment groups. The intervention group did not show significant improvement in the long COVID symptoms: shortness of breath (p = 0.39), cough (p = 0.76), fatigue (p = 0.57), lack of taste (p = 0.10), and lack of smell (p = 0.10). In the placebo group, baseline average omega-3 and AA:EPA ratio were 4.09 (standard deviation, SD = 0.85) and 23.9 (SD = 13.4), respectively, and week-12 omega-3 and AA:EPA ratio were 4.46 (SD = 0.95) and 20.8 (SD = 6.0), respectively. For the supplement group, baseline average omega 3 and AA:EPA ratio were 3.75 (SD = 0.48) and 23.1 (SD = 8.3), respectively, and week-12 omega-3 and AA:EPA ratio were 5.97 (SD = 1.93) and 11.8 (SD = 14.0), respectively. One supplement-treated participant and five placebo-treated participants experienced adverse events. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS:  This pilot study successfully demonstrated the feasibility, safety, and tolerability of using omega-3 supplements for the treatment of long COVID syndrome. The study results did not show statistically significant improvement in the long COVID symptoms. The mean difference in the AA:EPA ratio in the placebo vs. supplement group showed a pronounced decline in inflammatory markers in the supplement group. However, our study did not show a connection between the decreased inflammatory markers and clinical symptoms. We may need a longer follow-up to understand the possible clinical benefits of the decreased AA:EPA ratio.},
}

@article {pmid39839604,
year = {2024},
author = {Nava, R and Benatti, B and Girone, N and Macellaro, M and Pellicioli, C and Maggioni, L and Marcatili, M and Dell'Osso, B and Clerici, M},
title = {Assessing the Fear of Covid-19 in Psychiatric Patients: Results from an Italian Multicentric Study.},
journal = {Clinical neuropsychiatry},
volume = {21},
number = {6},
pages = {529-537},
pmid = {39839604},
issn = {2385-0787},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Even though the COVID-19 emergency has concluded, its consequences are still relevant. Recent evidence suggests that a significant proportion of individuals experience persistent symptoms long after the initial infection has resolved, classified as "Long COVID" condition. Fear of COVID-19 increases anxiety and stress levels in healthy individuals and exacerbates the symptoms of those with pre-existing psychiatric disorders; therefore understanding the impact of the pandemic on psychiatric disorders remains of utmost importance. The present study aimed at assessing the prevalence and predictive factors of fear of COVID-19 in a sample of patients with different psychiatric conditions.

METHOD: A sample of 269 psychiatric patients were recruited from two different tertiary clinics in Italy and assessed with the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S). In order to compare patients with a significant fear of COVID-19 or without (Fear+ vs. Fear-) and to identify the main features in terms of clinical dimension, exploratory and predictive analysis were performed.

RESULTS: Female gender, age at illness onset, and insight levels emerged as positive predictors of FCV-19S. Conversely, current substance abuse emerged as a negative predictor of fear levels. Moreover, significantly lower FCV-19S scores were observed in patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

CONCLUSIONS: Specific sociodemographic and clinical factors predicted higher levels of fear of COVID-19 in psychiatric patients. Further studies are warranted to determine the potential long-term consequences of the COVID-19 impact on mental health.},
}

@article {pmid39839305,
year = {2024},
author = {Gonzalez Aleman, G and Vavougios, GD and Tartaglia, C and Uvais, NA and Guekht, A and Hosseini, AA and Lo Re, V and Ferreccio, C and D'Avossa, G and Zamponi, HP and Figueredo Aguiar, M and Yecora, A and Ul Haq Katshu, MZ and Stavrou, VT and Boutlas, S and Gourgoulianis, KI and Botero, C and González Insúa, F and Perez-Lloret, S and Zinchuk, M and Gersamija, A and Popova, S and Bryzgalova, Y and Sviatskaya, E and Russelli, G and Avorio, F and Wang, S and Edison, P and Niimi, Y and Sohrabi, HR and Mukaetova Ladinska, EB and Neidre, D and de Erausquin, GA},
title = {Age-dependent phenotypes of cognitive impairment as sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in aging neuroscience},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1432357},
pmid = {39839305},
issn = {1663-4365},
abstract = {Cognitive changes associated with PASC may not be uniform across populations. We conducted individual-level pooled analyses and meta-analyses of cognitive assessments from eight prospective cohorts, comprising 2,105 patients and 1,432 controls from Argentina, Canada, Chile, Greece, India, Italy, Russia, and the UK. The meta-analysis found no differences by country of origin. The profile and severity of cognitive impairment varied by age, with mild attentional impairment observed in young and middle-aged adults, but memory, language, and executive function impairment in older adults. The risk of moderate to severe impairment doubled in older adults. Moderately severe or severe impairment was significantly associated with infection diagnoses (chi-square = 26.57, p ≤ 0.0001) and the severity of anosmia (chi-square = 31.81, p ≤ 0.0001). We found distinct age-related phenotypes of cognitive impairment in patients recovering from COVID-19. We identified the severity of acute illness and the presence of olfactory dysfunction as the primary predictors of dementia-like impairment in older adults.},
}

@article {pmid39838139,
year = {2025},
author = {Ruiz de Lazcano, A and Pérez-Núñez, P and Pallarès-Sastre, M and García-Sanchoyerto, M and García, I and Amayra, I},
title = {Long-COVID and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome: a preliminary comparison of neuropsychological performance.},
journal = {Clinical autonomic research : official journal of the Clinical Autonomic Research Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39838139},
issn = {1619-1560},
abstract = {PURPOSE: The aim of the study is to analyze and compare the cognitive profile between 59 patients with long-COVID [LC; 30 of them with and 29 without a positive coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) confirmatory test] and 31 patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and a matched group of 39 healthy control participants.

METHODS: Participants were examined on a battery of neuropsychological tests, including verbal memory, visuospatial abilities, attention, processing speed, verbal fluency, working memory, and visual memory. Anxious-depressive symptomatology was also analyzed and then controlled for possible influence on cognitive performance.

RESULTS: Patients with LC and POTS showed significantly lower performance compared with healthy peers. Differences on anxious and depressive symptoms were also found between the clinical and control groups, resulting in LC without a positive confirmatory test group exhibiting the highest rates of anxious symptoms. After controlling the effects of anxious-depressive symptomatology, the differences were eliminated for some of the cognitive variables, but additional differences were found between patients with LC and POTS after post hoc analysis.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings from the present study contribute toward the reinforcement of the evidence on cognitive alterations associated with LC and POTS. Anxious-depressive symptomatology has to be considered in both clinical groups since it could be affecting cognitive performance.},
}

@article {pmid39838062,
year = {2025},
author = {Garcia-Molina, G and Guzenko, D and DeFranco, S and Aloia, MS and Mills, R and Mushtaq, F and Somers, VK and Van Cauter, E},
title = {Sleep and cardiorespiratory function assessed by a smart bed over 10 weeks post COVID-19 infection.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {2724},
pmid = {39838062},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/epidemiology/complications ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; *Sleep/physiology ; Adult ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Heart Rate/physiology ; Bradycardia/physiopathology ; Beds ; Respiratory Rate ; },
abstract = {Inadequate information exists regarding physiological changes post-COVID-19 infection. We used smart beds to record biometric data following COVID-19 infection in nonhospitalized patients. Recordings of daily biometric signals over 14 weeks in 59 COVID-positive participants' homes in 2020 were compared with the same participants' data from 2019. Participants completed a survey of demographic information, health conditions, COVID exposure and testing, and symptom prevalence/subjective severity. Mean age was 47.5 years (standard deviation [SD] 9.5), mean body mass index was 30.1 kg/m[2] (SD 7.1), and 46% were men. During acute infection, 64% exhibited 5-6 h increased sleep duration, 51% had increased movement, and 64% had increased breathing rate (BR). Nearly 34% had paradoxical bradycardia (decreased heart rate by ~ 10 BPM concomitant with elevated BR and/or fever), with more-severe symptoms. Smart beds can detect physiological changes during COVID-19. A subtype of acute response (paradoxical bradycardia) may predict delay recovery from COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/epidemiology/complications
Male
Middle Aged
Female
*Sleep/physiology
Adult
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Heart Rate/physiology
Bradycardia/physiopathology
Beds
Respiratory Rate

@article {pmid39837753,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, S and Dong, W and Dai, B and Wang, W and Tan, W},
title = {Telerehabilitation in patients with long COVID-19 syndrome.},
journal = {European journal of internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejim.2025.01.010},
pmid = {39837753},
issn = {1879-0828},
}

@article {pmid39837387,
year = {2025},
author = {Mendes, S and Guimarães, LC and de Oliveira, LC and Costa, PAC and da Silva, NJA and Pereira, GSAP and Fernandez, CC and Figueiredo, MM and Dos Santos, RAS and Teixeira, MM and Costa, VV and Guimarães, PPG and Frézard, F},
title = {Intranasal liposomal remdesivir induces SARS-CoV-2 clearance in K18-hACE2 mice and ensures survival.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.01.044},
pmid = {39837387},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {A huge challenge after the emergence of COVID-19 has been the discovery of effective antiviral drugs. Although remdesivir (RDV) emerged as one of the most promising drugs, its pharmaceutical formulation Veklury® is limited by moderate efficacy, high toxicity and need for parenteral administration. The aim of the present work was to develop a liposomal formulation of RDV for pulmonary administration and evaluate its efficacy in models of COVID-19. Liposomal RDV nanoformulation (LRDV) was selected based on high drug encapsulation efficiency, sustained drug release property and high in vitro selectivity index. A pharmacokinetic study of intranasal LRDV in mice demonstrated effective delivery of the drug to the lungs. LRDV was then evaluated for its efficacy in SARS-CoV-2-infected K18-hACE2 mice after repeated intranasal administration at 10 mg/kg/bid for 5 days. Veklury® given intraperitoneally at 20 mg/kg/bid was used for comparison. Mice receiving LRDV remained alive up to 15 days post-infection (dpi). On the other hand, the control groups receiving PBS and empty liposomes showed 100 % death at 6 dpi and the Veklury® group had 62.5 % death at 8 dpi. Intranasal LRDV also promoted a strong reduction in viral loads in the brain and lungs of mice and prevented the inflammatory response induced by SARS-CoV-2 in the lungs. This is in contrast with Veklury®, which did not significantly reduce the viral titer in the brain and was poorly effective in preventing the inflammatory response in the lungs. Intranasal LRDV emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy for COVID-19, including "Long COVID".},
}

@article {pmid39836023,
year = {2025},
author = {Baig, AM and Rosko, S and Jaeger, B and Gerlach, J},
title = {Strategic Inhibition of CHRM Autoantibodies: Molecular Insights and Therapeutic Potentials in Long COVID.},
journal = {Journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00691},
pmid = {39836023},
issn = {1520-4804},
abstract = {In addition to the conventional symptoms reported for COVID-19, it is becoming increasingly clear that patients with long COVID are exhibiting new symptoms due to the emergence of autoantibodies against G-protein-coupled receptors, among which human muscarinic cholinergic receptors (CHRMs) have been prominently reported. With a chronic condition such as long COVID, additional symptoms caused by anti-CHRM autoantibodies (AAbs) have proven to be an added burden on these patients. The origins of these AAbs, their interactions with, and effects on the function of neural and non-neural cells within the nervous system have remained unknown. Furthermore, the specific symptom complex to which they contribute has not been clearly understood. In this context, we address these issues here and suggest methods to combat the autoantibodies that contribute to neurological symptoms in long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid39835117,
year = {2024},
author = {Galipeau, Y and Cooper, C and Langlois, MA},
title = {Autoantibodies in COVID-19: implications for disease severity and clinical outcomes.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1509289},
doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2024.1509289},
pmid = {39835117},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Autoantibodies/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Severity of Illness Index ; Autoimmunity ; Autoimmune Diseases/immunology ; },
abstract = {Few pathogens have historically been subjected to as intense scientific and clinical scrutiny as SARS-CoV-2. The genetic, immunological, and environmental factors influencing disease severity and post-infection clinical outcomes, known as correlates of immunity, remain largely undefined. Clinical outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection vary widely, ranging from asymptomatic cases to those with life-threatening COVID-19 symptoms. While most infected individuals return to their former health and fitness within a few weeks, some develop debilitating chronic symptoms, referred to as long-COVID. Autoimmune responses have been proposed as one of the factors influencing long-COVID and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The association between viral infections and autoimmune pathologies is not new. Viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus, among others, have been shown to induce the production of autoantibodies and the onset of autoimmune conditions. Given the extensive literature on SARS-CoV-2, here we review current evidence on SARS-CoV-2-induced autoimmune pathologies, with a focus on autoantibodies. We closely examine mechanisms driving autoantibody production, particularly their connection with disease severity and long-COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Autoantibodies/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Severity of Illness Index
Autoimmunity
Autoimmune Diseases/immunology

@article {pmid39834716,
year = {2025},
author = {Gharibzadeh, S and Routen, A and Razieh, C and Zaccardi, F and Lawson, C and Gillies, C and Heller, S and Davies, M and Atkins, H and Bain, SC and Lone, NL and Poinasamy, K and Peto, T and Robertson, E and Young, B and Johnston, D and Quint, J and Valabhji, J and Ismail, K and Marks, M and Horsley, A and Docherty, A and Harrison, E and Chalmers, J and Ho, LP and Raman, B and Brightling, C and Elneima, O and Evans, R and Greening, N and Harris, VC and Houchen-Wolloff, L and Sereno, M and Shikotra, A and Singapuri, A and Wain, L and Langenberg, C and Dennis, J and Petrie, J and Sattar, N and Leavy, O and Richardson, M and Saunders, RM and McArdle, A and McASuley, H and Yates, T and Khunti, K and , },
title = {Long term health outcomes in people with diabetes 12 months after hospitalisation with COVID-19 in the UK: a prospective cohort study.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {103005},
doi = {10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.103005},
pmid = {39834716},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: People with diabetes are at increased risk of hospitalisation, morbidity, and mortality following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Long-term outcomes for people with diabetes previously hospitalised with COVID-19 are, however, unknown. This study aimed to determine the longer-term physical and mental health effects of COVID-19 in people with and without diabetes.

METHODS: The PHOSP-COVID study is a multicentre, long-term follow-up study of adults discharged from hospital between 1 February 2020 and 31 March 2021 in the UK following COVID-19, involving detailed assessment at 5 and 12 months after discharge. The association between diabetes status and outcomes were explored using multivariable linear and logistic regressions.

FINDINGS: People with diabetes who survived hospital admission with COVID-19 display worse physical outcomes compared to those without diabetes at 5- and 12-month follow-up. People with diabetes displayed higher fatigue (only at 5 months), frailty, lower physical performance, and health-related quality of life and poorer cognitive function. Differences in outcomes between diabetes status groups were largely consistent from 5 to 12-months. In regression models, differences at 5 and 12 months were attenuated after adjustment for BMI and presence of other long-term conditions.

INTERPRETATION: People with diabetes reported worse physical outcomes up to 12 months after hospital discharge with COVID-19 compared to those without diabetes. These data support the need to reduce inequalities in long-term physical and mental health effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in people with diabetes.

FUNDING: UK Research and Innovation and National Institute for Health Research. The study was approved by the Leeds West Research Ethics Committee (20/YH/0225) and is registered on the ISRCTN Registry (ISRCTN10980107).},
}

@article {pmid39832327,
year = {2024},
author = {Ramírez-García, SA and Hernández-Osorio, LA and Montero-Toledo, E},
title = {Reply to the letter "New perspectives in the management of SARS-CoV-2 Pirola variants and the development of long COVID syndrome: anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies and qRT-PCR".},
journal = {Gaceta medica de Mexico},
volume = {160},
number = {4},
pages = {452-453},
doi = {10.24875/GMM.M24000923},
pmid = {39832327},
issn = {0016-3813},
}

@article {pmid39832320,
year = {2024},
author = {Rabadán-Martínez, CE},
title = {New perspectives in the management of SARS-CoV-2 Pirola variants and the development of long COVID syndrome: anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies and qRT-PC.},
journal = {Gaceta medica de Mexico},
volume = {160},
number = {4},
pages = {450-451},
doi = {10.24875/GMM.M24000922},
pmid = {39832320},
issn = {0016-3813},
}

@article {pmid39832242,
year = {2024},
author = {Ozkan, MB and Ozsahin, A and Emre, N and Edirne, T and Kınacı Çimen, Y},
title = {Ongoing post-COVID-19 symptoms and complaints among healthcare professionals.},
journal = {Journal of infection in developing countries},
volume = {18},
number = {12},
pages = {1846-1854},
doi = {10.3855/jidc.19368},
pmid = {39832242},
issn = {1972-2680},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/diagnosis ; Male ; Female ; *Health Personnel/statistics & numerical data ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Fatigue/etiology ; Young Adult ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Post-COVID-19 syndrome refers to the occurrence of symptoms lasting more than 4 weeks in individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. This study aims to investigate the post-COVID-19 symptoms in healthcare professionals.

