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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 04 Oct 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.
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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®)
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Mobile Technologies in Infectious Disease Monitoring: Benefits and limitations.
Przeglad epidemiologiczny, 79(2):263-279.
Infectious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Zika virus, malaria, and Ebola, pose a serious threat to public health worldwide. Their impact on society can be significant, especially in the context of globalization, migration, and climate change. These diseases can spread quickly and efficiently, which requires the use of modern monitoring and control tools. In this context, mobile technologies can play a crucial role in preventing and controlling the spread of infectious diseases. This article will discuss both the benefits and limitations of using mobile technologies in monitoring and combating infectious diseases, such as contact-tracing apps, systems for collecting epidemiological data, and platforms supporting health education.
Additional Links: PMID-41042962
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41042962,
year = {2025},
author = {BaraĆski, J},
title = {Mobile Technologies in Infectious Disease Monitoring: Benefits and limitations.},
journal = {Przeglad epidemiologiczny},
volume = {79},
number = {2},
pages = {263-279},
doi = {10.32394/pe/207617},
pmid = {41042962},
issn = {0033-2100},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Mobile Applications ; *Communicable Disease Control/methods ; Zika Virus Infection/prevention & control ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Malaria/prevention & control ; Telemedicine ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Contact Tracing/methods ; },
abstract = {Infectious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Zika virus, malaria, and Ebola, pose a serious threat to public health worldwide. Their impact on society can be significant, especially in the context of globalization, migration, and climate change. These diseases can spread quickly and efficiently, which requires the use of modern monitoring and control tools. In this context, mobile technologies can play a crucial role in preventing and controlling the spread of infectious diseases. This article will discuss both the benefits and limitations of using mobile technologies in monitoring and combating infectious diseases, such as contact-tracing apps, systems for collecting epidemiological data, and platforms supporting health education.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Mobile Applications
*Communicable Disease Control/methods
Zika Virus Infection/prevention & control
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
Pandemics
Malaria/prevention & control
Telemedicine
SARS-CoV-2
Contact Tracing/methods
RevDate: 2025-10-03
Evaluating the Implementation of Public Health Strategies to Address COVID-19 Disparities in a Community Setting: A Qualitative Study Using the RE-AIM Framework.
Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.) [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Health disparities, particularly among racial and ethnic minority populations, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic due to factors like social determinants of health, vaccine hesitancy, and pre-existing health conditions. Local government leaders within an urban city received federal funds to address these disparities by improving health literacy and engaging in culturally responsive outreach and education among Black and Latinx communities within a mid-sized city in the southeastern United States.
OBJECTIVE: To identify facilitators and barriers to implementing public health strategies aimed at addressing COVID-19 health disparities in a community guided by the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework.
DESIGN: The research team conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews via telephone, Zoom, or in person between March 20th and April 12th, 2024.
PARTICIPANTS/SETTING: Fifteen participants, including local governmental health office staff (e.g., nurse navigators, administrative staff) and employees from community center partner sites, were included in the study.
ANALYSIS: Two coders applied both a priori codes guided by the RE-AIM framework and data-driven inductive codes to transcripts in NVivo 14. A final interrater reliability measurement, Cohen's kappa coefficient (k = 0.74), was calculated, indicating a moderate level of agreement between coders. NVivo 14 data visualization tools (e.g., coding matrices) were used to inform thematic content analysis.
RESULTS: Themes were identified within each RE-AIM dimension, highlighting various facilitators and barriers to implementing the selected public health strategies. Working in synergy with community center staff and other community partners to create tailored services and resources was vital for successful implementation. Transparency and timely communication, additional full-time program implementers (i.e., nurse navigators), and sustainable funding sources were identified as key elements to enhance effective implementation.
CONCLUSIONS: Insights from the local governmental health office and community center staff's experiences in this study highlight recommendations for effective implementation of locally tailored public health strategies to address COVID-19 health disparities in similar community-based settings. Future research should capture the perceptions and experiences of community members to better understand acceptability, accessibility, and utilization in similar initiatives.
Additional Links: PMID-41042687
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41042687,
year = {2025},
author = {McElrone, M and Holden, E and Brown, C and Ballew, J},
title = {Evaluating the Implementation of Public Health Strategies to Address COVID-19 Disparities in a Community Setting: A Qualitative Study Using the RE-AIM Framework.},
journal = {Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/phn.70021},
pmid = {41042687},
issn = {1525-1446},
support = {//Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health/ ; #1CPIMP211293-01-00//Office of Minority Health (OMH)/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health disparities, particularly among racial and ethnic minority populations, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic due to factors like social determinants of health, vaccine hesitancy, and pre-existing health conditions. Local government leaders within an urban city received federal funds to address these disparities by improving health literacy and engaging in culturally responsive outreach and education among Black and Latinx communities within a mid-sized city in the southeastern United States.
OBJECTIVE: To identify facilitators and barriers to implementing public health strategies aimed at addressing COVID-19 health disparities in a community guided by the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework.
DESIGN: The research team conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews via telephone, Zoom, or in person between March 20th and April 12th, 2024.
PARTICIPANTS/SETTING: Fifteen participants, including local governmental health office staff (e.g., nurse navigators, administrative staff) and employees from community center partner sites, were included in the study.
ANALYSIS: Two coders applied both a priori codes guided by the RE-AIM framework and data-driven inductive codes to transcripts in NVivo 14. A final interrater reliability measurement, Cohen's kappa coefficient (k = 0.74), was calculated, indicating a moderate level of agreement between coders. NVivo 14 data visualization tools (e.g., coding matrices) were used to inform thematic content analysis.
RESULTS: Themes were identified within each RE-AIM dimension, highlighting various facilitators and barriers to implementing the selected public health strategies. Working in synergy with community center staff and other community partners to create tailored services and resources was vital for successful implementation. Transparency and timely communication, additional full-time program implementers (i.e., nurse navigators), and sustainable funding sources were identified as key elements to enhance effective implementation.
CONCLUSIONS: Insights from the local governmental health office and community center staff's experiences in this study highlight recommendations for effective implementation of locally tailored public health strategies to address COVID-19 health disparities in similar community-based settings. Future research should capture the perceptions and experiences of community members to better understand acceptability, accessibility, and utilization in similar initiatives.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Real-World Breast Cancer Mobile Applications for Patients in the Treatment Stage: A Post-Pandemic Scoping Review.
Studies in health technology and informatics, 332:93-97.
Many current digital health tools are not designed to support the complex needs of breast cancer patients undergoing active treatment, even though they frequently endure severe physical and emotional burdens. This gap is particularly important given the growing dependence on mobile health (mHealth) technologies, which have been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This scoping review aims to identify mobile health applications for breast cancer published since 2020, and to analyze their core functionalities, target populations, and reported limitations. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we included primary studies describing real-world use beyond prototype or pilot phases. Five unique apps were identified, most offering lifestyle coaching, symptom tracking, or psycho-oncological support. This review serves as an initial step toward understanding the current digital landscape, with the goal of informing the development of a new application grounded in real patient needs and designed through participatory methodologies.
Additional Links: PMID-41041753
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41041753,
year = {2025},
author = {Theofilou, PE and Bonotis, P and Angelidis, P},
title = {Real-World Breast Cancer Mobile Applications for Patients in the Treatment Stage: A Post-Pandemic Scoping Review.},
journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics},
volume = {332},
number = {},
pages = {93-97},
doi = {10.3233/SHTI251503},
pmid = {41041753},
issn = {1879-8365},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mobile Applications ; *Breast Neoplasms/therapy ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Female ; *Telemedicine ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Many current digital health tools are not designed to support the complex needs of breast cancer patients undergoing active treatment, even though they frequently endure severe physical and emotional burdens. This gap is particularly important given the growing dependence on mobile health (mHealth) technologies, which have been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This scoping review aims to identify mobile health applications for breast cancer published since 2020, and to analyze their core functionalities, target populations, and reported limitations. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we included primary studies describing real-world use beyond prototype or pilot phases. Five unique apps were identified, most offering lifestyle coaching, symptom tracking, or psycho-oncological support. This review serves as an initial step toward understanding the current digital landscape, with the goal of informing the development of a new application grounded in real patient needs and designed through participatory methodologies.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Mobile Applications
*Breast Neoplasms/therapy
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Female
*Telemedicine
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
The deadly triple M (mistrust, misinformation, and missed opportunities): understanding Romania's COVID-19 vaccination campaign and its lasting impact on public health.
Frontiers in public health, 13:1631799.
Romania's COVID-19 vaccination campaign presents a compelling case study on the intersection of public health policy, societal dynamics, and political influences in pandemic response. Despite an initially promising rollout, Romania ultimately achieved one of the lowest vaccination rates in the European Union, with severe consequences during the subsequent pandemic waves. This review examines the key factors contributing to the campaign's shortcomings, including pre-existing vaccine hesitancy, widespread misinformation, inadequate governmental communication strategies, and the politicisation of public health efforts. We explore the deep-seated mistrust in governmental institutions, exacerbated by restrictive measures implemented without adequate public engagement, as well as the influential role of religious communities and the rise of populist political forces that actively opposed vaccination efforts. Additionally, we discuss the impact of media sensationalism, conspiracy theories, and the failure to regulate anti-vaccine rhetoric within the medical profession. While logistical and infrastructural challenges were largely addressed, the inability to effectively engage key societal stakeholders led to lagging of vaccine uptake. The consequences of this failure extended beyond COVID-19, contributing to a severe measles outbreak in 2023, which underscored the long-term deleterious effects of vaccine hesitancy. Drawing from Romania's experience, we highlight critical lessons for future public health campaigns, emphasising the need for trust-building initiatives, targeted misinformation countermeasures, stronger community engagement, and enhanced collaboration with religious and cultural institutions. By addressing these challenges, countries worldwide can strengthen their public health frameworks and improve the resilience of their immunisation programmes in the face of future crises.
Additional Links: PMID-41041361
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41041361,
year = {2025},
author = {Dascalu, S and Raiu, CV and Olteanu, E and Comanici, AV and Comanici, MM and Toma, TP and Robu, BI and Mihailov, R and Mina-Raiu, L and Dumitra, GG and Azoicai, D and Popovici, ED and Apetrei, C},
title = {The deadly triple M (mistrust, misinformation, and missed opportunities): understanding Romania's COVID-19 vaccination campaign and its lasting impact on public health.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1631799},
pmid = {41041361},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Romania/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Public Health ; *Communication ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; *Trust ; *Immunization Programs ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Politics ; *Vaccination ; Health Policy ; },
abstract = {Romania's COVID-19 vaccination campaign presents a compelling case study on the intersection of public health policy, societal dynamics, and political influences in pandemic response. Despite an initially promising rollout, Romania ultimately achieved one of the lowest vaccination rates in the European Union, with severe consequences during the subsequent pandemic waves. This review examines the key factors contributing to the campaign's shortcomings, including pre-existing vaccine hesitancy, widespread misinformation, inadequate governmental communication strategies, and the politicisation of public health efforts. We explore the deep-seated mistrust in governmental institutions, exacerbated by restrictive measures implemented without adequate public engagement, as well as the influential role of religious communities and the rise of populist political forces that actively opposed vaccination efforts. Additionally, we discuss the impact of media sensationalism, conspiracy theories, and the failure to regulate anti-vaccine rhetoric within the medical profession. While logistical and infrastructural challenges were largely addressed, the inability to effectively engage key societal stakeholders led to lagging of vaccine uptake. The consequences of this failure extended beyond COVID-19, contributing to a severe measles outbreak in 2023, which underscored the long-term deleterious effects of vaccine hesitancy. Drawing from Romania's experience, we highlight critical lessons for future public health campaigns, emphasising the need for trust-building initiatives, targeted misinformation countermeasures, stronger community engagement, and enhanced collaboration with religious and cultural institutions. By addressing these challenges, countries worldwide can strengthen their public health frameworks and improve the resilience of their immunisation programmes in the face of future crises.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Romania/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Public Health
*Communication
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
*Trust
*Immunization Programs
SARS-CoV-2
Politics
*Vaccination
Health Policy
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Immunogenicity and safety of the booster COVID-19 vaccine among people with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Frontiers in immunology, 16:1668576.
BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and COVID-19 continue to pose significant global public health challenges. Although vaccination is essential for preventing COVID-19 in people with HIV (PWH), evidence on the immunogenicity and safety of booster doses remains limited. This systematic review aimed to assess the immunogenicity and safety of COVID-19 booster vaccination in PWH.
METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Eligible studies included PWH who had received three or more doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
RESULTS: Across 54 included studies, 4,685 of 5,229 PWH achieved seroconversion following a third or subsequent COVID-19 vaccine dose-an improvement over rates observed after the primary vaccine series. In 23 studies comparing 2,284 PWH with 1,813 healthy controls (HC), no significant differences in seroconversion rates were found (p ≥ 0.05). Among PWH, 22 studies reported significantly higher seroconversion rates in individuals with CD4[+] T cell counts >200 cells/mm³ compared to those with counts <200 cells/mm³. Booster vaccination enhanced CD4[+] T cell responses to levels comparable to HC, although CD8[+] T cell responses remained markedly lower. Five studies reported adverse events following booster doses, none of which were classified as serious.
CONCLUSION: COVID-19 booster vaccination is effective in enhancing immune protection and reducing severe disease in PWH. Optimal vaccine dosing is especially important in individuals with low CD4[+] T cell counts. Tailoring booster strategies may improve seroconversion and overall immune response in this population.
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024605151.
Additional Links: PMID-41041302
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41041302,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, Z and Wan, C and Chen, B and Mo, Q and Ju, M and Deng, K and Li, X and Qin, D},
title = {Immunogenicity and safety of the booster COVID-19 vaccine among people with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1668576},
pmid = {41041302},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *HIV Infections/immunology ; *Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; Seroconversion ; Antibodies, Viral/blood ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and COVID-19 continue to pose significant global public health challenges. Although vaccination is essential for preventing COVID-19 in people with HIV (PWH), evidence on the immunogenicity and safety of booster doses remains limited. This systematic review aimed to assess the immunogenicity and safety of COVID-19 booster vaccination in PWH.
METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Eligible studies included PWH who had received three or more doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
RESULTS: Across 54 included studies, 4,685 of 5,229 PWH achieved seroconversion following a third or subsequent COVID-19 vaccine dose-an improvement over rates observed after the primary vaccine series. In 23 studies comparing 2,284 PWH with 1,813 healthy controls (HC), no significant differences in seroconversion rates were found (p ≥ 0.05). Among PWH, 22 studies reported significantly higher seroconversion rates in individuals with CD4[+] T cell counts >200 cells/mm³ compared to those with counts <200 cells/mm³. Booster vaccination enhanced CD4[+] T cell responses to levels comparable to HC, although CD8[+] T cell responses remained markedly lower. Five studies reported adverse events following booster doses, none of which were classified as serious.
CONCLUSION: COVID-19 booster vaccination is effective in enhancing immune protection and reducing severe disease in PWH. Optimal vaccine dosing is especially important in individuals with low CD4[+] T cell counts. Tailoring booster strategies may improve seroconversion and overall immune response in this population.
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024605151.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*HIV Infections/immunology
*Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immunogenicity, Vaccine
Seroconversion
Antibodies, Viral/blood
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Disulfiram as an anti-inflammatory agent: mechanisms, nano-delivery strategies, and applications in non-oncologic diseases.
RSC advances, 15(43):36344-36364.
Disulfiram (DSF), an FDA-approved drug for alcoholism, has recently emerged as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It achieves this by targeting gasdermin D (GSDMD)-mediated pyroptosis, a key driver of inflammatory responses. This review explores the multifaceted anti-inflammatory mechanisms of DSF, including its inhibition of GSDMD pore formation, modulation of the STING pathway, suppression of RIPK1-dependent necroptosis, and disruption of FROUNT-mediated macrophage migration. Despite its promising in vitro efficacy, DSF's clinical application is hindered by its poor solubility, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism. To overcome these limitations, advanced nano-delivery carriers-such as lipid-based nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, metal-organic frameworks, and peptide conjugates-have been developed to enhance targeted delivery, prolong circulation, and reduce off-target effects. These innovations hold significant promise for the treatment of diverse inflammatory diseases, including respiratory disorders (e.g., COVID-19 and acute lung injury), autoimmune conditions (e.g., lupus and graft-versus-host disease), and metabolic ailments (e.g., hepatitis and colitis). While challenges remain in clinical translation, integrating DSF with nanotechnology offers a transformative approach to harnessing its anti-inflammatory properties. This review highlights current advancements, unresolved questions, and future directions for optimizing DSF-based therapies in inflammation management.
Additional Links: PMID-41041288
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41041288,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiang, Q and Jiang, M and Lv, Y and Zhang, X and Wang, S and Zhao, J},
title = {Disulfiram as an anti-inflammatory agent: mechanisms, nano-delivery strategies, and applications in non-oncologic diseases.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {15},
number = {43},
pages = {36344-36364},
pmid = {41041288},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Disulfiram (DSF), an FDA-approved drug for alcoholism, has recently emerged as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It achieves this by targeting gasdermin D (GSDMD)-mediated pyroptosis, a key driver of inflammatory responses. This review explores the multifaceted anti-inflammatory mechanisms of DSF, including its inhibition of GSDMD pore formation, modulation of the STING pathway, suppression of RIPK1-dependent necroptosis, and disruption of FROUNT-mediated macrophage migration. Despite its promising in vitro efficacy, DSF's clinical application is hindered by its poor solubility, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism. To overcome these limitations, advanced nano-delivery carriers-such as lipid-based nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, metal-organic frameworks, and peptide conjugates-have been developed to enhance targeted delivery, prolong circulation, and reduce off-target effects. These innovations hold significant promise for the treatment of diverse inflammatory diseases, including respiratory disorders (e.g., COVID-19 and acute lung injury), autoimmune conditions (e.g., lupus and graft-versus-host disease), and metabolic ailments (e.g., hepatitis and colitis). While challenges remain in clinical translation, integrating DSF with nanotechnology offers a transformative approach to harnessing its anti-inflammatory properties. This review highlights current advancements, unresolved questions, and future directions for optimizing DSF-based therapies in inflammation management.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Effectiveness of pressure swing adsorption oxygen plants: A scoping review in Indian context.
Journal of family medicine and primary care, 14(8):3179-3185.
CONTEXT: Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) is a gas separation technique that separates some gas species from a mixture of gases under pressure based on the species' molecular characteristics and affinity for an adsorbent material. During the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, the need for medical oxygen was critical due to the overwhelming surge in respiratory-related cases. The establishment of PSA plants across the country was a strategic move to ensure a continuous and reliable supply of oxygen to healthcare facilities.
OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to systematically collect and assess evidence regarding the effectiveness of PSA.
DESIGN: A scoping review was carried out using the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist.
STUDY SELECTION: Studies, reports, review articles, and gray literature that addressed the economic viability, ease of operation, overall feasibility, and reliability of PSA plants in the Indian context were particularly considered for inclusion.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: This review aims to assess the effectiveness of PSA technology, focusing on its cost efficiency, user-friendliness, overall feasibility, and reliability. The goal is to offer a clear understanding of the practical implications and outcomes related to the adoption of PSA plants in the Indian context.
RESULTS: Sixty-four relevant records were reviewed and analyzed. After considering all the eligibility criteria 33 records were included. The scoping review revealed the different characteristics of PSA plant. A total of six studies from the reviewed literature collectively state that this advancement marks a significant progress toward establishing a dependable and renewable supply of medical-grade oxygen, eliminating the dependency on external sources, and thereby enhancing hospital security.
CONCLUSION: This review showed that properly maintained, and operated, PSA oxygen plants can be highly effective in providing a reliable source of medical-grade oxygen, especially in higher level of health facility where patient load is more.
Additional Links: PMID-41041226
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41041226,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhardwaj, P and Joshi, NK and Bhati, Y and Goel, AD and Jain, YK and Soni, JK and Singh, P},
title = {Effectiveness of pressure swing adsorption oxygen plants: A scoping review in Indian context.},
journal = {Journal of family medicine and primary care},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {3179-3185},
pmid = {41041226},
issn = {2249-4863},
abstract = {CONTEXT: Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) is a gas separation technique that separates some gas species from a mixture of gases under pressure based on the species' molecular characteristics and affinity for an adsorbent material. During the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, the need for medical oxygen was critical due to the overwhelming surge in respiratory-related cases. The establishment of PSA plants across the country was a strategic move to ensure a continuous and reliable supply of oxygen to healthcare facilities.
OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to systematically collect and assess evidence regarding the effectiveness of PSA.
DESIGN: A scoping review was carried out using the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist.
STUDY SELECTION: Studies, reports, review articles, and gray literature that addressed the economic viability, ease of operation, overall feasibility, and reliability of PSA plants in the Indian context were particularly considered for inclusion.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: This review aims to assess the effectiveness of PSA technology, focusing on its cost efficiency, user-friendliness, overall feasibility, and reliability. The goal is to offer a clear understanding of the practical implications and outcomes related to the adoption of PSA plants in the Indian context.
RESULTS: Sixty-four relevant records were reviewed and analyzed. After considering all the eligibility criteria 33 records were included. The scoping review revealed the different characteristics of PSA plant. A total of six studies from the reviewed literature collectively state that this advancement marks a significant progress toward establishing a dependable and renewable supply of medical-grade oxygen, eliminating the dependency on external sources, and thereby enhancing hospital security.
CONCLUSION: This review showed that properly maintained, and operated, PSA oxygen plants can be highly effective in providing a reliable source of medical-grade oxygen, especially in higher level of health facility where patient load is more.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Multivalent decoy receptor therapeutics to combat viral pandemics and evolution.
Trends in pharmacological sciences, 46(10):935-939.
Viruses are likely to cause future pandemics due to their inherent ability to evolve and spread rapidly, with limited treatment options. Engineered multivalent decoy receptors (EMDRs) offer a broad-spectrum alternative treatment option. We propose and evaluate EMDRs and their delivery methods to guide future efforts toward pandemic preparedness.
Additional Links: PMID-40967971
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40967971,
year = {2025},
author = {Odoom, A and Obeng, EM and Dzuvor, CKO},
title = {Multivalent decoy receptor therapeutics to combat viral pandemics and evolution.},
journal = {Trends in pharmacological sciences},
volume = {46},
number = {10},
pages = {935-939},
doi = {10.1016/j.tips.2025.08.010},
pmid = {40967971},
issn = {1873-3735},
mesh = {Humans ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Animals ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Viruses are likely to cause future pandemics due to their inherent ability to evolve and spread rapidly, with limited treatment options. Engineered multivalent decoy receptors (EMDRs) offer a broad-spectrum alternative treatment option. We propose and evaluate EMDRs and their delivery methods to guide future efforts toward pandemic preparedness.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Pandemics/prevention & control
Animals
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Rare but Severe Cardiovascular Complications of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: A Call for Awareness.
Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology, 86(4):317-320 pii:00005344-990000000-00475.
The extensive use of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccines has played a crucial role in controlling the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, underscoring the remarkable advantages and efficacy of novel vaccine technologies. However, rare but life-threatening cardiovascular complications such as myocarditis, pericarditis, and thrombosis have emerged, predominantly affecting young males after their second vaccine dose. These adverse events highlight the importance of continued pharmacovigilance and transparent communication about potential risks. Because the global epidemiologic context has shifted, now characterized by widespread natural, vaccine-induced, or hybrid immunity, it is important to re-evaluate the risk-benefit ratio of repeated vaccine administration in low-risk individuals. Data regarding severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccines complications are still largely based on the early phases of the pandemic (2020-2021), when population-level immunity was minimal and severe coronavirus disease 2019 outcomes more frequent. Today, such comparisons may no longer be appropriate. Updated real-world evidence is needed to better inform decision making and ensure that public health strategies remain aligned with the contemporary risk landscape.
Additional Links: PMID-40705503
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@article {pmid40705503,
year = {2025},
author = {Marchetta, M and Golino, M and Markley, JD and Abbate, A},
title = {Rare but Severe Cardiovascular Complications of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: A Call for Awareness.},
journal = {Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology},
volume = {86},
number = {4},
pages = {317-320},
doi = {10.1097/FJC.0000000000001740},
pmid = {40705503},
issn = {1533-4023},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/chemically induced/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Risk Assessment ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Male ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {The extensive use of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccines has played a crucial role in controlling the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, underscoring the remarkable advantages and efficacy of novel vaccine technologies. However, rare but life-threatening cardiovascular complications such as myocarditis, pericarditis, and thrombosis have emerged, predominantly affecting young males after their second vaccine dose. These adverse events highlight the importance of continued pharmacovigilance and transparent communication about potential risks. Because the global epidemiologic context has shifted, now characterized by widespread natural, vaccine-induced, or hybrid immunity, it is important to re-evaluate the risk-benefit ratio of repeated vaccine administration in low-risk individuals. Data regarding severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccines complications are still largely based on the early phases of the pandemic (2020-2021), when population-level immunity was minimal and severe coronavirus disease 2019 outcomes more frequent. Today, such comparisons may no longer be appropriate. Updated real-world evidence is needed to better inform decision making and ensure that public health strategies remain aligned with the contemporary risk landscape.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Cardiovascular Diseases/chemically induced/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Risk Assessment
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Male
Risk Factors
RevDate: 2025-10-03
CmpDate: 2025-10-03
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Heart Transplant Recipients and Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Monoclonal Antibodies: Experience, Lessons Learnt, and Future Challenges.
