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Bibliography on: covid-19

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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 07 Dec 2025 at 01:42 Created: 

covid-19

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2), a virus closely related to the SARS virus. The disease was discovered and named during the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak. Those affected may develop a fever, dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A sore throat, runny nose or sneezing is less common. While the majority of cases result in mild symptoms, some can progress to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. The infection is spread from one person to others via respiratory droplets produced from the airways, often during coughing or sneezing. Time from exposure to onset of symptoms is generally between 2 and 14 days, with an average of 5 days. The standard method of diagnosis is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) from a nasopharyngeal swab or sputum sample, with results within a few hours to 2 days. Antibody assays can also be used, using a blood serum sample, with results within a few days. The infection can also be diagnosed from a combination of symptoms, risk factors and a chest CT scan showing features of pneumonia. Correct handwashing technique, maintaining distance from people who are coughing and not touching one's face with unwashed hands are measures recommended to prevent the disease. It is also recommended to cover one's nose and mouth with a tissue or a bent elbow when coughing. Those who suspect they carry the virus are recommended to wear a surgical face mask and seek medical advice by calling a doctor rather than visiting a clinic in person. Masks are also recommended for those who are taking care of someone with a suspected infection but not for the general public. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, with management involving treatment of symptoms, supportive care and experimental measures. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 3%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As of 29 February 2020, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the United States are areas having evidence of community transmission of the disease.

NOTE: To obtain the entire bibliography (all 58278 citations) in bibtek format (a format that can be easily loaded into many different reference-manager software programs, click HERE.

Created with PubMed® Query: ( SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR (wuhan AND coronavirus) AND review[SB] )NOT 40982904[pmid] NOT 40982965[pmid] NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

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RevDate: 2025-12-06
CmpDate: 2025-12-05

Zou Y, Kamoi K, Zong Y, et al (2025)

Systematic Review of Postvaccination Ocular Adverse Events: A Comprehensive Analysis of Published Reports.

Journal of medical virology, 97(12):e70747.

Ocular adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination are well described; however, systematic analyses of non-COVID antiviral vaccines remain limited. This review aimed to evaluate ocular complications associated with non-COVID antiviral immunizations, including influenza, varicella-zoster (VZV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and hepatitis B (HBV) vaccines. A systematic search (PROSPERO CRD4202450873) identified 122 patients (184 eyes) from 8,487 publications, including case reports, case series, and observational studies. Uveitis was the most common (92/184 eyes; 50.0%, 95% CI 42.8%-57.2%), frequently following influenza vaccination (35/122; 28.7%, 95% CI 20.7%-36.7%). Most patients (95/122; 77.9%, 95% CI 70.5%-85.3%) required systemic corticosteroids, reflecting predominant inflammation. Ocular symptoms occurred within 30 days in 84.4% (103/122)of cases, with peak onset at 7-30 days (62/122; 50.8%, 95% CI 42.0%-59.6%). Despite appropriate treatment, 18 patients (20.0%, 95% CI 13.0%-29.4%) experienced persistent inflammation or required therapy beyond 1 month, categorized as "long-vax", defined as ocular symptoms persisting for ≥ 4 weeks after vaccination. Although rare, antiviral vaccine-associated ocular complications may persist, posing a risk of long-term visual morbidity and emphasizing the importance of clinician awareness, postvaccination surveillance, and counseling for patients receiving repeated or combined vaccine exposures.

RevDate: 2025-12-06
CmpDate: 2025-12-05

McVoy MA, AB Kummarapurugu (2025)

The Role of ACE2 in SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Pathogenesis, and Antiviral Interventions.

Journal of medical virology, 97(12):e70721.

The devastating clinical, psychological, and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by global spread of the second Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), has engendered a massive response from the scientific community to rapidly understand the biology of SARS-CoV-2 and to develop interventions to prevent infection or progression to life-threatening disease. Angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) and its interaction with the SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein, which mediates fusion of the virion envelope with the target cell membrane, have emerged as a major pharmacological target, as disruption of the Spike-ACE2 interaction prevents cells from becoming infected and hence from producing viral progeny. Moreover, the dysregulation of ACE2 that occurs in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection may have broader implications for COVID-19 pathogenesis. Here we summarize the role of ACE2 as a physiologic regulator of human health, as a facilitator of SARS-CoV-2 infection, as a factor in COVID-19 disease, and as a target for pharmacological interventions.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-05

Guimarães GN, Brunetti NS, De Lima DG, et al (2025)

Vaccination and COVID-19: impact on long-COVID.

Frontiers in immunology, 16:1686572.

Long- and post-COVID-19 syndromes have emerged as a significant global health challenge, with millions of individuals experiencing persistent or the development of new symptoms after a long period of an initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. These symptoms are multisystemic and may indicate changes in the respiratory, neurological, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems, in addition to prolonged fatigue. Vaccination has played a crucial role in reducing severe disease and mortality, but the impact of the different vaccine combinations on the development and resolution of Long COVID remains a topic of debate. This review synthesizes current evidence on how different vaccine platforms, dosing strategies and booster doses influence the immunological response, protection, incidence, severity, and persistence of Long COVID symptoms. We discuss key immunological mechanisms by which vaccination may modulate and protect post-COVID syndrome outcomes, including its effects on viral clearance, immune response reprogramming, inflammation, and autoimmunity, seeking to combat misinformation and concepts spread by fake news. The review also highlights controversies and research gaps, such as variability in vaccine response among different populations and the role in the selection of more transmissible and virulent SARS-CoV-2 variants, as well as the potential differences between vaccine-induced and infection-induced immunity, and the role of pre-existing immune conditions in this scenario.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-05

Hamdy R, Barakat AZ, Abuzaid EJ, et al (2026)

COVID-19 in Diabetic Patients: Mechanisms, Risks, and Therapeutic Considerations.

Reviews in medical virology, 36(1):e70085.

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had a profound global impact. Diabetes mellitus is a major comorbidity associated with higher infection risk, severe disease, and mortality in COVID-19 patients. This review examines the bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and diabetes, focussing on immunometabolic mechanisms, post-COVID metabolic effects, and therapeutic implications. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles published until May 2025 using the terms "COVID-19," "SARS-CoV-2," "diabetes," and "immunometabolism." Peer-reviewed studies addressing clinical, molecular, or therapeutic interactions between the two diseases were included. Evidence shows that SARS-CoV-2 infection aggravates metabolic dysfunction through immune dysregulation, cytokine-mediated inflammation, and β-cell injury. Hyperglycemia promotes viral replication and inflammatory damage, creating a vicious cycle that worsens outcomes. Reports also indicate an increased risk of new-onset and post-COVID diabetes. Certain antidiabetic agents, such as metformin and GLP-1 receptor agonists, may improve prognosis via anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects. Diabetes significantly amplifies the severity of COVID-19 through intertwined metabolic and immune mechanisms. Understanding these interactions provides new insights into disease management and supports the development of targeted immunometabolic therapies for improving outcomes in diabetic patients affected by COVID-19.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2025-12-04

Arieli M, Ngo V, Jeyakumar S, et al (2026)

The Role of Information and Communication Technologies in Social Participation of Older Adults: A Scoping Review.

The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association, 80(1):.

IMPORTANCE: Social participation is essential for healthy aging, supporting older adults' health and well-being. Although information and communication technologies (ICTs) offer promising opportunities, a focused summary of the literature on ICT use for social participation, a distinct aspect of digital engagement, has been lacking.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize existing literature on ICT use for social participation among older adults and identify gaps by examining study characteristics, ICT classifications, and associated health variables.

DATA SOURCES: PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL were searched for quantitative, nonexperimental studies published from 2016 through 2024.

The authors followed the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology.

FINDINGS: Of 9,795 screened articles, 85 met the inclusion criteria. The number of relevant publications has increased over time, with nearly half (47.1%) related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Modes of interaction included social media (72.4%), email (64.5%), text messaging (60.5%), and video calls (53.9%). Most studies assessed communication frequency with family and friends (72.9%), whereas fewer explored meeting new people online (7.1%) or the quality of online participation (5.9%). Social well-being (56.5%) and mental health (43.4%) were the most frequently examined health variables.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The growing body of research highlights ICTs' role in social participation in later life but reveals key gaps. Research on underrepresented populations, ICTs' potential for expanding social networks, and the quality of online participation remains limited. Inconsistent measurement practices hinder ability to draw conclusions. These gaps point to critical opportunities for future occupational therapy research and practice. Plain-Language Summary: Staying socially connected is important for older adults' health, well-being, and overall quality of life. This review explored how older adults use digital technologies, such as video calls, email, text messaging, and social media, to stay in touch and participate socially. Interest in these technologies has grown in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most research focused on communication with family and friends; fewer studies examined forming new relationships online or the quality of online interactions. Digital tools can reduce loneliness and support participation, particularly when in-person contact is limited. However, more research is needed to understand usage patterns and the adoption of these tools in daily life, especially among underrepresented groups. This knowledge can help occupational therapy practitioners better support older adults in using technology to promote meaningful social connections.

RevDate: 2025-12-06
CmpDate: 2025-12-06

Nagai K, Mitani T, Kawahara Y, et al (2025)

A pediatric case of anti-PF4 antibody-induced cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and thrombocytopenia following adenovirus infection: a literature review.

Brain & development, 47(6):104483.

INTRODUCTION: Vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT) is a rare disorder caused by antibodies against platelet factor 4 (PF4) triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines using non-replicable adenoviral vectors. It emerged during the pandemic, with patients typically presenting with thrombosis at uncommon sites, thrombocytopenia, and elevated D-dimer levels. VITT antibodies and heparin-dependent antibodies bind to distinct PF4 epitopes. Recently, VITT-like clinical, laboratory, and anti-PF4 antibody features have also been observed in patients with adenoviral infections. Only four pediatric cases of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) have been reported.

CASE REPORT: The patient was a previously healthy 2-year-old girl with no history of heparin exposure or SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. She presented with fever and was diagnosed with adenovirus infection. The fever resolved by day 4, but by day 6 she became increasingly lethargic and experienced vomiting. On day 12, Laboratory data showed severe thrombocytopenia and elevated D-dimer levels. Computed tomography revealed CVST along with a secondary hemorrhage in the right temporal lobe. She underwent hematoma removal with external/internal decompression and was started on continuous intravenous unfractionated heparin, and she was switched to warfarin. The thrombus decreased, platelet count spontaneously increased. Platelet activation assays using acute-phase serum identified a PF4-dependent platelet-activating antibody.

CONCLUSION: We report a case of CVST in a 2-year-old girl following adenovirus infection. Unlike heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, where heparin exacerbates the condition, it is effective here by competitively inhibiting anti-PF4 antibody binding. In patients with prior adenovirus infection presenting with CVST and thrombocytopenia, anti-PF4 disorders should be considered.

RevDate: 2025-12-06
CmpDate: 2025-12-06

Huang S, Shi W, Chen L, et al (2026)

Sarocladium strictum meningoencephalitis with cerebral vasculitis: a case report and literature review.

Diagnostic microbiology and infectious disease, 114(2):117171.

Sarocladium strictum (S. strictum) meningitis is a rare but rapidly progressive and often fatal central nervous system (CNS) infection, typically presenting with nonspecific symptoms such as headache, fever, and limb weakness, making early diagnosis difficult. We report a 42-year-old woman with a history of sarcoidosis and prior immunosuppressive therapy who developed fever and headache during travel in Inner Mongolia, China. Initially misdiagnosed as an upper respiratory tract infection, her condition worsened within one week. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed elevated intracranial pressure, protein, and cell counts. Next-generation sequencing and lymph node biopsy confirmed S. strictum meningitis. With the increasing use of immunosuppressants in the post-COVID-19 era, the incidence of rare fungal CNS infections may rise. Amphotericin B combined with voriconazole appears to be an effective treatment. In cases with cerebral vasculitis, adjunctive anti-vasculitis therapy may be helpful. However, the exact mechanisms remain unclear.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2025-12-04

Breckling MN, Tobey-Moore L, Parsons A, et al (2025)

Telemedicine Use Among Older Adults During COVID-19: A Narrative Literature Review of Utilization Patterns.

Telemedicine reports, 6(1):371-381.

BACKGROUND: With the rapid expansion of telemedicine services during the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns have emerged about equitable access for vulnerable populations, including older adults. This narrative literature review aims to examine patterns of telemedicine use among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States (U.S.).

METHODS: A comprehensive review of 55 articles published between 2020 and 2024 was conducted to analyze disparities in older adult telemedicine use around the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from electronic health records and medical claims data were compiled for analysis. Variations based on visit modalities, geographic regions and divisions, age categorization, and medical specialties were explored.

RESULTS: Most studies found lower use among older adults, with 23 reporting significantly reduced usage compared with younger groups. Only 11 showed higher use, while 12 found no difference or had inconclusive results, and 11 did not include an in-person comparison group. A total of 26 studies used a single cross-sectional design, and 29 used multiple cross-sectional designs. Research was primarily conducted in the Northeast and West, U.S., with most studies analyzing telephone, video, and in-person visits (n = 35) and electronic health record data (n = 48).

CONCLUSIONS: This review reveals persistent disparities in telemedicine use among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for research into contributing factors and targeted strategies to improve access. Policymakers should consider initiatives such as financial support, broadband expansion, and digital literacy programs to promote equity.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2025-12-04

Abdollahzadeh Mirali R, Ramazannia Toloti SS, Bigdeli Y, et al (2025)

Surgical and Endovascular Management of Aortic Thrombosis in COVID-19 and Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia.

Vascular health and risk management, 21:1007-1016.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has been associated with a hypercoagulable state, leading to various thrombotic complications, including aortic thrombosis, a rare but severe manifestation requiring surgical intervention. Additionally, vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), linked to adenoviral vector vaccines, presents unique surgical challenges due to a heightened risk of thrombosis and bleeding. This review focuses on the surgical management of COVID-19-associated aortic thrombosis and VITT-related large-vessel occlusions.

RESULTS: Surgical intervention in COVID-19-associated aortic thrombosis depends on thrombus burden, patient stability, and associated comorbidities. Open thrombectomy, aortic bypass, and hybrid endovascular techniques have been employed, with perioperative anticoagulation being critical to prevent recurrence. High thrombus burden cases often require open repair, while endovascular approaches are preferred in high-risk patients. Mortality rates remain elevated (up to 30%), with post-surgical complications including recurrent thrombosis and limb loss. In VITT cases, surgical revascularization is complicated by thrombocytopenia and a prothrombotic state, necessitating non-heparin anticoagulation and close hematologic monitoring. Delayed diagnosis and inappropriate anticoagulation significantly worsen outcomes.

CONCLUSION: The surgical management of aortic thrombosis in COVID-19 and VITT patients requires a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating vascular surgery, hematology, and intensive care. Early intervention with individualized surgical and anticoagulation strategies is crucial in optimizing outcomes. Further research is needed to refine surgical decision-making, improve postoperative anticoagulation protocols, and enhance patient survival in these complex thrombotic conditions.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2025-12-04

Araújo TP, Luz GVDS, Gomes MMF, et al (2025)

Changes on computed tomography in post-acute COVID-19 syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Radiologia brasileira, 58:e20250012.

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies was to estimate the prevalence of residual alterations in the lung parenchyma on computed tomography (CT) after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), correlating those alterations with the severity of the acute phase of the disease. We reviewed data related to adult patients evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months after the diagnosis of moderate-to-critical COVID-19. We performed structured searches of 14 databases, encompassing works published between January 2020 and January 2024. Thus, 44 primary studies were selected. Data on mild cases of COVID-19 were excluded, as were those related to assessment of the acute phase of the disease. The results were analyzed descriptively, and meta-analyses were conducted to estimate prevalence. The estimated prevalence of altered CT scans at post-diagnosis months 3, 6, and 12 was 69.0% (95% CI: 60.0-77.6%; I [2] = 86%; p < 0.001), 62.0% (95% CI: 52.0-71.5%; I [2] = 77%; p < 0.001), and 54.0% (95% CI: 40.0-67.5%; I [2] = 88%; p < 0.001), respectively. There was no correlation between severity of the acute phase and the persistence of alterations on CT in general. Among the CT scans acquired at post-diagnosis month 3, alterations indicative of fibrosis were observed in 22% (95% CI: 13-30%; I [2] = 85%; p < 0.001), and no reduction in that prevalence was observed at the subsequent time points (rho-s = 0.952; p < 0.000). The severity of the acute phase showed a positive correlation with the presence of lesions indicative of pulmonary fibrosis on CT scans acquired at 3 months after the diagnosis of COVID-19.