METHODOLOGY: This descriptive study included 166 healthcare professionals who had tested positive for COVID-19 via PCR at least four weeks prior and subsequently presented to the Family Medicine Clinic at Pamukkale University Training and Research Hospital. Participants` demographic data, medical history, COVID-19 history and ongoing or newly emerged complaints and symptoms were evaluated, and physical examinations were carried out and recorded on a patient information form. Blood tests were conducted, and the results were analyzed.

RESULTS: The most common post-COVID-19 symptoms and complaints observed in our study were difficulty in performing daily activities (32.5%; n = 54), fatigue (26.5%; n = 44), forgetfulness (25.9%; n = 43) and weakness (24.1%; n = 40), respectively. Smoking, alcohol use, hospitalization, the need for oxygen support and having comorbidities such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension and rheumatism were found to be associated with various post-acute symptoms. Post-acute symptoms were most frequently observed in individuals vaccinated with Sinovac (38.5%), followed by those who were unvaccinated (35.7%). Least symptoms were seen in individuals vaccinated with only Biontech (15.4%).

CONCLUSIONS: The most common post-COVID-19 symptoms observed in our study were difficulty in performing daily activities, fatigue, forgetfulness and weakness. Having comorbidities was found to be associated with various post-COVID-19 symptoms.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/diagnosis
Male
Female
*Health Personnel/statistics & numerical data
Adult
Middle Aged
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Fatigue/etiology
Young Adult

@article {pmid39832090,
year = {2025},
author = {Niewiadomski, P and Ortega-Ortega, M and Łyszczarz, B},
title = {Productivity Losses due to Health Problems Arising from COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of Population-Level Studies Worldwide.},
journal = {Applied health economics and health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39832090},
issn = {1179-1896},
support = {2022/47/B/HS4/00081//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; 2022/47/B/HS4/00081//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; },
abstract = {AIM: To systematically review the evidence on productivity losses due to health problems arising from the COVID-19 pandemic based on evidence from population-level studies.

METHODS: Following PRISMA statement, we conducted a systematic review using Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, EconLit, WHO COVID-19 Research and EuropePMC databases and a grey literature search. We included population-level studies using secondary data and qualitatively assessed eligible studies. For a quantitative cross-study comparison, we calculated losses in 2020 international dollars and as a share of gross domestic product. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023478059.

RESULTS: Thirty-eight studies were eligible for review, most of which reported losses in high-income countries and the European region. COVID-19 was a focus of 33 studies while 3 studies investigated losses from both long COVID and excess mortality. The Human Capital Approach dominated (30 studies) and no study used the Friction Cost Approach. Most studies (84%) reported on premature mortality losses and a quarter provided estimates of losses due to absenteeism. Of the 33 studies eligible for quantitative comparison, we found that the productivity losses ranged from 0 to 2.1% of gross domestic product; the greatest losses were in the high-income countries and for those aged 40-59 years; and losses among men contributed to around 3/4 of the total burden.

CONCLUSION: The available evidence on the topic is limited, particularly considering the methodological approaches used. Thus, more research is needed to reach a more comprehensive understanding of economy-level productivity losses resulting from the recent COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid39830383,
year = {2024},
author = {Liu, W and Feng, Q and Yuan, X and Lu, C and Wang, S and Yuan, Y},
title = {Diagnostic value of lung function tests in long COVID: analysis of positive bronchial provocation test outcomes.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {1512658},
doi = {10.3389/fmed.2024.1512658},
pmid = {39830383},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID patients are prone to bronchial hyperresponsiveness and respiratory symptoms like coughing and breathing difficulties, often with positive bronchial provocation test (BPT) results.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic value of various lung function tests in patients with long-term COVID-19, explicitly focusing on positive BPT outcomes.

METHODS: Our study analyzed the BPT outcomes and various pulmonary function parameters of all 9,406 COVID-19 patients who met the inclusion criteria and visited our hospital between February 24, 2022, and April 28, 2024. Key indicators included forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and single-breath diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCOc SB). A logistic regression model was employed to identify factors influencing positive BPT results, while the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the diagnostic efficacy of these indicators.

RESULTS: A total of 4211 valid samples were analyzed, with 3388 patients (80.46%) testing positive for BPT. Significant differences were observed between positive and negative groups regarding age, gender, smoking status (all P < 0.05), and specific lung function indicators, including FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, maximum of vital capacity (VC max), and DLCOc SB (all P < 0.001). Logistic regression identified age, MEF50, and DLCOc SB as independent factors influencing positive BPT results. The area under the ROC curve for all assessed factors was <0.700, indicating limited diagnostic value.

CONCLUSION: Age, the small airway function indicator MEF50, and the pulmonary diffusion function indicator DLCOc SB are independent influencing factors for BPT positivity in long-term COVID patients. However, baseline data and lung function indicators have limited utility for diagnosing positive BPT in this population, highlighting the complex nature of post-COVID respiratory symptoms.},
}

@article {pmid39830235,
year = {2025},
author = {Hou, Y and Gu, T and Ni, Z and Shi, X and Ranney, ML and Mukherjee, B},
title = {Global Prevalence of Long COVID, its Subtypes and Risk factors: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.01.01.24319384},
pmid = {39830235},
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Updated knowledge regarding the global prevalence of long COVID (or post-COVID-19 condition), its subtypes, risk factors, and variations across different follow-up durations and geographical regions is necessary for informed public health recommendations and healthcare delivery.

OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the global prevalence of long COVID and its subtypes and symptoms in individuals with confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis, while the secondary objective is to assess risk factors for long COVID in the same population.

DATA SOURCES: Studies on long COVID published from July 5, 2021, to May 29, 2024, searched from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were used for this systematic review. Supplemental updates to the original search period were made.

STUDY SELECTION: There were four inclusion criteria: (1) human study population with confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis; (2) appropriate index diagnosis date; (3) outcome must include either prevalence, risk factors, duration, or symptoms of long COVID; and (4) follow-up time of at least two months after the index date. The exclusion criteria were: (1) non-human study population; (1) case studies or reviews; (2) studies with imaging, molecular, and/or cellular testing as primary results; (3) studies with specific populations such as healthcare workers, residents of nursing homes, and/or those living in long-term care facilities; and (4) studies that did not meet the sample size threshold needed to estimate overall prevalence with margin of error of 0.05.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two screeners independently performed screenings and data extraction, and decision conflicts were collectively resolved. The data were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis framework with a DerSimonian-Laird inverse variance weighted estimator.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary estimand (target population parameter of interest) was the prevalence of long COVID and its subtypes among individuals with confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses, and the secondary estimand was effect sizes corresponding to ten common risk factors of long COVID in the same population.

RESULTS: A total of 442 studies were included in this mega-systematic review, and 429 were meta-analyzed for various endpoints, avoiding duplicate estimates from the same study. Of the 442 studies, 17.9% of the studies have a high risk of bias. Heterogeneity is evident among meta-analyzed studies, where the I [2] statistic is nearly 100% in studies that estimate overall prevalence. Global estimated pooled prevalence of long COVID was 36% among COVID-19 positive individuals (95% confidence interval [CI] 33%-40%) estimated from 144 studies. Geographical variation was observed in the estimated pooled prevalence of long COVID: Asia at 35% (95% CI 25%-46%), Europe at 39% (95% CI 31%-48%), North America at 30% (95% CI 24%-38%), and South America at 51% (95% CI 35%-66%). Stratifying by follow-up duration, the estimated pooled prevalence for individuals with longer follow-up periods of 1 to 2 years (47% [95% CI 37%-57%]) compared to those with follow-up times of less than 1 year (35% [95% CI 31%-39%]) had overlapping CI and were therefore not statistically distinguishable. Top five most prevalent long COVID subtypes among COVID-19 positive cases were respiratory at 20% (95% CI 14%-28%) estimated from 31 studies, general fatigue at 20% (95% CI 18%-23%) estimated from 121 studies, psychological at 18% (95% CI 11%-28%) estimated from 10 studies, neurological at 16% (95% CI 8%-30%) estimated from 23 studies, and dermatological at 12% (95% CI 8%-17%) estimated from 10 studies. The most common symptom based on estimated prevalence was memory problems estimated at 11% (95% CI 7%-19%) meta-analyzed from 12 studies. The three strongest risk factors for long COVID were being unvaccinated for COVID-19, pre-existing comorbidity, and female sex. Individuals with any of these risk factors had higher odds of having long COVID with pooled estimated odds ratios of 2.34 (95% CI 1.49-3.67) meta-analyzed from 6 studies, 1.59 (95% CI 1.28-1.97) from 13 studies, and 1.55 (95% CI 1.25-1.92) from 22 studies, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This study shows long COVID is globally prevalent in the COVID-19 positive population with highly varying estimates. The prevalence of long COVID persists over extended follow-up, with a high burden of symptoms 1 to 2 years post-infection. Our findings highlight long COVID and its subtypes as a continuing health challenge worldwide. The heterogeneity of the estimates across populations and geographical regions argues for the need for carefully designed follow-up with representative studies across the world.

KEY POINTS: Question: What are the prevalence and patterns of long COVID and its subtypes, and what are the risk factors of long COVID?Results: Meta-analysis of 429 studies published from 2021-2024 estimated a pooled global long COVID prevalence of 36% in COVID-19 positive individuals. Variations in geographical regions showed that South America had the highest pooled prevalence of 51% (95% CI: 35%-66%), and the prevalence does not seem to diminish with extended follow-up (less than 1 year: 35%, 95% CI: 31%-39% vs. 1 to 2 years: 47%, 95% CI: 37%-57%). The estimated pooled prevalence of eight major long COVID subtypes in COVID-19 positive individuals were 20% (respiratory), 20% (general fatigue), 18% (psychological), 16% (neurological), 12% (dermatological), 10% (cardiovascular), 9% (musculoskeletal) and 5% (gastrointestinal).Meaning: Quantitative evidence shows a persistent prevalence of long COVID globally, with a significant burden of symptoms 1 to 2 years post-infection, underscoring the need for having accurate and standardized diagnostic tests and biomarkers for long COVID, a better understanding of the physiology of the condition, its treatment, and its potential effect on healthcare needs and workforce participation. The heterogeneity and wide range of the prevalence estimates call for representative samples in well-designed follow-up studies of long COVID across the world.},
}

@article {pmid39826380,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, LY and Cai, AQ and Li, B and Sun, YQ and Li, Z and Liu, JP and Cao, HJ},
title = {Prevalence and risk factors for long COVID in China: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.},
journal = {Journal of infection and public health},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {102652},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2025.102652},
pmid = {39826380},
issn = {1876-035X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: With the outbreak of COVID-19 in China, a large number of COVID-19 patients are at risk of long COVID after recovery. The purpose of our research is to systematically review the existing clinical studies to understand the current prevalence and related risk factors of long COVID in COVID-19 patients in China.

METHODS: The protocol of this systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024519375). We searched six electronic databases from 1st January 2020-1st March 2024. Literature screening, data extraction, and risk bias assessment were independently carried out by two reviewers. Quality of the included studies was evaluated by AHRQ and NOS. The meta-analysis was performed by R software 4.2.3 to derive the prevalence of long COVID and risk factors.

RESULTS: Overall, 50 studies with 65880 participants were included. The results showed that the prevalence of long COVID (with at least one symptom) among the COVID-19 patients was approximately 50 % (95 %Confidence Interval (CI) 42-58 %) in China. Although we conducted meta-regression and subgroup analysis, the heterogeneity of the study was high. But the Omicron BA.2 variant had a statistically significant effect on the prevalence of long COVID (P = 0.0004). The three most common symptoms of long COVID were fatigue (0.33, 95 %CI 0.28-0.39), cognitive decline (0.30, 95 %CI 0.14-0.46) and shortness of breath (0.29, 95 %CI 0.15-0.43). Patients with severe acute phase of COVID-19 (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.57, 95 % CI 1.39-1.77), combined 2 comorbidities (OR 1.80, 95 % CI 1.40-2.32), combined 3 comorbidities (OR 2.13, 95 % CI 1.64-2.77), advanced age (OR 1.02, 95 % CI 1.01-1.04), female (OR 1.58, 95 % CI 1.44-1.73) were the risk factors for long COVID prevalence.

CONCLUSION: Current systematic review found that nearly half of COVID-19 patients may suffering from long COVID in China. Establishing a long COVID recovery-support platform and regular follow-up would help to long-term monitor and manage the patients, especially those high-risk population.},
}

@article {pmid39823918,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, D and Manhas, A and Noishiki, C and Tripathi, D and Liu, L and Turbes, N and Thomas, D and Sallam, K and Lee, JT and Sayed, N},
title = {Generation of induced pluripotent stem cell line from a patient with long COVID.},
journal = {Stem cell research},
volume = {83},
number = {},
pages = {103652},
doi = {10.1016/j.scr.2025.103652},
pmid = {39823918},
issn = {1876-7753},
abstract = {Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, leads to vascular dysfunction, which contributes to the chronic multi-organ damage often seen in affected patients. Long COVID, a global health concern is associated with increased thrombotic risk, also known as COVID-19-associated coagulopathy (CAC). Here, we derived an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of a long COVID patient. This iPSC line showed normal morphology, maintained pluripotency, had a stable karyotype, and demonstrated the ability to differentiate into the three germ layers (ectoderm, endoderm, and mesoderm). This line provides a valuable tool for modeling long COVID and exploring mechanisms underlying multi-organ dysfunction.},
}

@article {pmid39821993,
year = {2025},
author = {Metzmacher, M},
title = {[Not Available].},
journal = {MMW Fortschritte der Medizin},
volume = {167},
number = {1},
pages = {32-33},
doi = {10.1007/s15006-024-4450-x},
pmid = {39821993},
issn = {1613-3560},
}

@article {pmid39821741,
year = {2025},
author = {Jebrini, T and Ruzicka, M and Völk, F and Fonseca, GJI and Pernpruner, A and Benesch, C and Valdinoci, E and von Baum, M and Weigl, M and Subklewe, M and von Bergwelt-Baildon, M and Roider, J and Mayerle, J and Heindl, B and Adorjan, K and Stubbe, HC},
title = {Predicting work ability impairment in post COVID-19 patients: a machine learning model based on clinical parameters.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39821741},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {The Post COVID-19 condition (PCC) is a complex disease affecting health and everyday functioning. This is well reflected by a patient's inability to work (ITW). In this study, we aimed to investigate factors associated with ITW (1) and to design a machine learning-based model for predicting ITW (2) twelve months after baseline. We selected patients from the post COVID care study (PCC-study) with data on their ability to work. To identify factors associated with ITW, we compared PCC patients with and without ITW. For constructing a predictive model, we selected nine clinical parameters: hospitalization during the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, WHO severity of acute infection, presence of somatic comorbidities, presence of psychiatric comorbidities, age, height, weight, Karnofsky index, and symptoms. The model was trained to predict ITW twelve months after baseline using TensorFlow Decision Forests. Its performance was investigated using cross-validation and an independent testing dataset. In total, 259 PCC patients were included in this analysis. We observed that ITW was associated with dyslipidemia, worse patient reported outcomes (FSS, WHOQOL-BREF, PHQ-9), a higher rate of preexisting psychiatric conditions, and a more extensive medical work-up. The predictive model exhibited a mean AUC of 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78; 0.88) in the 10-fold cross-validation. In the testing dataset, the AUC was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.58; 0.93). In conclusion, we identified several factors associated with ITW. The predictive model performed very well. It could guide management decisions and help setting mid- to long-term treatment goals by aiding the identification of patients at risk of extended ITW.},
}

@article {pmid39820838,
year = {2025},
author = {Boscolo-Rizzo, P and Zandonella Callegher, R and Cancellieri, E and Pellegrini, L and Tirelli, G and Albert, U},
title = {Association between psychophysically measured olfactory dysfunction and mental health status in long COVID patients.},
journal = {Rhinology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4193/Rhin24.295},
pmid = {39820838},
issn = {0300-0729},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID frequently presents with persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD), affecting both physical and psychological well-being. This study aims to evaluate the mental health consequences of OD in long COVID patients.

METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study involved 86 adult patients. Participants presented OD for at least three months post-COVID- 19 and were evaluated using the extended battery of Sniffin' Sticks test (SST). Psychological assessments included the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (Q-LES-Q).

RESULTS: Significant differences in mental health factors were observed between patients with and without OD: in comparison to normosmic patients, hyposmic patients showed higher IES-R Total, Avoidance, and Hyperarousal scores, along with increased DASS-21 Anxiety scores and BHS total scores.