Cardiology in review, 33(6):522-530.
Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs), including heart transplant (HT) recipients, infected with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are at higher risk of hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, or death when compared with general population. Advances in diagnosis and treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have reduced COVID-19-related mortality rates from ~30% in the early pandemic to <3% in 2022 among HT recipients. We performed a retrospective chart review including adult HT recipients at Westchester Medical Center from January 1, 2020 to December 10, 2022, who received anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19, and those who received tixagevimab/cilgavimab for preexposure prophylaxis. Additionally, a comprehensive review of the literature involving SOTRs who received mAbs for COVID-19 was conducted. In this largest single-center study in this population, 42 adult HT recipients received casirivimab/imdevimab (36%), sotrovimab (31%), or bebtelovimab (29%) for treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Among these recipients, no infusion-associated adverse effects, progression of disease, COVID-19-associated hospitalizations, or death were noted. Preexposure prophylaxis with tixagevimab/cilgavimab was given to 63 HT recipients in a dedicated infusion center (40%), inpatient setting (33%), or at time of annual heart biopsy (27%). No immediate adverse events were noted. There were 11 breakthrough infections, all mild. Overall, the data suggests that HT recipients receiving mAbs have reduced rates of hospitalization, need for intensive care unit care, or death. Use of anti-SARS-CoV-2 mAbs in SOTRs is resource intensive and requires a programmatic team approach for optimal administration and to minimize any risk of disparities in their use.
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@article {pmid38334977,
year = {2025},
author = {Kapur, R and Okumura, K and Ohira, S and Isath, A and Gandhi, A and Keller, M and Nog, R and Gass, A and Spielvogel, D and Lansman, S and Dhand, A},
title = {Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Heart Transplant Recipients and Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Monoclonal Antibodies: Experience, Lessons Learnt, and Future Challenges.},
journal = {Cardiology in review},
volume = {33},
number = {6},
pages = {522-530},
doi = {10.1097/CRD.0000000000000640},
pmid = {38334977},
issn = {1538-4683},
mesh = {Humans ; *Heart Transplantation ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Female ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Aged ; Transplant Recipients ; Drug Combinations ; Antibodies, Neutralizing ; },
abstract = {Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs), including heart transplant (HT) recipients, infected with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are at higher risk of hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, or death when compared with general population. Advances in diagnosis and treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have reduced COVID-19-related mortality rates from ~30% in the early pandemic to <3% in 2022 among HT recipients. We performed a retrospective chart review including adult HT recipients at Westchester Medical Center from January 1, 2020 to December 10, 2022, who received anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19, and those who received tixagevimab/cilgavimab for preexposure prophylaxis. Additionally, a comprehensive review of the literature involving SOTRs who received mAbs for COVID-19 was conducted. In this largest single-center study in this population, 42 adult HT recipients received casirivimab/imdevimab (36%), sotrovimab (31%), or bebtelovimab (29%) for treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Among these recipients, no infusion-associated adverse effects, progression of disease, COVID-19-associated hospitalizations, or death were noted. Preexposure prophylaxis with tixagevimab/cilgavimab was given to 63 HT recipients in a dedicated infusion center (40%), inpatient setting (33%), or at time of annual heart biopsy (27%). No immediate adverse events were noted. There were 11 breakthrough infections, all mild. Overall, the data suggests that HT recipients receiving mAbs have reduced rates of hospitalization, need for intensive care unit care, or death. Use of anti-SARS-CoV-2 mAbs in SOTRs is resource intensive and requires a programmatic team approach for optimal administration and to minimize any risk of disparities in their use.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Heart Transplantation
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
Male
Middle Aged
Retrospective Studies
Female
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
Adult
Aged
Transplant Recipients
Drug Combinations
Antibodies, Neutralizing
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Implementing PTSD interventions for hospital nurses and physicians during COVID-19: A scoping review.
Archives of public health = Archives belges de sante publique, 83(1):235.
BACKGROUND: Nurses and physicians in hospitals are particularly affected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as shown in the high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To handle the urgent and high demand for psychological support, PTSD-related interventions had to be applied rapidly. Thus, interventions that were already evidence-based were adapted to pandemic conditions, or new interventions were developed. To implement these interventions sustainably, and be prepared for future disease outbreaks, we need to identify which strategies are necessary for the successful implementation. From this perspective, four years after the COVID-19 outbreak, we address the following: What are the [1] interventions that address symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in hospital-based nurses and physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic? What are the [2] implementation strategies for the identified interventions?
METHODS: We used a scoping review approach and conducted a literature search from February to April 2023 in PubMed, PsychINFO and CINHAL. Primary studies (protocols) and concept papers focused on PTSD-related interventions for nurses and physicians and their implementation in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, and published between 2020 and 2023 were included. Data extraction and analysis were performed in MaxQDA using deductive content analysis based on the (a) template for intervention description and replication (TIDieR) and the (b) Expert recommendations for implementing change (ERIC) framework.
RESULTS: A total of 16 interventions were adapted or developed world wide during the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2023. Evidence of effectiveness exist in only six of the 16 interventions. Most of them were designed using digital approaches and were primarly delivered through iterative implementation cycles, whereas the implementation of face-to-face interventions focused on interactions with various stakeholders.
CONCLUSION: Our findings can be used to support the implementation of PTSD-related interventions for nurses and physicians in hospitals under pandemic conditions. Future research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions and identifying strategies for a beneficial and sustainable implementation.
Additional Links: PMID-41039591
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@article {pmid41039591,
year = {2025},
author = {Katzmarzyk, D and Holle, D and Roes, M},
title = {Implementing PTSD interventions for hospital nurses and physicians during COVID-19: A scoping review.},
journal = {Archives of public health = Archives belges de sante publique},
volume = {83},
number = {1},
pages = {235},
pmid = {41039591},
issn = {0778-7367},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nurses and physicians in hospitals are particularly affected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as shown in the high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To handle the urgent and high demand for psychological support, PTSD-related interventions had to be applied rapidly. Thus, interventions that were already evidence-based were adapted to pandemic conditions, or new interventions were developed. To implement these interventions sustainably, and be prepared for future disease outbreaks, we need to identify which strategies are necessary for the successful implementation. From this perspective, four years after the COVID-19 outbreak, we address the following: What are the [1] interventions that address symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in hospital-based nurses and physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic? What are the [2] implementation strategies for the identified interventions?
METHODS: We used a scoping review approach and conducted a literature search from February to April 2023 in PubMed, PsychINFO and CINHAL. Primary studies (protocols) and concept papers focused on PTSD-related interventions for nurses and physicians and their implementation in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, and published between 2020 and 2023 were included. Data extraction and analysis were performed in MaxQDA using deductive content analysis based on the (a) template for intervention description and replication (TIDieR) and the (b) Expert recommendations for implementing change (ERIC) framework.
RESULTS: A total of 16 interventions were adapted or developed world wide during the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2023. Evidence of effectiveness exist in only six of the 16 interventions. Most of them were designed using digital approaches and were primarly delivered through iterative implementation cycles, whereas the implementation of face-to-face interventions focused on interactions with various stakeholders.
CONCLUSION: Our findings can be used to support the implementation of PTSD-related interventions for nurses and physicians in hospitals under pandemic conditions. Future research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions and identifying strategies for a beneficial and sustainable implementation.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Return to work for people with chronic health conditions after medical or vocational rehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review.
BMC public health, 25(1):3292.
Additional Links: PMID-41039517
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@article {pmid41039517,
year = {2025},
author = {SĂ€nger, N and Elling, JM and Hetzel, C and Schwarz, B},
title = {Return to work for people with chronic health conditions after medical or vocational rehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {3292},
pmid = {41039517},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {0421/40-64-50-91//German Pension Insurance/ ; 0421/40-64-50-91//German Pension Insurance/ ; 0421/40-64-50-91//German Pension Insurance/ ; 0421/40-64-50-91//German Pension Insurance/ ; },
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Clostridioides difficile pathogenesis and control.
Nature reviews. Microbiology [Epub ahead of print].
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) continues to be a notable burden worldwide, both in terms of patient mortality and morbidity, and the economic costs associated with treatment, diagnosis and management. The epidemiology of C. difficile has changed markedly over the decades, with high CDI rates driven by clinical pressures exacerbated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic, antibiotic resistance and selective pressures caused by antimicrobial use. C. difficile is challenging to diagnose and treat as it forms spores and can persist asymptomatically within the gut. Some strains express multiple virulence factors, including adhesins and toxins. The gut microbiota is crucially important in CDI, as a healthy microbiota is resistant to colonization with C. difficile. Dysbiosis, often caused by antimicrobial exposure, enables C. difficile spores to germinate and produce toxin, causing symptoms that can range from mild diarrhoea to fulminant colitis and death. This Review describes changes in epidemiology and effects on diagnosis, discusses recent breakthroughs in the understanding of pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance and explores the role of microbiota dysbiosis in CDI and novel microbiota therapies in CDI treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-41039149
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@article {pmid41039149,
year = {2025},
author = {Chilton, CH and Viprey, V and Normington, C and Moura, IB and Buckley, AM and Freeman, J and Davies, K and Wilcox, MH},
title = {Clostridioides difficile pathogenesis and control.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41039149},
issn = {1740-1534},
abstract = {Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) continues to be a notable burden worldwide, both in terms of patient mortality and morbidity, and the economic costs associated with treatment, diagnosis and management. The epidemiology of C. difficile has changed markedly over the decades, with high CDI rates driven by clinical pressures exacerbated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic, antibiotic resistance and selective pressures caused by antimicrobial use. C. difficile is challenging to diagnose and treat as it forms spores and can persist asymptomatically within the gut. Some strains express multiple virulence factors, including adhesins and toxins. The gut microbiota is crucially important in CDI, as a healthy microbiota is resistant to colonization with C. difficile. Dysbiosis, often caused by antimicrobial exposure, enables C. difficile spores to germinate and produce toxin, causing symptoms that can range from mild diarrhoea to fulminant colitis and death. This Review describes changes in epidemiology and effects on diagnosis, discusses recent breakthroughs in the understanding of pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance and explores the role of microbiota dysbiosis in CDI and novel microbiota therapies in CDI treatment.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Decoding long COVID-associated cardiovascular dysfunction: Mechanisms, models, and new approach methodologies.
Journal of molecular and cellular cardiology pii:S0022-2828(25)00178-6 [Epub ahead of print].
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed that the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection extends well beyond the acute phase, with long-term sequelae affecting multiple organ systems, most notably, the cardiovascular system. Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is characterized by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea, chest pain, and palpitations, which can last for months or even years after initial recovery. Increasing evidence implicates immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, persistent viral antigens, and coagulopathy as central drivers of cardiovascular complications. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that direct viral infection of cardiac and vascular cells, along with autoantibody formation and cytokine-mediated injury, contribute to myocardial inflammation, fibrosis, and arrhythmias. Sex-based immunological differences and underlying comorbidities further influence individual susceptibility and disease trajectory. Large-scale epidemiological studies have confirmed significantly increased risks of pericarditis, cardiomyopathy, dysrhythmias, and heart failure among COVID-19 survivors. In parallel, the emergence of advanced preclinical platforms, including patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based cardiac organoids, engineered heart tissues, and organ-on-a-chip systems has enabled mechanistic dissection of Long COVID pathophysiology. These human-relevant models, when integrated with clinical datasets and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytics, offer powerful tools for biomarker discovery, risk stratification, and precision therapeutic development. This review synthesizes the current understanding of cardiovascular involvement in Long COVID, highlights key mechanistic insights from both clinical and preclinical studies, and outlines future directions for diagnostic and therapeutic innovation.
Additional Links: PMID-41038267
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@article {pmid41038267,
year = {2025},
author = {Thomas, D and Yang, PC and Wu, JC and Sayed, N},
title = {Decoding long COVID-associated cardiovascular dysfunction: Mechanisms, models, and new approach methodologies.},
journal = {Journal of molecular and cellular cardiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.yjmcc.2025.09.008},
pmid = {41038267},
issn = {1095-8584},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed that the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection extends well beyond the acute phase, with long-term sequelae affecting multiple organ systems, most notably, the cardiovascular system. Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is characterized by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea, chest pain, and palpitations, which can last for months or even years after initial recovery. Increasing evidence implicates immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, persistent viral antigens, and coagulopathy as central drivers of cardiovascular complications. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that direct viral infection of cardiac and vascular cells, along with autoantibody formation and cytokine-mediated injury, contribute to myocardial inflammation, fibrosis, and arrhythmias. Sex-based immunological differences and underlying comorbidities further influence individual susceptibility and disease trajectory. Large-scale epidemiological studies have confirmed significantly increased risks of pericarditis, cardiomyopathy, dysrhythmias, and heart failure among COVID-19 survivors. In parallel, the emergence of advanced preclinical platforms, including patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based cardiac organoids, engineered heart tissues, and organ-on-a-chip systems has enabled mechanistic dissection of Long COVID pathophysiology. These human-relevant models, when integrated with clinical datasets and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytics, offer powerful tools for biomarker discovery, risk stratification, and precision therapeutic development. This review synthesizes the current understanding of cardiovascular involvement in Long COVID, highlights key mechanistic insights from both clinical and preclinical studies, and outlines future directions for diagnostic and therapeutic innovation.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Host-targeted antivirals as broad-spectrum inhibitors of respiratory viruses.
Current opinion in virology, 73:101492 pii:S1879-6257(25)00042-2 [Epub ahead of print].
Respiratory viruses, including influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, human rhinovirus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, are among the leading causes of acute respiratory infections worldwide. Strategies for antiviral drug development include direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which inhibit viral proteins, or host-targeting antivirals (HTAs), which target host factors required for the viral life cycle. DAAs are often virus-specific, leaving gaps for emerging viruses such as novel coronaviruses and influenza viruses, or less common respiratory viruses such as human metapneumovirus. Moreover, DAAs are prone to viral resistance due to the low fidelity of viral polymerases, whereas HTAs act on conserved host proteins that are less susceptible to viral escape due to greater genetic stability. A variety of HTAs are currently being investigated that target viral entry, replication, assembly, or egress. The key challenges for the development of effective broad-spectrum HTAs are related to safety and translation of in vitro potency to in vivo efficacy. This review examines host factors crucial for respiratory virus lifecycles - including sialic acid receptors, lipids, phosphoinositide kinases, mitogen-activated protein kinases, cellular helicases, and nucleotide biosynthesis pathways - and the small-molecule inhibitors and biologics that are being explored to target them.
Additional Links: PMID-41037996
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@article {pmid41037996,
year = {2025},
author = {Beran, RK and Vijjapurapu, A and Nair, V and Du Pont, V},
title = {Host-targeted antivirals as broad-spectrum inhibitors of respiratory viruses.},
journal = {Current opinion in virology},
volume = {73},
number = {},
pages = {101492},
doi = {10.1016/j.coviro.2025.101492},
pmid = {41037996},
issn = {1879-6265},
abstract = {Respiratory viruses, including influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, human rhinovirus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, are among the leading causes of acute respiratory infections worldwide. Strategies for antiviral drug development include direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which inhibit viral proteins, or host-targeting antivirals (HTAs), which target host factors required for the viral life cycle. DAAs are often virus-specific, leaving gaps for emerging viruses such as novel coronaviruses and influenza viruses, or less common respiratory viruses such as human metapneumovirus. Moreover, DAAs are prone to viral resistance due to the low fidelity of viral polymerases, whereas HTAs act on conserved host proteins that are less susceptible to viral escape due to greater genetic stability. A variety of HTAs are currently being investigated that target viral entry, replication, assembly, or egress. The key challenges for the development of effective broad-spectrum HTAs are related to safety and translation of in vitro potency to in vivo efficacy. This review examines host factors crucial for respiratory virus lifecycles - including sialic acid receptors, lipids, phosphoinositide kinases, mitogen-activated protein kinases, cellular helicases, and nucleotide biosynthesis pathways - and the small-molecule inhibitors and biologics that are being explored to target them.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Systematic review and meta-analysis of artificial intelligence models for diagnosing and subphenotyping ARDS in adults.
Heart & lung : the journal of critical care, 75:144-163 pii:S0147-9563(25)00206-7 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising tool to improve the diagnosis and characterization of ARDS, including the identification of subphenotypes.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the diagnostic performance and methodological quality of AI models for identifying ARDS and its subphenotypes in adults.
METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 63 studies (n = 135,762) published between 2013 and 2024 in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Extracted outcomes included sensitivity, specificity, AUROC, and validation methods. Risk of bias was assessed with PROBAST, and AI-specific metrics (overfitting, generalization, interpretability, discrimination, calibration) were reported.
RESULTS: Pooled sensitivity was 0.89 (95 % CI 0.84-0.93), specificity 0.88 (95 % CI 0.83-0.92), and AUROC 0.90 (95 % CI 0.86-0.94), with high heterogeneity (I² > 85 %). Twenty-two studies (31 %) were rated high quality, with sensitivity 0.86 (95 % CI 0.82-0.89) and specificity 0.82 (95 % CI 0.78-0.85). Deep learning models (n = 14) achieved sensitivity 0.91, while machine learning models (n = 19) showed 0.87. Imaging-based models (n = 15) outperformed non-imaging approaches. COVID-19 studies (n = 9) reported sensitivity 0.90 with comparable AUROC and specificity. Only seven studies (18 %) investigated subphenotyping, identifying hyperinflammatory and hypoinflammatory profiles with potential therapeutic relevance. Calibration reporting was missing in 47 % and external validation in most (29/63).
CONCLUSION: AI models for ARDS demonstrate promising diagnostic accuracy but are limited by poor calibration and scarce external validation. Subphenotyping remains exploratory but suggests opportunities for real-time patient stratification. Prospective validation and standardized reporting are essential for clinical adoption.
Additional Links: PMID-41037977
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41037977,
year = {2025},
author = {Muñoz, J and RuĂz-Cacho, R and FernĂĄndez-Araujo, NJ and Candela, A and Visedo, LC and Muñoz-Visedo, J},
title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis of artificial intelligence models for diagnosing and subphenotyping ARDS in adults.},
journal = {Heart & lung : the journal of critical care},
volume = {75},
number = {},
pages = {144-163},
doi = {10.1016/j.hrtlng.2025.09.017},
pmid = {41037977},
issn = {1527-3288},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising tool to improve the diagnosis and characterization of ARDS, including the identification of subphenotypes.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the diagnostic performance and methodological quality of AI models for identifying ARDS and its subphenotypes in adults.
METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 63 studies (n = 135,762) published between 2013 and 2024 in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Extracted outcomes included sensitivity, specificity, AUROC, and validation methods. Risk of bias was assessed with PROBAST, and AI-specific metrics (overfitting, generalization, interpretability, discrimination, calibration) were reported.
RESULTS: Pooled sensitivity was 0.89 (95 % CI 0.84-0.93), specificity 0.88 (95 % CI 0.83-0.92), and AUROC 0.90 (95 % CI 0.86-0.94), with high heterogeneity (I² > 85 %). Twenty-two studies (31 %) were rated high quality, with sensitivity 0.86 (95 % CI 0.82-0.89) and specificity 0.82 (95 % CI 0.78-0.85). Deep learning models (n = 14) achieved sensitivity 0.91, while machine learning models (n = 19) showed 0.87. Imaging-based models (n = 15) outperformed non-imaging approaches. COVID-19 studies (n = 9) reported sensitivity 0.90 with comparable AUROC and specificity. Only seven studies (18 %) investigated subphenotyping, identifying hyperinflammatory and hypoinflammatory profiles with potential therapeutic relevance. Calibration reporting was missing in 47 % and external validation in most (29/63).
CONCLUSION: AI models for ARDS demonstrate promising diagnostic accuracy but are limited by poor calibration and scarce external validation. Subphenotyping remains exploratory but suggests opportunities for real-time patient stratification. Prospective validation and standardized reporting are essential for clinical adoption.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
Comparing Prevalence of Burnout in Psychiatric Doctors Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry, 86(4): pii:24r15697.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of burnout among psychiatry residents, fellows, and attendings ("psychiatry doctors") prior to and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Data sources: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and PubMed databases was performed to identify studies reporting the prevalence of burnout pre-COVID-19 (pre-March 2020) and post-COVID-19 (post March 2020). The search was limited to articles written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals from January 1, 2010, until June 27, 2024. Study selection: There were 1,825 studies screened by 2 independent reviewers, with 36 eligible for inclusion. Observational studies and randomized controlled trials reporting the prevalence of burnout using validated tools were eligible for inclusion. Data extraction: Prevalence data were independently extracted by 2 authors and pooled using a random effects model. A subgroup analysis was performed, stratifying burnout by country income status. Results: The prevalence of burnout was 37.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.2-47.3; 25 studies; 12,524 psychiatry doctors) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and 32.0% (95% CI, 18.6-47.0; 12 studies; 7,458 psychiatry doctors) following the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost 1 in 2 psychiatry doctors from middle-income countries reported burnout pre-COVID-19 (49.8% [95% CI, 34.5-65.1]; 3 studies), with no studies reporting the prevalence of burnout in low-income countries. There was significant heterogeneity between studies. Conclusions: Burnout among psychiatry doctors is common, affecting 1 in 3 both prior to and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional studies are needed from psychiatrists in low- and middle-income countries to better characterize the prevalence of burnout in this cohort.
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@article {pmid41037751,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnson, KL and Gordon, MS and Gordon, HG},
title = {Comparing Prevalence of Burnout in Psychiatric Doctors Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {The Journal of clinical psychiatry},
volume = {86},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4088/JCP.24r15697},
pmid = {41037751},
issn = {1555-2101},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Psychiatry/statistics & numerical data ; *Physicians/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Objective: To determine the prevalence of burnout among psychiatry residents, fellows, and attendings ("psychiatry doctors") prior to and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Data sources: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and PubMed databases was performed to identify studies reporting the prevalence of burnout pre-COVID-19 (pre-March 2020) and post-COVID-19 (post March 2020). The search was limited to articles written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals from January 1, 2010, until June 27, 2024. Study selection: There were 1,825 studies screened by 2 independent reviewers, with 36 eligible for inclusion. Observational studies and randomized controlled trials reporting the prevalence of burnout using validated tools were eligible for inclusion. Data extraction: Prevalence data were independently extracted by 2 authors and pooled using a random effects model. A subgroup analysis was performed, stratifying burnout by country income status. Results: The prevalence of burnout was 37.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.2-47.3; 25 studies; 12,524 psychiatry doctors) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and 32.0% (95% CI, 18.6-47.0; 12 studies; 7,458 psychiatry doctors) following the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost 1 in 2 psychiatry doctors from middle-income countries reported burnout pre-COVID-19 (49.8% [95% CI, 34.5-65.1]; 3 studies), with no studies reporting the prevalence of burnout in low-income countries. There was significant heterogeneity between studies. Conclusions: Burnout among psychiatry doctors is common, affecting 1 in 3 both prior to and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional studies are needed from psychiatrists in low- and middle-income countries to better characterize the prevalence of burnout in this cohort.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Burnout, Professional/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Psychiatry/statistics & numerical data
*Physicians/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
Practical Imaging Approach to Determining the Cause of Nonneoplastic Lymphadenopathy.
Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc, 45(11):e240147.
In the daily clinical practice of radiologists, unexpected lymphadenopathy is frequently encountered, the majority of which is nonneoplastic. The causes of nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy are variable, and nonspecific histologic findings may challenge the accurate diagnosis. Therefore, inferring or identifying the cause based on imaging findings carries substantial clinical relevance. The causes of nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy can be broadly categorized as follows: (a) infections that lead to lymphadenitis; (b) systemic disorders such as sarcoidosis, Kawasaki disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, immunoglobulin G4-related disease, Castleman disease, dermatopathic lymphadenopathy, and histiocytosis; (c) iatrogenic causes including drug-induced lymphadenopathy and COVID-19 vaccine-related lymphadenopathy; and (d) miscellaneous causes including congestion from heart failure, foreign body lymphadenopathy from substances such as silicone, epithelial inclusions in lymph nodes, and tumor-associated reactive lymphadenopathy. The distribution of lymphadenopathy, imaging characteristics of the enlarged lymph nodes themselves (eg, necrosis, cystic changes, hypervascularity, or calcification), and additional imaging findings in other organs can help narrow down the differential diagnosis and potentially identify the most likely cause. Even when the underlying cause of lymphadenopathy does not require treatment, establishing the likely cause and correctly excluding malignancy can prevent unnecessary tests and excessive interventions, such as biopsies. Thus, radiologists can play a crucial role in directing the management of such patients and must be familiar with the various conditions that result in nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy, their imaging findings, and their clinical manifestations. The authors provide an overview of these conditions and their imaging appearances and discuss approaches for identifying the cause of nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy based on imaging findings as well as clinical information. [©]RSNA, 2025 Supplemental material is available for this article.