RevDate: 2025-12-03

Lei Y, Xu J, Y Ma (2025)

The association between psychological distress and internet addiction: A systematic review and three-level meta-analysis.

Clinical psychology review, 123:102684 pii:S0272-7358(25)00151-5 [Epub ahead of print].

Internet addiction has emerged as a global public health concern, with psychological distress recognized as a key contributing factor. Numerous studies have investigated the association between psychological distress and Internet addiction; however, their findings have remained inconsistent, and the moderating factors influencing this relationship have not been comprehensively examined. To address these gaps, the present study conducted a three-level meta-analysis to systematically assess the association between psychological distress and Internet addiction, as well as to explore potential moderators. In total, 135 studies involving 263,780 participants and 632 effect sizes were identified by a systematic literature search. The results revealed a significant positive correlation between psychological distress and Internet addiction. Furthermore, several variables significantly moderated this relationship, including study design, publication year, COVID-19 pandemic context, gender, age group, educational stage, country, living arrangement, measurement of Internet addiction, dimensions of Internet addiction, and types of Internet addiction. These findings provide more comprehensive insights to understand the complex link between psychological distress and Internet addiction and offer theoretical guidance for the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Filippo LD, Terenzi U, A Giustina (2025)

Vitamin D in the elderly: the phil-rouge in preventing bone, muscle and adipose deterioration?.

Archives of endocrinology and metabolism, 70(Spe1):e250281.

The pleiotropic role of vitamin D in human health has been implicated in modulating bone metabolism and other several extraskeletal areas, including muscle and adipose tissues regulation, and in influencing general and systemic outcomes. In the elderly, vitamin D deficiency is considered as an emerging public health issue affecting 40%-70% of older adults worldwide with higher rates occurring in institutionalized individuals or patients with multiple chronic comorbidities. The pathophysiology of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly is multifactorial and includes age-related reduced skin synthesis, limited sun exposure, declined renal and liver function, and long-term use of interfering medications. Given its pleiotropic effects, vitamin D deficiency in the elderly has been consistently associated with progressive bone deterioration and muscle and adipose dysfunctions, concurring to the occurrence of the osteosarcopenic obese phenotype. This multifaced deleterious scenario is strongly correlated with an increasing risk of fragility fractures, falls, functional and metabolic decline, all of which contribute to higher morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and screening with individualized criteria, targeted and personalized strategies for supplementation, and structured follow-up monitoring are required to reduce the clinically significant impact of vitamin D deficiency in this highly vulnerable population.

RevDate: 2025-12-03

McNulty MA, ER Agosto (2025)

Infection Risk From Humans and Animals in the Anatomy Laboratory: A Scoping Review.

Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) [Epub ahead of print].

Whole-body dissection is a cornerstone of anatomy education. During and following the COVID-19 pandemic, exposure to infectious agents and other risks of dissection were highlighted. To identify potential risks, one must have the data outlining these risks in specific situations. However, information regarding the risks of encountering an infectious pathogen in donors is not readily available for educators and anatomical programs and there are presently no universal guidelines for lowering the risk of exposure to such pathogens. Therefore, this scoping review aims to provide information regarding infectious pathogens that one may encounter in the anatomy lab when engaging in dissection of both humans and animals, including zoonoses (e.g., rabies), blood-borne pathogens (e.g., HIV, HPV), and pathogens that pose a relatively less serious risk to the health of dissectors (e.g., fungal infections). A systematic and comprehensive search across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and ERIC databases without date restrictions was performed. When data were available, the prevalence of these pathogens within the worldwide population, viability in cadavers and the surrounding laboratory environment, and effects of formaldehyde fixation on pathogen infectivity are provided. This review also provides examples of mitigation methods and their effectiveness in reducing the risk of exposure to pathogens in the anatomy laboratory as published in the literature. A summary of potential toxicological hazards encountered in the lab is also included. Overall, this scoping review charts existing literature to provide information that anatomy programs worldwide can utilize to identify potential risks and identify mitigation methods to reduce such risks while dissecting.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Kim HK, Ryu B, Yoo MG, et al (2025)

[Analysis of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Prediction Studies in the Republic of Korea].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 18(34):1261-1276.

OBJECTIVES: During the initial outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), numerous predictive studies were conducted amid high uncertainty regarding the characteristics of the virus, and the study results were considered in the policymaking process.

METHODS: This study systematically analyzed research papers that predicted the spread of COVID-19 in the Republic of Korea. Focusing on 138 studies published between 2020 and October 15, 2024, it examined the data and methodologies employed and explored ways to enhance the utility of predictive outcomes in managing infectious disease outbreaks.

RESULTS: These methodologies included mathematical models, statistical models, and machine learning-based approaches to predict COVID-19 spread patterns. Beyond forecasting future outbreak trends, these predictive models were also instrumental in evaluating existing measures and proposing effective policies through scenario-based assumptions.

CONCLUSIONS: This study's findings highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in developing predictive models to effectively prepare for and respond to infectious diseases. By doing so, it aims to minimize the public health impacts of infectious diseases.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Pan Q, Sun Y, Bai H, et al (2025)

Design of Mucosal Vaccines Against Swine Enteric Coronaviruses: From Antigen Delivery to Immune Activation.

Transboundary and emerging diseases, 2025:3230453.

Swine enteric coronaviruses (SeCoVs) cause acute enteritis and high mortality in neonatal piglets, posing a significant threat to the swine industry. Injectable vaccines often fail to induce effective mucosal immunity, and their efficacy is further compromised by maternally derived antibodies. Oral and intranasal mucosal vaccines offer promising alternatives, enabling localized and durable protection. This review summarizes recent advances in mucosal vaccines against SeCoVs, focusing on antigen delivery platforms and mucosal immune activation. Novel antigen delivery platforms, including nanoparticles (NPs), hydrogels, engineered probiotics, recombinant viral vectors, and eukaryotic expression systems, have improved antigen stability and facilitated transport across the epithelium to mucosal inductive sites. Moreover, targeting strategies that focus on microfold cells (M cells) and dendritic cells (DCs) enhance antigen uptake and presentation. These delivery systems promote mucosal immune activation by inducing secretory IgA (sIgA), maintaining Th1/Th2 balance, and promoting the generation of T and B cells. In addition, the incorporation of adjuvants further strengthens these responses, resulting in more robust and durable protection. By synergistically integrating advanced mucosal vaccine delivery systems with rational adjuvant strategies, this review provides theoretical and practical perspectives for the development of safe, effective, and broadly protective mucosal vaccines targeting SeCoVs infections.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Cheng EY, A Mirzaei (2026)

Is COVID-19 infection an independent etiologic factor in osteonecrosis development beyond corticosteroid exposure?.

Journal of orthopaedics, 72:27-32.

INTRODUCTION: An increased incidence of non-traumatic osteonecrosis has been reported during the COVID-19 pandemic. Corticosteroid therapy, particularly dexamethasone, has often been implicated as a major risk factor. However, emerging evidence suggests that the pathogenesis of osteonecrosis in COVID-19 patients may extend beyond corticosteroid exposure.

HYPOTHESIS: COVID-19 infection itself may serve as an independent etiologic factor in osteonecrosis, with virus-induced pathogenic mechanisms synergizing with corticosteroid exposure to heighten risk, even at lower doses and shorter treatment durations.

METHODS: This review synthesizes available literature on COVID-19, corticosteroid therapy, and osteonecrosis pathogenesis. Evidence from clinical observations, mechanistic studies, and prior models of corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis were examined to identify overlapping and distinct pathways contributing to disease development.

RESULTS: Findings indicate that COVID-19 and corticosteroids converge on common pathogenic pathways-lipid dysregulation, impaired bone homeostasis, endothelial dysfunction, and coagulopathy. COVID-19 additionally promotes osteonecrosis through cytokine storm-driven inflammation. The combined effects of viral infection and corticosteroid therapy amplify disease risk, explaining reported cases of osteonecrosis even under reduced corticosteroid exposure.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 may represent an independent etiologic factor for osteonecrosis, with intrinsic viral effects potentiating the impact of corticosteroids. Recognition of this dual risk underscores the need for preventive and therapeutic strategies tailored to COVID-19-associated osteonecrosis.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-05

Jha T, Ahuja A, D Deepak (2025)

Pulmonary histoplasmosis with histoplasmosis tracheitis in a patient with systemic sclerosis: A case report and review of literature.

Indian journal of pathology & microbiology, 68(4):846-849.

Histoplasmosis usually presents as a pulmonary disease. However, histoplasmosis tracheitis is an extremely rare presentation that is often misdiagnosed. We present a case of a 41-year-old female, a known case of systemic sclerosis and chronic kidney disease, on steroids and receiving hemodialysis, who presented with persistent fever, dry cough, and vomiting following recovery from COVID-19 infection. Radiography revealed the presence of cavitating lung lesions, and an initial clinical differential diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis or tuberculosis was made. Bronchoscopic evaluation, however, revealed the presence of a nodule over the tracheal cartilage, which, on histopathology, revealed sheets of histoplasma-laden histiocytes, allowing a diagnosis of histoplasmosis tracheitis. Histoplasmosis tracheitis is a rare and frequently misdiagnosed condition that can delay treatment and worsen outcomes, underscoring the need for awareness and high clinical suspicion for timely, appropriate intervention.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2025-12-04

Kokorelias KM, McMurray J, Chu C, et al (2024)

Technology-Enabled Recreation and Leisure Programs and Activities for Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment: Rapid Scoping Review.

JMIR neurotechnology, 3:e53038.

BACKGROUND: Recreational and leisure activities significantly contribute to the well-being of older adults, positively impacting physical, cognitive, and mental health. However, limited mobility and cognitive decline often impede access to these activities, particularly for individuals living with dementia. With the increasing availability of digital technologies, there is a rising interest in using technology to deliver recreation and leisure activities for cognitively impaired individuals, acknowledging its potential to provide diverse experiences. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the need for virtual program delivery, especially for individuals in long-term care settings, leading to the development of tools like the Dementia Isolation Toolkit aimed at supporting compassionate isolation. To better support future implementations of the DIT, our rapid scoping review explores evidence-based, technology-enabled recreation programs for older adults with cognitive impairments, which promote well-being.

OBJECTIVE: We conducted a rapid scoping review of published peer-reviewed literature to answer the following research question: What recreation and leisure programs or activities are being delivered using technology to adults living with dementia or another form of cognitive impairment?

METHODS: In total, 6 databases were searched by an Information Specialist. Single reviewers performed title or abstract review, full-text screening, data extraction, and study characteristic summarization.

RESULTS: A total of 92 documents representing 94 studies were identified. The review identified a variety of technology-enabled delivery methods, including robots, gaming consoles, tablets, televisions, and computers, used to engage participants in recreational and leisure activities. These technologies impacted mood, cognition, functional activity, and overall well-being among older adults with cognitive impairments. Activities for socializing were the most common, leveraging technologies such as social robots and virtual companions, while relaxation methods used virtual reality and digital reminiscence therapy. However, challenges included technological complexity and potential distress during reminiscing activities, prompting recommendations for diversified research settings, and increased sample sizes to comprehensively understand technology's impact on leisure among this demographic.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that technology-enabled recreational activities, such as socializing, relaxation and self-awareness activities, music and dance, exergaming, and art, can positively impact the mood and overall well-being of older adults with cognitive impairment. Future research should embrace a more inclusive approach, integrating design, diverse settings, and a broader sample of older adults to develop technology-driven leisure activities tailored to their unique needs and promote their effective use.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Kim SY, Bang H, Kim H, et al (2024)

[Distribution Status of National Culture Collection for Pathogens Pathogen Resources following Coronavirus Disease 2019 Occurrence from 2020 to 2023].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 17(27):1186-1212.

Since the enforcement of the "Act on the Collection, Management, and Promotion of Utilization of Biological Resources" in 2017 and the establishment of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) in September 2020, the KDCA has assumed supervisory authority over this law. The National Culture Collection for Pathogens (NCCP) serves as the depository responsible for pathogen resources. It secures and manages valuable pathogen resources on an annual basis, and distributes them for various purposes in the healthcare research and industry field. From 2020 to 2023, the NCCP has distributed a total of 15,312 samples: 3,047 in 2020; 3,988 in 2021; 4,925 in 2022; and 3,352 in 2023. Distribution was notably higher in March and April compared to other months. Private for-profit organizations requested significantly more responses (9,011) than national public research institutes (2,676) or university/nonprofit organizations (3,625). Samples for vaccine/therapeutics (2,509) and diagnostic technology research (10,591) were more prevalent than those for education (1,074) and quality control (674). The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, which began in 2020 and has persisted for an extended period, led to a sustained increase in the distribution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (31.3%) to support various healthcare industries and research fields until the end of 2023. Among the distributed derivatives, nucleic acid forms used for diagnostic purposes accounted for 57.5%. This study provides information on the distribution status of pathogen resources from 2020 to 2023. It demonstrates that domestic resources are widely utilized in the public health field as source materials to respond to emerging infectious diseases and as standard strains for food and pharmaceuticals.

RevDate: 2025-12-05
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Lee N, Kim YG, Jung S, et al (2023)

[Comparing International Computing Systems of COVID-19 Core Indicators and Measures to Improve Usability].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 16(29):973-991.

For effective pandemic control of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), production and management of relevant indicators to predict and analyze epidemic patterns, development and evaluation of dashboards that visually represent data have not yet been achieved. In this study, we utilized medical quality assessment methods to review key COVID-19 prevention indicators and evaluated both domestic and international dashboards in terms of usability. Most countries provide major prevention indicators focusing on COVID-19 incidence and hospital bed-related indicators. In Republic of Korea (ROK), a significant number of management indicators are also provided, but there is a shortage of publicly available indicators for specific targets and time periods. Therefore, it is necessary to develop indicators that encompass various infection and socio-economic vulnerability factors and to develop estimation models that can reflect the characteristics of infection in ROK through policy development and the utilization of these indicators. Interactive dashboards are the most useful in the COVID-19 pandemic situation. The interactive dashboards enable data management and processing, provide information to users at their view point, and implement appropriate visual elements. In addition, dashboard improvements that consider the use of clear indicators, easy accessibility, and information placement readability are needed.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2025-12-04

Starcevic V, A Janca (2026)

Conspiracy theories, personality dimensions and personality disorders.

Current opinion in psychiatry, 39(1):42-46.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Conspiracy theories are not a recent phenomenon, but their dissemination has been facilitated by the internet and modern means of communication such as social media. This article reviews personality-based factors that increase the likelihood of endorsing conspiracy theories.

RECENT FINDINGS: Most studies used a correlational approach and examined personality traits and dimensions rather than personality disorders. The strongest and most consistent relationships were found between endorsement of conspiracy theories and suspiciousness and paranoid ideation, pseudoscientific tendencies and beliefs, schizotypal personality traits and narcissism. Similar personality characteristics were identified as correlates of the endorsement of the specific COVID-19 conspiracy theories, but antisocial personality traits have also been reported in this context. Epistemic mistrust has emerged as arguably the key factor that facilitates endorsement of conspiracy theories. Schizotypal, paranoid, antisocial, borderline, and narcissistic personality disorders were more likely to accompany endorsement of conspiracy theories than other types of personality disorders.

SUMMARY: Although correlation does not imply causation, recent work has identified personality-related characteristics that confer an increased risk of espousing conspiracy theories. Further research is necessary to ascertain how this vulnerability could be decreased, thus minimizing the harms of conspiracy theories that are inflicted on their adherents and broader society.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Aum J, Cho S, Ha JH, et al (2024)

[Preparedness and Responding for Infectious Disease for Mass Gathering of 「Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024」].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 17(18):739-771.