CONCLUSIONS: OD in long COVID patients were significantly associated with increased post-traumatic stress symptoms, anxiety symptoms and hopelessness, and with lower quality of life. Limited sample size, inability to determine causation and exploratory nature of the study may limit the generalizability of results. Comprehensive management addressing both physical and mental health should be assessed in long COVID patients.},
}

@article {pmid39820631,
year = {2025},
author = {Minassie, BB and Degu, WA and Etissa, EK and Asfeha, NF and Alemayehu, ST and Huluka, DK},
title = {Attributes and factors associated with long covid in patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19: A retrospective cohort study.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {e0317512},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0317512},
pmid = {39820631},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Male ; Female ; Retrospective Studies ; Middle Aged ; *Hospitalization ; Adult ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Aged ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: It is now recognized that many patients have persistent symptoms after recovery from acute COVID-19 infection, an infection caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. This constellation of symptoms known as 'Long COVID' may manifest with a wide range of physical and cognitive/psychological symptoms. Few data are available on the prevalence, attributes, and factors associated with Long COVID in Africa.

METHOD: This was a retrospective review of patients' electronic medical records from Hallelujah General Hospital (one of the first private hospitals to treat COVID-19 patients). The hospital's database was searched for patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19 infection from March 2020 to December 2022. Two hundred and forty-seven participants who underwent follow-up beginning four weeks after symptom onset were assessed for Long COVID. Admission and follow-up data were collected using Kobo Toolbox and exported into SPSS 27 for analysis. The relationship between the independent and dependent variables was explored through binary logistic regression.

RESULTS: One hundred seventy-eight (72.1%) participants had at least one persisting symptom 4 weeks post-symptom onset, at a median follow-up time of 35 (IQR 32-40) days. The most frequently reported symptoms were fatigue (41.7%), shortness of breath (31.2%), cough (27.1%), and sleep disturbances (15%). Duration of symptoms more than 7 days before admission [aOR = 1.97; CI95% = 1.04 to 3.75; P = 0.038] and length of stay more than 10 days in the hospital [aOR = 2.62; CI95% = 1.20 to 5.72; P = 0.016] were found to be significantly associated with Long COVID.

CONCLUSION: There is a high prevalence of Long COVID among patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19. Those who had a longer duration of symptoms before admission and a longer stay in the hospital appear to have a higher risk.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Male
Female
Retrospective Studies
Middle Aged
*Hospitalization
Adult
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Aged
Risk Factors

@article {pmid39820198,
year = {2025},
author = {Anderer, S},
title = {Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Approach May Improve Long COVID Symptoms, Boost Physical Function.},
journal = {JAMA},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1001/jama.2024.27437},
pmid = {39820198},
issn = {1538-3598},
}

@article {pmid39820003,
year = {2025},
author = {Andrade, A and Bastos, ACRF and D'Oliveira, A and Vilarino, GT},
title = {Association between physical activity practice and sleep quality of older people in social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and Health Guidelines and future studies for the post-COVID period: a systematic review.},
journal = {Aging},
volume = {null},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.18632/aging.206180},
pmid = {39820003},
issn = {1945-4589},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Physical activity (PA) is considered an alternative to mitigate the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sleep of older adults. The objective was to verify the association between physical activity and the sleep quality of older people in social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, to analyze the Health Guidelines, and suggest future studies for the post-COVID period.

METHODS: This systematic review followed PRISMA recommendations, and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD 42023406471). The search for articles occurred in April 2024 in the databases PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and gray literature. Data were extracted and checked in a Microsoft Excel[®] spreadsheet. The quality assessment was performed using tools from the National Institutes of Health.

RESULTS: In total, 1582 studies were found in the databases, of which nine were included in the analyses. Four studies reported a negative association of reduced levels of PA during the pandemic with sleep quality, while one study showed a positive association of PA with sleep quality. Four studies demonstrated no association.

CONCLUSIONS: PA was associated with the sleep quality of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and reduced levels of PA during this period demonstrated a negative association with sleep quality. Practice of PA is recommended for this post-COVID scenario, as a measure to reduce social isolation and its negative effects and improve the quality of sleep in older adults.},
}

@article {pmid39819953,
year = {2025},
author = {Sculthorpe, NF and McLaughlin, M and Cerexhe, L and Macdonald, E and Dello Iacono, A and Sanal-Hayes, NEM and Ingram, J and Meach, R and Carless, D and Ormerod, J and Hayes, LD},
title = {Tracking Persistent Symptoms in Scotland (TraPSS): a longitudinal prospective cohort study of COVID-19 recovery after mild acute infection.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {e086646},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-086646},
pmid = {39819953},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Scotland/epidemiology ; Male ; Female ; Prospective Studies ; Middle Aged ; Longitudinal Studies ; Adult ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Fatigue/etiology/epidemiology ; Aged ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Cough/etiology ; Sex Factors ; Age Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 disease results in disparate responses between individuals and has led to the emergence of long coronavirus disease (Long-COVID), characterised by persistent and cyclical symptomology. To understand the complexity of Long-COVID, the importance of symptom surveillance and prospective longitudinal studies is evident.

METHODS: A 9-month longitudinal prospective cohort study was conducted within Scotland (n=287), using a mobile app to determine the proportion of recovered individuals and those with persistent symptoms and common symptoms, and associations with gender and age.

RESULTS: 3.1% of participants experienced symptoms at month 9, meeting the criteria for Long-COVID, as defined by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence terminology. The random effects model revealed a significant time (month) effect for infection recovery (p<0.001, estimate=0.07). Fatigue, cough and muscle pain were the most common symptoms at baseline, with fatigue persisting the longest, while symptoms like cough improved rapidly. Older age increased the likelihood of reporting pain (p=0.028, estimate=0.07) and cognitive impairment (p<0.001, estimate=0.93). Female gender increased the likelihood of headaches (p=0.024, estimate=0.53) and post-exertional malaise (PEM) frequency (p=0.05, estimate=137.68), and increased time x gender effect for PEM frequency (p=0.033, estimate=18.96).

CONCLUSIONS: The majority of people fully recover from acute COVID-19, although often slowly. Age and gender play a role in symptom burden and recovery rates, emphasising the need for tailored approaches to Long-COVID management. Further analysis is required to determine the characteristics of the individuals still reporting ongoing symptoms months after initial infection to identify risk factors and potential predictors for the development of Long-COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Scotland/epidemiology
Male
Female
Prospective Studies
Middle Aged
Longitudinal Studies
Adult
*SARS-CoV-2
Fatigue/etiology/epidemiology
Aged
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Cough/etiology
Sex Factors
Age Factors

@article {pmid39818331,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammadi, M and Faghihi, SH},
title = {Drug-resistant tuberculosis is an important challenge in long COVID patients.},
journal = {Journal of global antimicrobial resistance},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jgar.2024.12.027},
pmid = {39818331},
issn = {2213-7173},
}

@article {pmid39817917,
year = {2025},
author = {Bachelet, VC and Carroza, B and Morgado, B and Silva-Ayarza, I},
title = {A systematic analysis of the literature on the post-COVID-19 condition in Latin America focusing on epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and risk of bias.},
journal = {Medwave},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {e3014},
doi = {10.5867/medwave.2025.01.3014},
pmid = {39817917},
issn = {0717-6384},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Latin America/epidemiology ; *Bias ; Caribbean Region/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Prevalence ; Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {This analysis article aimed to identify and analyze all articles published on the post-COVID-19 condition in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and risk of bias. We did a systematic survey of the literature with broad inclusion criteria. The only exclusion criteria were articles referring to post-acute COVID-19 sequelae after an intensive care unit stay, which we distinguish from the post-COVID-19 condition. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, Web of Science, and Epistemonikos. We included 55 records, of which 48 were original articles (44 were observational research, 29 of which had a comparison group; and four reviews). Various definitions for long COVID were reported, or none, and few used the World Health Organization criteria. None of the included studies reported prevalence rates for the region. We extracted the reported signs and symptoms of long COVID for our region. Using the Johanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools for observational analytic research, we found that most included studies were prone to limitations and biases. We conclude that more research should be done on the post-COVID-19 condition in Latin America and the Caribbean, using rigorous study designs to inform public health strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Latin America/epidemiology
*Bias
Caribbean Region/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Prevalence
Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid39817308,
year = {2025},
author = {Calabrese, LH and Putman, M and Sparks, JA and Wallace, Z and Kim, AHJ and Winthrop, KL and Calabrese, C},
title = {The National Academies' 2024 Diagnostic Criteria for Long COVID: Concerns that Could Affect the Rheumatology Community.},
journal = {Arthritis & rheumatology (Hoboken, N.J.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/art.43114},
pmid = {39817308},
issn = {2326-5205},
}

@article {pmid39815057,
year = {2025},
author = {Diez-Cirarda, M and Yus-Fuertes, M and Delgado-Alonso, C and Gil-Martínez, L and Jiménez-García, C and Gil-Moreno, MJ and Gómez-Ruiz, N and Oliver-Mas, S and Polidura, C and Jorquera, M and Gómez-Pinedo, U and Arrazola, J and Sánchez-Ramón, S and Matias-Guiu, J and Gonzalez-Escamilla, G and Matias-Guiu, JA},
title = {Choroid plexus volume is enlarged in long COVID and associated with cognitive and brain changes.},
journal = {Molecular psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39815057},
issn = {1476-5578},
abstract = {Patients with post-COVID condition (PCC) present with diverse symptoms which persist at long-term after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among these symptoms, cognitive impairment is one of the most prevalent and has been related to brain structural and functional changes. The underlying mechanisms of these cognitive and brain alterations remain elusive but neuroinflammation and immune mechanisms have been majorly considered. In this sense, the choroid plexus (ChP) volume has been proposed as a marker of neuroinflammation in immune-mediated conditions and the ChP epithelium has been found particularly susceptible to the effects of SARS-CoV-2. The objective was to investigate the ChP in PCC and evaluate its relationships with cognition, brain, and immunological alterations. One-hundred and twenty-nine patients with PCC after a mean of 14.79 ± 7.17 months of evolution since the infection and 36 healthy controls were recruited. Participants underwent a neuropsychological, and neuroimaging assessment and immunological markers evaluation. Results revealed ChP volume enlargement in PCC compared to healthy controls. The ChP enlargement was associated with cognitive dysfunction, grey matter volume reduction in frontal and subcortical areas, white matter integrity and diffusivity changes and functional connectivity changes. These ChP changes were also related to intermediate monocytes levels. Findings suggest that the ChP integrity may play a relevant role in the pathophysiology of cognitive deficits and the observed brain changes in PCC. The previously documented function of the ChP in maintaining brain homeostasis and regulating the entry of immune cells into the brain supports the presence of neuroinflammatory mechanisms in this disorder.},
}

@article {pmid39814621,
year = {2025},
author = {Martins, RHG and de Azevedo, ES and Müller, JVC and Loli, A},
title = {Dysphonia and COVID-19: A Review.},
journal = {Journal of voice : official journal of the Voice Foundation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jvoice.2024.11.034},
pmid = {39814621},
issn = {1873-4588},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Vocal symptoms are frequent in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and may occur during or after infection.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a descriptive review on the topic "dysphonia and COVID-19" in order to alert specialists to these symptoms associated with the virus and sequelae.

METHODOLOGY: A literature review was carried out in the main databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, between April 2020 and April 2024 using descriptors that related COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) to voice disorders.

RESULTS: In total, 41 studies, 13 case reports, 6 retrospective, and 22 prospective, 5139 patients (2131 M, 2991 F), mean age of 51 years. The prevalence of dysphonia ranged from 0.39% to 79%. The most prevalent vocal symptoms were hoarseness, cough, dry throat, sore throat, reflux, aphonia, phonasthenia, stridor, and hypersecretion. Videolaryngoscopic findings: unilateral paralysis (145), bilateral paralysis (16), erythema (84), benign lesions (56), muscle tension dysphonia (54), granulomas (33), edema (31), stenosis (22), atrophy (19), incomplete glottal closure (12), and ventricular hypertrophy (6). Auditory-perceptual analyses identified mild/moderate vocal impairment in infected patients and persistence of changes in the long-COVID period. Acoustic analyses indicated significant changes in Jitter, Shimmer, harmonic-to-noise ratio (NHR), and maximum phonation time in patients with COVID-19.

CONCLUSION: Dysphonia caused by COVID-19 infection is common, both in the acute and chronic phases of the disease. The main causes include vocal fold paralysis, inflammatory laryngitis, and muscle tension dysphonia. All patients who present vocal symptoms after COVID-19 infection should undergo videolaryngoscopy and subjective and acoustic vocal analyses to identify sequelae of the disease.},
}

@article {pmid39812499,
year = {2024},
author = {Bętkowska-Korpała, B and Olszewska-Turek, K and Pastuszak-Draxler, A and Laskowska-Wronarowicz, A and Walczewska, J and Starowicz-Filip, A and Dudek, D},
title = {Co-occurrence of psychopathological symptom severity and personality predisposition in post-traumatic stress disorder in patients several months after hospitalisation due to COVID-19.},
journal = {Psychiatria polska},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-19},
doi = {10.12740/PP/OnlineFirst/183127},
pmid = {39812499},
issn = {2391-5854},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The study's aim was to determine co-occurrence of psychopathological symptoms and personality predispositions in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its dimensions several months after hospitalisation of patients with severe COVID-19 during the 2nd and 3rd waves of the epidemic.

METHODS: At 7-8 months after admission, 138 patients completed the PCL-5 and TIPI questionnaires, as well as the HADS and AIS scales. Correlation analysis and stepwise multiple regression analysis were used in the models.

RESULTS: 22.5% of patients met the PTSD criteria. There were no significant differences between women and men in terms of severity of anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, distress and PTSD. Anxiety, sleep disorders and depression co-occurred with PTSD severity. All dimensions of PTSD were associated with anxiety. Intrusion, changes in arousal and reactivity correlated with sleep disorders. Changes in arousal and reactivity were explained by subjective assessment of distress. Negative changes in cognition and mood were related to depression and low levels of extraversion.

CONCLUSIONS: There is a co-occurrence of the severity of psychopathological symptoms: anxiety, depression, distress and sleep disorders with the severity of PTDS and its dimensions among patients who have undergone severe COVID-19 in the recent past. A protective factor against post-hospitalisation PTSD is higher level of extraversion.},
}

@article {pmid39812099,
year = {2024},
author = {Salai, G and Tekavec-Trkanjec, J and Kovačević, I and Tomasović-Lončarić, Č and Pačić, A and Vergles, M and Ljubičić, Đ and Cvetković-Kučić, D and Lukšić, I and Baršić, B},
title = {Lung long distance: histopathological changes in lung tissue after COVID-19 pneumonia.},
journal = {Croatian medical journal},
volume = {65},
number = {6},
pages = {501-509},
pmid = {39812099},
issn = {1332-8166},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/pathology/complications ; Male ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Female ; *Lung/pathology ; Middle Aged ; Biopsy ; Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Adult ; },
abstract = {AIM: To investigate histopathological changes in the lung tissue of long-COVID patients.

METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, transbronchial lung biopsy was performed in long-COVID patients with persisting symptoms and radiological abnormalities. Histopathologic analyses were performed by using hematoxylin-eosin, Martius, Scarlet and Blue, Movat's, thyroid transcription factor 1, CD34, and CD68 staining.

RESULTS: Adequate biopsy samples were obtained from 29/32 patients. The median (Q1-Q3) time from disease onset to biopsy was 13 (9-20) weeks. We observed several histopathologic patterns: DAD with vascular abnormalities (VA) (n=8); VA with inflammatory pattern (n=4); inflammatory pattern (n=13), and fibrotic pattern (n=4). VA included capillary thrombi, dilated venules, and dissection of small pulmonary arteries. DAD with VA was detected up to the 9th week from the onset of disease; inflammatory pattern from the 8th to 28th week (4 patients with this pattern biopsied in the 11th-13th week had accompanying VA); and a predominantly fibrotic pattern was found at weeks 8, 10, 48, and 49.

CONCLUSION: Our study observed a slow recovery of lung tissue with long-lasting DAD and VA, likely followed by interstitial inflammation or focal fibrosis. These findings might be the underlying cause of the slow recovery of long-COVID patients.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/pathology/complications
Male
Cross-Sectional Studies
Female
*Lung/pathology
Middle Aged
Biopsy
Aged
SARS-CoV-2
Adult

@article {pmid39811236,
year = {2024},
author = {Razzak, AN and Kaizu, Y and Starkey, J},
title = {A Comparative Review of the Terms Epipharyngitis and Nasopharyngitis in Medical Literature.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {e75738},
pmid = {39811236},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {This review explores the usage of the term "epipharyngitis" in medical literature, particularly in non-English-speaking contexts. The term, although rarely used in contemporary English-language medical literature, may lead to confusion due to its overlap with more commonly used terms like "nasopharyngitis." This review aims to trace the origins of the term, analyze its usage across different languages, and discuss the implications of term differences in clinical practice and medical education.},
}

@article {pmid39810272,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsuruoka, M and Huynh, MK and Toizumi, M and Hoang, TT and Nguyen, TB and Dao, AT and Nguyen, LD and Le, HX and Le, CT and Dang, AQ and Do, HT and Yoshida, LM},
title = {Characteristics and long-term health outcomes of the first domestic COVID-19 outbreak cases in Da Nang, Vietnam: a longitudinal cohort study.},
journal = {Tropical medicine and health},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {6},
pmid = {39810272},
issn = {1348-8945},
support = {JP21wm0125006//Japan Program for Infectious Diseases Research and Infrastructure, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)/ ; 27-Ippan-17//Joint Usage / Research Centre on Tropical Disease, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vietnam experienced the first COVID-19 domestic outbreak due to the Wuhan strain (B.1.1) in Da Nang from July 2020. COVID-19 can cause acute as well as long-term health problems. We aimed to characterise clinical features and risk factors related to severe illness of COVID-19 among Da Nang outbreak cases and to describe long-term health outcomes among survivors of this outbreak.