Additional Links: PMID-41037459
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41037459,
year = {2025},
author = {Masuoka, S and Hiyama, T and Ishiguro, T and Saida, T and Kano, S and Miyazaki, O and Matsuki, M and Minami, M and Chernyak, V and Mori, H and Nakajima, T},
title = {Practical Imaging Approach to Determining the Cause of Nonneoplastic Lymphadenopathy.},
journal = {Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc},
volume = {45},
number = {11},
pages = {e240147},
doi = {10.1148/rg.240147},
pmid = {41037459},
issn = {1527-1323},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lymphadenopathy/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; Diagnosis, Differential ; *Lymphatic Diseases/diagnostic imaging/etiology ; },
abstract = {In the daily clinical practice of radiologists, unexpected lymphadenopathy is frequently encountered, the majority of which is nonneoplastic. The causes of nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy are variable, and nonspecific histologic findings may challenge the accurate diagnosis. Therefore, inferring or identifying the cause based on imaging findings carries substantial clinical relevance. The causes of nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy can be broadly categorized as follows: (a) infections that lead to lymphadenitis; (b) systemic disorders such as sarcoidosis, Kawasaki disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, immunoglobulin G4-related disease, Castleman disease, dermatopathic lymphadenopathy, and histiocytosis; (c) iatrogenic causes including drug-induced lymphadenopathy and COVID-19 vaccine-related lymphadenopathy; and (d) miscellaneous causes including congestion from heart failure, foreign body lymphadenopathy from substances such as silicone, epithelial inclusions in lymph nodes, and tumor-associated reactive lymphadenopathy. The distribution of lymphadenopathy, imaging characteristics of the enlarged lymph nodes themselves (eg, necrosis, cystic changes, hypervascularity, or calcification), and additional imaging findings in other organs can help narrow down the differential diagnosis and potentially identify the most likely cause. Even when the underlying cause of lymphadenopathy does not require treatment, establishing the likely cause and correctly excluding malignancy can prevent unnecessary tests and excessive interventions, such as biopsies. Thus, radiologists can play a crucial role in directing the management of such patients and must be familiar with the various conditions that result in nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy, their imaging findings, and their clinical manifestations. The authors provide an overview of these conditions and their imaging appearances and discuss approaches for identifying the cause of nonneoplastic lymphadenopathy based on imaging findings as well as clinical information. [©]RSNA, 2025 Supplemental material is available for this article.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Lymphadenopathy/diagnostic imaging/etiology
Diagnosis, Differential
*Lymphatic Diseases/diagnostic imaging/etiology
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Membrane Perturbations and Assay Interferences by Ivermectin Explain Its In Vitro SARS-CoV-2 Antiviral Activities and Lack of Translatability.
Journal of medicinal chemistry [Epub ahead of print].
The antiparasitic drug ivermectin was proposed as a repurposed drug for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on in vitro studies, but proved ineffective in high-quality clinical trials. When exploring possible reasons for this disconnect, we found that ivermectin interferes with AlphaScreen assays by quenching singlet oxygen transmission, calling into question the original justifications for pursuing ivermectin as an antiviral agent. Furthermore, at the low micromolar concentrations where ivermectin reduced SARS-CoV-2 viral burden in vitro, ivermectin decreased cell viability, modified membrane bilayer properties, and nonspecifically dysregulated membrane protein functions. In this Perspective, we provide molecular-level rationale for why ivermectin, an effective and safe antiparasitic drug at low nanomolar concentrations, becomes cytotoxic at low micromolar concentrations and, in turn, why ivermectin has not translated into an effective antiviral agent. We highlight lessons learned from the failed ivermectin repurposing effort and provide a workflow for identifying membrane-perturbing bioactivity early in drug development.
Additional Links: PMID-41037346
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41037346,
year = {2025},
author = {Eastman, RT and Rusinova, R and Herold, KF and Huang, XP and Voss, T and White, AD and Hemmings, HC and Andersen, OS and Dahlin, JL},
title = {Membrane Perturbations and Assay Interferences by Ivermectin Explain Its In Vitro SARS-CoV-2 Antiviral Activities and Lack of Translatability.},
journal = {Journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c01610},
pmid = {41037346},
issn = {1520-4804},
abstract = {The antiparasitic drug ivermectin was proposed as a repurposed drug for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on in vitro studies, but proved ineffective in high-quality clinical trials. When exploring possible reasons for this disconnect, we found that ivermectin interferes with AlphaScreen assays by quenching singlet oxygen transmission, calling into question the original justifications for pursuing ivermectin as an antiviral agent. Furthermore, at the low micromolar concentrations where ivermectin reduced SARS-CoV-2 viral burden in vitro, ivermectin decreased cell viability, modified membrane bilayer properties, and nonspecifically dysregulated membrane protein functions. In this Perspective, we provide molecular-level rationale for why ivermectin, an effective and safe antiparasitic drug at low nanomolar concentrations, becomes cytotoxic at low micromolar concentrations and, in turn, why ivermectin has not translated into an effective antiviral agent. We highlight lessons learned from the failed ivermectin repurposing effort and provide a workflow for identifying membrane-perturbing bioactivity early in drug development.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Advancing regenerative therapies with umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells: A review.
Biomolecules & biomedicine [Epub ahead of print].
Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are a clinically attractive regenerative and immunomodulatory platform that combines ethical accessibility, low immunogenicity, rapid expansion, genetic stability, and a potent paracrine secretome. This study aimed to synthesize evidence on safety, efficacy, and translational readiness by conducting a focused PubMed review (2014-2024) restricted to clinical studies and trials, using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and structured data extraction. Across indications, UC-MSCs show a consistent safety profile and signals of benefit mediated by tissue repair and immune regulation: in musculoskeletal disease they improve osteoarthritis pain and function and may slow osteonecrosis; in hepatology they sustain gains in decompensated cirrhosis, mitigate acute allograft rejection, and aid recovery from ischemic-type biliary lesions; as induction in renal transplantation they are feasible with early graft benefits; in type 2 diabetes responders improve glycemic control and inflammation, while maternal and obstetric factors can shape intrinsic cell properties; in neurology, studies in cerebral palsy, chronic spinal cord injury, and traumatic optic neuropathy report motor, sensory, and visual improvements; in COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) trials show better oxygenation, radiological recovery, quality of life, and modulation of the TNF-sTNFR2 axis; in immune-mediated and transplant settings they reduce graft-versus-host disease, with signals in systemic lupus erythematosus, refractory immune thrombocytopenia, Crohn's fistulas, and as cotransplant support in aplastic anemia. The limitations of this study encompass small sample sizes, single-center designs, and short-duration trials. Additionally, there is significant heterogeneity concerning the source, manufacturing processes, dosage, administration routes, and endpoints. Other challenges include adherence to good manufacturing practices (GMP), issues related to potency, biobanking, logistical constraints, cost factors, and regulatory obstacles. Large multicenter randomized trials with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up, and combination strategies with biomaterials, gene engineering, and extracellular vesicle or exosome products, are needed to confirm durable benefit and enable routine clinical integration.
Additional Links: PMID-41036706
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41036706,
year = {2025},
author = {Hussein, M},
title = {Advancing regenerative therapies with umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells: A review.},
journal = {Biomolecules & biomedicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.17305/bb.2025.13147},
pmid = {41036706},
issn = {2831-090X},
abstract = {Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are a clinically attractive regenerative and immunomodulatory platform that combines ethical accessibility, low immunogenicity, rapid expansion, genetic stability, and a potent paracrine secretome. This study aimed to synthesize evidence on safety, efficacy, and translational readiness by conducting a focused PubMed review (2014-2024) restricted to clinical studies and trials, using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and structured data extraction. Across indications, UC-MSCs show a consistent safety profile and signals of benefit mediated by tissue repair and immune regulation: in musculoskeletal disease they improve osteoarthritis pain and function and may slow osteonecrosis; in hepatology they sustain gains in decompensated cirrhosis, mitigate acute allograft rejection, and aid recovery from ischemic-type biliary lesions; as induction in renal transplantation they are feasible with early graft benefits; in type 2 diabetes responders improve glycemic control and inflammation, while maternal and obstetric factors can shape intrinsic cell properties; in neurology, studies in cerebral palsy, chronic spinal cord injury, and traumatic optic neuropathy report motor, sensory, and visual improvements; in COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) trials show better oxygenation, radiological recovery, quality of life, and modulation of the TNF-sTNFR2 axis; in immune-mediated and transplant settings they reduce graft-versus-host disease, with signals in systemic lupus erythematosus, refractory immune thrombocytopenia, Crohn's fistulas, and as cotransplant support in aplastic anemia. The limitations of this study encompass small sample sizes, single-center designs, and short-duration trials. Additionally, there is significant heterogeneity concerning the source, manufacturing processes, dosage, administration routes, and endpoints. Other challenges include adherence to good manufacturing practices (GMP), issues related to potency, biobanking, logistical constraints, cost factors, and regulatory obstacles. Large multicenter randomized trials with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up, and combination strategies with biomaterials, gene engineering, and extracellular vesicle or exosome products, are needed to confirm durable benefit and enable routine clinical integration.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
Effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies inreducing COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths.
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 10:CD016192.
RATIONALE: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has substantially affected daily life. Sustainable testing practices are essential to balance the resource demands of widespread testing with the need to reduce the health impacts of COVID-19. However, the effectiveness of specific testing strategies for symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in reducing COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths remains uncertain.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of different SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies in reducing COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths amongst suspected cases and asymptomatic individuals.
SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier), Europe PMC, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We also conducted reference checks, citation searches, and contacted study authors to identify eligible studies. The most recent search was conducted on 07 October 2024.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs), controlled before-and-after studies (CBA), matched cohort studies, and observational studies with a comparison group involving suspected or asymptomatic individuals. Eligible studies compared testing strategy versus no testing or standard care or usual practice; one testing strategy with another, such as antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) versus nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), including reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR); home-based versus provider-administered testing; one-time testing versus repeated testing at different frequencies; and targeted testing versus widespread testing. Combinations of these components were also considered. In this review, we define 'SARS-CoV-2 testing strategy' as a complex intervention comprising multiple varying components, including test type (e.g. NAAT, antigen-detecting RDT), sample type (e.g. nasopharyngeal swab, saliva), target population (e.g. symptomatic, contacts), setting (e.g. home, clinic, congregate), frequency of testing (e.g. one-time, weekly, daily), and response protocol (e.g. isolation, confirmatory testing, treatment). We excluded single-arm studies, reviews, theses, editorials, letters, commentaries, studies reported solely in abstract form, laboratory or animal studies, mathematical modelling studies, and diagnostic test accuracy studies.
OUTCOMES: Our critical outcomes were: COVID-19 cases avoided (reduction in new cases); COVID-19-related hospitalisations avoided (reduction in hospital admissions); COVID-19-related deaths avoided (reduction in mortality); and serious adverse events related to testing, including unnecessary interventions, employment impacts, isolation effects, and psychological harms.
RISK OF BIAS: We used the Risk of bias 2 (RoB 2) tool to assess the risk of bias in RCTs and the ROBINS-I tool to assess the risk of bias in NRSIs, CBA studies, and matched cohort studies.
SYNTHESIS METHODS: As a meta-analysis was not feasible due to the nature of the data, we applied Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) methods. We assessed the certainty of the evidence for each outcome using the GRADE approach.
INCLUDED STUDIES: We included 21 studies (10 RCTs and 11 NRSIs) with 13,312,327 participants. Among these, 13 studies-comprising eight RCTs and five NRSIs-either reported one or more prespecified outcomes (four studies), provided relevant information through proxy measurements (five studies), or supplied information following author correspondence (four studies).
SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: We present the prioritised comparisons and critical outcomes. For the comparison testing strategy versus no testing or standard care or usual practice, one included study measured two critical outcomes. The study did not measure the other critical outcomes: COVID-19 cases avoided, and serious adverse events related to testing. No studies measured any critical outcomes for the other prioritised comparison: antigen-detecting RDT versus NAAT testing. Benefits and harms of testing strategy versus no testing or standard care or usual practice One observational study with a comparison group, conducted in a long-term care facility in Israel, compared weekly SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing with no testing and measured two of our critical outcomes. Based on the analysis, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing on reducing hospitalisation (decrease in the hospitalisation rate from 13.59% to 11.41%; 1 study, 162,205 participants, very low-certainty evidence) and mortality (33.8% decrease in expected mortality; 1 study, 162,205 participants, very low-certainty evidence) compared to no testing. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence because of methodological limitations, indirectness, and imprecision.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The available data are of very low-certainty. Only one of the 21 included studies reported hospitalisations or deaths; therefore, we cannot draw conclusions about the effects of testing strategy versus no testing on reducing hospitalisation and mortality. No studies evaluated other critical outcomes i.e. COVID-19 cases avoided, and serious adverse events related to testing. Future research should aim for consistency and relevance by using clearly defined outcomes, preferably based on a standardised core outcome set. A qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) would help identify barriers and facilitators to routine SARS-CoV-2 testing in healthcare settings, which could help inform intervention development. The QES would explore factors affecting the implementation of routine testing, drawing on the perspectives of healthcare providers, patients, and other interest holders.
FUNDING: This Cochrane review was partially funded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Health Research Board of Ireland.
REGISTRATION: Protocol (2025) DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD016192.
Additional Links: PMID-41036688
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41036688,
year = {2025},
author = {Saif-Ur-Rahman, KM and Nurdin, N and Movsisyan, A and Kothari, K and Gleeson, C and Conway, T and Tierney, M and Taneri, E and Mulholland, D and Tricco, AC and Dinnes, J and Devane, D},
title = {Effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies inreducing COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths.},
journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {CD016192},
pmid = {41036688},
issn = {1469-493X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality/diagnosis ; *Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19 Testing/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Asymptomatic Infections ; COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing/methods ; Controlled Before-After Studies ; Non-Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has substantially affected daily life. Sustainable testing practices are essential to balance the resource demands of widespread testing with the need to reduce the health impacts of COVID-19. However, the effectiveness of specific testing strategies for symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in reducing COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths remains uncertain.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of different SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies in reducing COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths amongst suspected cases and asymptomatic individuals.
SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier), Europe PMC, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We also conducted reference checks, citation searches, and contacted study authors to identify eligible studies. The most recent search was conducted on 07 October 2024.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs), controlled before-and-after studies (CBA), matched cohort studies, and observational studies with a comparison group involving suspected or asymptomatic individuals. Eligible studies compared testing strategy versus no testing or standard care or usual practice; one testing strategy with another, such as antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) versus nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), including reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR); home-based versus provider-administered testing; one-time testing versus repeated testing at different frequencies; and targeted testing versus widespread testing. Combinations of these components were also considered. In this review, we define 'SARS-CoV-2 testing strategy' as a complex intervention comprising multiple varying components, including test type (e.g. NAAT, antigen-detecting RDT), sample type (e.g. nasopharyngeal swab, saliva), target population (e.g. symptomatic, contacts), setting (e.g. home, clinic, congregate), frequency of testing (e.g. one-time, weekly, daily), and response protocol (e.g. isolation, confirmatory testing, treatment). We excluded single-arm studies, reviews, theses, editorials, letters, commentaries, studies reported solely in abstract form, laboratory or animal studies, mathematical modelling studies, and diagnostic test accuracy studies.
OUTCOMES: Our critical outcomes were: COVID-19 cases avoided (reduction in new cases); COVID-19-related hospitalisations avoided (reduction in hospital admissions); COVID-19-related deaths avoided (reduction in mortality); and serious adverse events related to testing, including unnecessary interventions, employment impacts, isolation effects, and psychological harms.
RISK OF BIAS: We used the Risk of bias 2 (RoB 2) tool to assess the risk of bias in RCTs and the ROBINS-I tool to assess the risk of bias in NRSIs, CBA studies, and matched cohort studies.
SYNTHESIS METHODS: As a meta-analysis was not feasible due to the nature of the data, we applied Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) methods. We assessed the certainty of the evidence for each outcome using the GRADE approach.
INCLUDED STUDIES: We included 21 studies (10 RCTs and 11 NRSIs) with 13,312,327 participants. Among these, 13 studies-comprising eight RCTs and five NRSIs-either reported one or more prespecified outcomes (four studies), provided relevant information through proxy measurements (five studies), or supplied information following author correspondence (four studies).
SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: We present the prioritised comparisons and critical outcomes. For the comparison testing strategy versus no testing or standard care or usual practice, one included study measured two critical outcomes. The study did not measure the other critical outcomes: COVID-19 cases avoided, and serious adverse events related to testing. No studies measured any critical outcomes for the other prioritised comparison: antigen-detecting RDT versus NAAT testing. Benefits and harms of testing strategy versus no testing or standard care or usual practice One observational study with a comparison group, conducted in a long-term care facility in Israel, compared weekly SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing with no testing and measured two of our critical outcomes. Based on the analysis, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing on reducing hospitalisation (decrease in the hospitalisation rate from 13.59% to 11.41%; 1 study, 162,205 participants, very low-certainty evidence) and mortality (33.8% decrease in expected mortality; 1 study, 162,205 participants, very low-certainty evidence) compared to no testing. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence because of methodological limitations, indirectness, and imprecision.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The available data are of very low-certainty. Only one of the 21 included studies reported hospitalisations or deaths; therefore, we cannot draw conclusions about the effects of testing strategy versus no testing on reducing hospitalisation and mortality. No studies evaluated other critical outcomes i.e. COVID-19 cases avoided, and serious adverse events related to testing. Future research should aim for consistency and relevance by using clearly defined outcomes, preferably based on a standardised core outcome set. A qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) would help identify barriers and facilitators to routine SARS-CoV-2 testing in healthcare settings, which could help inform intervention development. The QES would explore factors affecting the implementation of routine testing, drawing on the perspectives of healthcare providers, patients, and other interest holders.
FUNDING: This Cochrane review was partially funded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Health Research Board of Ireland.
REGISTRATION: Protocol (2025) DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD016192.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/mortality/diagnosis
*Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19 Testing/methods
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Asymptomatic Infections
COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing/methods
Controlled Before-After Studies
Non-Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
RevDate: 2025-10-02
Plasma Kallikrein Inhibitors for Multiple Disorders: Current Advances and Perspectives.
Journal of medicinal chemistry [Epub ahead of print].
Plasma kallikrein (PKal) is a pivotal serine protease involved in the regulation of the kallikrein-kinin system, the complement system, and several other biological pathways. Inhibition of PKal has become a key therapeutic strategy for hereditary angioedema, with four PKal-targeting agents approved by the U.S. FDA. The therapeutic potential of PKal inhibition is also being actively explored in other conditions, such as diabetic macular edema and COVID-19, through ongoing clinical trials. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the biological functions of PKal across diverse signaling pathways, PKal-associated diseases, and recent clinical advancements of PKal-targeting agents. Furthermore, we spotlight the optimization strategies and key structure-activity relationships underlying the discovery and development of small-molecule PKal inhibitors, offering insights that may inform future PKal drug development for hereditary angioedema and other PKal-related diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-41036636
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41036636,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, H and Deng, Y and Liu, J and Wang, Z and Hu, XQ and Duan, Y and Chen, Y and Xie, Z},
title = {Plasma Kallikrein Inhibitors for Multiple Disorders: Current Advances and Perspectives.},
journal = {Journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c02234},
pmid = {41036636},
issn = {1520-4804},
abstract = {Plasma kallikrein (PKal) is a pivotal serine protease involved in the regulation of the kallikrein-kinin system, the complement system, and several other biological pathways. Inhibition of PKal has become a key therapeutic strategy for hereditary angioedema, with four PKal-targeting agents approved by the U.S. FDA. The therapeutic potential of PKal inhibition is also being actively explored in other conditions, such as diabetic macular edema and COVID-19, through ongoing clinical trials. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the biological functions of PKal across diverse signaling pathways, PKal-associated diseases, and recent clinical advancements of PKal-targeting agents. Furthermore, we spotlight the optimization strategies and key structure-activity relationships underlying the discovery and development of small-molecule PKal inhibitors, offering insights that may inform future PKal drug development for hereditary angioedema and other PKal-related diseases.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
When Routines Break: The Health Implications of Disrupted Daily Life.
American journal of lifestyle medicine [Epub ahead of print].
Disruptions to daily routines, such as those caused by holidays or the COVID-19 pandemic, have been linked to unhealthy changes in physical activity, sleep, and diet. The Structured Days Hypothesis (in children) and the Social Zeitgeber Model (in adults) provide theoretical frameworks that explain how routines influence lifestyle behaviors. Together, these models highlight daily routines as a modifiable behavioral risk factor that can promote healthier lifestyles. Integrating routine-building strategies into clinical practice, especially during times when routines are most vulnerable to disruption, represents a low-cost and scalable approach to health promotion. This article outlines practical strategies that health care providers can use to help patients establish and sustain daily routines.
Additional Links: PMID-41035849
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41035849,
year = {2025},
author = {Cepni, AB and Kirschmann, JM and Rodriguez, A and Johnston, CA},
title = {When Routines Break: The Health Implications of Disrupted Daily Life.},
journal = {American journal of lifestyle medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15598276251381626},
pmid = {41035849},
issn = {1559-8284},
abstract = {Disruptions to daily routines, such as those caused by holidays or the COVID-19 pandemic, have been linked to unhealthy changes in physical activity, sleep, and diet. The Structured Days Hypothesis (in children) and the Social Zeitgeber Model (in adults) provide theoretical frameworks that explain how routines influence lifestyle behaviors. Together, these models highlight daily routines as a modifiable behavioral risk factor that can promote healthier lifestyles. Integrating routine-building strategies into clinical practice, especially during times when routines are most vulnerable to disruption, represents a low-cost and scalable approach to health promotion. This article outlines practical strategies that health care providers can use to help patients establish and sustain daily routines.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
Determinants of antenatal care dropout among pregnant women in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic reviews, 14(1):186.
BACKGROUND: Antenatal care (ANC) is a comprehensive healthcare service designed to support pregnant women through education, monitoring, and interventions to promote a healthy pregnancy and ensure a positive childbirth. Regular ANC visits play a crucial role in preventing complications, managing existing health conditions, and promoting the overall well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. Dropout from ANC visits results in potential complications during pregnancy, and these complications can involve the mother's health, the fetus's health, or both. Common complications of pregnancy include high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, anemia, preeclampsia, preterm labor, stillbirth, and miscarriage. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of dropout from antenatal care and determinant factors among pregnant women in Africa.
METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included with open or free access to full text all full, English-language original research articles, and doctoral dissertations on observational studies (cross-sectional, case control, or cohort) conducted worldwide between 2000 and December 15, 2023, which were published in peer-reviewed journals that report dropout rates from prenatal care and its determinants. We follow PRISMA checklist. Using keywords, papers were retrieved from the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and gray literature. Stata 17 was used to conduct the meta-analysis. The Egger's regression, Begg's test, and funnel plot were employed to investigate publication bias. To ascertain the level of heterogeneity, the I[2] statistics were employed.
RESULTS: The overall magnitude of antenatal care dropout among pregnant women, as pooled from the 16 studies, was found to be 29.44%, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 19.16% to 39.72%. The pooled odds ratio showed that rural pregnant women (AOR = 3.55, 95 CI (1.17-5.92). women who had no formal education (AOR = 3.88, 95 CI (- 0.24-8.00), inaccessible PHC facilities (AOR = 5.90, 95 CI (0.54-11.26), lack of support from family or husband (AOR = 4.91 CI (- 1.31-11.19), and women with poor economic status (AOR = 2.50, 95 CI (1.19-3.81) were determinant factors for maternal dropout from antenatal care service.
CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of antenatal care dropout was high based on the included 16 articles. According to the review, pregnant women's antenatal care dropout was significantly correlated with living in a rural area, being unable to access a primary health facility, lacking formal education, not having support from her husband or family, and having low socioeconomic status. These findings suggest that various socio-economic and geographical factors play a significant role in determining whether pregnant women continue with antenatal care services. Addressing these determinants, such as improving access to healthcare facilities, providing educational support, and enhancing economic conditions, may contribute to reducing the dropout rates and improving overall maternal healthcare outcomes. Additionally, understanding these factors is essential for tailoring interventions to specific populations and regions to ensure effective ANC retention.
Additional Links: PMID-41035096
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41035096,
year = {2025},
author = {Fenta, ET and Endeshaw, D and Adal, O and Tareke, AA and Kebede, N and Delie, AM and Bogale, EK and Anagaw, TF and Tiruneh, MG},
title = {Determinants of antenatal care dropout among pregnant women in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {186},
pmid = {41035096},
issn = {2046-4053},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Prenatal Care/statistics & numerical data ; Africa/epidemiology ; *Patient Dropouts/statistics & numerical data ; Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology ; *Pregnant People/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Antenatal care (ANC) is a comprehensive healthcare service designed to support pregnant women through education, monitoring, and interventions to promote a healthy pregnancy and ensure a positive childbirth. Regular ANC visits play a crucial role in preventing complications, managing existing health conditions, and promoting the overall well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. Dropout from ANC visits results in potential complications during pregnancy, and these complications can involve the mother's health, the fetus's health, or both. Common complications of pregnancy include high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, anemia, preeclampsia, preterm labor, stillbirth, and miscarriage. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of dropout from antenatal care and determinant factors among pregnant women in Africa.
METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included with open or free access to full text all full, English-language original research articles, and doctoral dissertations on observational studies (cross-sectional, case control, or cohort) conducted worldwide between 2000 and December 15, 2023, which were published in peer-reviewed journals that report dropout rates from prenatal care and its determinants. We follow PRISMA checklist. Using keywords, papers were retrieved from the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and gray literature. Stata 17 was used to conduct the meta-analysis. The Egger's regression, Begg's test, and funnel plot were employed to investigate publication bias. To ascertain the level of heterogeneity, the I[2] statistics were employed.
RESULTS: The overall magnitude of antenatal care dropout among pregnant women, as pooled from the 16 studies, was found to be 29.44%, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 19.16% to 39.72%. The pooled odds ratio showed that rural pregnant women (AOR = 3.55, 95 CI (1.17-5.92). women who had no formal education (AOR = 3.88, 95 CI (- 0.24-8.00), inaccessible PHC facilities (AOR = 5.90, 95 CI (0.54-11.26), lack of support from family or husband (AOR = 4.91 CI (- 1.31-11.19), and women with poor economic status (AOR = 2.50, 95 CI (1.19-3.81) were determinant factors for maternal dropout from antenatal care service.
CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of antenatal care dropout was high based on the included 16 articles. According to the review, pregnant women's antenatal care dropout was significantly correlated with living in a rural area, being unable to access a primary health facility, lacking formal education, not having support from her husband or family, and having low socioeconomic status. These findings suggest that various socio-economic and geographical factors play a significant role in determining whether pregnant women continue with antenatal care services. Addressing these determinants, such as improving access to healthcare facilities, providing educational support, and enhancing economic conditions, may contribute to reducing the dropout rates and improving overall maternal healthcare outcomes. Additionally, understanding these factors is essential for tailoring interventions to specific populations and regions to ensure effective ANC retention.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*Prenatal Care/statistics & numerical data
Africa/epidemiology
*Patient Dropouts/statistics & numerical data
Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology
*Pregnant People/psychology
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
Evolving cystic fibrosis care models in the modulator era.
Current opinion in pulmonary medicine, 31(6):644-649.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The advent of CFTR modulators and the adoption of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted reconsideration of cystic fibrosis (CF) care models. This review explores how care delivery may evolve in response to these changes.
RECENT FINDINGS: Emerging evidence highlights the heterogeneity in response to CFTR modulators, with some patients continuing to experience disease progression. Preliminary trial data have explored therapy de-escalation, but long-term safety remains uncertain. Challenges in microbiological surveillance, particularly due to reduced sputum production, complicate monitoring. Early efforts to define "stability" have led to position statements advocating risk-stratified, hybrid care models.
SUMMARY: CF care models should shift toward individualized, flexible approaches that prioritize equity and safety. Clinical trials and registry analyses will be essential to validate such models. Until then, conservative implementation with continued multidisciplinary support and objective monitoring are advised.
Additional Links: PMID-40916950
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40916950,
year = {2025},
author = {Martin, I and Ratjen, F and Flume, P},
title = {Evolving cystic fibrosis care models in the modulator era.},
journal = {Current opinion in pulmonary medicine},
volume = {31},
number = {6},
pages = {644-649},
pmid = {40916950},
issn = {1531-6971},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cystic Fibrosis/therapy/drug therapy ; Telemedicine ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The advent of CFTR modulators and the adoption of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted reconsideration of cystic fibrosis (CF) care models. This review explores how care delivery may evolve in response to these changes.
RECENT FINDINGS: Emerging evidence highlights the heterogeneity in response to CFTR modulators, with some patients continuing to experience disease progression. Preliminary trial data have explored therapy de-escalation, but long-term safety remains uncertain. Challenges in microbiological surveillance, particularly due to reduced sputum production, complicate monitoring. Early efforts to define "stability" have led to position statements advocating risk-stratified, hybrid care models.
SUMMARY: CF care models should shift toward individualized, flexible approaches that prioritize equity and safety. Clinical trials and registry analyses will be essential to validate such models. Until then, conservative implementation with continued multidisciplinary support and objective monitoring are advised.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Cystic Fibrosis/therapy/drug therapy
Telemedicine
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator
Disease Progression
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
The silent surge: the under-recognised burden of respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, and parainfluenza viruses in adults.
International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases, 159:108006.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (HMPV), and parainfluenza viruses (PIV) drive substantial morbidity in adults, yet remain underdiagnosed due to diagnostic gaps. While influenza and COVID-19 benefit from rapid triplex antigenic tests and PCR, HMPV and PIV lack routine diagnostics, and RSV testing is underutilised in adults, leading to frequent misdiagnosis as common colds or bacterial infections. This opinion paper highlights the burden of these "forgotten viruses" in elderly and comorbid populations, where RSV and HMPV cause significant hospitalizations. Misdiagnosis fuels cardiovascular complications and antimicrobial resistance through inappropriate antibiotic use. Recent RSV vaccine successes offer a blueprint for HMPV and PIV, but improved diagnostics are critical to guide vaccine strategies and inform prevention efforts. Addressing these gaps can reduce healthcare costs and protect vulnerable populations from these hidden respiratory threats.
Additional Links: PMID-40752767
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40752767,
year = {2025},
author = {Davido, B and Loubet, P},
title = {The silent surge: the under-recognised burden of respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, and parainfluenza viruses in adults.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {159},
number = {},
pages = {108006},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2025.108006},
pmid = {40752767},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; *Paramyxoviridae Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Metapneumovirus/isolation & purification ; Adult ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human ; COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Aged ; },
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (HMPV), and parainfluenza viruses (PIV) drive substantial morbidity in adults, yet remain underdiagnosed due to diagnostic gaps. While influenza and COVID-19 benefit from rapid triplex antigenic tests and PCR, HMPV and PIV lack routine diagnostics, and RSV testing is underutilised in adults, leading to frequent misdiagnosis as common colds or bacterial infections. This opinion paper highlights the burden of these "forgotten viruses" in elderly and comorbid populations, where RSV and HMPV cause significant hospitalizations. Misdiagnosis fuels cardiovascular complications and antimicrobial resistance through inappropriate antibiotic use. Recent RSV vaccine successes offer a blueprint for HMPV and PIV, but improved diagnostics are critical to guide vaccine strategies and inform prevention efforts. Addressing these gaps can reduce healthcare costs and protect vulnerable populations from these hidden respiratory threats.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Paramyxoviridae Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology
Metapneumovirus/isolation & purification
Adult
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human
COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis
Aged
RevDate: 2025-10-02
CmpDate: 2025-10-02
How do drug discovery scientists address the unmet need of long COVID syndrome therapeutics and what more can be done?.
Expert opinion on drug discovery, 20(10):1251-1265.
INTRODUCTION: Long COVID (LC), also known as post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PASC), has emerged as a significant public health concern characterized by persistent symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This condition affects regardless of initial illness severity and can significantly impair daily functioning. Understanding the implications of LC is crucial, given that approximately 6.9 % of adults reported related symptoms in 2022, with increased prevalence among women and individuals of Hispanic descent. The pathogenesis of LC is multifactorial, involving mechanisms such as endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and potential viral persistence. The clinical manifestations include fatigue, cognitive impairment, musculoskeletal pain, and sleep disturbances. Current research emphasizes the importance of early antiviral interventions and vaccines to mitigate the risk of developing LC. Despite promising therapies like anti-inflammatory agents and metabolic enhancers, the lack of established biomarkers complicates diagnosis and treatment.
AREAS COVERED: The authors provide an overview of the pathogenesis of LC and briefly review the currently available therapy. The authors then give their perspectives on how best future drug discovery efforts can be utilized to address the current demand for novel LC therapeutics to reduce the burden of this public health problem.
EXPERT OPINION: Progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology and potential treatment options, as well as in establishing reliable biomarkers for potential tailored strategies. Future research should prioritize both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Addressing these challenges is essential for developing comprehensive care protocols for individuals affected by LC.
Additional Links: PMID-40660830
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40660830,
year = {2025},
author = {Pagliano, P and Salzano, F and D'Amore, C and Spera, A and Conti, V and Folliero, V and Franci, G and Ascione, T},
title = {How do drug discovery scientists address the unmet need of long COVID syndrome therapeutics and what more can be done?.},
journal = {Expert opinion on drug discovery},
volume = {20},
number = {10},
pages = {1251-1265},
doi = {10.1080/17460441.2025.2534056},
pmid = {40660830},
issn = {1746-045X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Drug Discovery/methods ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Long COVID (LC), also known as post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PASC), has emerged as a significant public health concern characterized by persistent symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This condition affects regardless of initial illness severity and can significantly impair daily functioning. Understanding the implications of LC is crucial, given that approximately 6.9 % of adults reported related symptoms in 2022, with increased prevalence among women and individuals of Hispanic descent. The pathogenesis of LC is multifactorial, involving mechanisms such as endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and potential viral persistence. The clinical manifestations include fatigue, cognitive impairment, musculoskeletal pain, and sleep disturbances. Current research emphasizes the importance of early antiviral interventions and vaccines to mitigate the risk of developing LC. Despite promising therapies like anti-inflammatory agents and metabolic enhancers, the lack of established biomarkers complicates diagnosis and treatment.
AREAS COVERED: The authors provide an overview of the pathogenesis of LC and briefly review the currently available therapy. The authors then give their perspectives on how best future drug discovery efforts can be utilized to address the current demand for novel LC therapeutics to reduce the burden of this public health problem.
EXPERT OPINION: Progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology and potential treatment options, as well as in establishing reliable biomarkers for potential tailored strategies. Future research should prioritize both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Addressing these challenges is essential for developing comprehensive care protocols for individuals affected by LC.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Drug Discovery/methods
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-10-01
Immunological Insights and Vaccine Advances Against Apicomplexan Parasites: Emerging Concepts and Innovations.
Microbial pathogenesis pii:S0882-4010(25)00799-5 [Epub ahead of print].
The apicomplexan parasites are globally considered as the major cause of numerous infectious diseases in humans and animals. Apicomplexan parasites include Plasmodium, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium, Eimeria and Babesia. The rise in the drug resistance have made the traditional control measures, such as chemotherapy and vector management, inadequate against them. These are the intracellular infectious agent and possess complex life cycles, antigenic variability, and immune evasion abilities. These different abilities hinder the development of vaccines against them. Hence, there is urgent need for development of effective vaccines by novel measures. However, notable progress has been made in past years due to the advancements in immunology, molecular biology, and biotechnology. Different types of vaccines including subunit vaccines have been developed and have demonstrated favorable efficiency. In the meantime, live-attenuated vaccines (LAV) continue to provide protection in animals. Apart from that, there are different innovations like CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing that have enabled the creation of genetically attenuated strains for T. gondii and Eimeria. These attenuated strains are used for the development of vaccines. Furthermore, mRNA vaccine technology, which was successfully utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, is now being used against parasitic infections. It is now offering fast and rapid development along with vigorous cellular immunity. The use of nanoparticles and novel adjuvants such as TLR agonists and saponins has improved the stability and effectiveness of vaccines. Approaches like mucosal delivery, especially for enteric parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Eimeria, is achieving attention for their ability to provide the localized protection. In spite of these advancements some challenges still persist. Antigenic diversity, short-lived immunity, regulatory barriers, and limited funding need to be addressed. Some of the emerging technologies including systems vaccinology, reverse vaccinology, and vectored delivery platforms, are paving the way for more targeted and effective vaccination. There is need for concerted effort incorporating multidisciplinary research, One Health integration, and scalable manufacturing methodologies for effective translation of these scientific innovations into solutions. By harnessing these emerging technologies within a One Health framework, the next generation of vaccines has the potential to transform the management of apicomplexan diseases worldwide.
Additional Links: PMID-41033372
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41033372,
year = {2025},
author = {Alshammari, A},
title = {Immunological Insights and Vaccine Advances Against Apicomplexan Parasites: Emerging Concepts and Innovations.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108074},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.108074},
pmid = {41033372},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The apicomplexan parasites are globally considered as the major cause of numerous infectious diseases in humans and animals. Apicomplexan parasites include Plasmodium, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium, Eimeria and Babesia. The rise in the drug resistance have made the traditional control measures, such as chemotherapy and vector management, inadequate against them. These are the intracellular infectious agent and possess complex life cycles, antigenic variability, and immune evasion abilities. These different abilities hinder the development of vaccines against them. Hence, there is urgent need for development of effective vaccines by novel measures. However, notable progress has been made in past years due to the advancements in immunology, molecular biology, and biotechnology. Different types of vaccines including subunit vaccines have been developed and have demonstrated favorable efficiency. In the meantime, live-attenuated vaccines (LAV) continue to provide protection in animals. Apart from that, there are different innovations like CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing that have enabled the creation of genetically attenuated strains for T. gondii and Eimeria. These attenuated strains are used for the development of vaccines. Furthermore, mRNA vaccine technology, which was successfully utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, is now being used against parasitic infections. It is now offering fast and rapid development along with vigorous cellular immunity. The use of nanoparticles and novel adjuvants such as TLR agonists and saponins has improved the stability and effectiveness of vaccines. Approaches like mucosal delivery, especially for enteric parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Eimeria, is achieving attention for their ability to provide the localized protection. In spite of these advancements some challenges still persist. Antigenic diversity, short-lived immunity, regulatory barriers, and limited funding need to be addressed. Some of the emerging technologies including systems vaccinology, reverse vaccinology, and vectored delivery platforms, are paving the way for more targeted and effective vaccination. There is need for concerted effort incorporating multidisciplinary research, One Health integration, and scalable manufacturing methodologies for effective translation of these scientific innovations into solutions. By harnessing these emerging technologies within a One Health framework, the next generation of vaccines has the potential to transform the management of apicomplexan diseases worldwide.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-01
Extended reality in the changing landscape of cranial neurosurgery: Role of image fusions and connectomics in precision and safety.
Journal of clinical neuroscience : official journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia, 142:111652 pii:S0967-5868(25)00625-3 [Epub ahead of print].
Recently, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) technologies, collectively termed Extended Reality (XR), have been adopted to support enhanced visualizations for neurosurgeons by augmenting the clinical environment with relevant digital content. These groundbreaking technologies, including connectomics, have been successfully integrated into neurosurgery as tools for preoperative rehearsals, surgical simulation, and intraoperative augmentation. Adaptation of XR within the surgical field has assisted neurosurgeons with preoperative planning using connectomics and anticipation of potential complications. XR enables neurosurgeons to explore operative fields from various angles and visualize hidden neurovascular anatomy, enhancing precision in keyhole approaches. It also addresses resident work hour restrictions and challenges like COVID-19, offering advanced training tools for novices and experts alike. Additionally, XR facilitates telecasting, patient education, remote telecollaboration, and helps bridge global educational gaps in neurosurgery, including credentialing and recertification. This paper outlays the conceptual differences between AR, VR, and MR, emphasizing the benefits and limitations of XR, along with the growing role of connectomics in micro-neurosurgery and endoscopic neurosurgery. The role of 2D versus 3D imaging, merger of preoperative versus real-time imaging, fusion of additional imaging data such as ICG, 5-ALA, or fluorescein angiography, and utilization of emerging technologies like Surgical Theater, QuickTome, etc. are highlighted. We also bring forth the pivotal role of visuo-spatial orientation of co-participants, apart from shared intentions and varied competence during the use of MR in neurosurgery. We explore the latest XR applications in neurosurgery and discuss exciting future directions, limitations, and ethical implications for the trailblazing technology.
Additional Links: PMID-41033120
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41033120,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, G and Singh, A and Kainth, T and Menon, SS and Jain, S and Spektor, V and Prasanna, P and Manjila, S},
title = {Extended reality in the changing landscape of cranial neurosurgery: Role of image fusions and connectomics in precision and safety.},
journal = {Journal of clinical neuroscience : official journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia},
volume = {142},
number = {},
pages = {111652},
doi = {10.1016/j.jocn.2025.111652},
pmid = {41033120},
issn = {1532-2653},
abstract = {Recently, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) technologies, collectively termed Extended Reality (XR), have been adopted to support enhanced visualizations for neurosurgeons by augmenting the clinical environment with relevant digital content. These groundbreaking technologies, including connectomics, have been successfully integrated into neurosurgery as tools for preoperative rehearsals, surgical simulation, and intraoperative augmentation. Adaptation of XR within the surgical field has assisted neurosurgeons with preoperative planning using connectomics and anticipation of potential complications. XR enables neurosurgeons to explore operative fields from various angles and visualize hidden neurovascular anatomy, enhancing precision in keyhole approaches. It also addresses resident work hour restrictions and challenges like COVID-19, offering advanced training tools for novices and experts alike. Additionally, XR facilitates telecasting, patient education, remote telecollaboration, and helps bridge global educational gaps in neurosurgery, including credentialing and recertification. This paper outlays the conceptual differences between AR, VR, and MR, emphasizing the benefits and limitations of XR, along with the growing role of connectomics in micro-neurosurgery and endoscopic neurosurgery. The role of 2D versus 3D imaging, merger of preoperative versus real-time imaging, fusion of additional imaging data such as ICG, 5-ALA, or fluorescein angiography, and utilization of emerging technologies like Surgical Theater, QuickTome, etc. are highlighted. We also bring forth the pivotal role of visuo-spatial orientation of co-participants, apart from shared intentions and varied competence during the use of MR in neurosurgery. We explore the latest XR applications in neurosurgery and discuss exciting future directions, limitations, and ethical implications for the trailblazing technology.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-01
COVID-19 and inflammatory bowel disease - what to know.
Current opinion in immunology, 97:102661 pii:S0952-7915(25)00137-2 [Epub ahead of print].
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that arises from a complex interplay between a dysregulated immune response in genetically predisposed individuals. IBD can further be classified into its two main subtypes, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both subtypes have shown increasing prevalence and incidence rates worldwide, and IBD is now considered a global epidemic. About three million patients are estimated to suffer from this disease, both in the US and Europe, with most of them requiring maintenance treatment including immunosuppressive agents, putting them at risk for opportunistic infections. In 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hit the world with a long pandemic period resulting in dramatic numbers of hospitalizations, Intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and deaths. Patients with chronic illnesses, such as IBD, were rapidly considered to be at an increased risk for both infection and infection-related complications. For IBD and its treatment, however, evidence over the last few years showed no increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-related complications. In this review, we will discuss the latest insights about COVID-19 in IBD patients with a particular focus on the disease course of COVID-19 and on IBD-related adverse outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-41033047
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41033047,
year = {2025},
author = {Godat, A and Chistoforidis, D and Greuter, T},
title = {COVID-19 and inflammatory bowel disease - what to know.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {97},
number = {},
pages = {102661},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102661},
pmid = {41033047},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that arises from a complex interplay between a dysregulated immune response in genetically predisposed individuals. IBD can further be classified into its two main subtypes, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both subtypes have shown increasing prevalence and incidence rates worldwide, and IBD is now considered a global epidemic. About three million patients are estimated to suffer from this disease, both in the US and Europe, with most of them requiring maintenance treatment including immunosuppressive agents, putting them at risk for opportunistic infections. In 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hit the world with a long pandemic period resulting in dramatic numbers of hospitalizations, Intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and deaths. Patients with chronic illnesses, such as IBD, were rapidly considered to be at an increased risk for both infection and infection-related complications. For IBD and its treatment, however, evidence over the last few years showed no increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-related complications. In this review, we will discuss the latest insights about COVID-19 in IBD patients with a particular focus on the disease course of COVID-19 and on IBD-related adverse outcomes.},
}
RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01
Mitochondrial Disruption in Viral-Mediated Neuronal Injury: A Mechanistic Perspective.
Journal of medical virology, 97(10):e70626.
Neuronal injury is a major pathological issue that cannot be ignored during viral infections. Mitochondria, the energy factories of the cell, play a unique role in this scenario and are severely impacted when viruses infect host cells. Viruses invade and infect cells via specific mechanisms, causing changes in cellular structure and function. These changes not only directly affect mitochondria but also disrupt their normal function through indirect pathways. This paper reviews the mechanisms of mitochondrial damage induced by infections with SARS-CoV-2, herpesviruses, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV), providing new insights and strategies for preventing and treating neuronal injury.
Additional Links: PMID-41031563
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41031563,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, S and Zhai, M and Wu, B and Sun, W},
title = {Mitochondrial Disruption in Viral-Mediated Neuronal Injury: A Mechanistic Perspective.},
journal = {Journal of medical virology},
volume = {97},
number = {10},
pages = {e70626},
doi = {10.1002/jmv.70626},
pmid = {41031563},
issn = {1096-9071},
support = {//This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 82171378, 82401438), Shenzhen Municipal Science, Technology and Innovation Commission (No. JCYJ20240813114512016, and No. JCYJ20240813152049062), Shenzhen Nanshan District Healthcare System Science and Technology Key Projects (No. NSZD2023003), Medical-Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Foundation of Shenzhen University (2023YG031)./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Mitochondria/pathology/virology/metabolism ; *Neurons/virology/pathology ; COVID-19/virology/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Hepacivirus/pathogenicity ; HIV Infections/virology/pathology ; },
abstract = {Neuronal injury is a major pathological issue that cannot be ignored during viral infections. Mitochondria, the energy factories of the cell, play a unique role in this scenario and are severely impacted when viruses infect host cells. Viruses invade and infect cells via specific mechanisms, causing changes in cellular structure and function. These changes not only directly affect mitochondria but also disrupt their normal function through indirect pathways. This paper reviews the mechanisms of mitochondrial damage induced by infections with SARS-CoV-2, herpesviruses, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV), providing new insights and strategies for preventing and treating neuronal injury.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Mitochondria/pathology/virology/metabolism
*Neurons/virology/pathology
COVID-19/virology/pathology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Hepacivirus/pathogenicity
HIV Infections/virology/pathology
RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01
"In-Flu-Enza and Out-Flew Hair:" Post-Epidemic Health and the Importance of the History of Epidemics.
The Yale journal of biology and medicine, 98(3):341-348.
When COVID-19 survivors reported ongoing symptoms or new health concerns following their infections in 2020 and early 2021, many medical practitioners and health agencies questioned the connection between novel viruses and long-term health impacts. Medical historians studying epidemics understand the connection between viral infection and health complications emerging immediately or years or decades later. In this essay, I explore the similarities between the medical fallout of the 1918 influenza and COVID-19 pandemics. Despite the differences between the viruses, these novel strains produced similar medium- and long-term health difficulties, including cardiovascular dysfunction and crushing fatigue. As I demonstrate, a significant difference between these two pandemics is in the response by medical practitioners. Following influenza, practitioners expected new and worsening health issues and took their patients' complaints seriously, offering support through food delivery, convalescent care, specialist oversight, and in-home nursing. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, many practitioners characterized ongoing or new symptoms as anxiety. Patients led efforts to recognize Long COVID as an authentic medical condition, and today, physicians around the country refer their patients to Long COVID clinics. The value of medical history is apparent in this comparison-if practitioners understand how historical epidemics impacted various populations, they expect that in the epidemic aftermath or the period following an acute epidemic crisis, not all patients get well. Including the history of epidemics in public health education, continuing education programming, and even medical school curricula can resist epidemic erasure and empower medical practitioners to expect the unexpected.
Additional Links: PMID-41030634
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41030634,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnson, BL},
title = {"In-Flu-Enza and Out-Flew Hair:" Post-Epidemic Health and the Importance of the History of Epidemics.},
journal = {The Yale journal of biology and medicine},
volume = {98},
number = {3},
pages = {341-348},
pmid = {41030634},
issn = {1551-4056},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/history ; History, 20th Century ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology/history ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Epidemics/history ; Pandemics/history ; History, 21st Century ; Influenza Pandemic, 1918-1919/history ; },
abstract = {When COVID-19 survivors reported ongoing symptoms or new health concerns following their infections in 2020 and early 2021, many medical practitioners and health agencies questioned the connection between novel viruses and long-term health impacts. Medical historians studying epidemics understand the connection between viral infection and health complications emerging immediately or years or decades later. In this essay, I explore the similarities between the medical fallout of the 1918 influenza and COVID-19 pandemics. Despite the differences between the viruses, these novel strains produced similar medium- and long-term health difficulties, including cardiovascular dysfunction and crushing fatigue. As I demonstrate, a significant difference between these two pandemics is in the response by medical practitioners. Following influenza, practitioners expected new and worsening health issues and took their patients' complaints seriously, offering support through food delivery, convalescent care, specialist oversight, and in-home nursing. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, many practitioners characterized ongoing or new symptoms as anxiety. Patients led efforts to recognize Long COVID as an authentic medical condition, and today, physicians around the country refer their patients to Long COVID clinics. The value of medical history is apparent in this comparison-if practitioners understand how historical epidemics impacted various populations, they expect that in the epidemic aftermath or the period following an acute epidemic crisis, not all patients get well. Including the history of epidemics in public health education, continuing education programming, and even medical school curricula can resist epidemic erasure and empower medical practitioners to expect the unexpected.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/history
History, 20th Century
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology/history
SARS-CoV-2
*Epidemics/history
Pandemics/history
History, 21st Century
Influenza Pandemic, 1918-1919/history
RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01
Post-steroid rebound in COVID-19 pneumonitis: a case series and review of the literature.