The importance of a public health strategy for mass gatherings has been consistently emphasized internationally in the past. In the Republic of Korea, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has established guidelines and standard operation procedures (SOPs) for preparations to address and respond to infectious disease outbreaks due to mass gathering events. The most recent example of the KDCA's response in line with these guidelines and SOPs was that for the 「Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024」 (Gangwon 2024), for which a proactive response and cooperation system, quarantine measures, and an infectious disease surveillance system were implemented. During Gangwon 2024, 14 cases of infectious diseases were confirmed: 3 cases of norovirus infection (1 outbreak case), 1 case of chickenpox, 4 cases of coronavirus disease 2019, and 6 cases of influenza. There were no severe infectious disease outbreaks. We expect to provide a reference for responding to infectious disease outbreaks due to future mass gathering events by evaluating the experience of infectious disease prevention activities at Gangwon 2024.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Lee J, Seo H, Oh S, et al (2024)

[The Comparison of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Adverse Events between Korea and the UK and Implications for Vaccine Adverse Event Management System].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 17(14):587-613.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination programs in the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United Kingdom (UK) have been successfully implemented by providing the most available vaccines in a timely manner. Both countries have collected post-vaccination adverse event (AE) data to continuously monitor evolving vaccine safety, and the cumulative number of individual case safety reports (ICSRs) obtained in the two countries has exceeded 0.48 million in total, respectively. The numbers of AEs per ICSR and AE types as well as the probability of having a serious AE per ICSR were lower in the ROK than in the UK. These findings could imply that the ROK might have adopted different standards and processes from those in the UK. For example, there were marked inter-country differences in acceptable reporter types, seriousness criteria, causality assessment criteria, and AE coding system, which could have resulted from the low level of acceptance of internationally recognized pharmacovigilance principles in the ROK. The International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines are widely adopted by national regulatory authorities in many countries including the United States, European Union countries, and the UK, with research institutions and pharmaceutical companies being no exception. The ROK needs to improve the Adverse Event Following Immunization management system to practice more effective and sustainable vaccine safety monitoring by adopting ICH guidelines.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-11-15

Hadda V, Suri TM, Iyer H, et al (2022)

A Delphi consensus statement for the management of post-COVID interstitial lung disease.

Expert review of respiratory medicine, 16(9):983-995.

INTRODUCTION: As millions of people worldwide recover from COVID-19, a substantial proportion continue to have persistent symptoms, pulmonary function abnormalities, and radiological findings suggestive of post-COVID interstitial lung disease (ILD). To date, there is limited scientific evidence on the management of post-COVID ILD, necessitating a consensus-based approach.

AREAS COVERED: A panel of experts in pulmonology and thoracic radiology was constituted. Key questions regarding the management of post-COVID ILD were identified. A search was performed on PubMed and EMBASE and updated till 1 March 2022. The relevant literature regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of post-COVID ILD was summarized. Subsequently, suggestions regarding the management of these patients were framed, and a consensus was obtained using the Delphi approach. Those suggestions which were approved by over 80% of the panelists were accepted. The final document was approved by all panel members.

EXPERT OPINION: Dedicated facilities should be established for the care of patients with post-COVID ILD. Symptom screening, pulmonary function testing, and thoracic imaging have a role in the diagnosis. The pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options for the management of post-COVID ILD are discussed. Further research into the pathophysiology and management of post-COVID ILD will improve our understanding of this condition.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-11-18

D'Ascenzi F, Castelletti S, Adami PE, et al (2022)

Cardiac screening prior to return to play after SARS-CoV-2 infection: focus on the child and adolescent athlete: A Clinical Consensus Statement of the Task Force for Childhood Health of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology.

European journal of preventive cardiology, 29(16):2120-2124.

Cardiac sequelae after COVID-19 have been described in athletes, prompting the need to establish a return-to-play (RTP) protocol to guarantee a safe return to sports practice. Sports participation is strongly associated with multiple short- and long-term health benefits in children and adolescents and plays a crucial role in counteracting the psychological and physical effects of the current pandemic. Therefore, RTP protocols should be balanced to promote safe sports practice, particularly after an asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection that represents the common manifestation in children. The present consensus document aims to summarize the current evidence on the cardiac sequelae of COVID-19 in children and young athletes, providing key messages for conducting the RTP protocol in paediatric athletes to promote a safe sports practice during the COVID-19 era.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-09-13

Fuller R, Goddard VCT, Nadarajah VD, et al (2022)

Technology enhanced assessment: Ottawa consensus statement and recommendations.

Medical teacher, 44(8):836-850.

INTRODUCTION: In 2011, a consensus report was produced on technology-enhanced assessment (TEA), its good practices, and future perspectives. Since then, technological advances have enabled innovative practices and tools that have revolutionised how learners are assessed. In this updated consensus, we bring together the potential of technology and the ultimate goals of assessment on learner attainment, faculty development, and improved healthcare practices.

METHODS: As a material for the report, we used the scholarly publications on TEA in both HPE and general higher education, feedback from 2020 Ottawa Conference workshops, and scholarly publications on assessment technology practices during the Covid-19 pandemic.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The group identified areas of consensus that remained to be resolved and issues that arose in the evolution of TEA. We adopted a three-stage approach (readiness to adopt technology, application of assessment technology, and evaluation/dissemination). The application stage adopted an assessment 'lifecycle' approach and targeted five key foci: (1) Advancing authenticity of assessment, (2) Engaging learners with assessment, (3) Enhancing design and scheduling, (4) Optimising assessment delivery and recording learner achievement, and (5) Tracking learner progress and faculty activity and thereby supporting longitudinal learning and continuous assessment.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-03-15

Public Health Ophthalmology Branch of Chinese Preventive Medicine Association (2022)

[Chinese expert consensus on prevention and control of COVID-19 eye disease (2022)].

[Zhonghua yan ke za zhi] Chinese journal of ophthalmology, 58(3):176-181.

Accumulated evidence has shown that novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could contribute to eye disease during its pandemic, which is called COVID-19 eye disease. Currently, there is a lack of uniform and standardized guidelines for the protection of medical staff in the diagnosis and treatment process. Most ophthalmologists treat this disease according to their clinical experience. Therefore, the experts of the Public Health Ophthalmology Branch of Chinese Preventive Medicine Association have developed this consensus statement after thorough discussions, hoping to provide guiding opinions on the further prevention and control of COVID-19 eye disease in China.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-10-20

Rienks R, Holdsworth D, Davos CH, et al (2022)

Cardiopulmonary assessment prior to returning to high-hazard occupations post-symptomatic COVID-19 infection: a position statement of the Aviation and Occupational Cardiology Task Force of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology.

European journal of preventive cardiology, 29(13):1724-1730.

This article provides an overview of the recommendations of the Aviation and Occupational Cardiology Task Force of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology on returning individuals to work in high-hazard occupations (such as flying, diving, and workplaces that are remote from healthcare facilities) following symptomatic Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. This process requires exclusion of significant underlying cardiopulmonary disease and this consensus statement (from experts across the field) outlines the appropriate screening and investigative processes that should be undertaken. The recommended response is based on simple screening in primary healthcare to determine those at risk, followed by first line investigations, including an exercise capacity assessment, to identify the small proportion of individuals who may have circulatory, pulmonary, or mixed disease. These individuals can then receive more advanced, targeted investigations. This statement provides a pragmatic, evidence-based approach for those (in all occupations) to assess employee health and capacity prior to a return to work following severe disease, or while continuing to experience significant post-COVID-19 symptoms (so-called 'long-COVID' or post-COVID-19 syndrome).

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-06-13

Van Braeckel E, Page I, Davidsen JR, et al (2022)

Treatment outcome definitions in chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: a CPAnet consensus statement.

The European respiratory journal, 59(6): pii:13993003.02950-2021.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2023-01-30

Öz TK, Cader FA, Dakhil ZA, et al (2022)

International consensus statement on challenges for women in cardiovascular practice and research in the COVID-19 era.

Minerva cardiology and angiology, 70(6):641-651.

The challenges to academic and professional development and career advancement of women in cardiology (WIC), imposed by the pandemic, not only impinge the female cardiologists' "leaky pipeline" but also make the "leakiness" more obvious. This consensus document aims to highlight the pandemic challenges WIC face, raise awareness of the gender equity gap, and propose mitigating actionable solutions derived from the data and experiences of an international group of female cardiovascular clinicians and researchers. This changing landscape has led to the need for highly specialized cardiologists who may have additional training in critical care, imaging, advanced heart failure, or interventional cardiology. Although women account for most medical school graduates, the number of WIC, particularly in mentioned sub-specialties, remains low. Moreover, women have been more affected by systemic issues within these challenging work environments, limiting their professional progression, career advancement, and economic potential. Therefore, it is imperative that tangible action points be noted and undertaken to ensure the representation of women in leadership, advocacy, and decision-making, and increase diversity in academia. Strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic need to be taken during this COVID-19 pandemic to ensure WIC have a place in the field of Cardiology.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-04-05

Furlong E, Kotecha RS, Conyers R, et al (2022)

COVID-19 vaccination in children and adolescents aged 5 years and older undergoing treatment for cancer and non-malignant haematological conditions: Australian and New Zealand Children's Haematology/Oncology Group consensus statement.

The Medical journal of Australia, 216(6):312-319.

INTRODUCTION: The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation and New Zealand Ministry of Health recommend all children aged ≥ 5 years receive either of the two mRNA COVID-19 vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer), available in both Australia and New Zealand, or Spikevax (Moderna), available in Australia only. Both vaccines are efficacious and safe in the general population, including children. Children and adolescents undergoing treatment for cancer and immunosuppressive therapy for non-malignant haematological conditions are particularly vulnerable, with an increased risk of severe or fatal COVID-19. There remains a paucity of data regarding the immune response to COVID-19 vaccines in immunosuppressed paediatric populations, with data suggestive of reduced immunogenicity of the vaccine in immunocompromised adults.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Considering the safety profile of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and the increased risk of severe COVID-19 in immunocompromised children and adolescents, COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended for this at-risk population. We provide a number of recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccination in this population where immunosuppressive, chemotherapeutic and/or targeted biological agents are used. These include the timing of vaccination in patients undergoing active treatment, management of specific situations where vaccination is contraindicated or recommended under special precautions, and additional vaccination recommendations for severely immunocompromised patients. Finally, we stress the importance of upcoming clinical trials to identify the safest and most efficacious vaccination regimen for this population.

This consensus statement provides recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination in children and adolescents aged ≥ 5 years with cancer and immunocompromising non-malignant haematological conditions, based on evidence, national and international guidelines and expert opinion.

ENDORSED BY: The Australian and New Zealand Children's Haematology/Oncology Group.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-02-28

Al Knawy B, McKillop MM, Abduljawad J, et al (2022)

Successfully Implementing Digital Health to Ensure Future Global Health Security During Pandemics: A Consensus Statement.

JAMA network open, 5(2):e220214 pii:2789277.

IMPORTANCE: COVID-19 has highlighted widespread chronic underinvestment in digital health that hampered public health responses to the pandemic. Recognizing this, the Riyadh Declaration on Digital Health, formulated by an international interdisciplinary team of medical, academic, and industry experts at the Riyadh Global Digital Health Summit in August 2020, provided a set of digital health recommendations for the global health community to address the challenges of current and future pandemics. However, guidance is needed on how to implement these recommendations in practice.

OBJECTIVE: To develop guidance for stakeholders on how best to deploy digital health and data and support public health in an integrated manner to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and future pandemics.

EVIDENCE REVIEW: Themes were determined by first reviewing the literature and Riyadh Global Digital Health Summit conference proceedings, with experts independently contributing ideas. Then, 2 rounds of review were conducted until all experts agreed on the themes and main issues arising using a nominal group technique to reach consensus. Prioritization was based on how useful the consensus recommendation might be to a policy maker.

FINDINGS: A diverse stakeholder group of 13 leaders in the fields of public health, digital health, and health care were engaged to reach a consensus on how to implement digital health recommendations to address the challenges of current and future pandemics. Participants reached a consensus on high-priority issues identified within 5 themes: team, transparency and trust, technology, techquity (the strategic development and deployment of technology in health care and health to achieve health equity), and transformation. Each theme contains concrete points of consensus to guide the local, national, and international adoption of digital health to address challenges of current and future pandemics.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The consensus points described for these themes provide a roadmap for the implementation of digital health policy by all stakeholders, including governments. Implementation of these recommendations could have a significant impact by reducing fatalities and uniting countries on current and future battles against pandemics.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-08-03

El-Boghdadly K, Cook TM, Goodacre T, et al (2022)

Timing of elective surgery and risk assessment after SARS-CoV-2 infection: an update: A multidisciplinary consensus statement on behalf of the Association of Anaesthetists, Centre for Perioperative Care, Federation of Surgical Specialty Associations, Royal College of Anaesthetists, Royal College of Surgeons of England.

Anaesthesia, 77(5):580-587.

The impact of vaccination and new SARS-CoV-2 variants on peri-operative outcomes is unclear. We aimed to update previously published consensus recommendations on timing of elective surgery after SARS-CoV-2 infection to assist policymakers, administrative staff, clinicians and patients. The guidance remains that patients should avoid elective surgery within 7 weeks of infection, unless the benefits of doing so exceed the risk of waiting. We recommend individualised multidisciplinary risk assessment for patients requiring elective surgery within 7 weeks of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This should include baseline mortality risk calculation and assessment of risk modifiers (patient factors; SARS-CoV-2 infection; surgical factors). Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection with previous variants increased peri-operative mortality risk three-fold throughout the 6 weeks after infection, and assumptions that asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic omicron SARS-CoV-2 infection does not add risk are currently unfounded. Patients with persistent symptoms and those with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 may require a longer delay than 7 weeks. Elective surgery should not take place within 10 days of diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, predominantly because the patient may be infectious, which is a risk to surgical pathways, staff and other patients. We now emphasise that timing of surgery should include the assessment of baseline and increased risk, optimising vaccination and functional status, and shared decision-making. While these recommendations focus on the omicron variant and current evidence, the principles may also be of relevance to future variants. As further data emerge, these recommendations may be revised.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-03-30

Scotland KB, Tailly T, Chew BH, et al (2022)

Consensus Statement on Urinary Stone Treatment During a Pandemic: A Delphi Process from the Endourological Society TOWER Research Initiative.

Journal of endourology, 36(3):335-344.

Introduction: The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant impact on the care of patients with urolithiasis. Recommendations and prioritization of endourologic surgical procedures vary among regions, and a comprehensive overall international directive is needed. We used the Delphi method to obtain international consensus on managing urolithiasis patients during the pandemic. Methods: A three-round Delphi process was used to elicit expert consensus (53 global key opinion leaders within the Endourological Society from 36 countries) on an extensive survey on management of endourologic patients in a pandemic. Questions addressed general management, inpatient and outpatient procedures, clinic visits, follow-up care, and best practices for suspension and resumption of routine care. Results: Consensus was achieved in 64/84 (76%) questions. Key consensus findings included the following: consultations should be delivered remotely when possible. Invasive surgical procedures for urolithiasis patients should be reserved for high-risk situations (infection, renal failure, etc.). To prevent aerosolization, spinal anesthesia is preferred over general, whenever feasible. Treatment of asymptomatic renal stones should be deferred. Primary definitive treatment of obstructing or symptomatic stones (both renal and ureteral) is preferred over temporizing drainage. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy should be continued for obstructive ureteral stones. There was consensus on treatment modalities and drainage strategies depending on location and size of the stone. Conclusion: International endourologist members of the Endourological Society participated in this Delphi initiative to provide expert consensus on management of urolithiasis during a pandemic. These results can be applied currently and during a future pandemic.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-03-15

Avutu V, Monga V, Mittal N, et al (2022)

Use of Communication Technology to Improve Clinical Trial Participation in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Consensus Statement From the Children's Oncology Group Adolescent and Young Adult Responsible Investigator Network.

JCO oncology practice, 18(3):224-231.

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs; age 15-39 years) with cancer are under-represented in cancer clinical trials because of patient, provider, and institutional barriers. Health care technology is increasingly available to and highly used among AYAs and has the potential to improve cancer care delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic forced institutions to rapidly adopt novel approaches for enrollment and monitoring of patients on cancer clinical trials, many of which have the potential for improving AYA trial participation overall. This consensus statement from the Children's Oncology Group AYA Oncology Discipline Committee reviews opportunities to use technology to optimize AYA trial enrollment and study conduct, as well as considerations for widespread implementation of these practices. The use of remote patient eligibility screening, electronic informed consent, virtual tumor boards, remote study visits, and remote patient monitoring are recommended to increase AYA access to trials and decrease the burden of participation. Widespread adoption of these strategies will require new policies focusing on reimbursement for telehealth, license portability, facile communication between electronic health record systems and advanced safeguards to maintain patient privacy and security. Studies are needed to determine optimal approaches to further incorporate technology at every stage of the clinical trial process, from enrollment through study completion.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-01-07

Al Hashmi A, von Bandemer S, Shuaib A, et al (2022)

Lessons learned in stroke care during COVID-19 pandemic and preparing for future pandemics in the MENA+ region: A consensus statement from the MENA+-SINO.