METHODS: We conducted an ambidirectional cohort study. Study subjects were all hospitalised cases with positive real-time PCR test of SARS-CoV-2 in the three major hospitals in Da Nang from 25 July to 28 August 2020. Clinical and demographic information was retrospectively collected from medical charts. Then, the survivors were followed-up prospectively at 6 and 16 months after acute infection to assess their health status via standardized questionnaires, physical examinations, chest X-rays and pulmonary function tests.

RESULTS: A total of 362 cases including 20 fatal cases were enrolled into the study retrospectively. The median age of the participants included in the medical chart review was 46.5 years and 60.8% were female. Overall, 7.8% of the participants required respiratory support during hospitalisation and 20 of them died. Compared to the survivors, the fatal cases were significantly older (median age of survivors 45.0 yr vs fatal cases 66.5 yr, P < 0.001) and more likely to have underlying conditions. The proportions of participants who had at least one long COVID symptom within the 7 days of each follow-up at 6 and 16 months were 72.0% (134/186) and 63.5% (47/74), respectively. We also found that females and adults reported symptoms more often in the follow-up surveys, 78.9% (90/114) [females] vs 61.1% (44/72) [males] at 6 months, P = 0.008; 68.7% (46/67) [ ≥ 20 years] vs 14.3% (1/7) [ < 20 years] at 16 months, P = 0.004.

CONCLUSIONS: In the first domestic COVID-19 outbreak in Vietnam, the mortality rate was approximately 6% and associated with underlying medical conditions. In the follow-up surveys, a substantial proportion of participants reported long COVID related health problems, although the prevalence declined over time. Females and adults reported symptoms more often, which might be due to the pathophysiological differences according to sex and age.},
}

@article {pmid39809593,
year = {2025},
author = {Drover, H and Singh, SJ and Orme, MW and Daynes, E},
title = {Pulmonary rehabilitation healthcare professionals understanding and experiences of the protected characteristics of service users: A qualitative analysis.},
journal = {Chronic respiratory disease},
volume = {22},
number = {},
pages = {14799731241307253},
doi = {10.1177/14799731241307253},
pmid = {39809593},
issn = {1479-9731},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; *Qualitative Research ; Adult ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; Middle Aged ; Health Personnel/psychology ; Health Services Accessibility ; Healthcare Disparities ; Interviews as Topic ; Age Factors ; Physical Therapists ; Gender Identity ; Pregnancy ; Occupational Therapists/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health inequalities can affect access and uptake to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). An individual's protected characteristics (age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation) may contribute to health inequalities. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) experiences of the inclusivity and representativeness of PR services and knowledge of protected characteristics are unknown, however are vital for the identification and resolution of health inequalities. This qualitative study explored HCPs understanding of protected characteristics and their perception of the inclusivity, representativeness and equitable benefit of their PR services.

METHODS: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted in person or via videoconferencing with HCPs involved in PR from two healthcare providers. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS: 12 interviews were conducted with physiotherapists (n = 6), occupational therapists (n = 2), nurses (n = 2) and exercise physiologists (n = 2). Participants had a median (IRQ) age of 43 (13) and 75% (n = 9) were female. Four themes were generated. 1: 'I don't really know as much as I should' [about protected characteristics]; 2: It's uncomfortable collecting protected characteristics…; 3: 'I don't think [service users] are as representative as they could be'; 4: A conventional rehabilitation programme does not meet the needs of all.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted several challenges in HCPs understanding of protected characteristics and the representativeness of PR that must be addressed to ensure equity. Strategies, to understand barriers in accessing PR that limit representativeness should be explored.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
*Qualitative Research
Adult
*Attitude of Health Personnel
Middle Aged
Health Personnel/psychology
Health Services Accessibility
Healthcare Disparities
Interviews as Topic
Age Factors
Physical Therapists
Gender Identity
Pregnancy
Occupational Therapists/psychology

@article {pmid39808169,
year = {2024},
author = {Šerý, O and Dziedzinska, R},
title = {Risk impact of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and spike protein on cardiac tissue: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Physiological research},
volume = {73},
number = {S3},
pages = {S655-S669},
pmid = {39808169},
issn = {1802-9973},
mesh = {Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; *COVID-19/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Animals ; Myocytes, Cardiac/metabolism/virology/pathology ; Virus Internalization ; Myocardium/metabolism/pathology ; },
abstract = {The global COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to significant morbidity and mortality, with a profound impact on cardiovascular health. This review investigates the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2's interaction with cardiac tissue, particularly emphasizing the role of the Spike protein and ACE2 receptor in facilitating viral entry and subsequent cardiac complications. We dissect the structural features of the virus, its interactions with host cell receptors, and the resulting pathophysiological changes in the heart. Highlighting SARS-CoV-2's broad organ tropism, especially its effects on cardiomyocytes via ACE2 and TMPRSS2, the review addresses how these interactions exacerbate cardiovascular issues in patients with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Additionally, we assess both direct and indirect mechanisms of virus-induced cardiac damage, including myocarditis, arrhythmias, and long-term complications such as 'long COVID'. This review underscores the complexity of SARS-CoV-2's impact on the heart, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to fully understand its long-term effects on cardiovascular health. Key words: COVID-19, Heart, ACE2, Spike protein, Cardiomyocytes, Myocarditis, Long COVID.},
}

Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
*COVID-19/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Animals
Myocytes, Cardiac/metabolism/virology/pathology
Virus Internalization
Myocardium/metabolism/pathology

@article {pmid39806627,
year = {2024},
author = {Baalmann, AK and Blome, C and Stoletzki, N and Donhauser, T and Apfelbacher, C and Piontek, K},
title = {Patient-reported outcome measures for post-COVID-19 condition: a systematic review of instruments and measurement properties.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {14},
number = {12},
pages = {e084202},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-084202},
pmid = {39806627},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *Patient Reported Outcome Measures ; *COVID-19 ; *Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC), also referred to as Long COVID, has become an emerging public health issue requiring adequate prevention, treatment and management strategies. Evaluating these strategies from the patients' perspective using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) is critical. In this systematic review, we aimed to critically appraise and summarise the quality of existing PROMs for PCC, and to identify PROMs that can be recommended for use in future research.

DESIGN: Systematic review using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed and Web of Science were searched on 16 January 2023 and again on 23 July 2024.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included studies reporting on the development and/or validation of any disease-specific PROMs for PCC.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two independent reviewers screened the results for eligibility. The methodological quality of each included study was assessed using the COSMIN Risk of Bias Checklist. We further evaluated the quality of measurement properties per PROM and study according to the criteria for good measurement properties as outlined in the COSMIN manual, and graded the evidence of the synthesised results. Based on the overall evidence, we derived recommendations for the use of the identified instruments.

RESULTS: We identified 23 studies reporting on 11 PROMs measuring functional status (COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale, C19-YRS; Modified COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale, C19-YRSm; Functional Impairment Checklist, FIC; Post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale, PCFS), symptom burden and impact (Long COVID Symptom and Severity Score, LC-SSS; Long COVID Symptom Tool, LCST; Long COVID Impact Tool, LCIT; Symptom Burden Questionnaire Long COVID, SBQ-LC), quality of life (Post-acute COVID-19 Quality of Life instrument, PAC-19QoL) and stigma (Long COVID Stigma Scale, LCSS; Post-COVID-19 Condition Stigma Questionnaire, PCCSQ). Sample sizes of the included studies ranged from 29 to 1969 participants. Overall, 95 single studies on measurement properties were evaluated. Among the identified instruments, the Long Covid Stigma Scale (LCSS) showed sufficient content validity and internal consistency and can be recommended for use according to COSMIN criteria. Our assessment of measurement properties revealed significant evidence gaps for all PROMs, indicating the need for further validation studies to make an adequate decision on the recommendation for their use. Content validity is a major shortcoming of all included instruments.

CONCLUSION: The LCSS measuring stigma can be recommended for use in future research. For the assessment of PCC symptoms and impact, no instrument with sufficient measurement properties is currently available. Further validation of all identified PROMs is indicated, in particular comprehensive assessments of content validity involving experts and patients.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023391238.},
}

Humans
*Patient Reported Outcome Measures
*COVID-19
*Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39804864,
year = {2025},
author = {Thapaliya, K and Marshall-Gradisnik, S and Eaton-Fitch, N and Barth, M and Inderyas, M and Barnden, L},
title = {Hippocampal subfield volume alterations and associations with severity measures in long COVID and ME/CFS: A 7T MRI study.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {e0316625},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0316625},
pmid = {39804864},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hippocampus/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; Female ; Male ; *COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/pathology/complications ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Severity of Illness Index ; Case-Control Studies ; Organ Size ; },
abstract = {Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) patients share similar symptoms including post-exertional malaise, neurocognitive impairment, and memory loss. The neurocognitive impairment in both conditions might be linked to alterations in the hippocampal subfields. Therefore, this study compared alterations in hippocampal subfields of 17 long COVID, 29 ME/CFS patients, and 15 healthy controls (HC). Structural MRI data was acquired with sub-millimeter isotropic resolution on a 7 Telsa MRI scanner and hippocampal subfield volumes were then estimated for each participant using FreeSurfer software. Our study found significantly larger volumes in the left hippocampal subfields of both long COVID and ME/CFS patients compared to HC. These included the left subiculum head (long COVID; p = 0.01, ME/CFS; p = 0.002,), presubiculum head (long COVID; p = 0.004, ME/CFS; p = 0.005), molecular layer hippocampus head (long COVID; p = 0.014, ME/CFS; p = 0.011), and whole hippocampal head (long COVID; p = 0.01, ME/CFS; p = 0.01). Notably, hippocampal subfield volumes were similar between long COVID and ME/CFS patients. Additionally, we found significant associations between hippocampal subfield volumes and severity measures of 'Pain', 'Duration of illness', 'Severity of fatigue', 'Impaired concentration', 'Unrefreshing sleep', and 'Physical function' in both conditions. These findings suggest that hippocampal alterations may contribute to the neurocognitive impairment experienced by long COVID and ME/CFS patients. Furthermore, our study highlights similarities between these two conditions.},
}

Humans
*Hippocampus/diagnostic imaging/pathology
*Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods
Female
Male
*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/pathology/complications
Middle Aged
Adult
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnostic imaging/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
Severity of Illness Index
Case-Control Studies
Organ Size

@article {pmid39804551,
year = {2025},
author = {Vernon, SD and Zheng, T and Do, H and Marconi, VC and Jason, LA and Singer, NG and Natelson, BH and Sherif, ZA and Bonilla, HF and Taylor, E and Mullington, JM and Ashktorab, H and Laiyemo, AO and Brim, H and Patterson, TF and Akintonwa, TT and Sekar, A and Peluso, MJ and Maniar, N and Bateman, L and Horwitz, LI and Hess, R and , },
title = {Incidence and Prevalence of Post-COVID-19 Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: A Report from the Observational RECOVER-Adult Study.},
journal = {Journal of general internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39804551},
issn = {1525-1497},
support = {OTA OT2HL161841/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; OT2HL161847/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; OT2HL156812/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) may occur after infection. How often people develop ME/CFS after SARS-CoV-2 infection is unknown.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence and prevalence of post-COVID-19 ME/CFS among adults enrolled in the Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER-Adult) study.

RECOVER-Adult is a longitudinal observational cohort study conducted across the U.S. We included participants who had a study visit at least 6 months after infection and had no pre-existing ME/CFS, grouped as (1) acute infected, enrolled within 30 days of infection or enrolled as uninfected who became infected (n=4515); (2) post-acute infected, enrolled greater than 30 days after infection (n=7270); and (3) uninfected (1439).

MEASUREMENTS: Incidence rate and prevalence of post-COVID-19 ME/CFS based on the 2015 Institute of Medicine ME/CFS clinical diagnostic criteria.

RESULTS: The incidence rate of ME/CFS in participants followed from time of SARS-CoV-2 infection was 2.66 (95% CI 2.63-2.70) per 100 person-years while the rate in matched uninfected participants was 0.93 (95% CI 0.91-10.95) per 100 person-years: a hazard ratio of 4.93 (95% CI 3.62-6.71). The proportion of all RECOVER-Adult participants that met criteria for ME/CFS following SARS-CoV-2 infection was 4.5% (531 of 11,785) compared to 0.6% (9 of 1439) in uninfected participants. Post-exertional malaise was the most common ME/CFS symptom in infected participants (24.0%, 2830 of 11,785). Most participants with post-COVID-19 ME/CFS also met RECOVER criteria for long COVID (88.7%, 471 of 531).

LIMITATIONS: The ME/CFS clinical diagnostic criteria uses self-reported symptoms. Symptoms can wax and wane.

CONCLUSION: ME/CFS is a diagnosable sequela that develops at an increased rate following SARS-CoV-2 infection. RECOVER provides an unprecedented opportunity to study post-COVID-19 ME/CFS.},
}

@article {pmid39802657,
year = {2024},
author = {Wei, Y and Gu, H and Ma, J and Mao, X and Wang, B and Wu, W and Yu, S and Wang, J and Zhao, H and He, Y},
title = {Proteomic and metabolomic profiling of plasma uncovers immune responses in patients with Long COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1470193},
pmid = {39802657},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Long COVID is an often-debilitating condition with severe, multisystem symptoms that can persist for weeks or months and increase the risk of various diseases. Currently, there is a lack of diagnostic tools for Long COVID in clinical practice. Therefore, this study utilizes plasma proteomics and metabolomics technologies to understand the molecular profile and pathophysiological mechanisms of Long COVID, providing clinical evidence for the development of potential biomarkers. This study included three age- and gender-matched cohorts: healthy controls (n = 18), COVID-19 recovered patients (n = 17), and Long COVID patients (n = 15). The proteomics results revealed significant differences in proteins between Long COVID-19 patients and COVID-19 recovered patients, with dysregulation mainly focused on pathways such as coagulation, platelets, complement cascade reactions, GPCR cell signal transduction, and substance transport, which can participate in regulating immune responses, inflammation, and tissue vascular repair. Metabolomics results showed that Long COVID patients and COVID-19 recovered patients have similar metabolic disorders, mainly involving dysregulation in lipid metabolites and fatty acid metabolism, such as glycerophospholipids, sphingolipid metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism processes. In summary, our study results indicate significant protein dysregulation and metabolic abnormalities in the plasma of Long COVID patients, leading to coagulation dysfunction, impaired energy metabolism, and chronic immune dysregulation, which are more pronounced than in COVID-19 recovered patients.},
}

@article {pmid39802304,
year = {2025},
author = {Pouliopoulou, DV and Billias, N and MacDermid, JC and Miller, E and O'Brien, KK and Quinn, KL and Malvankar-Mehta, MS and Pereira, TV and Cheung, AM and Razak, F and Stranges, S and Bobos, P},
title = {Prevalence of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection in people living with HIV: a systematic review with meta-analysis.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {102993},
pmid = {39802304},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Given the chronic immune activation and inflammatory milieu associated with Long COVID and HIV, we assessed the prevalence of Long COVID in adults living with HIV; and investigated whether adults living with HIV were associated with increased chance of developing Long COVID compared to adults living without HIV.

METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched Medline, EMBASE, CINHAL, PubMed and CENTRAL from inception until June 14th, 2024, for observational studies that measured the prevalence of Long COVID in adults living with HIV and the odds of developing Long COVID following a SARS-CoV-2 infection in people living with HIV compared to people living without HIV. Reviews, case reports, randomised control trials and editorials were excluded. The search was conducted without language restrictions. We performed meta-analysis of proportions to synthesise prevalence estimates using logit transformation and a sensitivity analysis using mixed-effects logistic regression. We used random-effects meta-analyses to summarize the odds ratio (OR) of developing Long COVID in adults living with HIV compared to adults living without HIV and conducted a sensitivity analysis including only studies with covariate-adjusted estimates that was planned a-priori. We used ROBINS-E for the risk of bias assessment and GRADE to rate the certainty of evidence. We identified statistical heterogeneity using Cochran's Q test and quantified it using the I[2] statistic. For the Q test, a P < 0.10 was considered statistically significant. PROSPERO registration: CRD42024577616.