BMC pulmonary medicine, 25(1):440.
UNLABELLED: We report a retrospective case series of COVID-19 pneumonitis (C19P) patients in hypoxic respiratory failure who experienced a symptom rebound upon cessation or weaning of steroids following an initial positive response. The post-steroid rebound phenomenon in C19P is not well described in the literature and we aim to add to the body of evidence exploring this pathology.
METHODS: Post-steroid rebound COVID-19 pneumonitis (PSRCP) cases at our institution were identified for notes review from respiratory department follow-up records. The inclusion criteria were as follows: 1. Hospital admissions with radiologically and PCR-confirmed C19P. 2. Administration of a corticosteroid course for the indication of hypoxia due to C19P. 3. An objective relapse of the index presentation with differential diagnoses other than post-steroid rebound excluded by appropriate clinicians. A literature search was performed using Medline, Ovid and Google Scholar and the search terms "rebound and COVID-19", "rebound and COVID-19 and pneumonitis" "post-COVID and pneumonitis" "relapse and COVID-19", "relapse and coronavirus and pneumonitis".
RESULTS: Eighteen patients were identified between 2021 and 2024 with ages ranging from 48 to 80 years. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (50%) and obesity (39%) while 89% had a history of regular smoking. Seventeen of the 18 had evidence of hyperinflammation at first C19P presentation with a C-reactive protein (CRP) ≥ 75 mg/dl. Notably, 15 patients had a CRP blood test at least 48 h prior to discharge, steroid cessation or weaning and of these, 11 (73%) showed persisting CRP elevation. Seventeen of the 18 responded upon diagnosis of PSRCP to steroid rechallenge with survival to discharge.
CONCLUSIONS: As COVID-19 becomes endemic, clinicians should remain wary of the risk of PSRCP. Greater recognition of the importance of steroid weans and rechallenges in C19P narratives will help avoid poor outcomes, readmissions and the risk of post-C19P sequelae. Awareness of the PSRCP phenomenon should lower the threshold for slow steroid weans upon an initial C19P diagnosis over the standard UK regimen of a 10-day duration or less dexamethasone course. A definition for PSRCP is proposed as well as a decision aid around steroid strategies in patients both with and at risk of PSRCP.
Additional Links: PMID-41029595
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41029595,
year = {2025},
author = {Numbere, NK},
title = {Post-steroid rebound in COVID-19 pneumonitis: a case series and review of the literature.},
journal = {BMC pulmonary medicine},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {440},
pmid = {41029595},
issn = {1471-2466},
mesh = {Humans ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Male ; *COVID-19/complications ; Female ; Retrospective Studies ; Aged, 80 and over ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Recurrence ; *Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; *Pneumonia/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: We report a retrospective case series of COVID-19 pneumonitis (C19P) patients in hypoxic respiratory failure who experienced a symptom rebound upon cessation or weaning of steroids following an initial positive response. The post-steroid rebound phenomenon in C19P is not well described in the literature and we aim to add to the body of evidence exploring this pathology.
METHODS: Post-steroid rebound COVID-19 pneumonitis (PSRCP) cases at our institution were identified for notes review from respiratory department follow-up records. The inclusion criteria were as follows: 1. Hospital admissions with radiologically and PCR-confirmed C19P. 2. Administration of a corticosteroid course for the indication of hypoxia due to C19P. 3. An objective relapse of the index presentation with differential diagnoses other than post-steroid rebound excluded by appropriate clinicians. A literature search was performed using Medline, Ovid and Google Scholar and the search terms "rebound and COVID-19", "rebound and COVID-19 and pneumonitis" "post-COVID and pneumonitis" "relapse and COVID-19", "relapse and coronavirus and pneumonitis".
RESULTS: Eighteen patients were identified between 2021 and 2024 with ages ranging from 48 to 80 years. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (50%) and obesity (39%) while 89% had a history of regular smoking. Seventeen of the 18 had evidence of hyperinflammation at first C19P presentation with a C-reactive protein (CRP) ≥ 75 mg/dl. Notably, 15 patients had a CRP blood test at least 48 h prior to discharge, steroid cessation or weaning and of these, 11 (73%) showed persisting CRP elevation. Seventeen of the 18 responded upon diagnosis of PSRCP to steroid rechallenge with survival to discharge.
CONCLUSIONS: As COVID-19 becomes endemic, clinicians should remain wary of the risk of PSRCP. Greater recognition of the importance of steroid weans and rechallenges in C19P narratives will help avoid poor outcomes, readmissions and the risk of post-C19P sequelae. Awareness of the PSRCP phenomenon should lower the threshold for slow steroid weans upon an initial C19P diagnosis over the standard UK regimen of a 10-day duration or less dexamethasone course. A definition for PSRCP is proposed as well as a decision aid around steroid strategies in patients both with and at risk of PSRCP.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Middle Aged
Aged
Male
*COVID-19/complications
Female
Retrospective Studies
Aged, 80 and over
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2
Recurrence
*Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
*Pneumonia/drug therapy
RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01
The efficacy analysis of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy followed by surgery in stage III locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BMC cancer, 25(1):1443.
BACKGROUND: Locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has the potential for surgical cure after neoadjuvant immunotherapy in the era of immunotherapy. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of published data to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy for stage III NSCLC.
METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted on the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from January, 2000 to September, 2024 to identify studies concentrated on neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy followed by surgery for treating stage III NSCLC. The effectiveness and safety data were collected for meta-analysis. Study endpoints included resection rate, major pathological response (MPR), pathological complete response (pCR), objective response rate (ORR), treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), severe adverse events (SAEs). Data analysis was conducted using R 4.1.3 software, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
RESULTS: A total of 1043 patients from 22 studies were included in this meta-analysis, of whom 892 cases underwent surgery. The pooled MPR rate, pCR rate, and ORR rate were 65%, 38%, and 73%, respectively. The pooled incidence of TRAEs was 84% and the pooled incidence of SAEs was 13%. The results of the subgroup analysis showed that nivolumab- and pembrolizumab-based neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy showed a higher MPR rate (nivolumab 69%, pembrolizumab 68%) and pCR rate (nivolumab 51%, pembrolizumab 38%) than other immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
CONCLUSION: Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy demonstrates clinical benefits for patients with stage III NSCLC.
Additional Links: PMID-41029573
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41029573,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, X and He, Y and Guo, T and Fang, J and Chen, S and Zhang, Q and Lin, Y and Xu, N and Pan, X and Li, H},
title = {The efficacy analysis of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy followed by surgery in stage III locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC cancer},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1443},
pmid = {41029573},
issn = {1471-2407},
support = {2021CXA001//Research on intelligent recommendation decision model of geriatrics based on big data/ ; 00902409//Research on the development and prevention and control strategies of key viral infectious diseases in the post-COVID-19 era/ ; 82002457//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2019-ZQNB-1//the Young and Middle-aged Backbone Research Fund of Fujian Provincial Health Care Commission/ ; 2023J01117//the Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province/ ; 2020Y9023//Fujian Provincial Medical Science and Technology Innovation Joint Fund Project/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/pathology/therapy/drug therapy/mortality/surgery ; *Lung Neoplasms/pathology/therapy/drug therapy/mortality ; *Neoadjuvant Therapy/methods ; Neoplasm Staging ; Treatment Outcome ; Immunotherapy/methods ; Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Pneumonectomy ; *Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has the potential for surgical cure after neoadjuvant immunotherapy in the era of immunotherapy. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of published data to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy for stage III NSCLC.
METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted on the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from January, 2000 to September, 2024 to identify studies concentrated on neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy followed by surgery for treating stage III NSCLC. The effectiveness and safety data were collected for meta-analysis. Study endpoints included resection rate, major pathological response (MPR), pathological complete response (pCR), objective response rate (ORR), treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), severe adverse events (SAEs). Data analysis was conducted using R 4.1.3 software, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
RESULTS: A total of 1043 patients from 22 studies were included in this meta-analysis, of whom 892 cases underwent surgery. The pooled MPR rate, pCR rate, and ORR rate were 65%, 38%, and 73%, respectively. The pooled incidence of TRAEs was 84% and the pooled incidence of SAEs was 13%. The results of the subgroup analysis showed that nivolumab- and pembrolizumab-based neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy showed a higher MPR rate (nivolumab 69%, pembrolizumab 68%) and pCR rate (nivolumab 51%, pembrolizumab 38%) than other immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
CONCLUSION: Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy demonstrates clinical benefits for patients with stage III NSCLC.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/pathology/therapy/drug therapy/mortality/surgery
*Lung Neoplasms/pathology/therapy/drug therapy/mortality
*Neoadjuvant Therapy/methods
Neoplasm Staging
Treatment Outcome
Immunotherapy/methods
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use
Pneumonectomy
*Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
Effects of home-based exercise on the mental and physical health of older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Aging & mental health, 29(10):1746-1763.
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyze the effects of home-based exercise programs on the mental and physical health of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
METHOD: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and Embase until June 2024. In total, 14 Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) were included.
RESULTS: Home-based exercise presented a small effect on depressive symptoms (standard mean difference [SMD]: -0.38; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: -0.65 to -0.12) and a large effect on dynamic balance [SMD]: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.49 to 1.13). No effects were found for home-based exercise on other outcomes.
CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis found that home-based exercise was effective in reducing depression and improving dynamic balance in older adults. However, further studies are needed due to methodological issues related to the intervention and some concerns identified about the risk of bias.
PROSPERO NUMBER: CRD42023397441.
Additional Links: PMID-41027462
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41027462,
year = {2025},
author = {Nunes NĂłra de Souza, L and Coimbra, DR and Bueno, JCA and Andrade, A},
title = {Effects of home-based exercise on the mental and physical health of older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.},
journal = {Aging & mental health},
volume = {29},
number = {10},
pages = {1746-1763},
doi = {10.1080/13607863.2025.2541186},
pmid = {41027462},
issn = {1364-6915},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Depression/therapy/prevention & control ; *Exercise Therapy/methods ; *Mental Health ; Postural Balance/physiology ; *Exercise ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyze the effects of home-based exercise programs on the mental and physical health of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
METHOD: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and Embase until June 2024. In total, 14 Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) were included.
RESULTS: Home-based exercise presented a small effect on depressive symptoms (standard mean difference [SMD]: -0.38; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: -0.65 to -0.12) and a large effect on dynamic balance [SMD]: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.49 to 1.13). No effects were found for home-based exercise on other outcomes.
CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis found that home-based exercise was effective in reducing depression and improving dynamic balance in older adults. However, further studies are needed due to methodological issues related to the intervention and some concerns identified about the risk of bias.
PROSPERO NUMBER: CRD42023397441.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Aged
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19/psychology
*Depression/therapy/prevention & control
*Exercise Therapy/methods
*Mental Health
Postural Balance/physiology
*Exercise
RevDate: 2025-09-30
Crisis and Post-Crisis Virtual Mental Health Care: A Scoping Review.
Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association [Epub ahead of print].
Objectives: Crisis services are often a first point of contact for individuals needing mental health assessment and intervention. The rapid expansion of virtual care in recent years has enabled remote assessment and introduced novel ways to support crisis stabilization in the community. This scoping review aims to summarize the extent of the literature on virtual crisis assessment and intervention models. Methods: PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and ProQuest databases were searched for English- and French-language literature published between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2024. Database search results were imported into the online Covidence review management program. A minimum of two reviewers screened titles and abstracts. Target information was extracted from included full texts and summarized thematically across study characteristics and outcomes. Results: A total of 5,345 titles were reviewed, with 45 publications included. Publications represented models from around the globe supporting youth and/or adult service users. Data synthesis highlighted the feasibility and potential for virtual care models supporting comprehensive crisis assessment (services that go beyond hotline de-escalation and triage), inpatient admission alternatives, and post-crisis follow-up. Conclusion: The available literature suggests that virtual crisis care options are growing, especially during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although few rigorous evaluations exist, there is strong evidence of feasibility with emerging and encouraging evidence for effectiveness. Further research focused on outcomes, comparisons of virtual and in-person models, and cost-effectiveness is warranted. Additional research could focus on virtual care models for the geriatric population, which is underrepresented in the available literature.
Additional Links: PMID-41027405
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41027405,
year = {2025},
author = {Lemoine, J and Svenne, S and Ulrich, R and Hensel, J},
title = {Crisis and Post-Crisis Virtual Mental Health Care: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1177/15305627251381632},
pmid = {41027405},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {Objectives: Crisis services are often a first point of contact for individuals needing mental health assessment and intervention. The rapid expansion of virtual care in recent years has enabled remote assessment and introduced novel ways to support crisis stabilization in the community. This scoping review aims to summarize the extent of the literature on virtual crisis assessment and intervention models. Methods: PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and ProQuest databases were searched for English- and French-language literature published between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2024. Database search results were imported into the online Covidence review management program. A minimum of two reviewers screened titles and abstracts. Target information was extracted from included full texts and summarized thematically across study characteristics and outcomes. Results: A total of 5,345 titles were reviewed, with 45 publications included. Publications represented models from around the globe supporting youth and/or adult service users. Data synthesis highlighted the feasibility and potential for virtual care models supporting comprehensive crisis assessment (services that go beyond hotline de-escalation and triage), inpatient admission alternatives, and post-crisis follow-up. Conclusion: The available literature suggests that virtual crisis care options are growing, especially during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although few rigorous evaluations exist, there is strong evidence of feasibility with emerging and encouraging evidence for effectiveness. Further research focused on outcomes, comparisons of virtual and in-person models, and cost-effectiveness is warranted. Additional research could focus on virtual care models for the geriatric population, which is underrepresented in the available literature.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
Brazilian guide for the diagnosis of severe community-acquired pneumonia and hospital-acquired pneumonia.
Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 80:100793 pii:S1807-5932(25)00211-X [Epub ahead of print].
UNLABELLED: Pneumonia is one of the main causes of intensive care unit admission and death in Brazil. There is a need to standardize the use of microbiological tests for the diagnosis of pneumonia.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate microbiological diagnostic data for severe pneumonia.
METHOD: Comparative studies that evaluated the microbiological diagnosis of community pneumonia and hospital-acquired pneumonia were analyzed. The literature review was guided by two questions and used flowcharts prepared by experts.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Diagnostic tests for pneumonia should be requested based on the severity of the disease, the patient´s immune status, and the risk of infection by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Gram staining may aid in excluding S. aureus pneumonia and evaluating the quality of respiratory samples, while culture of these clinical samples may identify the infectious agent in up to half of the cases and allow antimicrobial susceptibility testing to be carried out. Blood cultures have a low sensitivity but may be useful for diagnosing extrapulmonary infections or situations involving sepsis or septic shock. Rapid molecular panels have high sensitivity and specificity for viral and bacterial targets for both types of pneumonia, and their use can reduce the length of hospital and intensive care stays and allow optimization of antimicrobial therapy. RT-PCR is highly accurate in diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia.
CONCLUSION: The rational use of molecular panels for the diagnosis of severe pneumonia can reduce the length of hospital and intensive care stays and 90-day mortality.
Additional Links: PMID-41027283
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41027283,
year = {2025},
author = {Mello Sampaio, JL and Cunha, A and Lima Santos, DWC and Junior, AP},
title = {Brazilian guide for the diagnosis of severe community-acquired pneumonia and hospital-acquired pneumonia.},
journal = {Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {100793},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinsp.2025.100793},
pmid = {41027283},
issn = {1980-5322},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Pneumonia is one of the main causes of intensive care unit admission and death in Brazil. There is a need to standardize the use of microbiological tests for the diagnosis of pneumonia.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate microbiological diagnostic data for severe pneumonia.
METHOD: Comparative studies that evaluated the microbiological diagnosis of community pneumonia and hospital-acquired pneumonia were analyzed. The literature review was guided by two questions and used flowcharts prepared by experts.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Diagnostic tests for pneumonia should be requested based on the severity of the disease, the patient´s immune status, and the risk of infection by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Gram staining may aid in excluding S. aureus pneumonia and evaluating the quality of respiratory samples, while culture of these clinical samples may identify the infectious agent in up to half of the cases and allow antimicrobial susceptibility testing to be carried out. Blood cultures have a low sensitivity but may be useful for diagnosing extrapulmonary infections or situations involving sepsis or septic shock. Rapid molecular panels have high sensitivity and specificity for viral and bacterial targets for both types of pneumonia, and their use can reduce the length of hospital and intensive care stays and allow optimization of antimicrobial therapy. RT-PCR is highly accurate in diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia.
CONCLUSION: The rational use of molecular panels for the diagnosis of severe pneumonia can reduce the length of hospital and intensive care stays and 90-day mortality.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
MAP4K3/GLK: Structure, molecular pharmacology and drug development.
Bioorganic chemistry, 165:109043 pii:S0045-2068(25)00923-X [Epub ahead of print].
GLK (also known as MAP4K3), classified as a member of the MAP4K family, is a Ste20-like serine/threonine kinase. GLK plays a pivotal role in multiple cellular signaling pathways, including TCR-mediated immune responses, as well as the JNK, mTOR, and NF-ÎșB signaling pathways. Due to its critical role in these key regulatory networks, GLK has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, aging, and COVID-19 infection. Consequently, GLK represents a promising molecular target for the development of novel therapeutic interventions for immunotherapy and oncotherapy. This review comprehensively summarizes the signaling pathways and human diseases regulated by GLK, focusing on GLK protein kinase structure, GLK-specific regulators, and profiling strategies for developing GLK-specific small-molecule inhibitors.
Additional Links: PMID-41027235
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41027235,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Yan, X and Li, H and Shen, Y and Yun, C and Zhang, J},
title = {MAP4K3/GLK: Structure, molecular pharmacology and drug development.},
journal = {Bioorganic chemistry},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {109043},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioorg.2025.109043},
pmid = {41027235},
issn = {1090-2120},
abstract = {GLK (also known as MAP4K3), classified as a member of the MAP4K family, is a Ste20-like serine/threonine kinase. GLK plays a pivotal role in multiple cellular signaling pathways, including TCR-mediated immune responses, as well as the JNK, mTOR, and NF-ÎșB signaling pathways. Due to its critical role in these key regulatory networks, GLK has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, aging, and COVID-19 infection. Consequently, GLK represents a promising molecular target for the development of novel therapeutic interventions for immunotherapy and oncotherapy. This review comprehensively summarizes the signaling pathways and human diseases regulated by GLK, focusing on GLK protein kinase structure, GLK-specific regulators, and profiling strategies for developing GLK-specific small-molecule inhibitors.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
Always on duty - Fostering climate resilience in the nursing profession: A discussion paper.
International journal of nursing studies, 172:105227 pii:S0020-7489(25)00237-8 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND & PURPOSE: As with the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, climate change is a global phenomenon reshaping the nursing profession. While nursing organizations have produced numerous position statements on nursing and climate change, these tend to focus exclusively on the profession's important role in mitigating and adapting health systems and providing climate-informed patient care. However, to adequately prepare for the acceleration of climate change impacts, we also need to focus on supporting the health and wellbeing of the nursing workforce. The purpose of this discussion paper is to examine key areas of climate vulnerability for nursing and provide recommendations that address these factors.
DISCUSSION: We consider three factors that may negatively impact on nurses' health and well-being in relation to climate change. First, there are social locations at the individual and population level, in particular gender, as the majority of nurses are women, and age, as the global workforce is aging. Both of these social locations are well documented areas of climate vulnerability. Second, the aging infrastructure of healthcare facilities puts nurses at risk by exposing them to harmful environments, such as extreme heat and poor air quality. Third, there are consequences for nurses' mental health as a result of providing care during climate-related weather emergencies and growing awareness of the impacts of climate change.
RECOMMENDATIONS: In response to these risk factors, we recommend urgent actions that will support and promote nurses' health and well-being. For example, workplace policies and environments should be adjusted to address the unique healthcare issues of an aging workforce that is primarily women. As well, actions that promote climate-resilient healthcare systems are needed. These actions include updating physical infrastructures as well as ensuring adequate staffing during climate-related weather emergencies. There is also a pressing need for interventions that provide mental health supports and psychological safety in the workplace for nurses.
Additional Links: PMID-41027126
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41027126,
year = {2025},
author = {Baumbusch, J and Sloan Yip, I and Bandara, NA},
title = {Always on duty - Fostering climate resilience in the nursing profession: A discussion paper.},
journal = {International journal of nursing studies},
volume = {172},
number = {},
pages = {105227},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2025.105227},
pmid = {41027126},
issn = {1873-491X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND & PURPOSE: As with the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, climate change is a global phenomenon reshaping the nursing profession. While nursing organizations have produced numerous position statements on nursing and climate change, these tend to focus exclusively on the profession's important role in mitigating and adapting health systems and providing climate-informed patient care. However, to adequately prepare for the acceleration of climate change impacts, we also need to focus on supporting the health and wellbeing of the nursing workforce. The purpose of this discussion paper is to examine key areas of climate vulnerability for nursing and provide recommendations that address these factors.
DISCUSSION: We consider three factors that may negatively impact on nurses' health and well-being in relation to climate change. First, there are social locations at the individual and population level, in particular gender, as the majority of nurses are women, and age, as the global workforce is aging. Both of these social locations are well documented areas of climate vulnerability. Second, the aging infrastructure of healthcare facilities puts nurses at risk by exposing them to harmful environments, such as extreme heat and poor air quality. Third, there are consequences for nurses' mental health as a result of providing care during climate-related weather emergencies and growing awareness of the impacts of climate change.
RECOMMENDATIONS: In response to these risk factors, we recommend urgent actions that will support and promote nurses' health and well-being. For example, workplace policies and environments should be adjusted to address the unique healthcare issues of an aging workforce that is primarily women. As well, actions that promote climate-resilient healthcare systems are needed. These actions include updating physical infrastructures as well as ensuring adequate staffing during climate-related weather emergencies. There is also a pressing need for interventions that provide mental health supports and psychological safety in the workplace for nurses.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
Emerging and Re-emerging viral infections and their ocular manifestations: A focus on ocular neovascularization.
Molecular aspects of medicine, 106:101396 pii:S0098-2997(25)00060-3 [Epub ahead of print].
Emerging and re-emerging viral infections represent a significant and escalating global health concern, frequently associated with a spectrum of systemic complications. Among these, ocular manifestations are increasingly recognized, contributing substantially to visual morbidity. The present review aims to provide an overview of the ocular sequelae of major emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens, highlighting their suggested and established roles in ocular neovascularization (ONV). It discusses the virological and immunological mechanisms, including direct viral cytopathic effects, virally-induced inflammation, dysregulation of angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors (e.g., Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), and activation of hypoxia-inducible pathways, which can contribute to neovascular processes in various ocular compartments such as the cornea, iris, retina, and choroid. The major viral agents addressed in this review are Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), West Nile virus (WNV), Dengue Virus (DENV), and other viruses with known or suspected ONV association. This study reviewed and summarized the literature regarding case reports and experimental models describing the association of these viral agents with ONV. Furthermore, it addresses diagnostic considerations and therapeutic strategies. Understanding the intricate interplay between these viral infections and ocular neovascular pathways is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to prevent vision loss in affected populations.
Additional Links: PMID-41027080
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@article {pmid41027080,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, D and Ye, Q and Bai, J and Wan, W},
title = {Emerging and Re-emerging viral infections and their ocular manifestations: A focus on ocular neovascularization.},
journal = {Molecular aspects of medicine},
volume = {106},
number = {},
pages = {101396},
doi = {10.1016/j.mam.2025.101396},
pmid = {41027080},
issn = {1872-9452},
abstract = {Emerging and re-emerging viral infections represent a significant and escalating global health concern, frequently associated with a spectrum of systemic complications. Among these, ocular manifestations are increasingly recognized, contributing substantially to visual morbidity. The present review aims to provide an overview of the ocular sequelae of major emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens, highlighting their suggested and established roles in ocular neovascularization (ONV). It discusses the virological and immunological mechanisms, including direct viral cytopathic effects, virally-induced inflammation, dysregulation of angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors (e.g., Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), and activation of hypoxia-inducible pathways, which can contribute to neovascular processes in various ocular compartments such as the cornea, iris, retina, and choroid. The major viral agents addressed in this review are Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), West Nile virus (WNV), Dengue Virus (DENV), and other viruses with known or suspected ONV association. This study reviewed and summarized the literature regarding case reports and experimental models describing the association of these viral agents with ONV. Furthermore, it addresses diagnostic considerations and therapeutic strategies. Understanding the intricate interplay between these viral infections and ocular neovascular pathways is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to prevent vision loss in affected populations.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
Methods of Pediatric Post-COVID Condition Studies in High-Impact Journals: A Systematic Review.