Journal of the neurological sciences, 432:120060.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted stroke care services at multiple levels. There was a decline in acute stroke admissions. Fewer interventions have been performed. Increased "door-to-needle times and "door-to-groin puncture" during this pandemic. These factors combined have led to declining in the favoured outcomes of stroke patients' globally. Yet this pandemic permits an opportunity for higher preparedness for future pandemics.

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: This paper aims to shed light on the main lessons learned in the field of stroke care during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Here we are presenting proposals and initiatives for better preparedness in future similar emergencies. These proposals are based primarily on literature review of COVID-19 publications, as well as the first-hand experience gained during the first wave at the regional level. In addition to the consensus and collective ride of stroke experts in the Middle East North Africa Stroke and Interventional Neurotherapies Organization (MENA+-SINO) and interaction and collaboration with international stroke specialists from the Stroke World Organization (WSO), European Stroke Organization (ESO) and stroke and COVID-19 papers authors.

CONCLUSION: Stroke care is very complex, particularly in the initial hours after onset of symptoms. A successful outcome requires very close collaboration between clinical personnel from multiple specialties. Preparedness for future pandemics requires the improvement of care plans that allow for rapid assessment of stroke patients and ensuring that regular 'mock exercises' familiarize quintessential services that care for the stroke patients.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-01-03

Blasi F, Di Pasquale M, Gramegna A, et al (2021)

A new call for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations during COVID-19 pandemic in Italy: A SIP/IRS (Italian Respiratory Society) and SITA (Italian Society of Antiinfective therapy) statement.

Respiratory medicine, 190:106674.

Influenza and pneumococcal disease represent a well-known burden on healthcare systems worldwide, as well as they still have an attributed morbidity and mortality, especially in elderly individuals and vulnerable populations. In the context of the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, a series of considerations in favor of extensive influenza and pneumococcal vaccination campaign are emerging, including a possible reduction of hospital extra burden and saving of sanitary resources. In addition, recent studies have suggested that prior vaccinations towards non SARS-CoV-2 pathogens might confer some protection against COVID-19. In this paper the authors consider all factors in support of these hypotheses and provide a consensus statement to encourage influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations in targeted populations.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-12-09

Viswanathan S, Hiew FL, Siritho S, et al (2021)

Impact of Covid-19 on the therapeutic plasma exchange service within the South East Asian region: Consensus recommendations and global perspectives.

Journal of clinical apheresis, 36(6):849-863.

INTRODUCTION: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) for neuroimmunological disorders has played an increasingly important role within the Southeast Asian (SEA) region. The South East Asian Therapeutic Plasma exchange Consortium (SEATPEC) was formed in 2018 to promote education and research on TPE within the region. The advent of the Covid-19 pandemic has produced challenges for the development and expansion of this service.

METHODOLOGY: A qualitative and semi-quantitative questionnaire-based survey was conducted by SEATPEC member countries from January to June 2020 (Phase 1) and then from July 2020 to January 2021 in (Phase 2) to assess the impact of Covid-19 on regional TPE.

OBJECTIVES: The study's main objectives were to explore the challenges experienced and adaptations/adjustments taken by SEATPEC countries in order to continue safe and efficient TPE during the Covid-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: The pandemic was found to disrupt the delivery of TPE services in all SEATPEC countries. Contributing factors were multifactorial due to overstretched medical services, staff shortages, quarantines and redeployments, fear of acquiring Covid-19, movement restriction orders, and patient's psychological fear of attending hospitals/testing for Covid-19. All SEATPEC countries practiced careful stratification of cases for TPE (electives vs emergencies, Covid-19 vs non-Covid-19 cases). SEATPEC countries had to modify TPE treatment protocols to include careful preprocedure screening of patient's for Covid-19, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and post-TPE sanitization of machines and TPE suites.

CONCLUSION: Based on the responses of the survey, SEATPEC countries produced a consensus statement with five recommendations for safe and effective TPE within the region.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-12-08

Roberts DJ, Edlow AG, Romero RJ, et al (2021)

A standardized definition of placental infection by SARS-CoV-2, a consensus statement from the National Institutes of Health/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development SARS-CoV-2 Placental Infection Workshop.

American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 225(6):593.e1-593.e9.

Pregnant individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 have higher rates of intensive care unit admission, oxygen requirement, need for mechanical ventilation, and death than nonpregnant individuals. Increased COVID-19 disease severity may be associated with an increased risk of viremia and placental infection. Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection is also associated with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and preterm birth, which can be either placentally mediated or reflected in the placenta. Maternal viremia followed by placental infection may lead to maternal-fetal transmission (vertical), which affects 1% to 3% of exposed newborns. However, there is no agreed-upon or standard definition of placental infection. The National Institutes of Health/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development convened a group of experts to propose a working definition of placental infection to inform ongoing studies of SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy. Experts recommended that placental infection be defined using techniques that allow virus detection and localization in placental tissue by one or more of the following methods: in situ hybridization with antisense probe (detects replication) or a sense probe (detects viral messenger RNA) or immunohistochemistry to detect viral nucleocapsid or spike proteins. If the abovementioned methods are not possible, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction detection or quantification of viral RNA in placental homogenates, or electron microscopy are alternative approaches. A graded classification for the likelihood of placental infection as definitive, probable, possible, and unlikely was proposed. Manuscripts reporting placental infection should describe the sampling method (location and number of samples collected), method of preservation of tissue, and detection technique. Recommendations were made for the handling of the placenta, examination, and sampling and the use of validated reagents and sample protocols (included as appendices).

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-08-09

Beniczky S, Husain A, Ikeda A, et al (2021)

Importance of access to epilepsy monitoring units during the COVID-19 pandemic: consensus statement of the International League Against Epilepsy and the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology.

Epileptic disorders : international epilepsy journal with videotape, 23(4):533-536.

Restructuring of healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to lockdown of epilepsy monitoring units (EMUs) in many hospitals. The ad-hoc taskforce of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) and the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology (IFCN) highlights the detrimental effect of postponing video-EEG monitoring of patients with epilepsy and other paroxysmal events. The taskforce calls for action for continued functioning of EMUs during emergency situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Long-term video-EEG monitoring is an essential diagnostic service. Access to video-EEG monitoring of the patients in the EMUs must be given high priority. Patients should be screened for COVID-19, before admission, according to the local regulations. Local policies for COVID-19 infection control should be adhered to during the video-EEG monitoring. In cases of differential diagnosis in which reduction of antiseizure medication is not required, home video-EEG monitoring should be considered as an alternative in selected patients.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2022-01-21

Weber DJ, Al-Tawfiq JA, Babcock HM, et al (2022)

Multisociety statement on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination as a condition of employment for healthcare personnel.

Infection control and hospital epidemiology, 43(1):3-11.

This consensus statement by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) and the Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine (AMDA), the Association for Professionals in Epidemiology and Infection Control (APIC), the HIV Medicine Association (HIVMA), the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (PIDS), and the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP) recommends that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination should be a condition of employment for all healthcare personnel in facilities in the United States. Exemptions from this policy apply to those with medical contraindications to all COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States and other exemptions as specified by federal or state law. The consensus statement also supports COVID-19 vaccination of nonemployees functioning at a healthcare facility (eg, students, contract workers, volunteers, etc).

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-07-15

Geerts JM, Kinnair D, Taheri P, et al (2021)

Guidance for Health Care Leaders During the Recovery Stage of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Consensus Statement.

JAMA network open, 4(7):e2120295 pii:2781729.

IMPORTANCE: The COVID-19 pandemic is the greatest global test of health leadership of our generation. There is an urgent need to provide guidance for leaders at all levels during the unprecedented preresolution recovery stage.

OBJECTIVE: To create an evidence- and expertise-informed framework of leadership imperatives to serve as a resource to guide health and public health leaders during the postemergency stage of the pandemic.

EVIDENCE REVIEW: A literature search in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase revealed 10 910 articles published between 2000 and 2021 that included the terms leadership and variations of emergency, crisis, disaster, pandemic, COVID-19, or public health. Using the Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence reporting guideline for consensus statement development, this assessment adopted a 6-round modified Delphi approach involving 32 expert coauthors from 17 countries who participated in creating and validating a framework outlining essential leadership imperatives.

FINDINGS: The 10 imperatives in the framework are: (1) acknowledge staff and celebrate successes; (2) provide support for staff well-being; (3) develop a clear understanding of the current local and global context, along with informed projections; (4) prepare for future emergencies (personnel, resources, protocols, contingency plans, coalitions, and training); (5) reassess priorities explicitly and regularly and provide purpose, meaning, and direction; (6) maximize team, organizational, and system performance and discuss enhancements; (7) manage the backlog of paused services and consider improvements while avoiding burnout and moral distress; (8) sustain learning, innovations, and collaborations, and imagine future possibilities; (9) provide regular communication and engender trust; and (10) in consultation with public health and fellow leaders, provide safety information and recommendations to government, other organizations, staff, and the community to improve equitable and integrated care and emergency preparedness systemwide.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Leaders who most effectively implement these imperatives are ideally positioned to address urgent needs and inequalities in health systems and to cocreate with their organizations a future that best serves stakeholders and communities.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-08-17

Hegde MN, Parmar G, Logani A, et al (2021)

Dental practice management during COVID-19 times-Now and beyond.

International journal of clinical practice, 75(9):e14251.

AIM: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) being declared a global public health emergency has become a significant challenge for all healthcare workers, including dentistry, recognised as a high-risk profession during these times. This consensus statement aims to highlight and provide guidelines necessary to be implemented for a clinical dental practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of nine conservative Dentists and Endodontists and one Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon; with four panelists from government dental colleges, one each from the North, South, East and West India and six resource persons from private colleges in South India, all of them being clinicians and administrators practicing dentistry since the inception of the pandemic, collaborated in this consensus statement. The consensus statement was developed through a symposium conducted on the topics; general dental practice during COVID-19 times, the importance of aerosols in clinical dental practice in the spread of COVID-19, effective standard operating protocols for clinical dental practice and Institutional settings with scientific evidence-based justifications, followed by a panel discussion with to devise mandatory protocols to be followed in clinical and institutional settings. The symposium was attended by 46 practitioners who participated in the deliberation.

RESULTS: This consensus statement provides clinicians and researchers with protocols for the dental practice, agreed upon by experts in the field. The Consensus Statement has been formulated according to the AGREE Reporting checklist for the formulation of guidelines.

CONCLUSION: The experts and panelists reached a Consensus on the protocols and guidelines for the safe clinical and institutional dental practice.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-08-25

Saibene AM, Allevi F, Ayad T, et al (2021)

Appropriateness for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeons in case of pregnancy, breastfeeding, or childbearing potential: Yo-IFOS and CEORL-HNS joint clinical consensus statement.

European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 278(10):4091-4099.

PURPOSE: SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are a key step in fighting the pandemic. Nevertheless, their rapid development did not allow for testing among specific population subgroups such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, or elaborating specific guidelines for healthcare personnel working in high infection risk specialties, such as otolaryngology (ORL). This clinical consensus statement (CCS) aims to offer guidance for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination to this high-risk population based on the best evidence available.

METHODS: A multidisciplinary international panel of 33 specialists judged statements through a two-round modified Delphi method survey. Statements were designed to encompass the following topics: risk of SARS-Cov-2 infection and use of protective equipment in ORL; SARS-Cov-2 infection and vaccines and respective risks for the mother/child dyad; and counseling for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pregnant, breastfeeding, or fertile healthcare workers (PBFHW). All ORL PBFHW were considered as the target audience.

RESULTS: Of the 13 statements, 7 reached consensus or strong consensus, 2 reached no consensus, and 2 reached near-consensus. According to the statements with strong consensus otorhinolaryngologists-head and neck surgeons who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or with childbearing potential should have the opportunity to receive SARS-Cov-2 vaccination. Moreover, personal protective equipment (PPE) should still be used even after the vaccination.

CONCLUSION: Until prospective evaluations on these topics are available, ORL-HNS must be considered a high infection risk specialty. While the use of PPE remains pivotal, ORL PBFHW should be allowed access to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination provided they receive up-to-date information.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-10-27

Weiler R, Blauwet C, Clarke D, et al (2021)

Concussion in para sport: the first position statement of the Concussion in Para Sport (CIPS) Group.

British journal of sports medicine, 55(21):1187-1195.

Concussion is a frequent injury in many sports and is also common in para athletes. However, there is a paucity of concussion research related to para sport, and prior International Concussion in Sport (CIS) consensus papers have not substantively addressed this population. To remedy this and to improve concussion care provided to para athletes, the concussion in para sport (CIPS) multidisciplinary expert group was created. This group analysed and discussed in-depth para athlete-specific issues within the established key clinical domains of the current (2017) consensus statement on CIS. Due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the group held all meetings by video conferencing. The existing Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 5 (SCAT5) for the immediate on-field and office-based off-field assessment of concussion was evaluated as part of this process, to identify any para athlete-specific concerns. Regular preparticipation and periodic health examinations are essential to determine a baseline reference point for concussion symptoms but pose additional challenges for the interpreting clinician. Further considerations for concussion management for the para athlete are required within the remove, rest, reconsider and refer consensus statement framework. Considering return to sport (RTS), the 2017 CIS consensus statement has limitations when considering the RTS of the para athlete. Case-by-case decision making related to RTS following concussion is imperative for para athletes. Additional challenges exist for the evaluation and management of concussion in para athletes. There is a need for greater understanding of existing knowledge gaps and attitudes towards concussion among athlete medical staff, coaches and para athletes. Future research should investigate the use and performance of common assessment tools in the para athlete population to better guide their clinical application and inform potential modifications. Concussion prevention strategies and sport-specific rule changes, such as in Para Alpine Skiing and Cerebral Palsy Football, also should be carefully considered to reduce the occurrence of concussion in para athletes.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-07-28

Silva CF, Alegria J, Ramos C, et al (2021)

RSNA-STR-ACR Consensus Statement for COVID-19 CT Patterns: Interreader Agreement in 240 Consecutive Patients and Association With RT-PCR Status.

Journal of computer assisted tomography, 45(3):485-489.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to study interreader agreement of the RSNA-STR-ACR (Radiological Society of North America/Society of Thoracic Radiology/American College of Radiology) consensus statement on reporting chest computed tomography (CT) findings related to COVID-19 on a sample of consecutive patients confirmed with reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This institutional review board-approved retrospective study included 240 cases with a mean age of 47.6 ± 15.9 years, ranging from 20 to 90 years, who had a chest CT and RT-PCR performed. Computed tomography images were independently analyzed by 2 thoracic radiologists to identify patterns defined by the RSNA-STR-ACR consensus statement, and concordance was determined with weighted κ tests. Also, CT findings and CT severity scores were tabulated and compared.

RESULTS: Of the 240 cases, 118 had findings on CT. The most frequent on the RT-PCR-positive group were areas of ground-glass opacities (80.5%), crazy-paving pattern (32.2%), and rounded pseudonodular ground-glass opacities (22.9%). Regarding the CT patterns, the most frequent in the RT-PCR-positive group was typical in 75.9%, followed by negative in 17.1%. The interreader agreement was 0.90 (95% confidence interval, 0.80-0.96) in this group. The CT severity score had a mean difference of -0.07 (95% confidence interval, -0.48 to 0.34) among the readers, showing no significant differences regarding visual estimation.

CONCLUSIONS: The RSNA-STR-ACR consensus statement on reporting chest CT patterns for COVID-19 presents a high interreader agreement, with the typical pattern being more frequently associated with RT-PCR-positive examinations.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-03-17

Dambha-Miller H, Griffin SJ, Young D, et al (2021)

The Use of Primary Care Big Data in Understanding the Pharmacoepidemiology of COVID-19: A Consensus Statement From the COVID-19 Primary Care Database Consortium.

Annals of family medicine, 19(2):135-140.