FINDINGS: Our search returned 831 results, of which 8 studies (4489 participants) were deemed eligible for inclusion in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The prevalence of Long COVID in adults with HIV was 43% (95% CI: 32-54%, 8 studies; 1227 participants; low certainty, I[2] < 0.0001). The association of HIV status with Long COVID was inconclusive, with wide confidence intervals (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.58-2.29; 4 studies; 3556 participants, low certainty, I[2] = 0.013). When the analysis was restricted to studies reporting covariate-adjusted estimates, adults living with HIV were associated with a higher odds of Long COVID than those not living with HIV (OR: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.12-4.36; 2 studies; 374 participants, low certainty, I[2] = 0.51).

INTERPRETATION: Current evidence indicates that the prevalence of Long COVID in adults living with HIV may be high, suggesting the need for increased awareness and education of healthcare providers and policy makers. Evidence on whether HIV positivity increases the risk of Long COVID is limited and inconclusive, highlighting a need for further research to clarify this potential association.

FUNDING: None.},
}

@article {pmid39800813,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohd Yusoff, H and Yew, SQ and Mohammed Nawi, A and Htwe, O and Mohd Tohit, N and Mohamed, Z and Muhamad Noordin, MA and Che Mohamed, N and Mohd, FH},
title = {Prevalence and symptoms of Long Covid-19 in the workplace.},
journal = {Occupational medicine (Oxford, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/occmed/kqae128},
pmid = {39800813},
issn = {1471-8405},
support = {UKMP-S230424//National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Malaysia/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The symptoms of Long coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are heterogeneous, creating uncertainty for employers regarding the diagnosis. The prevalence of Long Covid-19 in the workforce is also unknown. Furthermore, workers affected by Long Covid-19 encounter considerable difficulties in ensuring work safety and returning to their jobs due to this condition.

AIMS: This review is aimed to identify the prevalence of Long Covid-19 in the workplace and to determine the various symptoms of Long Covid-19 experienced by the workers.

METHODS: A meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the pooled estimates for the prevalence of Long Covid-19. Heterogeneity among the estimates was evaluated using the I² statistic.

RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of Long Covid-19 among workers across the 11 studies was 38% (95% CI 23-56). A total of 43 symptoms associated with Long Covid-19 were identified in the workplace, with the top five symptoms being dyspnoea at moderate activity (51%, 95% CI 39-62), mental symptoms (38%, 95% CI 6-87), dyspnoea at mild activity (35%, 95% CI 25-47), fatigue (26%, 95% CI 3-78) and effort intolerance (24%, 95% CI 15-35).

CONCLUSIONS: The review indicates a significant burden of long-lasting symptoms within the workforce. The top five reported symptoms of Long Covid-19 were dyspnoea during mild and moderate activities, mental symptoms, fatigue and effort intolerance.},
}

@article {pmid39800769,
year = {2025},
author = {Alonso Domínguez, J and Martínez Barros, I and Viéitez, I and Peleteiro, M and Calderón-Cruz, B and González-Nóvoa, JA and Pérez González, A and Leiro Fernández, V and López López, A and Poveda López, E},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Viral Load and Cytokine Dynamics Profile as Early Signatures of Long COVID Condition in Hospitalized Individuals.},
journal = {Influenza and other respiratory viruses},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {e70068},
doi = {10.1111/irv.70068},
pmid = {39800769},
issn = {1750-2659},
support = {P19/00747//Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII)/ ; PI22/01341//Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII)/ ; FI23/00006//Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Viral Load ; *COVID-19/virology/blood/diagnosis ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Cytokines/blood ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Longitudinal Studies ; Aged ; Adult ; Hospitalization ; RNA, Viral/blood ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Nasopharynx/virology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in millions of people experiencing long COVID condition, a range of persistent symptoms following the acute phase, with an estimated prevalence of 27%-64%.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: To understand its pathophysiology, we conducted a longitudinal study on viral load and cytokine dynamics in individuals with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. We used reverse transcriptase droplet digital PCR to quantify viral RNA from nasopharyngeal swabs and employed multiplex technology to measure plasma cytokine levels in a cohort of people with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study included individuals with long COVID condition and those without, all of whom had at least three nasopharyngeal and plasma samples collected within 55 days after diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESULTS: Individuals affected with long COVID symptoms had delayed viral clearance and lower viral loads at diagnosis compared to those without symptoms. Additionally, cytokine analysis revealed variations in IL-18, MIG, and IP-10 levels, with delayed normalization in individuals affected by long COVID syndrome. Correlation analysis indicated associations between viral load and IP-10 and interrelations among cytokines IL-1β, IL-18, MIG, and IP-10.

CONCLUSION: Our study provides insights into the association between nasopharyngeal viral load, cytokine dynamics, and the development of long COVID syndrome, providing an early signature of this condition.},
}

Humans
*Viral Load
*COVID-19/virology/blood/diagnosis
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/genetics
*Cytokines/blood
Male
Female
Middle Aged
Longitudinal Studies
Aged
Adult
Hospitalization
RNA, Viral/blood
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Nasopharynx/virology

@article {pmid39799876,
year = {2025},
author = {Muzaffar-Ur-Rehman, M and Chougule, KS and Chandu, A and Kuthe, PV and Garg, M and Sankaranarayanan, M and Vasan, SS},
title = {In silico evaluation of bisphosphonates identifies leading candidates for SARS-CoV-2 RdRp inhibition.},
journal = {Journal of molecular graphics & modelling},
volume = {136},
number = {},
pages = {108939},
doi = {10.1016/j.jmgm.2024.108939},
pmid = {39799876},
issn = {1873-4243},
abstract = {The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in 777 million confirmed cases and over 7 million deaths worldwide, with insufficient treatment options. Innumerable efforts are being made around the world for faster identification of therapeutic agents to treat the deadly disease. Post Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 (PASC), also called Long COVID, is still being understood and lacks treatment options as well. A growing list of drugs are being suggested by various in silico, in vitro and ex vivo models, however currently only two treatment options are widely used: the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) inhibitor remdesivir, and the main protease inhibitor nirmatrelvir in combination with ritonavir. Computational drug development tools and in silico studies involving molecular docking, molecular dynamics, entropy calculations and pharmacokinetics can be useful to identify new targets to treat COVID-19 and PASC, as shown in this work and our recent paper that identified alendronate as a promising candidate. In this study, we have investigated all bisphosphonates (BPs) on the ChEMBL database which can bind competitively to nidovirus RdRp-associated nucleotidyl (NiRAN) transferase domain, and systematically down selected seven candidates (CHEMBL608526, CHEMBL196676, CHEMBL164344, CHEMBL4291724, CHEMBL4569308, CHEMBL387132, CHEMBL98211), two of which closely resemble the approved drugs minodronate and zoledronate. This work and our recent paper together provide an in silico mechanistic explanation for alendronate and zoledronate users having dramatically reduced odds of SARS-CoV-2 testing, COVID-19 diagnosis, and COVID-19-related hospitalizations, and indicate that similar observational studies in Japan with minodronate could be valuable.},
}

@article {pmid39799724,
year = {2025},
author = {Betancourt-Peña, J and Rodriguez-Castro, J and Perez-Hortua, V and Ávila-Valencia, JC and Benavides-Córdoba, V},
title = {[Post-COVID-19 Functional status scale: Concordance between evaluator-administered versus self-assessed version in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome].},
journal = {Rehabilitacion},
volume = {59},
number = {1},
pages = {100878},
doi = {10.1016/j.rh.2024.100878},
pmid = {39799724},
issn = {1578-3278},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 may present sequelae which are called Post COVID-19 Syndrome or Long COVID in which physical, psychological and/or social complications are evident. The objective of this study was to evaluate the agreement of the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale (PCFS) of the evaluator-administered version vs patient self-assessed in post-COVID-19 patients.

METHODS: Observational study in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 with subsequent recovery. Once the project was approved by the ethics committee and the patients signed the informed consent, a survey was carried out to collect sociodemographic and clinical data and the application of the PCFS scale, in its two forms, self-administered and by an evaluator.

RESULTS: 97 patients entered the study, 57.7% being women. The agreement analysis determined a concordance index of 0.857 95% CI (0.7-0.934) (almost perfect agreement). The agreement for women was 0.817 95% CI 0.700-0.934 and for men 0.907 95% CI (0.806-1).

CONCLUSION: The use of the Spanish version of the PCFS scale carried out by the health professional compared to the version self-assessed by patients, demonstrates adequate agreement.},
}

@article {pmid39799217,
year = {2025},
author = {Charles James, J and Schulze, H and Siems, N and Prehn, C and Quast, DR and Trampe, N and Gold, R and Faissner, S},
title = {Neurological post-COVID syndrome is associated with substantial impairment of verbal short-term and working memory.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {1695},
pmid = {39799217},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *COVID-19/psychology/complications/epidemiology ; *Neuropsychological Tests ; *Memory, Short-Term ; Adult ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Aged ; Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Fatigue/etiology ; },
abstract = {A substantial proportion of patients suffer from Post-COVID Syndrome (PCS) with fatigue and impairment of memory and concentration being the most important symptoms. We here set out to perform in-depth neuropsychological assessment of PCS patients referred to the Neurologic PCS clinic compared to patients without sequelae after COVID-19 (non-PCS) and healthy controls (HC) to decipher the most prevalent cognitive deficits. We included n = 60 PCS patients with neurologic symptoms, n = 15 non-PCS patients and n = 15 healthy controls. Basic socioeconomic data and subjective complaints were recorded. This was followed by a detailed neuropsychological test battery, including assessments of general orientation, motor and cognitive fatigue, screening of depressive and anxiety symptoms, information processing speed, concentration, visuomotor processing speed, attention, verbal short-term and working memory, cognitive flexibility, semantic and phonematic word fluency, as well as verbal and visual memory functions. Neurologic PCS patients had more complaints with significantly higher fatigue scores as well as higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms compared to Non-PCS and HC. Deep neuropsychological assessment showed that neurologic PCS patients performed worse in a general screening of cognitive deficits compared to HC. Neurologic PCS patients showed impaired mental flexibility as an executive subfunction, verbal short-term memory, working memory and general reactivity (prolonged reaction time). Multiple regression showed fatigue affected processing speed; depression did not. Self-reported cognitive deficits of patients with neurologic PCS including fatigue, concentration, and memory deficits, are well mirrored in impaired performance of cognitive domains of concentration and working memory. The present results should be considered to optimize treatment algorithms for therapy and rehabilitation programs of PCS patients with neurologic symptoms.},
}

Humans
Male
Female
Middle Aged
*COVID-19/psychology/complications/epidemiology
*Neuropsychological Tests
*Memory, Short-Term
Adult
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Aged
Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Fatigue/etiology

@article {pmid39798903,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, S and Lee, YW and Choi, S and Jo, H and Kim, N and Cho, S and Lee, E and Choi, EB and Park, I and Jeon, Y and Noh, H and Seok, SH and Oh, SH and Choi, YK and Kwon, HK and Seo, JY and Nam, KT and Park, JW and Choi, KS and Lee, HY and Yun, JW and Seong, JK},
title = {Post-COVID metabolic enzyme alterations in K18-hACE2 mice exacerbate alcohol-induced liver injury through transcriptional regulation.},
journal = {Free radical biology & medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2025.01.015},
pmid = {39798903},
issn = {1873-4596},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), poses a significant threat to global public health. Despite reports of liver injury during viral disease, the occurrence and detailed mechanisms underlying the development of secondary exogenous liver injury, particularly in relation to changes in metabolic enzymes, remain to be fully elucidated. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2-induced molecular alterations in hepatic metabolism and the consequent secondary liver injury resulting from alcohol exposure. We investigated the potential effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on alcohol-induced liver injury in Keratin 18 promoter-human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (K18-hACE2) transgenic mice. Mice were intranasally infected with 1×10[2] PFU of SARS-CoV-2. Following a 14 d recovery period from infection, the recovered mice were orally administered alcohol at 6 g/kg. Prior SARS-CoV-2 infection aggravated alcohol-induced liver injury based on increased alanine aminotransferase levels and cytoplasmic vacuolation. Interestingly, infected mice exhibited lower blood alcohol levels and higher levels of acetaldehyde, a toxic alcohol metabolite, compared to uninfected mice after the same period of alcohol consumption. Along with alterations of several metabolic process-related terms identified through RNA sequencing, notably, upregulation of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and CYP1A2 was observed in infected mice compared to control value prior to alcohol exposure, with no significant impact of SARS-CoV-2 on intestinal damage. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha persistently showed upregulated expression in the infected mice; it also enhanced aryl hydrocarbon receptor and Sp1 expressions and their binding activity to Cyp1a2 and Cyp2e1 promoters, respectively, in hepatocytes, promoting the upregulation of their transcription. Our findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection exacerbates alcohol-induced liver injury through the transcriptional activation of Cyp1a2 and Cyp2e1, providing valuable insights for the development of clinical recommendations on long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid39798220,
year = {2025},
author = {Vo, HT and Dao, TV and Do, TX and Do, BN and Nguyen, TT and Pham, KM and Vu, VH and Pham, LV and Nguyen, LTH and Le, LTH and Nguyen, HC and Tran, TV and Nguyen, TH and Nguyen, AT and Nguyen, HV and Nguyen, PB and Pham, TTM and Dao, TD and Le, TT and Nguyen, TTP and Tran, CQ and Nguyen, KT and Duong, TV},
title = {Association between underlying health conditions and long COVID among non-hospitalized and hospitalized individuals as modified by health literacy: A multi-center study.},
journal = {Public health},
volume = {239},
number = {},
pages = {87-93},
doi = {10.1016/j.puhe.2024.12.032},
pmid = {39798220},
issn = {1476-5616},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effect modification of health literacy (HL) in ameliorating the negative impact of underlying health conditions (UHC) on long COVID among non-hospitalized and hospitalized survivors.

STUDY DESIGN: An online cross-sectional study was conducted in Vietnam from December 2021 to October 2022.

METHODS: A sample of 4507 participants recruited from 18 hospitals and health centers were those aged 18 or older, had contracted COVID-19 for at least 28 days, and were not in the acute phase of reinfection. Participants reported their long COVID symptoms, UHC, health literacy, socio-demographics, clinical parameters, the COVID-19 impact battery disability scale, and health-related behaviors. The logistic regression models were used to examine the associations and interactions.

RESULTS: Underlying health conditions were associated with a higher likelihood of long COVID in non-hospitalized participants (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 2.10 [1.61, 2.61]; p < 0.001), and hospitalized ones (aOR = 2.26 [1.87, 2.73]; p < 0.001). In non-hospitalized participants, higher HL scores were significantly linked to a reduced likelihood of experiencing long COVID (aOR = 0.96 [0.95, 0.97]; p < 0.001). Furthermore, HL moderated the adverse effect of underlying health conditions (UHC) on long COVID in this group (aOR = 0.97 [0.94-0.99]; p = 0.042). In hospitalized participants, although higher HL scores were also associated with a lower risk of long COVID (aOR = 0.99 [0.98-0.99]; p = 0.036), HL did not significantly mitigate the negative impact of UHC on long COVID (aOR = 1.01 [0.99-1.03]; p = 0.332).