JAMA network open, 8(9):e2529659 pii:2839486.
IMPORTANCE: Preexisting health conditions complicate post-COVID condition diagnosis in children and adolescents, while the lack of standardized clinical phenotypes challenges its definition and epidemiological estimates. Prospective studies with robust methodologies are needed to minimize bias and confounders, yet they remain scarce in high-impact factor journals.
OBJECTIVE: To review, characterize, and assess the methodology used in studies examining post-COVID condition in children and pediatric populations in highly cited studies, which have greater visibility and are likely to be used in informing policy.
EVIDENCE REVIEW: Studies on PubMed and studies with high citations on Web of Science published through July 2024 were reviewed. Pediatric studies from journals with an impact factor of 5 or higher were included if they employed observational or risk-benefit designs. Studies were classified based on whether they included a SARS-CoV-2 test-negative control group or a non-test-negative group, which included studies with either no comparator or a different type of comparator. Joanna Briggs Institute and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Exposures tools assessed the risk of bias.
FINDINGS: Of 426 publications, 24 were analyzed; 9 studies (38%) used test-negative controls, while 15 studies (63%) did not (P < .001). Among studies with test-negative groups, 4 (44%) used prospective cohort designs vs 5 (33%) studies without a test-negative group. Demographic reporting of post-COVID condition cases varied. Sex was reported in 12 studies (50%), but the median (IQR) sample size was small (27 female patients [14-110]; 21 male patients [10-79]). Psychiatric history was often not reported (20 patients [83%]), as well as a lack of history of comorbidities (16 patients [67%]) or body mass index (15 patients [63%]). Among 9 test-negative control studies, 4 (44%) used matched control design, while only 1 (11%) accounted for confounders by sex-stratifying results.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: These findings highlight the need for rigorous study designs that minimize bias and confounding, ensuring a clearer definition of pediatric post-COVID condition and its sequelae. Employing true test-negative matched controls is essential for distinguishing common symptoms and assessing risk factors, while standardizing demographic reporting strengthens comparability and ensures consistency in patient selection.
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@article {pmid41026493,
year = {2025},
author = {Rozelle, M and Haslam, A and Prasad, V},
title = {Methods of Pediatric Post-COVID Condition Studies in High-Impact Journals: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {JAMA network open},
volume = {8},
number = {9},
pages = {e2529659},
doi = {10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.29659},
pmid = {41026493},
issn = {2574-3805},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Journal Impact Factor ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; *Research Design ; Male ; Pediatrics ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Preexisting health conditions complicate post-COVID condition diagnosis in children and adolescents, while the lack of standardized clinical phenotypes challenges its definition and epidemiological estimates. Prospective studies with robust methodologies are needed to minimize bias and confounders, yet they remain scarce in high-impact factor journals.
OBJECTIVE: To review, characterize, and assess the methodology used in studies examining post-COVID condition in children and pediatric populations in highly cited studies, which have greater visibility and are likely to be used in informing policy.
EVIDENCE REVIEW: Studies on PubMed and studies with high citations on Web of Science published through July 2024 were reviewed. Pediatric studies from journals with an impact factor of 5 or higher were included if they employed observational or risk-benefit designs. Studies were classified based on whether they included a SARS-CoV-2 test-negative control group or a non-test-negative group, which included studies with either no comparator or a different type of comparator. Joanna Briggs Institute and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Exposures tools assessed the risk of bias.
FINDINGS: Of 426 publications, 24 were analyzed; 9 studies (38%) used test-negative controls, while 15 studies (63%) did not (P < .001). Among studies with test-negative groups, 4 (44%) used prospective cohort designs vs 5 (33%) studies without a test-negative group. Demographic reporting of post-COVID condition cases varied. Sex was reported in 12 studies (50%), but the median (IQR) sample size was small (27 female patients [14-110]; 21 male patients [10-79]). Psychiatric history was often not reported (20 patients [83%]), as well as a lack of history of comorbidities (16 patients [67%]) or body mass index (15 patients [63%]). Among 9 test-negative control studies, 4 (44%) used matched control design, while only 1 (11%) accounted for confounders by sex-stratifying results.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: These findings highlight the need for rigorous study designs that minimize bias and confounding, ensuring a clearer definition of pediatric post-COVID condition and its sequelae. Employing true test-negative matched controls is essential for distinguishing common symptoms and assessing risk factors, while standardizing demographic reporting strengthens comparability and ensures consistency in patient selection.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Child
Adolescent
*Journal Impact Factor
SARS-CoV-2
Female
*Research Design
Male
Pediatrics
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
Communicating wastewater-based surveillance data to drive action.
Journal of water and health, 23(9):1095-1108.
As exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) can deliver near real-time, population-level pathogen data to guide public health action. Its impact, however, hinges on timely, transparent, and context-specific communication to stakeholders, including health authorities, policymakers, scientists, clinicians, and the public. This review examines current WBS communication practices, identifies persistent challenges, and proposes strategies to enhance relevance. Key challenges include data complexity, lack of standardised communication frameworks, ethical and privacy concerns, and variable stakeholder capabilities. The strategic use of digital platforms, such as dashboards, reports, press releases, and social media, alongside traditional media, can broaden reach and aid interpretation. Rapid, accurate, and empathetic communication is essential during health crises to maintain trust and counter misinformation. Standardised messaging, simplified data visualisations, and integration with clinical surveillance systems enhance credibility and usability. Strengthening cross-sector collaboration, improving data interpretation, and translating findings into actionable insights are essential to maximising the public health benefits of WBS. Immediate efforts should prioritise building globally coordinated, adaptive communication networks that can evolve alongside surveillance technologies and emerging health threats. Overall, the review underscores the key role of strategic communication in advancing WBS for global health preparedness and optimising public health actions.
Additional Links: PMID-41026135
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@article {pmid41026135,
year = {2025},
author = {Farkas, K and Kaya, D and Maal-Bared, R and Al-Mustapha, AI and Tandukar, S and Keenum, I and Gunnar, T and Bivins, A and J Wade, M and Bibby, K and PitkÀnen, TM and Tiwari, A},
title = {Communicating wastewater-based surveillance data to drive action.},
journal = {Journal of water and health},
volume = {23},
number = {9},
pages = {1095-1108},
pmid = {41026135},
issn = {1477-8920},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Wastewater/virology ; *Communication ; Public Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring ; *Information Dissemination ; },
abstract = {As exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) can deliver near real-time, population-level pathogen data to guide public health action. Its impact, however, hinges on timely, transparent, and context-specific communication to stakeholders, including health authorities, policymakers, scientists, clinicians, and the public. This review examines current WBS communication practices, identifies persistent challenges, and proposes strategies to enhance relevance. Key challenges include data complexity, lack of standardised communication frameworks, ethical and privacy concerns, and variable stakeholder capabilities. The strategic use of digital platforms, such as dashboards, reports, press releases, and social media, alongside traditional media, can broaden reach and aid interpretation. Rapid, accurate, and empathetic communication is essential during health crises to maintain trust and counter misinformation. Standardised messaging, simplified data visualisations, and integration with clinical surveillance systems enhance credibility and usability. Strengthening cross-sector collaboration, improving data interpretation, and translating findings into actionable insights are essential to maximising the public health benefits of WBS. Immediate efforts should prioritise building globally coordinated, adaptive communication networks that can evolve alongside surveillance technologies and emerging health threats. Overall, the review underscores the key role of strategic communication in advancing WBS for global health preparedness and optimising public health actions.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Wastewater/virology
*Communication
Public Health
SARS-CoV-2
*Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring
*Information Dissemination
RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01
The Effect of COVID-19 Lockdown Among Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Current diabetes reviews, 21(10):95-107.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess how the lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic had affected the glycaemic control of adolescents aged 10-19 with type 1 diabetes.
METHODS: A comprehensive search of literature was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest. Published articles up to September 2022 were included. The Glucose Monitoring Index (GMI) and HbA1c level were defined as outcome variables. Average glucose level was found to be a common variable in both HbA1c levels and GMI; therefore, HbA1c and GMI were converted to average glucose (mg/dL) using appropriate formulas. Studies reported the outcomes in two or three periods (pre-lockdown, lockdown, and post-lockdown) were included in the analysis. A paired wise meta-analysis was performed among the studies that reported all three periods. Homogeneity across studies was assessed using I2 statistic.
RESULT: Fourteen studies were included in the study. The pooled average glucose during the lockdown decreased to 166.9 mg/dL (95% CI, 153.78, 180.02) from 205.793 mg/dL (95% CI, 188.412, 223.173) during the pre-lockdown period, then it increased to 204.23 mg/dL (95% CI, 186.17, 222.29) during the post-lockdown period. A paired wise meta-analysis indicated a reduction in average glucose levels. However, it was not statistically significant, possibly due to the small number of studies that reported data from all three periods.
CONCLUSION: Although the descriptive analysis of our study showed that the lockdown had affected (decreased) the average glucose level among adolescents with type 1 diabetes, this was not statistically significant in the pooled analysis.
Additional Links: PMID-39360539
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Citation:
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@article {pmid39360539,
year = {2025},
author = {Momani, A and Halimi, A and Nazari, SSH and Al-Marzouqi, Z and Jarrahi, AM and Al-Yateem, N and Rahman, SA and Al-Marzouqi, A},
title = {The Effect of COVID-19 Lockdown Among Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Current diabetes reviews},
volume = {21},
number = {10},
pages = {95-107},
pmid = {39360539},
issn = {1875-6417},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/blood/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Adolescent ; Blood Glucose/analysis/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Glycated Hemoglobin/analysis/metabolism ; Child ; *Quarantine ; Glycemic Control ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess how the lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic had affected the glycaemic control of adolescents aged 10-19 with type 1 diabetes.
METHODS: A comprehensive search of literature was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest. Published articles up to September 2022 were included. The Glucose Monitoring Index (GMI) and HbA1c level were defined as outcome variables. Average glucose level was found to be a common variable in both HbA1c levels and GMI; therefore, HbA1c and GMI were converted to average glucose (mg/dL) using appropriate formulas. Studies reported the outcomes in two or three periods (pre-lockdown, lockdown, and post-lockdown) were included in the analysis. A paired wise meta-analysis was performed among the studies that reported all three periods. Homogeneity across studies was assessed using I2 statistic.
RESULT: Fourteen studies were included in the study. The pooled average glucose during the lockdown decreased to 166.9 mg/dL (95% CI, 153.78, 180.02) from 205.793 mg/dL (95% CI, 188.412, 223.173) during the pre-lockdown period, then it increased to 204.23 mg/dL (95% CI, 186.17, 222.29) during the post-lockdown period. A paired wise meta-analysis indicated a reduction in average glucose levels. However, it was not statistically significant, possibly due to the small number of studies that reported data from all three periods.
CONCLUSION: Although the descriptive analysis of our study showed that the lockdown had affected (decreased) the average glucose level among adolescents with type 1 diabetes, this was not statistically significant in the pooled analysis.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/blood/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Adolescent
Blood Glucose/analysis/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Glycated Hemoglobin/analysis/metabolism
Child
*Quarantine
Glycemic Control
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
Real-life practice of Kelleni's protocol in treatment and post exposure prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 HV.1 and JN.1 subvariants.
World journal of virology, 14(3):107903.
This article discusses the evolving real-world practice using nitazoxanide, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or azithromycin (Kelleni's protocol) to manage the evolving manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron EG.5.1, its descendant HV.1 as well as BA.2.86 and its descendant JN.1 subvariants in Egypt in 2024. These subvariants are well-known for their highly evolved immune-evasive properties and the manifestations include some peculiar manifestations as persistent cough besides high fever in young children as well as high fever, persistent severe cough, change of voice, loss of taste and smell, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, generalized malaise and marked bone aches in adults including the high-risk groups. It's suggested that the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 evolution is continuing to mostly affect the high-risk groups of patients, to some of whom we've also successfully prescribed nitazoxanide and/or NSAIDs for post-exposure prophylaxis of all household contacts. We also continue to recommend starting the immune-modulatory antiviral Kelleni's protocol as soon as possible in the course of infection and adjusting it in a personalized manner to be more aggressive from the beginning for the high risk patients, at least until the currently encountered surge of infections subsides.
Additional Links: PMID-41025094
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@article {pmid41025094,
year = {2025},
author = {Kelleni, MT},
title = {Real-life practice of Kelleni's protocol in treatment and post exposure prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 HV.1 and JN.1 subvariants.},
journal = {World journal of virology},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {107903},
doi = {10.5501/wjv.v14.i3.107903},
pmid = {41025094},
issn = {2220-3249},
abstract = {This article discusses the evolving real-world practice using nitazoxanide, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or azithromycin (Kelleni's protocol) to manage the evolving manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron EG.5.1, its descendant HV.1 as well as BA.2.86 and its descendant JN.1 subvariants in Egypt in 2024. These subvariants are well-known for their highly evolved immune-evasive properties and the manifestations include some peculiar manifestations as persistent cough besides high fever in young children as well as high fever, persistent severe cough, change of voice, loss of taste and smell, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, generalized malaise and marked bone aches in adults including the high-risk groups. It's suggested that the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 evolution is continuing to mostly affect the high-risk groups of patients, to some of whom we've also successfully prescribed nitazoxanide and/or NSAIDs for post-exposure prophylaxis of all household contacts. We also continue to recommend starting the immune-modulatory antiviral Kelleni's protocol as soon as possible in the course of infection and adjusting it in a personalized manner to be more aggressive from the beginning for the high risk patients, at least until the currently encountered surge of infections subsides.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
Gut microbiome and viral infections: A hidden nexus for immune protection.
World journal of virology, 14(3):111912.
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses, influencing susceptibility to viral infections, shaping disease progression, and its outcomes. Emerging research highlights the intricate relationship between gut microbial communities and viral pathogenesis, demonstrating that dysbiosis can compromise antiviral defenses while a balanced microbiome enhances immune resilience. This review explores key microbial mechanisms, including microbiome-mediated immune modulation, interactions with viral replication, and the impact of microbiome on systemic inflammation, highlighting how dietary interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and bioactive compounds, offer potential strategies to modulate gut microbiota and mitigate viral infections. Special emphasis is placed on viruses affecting the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, norovirus, and influenza. Furthermore, we explore how nutrition-driven microbiome interventions may serve as adjunct therapeutic strategies, improving vaccine efficacy and post-viral recovery. Understanding the role of gut microbiome in viral infections can pave the way for microbiome-driven strategies to combat viral diseases and improve overall health outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-41025090
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@article {pmid41025090,
year = {2025},
author = {Gavkare, AM and Nanaware, NL and Sonar, MN and Dhotre, SV and Mumbre, SS and Nagoba, BS},
title = {Gut microbiome and viral infections: A hidden nexus for immune protection.},
journal = {World journal of virology},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {111912},
doi = {10.5501/wjv.v14.i3.111912},
pmid = {41025090},
issn = {2220-3249},
abstract = {The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses, influencing susceptibility to viral infections, shaping disease progression, and its outcomes. Emerging research highlights the intricate relationship between gut microbial communities and viral pathogenesis, demonstrating that dysbiosis can compromise antiviral defenses while a balanced microbiome enhances immune resilience. This review explores key microbial mechanisms, including microbiome-mediated immune modulation, interactions with viral replication, and the impact of microbiome on systemic inflammation, highlighting how dietary interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and bioactive compounds, offer potential strategies to modulate gut microbiota and mitigate viral infections. Special emphasis is placed on viruses affecting the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, norovirus, and influenza. Furthermore, we explore how nutrition-driven microbiome interventions may serve as adjunct therapeutic strategies, improving vaccine efficacy and post-viral recovery. Understanding the role of gut microbiome in viral infections can pave the way for microbiome-driven strategies to combat viral diseases and improve overall health outcomes.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
The role of corticosteroids in the management of non-COVID-19 severe community-acquired pneumonia in the intensive care unit: A narrative review.
Journal of the Intensive Care Society pii:10.1177_17511437251374816 [Epub ahead of print].
Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP) is associated with a significant health burden, both in the UK and globally, with intensive care support needed for many patients. The high morbidity and mortality associated with sCAP has led to the exploration of adjunctive therapies that may help reduce disease burden and improve clinical outcomes. One such proposed treatment is corticosteroids, aiming to moderate the disproportionate inflammation caused by sCAP. Despite several studies suggesting potential benefits, the use of corticosteroids in patients with sCAP remains contentious, with recent large trials producing conflicting results. These variations in trial outcomes have resulted in conflicting national and international guidelines. Such discrepancies align with findings from a recent national survey that indicated ongoing clinical uncertainty regarding the use of corticosteroids for sCAP in UK intensive care units. Several factors contribute to these conflicting outcomes, including patient population, the severity classification utilised, the type and duration of interventions provided, and, perhaps most importantly, the lack of pre-phenotyping to identify patients who may benefit most from the treatment. This narrative review aims to examine the recent literature, current guidelines, and evidence for using corticosteroids in sCAP, while exploring the candidate phenotypes of relevance in the design of clinical trials.
Additional Links: PMID-41025000
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@article {pmid41025000,
year = {2025},
author = {Terrington, I and Cox, O and Copley, P and Eastwood, B and Webb, E and McKenzie, C and Saeed, K and Conway-Morris, A and Grocott, MPW and Dushianthan, A},
title = {The role of corticosteroids in the management of non-COVID-19 severe community-acquired pneumonia in the intensive care unit: A narrative review.},
journal = {Journal of the Intensive Care Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {17511437251374816},
doi = {10.1177/17511437251374816},
pmid = {41025000},
issn = {1751-1437},
abstract = {Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP) is associated with a significant health burden, both in the UK and globally, with intensive care support needed for many patients. The high morbidity and mortality associated with sCAP has led to the exploration of adjunctive therapies that may help reduce disease burden and improve clinical outcomes. One such proposed treatment is corticosteroids, aiming to moderate the disproportionate inflammation caused by sCAP. Despite several studies suggesting potential benefits, the use of corticosteroids in patients with sCAP remains contentious, with recent large trials producing conflicting results. These variations in trial outcomes have resulted in conflicting national and international guidelines. Such discrepancies align with findings from a recent national survey that indicated ongoing clinical uncertainty regarding the use of corticosteroids for sCAP in UK intensive care units. Several factors contribute to these conflicting outcomes, including patient population, the severity classification utilised, the type and duration of interventions provided, and, perhaps most importantly, the lack of pre-phenotyping to identify patients who may benefit most from the treatment. This narrative review aims to examine the recent literature, current guidelines, and evidence for using corticosteroids in sCAP, while exploring the candidate phenotypes of relevance in the design of clinical trials.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
Kidney involvement and anemia in COVID-19 infection.
World journal of nephrology, 14(3):107582.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has infected > 700 million people and led to > 7 million deaths worldwide. Although COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs, it can also affect the kidneys through various pathways. SARS-CoV-2 affects the kidney via several common mechanisms, such as dysregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, transmembrane serine protease 2 and tissue proteinase L expression in kidney tissue. People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and COVID-19 have an increased risk of mortality and hospitalization in the intensive care unit. Anemia, a common consequence of CKD, is also associated with worsening outcomes in COVID-19 patients. In these patients with multiple comorbidities, there is a sharp increase in D-dimers, inflammatory parameters, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. COVID-19 patients also present with resistance to erythropoietin (EPO)-stimulating agents, which necessitates elevated dosages even several months post-infection. In CKD, anemia is exacerbated by decreased EPO production, red blood cell (RBC) fragmentation due to impairment of the renovascular endothelium in situations such as glomerulopathy and malignant hypertension. Other factors include iron and/or folic acid deficiency, bleeding due to platelet dysfunction, inflammation, reduced RBC lifespan, poor iron utilization, uremia, and atypical blood loss after dialysis. Excessive hepcidin synthesis impairs the absorption of dietary iron and the mobilization of iron from endogenous reserves, thus contributing significantly to anemia and poor iron regulation in CKD. These findings suggest that CKD may contribute to the occurrence of anemia in COVID-19 patients, especially in older people with comorbidities. Our review aims to explore the complex relationship between CKD, COVID-19 and anemia to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of the disease and the potential cofactors that worsen outcomes in these patients.
Additional Links: PMID-41024950
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@article {pmid41024950,
year = {2025},
author = {Gembillo, G and Peritore, L and Spadaro, G and Cuzzola, F and Calderone, M and Messina, R and Di Piazza, S and Sudano, F and Gambuzza, ME and Princiotto, M and Soraci, L and Santoro, D},
title = {Kidney involvement and anemia in COVID-19 infection.},
journal = {World journal of nephrology},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {107582},
doi = {10.5527/wjn.v14.i3.107582},
pmid = {41024950},
issn = {2220-6124},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has infected > 700 million people and led to > 7 million deaths worldwide. Although COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs, it can also affect the kidneys through various pathways. SARS-CoV-2 affects the kidney via several common mechanisms, such as dysregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, transmembrane serine protease 2 and tissue proteinase L expression in kidney tissue. People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and COVID-19 have an increased risk of mortality and hospitalization in the intensive care unit. Anemia, a common consequence of CKD, is also associated with worsening outcomes in COVID-19 patients. In these patients with multiple comorbidities, there is a sharp increase in D-dimers, inflammatory parameters, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. COVID-19 patients also present with resistance to erythropoietin (EPO)-stimulating agents, which necessitates elevated dosages even several months post-infection. In CKD, anemia is exacerbated by decreased EPO production, red blood cell (RBC) fragmentation due to impairment of the renovascular endothelium in situations such as glomerulopathy and malignant hypertension. Other factors include iron and/or folic acid deficiency, bleeding due to platelet dysfunction, inflammation, reduced RBC lifespan, poor iron utilization, uremia, and atypical blood loss after dialysis. Excessive hepcidin synthesis impairs the absorption of dietary iron and the mobilization of iron from endogenous reserves, thus contributing significantly to anemia and poor iron regulation in CKD. These findings suggest that CKD may contribute to the occurrence of anemia in COVID-19 patients, especially in older people with comorbidities. Our review aims to explore the complex relationship between CKD, COVID-19 and anemia to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of the disease and the potential cofactors that worsen outcomes in these patients.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
Intervention Effectiveness of Health Behaviors During COVID-19: A Systematic Review and a Network Meta-Analysis.
PsyCh journal [Epub ahead of print].
In the context of a global public health crisis, such as COVID-19, developing interventions to improve population health behaviors has emerged as a pivotal element of health management strategies. The efficacy of various interventions implemented during this period has varied, and the impact of different variables on these intervention outcomes remains to be fully elucidated. This study screened 57 papers (n = 47,264) by searching electronic databases and revealed the optimal intervention through pairwise meta-analysis and network meta-analysis, as well as the changes in intervention effectiveness under different conditions. Our research findings indicate that interventions for preventive health behaviors and health-promoting behaviors have significant effects. For preventive health behaviors, the intervention method of health education and low-risk information framework under information intervention was the optimal intervention. For health-promoting behaviors, the exercise intervention and the prosocial information framework with information intervention were the optimal interventions. Accordingly, future research should focus on the in-depth exploration of specific interventions to establish and improve the effectiveness of interventions.
Additional Links: PMID-41024407
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@article {pmid41024407,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, R and Shi, K and Li, S and Zhou, W},
title = {Intervention Effectiveness of Health Behaviors During COVID-19: A Systematic Review and a Network Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {PsyCh journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/pchj.70054},
pmid = {41024407},
issn = {2046-0260},
support = {21XXJC04ZD//Zhejiang Province Philosophy and Social Sciences Emerging (Cross disciplinary) Major Project "Research on Public Risk Perception, Behavioral Patterns, and Countermeasures under Major Public Health Emergencies"/ ; },
abstract = {In the context of a global public health crisis, such as COVID-19, developing interventions to improve population health behaviors has emerged as a pivotal element of health management strategies. The efficacy of various interventions implemented during this period has varied, and the impact of different variables on these intervention outcomes remains to be fully elucidated. This study screened 57 papers (n = 47,264) by searching electronic databases and revealed the optimal intervention through pairwise meta-analysis and network meta-analysis, as well as the changes in intervention effectiveness under different conditions. Our research findings indicate that interventions for preventive health behaviors and health-promoting behaviors have significant effects. For preventive health behaviors, the intervention method of health education and low-risk information framework under information intervention was the optimal intervention. For health-promoting behaviors, the exercise intervention and the prosocial information framework with information intervention were the optimal interventions. Accordingly, future research should focus on the in-depth exploration of specific interventions to establish and improve the effectiveness of interventions.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
The Role of Viruses in the Pathogenesis of Periodontitis.
Journal of periodontal research [Epub ahead of print].
Periodontitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease, traditionally attributed to a bacterial biofilm. Increasing evidence indicates that viruses, especially members of the Herpesviridae family, are frequently detected in periodontal lesions and may influence disease onset and progression. This review provides an overview of viruses present in the oral cavity, including Herpesviridae, Papillomaviridae, Retroviridae, SARS-CoV-2, and emerging viral taxa such as Redondoviridae and bacteriophages, and summarizes their reported associations with periodontitis. Proposed mechanisms of viral contribution include modulation of local immune responses, facilitation of bacterial overgrowth, direct cytopathic effects on periodontal tissues, and synergistic interactions with classical periodontal pathobionts. Clinical correlations link viral load and co-infections with increased disease severity. Identification of direct causal relationships and therapeutic aspects, such as antiviral and combined antimicrobial approaches, is the subject of current research; however, clinical evidence remains limited. Overall, specific viruses show direct influence on periodontal bacterial pathogens and affect the host immune response, warranting further longitudinal and functional studies to clarify their exact role in periodontitis onset, progression, and treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-41024361
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41024361,
year = {2025},
author = {Stolte, KN and Slots, J and Dommisch, H},
title = {The Role of Viruses in the Pathogenesis of Periodontitis.},
journal = {Journal of periodontal research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jre.70039},
pmid = {41024361},
issn = {1600-0765},
abstract = {Periodontitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease, traditionally attributed to a bacterial biofilm. Increasing evidence indicates that viruses, especially members of the Herpesviridae family, are frequently detected in periodontal lesions and may influence disease onset and progression. This review provides an overview of viruses present in the oral cavity, including Herpesviridae, Papillomaviridae, Retroviridae, SARS-CoV-2, and emerging viral taxa such as Redondoviridae and bacteriophages, and summarizes their reported associations with periodontitis. Proposed mechanisms of viral contribution include modulation of local immune responses, facilitation of bacterial overgrowth, direct cytopathic effects on periodontal tissues, and synergistic interactions with classical periodontal pathobionts. Clinical correlations link viral load and co-infections with increased disease severity. Identification of direct causal relationships and therapeutic aspects, such as antiviral and combined antimicrobial approaches, is the subject of current research; however, clinical evidence remains limited. Overall, specific viruses show direct influence on periodontal bacterial pathogens and affect the host immune response, warranting further longitudinal and functional studies to clarify their exact role in periodontitis onset, progression, and treatment.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
Antibiotic resistance and bacterial co-infections in COVID-19 patients in Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis of hospitalized and non-hospitalized cases.
BMC infectious diseases, 25(1):1197.
Additional Links: PMID-41023991
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41023991,
year = {2025},
author = {Najafi-Olya, Z and Heydarifard, Z and Looha, MA and Ahmadi, AS and Yarhamadi, N and Safaei, M},
title = {Antibiotic resistance and bacterial co-infections in COVID-19 patients in Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis of hospitalized and non-hospitalized cases.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1197},
pmid = {41023991},
issn = {1471-2334},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on smoking in adolescents: a scoping review.
BMC public health, 25(1):3145.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic and associated policies have influenced adolescent smoking behaviours, with potential impacts on smoking initiation, cessation, and addiction. This scoping review aims to summarise existing evidence on how the pandemic affected adolescent smoking behaviour across various contexts.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in September 2023 across three databases-Embase, APA PsycInfo, and Medline-using terms related to adolescents, COVID-19 exposure, and smoking behaviours. Studies were included if they focused on adolescents aged 12-21, examined smoking-related outcomes during or after the pandemic, and were published from 2019 onwards. Study quality was not assessed in this research. The search identified 18 studies, which were independently screened by two reviewers, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Thematic analysis was used to categorise the studies.
RESULTS: Of the 18 studies, most were retrospective and focused on high-income countries, including the United States, Israel, and the Netherlands. Trends in smoking behaviour varied, with some studies reporting increased smoking during the pandemic, particularly in regions like the United States and Netherlands; others observed reductions in smoking, such as in France and Spain; and others observed mixed results, such as South Korea. The impact of mental health was significant, with increased anxiety and depression linked to higher smoking rates, especially in the United States and Israel. Several known risk factors, such as peer influence, parental smoking habits, and family dynamics, also played a role. Reduced peer interactions and time spent with family were associated with reductions in smoking behaviour. In contrast, adverse family dynamics or the presence of smoking family members contributed to higher smoking rates. Further, the impact of COVID-19 on these factors varied: peer influence decreased due to social distancing measures, while mental health issues such as increased anxiety and depression were associated with higher smoking rates.
CONCLUSION: This review highlights the complex and heterogeneous impacts of COVID-19 on adolescent smoking behaviours. Mental health, social interactions, and family dynamics were key factors influencing smoking patterns. These findings can inform the development of targeted smoking cessation and prevention strategies for adolescents, particularly in the context of future public health crises.
Additional Links: PMID-41023941
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41023941,
year = {2025},
author = {Fang, J and Xu, J and Zhou, X and Wang, Z and Guo, X and Zhang, Y and Jiang, Y and Xu, Y and Zhou, X and Cust, H and Correa, A},
title = {The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on smoking in adolescents: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {3145},
pmid = {41023941},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Adolescent ; *Smoking/epidemiology/psychology ; *Adolescent Behavior/psychology ; Pandemics ; Young Adult ; Child ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic and associated policies have influenced adolescent smoking behaviours, with potential impacts on smoking initiation, cessation, and addiction. This scoping review aims to summarise existing evidence on how the pandemic affected adolescent smoking behaviour across various contexts.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in September 2023 across three databases-Embase, APA PsycInfo, and Medline-using terms related to adolescents, COVID-19 exposure, and smoking behaviours. Studies were included if they focused on adolescents aged 12-21, examined smoking-related outcomes during or after the pandemic, and were published from 2019 onwards. Study quality was not assessed in this research. The search identified 18 studies, which were independently screened by two reviewers, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Thematic analysis was used to categorise the studies.
RESULTS: Of the 18 studies, most were retrospective and focused on high-income countries, including the United States, Israel, and the Netherlands. Trends in smoking behaviour varied, with some studies reporting increased smoking during the pandemic, particularly in regions like the United States and Netherlands; others observed reductions in smoking, such as in France and Spain; and others observed mixed results, such as South Korea. The impact of mental health was significant, with increased anxiety and depression linked to higher smoking rates, especially in the United States and Israel. Several known risk factors, such as peer influence, parental smoking habits, and family dynamics, also played a role. Reduced peer interactions and time spent with family were associated with reductions in smoking behaviour. In contrast, adverse family dynamics or the presence of smoking family members contributed to higher smoking rates. Further, the impact of COVID-19 on these factors varied: peer influence decreased due to social distancing measures, while mental health issues such as increased anxiety and depression were associated with higher smoking rates.
CONCLUSION: This review highlights the complex and heterogeneous impacts of COVID-19 on adolescent smoking behaviours. Mental health, social interactions, and family dynamics were key factors influencing smoking patterns. These findings can inform the development of targeted smoking cessation and prevention strategies for adolescents, particularly in the context of future public health crises.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Adolescent
*Smoking/epidemiology/psychology
*Adolescent Behavior/psychology
Pandemics
Young Adult
Child
RevDate: 2025-09-30
CT-P47/Tocilizumab-anoh: A Tocilizumab Biosimilar.
Clinical drug investigation [Epub ahead of print].
CT-P47/tocilizumab-anoh (AVTOZMA[Âź]) is a biosimilar of reference tocilizumab, an IL-6R inhibitor. CT-P47 is approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Coronavirus disease 2019 and cytokine release syndrome in the USA and the EU. CT-P47 has similar physicochemical properties to those of reference tocilizumab, with demonstrated pharmacokinetic comparability in patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. In this patient population, CT-P47 demonstrated clinical efficacy equivalent to reference tocilizumab and was generally well tolerated. The overall safety and immunogenicity profiles of CT-P47 were similar to those of reference tocilizumab, and switching from reference tocilizumab to CT-P47 did not affect safety or efficacy. The role of reference tocilizumab in the management of inflammatory diseases is well established and CT-P47 provides an effective biosimilar alternative for patients requiring tocilizumab therapy.
Additional Links: PMID-41023525
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41023525,
year = {2025},
author = {McGuigan, A},
title = {CT-P47/Tocilizumab-anoh: A Tocilizumab Biosimilar.},
journal = {Clinical drug investigation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41023525},
issn = {1179-1918},
abstract = {CT-P47/tocilizumab-anoh (AVTOZMA[Âź]) is a biosimilar of reference tocilizumab, an IL-6R inhibitor. CT-P47 is approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Coronavirus disease 2019 and cytokine release syndrome in the USA and the EU. CT-P47 has similar physicochemical properties to those of reference tocilizumab, with demonstrated pharmacokinetic comparability in patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. In this patient population, CT-P47 demonstrated clinical efficacy equivalent to reference tocilizumab and was generally well tolerated. The overall safety and immunogenicity profiles of CT-P47 were similar to those of reference tocilizumab, and switching from reference tocilizumab to CT-P47 did not affect safety or efficacy. The role of reference tocilizumab in the management of inflammatory diseases is well established and CT-P47 provides an effective biosimilar alternative for patients requiring tocilizumab therapy.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
Association between COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity and protection against infection and severe disease in clinically vulnerable patient populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.
Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases pii:S1198-743X(25)00471-9 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: The use of measured immune responses in informing risk of breakthrough COVID-19 infection and infection outcomes after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in clinically vulnerable patients has not been applied clinically.
OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to investigate the association between measured vaccine immunogenicity and vaccine effectiveness in clinically vulnerable populations.
DATA SOURCES: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library.
STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Studies published between 03/2020 and 01/2025, which reported data on COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity (antibody and T-cell) and subsequent infection outcomes.
PARTICIPANTS: Patients defined as clinically vulnerable by QCOVID criteria, who had received at least the primary course of COVID-19 vaccination.
ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF BIAS: The Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale was used to assess risk of bias.
METHODS OF DATA SYNTHESIS: A random-effects meta-analysis model was used to pool relative risks of COVID-19 breakthrough infection (BTI), hospitalisation, and death. Unadjusted data was used for the primary analysis due to a lack of adjusted data available in individual studies.
RESULTS: We identified 3305 articles, of which 45 observational studies were included in the review. Negative antibody response following COVID-19 vaccination was associated with higher risks of BTI [RR 1.82 (1.45-2.29), p<0.01, I[2]=84.03%], COVID-19 related hospitalisation [RR 5.88 (4.08-8.47), p<0.01, I[2]=25.59%] and death [RR 3.66 (1.87-7.15), p<0.01), I[2]=0%]. Lack of T-cell response was associated with higher risk of BTI [RR 2.08 (1.08-4.04), p=0.03, I[2]=65.99. Using the Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale, 5 (11%) studies were of good quality, 2 (7%) of fair quality, and 37 (82%) of poor quality.
CONCLUSIONS: Within the methodological limitations, this study has shown that lack of anti-spike antibody responses was associated with BTI and severe infection outcomes in clinically vulnerable populations. Further research is required to investigate the current utility of testing to inform the ongoing management of clinically vulnerable persons, such as vaccine booster schedules.
Additional Links: PMID-41022351
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41022351,
year = {2025},
author = {Danysz, M and De Aguiar, RC and Pindolia, H and Stuart, B and Spensley, K and Ashmore, E and Frumento, N and Haouidji-Javaux, N and Hutchinson, C and Iles, R and Lau, S and Rolt, J and Uwenedi, G and Wagg, H and Barnes, E and Lim, SH and Richter, A and Willicombe, M},
title = {Association between COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity and protection against infection and severe disease in clinically vulnerable patient populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2025.09.020},
pmid = {41022351},
issn = {1469-0691},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of measured immune responses in informing risk of breakthrough COVID-19 infection and infection outcomes after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in clinically vulnerable patients has not been applied clinically.
OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to investigate the association between measured vaccine immunogenicity and vaccine effectiveness in clinically vulnerable populations.
DATA SOURCES: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library.
STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Studies published between 03/2020 and 01/2025, which reported data on COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity (antibody and T-cell) and subsequent infection outcomes.
PARTICIPANTS: Patients defined as clinically vulnerable by QCOVID criteria, who had received at least the primary course of COVID-19 vaccination.
ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF BIAS: The Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale was used to assess risk of bias.
METHODS OF DATA SYNTHESIS: A random-effects meta-analysis model was used to pool relative risks of COVID-19 breakthrough infection (BTI), hospitalisation, and death. Unadjusted data was used for the primary analysis due to a lack of adjusted data available in individual studies.
RESULTS: We identified 3305 articles, of which 45 observational studies were included in the review. Negative antibody response following COVID-19 vaccination was associated with higher risks of BTI [RR 1.82 (1.45-2.29), p<0.01, I[2]=84.03%], COVID-19 related hospitalisation [RR 5.88 (4.08-8.47), p<0.01, I[2]=25.59%] and death [RR 3.66 (1.87-7.15), p<0.01), I[2]=0%]. Lack of T-cell response was associated with higher risk of BTI [RR 2.08 (1.08-4.04), p=0.03, I[2]=65.99. Using the Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale, 5 (11%) studies were of good quality, 2 (7%) of fair quality, and 37 (82%) of poor quality.
CONCLUSIONS: Within the methodological limitations, this study has shown that lack of anti-spike antibody responses was associated with BTI and severe infection outcomes in clinically vulnerable populations. Further research is required to investigate the current utility of testing to inform the ongoing management of clinically vulnerable persons, such as vaccine booster schedules.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
Post-Intensive Care Syndrome. What clinicians and researchers must know.
Anaesthesia, critical care & pain medicine pii:S2352-5568(25)00152-3 [Epub ahead of print].
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted intensive care as a cornerstone of modern medicine. In spite of global aging and the increase of comorbidities in the general population, a large proportion of patients survive their hospitalization in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Nevertheless, these positive results are challenged by the higher mortality rates than other non-critically ill populations after discharge. Moreover, there is growing evidence that ICU survivors display a high rate of mental health disorders (anxiety and depression symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorders), somatic impairment (muscle atrophy, neuropathy, and myopathy with persistent muscle weakness, chronic kidney disease, chronic respiratory failure), or cognitive impairment. Patient's relatives also suffer from mental health disorders (anxiety and depression symptoms, complicated bereavement). All these chronic health issues significantly impair the quality of life and increase healthcare costs. Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) is a term that encompasses all these complications. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted PICS as a public health concern. This review summarizes the most recent findings on PICS. It addresses epidemiological data about the frequency of somatic disorders, cognitive impairment, and mental health problems in both patients and their relatives and describes the pathophysiology mechanisms underlying PICS. The review also provides insights into management experimentations and treatment interventions that have been tested so far to improve the outcome of critically ill survivors. Finally, the review proposes measures to implement PICS management in follow-up centers and a research agenda to pave the future research on this topic.
Additional Links: PMID-41022213
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41022213,
year = {2025},
author = {Vardon, F and Fleichsmann-Struzek, C and Latronico, N and Cinotti, R},
title = {Post-Intensive Care Syndrome. What clinicians and researchers must know.},
journal = {Anaesthesia, critical care & pain medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101620},
doi = {10.1016/j.accpm.2025.101620},
pmid = {41022213},
issn = {2352-5568},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted intensive care as a cornerstone of modern medicine. In spite of global aging and the increase of comorbidities in the general population, a large proportion of patients survive their hospitalization in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Nevertheless, these positive results are challenged by the higher mortality rates than other non-critically ill populations after discharge. Moreover, there is growing evidence that ICU survivors display a high rate of mental health disorders (anxiety and depression symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorders), somatic impairment (muscle atrophy, neuropathy, and myopathy with persistent muscle weakness, chronic kidney disease, chronic respiratory failure), or cognitive impairment. Patient's relatives also suffer from mental health disorders (anxiety and depression symptoms, complicated bereavement). All these chronic health issues significantly impair the quality of life and increase healthcare costs. Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) is a term that encompasses all these complications. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted PICS as a public health concern. This review summarizes the most recent findings on PICS. It addresses epidemiological data about the frequency of somatic disorders, cognitive impairment, and mental health problems in both patients and their relatives and describes the pathophysiology mechanisms underlying PICS. The review also provides insights into management experimentations and treatment interventions that have been tested so far to improve the outcome of critically ill survivors. Finally, the review proposes measures to implement PICS management in follow-up centers and a research agenda to pave the future research on this topic.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29
Two decades of the HPV vaccine: its promise, progress, prospects, projections, and posterity.
Lancet regional health. Americas, 51:101243.
Since its 2006 FDA approval, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has transformed the prevention of cervical, oropharyngeal, and other HPV-associated cancers in the United States. Despite notable progress, with 78.2% of adolescents initiating and 62.9% completing vaccination, support for the vaccine is at a critical point. Because the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) mainly provides recommendations, state-level action is crucial. Only five states and territories have adopted school-entry HPV vaccination requirements, but with varying enforcement policies. Uptake varies across the U.S., from Massachusetts' 79.8% completion to Mississippi's 39.1%. Evidence shows that school-entry requirements can significantly improve vaccination rates. As we approach the vaccine's twentieth anniversary, maintaining the current gains and achieving the 80% Healthy People 2030 target for series completion demands a multipronged approach. State policies must become more robust, especially if federal support wanes. Preventing HPV-related cancers for future generations depends on continued progress. By prioritizing policy that strengthens prevention and access, states can safeguard this progress.
Additional Links: PMID-41019515
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41019515,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeitouni, J and Osazuwa-Peters, N and Dundar, Y and Zimet, G and Varvares, MA},
title = {Two decades of the HPV vaccine: its promise, progress, prospects, projections, and posterity.},
journal = {Lancet regional health. Americas},
volume = {51},
number = {},
pages = {101243},
pmid = {41019515},
issn = {2667-193X},
abstract = {Since its 2006 FDA approval, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has transformed the prevention of cervical, oropharyngeal, and other HPV-associated cancers in the United States. Despite notable progress, with 78.2% of adolescents initiating and 62.9% completing vaccination, support for the vaccine is at a critical point. Because the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) mainly provides recommendations, state-level action is crucial. Only five states and territories have adopted school-entry HPV vaccination requirements, but with varying enforcement policies. Uptake varies across the U.S., from Massachusetts' 79.8% completion to Mississippi's 39.1%. Evidence shows that school-entry requirements can significantly improve vaccination rates. As we approach the vaccine's twentieth anniversary, maintaining the current gains and achieving the 80% Healthy People 2030 target for series completion demands a multipronged approach. State policies must become more robust, especially if federal support wanes. Preventing HPV-related cancers for future generations depends on continued progress. By prioritizing policy that strengthens prevention and access, states can safeguard this progress.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29
Immunization safety monitoring: addressing vaccine hesitancy and enhancing coverage in crisis-affected regions-insights from Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan.
Therapeutic advances in vaccines and immunotherapy, 13:25151355251380220.
Global vaccine hesitancy, intensified by crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, represents a significant threat to immunization coverage. This narrative review discusses immunization safety monitoring frameworks and vaccine hesitancy in crisis-affected regions, particularly in Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan. By examining and reflecting on these case studies, this review aims to examine challenges, highlight context-specific strategies, and propose solutions for enhancing vaccine uptake and trust in fragile and conflict-affected areas. A structured narrative review was conducted, collecting evidence from global frameworks and region-specific case studies. The review explored factors impacting vaccine hesitancy, the role of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) monitoring systems, and innovative technological interventions. Key sources included peer-reviewed articles, reports from humanitarian organizations, and systematic reviews. The review showed that vaccine hesitancy is affected by interconnected factors, including sociopolitical and cultural conflicts, and misinformation. Lebanon's persistent economic and political instability, Ukraine's disruptions caused by the ongoing war, and Sudan's fragile healthcare infrastructure pose challenges to vaccine coverage. Successful interventions to address hesitancy included transparency in AEFI reporting, integration of real-time monitoring systems, and community-led initiatives. It is critical to mitigate vaccine hesitancy in crisis-affected regions through robust safety monitoring frameworks and tailored communication strategies. Global cooperation and frameworks, technological innovations, and context-specific approaches are imperative for improving the resilience of immunization systems and ensuring health security in fragile settings. Furthermore, these insights are crucial in informing public health communication policies and behavior change interventions to improve public trust and thus reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Additional Links: PMID-41018819
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41018819,
year = {2025},
author = {Nasr, R and Swaidan, E and Hachem, S and Yazbek, N and Rizk, M and Abdel Rahman, A and H Alami, N},
title = {Immunization safety monitoring: addressing vaccine hesitancy and enhancing coverage in crisis-affected regions-insights from Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan.},
journal = {Therapeutic advances in vaccines and immunotherapy},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {25151355251380220},
pmid = {41018819},
issn = {2515-1355},
abstract = {Global vaccine hesitancy, intensified by crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, represents a significant threat to immunization coverage. This narrative review discusses immunization safety monitoring frameworks and vaccine hesitancy in crisis-affected regions, particularly in Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan. By examining and reflecting on these case studies, this review aims to examine challenges, highlight context-specific strategies, and propose solutions for enhancing vaccine uptake and trust in fragile and conflict-affected areas. A structured narrative review was conducted, collecting evidence from global frameworks and region-specific case studies. The review explored factors impacting vaccine hesitancy, the role of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) monitoring systems, and innovative technological interventions. Key sources included peer-reviewed articles, reports from humanitarian organizations, and systematic reviews. The review showed that vaccine hesitancy is affected by interconnected factors, including sociopolitical and cultural conflicts, and misinformation. Lebanon's persistent economic and political instability, Ukraine's disruptions caused by the ongoing war, and Sudan's fragile healthcare infrastructure pose challenges to vaccine coverage. Successful interventions to address hesitancy included transparency in AEFI reporting, integration of real-time monitoring systems, and community-led initiatives. It is critical to mitigate vaccine hesitancy in crisis-affected regions through robust safety monitoring frameworks and tailored communication strategies. Global cooperation and frameworks, technological innovations, and context-specific approaches are imperative for improving the resilience of immunization systems and ensuring health security in fragile settings. Furthermore, these insights are crucial in informing public health communication policies and behavior change interventions to improve public trust and thus reduce vaccine hesitancy.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29
Influence of COVID-19 on pediatric immunocompromised children: mechanism and implications for pathogenesis.
Virusdisease, 36(2):263-274.
The global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has substantially impacted both health and the economy. It is essential to comprehend the effects of COVID-19 on children with compromised immune systems to develop effective strategies for management and mitigation. This review aims to provide comprehensive insights into various aspects related to pediatric COVID-19 infection and the effects of COVID-19 on the pediatric immunocompromised population. It covers epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, complications, long-term effects, and special considerations and challenges in diagnosis and management. A comprehensive examination of existing literature was undertaken to gather and integrate current understanding of COVID-19 in pediatric immunocompromised demographics. Key aspects such as viral pathogenesis, immune responses, diagnosis methods, management strategies, and nonpharmacological interventions were analyzed and discussed. Pediatric patients generally exhibit milder symptoms and better outcomes than adults, with differences in immune responses contributing to reduced severity. Immunocompromised individuals face a heightened risk of severe COVID-19 and complications due to impaired immune function. Diagnosis methods and management strategies must consider each population's unique characteristics and challenges. A deeper scientific inquiry is needed to explicate immune responses, potential long-term effects, and the best management strategies for pediatric immunocompromised COVID-19 patients. Multidisciplinary collaboration and advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics will enhance our understanding and improve outcomes for these vulnerable populations, ultimately contributing to effective pandemic control efforts.
Additional Links: PMID-41018222
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41018222,
year = {2025},
author = {Thomas, SM and Veerabathiran, R},
title = {Influence of COVID-19 on pediatric immunocompromised children: mechanism and implications for pathogenesis.},
journal = {Virusdisease},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {263-274},
pmid = {41018222},
issn = {2347-3584},
abstract = {The global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has substantially impacted both health and the economy. It is essential to comprehend the effects of COVID-19 on children with compromised immune systems to develop effective strategies for management and mitigation. This review aims to provide comprehensive insights into various aspects related to pediatric COVID-19 infection and the effects of COVID-19 on the pediatric immunocompromised population. It covers epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, complications, long-term effects, and special considerations and challenges in diagnosis and management. A comprehensive examination of existing literature was undertaken to gather and integrate current understanding of COVID-19 in pediatric immunocompromised demographics. Key aspects such as viral pathogenesis, immune responses, diagnosis methods, management strategies, and nonpharmacological interventions were analyzed and discussed. Pediatric patients generally exhibit milder symptoms and better outcomes than adults, with differences in immune responses contributing to reduced severity. Immunocompromised individuals face a heightened risk of severe COVID-19 and complications due to impaired immune function. Diagnosis methods and management strategies must consider each population's unique characteristics and challenges. A deeper scientific inquiry is needed to explicate immune responses, potential long-term effects, and the best management strategies for pediatric immunocompromised COVID-19 patients. Multidisciplinary collaboration and advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics will enhance our understanding and improve outcomes for these vulnerable populations, ultimately contributing to effective pandemic control efforts.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29
Introducing the ethical cycle model for resolving ethical conflicts in medical practice: addressing challenges in treating pandemic patients.
Journal of medical ethics and history of medicine, 17:15.