The use of big data containing millions of primary care medical records provides an opportunity for rapid research to help inform patient care and policy decisions during the first and subsequent waves of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Routinely collected primary care data have previously been used for national pandemic surveillance, quantifying associations between exposures and outcomes, identifying high risk populations, and examining the effects of interventions at scale, but there is no consensus on how to effectively conduct or report these data for COVID-19 research. A COVID-19 primary care database consortium was established in April 2020 and its researchers have ongoing COVID-19 projects in overlapping data sets with over 40 million primary care records in the United Kingdom that are variously linked to public health, secondary care, and vital status records. This consensus agreement is aimed at facilitating transparency and rigor in methodological approaches, and consistency in defining and reporting cases, exposures, confounders, stratification variables, and outcomes in relation to the pharmacoepidemiology of COVID-19. This will facilitate comparison, validation, and meta-analyses of research during and after the pandemic.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-03-10

Davanzo R, Agosti M, Cetin I, et al (2021)

Breastfeeding and COVID-19 vaccination: position statement of the Italian scientific societies.

Italian journal of pediatrics, 47(1):45.

The availability of a COVID-19 vaccine has raised the issue of its compatibility with breastfeeding. Consequently, the Italian Society of Neonatology (SIN), the Italian Society of Pediatrics (SIP), the Italian Society of Perinatal Medicine (SIMP), the Italian Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (SIGO), the Italian Association of Hospital Obstetricians-Gynecologists (AOGOI) and the Italian Society of Infectious and Tropical Diseases (SIMIT) have made an ad hoc consensus statement. Currently, knowledge regarding the administration of COVID-19 vaccine to the breastfeeding mother is limited. Nevertheless, as health benefits of breastfeeding are well demonstrated and since biological plausibility suggests that the health risk for the nursed infant is unlikely, Italian scientific societies conclude that COVID-19 vaccination is compatible with breastfeeding.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-09-10

Fix OK, Blumberg EA, Chang KM, et al (2021)

American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases Expert Panel Consensus Statement: Vaccines to Prevent Coronavirus Disease 2019 Infection in Patients With Liver Disease.

Hepatology (Baltimore, Md.), 74(2):1049-1064.

The aim of this document is to provide a concise scientific review of the currently available COVID-19 vaccines and those in development, including mRNA, adenoviral vectors, and recombinant protein approaches. The anticipated use of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) and liver transplant (LT) recipients is reviewed and practical guidance is provided for health care providers involved in the care of patients with liver disease and LT about vaccine prioritization and administration. The Pfizer and Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are associated with a 94%-95% vaccine efficacy compared to placebo against COVID-19. Local site reactions of pain and tenderness were reported in 70%-90% of clinical trial participants, and systemic reactions of fever and fatigue were reported in 40%-70% of participants, but these reactions were generally mild and self-limited and occurred more frequently in younger persons. Severe hypersensitivity reactions related to the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are rare and more commonly observed in women and persons with a history of previous drug reactions for unclear reasons. Because patients with advanced liver disease and immunosuppressed patients were excluded from the vaccine licensing trials, additional data regarding the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines are eagerly awaited in these and other subgroups. Remarkably safe and highly effective mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are now available for widespread use and should be given to all adult patients with CLD and LT recipients. The online companion document located at https://www.aasld.org/about-aasld/covid-19-resources will be updated as additional data become available regarding the safety and efficacy of other COVID-19 vaccines in development.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-12-22

Nadershah M, Al-Sebaei M, AlJabbab A, et al (2020)

Consensus Statement of the Saudi Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery on practice during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia.

Annals of Saudi medicine, 40(6):491-495.

The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has impacted essentially every country's healthcare system in extraordinary ways, fundamentally changing the way we deliver care. The practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery is no exception. In response to this global health crisis, the Saudi Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has prepared this consensus statement to inform our clinical and other medical colleagues and the public at large on proper procedures during this time. The statement is based on the best scientific evidence available and follows the guidelines put forth by the Saudi Ministry of Health on the COVID-19 response. It explains how to manage and triage oral and maxillofacial patients based on the level of care needed at the time of clinical presentation.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-01-25

Triplett KE, LW Collett (2021)

Consensus statement: Safe Airway Society principles of airway management and tracheal intubation specific to the COVID-19 adult patient group.

The Medical journal of Australia, 214(1):45-45.e1.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-01-25

Brewster DJ, Groombridge CJ, JJ Gatward (2021)

Consensus statement: Safe Airway Society principles of airway management and tracheal intubation specific to the COVID-19 adult patient group.

The Medical journal of Australia, 214(1):46-46.e1.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-08-20

Ma IWY, Hussain A, Wagner M, et al (2021)

Canadian Internal Medicine Ultrasound (CIMUS) Expert Consensus Statement on the Use of Lung Ultrasound for the Assessment of Medical Inpatients With Known or Suspected Coronavirus Disease 2019.

Journal of ultrasound in medicine : official journal of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, 40(9):1879-1892.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a consensus statement on the use of lung ultrasound (LUS) in the assessment of symptomatic general medical inpatients with known or suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS: Our LUS expert panel consisted of 14 multidisciplinary international experts. Experts voted in 3 rounds on the strength of 26 recommendations as "strong," "weak," or "do not recommend." For recommendations that reached consensus for do not recommend, a fourth round was conducted to determine the strength of those recommendations, with 2 additional recommendations considered.

RESULTS: Of the 26 recommendations, experts reached consensus on 6 in the first round, 13 in the second, and 7 in the third. Four recommendations were removed because of redundancy. In the fourth round, experts considered 4 recommendations that reached consensus for do not recommend and 2 additional scenarios; consensus was reached for 4 of these. Our final recommendations consist of 24 consensus statements; for 2 of these, the strength of the recommendations did not reach consensus.

CONCLUSIONS: In symptomatic medical inpatients with known or suspected COVID-19, we recommend the use of LUS to: (1) support the diagnosis of pneumonitis but not diagnose COVID-19, (2) rule out concerning ultrasound features, (3) monitor patients with a change in the clinical status, and (4) avoid unnecessary additional imaging for patients whose pretest probability of an alternative or superimposed diagnosis is low. We do not recommend the use of LUS to guide admission and discharge decisions. We do not recommend routine serial LUS in patients without a change in their clinical condition.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-12-01

Swaminathan N, Jiandani M, Surendran PJ, et al (2020)

Beyond COVID-19: Evidence-Based Consensus Statement on the Role of Physiotherapy in Pulmonary Rehabilitation in the Indian Context.

The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, 68(12):82-89.

Post COVID-19 sequelae includes breathlessness, weakness, fatigue, decreased exercise tolerance and impaired quality of life. Physiotherapy based rehabilitation program is an essential component for post COVID-19 patients in facilitating maximum functional recovery. Expert consensus statements are available from the developed countries. There is a need for a guidelines to manage post COVID-19 sequelae in Indian context. The objective of this consensus statement is to provide evidence informed guidelines for post COVID-19 physiotherapy management as a component of pulmonary rehabilitation. This consensus statement was developed by expert panel across India. Published literatures were appraised and used to prepare the recommendations. This is the first of its kind of work providing preliminary guidelines for post COVID-19 physiotherapy.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-02-17

Ferreira CE, Bonvehi PE, de la Torre JCG, et al (2021)

Algorithms for testing COVID-19 focused on use of RT-PCR and high-affinity serological testing: A consensus statement from a panel of Latin American experts.

International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases, 103:260-267.

UNLABELLED: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented public health, social, and economic crisis. Improving understanding on available tests for detecting COVID-19 is critical for effective management of the pandemic. We proposed that a multidisciplinary expert panel can establish recommendations on ideal use of diagnostic tools, with a focus on RT-PCR and serological high-affinity antibodies (both IgM and IgG) tests for the Latin America region.

STUDY DESIGN: A collaborative multidisciplinary panel of 5 recognized experts in Latin America (an infectious disease specialist, three pathologists, and an immunologist) was convened and supported by Roche Diagnostics to develop standard guidelines and an evidence-based document of best practices on the use of diagnostic tools for COVID-19.

RESULTS: The authors reached consensus on the applicability of diagnostic tools to provide testing algorithms for the use of RT-PCR and serological high-affinity antibodies (both IgM and IgG) tests in three settings: 1) For asymptomatic subjects exposed to a SARS-CoV-2 infected person; 2) For epidemiological purposes and; 3) For symptomatic subjects.

CONCLUSION: The serological high-affinity SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (both IgM and IgG) tests play a key role in COVID-19 diagnosis. These tests can be applied for suspected false-negative RT-PCR results and for individual determination of response. The use of these tests can also contribute greatly to public health strategies, such as population screening and supporting vaccination planning. Serological status for high-affinity antibodies (both IgM and IgG) should be performed ideally 21 days after potential infectious contact, given that the majority of exposed individuals will have seroconverted.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-05-17

Baldassarre LA, Yang EH, Cheng RK, et al (2021)

Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient During COVID-19: An Expert Consensus Document From the ACC Cardio-Oncology and Imaging Councils.

Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 113(5):513-522.

In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Cardio-Oncology and Imaging Councils of the American College of Cardiology offers recommendations to clinicians regarding the cardiovascular care of cardio-oncology patients in this expert consensus statement. Cardio-oncology patients-individuals with an active or prior cancer history and with or at risk of cardiovascular disease-are a rapidly growing population who are at increased risk of infection, and experiencing severe and/or lethal complications by COVID-19. Recommendations for optimizing screening and monitoring visits to detect cardiac dysfunction are discussed. In addition, judicious use of multimodality imaging and biomarkers are proposed to identify myocardial, valvular, vascular, and pericardial involvement in cancer patients. The difficulties of diagnosing the etiology of cardiovascular complications in patients with cancer and COVID-19 are outlined, along with weighing the advantages against risks of exposure, with the modification of existing cardiovascular treatments and cardiotoxicity surveillance in patients with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-05-03

Freeman-Sanderson A, Ward EC, Miles A, et al (2021)

A Consensus Statement for the Management and Rehabilitation of Communication and Swallowing Function in the ICU: A Global Response to COVID-19.

Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 102(5):835-842.

OBJECTIVE: To identify core practices for workforce management of communication and swallowing functions in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive patients within the intensive care unit (ICU).

DESIGN: A modified Delphi methodology was used, with 3 electronic voting rounds. AGREE II and an adapted COVID-19 survey framework from physiotherapy were used to develop survey statements. Sixty-six statements pertaining to workforce planning and management of communication and swallowing function in the ICU were included.

SETTING: Electronic modified Delphi process.

PARTICIPANTS: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) (N=35) from 6 continents representing 12 countries.

INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The main outcome was consensus agreement, defined a priori as ≥70% of participants with a mean Likert score ≥7.0 (11-point scale: 0=strongly disagree, 10=strongly agree). Prioritization rank order of statements in a fourth round was also conducted.

RESULTS: SLPs with a median of 15 years of ICU experience, working primarily in clinical (54%), academic (29%), or managerial positions (17%), completed all voting rounds. After the third round, 64 statements (97%) met criteria. Rank ordering identified issues of high importance.

CONCLUSIONS: A set of global consensus statements to facilitate planning and delivery of rehabilitative care for patients admitted to the ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic were agreed by an international expert SLP group. Statements focused on considerations for workforce preparation, resourcing and training, and the management of communication and swallowing functions. These statements support and provide direction for all members of the rehabilitation team to use for patients admitted to the ICU during a global pandemic.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-11-09

Chagas AL, Fonseca LGD, Coelho FF, et al (2020)

Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma during the COVID-19 Pandemic - São Paulo Clínicas Liver Cancer Group Multidisciplinary Consensus Statement.

Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 75:e2192.

More than 18 million people in 188 countries have been diagnosed as having coronavirus disease (COVID-19), and COVID-19 has been responsible for more than 600,000 deaths worldwide. Brazil is now the second most affected country globally. Faced with this scenario, various public health measures and changes in the daily routines of hospitals were implemented to stop the pandemic. Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are at an increased risk for severe COVID-19 as they present with two major diseases: cancer and concomitant chronic liver disease. The COVID-19 pandemic can significantly impact the management of HCC patients from diagnosis to treatment strategies. These patients need special attention and assistance at this time, especially since treatment for tumors cannot be delayed in most cases. The aim of this guideline was to standardize the management of HCC patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. This document was developed, on the basis of the best evidence available, by a multidisciplinary team from Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), and Instituto Central of the Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), which are members of the São Paulo Clínicas Liver Cancer Group.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-01-27

Irons JF, Pavey W, Bennetts JS, et al (2021)

COVID-19 safety: aerosol-generating procedures and cardiothoracic surgery and anaesthesia - Australian and New Zealand consensus statement.

The Medical journal of Australia, 214(1):40-44.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease that is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Health care workers are at risk of infection from aerosolisation of respiratory secretions, droplet and contact spread. There are a number of procedures that represent a high risk of aerosol generation during cardiothoracic surgery. It is important that adequate training, equipment and procedures are in place to reduce that risk.

RECOMMENDATIONS: We provide a number of key recommendations, which reduce the risk of aerosol generation during cardiothoracic surgery and help protect patients and staff. These include general measures such as patient risk stratification, appropriate use of personal protective equipment, consideration to delay surgery in positive patients, and careful attention to theatre planning and preparation. There are also recommended procedural interventions during airway management, transoesophageal echocardiography, cardiopulmonary bypass, chest drain management and specific cardiothoracic surgical procedures. Controversies exist regarding the management of low risk patients undergoing procedures at high risk of aerosol generation, and recommendations for these patients will change depending on the regional prevalence, risk of community transmission and the potential for asymptomatic patients attending for these procedures.

This statement reflects changes in management based on expert opinion, national guidelines and available evidence. Our knowledge with regard to COVID-19 continues to evolve and with this, guidance may change and develop. Our colleagues are urged to follow national guidelines and institutional recommendations regarding best practices to protect their patients and themselves.

ENDORSED BY: Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons and the Anaesthetic Continuing Education Cardiac Thoracic Vascular and Perfusion Special Interest Group.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-12-18

Haines J, Esposito K, Slinger C, et al (2020)

UK consensus statement on the diagnosis of inducible laryngeal obstruction in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clinical and experimental allergy : journal of the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 50(12):1287-1293.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, laryngoscopy was the mandatory gold standard for the accurate assessment and diagnosis of inducible laryngeal obstruction. However, upper airway endoscopy is considered an aerosol-generating procedure in professional guidelines, meaning routine procedures are highly challenging and the availability of laryngoscopy is reduced. In response, we have convened a multidisciplinary panel with broad experience in managing this disease and agreed a recommended strategy for presumptive diagnosis in patients who cannot have laryngoscopy performed due to pandemic restrictions. To maintain clinical standards whilst ensuring patient safety, we discuss the importance of triage, information gathering, symptom assessment and early review of response to treatment. The consensus recommendations will also be potentially relevant to other future situations where access to laryngoscopy is restricted, although we emphasize that this investigation remains the gold standard.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-11-02

Verbruggen LC, Wang Y, Armenian SH, et al (2020)

Guidance regarding COVID-19 for survivors of childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer: A statement from the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group.

Pediatric blood & cancer, 67(12):e28702.

Childhood, adolescent, and young adult (CAYA) cancer survivors may be at risk for a severe course of COVID-19. Little is known about the clinical course of COVID-19 in CAYA cancer survivors, or if additional preventive measures are warranted. We established a working group within the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group (IGHG) to summarize existing evidence and worldwide recommendations regarding evidence about factors/conditions associated with risk for a severe course of COVID-19 in CAYA cancer survivors, and to develop a consensus statement to provide guidance for healthcare practitioners and CAYA cancer survivors regarding COVID-19.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-11-30

Lapid MI, Seiner S, Heintz H, et al (2020)

Electroconvulsive Therapy Practice Changes in Older Individuals Due to COVID-19: Expert Consensus Statement.

The American journal of geriatric psychiatry : official journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry, 28(11):1133-1145.

The ubiquitous coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has required healthcare providers across all disciplines to rapidly adapt to public health guidelines to reduce risk while maintaining quality of care. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which involves an aerosol-generating procedure from manual ventilation with a bag mask valve while under anesthesia, has undergone drastic practice changes in order to minimize disruption of treatment in the midst of COVID-19. In this paper, we provide a consensus statement on the clinical practice changes in ECT specific to older adults based on expert group discussions of ECT practitioners across the country and a systematic review of the literature. There is a universal consensus that ECT is an essential treatment of severe mental illness. In addition, there is a clear consensus on what modifications are imperative to ensure continued delivery of ECT in a manner that is safe for patients and staff, while maintaining the viability of ECT services. Approaches to modifications in ECT to address infection control, altered ECT procedures, and adjusting ECT operations are almost uniform across the globe. With modified ECT procedures, it is possible to continue to meet the needs of older patients while mitigating risk of transmission to this vulnerable population.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-09-08

Deora H, Sadashiva N, Tripathi M, et al (2020)

The Aftermath of COVID-19 Lockdown- Why and How Should We Be Ready?.