CONCLUSIONS: In non-hospitalized individuals, high health literacy ameliorated the negative impact of UHC on long COVID. Such effects of health literacy were not observed in hospitalized COVID-19 survivors.},
}

@article {pmid39797180,
year = {2024},
author = {Godfrey, B and Shardha, J and Witton, S and Bodey, R and Tarrant, R and Greenwood, DC and Sivan, M},
title = {A Personalised Pacing and Active Rest Rehabilitation Programme for Post-Exertional Symptom Exacerbation and Health Status in Long COVID (PACELOC): A Prospective Cohort Study.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm14010097},
pmid = {39797180},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background: Post-COVID-19 Syndrome or long COVID (LC) is a novel public health crisis and, when persistent (>2 years), is a long-term condition. Post-exertional symptom exacerbation (PESE) is a characteristic symptom of LC and can be improved in a structured pacing rehabilitation programme. Aims: To evaluate the effect of an 8-week structured World Health Organisation (WHO) Borg CR-10 pacing protocol on PESE episodes, LC symptoms, and quality of life in a cohort of individuals with long-term LC. Methods: Participants received weekly telephone calls with a clinician to discuss their activity phase, considering their PESE symptoms that week. They completed the Leeds PESE questionnaire (LPQ), C19-YRS (Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale), and EQ-5D-5L at the beginning of the programme (0 weeks), the end of programme (8 weeks), and at final follow-up (12 weeks). Results: Thirty-one participants (duration of LC symptoms: 29 months) completed the programme. The PESE episodes decreased in number each week (15% fewer each week, 95% CI: 11% to 20%, p < 0.001) and were of shorter duration and milder severity each week. The changes in C19YRS symptom severity and functional disability (0-12 weeks) were statistically significant but not clinically significant. The EQ5D-5L index score change was not statistically significant. Conclusions: A structured pacing protocol effectively reduced PESE episode frequency, duration, and severity but did not produce clinically significant changes in LC symptoms, reflecting the long-term nature of the condition in this cohort.},
}

@article {pmid39796218,
year = {2025},
author = {Yip, JMX and Chiang, GSH and Lee, ICJ and Lehming-Teo, R and Dai, K and Dongol, L and Wang, LY and Teo, D and Seah, GT and Lehming, N},
title = {Mitochondria and the Repurposing of Diabetes Drugs for Off-Label Health Benefits.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26010364},
pmid = {39796218},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {A-8000724-00-00//Ministry of Education/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Repositioning/methods ; *Mitochondria/metabolism/drug effects ; *Hypoglycemic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Metformin/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19/metabolism/virology ; Off-Label Use ; Diabetes Mellitus/drug therapy/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {This review describes our current understanding of the role of the mitochondria in the repurposing of the anti-diabetes drugs metformin, gliclazide, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors for additional clinical benefits regarding unhealthy aging, long COVID, mental neurogenerative disorders, and obesity. Metformin, the most prominent of these diabetes drugs, has been called the "Drug of Miracles and Wonders," as clinical trials have found it to be beneficial for human patients suffering from these maladies. To promote viral replication in all infected human cells, SARS-CoV-2 stimulates the infected liver cells to produce glucose and to export it into the blood stream, which can cause diabetes in long COVID patients, and metformin, which reduces the levels of glucose in the blood, was shown to cut the incidence rate of long COVID in half for all patients recovering from SARS-CoV-2. Metformin leads to the phosphorylation of the AMP-activated protein kinase AMPK, which accelerates the import of glucose into cells via the glucose transporter GLUT4 and switches the cells to the starvation mode, counteracting the virus. Diabetes drugs also stimulate the unfolded protein response and thus mitophagy, which is beneficial for healthy aging and mental health. Diabetes drugs were also found to mimic exercise and help to reduce body weight.},
}

Humans
*Drug Repositioning/methods
*Mitochondria/metabolism/drug effects
*Hypoglycemic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Metformin/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19/metabolism/virology
Off-Label Use
Diabetes Mellitus/drug therapy/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid39795908,
year = {2024},
author = {Luzak, B and Golanski, J and Rozalski, M},
title = {Complex Pattern of Platelet Activation/Reactivity After SARS-CoV-2 Infection.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26010049},
pmid = {39795908},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {503/6-020-01/503-61-001//Medical University of Lodz, Poland/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood/virology/immunology ; *Platelet Activation ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Blood Platelets/metabolism ; Platelet Aggregation ; Platelet Function Tests ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 and post-COVID (long COVID) are associated with thromboembolic complications; however, it is still not clear whether platelets play a leading role in this phenomenon. The platelet hyperreactivity could result from the direct interaction between platelets and viral elements or the response to inflammatory and prothrombotic factors released from blood and vessel cells following infection. The existing literature does not provide clear-cut answers, as the results determining platelet status vary according to methodology. Elevated levels of soluble markers of platelet activation (P selectin, PF4), increased platelet aggregates, and platelet-derived microparticles suggest the activation of platelets circulating in the bloodstream of COVID-19 patients. Similarly, platelets isolated from COVID-19 patients demonstrate increased reactivity in response to collagen, thrombin, and ADP. By contrast, an analysis of whole blood from COVID-19 patients indicates the reduced activation of the fibrinogen receptor. Similarly, some in vitro studies report potential targets for SARS-CoV-2 in platelets, whereas others do not indicate any direct effect of the virus on platelets. The aim of this work is to review and evaluate the reliability of the methodology for testing platelet function after contact with SARS-CoV-2. Despite the diversity of methods yielding varying results and the influence of plasma components or blood cells, it can be concluded that platelets play an important role in the development of thrombotic complications after exposure to SARS-CoV-2.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood/virology/immunology
*Platelet Activation
*SARS-CoV-2
*Blood Platelets/metabolism
Platelet Aggregation
Platelet Function Tests

@article {pmid39791670,
year = {2025},
author = {Berti, LC and Gauy, M and da Silva, LCS and Rios, JVV and Morais, VB and Almeida, TC and Sossolete, LS and Quirino, JHM and Martins, CFP and Fernandes-Svartman, FR and Raposo de Medeiros, B and Queiroz, M and Gazzola, M and Finger, M},
title = {Acoustic Characteristics of Voice and Speech in Post-COVID-19.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13010063},
pmid = {39791670},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {Finance Code 001//Coordenação de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 306919/2023-0//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 2023/00488-5; 2022/16374-6//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The aim of this paper was to compare voice and speech characteristics between post-COVID-19 and control subjects. The hypothesis was that acoustic parameters of voice and speech may differentiate subjects infected by COVID-19 from control subjects. Additionally, we expected to observe the persistence of symptoms in women.

METHODS: In total, 134 subjects participated in the study, were selected for convenience and divided into two groups: 70 control subjects and 64 post-COVID-19 subjects, with an average time of 8.7 months after infection. The recordings were made using the SPIRA software (v.1.0.) on cell phones, based on three verbal tasks: sustained production of the vowel/a/, reading a sentence, and producing a rhyme. Acoustic analyses of speech and voice were carried out with the PRAAT software (v.4.3.18), based on the following parameters: total sentence duration, number of pauses, pause duration, f0, f0SD, jitter, shimmer, and harmonics-to-noise ratio (HNR).

RESULTS: Regarding the acoustic characteristics of speech, there were no differences between the groups or between the sexes. Regarding the acoustic characteristics of voice, jitter, shimmer, and HNR, significant differences between the groups were found. Differences between sexes were observed in the following frequency-related parameters: f0, f0SD, and jitter.

CONCLUSIONS: Some acoustic characteristics of the patients' voice may show a deteriorated condition even after exacerbation of the disease. These characteristics are compatible with some of the symptoms reported by post-COVID-19 subjects, such as the presence of tension and fatigue. These voice acoustic parameters could be used as biomarkers to screen voice disorders in long-COVID, using artificial intelligence (AI), accelerating the search for diagnosis by specialists.},
}

@article {pmid39791609,
year = {2024},
author = {Anastácio, ZC and Fernandes, SC and Alves, RF and Antão, CM and Carvalho, PO and Benevides Ferreira, SM and Condessa, MIC},
title = {Relation Between COVID-19 Infection and Vaccine and Menstrual Cycle Changes of Portuguese Adolescents in Higher Education.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13010002},
pmid = {39791609},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {CIEC, University of Minho, UIDB/00317/2020 and UIDP/00317/2020//FCT, Foundation for Science and Technology/ ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: In a period globally known as long COVID, several post-acute infection sequelae and vaccination effects have been discussed.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to identify the effects of COVID-19 infection and vaccines on the menstrual cycle of adolescents attending higher education and to verify the association between personal health factors and changes in their menstrual cycle after contact with the virus SARS-CoV-2 via infection or via the vaccine.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire for data collection, applied online to Portuguese higher education adolescents aged between 18 and 24. The sample included 401 individuals. The statistical analysis of data was performed using SPSS.

RESULTS: More than half of the sample had a COVID-19 infection only once and took two doses of the vaccine. The mRNA Comirnaty 30 µg BioNTech vaccine was administered to 73.1%. The most common menstrual changes were an increase in blood clots, the blood becoming darker, shorter menstrual cycles, scarcer blood flow, and more irregular cycles. Menstrual changes correlated significantly with vaccination but not with infection.

CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a lower percentage of women affected than other studies carried out closer to the pandemic period, which could mean that the effects are diminishing over time. Thus, adolescents' menstrual health should be monitored.},
}

@article {pmid39790367,
year = {2025},
author = {Kuon, CP},
title = {I'm Not the Doctor for You: Cognitive Bias, Complex Illness, and a Moral Imperative.},
journal = {Global advances in integrative medicine and health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {27536130241311594},
pmid = {39790367},
issn = {2753-6130},
abstract = {Cognitive Bias and the Treatment of Complex Illnesses: A Reflection on Substance Use Disorder and Long COVID. Physicians use anchoring and confirmation bias every day to make snap decisions about patient care. However, in the case of poorly understood complex illness, cognitive bias can lead to poor outcomes for the patient. This article explores how recognizing and overcoming cognitive bias leads to increased personal career satisfaction, and improved patient outcomes. In an era where health disparities are increasingly recognized, and in the post-COVID era in particular, there's a need to recognize cognitive bias against complex illnesses such as Long COVID and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It may even be a moral imperative.},
}

@article {pmid39789478,
year = {2025},
author = {Du, M and Yang, P and Li, M and Yu, X and Wang, S and Li, T and Huang, C and Liu, M and Song, C and Liu, J},
title = {Effects of sleep quality on the risk of various long COVID symptoms among older adults following infection: an observational study.},
journal = {BMC geriatrics},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {20},
pmid = {39789478},
issn = {1471-2318},
support = {C202012016//Yunnan Province-Chunchenjihua/ ; XDYC-MY-2022-0071//Yunnan Province-Xingdian talent support program/ ; 71934002, 72122001//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Male ; Aged ; Female ; *Sleep Quality ; Middle Aged ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Aged, 80 and over ; China/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Sleep Wake Disorders/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The long-term sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its recovery have becoming significant public health concerns. Therefore, this study aimed to enhance the limited evidence regarding the relationship between sleep quality on long COVID among the older population aged 60 years or old.

METHODS: Our study included 4,781 COVID-19 patients enrolled from April to May 2023, based on the Peking University Health Cohort. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale. Long COVID was evaluated by well-trained health professionals through patients' self-reported symptoms. Binary logistic regression models were employed to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

RESULTS: The prevalence of long COVID among older adults was 57.4% (2,743/4,781). Specifically, the prevalence of general symptoms, cardiovascular symptoms, respiratory symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, and neurological and psychiatric symptoms was 47.7% (2,282/4,781), 3.4% (163/4,781), 35.2% (1683/4,781), 8.7% (416/4,781) and 5.8% (279/4,781), respectively. For each one-point increase in PSQI scores, the risk of long COVID, general symptoms, cardiovascular symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, and neurological and psychiatric symptoms increased by 3% (95% CI: 1.01, 1.06), 3% (95% CI: 1.01, 1.06), 7% (95% CI: 1.01, 1.13), 11% (95% CI: 1.07, 1.15), and 20% (95% CI: 1.15, 1.25), respectively. In multivariate models, compared with good sleepers, COVID-19 patients with poor sleep quality exhibited an increased risk of general symptoms (aOR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.33), cardiovascular symptoms (aOR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.06, 2.14), gastrointestinal symptoms (aOR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.61, 2.54), and neurological and psychiatric symptoms (aOR = 2.57; 95% CI = 1.96, 3.37).

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that poor sleep quality is related to various manifestations of long COVID in older populations. A comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary management of sleep health and long COVID may be essential to ensure healthy aging in the future.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Male
Aged
Female
*Sleep Quality
Middle Aged
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Aged, 80 and over
China/epidemiology
Risk Factors
Sleep Wake Disorders/epidemiology
Prevalence
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39787064,
year = {2025},
author = {Jacobs, JJL and Beekers, I and Verkouter, I and Richards, LB and Vegelien, A and Bloemsma, LD and Bongaerts, VAMC and Cloos, J and Erkens, F and Gradowska, P and Hort, S and Hudecek, M and Juan, M and Maitland-van der Zee, AH and Navarro-Velázquez, S and Ngai, LL and Rafiq, QA and Sanges, C and Tettero, J and van Os, HJA and Vos, RC and de Wit, Y and van Dijk, S},
title = {A data management system for precision medicine.},
journal = {PLOS digital health},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {e0000464},
pmid = {39787064},
issn = {2767-3170},
abstract = {Precision, or personalised medicine has advanced requirements for medical data management systems (MedDMSs). MedDMS for precision medicine should be able to process hundreds of parameters from multiple sites, be adaptable while remaining in sync at multiple locations, real-time syncing to analytics and be compliant with international privacy legislation. This paper describes the LogiqSuite software solution, aimed to support a precision medicine solution at the patient care (LogiqCare), research (LogiqScience) and data science (LogiqAnalytics) level. LogiqSuite is certified and compliant with international medical data and privacy legislations. This paper evaluates a MedDMS in five types of use cases for precision medicine, ranging from data collection to algorithm development and from implementation to integration with real-world data. The MedDMS is evaluated in seven precision medicine data science projects in prehospital triage, cardiovascular disease, pulmonology, and oncology. The P4O2 consortium uses the MedDMS as an electronic case report form (eCRF) that allows real-time data management and analytics in long covid and pulmonary diseases. In an acute myeloid leukaemia, study data from different sources were integrated to facilitate easy descriptive analytics for various research questions. In the AIDPATH project, LogiqCare is used to process patient data, while LogiqScience is used for pseudonymous CAR-T cell production for cancer treatment. In both these oncological projects the data in LogiqAnalytics is also used to facilitate machine learning to develop new prediction models for clinical-decision support (CDS). The MedDMS is also evaluated for real-time recording of CDS data from U-Prevent for cardiovascular risk management and from the Stroke Triage App for prehospital triage. The MedDMS is discussed in relation to other solutions for privacy-by-design, integrated data stewardship and real-time data analytics in precision medicine. LogiqSuite is used for multi-centre research study data registrations and monitoring, data analytics in interdisciplinary consortia, design of new machine learning / artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, development of new or updated prediction models, integration of care with advanced therapy production, and real-world data monitoring in using CDS tools. The integrated MedDMS application supports data management for care and research in precision medicine.},
}

@article {pmid39781525,
year = {2025},
author = {Peramaiyan, R and Anthony, J and Varalakshmi, S and Sekar, AK and Ali, EM and A, AHS and Abdallah, BM},
title = {Comparison of the role of vitamin D in normal organs and those affected by COVID-19.},
journal = {International journal of medical sciences},
volume = {22},
number = {2},
pages = {240-251},
pmid = {39781525},
issn = {1449-1907},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Vitamin D ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/immunology/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Dietary Supplements ; },
abstract = {The outbreak of COVID-19 has opened up new avenues for exploring the importance of vitamin D in immunity, in addition to its role in calcium absorption. Recently, vitamin D supplementation has been found to enhance T regulatory lymphocytes, which are reduced in individuals with COVID-19. Increased risk of pneumonia and increases in inflammatory cytokines have been reported to be major threats associated with vitamin-D deficiency. Although vaccination reduces the threat of COVID-19 to a certain extent, herd immunity is the long-term solution to overcoming such diseases. Co-administration of vitamin D with certain inactivated vaccines has been reported to enhance the systemic immune response through stimulation of the production of antigen-specific mucosal immunity. COVID-19 was found to induce multiple organ damage, and vitamin D has a beneficial role in various organs, such as the intestines, pancreas, prostate, kidneys, liver, heart, brain, and immune cells. The consequences that occur after COVID-19 infection known as long COVID-19 are also a concern as they accumulate and target multiple organs, leading to immune dysregulation. The present review covers the overall role and impact of vitamin D and its deficiency for various organs in normal conditions and after COVID-19 infection, which is still a serious issue.},
}

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

@article {pmid39779922,
year = {2025},
author = {Combet, E and Haag, L and Richardson, J and Haig, CE and Cunningham, Y and Fraser, HL and Brosnahan, N and Ibbotson, T and Ormerod, J and White, C and McIntosh, E and O'Donnell, CA and Sattar, N and McConnachie, A and Lean, MEJ and Blane, DN},
title = {Remotely delivered weight management for people with long COVID and overweight: the randomized wait-list-controlled ReDIRECT trial.},
journal = {Nature medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39779922},
issn = {1546-170X},
support = {COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; COV-LT2-0059//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; },
abstract = {Long COVID (LC) is a complex multisymptom condition with no known disease-modifying treatments. This wait-list-controlled open-label trial tested whether a remotely delivered structured weight management program could improve respective LC symptoms in people living with overweight. Adults with LC (symptoms >12 weeks) and body mass index >27 kg m[-2] (>25 kg m[-2] for South Asians) were randomized (n = 234, 1:1) to control (n = 116, usual care) or the remotely delivered structured weight management (n = 118, total diet replacement (850 kcal per day) for 12 weeks, followed by food reintroduction and weight loss maintenance support) via minimization and randomization (80:20) to balance dominant LC symptom, sex, age, ethnicity and postcode-based index of multiple deprivation between groups. The control group received the intervention after 6 months. Participants selected the dominant LC symptom they would most like to improve (fatigue, breathlessness, pain, anxiety/depression or other) as the prespecified respective primary outcome. Individual symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires and a visual analog scale for those without prespecified scales. At 6 months, the primary outcome improved in the intervention group (change -1.16 (s.d. 1.42), n = 97 analyzed) compared with the control group (change -0.83 (s.d. 1.14), n = 117 analyzed) with a treatment effect of -0.34 (95% confidence interval -0.67 to -0.01), with no excess of serious adverse events. International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Registry registration: ISRCTN 12595520 .},
}

@article {pmid39778322,
year = {2024},
author = {Dal-Pizzol, F and Kluwe-Schiavon, B and Dal-Pizzol, HR and da Silveira Prestes, G and Dominguini, D and Girardi, CS and Santos, L and Moreira, JCF and Gelain, DP and Walz, R and Barichello, T and Ritter, C},
title = {Association of systemic inflammation and long-term dysfunction in COVID-19 patients: A prospective cohort.},
journal = {Psychoneuroendocrinology},
volume = {172},
number = {},
pages = {107269},
doi = {10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107269},
pmid = {39778322},
issn = {1873-3360},
abstract = {COVID-19 has significant long-term impacts, including a chronic syndrome known as long-COVID, characterized by persistent symptoms post-recovery. The inflammatory response during acute infection is hypothesized to influence long-term outcomes. This study aimed to identify inflammatory biomarkers predictive of functional outcomes one year after hospital discharge. A prospective cohort study was conducted with 213 COVID-19 patients admitted to ICUs in Southern Brazil between June and November 2020. After exclusions and follow-ups, 109 patients were evaluated for one-year post-discharge. Plasma levels of Th1 (TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-12), Th2 (IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13), and Th17 (IL-17, IL-22) cytokines were measured. Functional outcomes in psychiatric, cognitive, general health, and health perception domains were assessed. Statistical analyses included multivariate regression, regularized partial correlation network analysis, and K-means clustering. We demonstrate that plasma levels of various cytokines, along with demographic and clinical characteristics, can predict four distinct domains of functional outcomes one year following hospital discharge due to COVID-19 and that an hyperinflammatory phenotype was associated with the occurrence of a worse in psychiatric, general health, and health perception domains. The network analysis highlighted complex interconnections among immune markers and clinical variables, elucidating their roles in long-term health. These findings support using biomarkers for patient stratification and indicate potential targets for therapeutic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid39777702,
year = {2025},
author = {Fekete, M and Lehoczki, A and Szappanos, Á and Toth, A and Mahdi, M and Sótonyi, P and Benyó, Z and Yabluchanskiy, A and Tarantini, S and Ungvari, Z},
title = {Cerebromicrovascular mechanisms contributing to long COVID: implications for neurocognitive health.},
journal = {GeroScience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39777702},
issn = {2509-2723},
support = {RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00003//Nemzeti Kutatási, Fejlesztési és Innovaciós Alap/ ; TKP2021-NKTA-47//Nemzeti Kutatási Fejlesztési és Innovációs Hivatal/ ; },
abstract = {Long COVID (also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection [PASC] or post-COVID syndrome) is characterized by persistent symptoms that extend beyond the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection, affecting approximately 10% to over 30% of those infected. It presents a significant clinical challenge, notably due to pronounced neurocognitive symptoms such as brain fog. The mechanisms underlying these effects are multifactorial, with mounting evidence pointing to a central role of cerebromicrovascular dysfunction. This review investigates key pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to cerebrovascular dysfunction in long COVID and their impacts on brain health. We discuss how endothelial tropism of SARS-CoV-2 and direct vascular infection trigger endothelial dysfunction, impaired neurovascular coupling, and blood-brain barrier disruption, resulting in compromised cerebral perfusion. Furthermore, the infection appears to induce mitochondrial dysfunction, enhancing oxidative stress and inflammation within cerebral endothelial cells. Autoantibody formation following infection also potentially exacerbates neurovascular injury, contributing to chronic vascular inflammation and ongoing blood-brain barrier compromise. These factors collectively contribute to the emergence of white matter hyperintensities, promote amyloid pathology, and may accelerate neurodegenerative processes, including Alzheimer's disease. This review also emphasizes the critical role of advanced imaging techniques in assessing cerebromicrovascular health and the need for targeted interventions to address these cerebrovascular complications. A deeper understanding of the cerebrovascular mechanisms of long COVID is essential to advance targeted treatments and mitigate its long-term neurocognitive consequences.},
}

@article {pmid39777257,
year = {2025},
author = {Mukherjee, S and Singer, T and Venkatesh, A and Choudhury, NA and Perez Giraldo, GS and Jimenez, M and Miller, J and Lopez, M and Hanson, BA and Bawa, AP and Batra, A and Liotta, EM and Koralnik, IJ},
title = {Vaccination prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection does not affect the neurologic manifestations of long COVID.},
journal = {Brain communications},
volume = {7},
number = {1},
pages = {fcae448},
pmid = {39777257},
issn = {2632-1297},
abstract = {Persistent symptoms after COVID-19 constitute the long COVID syndrome, also called post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). COVID-19 vaccines reduce the gravity of ensuing SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, whether vaccines also have an impact on PASC remain unknown. We investigated whether vaccination prior to infection alters the subsequent neurologic post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (Neuro-PASC). We studied prospectively the first consecutive 200 post-hospitalization Neuro-PASC (PNP) and 1100 non-hospitalized Neuro-PASC (NNP) patients evaluated at our neuro-COVID-19 clinic between May 2020 and January 2023. Among PNP patients, 87% had a pre-vaccination infection and 13% had a breakthrough infection post-vaccination. Among the NNP patients, 70.7% had a pre-vaccination infection and 29.3% had a breakthrough infection. Both PNP and NNP breakthrough infection patients had more frequent pre-existing depression/anxiety than their respective pre-vaccination infection groups, and NNP breakthrough infection patients also had more frequent comorbidities of headache, lung and gastrointestinal diseases than the NNP pre-vaccination infection group. An average of 10 months after symptom onset, the three most common neurological symptoms for PNP patients were brain fog (86.5%), numbness/tingling (56.5%) and headache (56.5%). Of all Neuro-PASC symptoms, PNP breakthrough infection more frequently reported anosmia compared to PNP pre-vaccination infection patients (69.2 versus 37.9%; P = 0.005). For NNP patients, the three most common neurological symptoms were brain fog (83.9%), headache (70.9%) and dizziness (53.8%). NNP pre-vaccination infection reported anosmia (56.6 versus 39.1%; P < 0.0001) and dysgeusia (53.3 versus 37.3%; P < 0.0001) more frequently than breakthrough infection patients. NNP breakthrough infection more frequently reported dizziness compared to NNP pre-vaccination infection patients (61.5 versus 50.6%; P = 0.001). Both PNP and NNP patients had impaired quality-of-life in cognitive, fatigue, sleep, anxiety and depression domains with no differences between pre-vaccination infection and breakthrough infection groups. PNP patients performed worse on National Institutes of Health Toolbox tests of processing speed, attention, executive function and working memory than a US normative population whereas NNP patients had lower results in processing, speed, attention and working memory, without differences between pre-vaccination infection and breakthrough infection groups. These results indicate that vaccination prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection does not affect the neurologic manifestations of long COVID in either PNP or NNP patients. Minor differences in neurologic symptoms between pre-vaccination infection and breakthrough infection groups may be caused by SARS-CoV-2 strains evolution. Patients developing Neuro-PASC after breakthrough infection have a higher burden of comorbidities, highlighting different risk factors warranting targeted management.},
}

@article {pmid39775442,
year = {2025},
author = {Giannakopoulos, S and Pak, J and Bakse, J and Ward, MA and Nerurkar, VR and Tallquist, MD and Verma, S},
title = {SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine storm drives prolonged testicular injury and functional impairment in mice that are mitigated by dexamethasone.},
journal = {PLoS pathogens},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {e1012804},
pmid = {39775442},
issn = {1553-7374},
mesh = {Animals ; Male ; Mice ; *COVID-19/complications/immunology ; *Dexamethasone/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Testis/pathology/virology/drug effects/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cytokine Release Syndrome/drug therapy ; Testosterone ; Disease Models, Animal ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Humans ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Compromised male reproductive health, including reduced testosterone and sperm count, is one of the long COVID symptoms in individuals recovering from mild-severe disease. COVID-19 patients display testicular injury in the acute stage and altered serum fertility markers in the recovery phase, however, long-term implications on the testis remain unknown. This study characterized the consequences of SARS-CoV-2 on testis function. The K18-hACE2 mice that survived SARS-CoV-2 infection were followed for one month after infection and the testicular injury and function markers were assessed at different stages of infection and recovery. The long-term impact of infection on key testes function-related hormones and male fertility was measured. The efficacy of inflammation-suppressing drug in preventing testicular injury was also evaluated. The morphological defects like sloughing of spermatids into the lumen and increased apoptotic cells sustained for 2-4 weeks after infection and correlated with testicular inflammation and immune cell infiltration. Transcriptomic analysis revealed dysregulation of inflammatory, cell death, and steroidogenic pathways. Furthermore, reduced testosterone levels associated with a transient reduction in sperm count and male fertility. Most testicular impairments resolved within one month of infection. Importantly, dexamethasone treatment attenuated testicular damage, inflammation, and immune infiltration. Our results implicate virus-induced cytokine storm as the major driver of testicular injury and functional impairments, timely prevention of which limits testis damage. These findings serve as a model for evaluating therapeutics in long COVID patients and may guide clinical strategies to improve male reproductive health outcomes post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Animals
Male
Mice
*COVID-19/complications/immunology
*Dexamethasone/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Testis/pathology/virology/drug effects/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2
*Cytokine Release Syndrome/drug therapy
Testosterone
Disease Models, Animal
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Humans
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology

@article {pmid39773837,
year = {2025},
author = {Artemiadis, A and Tofarides, AG and Liampas, A and Ioannou, C and Christodoulou, K and Louka, R and Vavougios, G and Zis, P and Bargiotas, P and Hadjigeorgiou, G},
title = {Factors associated with quality of life in long-COVID syndrome.},
journal = {International journal of rehabilitation research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Rehabilitationsforschung. Revue internationale de recherches de readaptation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/MRR.0000000000000654},
pmid = {39773837},
issn = {1473-5660},
abstract = {Approximately 10% of patients experience persistent symptoms following COVID-19, known as long-COVID syndrome. This cross-sectional study explored factors of quality of life (QoL) in 53 long-COVID patients. QoL was measured using the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index, fatigue with the Fatigue Visual Analogue Scale, and psychological health with the Depression-Anxiety-Stress-21 questionnaire. Six neuropsychological tests assessed information processing speed, verbal memory, visual memory, working memory, attention, language, fluency, recall, and visuospatial function with a composite score calculated by averaging z scores. Patients (76% female, mean age: 54.1 years) were assessed 8.7 months postinfection. Cognitive impairment, present in 49% of the sample, was not associated with QoL. In multiple linear regression, gender, fatigue, and psychological distress accounted for 42% of QoL variance, with fatigue and distress contributing 7% and 11%, respectively. Further studies are needed to determine if fatigue and psychological distress are causally related to QoL in long-COVID and could be treatment targets.},
}

@article {pmid39772268,
year = {2024},
author = {Valkov, T and Argirova, R and Dimitrov, G},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Infection of the Central Nervous System: A Case Report.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v16121962},
pmid = {39772268},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Aged, 80 and over ; },
abstract = {Central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 are uncommon. This case report describes the clinical progression of a 92-year-old female who developed a persistent neuroinfection associated with SARS-CoV-2. The patient initially presented with progressive fatigue, catarrhal symptoms, and a fever (38.6 °C). Initial laboratory findings revealed hypoxemia (O2 saturation 79.8%), acidosis (pH 7.3), an elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) level of 14.8 mg/L, and a high D-dimer level (2.15 µg/mL). Nasopharyngeal (NP) antigen and RT-PCR tests confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, and an NP swab also detected penicillin- and ampicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. She was admitted for conservative management, including oxygen supplementation, IV fluids, and prophylactic anticoagulation. Subsequently, she developed neurological symptoms-lethargy, discoordination, and impaired communication-without signs of meningism. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis identified SARS-CoV-2 RNA (Ct = 29) on RT-PCR, while bacterial cultures remained negative. Treatment was intensified to include 10% mannitol, dexamethasone, and empiric ceftriaxone. Despite these interventions, the patient remained somnolent, with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 10. Upon discharge, her GCS had improved to 14; however, she continued to experience lethargy and cognitive issues, commonly described as "brain fog". Inflammatory markers remained elevated (CRP 23 mg/L) and repeat RT-PCR of CSF confirmed a persistent SARS-CoV-2 presence (Ct = 31). This case underscores the potential for SARS-CoV-2 to cause prolonged CNS involvement, leading to persistent neurological impairment despite standard therapy. Further research is essential to clarify the pathophysiology of and determine optimal management for SARS-CoV-2 neuroinfections.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
*SARS-CoV-2
Aged, 80 and over

@article {pmid39772261,
year = {2024},
author = {Joseph, G and Margalit, I and Weiss-Ottolenghi, Y and Rubin, C and Murad, H and Gardner, RC and Barda, N and Ben-Shachar, E and Indenbaum, V and Gilboa, M and Alroy-Preis, S and Kreiss, Y and Lustig, Y and Regev-Yochay, G},
title = {Persistence of Long COVID Symptoms Two Years After SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39772261},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {no grant number//Ministry of Health Israel/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Aged ; Longitudinal Studies ; Prospective Studies ; Young Adult ; Biomarkers/blood ; Adolescent ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood ; Prevalence ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Millions of individuals worldwide continue to experience symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and phenotype of multi-system symptoms attributed to Long COVID-including fatigue, pain, cognitive-emotional disturbances, headache, cardiopulmonary issues, and alterations in taste and smell-that have persisted for at least two years after acute infection, which we define as "persistent Long COVID". Additionally, the study aimed to identify clinical features and blood biomarkers associated with persistent Long COVID symptoms.

METHODS: We sent a detailed long COVID symptoms questionnaire to an existing cohort of 1258 vaccinated adults (age 18-79 years) who had mild infection (e.g., non-hospitalized) SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant 2 years earlier. These individuals had comprehensive datasets, including blood samples, available for further analysis. We estimated prevalence of persistent long COVID two years post-infection using weighted adjustment (Horvitz-Thompson estimator) to overcome reporting bias. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine association of clinical features and blood biomarkers (pre-infection SARS-CoV-2 RBD-IgG, SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies, and pre-infection and post-infection neurofilament light) with prevalence of persistent long COVID.

RESULTS: N = 323 participants responded to the survey, of whom N = 74 (23%) reported at least one long COVID symptom that had persisted for two years after the acute infection. Weighted prevalence of persistent long COVID symptoms was 21.5% (95% CI = 16.7-26.3%). Female gender, smoking, and severity of acute COVID-19 infection were significantly associated with persistent Long COVID. The blood biomarkers assessed were not significantly associated with persistent Long COVID.