Neurology India, 68(4):774-791.

INTRODUCTION: Severe acute respiratory syndrome, coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV 2) has inexplicably and irreversibly changed the way of neurosurgery practice. There has been a substantial reduction in neurosurgical operations during the period of lockdown. The lockdown might be the most effective measure to curtail viral transmission. Once we return to the normalization of the lifestyle, there will be a backlog of unoperated pending cases along with the possibility of further spread of the coronavirus.

METHODS: We reviewed the available literature and protocols for neurosurgical practice in different geographic locations. We drafted a consensus statement based on the literature and protocols suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO) and various professional societies to prevent the spread of SARS-COV2 while streamlining the neurosurgical practice.

RESULTS: The consensus statement suggests the patient triage, workflow, resource distribution, and operational efficacy for care providers at different stages of management. The priority is set at personal protection while ensuring patients' safety, timely management, and capacity building. We performed a detailed subsection analysis for the management of trauma and set up for COVID-free hospitals for simultaneous management of routine neurosurgical indications. In this time of medicolegal upheaval, special consent from the patients should be taken in view of the chances of delay in management and the added risk of corona infection. The consensus statements are applicable to neurosurgical setups of all capacities.

CONCLUSION: Along with the glaring problem of infection, there is another threat of neurosurgery emergency building up. This wave may overwhelm the already stretched systems to the hilt. We need to flatten this curve while avoiding contagion. These measures may guide neurosurgery practitioners to effectively manage patients ensuring the safety of caregivers and care seekers both.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-09-10

Kort NP, Barrena EG, Bédard M, et al (2020)

Recommendations for resuming elective hip and knee arthroplasty in the setting of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: the European Hip Society and European Knee Associates Survey of Members.

Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy : official journal of the ESSKA, 28(9):2723-2729.

PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the health care system around the entire globe. A consensus is needed about resuming total hip and knee procedures. The European Hip Society (EHS) and the European Knee Association (EKA) formed a panel of experts that have produced a consensus statement on how the safe re-introduction of elective hip and knee arthroplasty should be undertaken.

METHODS: A prospective online survey was done among members of EHS and EKA. The survey consisted of 27 questions. It includes basic information on demographics and details the participant's agreement with each recommendation. The participant could choose among three options (agree, disagree, abstain). Recommendations focussed on pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative handling of patients and precautions.

RESULTS: A total of 681 arthroplasty surgeons participated in the survey, with 479 fully completing the survey. The participants were from 44 countries and 6 continents. Apart from adhering to National and Local Guidelines, the recommendations concerned how to make elective arthroplasty safe for patients and staff.

CONCLUSION: The survey has shown good-to-excellent agreement of the participants with regards to the statements made in the recommendations for the safe return to elective arthroplasty following the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-01-22

Pouwels S, Omar I, Aggarwal S, et al (2021)

The First Modified Delphi Consensus Statement for Resuming Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery in the COVID-19 Times.

Obesity surgery, 31(1):451-456.

The purpose of this study was to achieve consensus amongst a global panel of expert bariatric surgeons on various aspects of resuming Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery (BMS) during the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A modified Delphi consensus-building protocol was used to build consensus amongst 44 globally recognised bariatric surgeons. The experts were asked to either agree or disagree with 111 statements they collectively proposed over two separate rounds. An agreement amongst ≥ 70.0% of experts was construed as consensus as per the predetermined methodology. We present here 38 of our key recommendations. This first global consensus statement on the resumption of BMS can provide a framework for multidisciplinary BMS teams planning to resume local services as well as guide future research in this area.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-31

Alghamdi F, Alshaikh N, Bamaga AK, et al (2020)

A consensus statement on spinal muscular atrophy management in Saudi Arabia in the context of COVID-19.

Neurosciences (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), 25(3):230-237.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-14

Shreenivas S, Choo J, Answini G, et al (2020)

TAVR During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The ACC/SCAI Consensus Statement.

JACC. Cardiovascular interventions, 13(13):1605-1606.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2021-01-25

Byrne D, Neill SBO, Müller NL, et al (2021)

RSNA Expert Consensus Statement on Reporting Chest CT Findings Related to COVID-19: Interobserver Agreement Between Chest Radiologists.

Canadian Association of Radiologists journal = Journal l'Association canadienne des radiologistes, 72(1):159-166.

PURPOSE: To assess the interobserver variability between chest radiologists in the interpretation of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) expert consensus statement reporting guidelines in patients with suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia in a setting with limited reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction testing availability.

METHODS: Chest computed tomography (CT) studies in 303 consecutive patients with suspected COVID-19 were reviewed by 3 fellowship-trained chest radiologists. Cases were assigned an impression of typical, indeterminate, atypical, or negative for COVID-19 pneumonia according to the RSNA expert consensus statement reporting guidelines, and interobserver analysis was performed. Objective CT features associated with COVID-19 pneumonia and distribution of findings were recorded.

RESULTS: The Fleiss kappa for all observers was almost perfect for typical (0.815), atypical (0.806), and negative (0.962) COVID-19 appearances (P < .0001) and substantial (0.636) for indeterminate COVID-19 appearance (P < .0001). Using Cramer V analysis, there were very strong correlations between all radiologists' interpretations, statistically significant for all (typical, indeterminate, atypical, and negative) COVID-19 appearances (P < .001). Objective CT imaging findings were recorded in similar percentages of typical cases by all observers.

CONCLUSION: The RSNA expert consensus statement on reporting chest CT findings related to COVID-19 demonstrates substantial to almost perfect interobserver agreement among chest radiologists in a relatively large cohort of patients with clinically suspected COVID-19. It therefore serves as a reliable reference framework for radiologists to accurately communicate their level of suspicion based on the presence of evidence-based objective findings.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-08

Guckenberger M, Belka C, Bezjak A, et al (2020)

Practice Recommendations for Lung Cancer Radiotherapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An ESTRO-ASTRO Consensus Statement.

International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics, 107(4):631-640.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused radiotherapy resource pressures and led to increased risks for lung cancer patients and healthcare staff. An international group of experts in lung cancer radiotherapy established this practice recommendation pertaining to whether and how to adapt radiotherapy for lung cancer in the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: For this ESTRO & ASTRO endorsed project, 32 experts in lung cancer radiotherapy contributed to a modified Delphi consensus process. We assessed potential adaptations of radiotherapy in two pandemic scenarios. The first, an early pandemic scenario of risk mitigation, is characterized by an altered risk-benefit ratio of radiotherapy for lung cancer patients due to their increased susceptibility for severe COVID-19 infection, and minimization of patient travelling and exposure of radiotherapy staff. The second, a later pandemic scenario, is characterized by reduced radiotherapy resources requiring patient triage. Six common lung cancer cases were assessed for both scenarios: peripherally located stage I NSCLC, locally advanced NSCLC, postoperative radiotherapy after resection of pN2 NSCLC, thoracic radiotherapy and prophylactic cranial irradiation for limited stage SCLC and palliative thoracic radiotherapy for stage IV NSCLC.

RESULTS: In a risk-mitigation pandemic scenario, efforts should be made not to compromise the prognosis of lung cancer patients by departing from guideline-recommended radiotherapy practice. In that same scenario, postponement or interruption of radiotherapy treatment of COVID-19 positive patients is generally recommended to avoid exposure of cancer patients and staff to an increased risk of COVID-19 infection. In a severe pandemic scenario characterized by reduced resources, if patients must be triaged, important factors for triage include potential for cure, relative benefit of radiation, life expectancy, and performance status. Case-specific consensus recommendations regarding multimodality treatment strategies and fractionation of radiotherapy are provided.

CONCLUSION: This joint ESTRO-ASTRO practice recommendation established pragmatic and balanced consensus recommendations in common clinical scenarios of radiotherapy for lung cancer in order to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-20

Weinstein GS, Cohen R, Lin A, et al (2020)

Penn Medicine Head and Neck Cancer Service Line COVID-19 management guidelines.

Head & neck, 42(7):1507-1515.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has altered the health care environment for the management of head and neck cancers. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide direction during the pandemic for rational Head and Neck Cancer management in order to achieve a medically and ethically appropriate balance of risks and benefits.

METHODS: Creation of consensus document.

RESULTS: The process yielded a consensus statement among a wide range of practitioners involved in the management of patients with head and neck cancer in a multihospital tertiary care health system.

CONCLUSIONS: These guidelines support an ethical approach for the management of head and neck cancers during the COVID-19 epidemic consistent with both the local standard of care as well as the head and neck oncological literature.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-08-18

Arnold RH, Tideman PA, Devlin GP, et al (2020)

Rural and Remote Cardiology During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) Consensus Statement.

Heart, lung & circulation, 29(7):e88-e93.

THE CHALLENGES: Rural and remote Australians and New Zealanders have a higher rate of adverse outcomes due to acute myocardial infarction, driven by many factors. The prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is also higher in regional and remote populations, and people with known CVD have increased morbidity and mortality from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In addition, COVID-19 is associated with serious cardiac manifestations, potentially placing additional demand on limited regional services at a time of diminished visiting metropolitan support with restricted travel. Inter-hospital transfer is currently challenging as receiving centres enact pandemic protocols, creating potential delays, and cardiovascular resources are diverted to increasing intensive care unit (ICU) and emergency department (ED) capacity. Regional and rural centres have limited staff resources, placing cardiac services at risk in the event of staff infection or quarantine during the pandemic.

MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS: Health districts, cardiologists and government agencies need to minimise impacts on the already vulnerable cardiovascular health of regional and remote Australians and New Zealanders throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes in management should include.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-29

De Gregorio MA, Guirola JA, Magallanes M, et al (2020)

COVID-19 Outbreak: Infection Control and Management Protocol for Vascular and Interventional Radiology Departments-Consensus Document.

Cardiovascular and interventional radiology, 43(8):1208-1215.

COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2 virus) pandemic was recently declared by the WHO as a global health emergency. A group of interventional radiology senior experts developed a consensus document for infection control and management of patients with COVID-19 in interventional radiology (IR) departments. This consensus statement has been brought together at short notice with the help of different protocols developed by governmental entities and scientific societies to be adapted to the current reality and needs of IR Departments. Recommendations are the specific strategies to follow in IR departments, preventive measures and regulations, step by step for donning and doffing personal protective equipment, specific IR procedures which can not be delayed, and aerosol-generating procedures in IR with COVID-19 patients. It is advisable with this document to be adapted to local workplace policies.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-08-18

Gray B, Semsarian C, Fatkin D, et al (2020)

Patients With Genetic Heart Disease and COVID-19: A Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) Consensus Statement.

Heart, lung & circulation, 29(7):e85-e87.

In the context of the current global COVID-19 pandemic, this Consensus Statement provides current recommendations for patients with, or at risk of developing, genetic heart disease, and for their health care management and service provision in Australia and New Zealand. Apart from general recommendations, there are specific recommendations for the following conditions: cardiomyopathy, Brugada syndrome (including in children), long QT syndrome (LQTS) and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). Other recommendations are relevant to patient self-care and primary health care.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-06-26

Di Ciaccio P, McCaughan G, Trotman J, et al (2020)

Australian and New Zealand consensus statement on the management of lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and myeloma during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Internal medicine journal, 50(6):667-679.

The COVID-19 pandemic poses a unique challenge to the care of patients with haematological malignancies. Viral pneumonia is known to cause disproportionately severe disease in patients with cancer, and patients with lymphoma, myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia are likely to be at particular risk of severe disease related to COVID-19. This statement has been developed by consensus among authors from Australia and New Zealand. We aim to provide supportive guidance to clinicians making individual patient decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular during periods that access to healthcare resources may be limited. General recommendations include those to minimise patient exposure to COVID-19, including the use of telehealth, avoidance of non-essential visits and minimisation of time spent by patients in infusion suites and other clinical areas. This statement also provides recommendations where appropriate in assessing indications for therapy, reducing therapy-associated immunosuppression and reducing healthcare utilisation in patients with specific haematological malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specific decisions regarding therapy of haematological malignancies will need to be individualised, based on disease risk, risks of immunosuppression, rates of community transmission of COVID-19 and available local healthcare resources.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-06-12

Brewster DJ, Chrimes N, Do TB, et al (2020)

Consensus statement: Safe Airway Society principles of airway management and tracheal intubation specific to the COVID-19 adult patient group.

The Medical journal of Australia, 212(10):472-481.

INTRODUCTION: This statement was planned on 11 March 2020 to provide clinical guidance and aid staff preparation for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Australia and New Zealand. It has been widely endorsed by relevant specialty colleges and societies.

MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS: Generic guidelines exist for the intubation of different patient groups, as do resources to facilitate airway rescue and transition to the "can't intubate, can't oxygenate" scenario. They should be followed where they do not contradict our specific recommendations for the COVID-19 patient group. Consideration should be given to using a checklist that has been specifically modified for the COVID-19 patient group. Early intubation should be considered to prevent the additional risk to staff of emergency intubation and to avoid prolonged use of high flow nasal oxygen or non-invasive ventilation. Significant institutional preparation is required to optimise staff and patient safety in preparing for the airway management of the COVID-19 patient group. The principles for airway management should be the same for all patients with COVID-19 (asymptomatic, mild or critically unwell). Safe, simple, familiar, reliable and robust practices should be adopted for all episodes of airway management for patients with COVID-19.

Airway clinicians in Australia and New Zealand should now already be involved in regular intensive training for the airway management of the COVID-19 patient group. This training should focus on the principles of early intervention, meticulous planning, vigilant infection control, efficient processes, clear communication and standardised practice.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-05-05

Bajunaid K, Sabbagh AJ, Ajlan A, et al (2020)

Consensus Statement of the Saudi Association of Neurological Surgery (SANS) on Triage of Neurosurgery Patients During COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia.

Neurosciences (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), 25(2):148-151.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-06-25

Troost EGC, Nestle U, Putora PM, et al (2020)

Practice recommendations for lung cancer radiotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: An ESTRO-ASTRO consensus statement.

Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, 147:227-228.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-04-27

Sengupta S, Honavar SG, Sachdev MS, et al (2020)

All India Ophthalmological Society - Indian Journal of Ophthalmology consensus statement on preferred practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian journal of ophthalmology, 68(5):711-724.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken tragic proportions and has disrupted lives globally. In the wake of governmental lockdowns, ophthalmologists need practical and actionable guidelines based on advisories from national health departments on how to conduct their duties during nationwide lockdowns and after these are lifted. In this paper, we present a preferred practice pattern (PPP) based on consensus discussions between leading ophthalmologists and health care professionals in India including representatives from major governmental and private institutions as well as the All India Ophthalmological Society leadership. In this document, the expert panel clearly defines the range of activities for Indian ophthalmologists during the ongoing lockdown phase and precautions to be taken once the lockdown is lifted. Guidelines for triage, governmental guidelines for use of personal protective equipment from ophthalmologists' point of view, precautions to be taken in the OPD and operating room as well as care of various ophthalmic equipment have been described in detail. These guidelines will be applicable to all practice settings including tertiary institutions, corporate and group practices and individual eye clinics and should help Indian ophthalmologists in performing their professional responsibilities without being foci of disease transmission.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-08

Thomson DJ, Palma D, Guckenberger M, et al (2020)

Practice Recommendations for Risk-Adapted Head and Neck Cancer Radiation Therapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An ASTRO-ESTRO Consensus Statement.

International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics, 107(4):618-627.

PURPOSE: Because of the unprecedented disruption of health care services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Society of Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) and the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) identified an urgent need to issue practice recommendations for radiation oncologists treating head and neck cancer (HNC) in a time of limited resources and heightened risk for patients and staff.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: A panel of international experts from ASTRO, ESTRO, and select Asia-Pacific countries completed a modified rapid Delphi process. Topics and questions were presented to the group, and subsequent questions were developed from iterative feedback. Each survey was open online for 24 hours, and successive rounds started within 24 hours of the previous round. The chosen cutoffs for strong agreement (≥80%) and agreement (≥66%) were extrapolated from the RAND methodology. Two pandemic scenarios, early (risk mitigation) and late (severely reduced radiation therapy resources), were evaluated. The panel developed treatment recommendations for 5 HNC cases.