CONCLUSIONS: Among vaccinated adults two years after mild infection with Delta variant SARS-CoV-2, persistent symptoms attributed to Long COVID are extremely common, certain subgroups are at higher risk, and further research into biological mechanisms and potential treatment targets is needed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Middle Aged
Female
Male
Adult
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Aged
Longitudinal Studies
Prospective Studies
Young Adult
Biomarkers/blood
Adolescent
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Antibodies, Viral/blood
Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood
Prevalence
Surveys and Questionnaires

@article {pmid39772223,
year = {2024},
author = {Loutsidi, NE and Politou, M and Vlahakos, V and Korakakis, D and Kassi, T and Nika, A and Pouliakis, A and Eleftheriou, K and Balis, E and Pappas, AG and Kalomenidis, I},
title = {Hypercoagulable Rotational Thromboelastometry During Hospital Stay Is Associated with Post-Discharge DLco Impairment in Patients with COVID-19-Related Pneumonia.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39772223},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/blood ; Male ; Female ; *Thrombelastography ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Aged ; *Thrombophilia/etiology/blood ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Patient Discharge ; Hospitalization ; Blood Coagulation ; },
abstract = {Hypercoagulation is central to the pathogenesis of acute and post-acute COVID-19. This prospective observational study explored whether rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), a method that unveils coagulation status, predicts outcomes of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. We investigated 62 patients using ROTEM that was conducted at enrollment, clinical deterioration, discharge and follow-up visits 1 and 3 months post-discharge. A hypercoagulable ROTEM was more common at clinical deterioration than at enrollment and the levels of hypercoagulable ROTEM indices correlated with the clinical severity score. Hypercoagulable ROTEM at enrollment was not associated with in-hospital death. Patients with hypercoagulable ROTEM at enrollment, discharge and 1 month post-discharge had an increased risk of persistent symptoms 1 and 3 months after discharge. Patients with hypercoagulable ROTEM at enrollment, discharge, and 1 month after discharge were more likely to have lung diffusion capacity (DLco) impairment 3 months after discharge. High levels of hypercoagulable ROTEM indices were associated with the increased risk of persistent symptoms at later stages of the disease. In a multivariate analysis, (i) hypercoagulable ROTEM at discharge and female gender were linked to the presence of symptoms at one month post-discharge, (ii) hypercoagulable ROTEM at one month after discharge was linked to the presence of symptoms at three months post-discharge, (iii) hypercoagulable ROTEM at enrollment and at discharge and female gender were linked to the presence of impaired DLco at three months post-discharge. Excessive coagulation may contribute to long-COVID pathogenesis and ROTEM findings during hospitalization may predict post-acute-COVID-19 sequelae in patients with COVID-19-related pneumonia.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/blood
Male
Female
*Thrombelastography
Middle Aged
Prospective Studies
Aged
*Thrombophilia/etiology/blood
*SARS-CoV-2
Patient Discharge
Hospitalization
Blood Coagulation

@article {pmid39772122,
year = {2024},
author = {Pacnejer, AM and Butuca, A and Dobrea, CM and Arseniu, AM and Frum, A and Gligor, FG and Arseniu, R and Vonica, RC and Vonica-Tincu, AL and Oancea, C and Mogosan, C and Popa Ilie, IR and Morgovan, C and Dehelean, CA},
title = {Neuropsychiatric Burden of SARS-CoV-2: A Review of Its Physiopathology, Underlying Mechanisms, and Management Strategies.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39772122},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {LBUS-IRG-2023/No. 3523, 24 July 2023//Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/psychology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Mental Disorders/therapy/etiology ; Nervous System Diseases/virology/physiopathology ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 outbreak, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, was linked to significant neurological and psychiatric manifestations. This review examines the physiopathological mechanisms underlying these neuropsychiatric outcomes and discusses current management strategies. Primarily a respiratory disease, COVID-19 frequently leads to neurological issues, including cephalalgia and migraines, loss of sensory perception, cerebrovascular accidents, and neurological impairment such as encephalopathy. Lasting neuropsychological effects have also been recorded in individuals following SARS-CoV-2 infection. These include anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction, suggesting a lasting impact on mental health. The neuroinvasive potential of the virus, inflammatory responses, and the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in neuroinflammation are critical factors in neuropsychiatric COVID-19 manifestations. In addition, the review highlights the importance of monitoring biomarkers to assess Central Nervous System (CNS) involvement. Management strategies for these neuropsychiatric conditions include supportive therapy, antiepileptic drugs, antithrombotic therapy, and psychotropic drugs, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Understanding the long-term neuropsychiatric implications of COVID-19 is essential for developing effective treatment protocols and improving patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/psychology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2
Mental Disorders/therapy/etiology
Nervous System Diseases/virology/physiopathology
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism

@article {pmid39772087,
year = {2024},
author = {Quach, TC and Miglis, MG and Tian, L and Bonilla, H and Yang, PC and Grossman, L and Paleru, A and Xin, V and Tiwari, A and Shafer, RW and Geng, LN},
title = {Post-COVID-19 Vaccination and Long COVID: Insights from Patient-Reported Data.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {12},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines12121427},
pmid = {39772087},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 vaccinations reduce the severity and number of symptoms for acute SARS-CoV-2 infections and may reduce the risk of developing Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Limited and heterogenous data exist on how these vaccinations received after COVID-19 infection might impact the symptoms and trajectory of PASC, once persistent symptoms have developed.

METHODS: We investigated the association of post-COVID-19 vaccination with any SARS-CoV-2 vaccine(s) on PASC symptoms in two independent cohorts: a retrospective chart review of self-reported data from patients (n = 128) with PASC seen in the Stanford PASC Clinic between May 2021 and May 2022 and a 2023 multinational survey assessment of individuals with PASC (n = 484).

FINDINGS: Within the PASC Clinic patient cohort (n = 128), 58.6% (n = 75) were female, and 41.4% (n = 53) were male; 50% (n = 64) were white, and 38.3% (n = 49) were non-white. A total of 60.2% (n = 77) of PASC Clinic patients reported no change in their PASC symptoms after vaccination, 17.2% (n = 22) reported improved symptoms, and 22.7% (n = 29) reported worsened symptoms. In the multinational survey cohort (n = 484), 380 were from the U.S., and 104 were from outside the U.S.; 88.4% (n = 428) were female, and 11.6% (n = 56) were male; and 88.8% (n = 430) were white, and 11.2% (n = 54) were non-white. The distribution of survey self-reported vaccine effects on PASC symptoms was 20.2% worsened (n = 98), 60.5% no effect (n = 293), and 19.2% improved (n = 93). In both cohorts, demographic features, including age, sex, and race/ethnicity, were not significantly associated with post-vaccination PASC symptom changes. There was also a non-significant difference in the median dates of COVID-19 infection among the different outcomes. BMI was significant for symptom improvement (p = 0.026) in the PASC Clinic cohort, while a history of booster doses was significant for symptom improvement (p < 0.001) in the survey cohort.

CONCLUSIONS: Most individuals with PASC did not report significant changes in their overall PASC symptoms following COVID-19 vaccinations received after PASC onset. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between COVID-19 vaccinations and PASC.},
}

@article {pmid39772040,
year = {2024},
author = {Platschek, B and Boege, F},
title = {The Post-Acute COVID-19-Vaccination Syndrome in the Light of Pharmacovigilance.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {12},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39772040},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Clinical studies show that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination sometimes entails a severe and disabling chronic syndrome termed post-acute-COVID-19-vaccination syndrome (PACVS). PACVS shares similarities with long COVID. Today, PACVS is still not officially recognised as a disease. In contrast, long COVID was registered by health authorities in December 2021. Here, we address possible reasons for that discrepancy. Methods: We analyse whether common symptoms of PACVS have been registered by European pharmacovigilance as adverse vaccination reactions and which consequences have been drawn thereof. Results: (i) PACVS is distinguished from normal vaccination reactions solely by prolonged duration. (ii) Symptom duration is poorly monitored by post-authorisation pharmacovigilance. (iii) PACVS-specific signals were faithfully recorded by pharmacovigilance systems but have not prompted appropriate reactions of health authorities. (iv) The most widely applied SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-vaccine has been modified after roll-out without renewed phase III evaluation; the modification has increased DNA contaminations suspected to extend the spectrum of adverse events. (v) Crossing of pharmacovigilance data with corresponding estimates of applied vaccine doses suggest a PACVS prevalence of 0.003% in the general population. In contrast, occupational surveillance studies suggest a PACVS prevalence of 0.9% in young and middle-aged persons. Conclusions: (a) Denial of official recognition of PACVS is unjustified. (b) PACVS seems to target preferentially young and middle-aged persons. (c) Without official disease recognition, access to public healthcare and welfare services is made difficult for PACVS-affected persons, which creates considerable socio-economic problems. (d) Without official disease recognition, development and evaluation of PACVS therapies is impaired.},
}

@article {pmid39770368,
year = {2024},
author = {Nakayama, EE and Shioda, T},
title = {Detrimental Effects of Anti-Nucleocapsid Antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Reinfection, and the Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens13121109},
pmid = {39770368},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {JM00000160//Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, CiDER/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *Reinfection/immunology/virology ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; *Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology ; Cytokines/immunology/metabolism ; Receptors, Fc/immunology ; Nucleocapsid/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) is a phenomenon in which antibodies enhance subsequent viral infections rather than preventing them. Sub-optimal levels of neutralizing antibodies in individuals infected with dengue virus are known to be associated with severe disease upon reinfection with a different dengue virus serotype. For Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus type-2 infection, three types of ADE have been proposed: (1) Fc receptor-dependent ADE of infection in cells expressing Fc receptors, such as macrophages by anti-spike antibodies, (2) Fc receptor-independent ADE of infection in epithelial cells by anti-spike antibodies, and (3) Fc receptor-dependent ADE of cytokine production in cells expressing Fc receptors, such as macrophages by anti-nucleocapsid antibodies. This review focuses on the Fc receptor-dependent ADE of cytokine production induced by anti-nucleocapsid antibodies, examining its potential role in severe COVID-19 during reinfection and its contribution to the post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, i.e., prolonged symptoms lasting at least three months after the acute phase of the disease. We also discuss the protective effects of recently identified anti-spike antibodies that neutralize Omicron variants.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*Reinfection/immunology/virology
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
*Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology
Cytokines/immunology/metabolism
Receptors, Fc/immunology
Nucleocapsid/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39768836,
year = {2024},
author = {Strumiliene, E and Urbonienė, J and Jurgauskiene, L and Zeleckiene, I and Bliudzius, R and Malinauskiene, L and Zablockiene, B and Samuilis, A and Jancoriene, L},
title = {Long-Term Pulmonary Sequelae and Immunological Markers in Patients Recovering from Severe and Critical COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Comprehensive Follow-Up Study.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {60},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39768836},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging ; Middle Aged ; Male ; Female ; Prospective Studies ; Follow-Up Studies ; *Respiratory Function Tests ; Lithuania ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Lung/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Biomarkers/blood ; Vital Capacity ; Aged ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {Background and Objectives: Severe and critical COVID-19 pneumonia can lead to long-term complications, especially affecting pulmonary function and immune health. However, the extent and progression of these complications over time are not well understood. This study aimed to assess lung function, radiological changes, and some immune parameters in survivors of severe and critical COVID-19 up to 12 months after hospital discharge. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational cohort study followed 85 adult patients who were hospitalized with severe or critical COVID-19 pneumonia at a tertiary care hospital in Vilnius, Lithuania, for 12 months post-discharge. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), were conducted at 3, 6, and 12 months. High-resolution chest computed tomography (CT) scans assessed residual inflammatory and profibrotic/fibrotic abnormalities. Lymphocyte subpopulations were evaluated via flow cytometry during follow-up visits to monitor immune status. Results: The median age of the cohort was 59 years (IQR: 51-64). Fifty-three (62.4%) patients had critical COVID-19 disease. Pulmonary function improved significantly over time, with increases in FVC, FEV1, VC, TLC, and DLCO. Residual volume (RV) did not change significantly over time, suggesting that some aspects of lung function, such as air trapping, remained stable and may require attention in follow-up care. The percentage of patients with restrictive spirometry patterns decreased from 24.71% at 3 months to 14.8% at 12 months (p < 0.05). Residual inflammatory changes on CT were present in 77.63% at 6 months, decreasing to 69.62% at 12 months (p < 0.001). Profibrotic changes remained prevalent, affecting 82.89% of patients at 6 months and 73.08% at 12 months. Lymphocyte counts declined significantly from 3 to 12 months (2077 cells/µL vs. 1845 cells/µL, p = 0.034), with notable reductions in CD3+ (p = 0.040), CD8+ (p = 0.007), and activated CD3HLA-DR+ cells (p < 0.001). This study found that higher CD4+ T cell counts were associated with worse lung function, particularly reduced total lung capacity (TLC), while higher CD8+ T cell levels were linked to improved pulmonary outcomes, such as increased forced vital capacity (FVC) and vital capacity (VC). Multivariable regression analyses revealed that increased levels of CD4+/CD28+/CD192+ T cells were associated with worsening lung function, while higher CD8+/CD28+/CD192+ T cell counts were linked to better pulmonary outcomes, indicating that immune dysregulation plays a critical role in long-term respiratory recovery. Conclusions: Survivors of severe and critical COVID-19 pneumonia continue to experience significant long-term impairments in lung function and immune system health. Regular monitoring of pulmonary function, radiological changes, and immune parameters is essential for guiding personalized post-COVID-19 care and improving long-term outcomes. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind these complications and to develop targeted interventions for long COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging
Middle Aged
Male
Female
Prospective Studies
Follow-Up Studies
*Respiratory Function Tests
Lithuania
*SARS-CoV-2
*Lung/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Biomarkers/blood
Vital Capacity
Aged
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid39768752,
year = {2024},
author = {Bielecka-Dabrowa, A and Kapusta, J and Sakowicz, A and Banach, M and Jankowski, P and Chudzik, M},
title = {The Influence of Long COVID on the Cardiovascular System and Predictors of Long COVID in Females: Data from the Polish Long COVID Cardiovascular (PoLoCOV-CVD) Study.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {24},
pages = {},
pmid = {39768752},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Female sex is one of the Long COVID (LC) risk factors; however, the LC predictors in females have not been established. This study was conducted to assess the influence of LC on the cardiovascular system and to assess the age-independent predictors of LC in females. Methods: Patient information and the course of the disease with symptoms were collected in women at least 12 weeks after COVID-19 recovery. The study participants were followed for 12 months. ECG monitoring, 24 h ECG monitoring, 24 h blood pressure monitoring, echocardiography, and biochemical tests were performed. Results: We studied 1946 consecutive female patients (age 53.0 [43.0-63.0] vs. 52.5 [41.0-63.0], p = 0.25). A more frequent occurrence of LC was observed in females with a severe SARS-CoV-2 infection (p = 0.0001). Women with LC compared to the control group had higher body mass index (p = 0.001), lower level of HDL cholesterol (p = 0.015), higher level of TG (p < 0.001) and higher TG/HDL ratio (p < 0.001), more often myocardial damage (p < 0.001), and lower LVEF (p = 0.01). LC women had more often QRS fragmentation, longer QTcB, and one of the ECG abnormalities. In a multivariate analysis in younger females with BMI > 24.8 kg/m[2], TG/HDL ratio > 1.89 and severe course of COVID-19 and in older females, TG/HDL ratio > 1.89, lower LVEF, and also severe course of infection were independent LC predictors. Conclusions: Independent predictors of LC occurrence in women, regardless of age, are severe course of COVID-19 and TG/HDL ratio > 1.89. The presence of comorbidities and lifestyle before COVID-19 had no impact on the occurrence of LC in females regardless of age.},
}

@article {pmid39767737,
year = {2024},
author = {Malioukis, A and Snead, RS and Marczika, J and Ambalavanan, R},
title = {Pathophysiological, Neuropsychological, and Psychosocial Influences on Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome: Impacts on Recovery and Symptom Persistence.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {12},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39767737},
issn = {2227-9059},
abstract = {Although the impact of post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS) on patients and public health is undeniably significant, its etiology remains largely unclear. Much research has been conducted on the pathophysiology, shedding light on various aspects; however, due to the multitude of symptoms and clinical conditions that directly or indirectly define PACS, it is challenging to establish definitive causations. In this exploration, through systematically reviewing the latest pathophysiological findings related to the neurological symptoms of the syndrome, we aim to examine how psychosocial and neuropsychological symptoms may overlap with neurological ones, and how they may not only serve as risk factors but also contribute to the persistence of some primary symptoms of the disorder. Findings from our synthesis suggest that psychological and psychosocial factors, such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness, may interact with neurological symptoms in a self-reinforcing feedback loop. This cycle seems to be affecting both physical and psychological distress, potentially increasing the persistence and severity of PACS symptoms. By pointing out this interaction, in this review study, we attempt to offer a new perspective on the interconnected nature of psychological, psychosocial, and neurological factors, emphasizing the importance of integrated treatment approaches to disrupt this cycle and improve outcomes when possible.},
}

@article {pmid39767601,
year = {2024},
author = {Baalbaki, N and Verbeek, ST and Bogaard, HJ and Blankestijn, JM and van den Brink, VC and Cornelissen, MEB and Twisk, JWR and Golebski, K and Maitland-van der Zee, AH and , },
title = {Pharmacotherapy from Pre-COVID to Post-COVID: Longitudinal Trends and Predictive Indicators for Long COVID Symptoms.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {12},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {39767601},
issn = {2227-9059},
support = {LSHM20104; LSHM20068//Health-Holland, Top Sector Life Sciences & Health/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: A significant number of COVID-19 cases experience persistent symptoms after the acute infection phase, a condition known as long COVID or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. Approved prevention and treatment options for long COVID are currently lacking. Given the heterogeneous nature of long COVID, a personalized medicine approach is essential for effective disease management. This study aimed to describe trends in pharmacotherapy from pre-COVID to post-COVID phases to gain insights into COVID-19 treatment strategies and assess whether pre-COVID pharmacotherapy can predict long COVID symptoms as a health status indicator.

METHODS: In the Precision Medicine for more Oxygen (P4O2) COVID-19 study, 95 long COVID patients were comprehensively evaluated through post-COVID outpatient clinics and study visits. This study focused on descriptive analysis of the pharmacotherapy patterns across different phases: pre-COVID-19, acute COVID, and post-COVID. Furthermore, associations between pre-COVID medication and long COVID outcomes were analyzed with regression analyses.

RESULTS: We observed peaks in the use of certain medications during the acute infection phase, including corticosteroids and antithrombotic agents, with a decrease in the use of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors. Consistently high use of alimentary tract medications was found across all phases. Pre-COVID respiratory medications were associated with fatigue symptoms, while antiinfectives and cardiovascular drugs were linked to fewer persisting long COVID symptom categories.

CONCLUSION: Our findings provide longitudinal, descriptive pharmacotherapy insights and suggest that medication history can be a valuable health status indicator in characterizing patients for personalized disease management strategies, considering the heterogeneous nature of long COVID.},
}