RESULTS: In total, 29 of 31 of those invited (94%) accepted, and after a replacement 30 of 30 completed all 3 surveys (100% response rate). There was agreement or strong agreement across a number of practice areas, including treatment prioritization, whether to delay initiation or interrupt radiation therapy for intercurrent SARS-CoV-2 infection, approaches to treatment (radiation dose-fractionation schedules and use of chemotherapy in each pandemic scenario), management of surgical cases in event of operating room closures, and recommended adjustments to outpatient clinic appointments and supportive care.

CONCLUSIONS: This urgent practice recommendation was issued in the knowledge of the very difficult circumstances in which our patients find themselves at present, navigating strained health care systems functioning with limited resources and at heightened risk to their health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this consensus statement is to ensure high-quality HNC treatments continue, to save lives and for symptomatic benefit.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-07-23

Fix OK, Hameed B, Fontana RJ, et al (2020)

Clinical Best Practice Advice for Hepatology and Liver Transplant Providers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: AASLD Expert Panel Consensus Statement.

Hepatology (Baltimore, Md.), 72(1):287-304.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is rapidly spreading throughout the world. Hospitals and healthcare providers are preparing for the anticipated surge in critically ill patients, but few are wholly equipped to manage this new disease. The goals of this document are to provide data on what is currently known about COVID-19, and how it may impact hepatologists and liver transplant providers and their patients. Our aim is to provide a template for the development of clinical recommendations and policies to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on liver patients and healthcare providers.

APPROACH AND RESULTS: This article discusses what is known about COVID-19 with a focus on its impact on hepatologists, liver transplant providers, patients with liver disease, and liver transplant recipients. We provide clinicians with guidance for how to minimize the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their patients' care.

CONCLUSIONS: The situation is evolving rapidly, and these recommendations will need to evolve as well. As we learn more about how the COVID-19 pandemic impacts the care of patients with liver disease, we will update the online document available at https://www.aasld.org/about-aasld/covid-19-and-liver.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-04-30

Siskind D, Honer WG, Clark S, et al (2020)

Consensus statement on the use of clozapine during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Journal of psychiatry & neuroscience : JPN, 45(3):222-223.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-04-16

Casini A, Alberio L, Angelillo-Scherrer A, et al (2020)

Thromboprophylaxis and laboratory monitoring for in-hospital patients with COVID-19 - a Swiss consensus statement by the Working Party Hemostasis.

Swiss medical weekly, 150:w20247 pii:Swiss Med Wkly. 2020;150:w20247.

RevDate: 2025-12-04
CmpDate: 2020-04-09

Talreja H, Tan J, Dawes M, et al (2020)

A consensus statement on the use of angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in relation to COVID-19 (corona virus disease 2019).

The New Zealand medical journal, 133(1512):85-87.

There has been a lot of speculation that patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who are receiving angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) may be at increased risk for adverse outcomes. We reviewed the available evidence, and have not found this to be the case. We recommend that patients on such medications should continue on them unless there is a clinical indication to stop their use.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Ahn YJ, Jung C, Rhee JE, et al (2025)

[Overview of PCR-based Diagnostic Assays for Emerging Infectious Disease Pathogens].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 18(45):1813-1832.

OBJECTIVES: Continuous genetic variation in pathogens enhances their infectious potential and promotes the emergence of infectious disease outbreaks, highlighting the need for diagnostic technologies capable of broad-range detection. Herein, we introduce pan-polymerase chain reaction (pan-PCR) and multiplex PCR assays to identify the causative agents of emerging or unknown infectious diseases.

METHODS: To introduce the research, development, and practical applications of pan-PCR and multiplex PCR assays for pathogen diagnosis, a comprehensive review was conducted. The review focused on recent domestic and international institutional reports and academic literature on public health and PCR-based diagnostic methods. Literature published since the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic was included.

RESULTS: Both technologies have been recognized as core diagnostic approaches to effectively respond to emerging and unknown infectious diseases. Pan-PCR uses conserved gene regions for the initial screening of unknown pathogens, whereas multiplex PCR is used to simultaneously identify specific pathogens, including co-infection cases. These two technologies could be utilized complementarily to identify the causative agents of emerging infectious diseases.

CONCLUSIONS: Pan-PCR and multiplex PCR show promise as key diagnostic platforms to facilitate proactive responses in the face of infectious disease threats in the future. The simultaneous use of both technologies, capitalizing on their respective strengths in versatility and specificity, is likely to improve diagnostic capabilities for emerging or unknown infectious diseases and strengthen public health surveillance.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Lee JH, Park HJ, Yi H, et al (2024)

[Application and Significance of Wastewater-based Pathogen Monitoring in Infectious Disease Surveillance: Insights from International Case Studies].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 17(48):2134-2146.

Wastewater-based monitoring of pathogens, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has emerged as a highly effective tool for infectious disease surveillance systems. Wastewater surveillance systems can detect emerging infectious diseases or new viral variants in a community earlier than hospital-based clinical surveillance systems, thereby preventing the spread of infections. In particular, it provides a foundation for rapid response to variants with higher transmissibility and virulence. This study aims to examine how wastewater-based pathogen surveillance can be applied to monitor pathogen mutations through case studies from various countries worldwide. Moreover, wastewater surveillance is more cost-effective than mass testing in areas with low clinical testing rates and large populations. Genomic analysis of wastewater can detect several pathogens that may not be captured by clinical surveillance, thereby providing critical information for predicting the emergence of potential variants. In conclusion, wastewater-based pathogen surveillance is a valuable tool in public health management to respond to infectious diseases. It enables the monitoring of infectious disease spread and pathogen mutation trends. In addition, it can function as an early warning system through the analysis of wastewater from communities.

RevDate: 2025-12-03

Haensler J, Even L, Wils P, et al (2025)

Not so cold! Improving the thermostability of mRNA vaccines.

Expert review of vaccines [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: One of the biggest challenges in the mRNA-LNP vaccine field is product stabilization to overcome the logistical hurdles linked to the ultra-cold distribution chain associated with first generation mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Despite recent progress in the field, many R&D efforts remain focused on the development of mRNA-LNP vaccines that would be stable as liquid formulations for storage at refrigerated or room temperatures.

AREAS COVERED: After an overview of the underlying mechanisms of mRNA-LNP instability, this review provides an update on the different approaches that are currently explored to improve mRNA-LNP thermostability, encompassing mRNA sequence optimization, nucleotide modification and mRNA-LNP design strategies as well as formulation process optimization. Alternative approaches for mRNA-LNP stabilization such as lyophilization, dual vial formulations and the replacement of water with deep eutectic solvents in the mRNA-LNP process and products are also discussed.

EXPERT OPINION: Achieving robust thermostability of mRNA vaccines will require a multifactorial optimization strategy, integrating advances in sequence engineering, novel formulation designs, buffer composition, excipient selection and manufacturing processes.

RevDate: 2025-12-02
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Iseme-Ondiek R, Ogero M, Odhiambo R, et al (2025)

Pre- and during -COVID-19 pandemic mortality trends and drivers in rural, coastal Kenya: findings from the Kaloleni-Rabai Health and Demographic Surveillance System.

Population health metrics, 23(Suppl 2):69.

BACKGROUND: There is contradicting information regarding the effect of COVID-19 on mortality in African settings. Knowledge of the complete direct and indirect burden of COVID-19 on mortality is heavily reliant on the availability of a population-based surveillance system. Here we provide robust data on the effect of COVID-19 on mortality trends in a rural, coastal, Kenyan community.

METHODS: A historical cohort study using data from the Kaloleni Rabai Health and Demographic Surveillance System was conducted with special focus on two discernible time periods representing the pre-COVID-19 (2018-2019) and COVID-19 (2020-2021) periods. Mortality rates were estimated as the total number of deaths divided by the person-time (years) at risk, accounting for attrition, and calculated separately for the two periods. A cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the impact of COVID-19 on mortality.

RESULTS: 1191 deaths occurred between 2018 and 2021. There was no significant change in overall mortality rates between pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods (3.7 and 3.6 per 1000 person years at risk respectively, p = 0.74). Older age was significantly associated with mortality (a_HR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.05-1.06; p < 0.001). However, an interaction term between age and time-period appeared to reverse this association (a_HR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.99-1.00; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that although overall COVID-19 did not directly impact mortality rates within this rural population, the onset of the pandemic did appear to reverse and/or attenuate the impact of several risk factors on mortality. It is possible that COVID-19 brought health and wellness into sharp focus, making people more vigilant about their health, hygiene and associated preventive measures.

RevDate: 2025-12-02

Alsaikhan F, B Farhood (2025)

Phytochemical-Based Immunomodulation: A Promising Therapeutic Approach for Viral Infections.

Phytotherapy research : PTR [Epub ahead of print].

Viral diseases, whether pandemic, endemic, or epidemic, are a leading cause of global mortality and disability. Consequently, developing effective viral inhibitors is a critical public health priority. Beyond antiviral drugs, a promising therapeutic strategy involves using immunomodulators, which are antiviral agents that enhance the host's immune system against infection. Phytochemicals (PCHs) derived from plants exhibit diverse bioactive properties, including significant antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Notably, PCHs have attracted considerable attention due to their broad-spectrum inhibitory actions against numerous viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, dengue virus, hepatitis viruses, and herpes viruses. Recent research has shown how PCHs may target specific signaling pathways implicated in a cytokine storm, a potentially fatal clinical syndrome characterized by an excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cell activation. Numerous studies have investigated the immunomodulatory effects of PCHs on immune function, specifically their ability to regulate key cellular and molecular interactions within the immune system. Additionally, by modulating host immunity, PCHs can enhance the antiviral response. Furthermore, these substances interfere with complex cellular signaling networks, emphasizing their efficacy in preventing viral infections. This review examines the significant and advanced mechanisms PCHs influence immune function during viral illnesses. We subsequently evaluate the potential applications of PCHs as immunomodulatory agents for treating viral infections and discuss their current clinical limitations.

RevDate: 2025-12-02

Ben-Shoshan D, Rodriguez-Imbarlina M, Singer A, et al (2025)

Transforming Access to Asthma Care in Underserved Communities- A Scoping Review.

International archives of allergy and immunology pii:000549580 [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: Asthma is a complex chronic illness with significant morbidity and costs that can be prevented by effective management. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced large-scale changes in healthcare delivery from in-person, to virtual delivery, providing the opportunity to explore telemedicine and asthma management. We aimed to conduct a scoping review on telemedicine and asthma management and accessibility to treatment in underserved population groups.

METHODS: We performed a scoping review per the Arksey and O'Malley framework. Search terms included asthma, telehealth, telemedicine, virtual care. Searches were performed on four databases (OVID Medline; CINAHL; World of Science; Embase) in publications from 2010 onward, followed by double-blinded, full-text screening using Covidence.

RESULTS: Our initial search yielded 811 articles, of which after de-duplication and abstract screening, 171 articles remained. We adjusted our inclusion criteria to include articles which discussed asthma telemedicine accessibility only in underserved/vulnerable patient cohorts. Based on these articles, we stratified results into main population categories. These categories were found to be "rural communities" (n=3); "lower-income rural communities" (n=2); "non-rural populations, lower-income" (n=1); "Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC) patient populations "(n=4); "English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) patients" (n=1). Each article was placed in its own, respective category and was not repeated in more than one category. Most articles (n=9, 69%) reported a positive association between telehealth use however with reported barriers such as the "digital divide" (n=3, 21%).

CONCLUSION: While telemedicine may have a positive effect on asthma care, inaccessibility continues to persist as barriers are not fully bridged by telemedicine.

RevDate: 2025-12-02
CmpDate: 2025-12-02

Powis M, Ali A, Salmini J, et al (2025)

Virtual Care, What Are We Measuring and What Should We Measure? Scoping Review of Reviews.

Journal of medical Internet research, 27:e65312 pii:v27i1e65312.

BACKGROUND: Virtual care is here to stay; however, there remains no comprehensive measurement framework to guide evaluation of its impacts, to inform policy decisions, and to support optimization of practice.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to conduct a scoping review of reviews to synthesize measures related to virtual care evaluation across clinical conditions and contexts to identify gaps in current evaluation measures and to inform the development of recommendations for future work.

METHODS: Citations published from 2015 to 2023 were retrieved from MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, Emcare, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science using search terms grouped by key concepts (virtual care and evaluation or quality measurement). Measures were defined as any quantitative or qualitative evaluation of performance or impact of virtual care on processes, outcomes, or systems. Articles were excluded if they were not a literature review (eg, primary results, commentaries, letters, protocols), dealt exclusively with pediatric populations, were published in a language other than English, or were abstracts only. Measures from retained articles (1233) were thematically grouped against the Proctor Implementation Research Outcomes framework. The study was reported according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline extension for scoping reviews.

RESULTS: There has been substantial growth in the virtual care literature, particularly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of articles (900/1233, 73.0%) evaluated client outcomes, including satisfaction with virtual care, usability or functionality of platforms, or clinical outcomes. Relative to the other domains of the Proctor framework, implementation measures were poorly defined, and many of the measures were proxy rather than direct measures. Despite the potential impacts of virtual care on health equity, most studies examining health equity were purely qualitative. Measures of safety, privacy, and security of virtual care were sparse and poorly defined. Caregivers play an important role in facilitating virtual visits and providing informal technical support; however, few studies examined implementation or satisfaction with virtual care from the perspective of caregivers. Additionally, clinician experience and acceptance of virtual care have implications for availability and adoption; however, relative to patients, few articles examined this perspective.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights gaps in current evaluations of virtual care. Work is needed to improve the quality and standardization of virtual care evaluation to ensure reproducibility, generalizability, and comparability of findings. Additionally, compliance with existing measure definitions and conventions should extend to virtual care. Finally, additional theoretical work is needed to standardize and conceptually frame future virtual care evaluations. Future studies should include both the caregiver and clinician as unique perspectives in evaluations and should embed systematic evaluations of the impact of social determinants of health on virtual care access, adoption, and perceptions of care.

RevDate: 2025-12-01

Li MQC, Wang S, Lin SR, et al (2025)

Advantages and Limitations of AlphaFold in Structural Biology: Insights from Recent Studies.

The protein journal [Epub ahead of print].

Over the past three years, AlphaFold-a deep learning-based protein structure prediction system-has transformed structural biology by providing near-experimental accuracy models directly from amino acid sequences. This narrative review synthesizes applications reported in the 2022-2025 literature across human, microbial, and viral systems, drawing on peer-reviewed studies as our data source. Representative examples include modeling of SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid proteins in virology, assisting cryo-EM interpretation of bacterial ribosomal and membrane-protein complexes in microbiology, and refining conformational hypotheses for human GPCRs in biomedicine. Across these cases, AlphaFold predictions have complemented experimental workflows by accelerating hypothesis generation, improving model fitting within ambiguous density regions (poorly resolved areas of cryo-EM maps), and guiding mutagenesis strategies to probe dynamic conformational states. We also summarize recent method extensions: AlphaFold-Multimer improves multi-chain complex assembly prediction, while molecular dynamics (MD) simulations augment AlphaFold's static models by sampling conformational flexibility and testing stability. Despite these advances, important limitations remain-particularly for intrinsically disordered regions, protein-ligand and protein-cofactor interactions, and very large or transient assemblies-and current community benchmarks indicate that approximately one-third of residues may lack atomistic precision, underscoring uncertainty in flexible or modified segments. Framed within a clear chronological window and evidence base, our analysis highlights both the practical impact and the remaining challenges of integrating AlphaFold with experiment, outlining priorities where further methodological innovation and orthogonal validation are needed.

RevDate: 2025-12-01

Soumare A, Kapfer T, Botrel T, et al (2025)

Systemic Corticosteroids, Mortality, and Infections in Pneumonia and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Annals of internal medicine [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: The benefit-risk profile of systemic corticosteroids in non-COVID-19 pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains debated.

PURPOSE: To assess corticosteroid effects on mortality and infection-related complications in adults with severe pneumonia or ARDS.

DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform through September 2025.

STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled trials comparing systemic corticosteroids with placebo and usual care. Primary analysis: severe pneumonia or ARDS with corticosteroids 3 mg/kg[-1] of body weight per day[-1] or less (prednisone-equivalent) for 15 days or less, initiated within 7 days.

DATA EXTRACTION: Paired reviewers; consensus for disagreements.

DATA SYNTHESIS: From 16 831 screened records, 20 studies (15 severe pneumonia, 5 ARDS) including 3459 participants met criteria. Low-dose, short-course corticosteroids probably reduce short-term mortality in severe pneumonia (15 studies, 2445 participants; risk ratio [RR], 0.73 [95% CI, 0.57 to 0.93]; I [2 ]= 14%; moderate certainty) and ARDS (5 studies, 1014 participants; RR, 0.77 [CI, 0.61 to 0.99]; I [2 ]= 23%; moderate certainty). Corticosteroids may reduce secondary shock in severe pneumonia (9 studies, 1690 participants; RR, 0.49 [CI, 0.26 to 0.92]; I [2 ]= 55%; low certainty). They probably result in little to no difference in hospital-acquired infections (severe pneumonia: 7 studies, 1665 participants; RR, 0.99 [CI, 0.82 to 1.20]; I [2 ]= 0%; moderate certainty; ARDS: 4 studies, 677 participants; RR, 0.97 [CI, 0.59 to 1.59]; I [2 ]= 0%; low certainty) or secondary pneumonia (severe pneumonia: 4 studies, 1011 participants; RR, 0.96 [CI, 0.66 to 1.39]; I [2 ]= 0%; ARDS: 4 studies, 677 participants; RR, 0.88 [CI, 0.43 to 1.79]; I [2 ]= 0%; both low certainty). Evidence is very uncertain for catheter-related and bloodstream infections. Long-term mortality evidence is very uncertain for severe pneumonia.

LIMITATION: Heterogeneous pneumonia severity classification limiting subgroup precision.

CONCLUSION: In severe pneumonia and ARDS, adjunct corticosteroids probably reduce short-term mortality. In severe pneumonia, they may reduce secondary shock. In both conditions, corticosteroids may have little or no effect on hospital-acquired infections.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: None. (PROSPERO: CRD42024536301).

RevDate: 2025-12-02
CmpDate: 2025-12-01

Malagón-Rojas J, K Chen (2025)

Health effects of wildfire PM2.5 in Latin American cities: A rapid systematic review and comparative synthesis.

Biomedica : revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud, 45(Sp. 2):41-55.

INTRODUCTION: Wildfire activity is intensifying in Latin America due to climate and land-use changes, but the health impacts of wildfire-derived PM2.5 in urban areas remain poorly quantified and recognized.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the evidence on wildfire-related PM2.5 and its association with mortality and morbidity in Latin American cities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a rapid systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines, using data from PubMed, Scopus, and Bireme. One reviewer independently screened 163 articles and extracted data from 14 eligible studies. A risk of bias assessment was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS: Most studies were conducted in Brazil (n = 12) and used time-series or modelling designs to estimate health risks. Wildfire-specific PM2.5 exposure was associated with allcause, cardiovascular, and respiratory mortality. Reported effect estimates ranged from 1.7 to 7.7% increases in risk per 10 μg/m³ of exposure. Other studies assessed preterm birth, COVID-19 outcomes, and site-specific cancers. While two studies provided harmonized RR estimates for all-cause mortality, high heterogeneity and methodological differences prevented formal meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION: Wildfire smoke contributes measurably to premature mortality in Latin America, but current evidence is unevenly distributed across regions, time periods, and population subgroups. Studies rarely capture the disproportionate risks faced by indigenous and rural communities or the intraurban disparities linked to poverty and geography. Future research should focus on the health burden of morbidity linked to wildfire PM2.5.

RevDate: 2025-12-01

Vargas-Zambrano JC, Abrudan S, D Macina (2025)

Understanding the Epidemiology and Contributing Factors of Post-COVID-19 Pertussis Outbreaks: A Narrative Review.

Infectious diseases and therapy [Epub ahead of print].

Pertussis or whooping cough, caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Over the past century, whole-cell pertussis (wP) and acellular pertussis (aP) vaccines were developed and widely adopted, leading to a substantial reduction in the number of pertussis cases. Currently, various strategies are employed to protect different segments of the population, including primary immunization, toddler and school-age boosters, adult boosters, and vaccination in pregnancy (ViP). Nonetheless, pertussis remains a global health challenge with periodic outbreaks occurring every 2-5 years. The non-pharmacological measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a drastic reduction in the circulation of B. pertussis. However, post-pandemic, there has been a resurgence in pertussis cases. This review aims to explore the post-pandemic global pertussis outbreaks and identify underlying trends to gain insights into the potential contributing factors. As of June 2025, pertussis outbreaks with diverse epidemiological patterns have been reported in at least 42 countries, including 30 aP and 12 wP vaccine-using countries. Some common observations among these countries include low infant immunization rates and an absence of vaccination programs for specific populations such as school-aged children, adults, and pregnant individuals. Additionally, in countries with extensive immunization schedules and high vaccination uptake, outbreaks have occurred in regions with low vaccination coverage rates (VCRs). Multiple interrelated factors may have contributed to the post-pandemic pertussis outbreaks, such as the cyclic epidemiology of pertussis, low VCR, waning vaccine-derived immunity, low uptake of boosters, and lack of lifelong protection through regular boosters. To effectively mitigate the incidence of pertussis outbreaks, it is crucial to administer regular booster vaccinations throughout an individual's lifetime, with particular emphasis on at-risk populations and pregnant individuals. A Graphical Abstract is available for this article.

RevDate: 2025-12-01

Jing S, Meng H, Dong C, et al (2025)

Therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of isorhamnetin against pulmonary diseases.

Inflammopharmacology [Epub ahead of print].

Pulmonary diseases are still a serious threat to human health today, particularly in light of the recent rise of novel viruses such as SARS, influenza A, and COVID-19, which have made the situation even more dire by worsening the disease's effects on global public health. Isorhamnetin (ISO), as the active component of many medicinal plants and preparations, exhibits good antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor effects. ISO has been proven to have both preventive and treatment efficacy against pulmonary diseases. This review summarizes the effects of ISO in different pulmonary diseases, including COVID-19, pneumonia, acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome, lung cancer, asthma, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and pulmonary fibrosis, highlighting its specific molecular mechanisms against various pulmonary diseases, which is helpful for providing new perspectives on the preclinical trial and clinical application of ISO.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-01

Issa M, Lagare A, Bachir GAM, et al (2025)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Epidemiology During and After Covid-19 Pandemic in Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Health science reports, 8(12):e71583.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major agent of acute respiratory infections in children and the elderly. RSV epidemiology has been changed by the since Covid-19 pandemic and this review aimed to assess the extent of this change in Africa.

METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, Global Health, Web of Science, and Africa Index Medicus for studies reporting RSV epidemiology during and after the pandemic. We assessed heterogeneity using the I² statistic and evaluated study quality with the Hoy et al. checklist for prevalence studies. Publication bias was assessed with the Egger test. Pooled estimates of prevalence and incidence were calculated using a random-effects model. Analyses were stratified by pandemic era.

RESULTS: Nineteen studies from 12 African countries, including 53,550 patients, met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of RSV infection was 13.0% (95% CI 9.5-17.1), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 99.2% [99.1-99.3]). The Egger test showed no evidence of publication bias (p = 0.745). Prevalence was highest in children (29.8% [18.8-42.1]) compared with all-age populations (5.9%; p < 0.001), and in hospitalized patients compared with outpatients (21.3% vs. 11.3%; p < 0.001). In the post-pandemic period, prevalence rose significantly to 30.6% (12.4-52.5), compared with 8.8% (3.7-15.7) during the pandemic (p = 0.071). The overall incidence of RSV infection was 3.0 per 1000 (1.8-4.2) person-year.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review highlights a marked resurgence of RSV in Africa following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, particularly among children. These findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened RSV surveillance, targeted prevention strategies, and expanded access to new vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Alfieri L, Mariotti I, F Rossi (2025)

The twin transition and flexible work arrangements: A systematic literature review.

Journal of environmental management, 395:127988.

The main idea behind the green and digital transition (twin transition) is to use technology to develop more efficient and productive systems, provide remote access to employment opportunities (Flexible Working Arrangements-FWAs), and broaden the structure of the labour market, while encouraging more sustainable production, workplaces, and society at large. Within this context, the paper systematically reviews literature on the interaction between FWAs and the twin transition (digital and green) using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework, and paying special attention to their implications for the environment, society, and urban areas. This review fills a gap in the literature, showing how a growing but still limited number of scholars are approaching the topic. Most of the papers explore the impact of FWAs on energy use and the need for targeted policies to ensure a just transition that accounts for the social impact. Furthermore, the selected manuscripts place significant emphasis on the restructuring process of business models, on the complex and non-trivial relationship between digital tools and FWAs, and on the effects of work-life balance on employees. Many studies stem from the post-pandemic period, highlighting the Covid-19 pandemic as a catalyst for change. These findings underscore the emerging importance of FWAs in green and digital transition for a more resilient future.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Scott J, Abers MS, Marwah HK, et al (2025)

Updated Evidence for Covid-19, RSV, and Influenza Vaccines for 2025-2026.

The New England journal of medicine, 393(22):2221-2242.

BACKGROUND: Changes in the vaccine advisory process in the United States have disrupted immunization guidance, which reinforces the need for independent evidence review to inform decisions regarding immunization for respiratory viruses during the 2025-2026 season.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review of U.S.-licensed immunizations against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza. We searched databases on PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science for updates of the most recent review by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Evidence-to-Recommendations for each disease, which was performed during the 2023-2024 period. Outcomes included vaccine efficacy and effectiveness against hospitalization, other clinical end points, and safety.

RESULTS: Of 17,263 identified references, 511 studies met the inclusion criteria. Covid-19 mRNA vaccines against the XBB.1.5 subvariant had pooled vaccine effectiveness against hospitalization of 46% (95% confidence interval [CI], 34 to 55; from cohort studies) and 50% (95% CI, 43 to 57; from case-control studies) among adults and 37% (95% CI, 29 to 44) among immunocompromised adults. In a case-control study, vaccines against the KP.2 subvariant showed an effectiveness of 68% (95% CI, 42 to 82). Maternal RSV vaccination (for infant protection), nirsevimab for infants, and RSV vaccines in adults who were 60 years of age or older showed vaccine effectiveness of 68% or more against hospitalization. Influenza vaccination had a pooled vaccine effectiveness of 48% (95% CI, 39 to 55) in adults between the ages of 18 and 64 years and 67% (95% CI, 58 to 75) in children against hospitalization. Safety profiles were consistent with previous evaluations. The diagnosis of myocarditis associated with Covid-19 vaccines occurred at rates of 1.3 to 3.1 per 100,000 doses in male adolescents, with lower risk associated with longer dosing intervals. The RSVpreF vaccine was associated with 18.2 excess cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome per million doses in older adults; a significant association with preterm birth was not observed when the vaccine was administered at 32 to 36 weeks' gestation.

CONCLUSIONS: Ongoing peer-reviewed evidence supports the safety and effectiveness of immunizations against Covid-19, RSV, and influenza during the 2025-2026 season. (Funded by the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy and the Alumbra Innovations Foundation.).

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Sim JY, Chung JH, Oh JY, et al (2024)

[Global Measles Outbreaks].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 17(34):1432-1448.

In 2023, as public health and social measures due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) eased and overseas travel resumed, measles cases increased rapidly worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 320,000 measles cases were reported worldwide in 2023, 1.8 times higher than approximately 170,000 cases in 2022. Even in countries verified as measles-eradication countries, community epidemics have been observed mainly among unvaccinated and incompletely vaccinated people. The WHO indicated that low vaccination rates and increased international travel are the main causes of the rapid increase in measles outbreaks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination services were suspended or delayed in many countries, significantly decreasing vaccination rates. Simultaneously, as travel restrictions eased, population movement increased worldwide, creating an environment that made it easy for the measles virus to spread to various regions. The WHO has set the goal of eradicating measles by 2030, and important strategies include maintaining and strengthening vaccination rates, strengthening quarantine, patient surveillance, public health education, and information sharing through international cooperation. As of 2022, the Republic of Korea has maintained a relatively high vaccination rate by meeting the standards for maintaining herd immunity of over 95% recommended by the WHO, with a secondary vaccination rate of 95%. However, there is a risk of transmission through certain age groups and overseas inflows where vaccination rates are relatively low. Therefore, in areas with an active measles outbreak, it is essential to be vaccinated before traveling to areas where outbreaks are increasing, and careful monitoring is necessary to prevent domestic inflow.

RevDate: 2025-12-03
CmpDate: 2025-12-03

Ahn E, Baek SK, Lee HJ, et al (2024)

[History and Achievement of Public Health Weekly Report].

Jugan geon-gang gwa jilbyeong, 17(18):772-786.

Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has been publishing Public Health Weekly Report (PHWR) to provide expeditiously and accurately scientific information related to health and disease. Accordingly, PHWR has been compiling and providing statistics related to communicable and non-communicable diseases. Additionally, PHWR has been providing weekly data and analyses regarding coronavirus disease 2019 from the early stage of the pandemic, displaying excellent capabilities for prevention and treatment to abroad. In the future, PHWR will be structured as an academic journal and will continue to serve as a journal that provides the fastest and easiest way to understand health and disease information based on timeliness and diversity.

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ESP Quick Facts

ESP Origins

In the early 1990's, Robert Robbins was a faculty member at Johns Hopkins, where he directed the informatics core of GDB — the human gene-mapping database of the international human genome project. To share papers with colleagues around the world, he set up a small paper-sharing section on his personal web page. This small project evolved into The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.

ESP Support

In 1995, Robbins became the VP/IT of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA. Soon after arriving in Seattle, Robbins secured funding, through the ELSI component of the US Human Genome Project, to create the original ESP.ORG web site, with the formal goal of providing free, world-wide access to the literature of classical genetics.

ESP Rationale

Although the methods of molecular biology can seem almost magical to the uninitiated, the original techniques of classical genetics are readily appreciated by one and all: cross individuals that differ in some inherited trait, collect all of the progeny, score their attributes, and propose mechanisms to explain the patterns of inheritance observed.

ESP Goal

In reading the early works of classical genetics, one is drawn, almost inexorably, into ever more complex models, until molecular explanations begin to seem both necessary and natural. At that point, the tools for understanding genome research are at hand. Assisting readers reach this point was the original goal of The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.

ESP Usage

Usage of the site grew rapidly and has remained high. Faculty began to use the site for their assigned readings. Other on-line publishers, ranging from The New York Times to Nature referenced ESP materials in their own publications. Nobel laureates (e.g., Joshua Lederberg) regularly used the site and even wrote to suggest changes and improvements.

ESP Content

When the site began, no journals were making their early content available in digital format. As a result, ESP was obliged to digitize classic literature before it could be made available. For many important papers — such as Mendel's original paper or the first genetic map — ESP had to produce entirely new typeset versions of the works, if they were to be available in a high-quality format.

ESP Help

Early support from the DOE component of the Human Genome Project was critically important for getting the ESP project on a firm foundation. Since that funding ended (nearly 20 years ago), the project has been operated as a purely volunteer effort. Anyone wishing to assist in these efforts should send an email to Robbins.

ESP Plans

With the development of methods for adding typeset side notes to PDF files, the ESP project now plans to add annotated versions of some classical papers to its holdings. We also plan to add new reference and pedagogical material. We have already started providing regularly updated, comprehensive bibliographies to the ESP.ORG site.

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With the world now in the middle of a new and rapidly spreading pandemic, now is the time to read this book, originally published in 2012, that describes animal infections and the next human pandemic (that's actually the book's subtitle). You would be hard pressed to find a more relevant explanation of how this got started and why there will be more after this one. R. Robbins

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Papers in Classical Genetics

The ESP began as an effort to share a handful of key papers from the early days of classical genetics. Now the collection has grown to include hundreds of papers, in full-text format.

Digital Books

Along with papers on classical genetics, ESP offers a collection of full-text digital books, including many works by Darwin and even a collection of poetry — Chicago Poems by Carl Sandburg.

Timelines

ESP now offers a large collection of user-selected side-by-side timelines (e.g., all science vs. all other categories, or arts and culture vs. world history), designed to provide a comparative context for appreciating world events.

Biographies

Biographical information about many key scientists (e.g., Walter Sutton).

Selected Bibliographies

Bibliographies on several topics of potential interest to the ESP community are automatically maintained and generated on the ESP site.

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