Ethical dilemmas are among the most important ethical problems in medicine. With the advent of COVID-19, the moral problems of physicians have taken on new dimensions as the specific features of this disease pose additional ethical challenges that require particular solutions. One common way to solve ethical dilemmas is to use ethical decision making models. One of the most recent models in ethics of technology is the "ethical cycle" developed by Ibo van de Poel. By describing and comparing several models, this paper examines the application of the ethical cycle to physicians' ethical problems and medical ethics. This model can help solve complex problems in consultations and ethics committee meetings because it is comprehensive and covers various aspects of the discussion. In this model, first the ethical problem is formulated and analyzed and then the potential options for action are proposed. Subsequently, by referring to ethical theories and professional codes of conduct in the medical field, as well as applying the method of "reflective equilibrium," an ethical decision is reached. This decision is specific to each case and may not necessarily be the best solution for other individuals or situations.
Additional Links: PMID-41017950
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@article {pmid41017950,
year = {2024},
author = {Madani, E and Dizani, A and Saeedi Tehrani, S and Madani, M},
title = {Introducing the ethical cycle model for resolving ethical conflicts in medical practice: addressing challenges in treating pandemic patients.},
journal = {Journal of medical ethics and history of medicine},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {15},
pmid = {41017950},
issn = {2008-0387},
abstract = {Ethical dilemmas are among the most important ethical problems in medicine. With the advent of COVID-19, the moral problems of physicians have taken on new dimensions as the specific features of this disease pose additional ethical challenges that require particular solutions. One common way to solve ethical dilemmas is to use ethical decision making models. One of the most recent models in ethics of technology is the "ethical cycle" developed by Ibo van de Poel. By describing and comparing several models, this paper examines the application of the ethical cycle to physicians' ethical problems and medical ethics. This model can help solve complex problems in consultations and ethics committee meetings because it is comprehensive and covers various aspects of the discussion. In this model, first the ethical problem is formulated and analyzed and then the potential options for action are proposed. Subsequently, by referring to ethical theories and professional codes of conduct in the medical field, as well as applying the method of "reflective equilibrium," an ethical decision is reached. This decision is specific to each case and may not necessarily be the best solution for other individuals or situations.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29
Equity considerations in COVID-19 vaccine allocation modelling: a methodological study.
Interface focus, 15(4):20240037.
We conducted a methodological study of COVID-19 vaccine allocation modelling papers, specifically looking for publications that considered equity. We found that most models did not take equity into account, with the vast majority of publications presenting aggregated results and no results by any subgroup (e.g. age, race, geography, etc.). We then provide examples of how modelling can be useful to answer equity questions, and highlight some of the findings from the publications that did. Finally, we describe eight considerations that seem important to consider when including equity in future vaccine allocation models.
Additional Links: PMID-41017906
PubMed:
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@article {pmid41017906,
year = {2025},
author = {Rumpler, E and Lipsitch, M},
title = {Equity considerations in COVID-19 vaccine allocation modelling: a methodological study.},
journal = {Interface focus},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {20240037},
pmid = {41017906},
issn = {2042-8898},
abstract = {We conducted a methodological study of COVID-19 vaccine allocation modelling papers, specifically looking for publications that considered equity. We found that most models did not take equity into account, with the vast majority of publications presenting aggregated results and no results by any subgroup (e.g. age, race, geography, etc.). We then provide examples of how modelling can be useful to answer equity questions, and highlight some of the findings from the publications that did. Finally, we describe eight considerations that seem important to consider when including equity in future vaccine allocation models.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29
The Role of BSL-3 Laboratories in Pandemic Preparedness: A Focus on Brazil's Infrastructure for Biosafety and Disease Control.
TheScientificWorldJournal, 2025:9104904.
BSL-3 laboratories are fundamental for the safe handling of infectious microorganisms that require high-containment measures. Through a literature review, this work was aimed at highlighting the importance of these laboratories in supporting research and public health responses, especially during health emergencies. The review presents an overview of the global distribution of BSL-3 facilities, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on laboratory investments, and future perspectives on their role in national development. It was observed that the pandemic exposed limitations in laboratory capacity, leading many countries to operate in suboptimal environments, underscoring the need for strict biosafety standards and preparedness infrastructure. This review also identifies disparities in global BSL-3 capacity-particularly in low- and middle-income countries-and examines the Brazilian context, where the absence of a unified regulatory framework hinders progress. By synthesizing international trends and Brazil's recent initiatives, including the development of its first BSL-4 laboratory, this work contributes to understanding the challenges and opportunities for strengthening biosafety infrastructure in support of equitable pandemic preparedness.
Additional Links: PMID-41017820
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41017820,
year = {2025},
author = {Vinhas, R and Oliveira, F and Fonseca, L and Hodel, K and Mafra, C and Minafra, C and Gonçalves, M and Machado, B},
title = {The Role of BSL-3 Laboratories in Pandemic Preparedness: A Focus on Brazil's Infrastructure for Biosafety and Disease Control.},
journal = {TheScientificWorldJournal},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {9104904},
pmid = {41017820},
issn = {1537-744X},
mesh = {Brazil/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Containment of Biohazards/methods/standards ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Laboratories/standards/organization & administration ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {BSL-3 laboratories are fundamental for the safe handling of infectious microorganisms that require high-containment measures. Through a literature review, this work was aimed at highlighting the importance of these laboratories in supporting research and public health responses, especially during health emergencies. The review presents an overview of the global distribution of BSL-3 facilities, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on laboratory investments, and future perspectives on their role in national development. It was observed that the pandemic exposed limitations in laboratory capacity, leading many countries to operate in suboptimal environments, underscoring the need for strict biosafety standards and preparedness infrastructure. This review also identifies disparities in global BSL-3 capacity-particularly in low- and middle-income countries-and examines the Brazilian context, where the absence of a unified regulatory framework hinders progress. By synthesizing international trends and Brazil's recent initiatives, including the development of its first BSL-4 laboratory, this work contributes to understanding the challenges and opportunities for strengthening biosafety infrastructure in support of equitable pandemic preparedness.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Brazil/epidemiology
Humans
*Containment of Biohazards/methods/standards
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Laboratories/standards/organization & administration
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemic Preparedness
RevDate: 2025-09-29
Parkinsonism-Hyperpyrexia Syndrome Following Deep Brain Stimulation Battery Depletion during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Series and Review of the Literature.
Movement disorders clinical practice [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Parkinsonism-hyperpyrexia syndrome (PHS) is a rare but life-threatening complication in Parkinson's disease (PD), typically triggered by abrupt withdrawal of dopaminergic therapy. It can also occur following deep brain stimulation (DBS) failure, most often due to battery depletion. Limited access to elective neurological care during the COVID-19 pandemic increased the risk of such DBS-related complications.
CASES: We present seven patients with advanced PD who developed PHS following DBS battery depletion during the COVID-19 pandemic. All patients exhibited motor deterioration, autonomic symptoms, and elevated creatine phosphokinase levels. Despite varied outcomes, five patients recovered following urgent battery replacement and supportive care. Two patients died due to delayed intervention and systemic complications.
LITERATURE REVIEW: A review of 38 published cases of PHS following DBS failure revealed that to date, it has occurred in patients with more than 11 years of PD and at least 2 years of DBS. IPG battery depletion was the leading cause of failure (68.4%), with 76.3% of patients recovering after timely device replacement. Delayed or absent intervention was associated with higher mortality, underscoring the importance of prompt diagnosis and management.
CONCLUSION: Timely intervention, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-up are critical to prevent PHS, especially during healthcare disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additional Links: PMID-41017701
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41017701,
year = {2025},
author = {Habibi, SAH and Eissazade, N and Lotfi, T and Parvaresh-Rizi, M and Shahidi, G and Rohani, M},
title = {Parkinsonism-Hyperpyrexia Syndrome Following Deep Brain Stimulation Battery Depletion during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Series and Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Movement disorders clinical practice},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/mdc3.70320},
pmid = {41017701},
issn = {2330-1619},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Parkinsonism-hyperpyrexia syndrome (PHS) is a rare but life-threatening complication in Parkinson's disease (PD), typically triggered by abrupt withdrawal of dopaminergic therapy. It can also occur following deep brain stimulation (DBS) failure, most often due to battery depletion. Limited access to elective neurological care during the COVID-19 pandemic increased the risk of such DBS-related complications.
CASES: We present seven patients with advanced PD who developed PHS following DBS battery depletion during the COVID-19 pandemic. All patients exhibited motor deterioration, autonomic symptoms, and elevated creatine phosphokinase levels. Despite varied outcomes, five patients recovered following urgent battery replacement and supportive care. Two patients died due to delayed intervention and systemic complications.
LITERATURE REVIEW: A review of 38 published cases of PHS following DBS failure revealed that to date, it has occurred in patients with more than 11 years of PD and at least 2 years of DBS. IPG battery depletion was the leading cause of failure (68.4%), with 76.3% of patients recovering after timely device replacement. Delayed or absent intervention was associated with higher mortality, underscoring the importance of prompt diagnosis and management.
CONCLUSION: Timely intervention, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-up are critical to prevent PHS, especially during healthcare disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
ÎČ-Glucan in antiviral defense: mechanisms, immune modulation, and therapeutic prospects.
Folia microbiologica [Epub ahead of print].
ÎČ-Glucans, naturally occurring ÎČ-D-glucose polysaccharides from fungi, yeast, bacteria, algae, and cereals, have emerged as promising immunomodulatory agents in antiviral defense. Their structural diversity-encompassing ÎČ-1,3, ÎČ-1,6, and ÎČ-1,4 linkages-underpins varied solubility, bioavailability, and biological activity, driving their therapeutic potential. Unlike conventional antivirals that target viral replication, ÎČ-glucans enhance host immunity by activating innate and adaptive responses through receptors such as dectin-1, toll-like receptors, and complement receptor 3, thereby stimulating macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells to produce antiviral cytokines (e.g., interferons, interleukins) and induce trained immunity for long-term protection. This review explores ÎČ-glucans's mechanisms in combating viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, HPV, HBV, influenza, and HIV, highlighting direct antiviral effects (e.g., inhibiting viral entry via sulfated derivatives), immune modulation (e.g., enhancing T-cell responses and antibody production), and inflammation control (e.g., mitigating cytokine storms). Preclinical and clinical evidence underscores their ability to reduce viral load, enhance vaccine efficacy, and support tissue repair, as seen in HPV-related lesions. ÎČ-Glucans also modulate the gut microbiota, bolstering mucosal immunity. Despite promising outcomes, challenges like structural heterogeneity and limited large-scale trials persist. This article outlines the therapeutic prospects of ÎČ-glucans, emphasizing their potential as safe and versatile adjuncts to address emerging viral threats and enhance global health resilience.
Additional Links: PMID-41016951
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016951,
year = {2025},
author = {Atoom, AM and Abdulsahib, WK and Jyothi, SR and Nayak, PP and Chauhan, AS and Singla, S and Polatova, D and Sead, FF and Yazdi, F},
title = {ÎČ-Glucan in antiviral defense: mechanisms, immune modulation, and therapeutic prospects.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41016951},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {ÎČ-Glucans, naturally occurring ÎČ-D-glucose polysaccharides from fungi, yeast, bacteria, algae, and cereals, have emerged as promising immunomodulatory agents in antiviral defense. Their structural diversity-encompassing ÎČ-1,3, ÎČ-1,6, and ÎČ-1,4 linkages-underpins varied solubility, bioavailability, and biological activity, driving their therapeutic potential. Unlike conventional antivirals that target viral replication, ÎČ-glucans enhance host immunity by activating innate and adaptive responses through receptors such as dectin-1, toll-like receptors, and complement receptor 3, thereby stimulating macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells to produce antiviral cytokines (e.g., interferons, interleukins) and induce trained immunity for long-term protection. This review explores ÎČ-glucans's mechanisms in combating viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, HPV, HBV, influenza, and HIV, highlighting direct antiviral effects (e.g., inhibiting viral entry via sulfated derivatives), immune modulation (e.g., enhancing T-cell responses and antibody production), and inflammation control (e.g., mitigating cytokine storms). Preclinical and clinical evidence underscores their ability to reduce viral load, enhance vaccine efficacy, and support tissue repair, as seen in HPV-related lesions. ÎČ-Glucans also modulate the gut microbiota, bolstering mucosal immunity. Despite promising outcomes, challenges like structural heterogeneity and limited large-scale trials persist. This article outlines the therapeutic prospects of ÎČ-glucans, emphasizing their potential as safe and versatile adjuncts to address emerging viral threats and enhance global health resilience.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-28
[Study on the pathogenicity and tropism of positive-strand RNA viruses].
Uirusu, 75(1):59-72.
Many of the emerging and re-emerging viral diseases that have caused global outbreaks in recent years -such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), dengue fever, Zika virus disease, and COVID-19 -are caused by positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA) viruses. This review focuses on members of the Flaviviridae family, a diverse group of +ssRNA viruses that exhibit distinct host and tissue tropisms, and summarizes our recent efforts to elucidate the molecular determinants underlying their pathogenicity and tropism. By refining reverse genetics systems that enable precise manipulation of viral genomes, we have uncovered the functional roles of specific viral proteins in pathogenesis through experimental infections using animal models that recapitulate disease phenotypes. In addition, by analyzing structural variations within viral genomes, we successfully identified key elements responsible for determining viral specificity. We have also developed innovative viral reporter assays that incorporate advanced imaging technologies, enabling real-time visualization of viral dynamics in vivo and facilitating diagnostic applications. This review integrates these findings to provide insights into how pathogenicity and tissue tropism evolve through repeated interspecies transmission, and discusses the potential of such approaches as a foundational platform for future infectious disease research and countermeasures.
Additional Links: PMID-41016805
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016805,
year = {2025},
author = {Tamura, T},
title = {[Study on the pathogenicity and tropism of positive-strand RNA viruses].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {75},
number = {1},
pages = {59-72},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.75.59},
pmid = {41016805},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {*Viral Tropism/genetics ; Animals ; Humans ; Genome, Viral/genetics ; *Flaviviridae/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology ; *RNA Viruses/pathogenicity/genetics ; Viral Proteins/physiology ; Virulence ; },
abstract = {Many of the emerging and re-emerging viral diseases that have caused global outbreaks in recent years -such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), dengue fever, Zika virus disease, and COVID-19 -are caused by positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA) viruses. This review focuses on members of the Flaviviridae family, a diverse group of +ssRNA viruses that exhibit distinct host and tissue tropisms, and summarizes our recent efforts to elucidate the molecular determinants underlying their pathogenicity and tropism. By refining reverse genetics systems that enable precise manipulation of viral genomes, we have uncovered the functional roles of specific viral proteins in pathogenesis through experimental infections using animal models that recapitulate disease phenotypes. In addition, by analyzing structural variations within viral genomes, we successfully identified key elements responsible for determining viral specificity. We have also developed innovative viral reporter assays that incorporate advanced imaging technologies, enabling real-time visualization of viral dynamics in vivo and facilitating diagnostic applications. This review integrates these findings to provide insights into how pathogenicity and tissue tropism evolve through repeated interspecies transmission, and discusses the potential of such approaches as a foundational platform for future infectious disease research and countermeasures.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Viral Tropism/genetics
Animals
Humans
Genome, Viral/genetics
*Flaviviridae/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology
*RNA Viruses/pathogenicity/genetics
Viral Proteins/physiology
Virulence
RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-28
[Elucidation of virus-host interaction using animal models towards vaccine development].
Uirusu, 75(1):51-58.
HIV replication highly interacts with host immunity resulting in life-long persistent virus replication in the presence of adaptive immune responses. Development of an effective vaccine is a key for control of global HIV epidemic, but immunization methods to induce effective anti-HIV immune responses have not been established. We have been focusing on analyzing virus-host immune interaction in vivo using animal models and applying findings to the development of vaccines. We have developed a novel immunogen selectively inducing virus-specific CD8+ T-cell responses and showed protective efficacy of vaccines against intrarectal SIV challenge. We have also worked on antibody responses, and determined the polymorphism in germline immunoglobulin genes in macaques and its association with induction of a particular class of anti-SIV neutralizing antibody. We applied the knowledge in HIV research to HTLV and COVID-19, showing protective efficacy of vaccine-induced neutralizing antibody against HTLV infection and viral suppression by vaccine-induced CD8+ T-cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 in macaque models.
Additional Links: PMID-41016804
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41016804,
year = {2025},
author = {Ishii, H},
title = {[Elucidation of virus-host interaction using animal models towards vaccine development].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {75},
number = {1},
pages = {51-58},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.75.51},
pmid = {41016804},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {Animals ; CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; Humans ; *Vaccine Development ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Simian Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Macaca ; Virus Replication ; *Host Microbial Interactions/immunology ; AIDS Vaccines/immunology ; },
abstract = {HIV replication highly interacts with host immunity resulting in life-long persistent virus replication in the presence of adaptive immune responses. Development of an effective vaccine is a key for control of global HIV epidemic, but immunization methods to induce effective anti-HIV immune responses have not been established. We have been focusing on analyzing virus-host immune interaction in vivo using animal models and applying findings to the development of vaccines. We have developed a novel immunogen selectively inducing virus-specific CD8+ T-cell responses and showed protective efficacy of vaccines against intrarectal SIV challenge. We have also worked on antibody responses, and determined the polymorphism in germline immunoglobulin genes in macaques and its association with induction of a particular class of anti-SIV neutralizing antibody. We applied the knowledge in HIV research to HTLV and COVID-19, showing protective efficacy of vaccine-induced neutralizing antibody against HTLV infection and viral suppression by vaccine-induced CD8+ T-cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 in macaque models.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Animals
CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
Humans
*Vaccine Development
COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Disease Models, Animal
Antibodies, Viral/immunology
Simian Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines
Macaca
Virus Replication
*Host Microbial Interactions/immunology
AIDS Vaccines/immunology
RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-28
[Epidemiology of measles in Japan].
Uirusu, 75(1):23-34.
As of May 2025, measles outbreaks have been occurring worldwide. Japan has reported the highest number of cases since the beginning of the COVID-19. Unvaccinated measles cases are highly contagious and at high risk for serious illness, so it is important to ensure that children receive the live attenuated measles-rubella (MR) vaccine as soon as they become one year old. Additionally, the second routine immunization coverage rate must be raised to 95% or higher among five-to six- year-old children (one year before entering elementary school). For elementary school students and older individuals, it is important to check the vaccine records showing two doses of a measles-containing vaccine administered at or after one year of age. Those born on or after April 2, 1990, had the opportunity to receive two routine vaccinations; however, their records must be checked to confirm receipt. We also recommend checking vaccination records before traveling abroad. Additionally, rapid active epidemiological surveillance should be conducted in the event of a single measles case. Emergency vaccination within 72 hours of exposure for susceptible individuals may prevent the disease. For individuals ineligible for vaccination, health insurance covers the prevention of severe disease through an intramuscular injection of human immunoglobulin within six days of exposure. The most important measure is prophylaxis prior to exposure to the measles virus.
Additional Links: PMID-41016800
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016800,
year = {2025},
author = {Tanaka-Taya, K},
title = {[Epidemiology of measles in Japan].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {75},
number = {1},
pages = {23-34},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.75.23},
pmid = {41016800},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {Humans ; *Measles/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Japan/epidemiology ; Measles Vaccine/administration & dosage ; Child ; Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; Child, Preschool ; Infant ; Vaccination ; Vaccination Coverage ; Adolescent ; },
abstract = {As of May 2025, measles outbreaks have been occurring worldwide. Japan has reported the highest number of cases since the beginning of the COVID-19. Unvaccinated measles cases are highly contagious and at high risk for serious illness, so it is important to ensure that children receive the live attenuated measles-rubella (MR) vaccine as soon as they become one year old. Additionally, the second routine immunization coverage rate must be raised to 95% or higher among five-to six- year-old children (one year before entering elementary school). For elementary school students and older individuals, it is important to check the vaccine records showing two doses of a measles-containing vaccine administered at or after one year of age. Those born on or after April 2, 1990, had the opportunity to receive two routine vaccinations; however, their records must be checked to confirm receipt. We also recommend checking vaccination records before traveling abroad. Additionally, rapid active epidemiological surveillance should be conducted in the event of a single measles case. Emergency vaccination within 72 hours of exposure for susceptible individuals may prevent the disease. For individuals ineligible for vaccination, health insurance covers the prevention of severe disease through an intramuscular injection of human immunoglobulin within six days of exposure. The most important measure is prophylaxis prior to exposure to the measles virus.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Measles/epidemiology/prevention & control
Japan/epidemiology
Measles Vaccine/administration & dosage
Child
Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
Child, Preschool
Infant
Vaccination
Vaccination Coverage
Adolescent
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Research progress of lung organoids in infectious respiratory diseases.
European journal of pharmacology pii:S0014-2999(25)00955-0 [Epub ahead of print].
Infectious respiratory diseases are common epidemics that often exhibit phased outbreaks, increasing the healthcare burden. Past research models for these diseases were relatively simplistic, but the emergence of organoids has transformed this landscape. Organoids, three-dimensional in vitro tissue analogs that recapitulate specific spatial organ structures derived from stem cell culture, have advanced significantly over the decade since their inception. Compared to conventional animal models, organoids circumvent interspecies variations, enabling a more precise representation of human physiological and pathological traits. Relative to two-dimensional cell cultures, organoids exhibit enhanced complexity, incorporating diverse cell types and maintaining stable genomes, which facilitates a more faithful simulation of cellular interactions within the extracellular microenvironment. Consequently, as a three-dimensional in vitro model, lung organoids are pivotal for investigating lung organ development, infectious disease pathogenesis, and drug screening. Although SARS-CoV-2 is receding from the spotlight, advancing lung organoid development for addressing infectious respiratory diseases like influenza remains a priority. This review demonstrated the differentiation culture process of lung organoids and outlined advancements in utilizing organoids to elucidate pathogenic infection mechanisms, reveal virus-host interactions and screen therapeutic drugs over the past seven years. Additionally, we have summarized the advances in lung organoid model technologies and outlined their developmental directions.
Additional Links: PMID-41016568
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016568,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Yang, W and Liu, X and Yang, K and Zhou, J and Yang, X},
title = {Research progress of lung organoids in infectious respiratory diseases.},
journal = {European journal of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {178201},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejphar.2025.178201},
pmid = {41016568},
issn = {1879-0712},
abstract = {Infectious respiratory diseases are common epidemics that often exhibit phased outbreaks, increasing the healthcare burden. Past research models for these diseases were relatively simplistic, but the emergence of organoids has transformed this landscape. Organoids, three-dimensional in vitro tissue analogs that recapitulate specific spatial organ structures derived from stem cell culture, have advanced significantly over the decade since their inception. Compared to conventional animal models, organoids circumvent interspecies variations, enabling a more precise representation of human physiological and pathological traits. Relative to two-dimensional cell cultures, organoids exhibit enhanced complexity, incorporating diverse cell types and maintaining stable genomes, which facilitates a more faithful simulation of cellular interactions within the extracellular microenvironment. Consequently, as a three-dimensional in vitro model, lung organoids are pivotal for investigating lung organ development, infectious disease pathogenesis, and drug screening. Although SARS-CoV-2 is receding from the spotlight, advancing lung organoid development for addressing infectious respiratory diseases like influenza remains a priority. This review demonstrated the differentiation culture process of lung organoids and outlined advancements in utilizing organoids to elucidate pathogenic infection mechanisms, reveal virus-host interactions and screen therapeutic drugs over the past seven years. Additionally, we have summarized the advances in lung organoid model technologies and outlined their developmental directions.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Interstitial drug delivery system: The physiological basis and current progress.
Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society pii:S0168-3659(25)00888-0 [Epub ahead of print].
The interstitial drug delivery system, with a long-standing history in pharmaceutical science, has recently regained significant attention due to its pivotal role in enhancing drug transport to lymphatic vessels and improving lymph node targeting. The success of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new era for interstitial-based drug delivery strategies. Consequently, advancing the development of next-generation interstitial delivery systems necessitates a deeper understanding of interstitial physiology. This review systematically summarizes the physiological composition and functions of the interstitium, discusses the distinct characteristics of diverse interstitial administration routes, evaluates recent advances in formulation design and clinical translation efforts of advanced delivery systems, and highlights current challenges and future directions in the field. By providing this comprehensive analysis, we aim to stimulate the wider clinical application of interstitial delivery systems in therapeutic practice.
Additional Links: PMID-41016477
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016477,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, A and Tang, Y and Shi, X and Fan, W},
title = {Interstitial drug delivery system: The physiological basis and current progress.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {114275},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.114275},
pmid = {41016477},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {The interstitial drug delivery system, with a long-standing history in pharmaceutical science, has recently regained significant attention due to its pivotal role in enhancing drug transport to lymphatic vessels and improving lymph node targeting. The success of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new era for interstitial-based drug delivery strategies. Consequently, advancing the development of next-generation interstitial delivery systems necessitates a deeper understanding of interstitial physiology. This review systematically summarizes the physiological composition and functions of the interstitium, discusses the distinct characteristics of diverse interstitial administration routes, evaluates recent advances in formulation design and clinical translation efforts of advanced delivery systems, and highlights current challenges and future directions in the field. By providing this comprehensive analysis, we aim to stimulate the wider clinical application of interstitial delivery systems in therapeutic practice.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Antiviral activity of silver and selenium nanoparticles against SARS-CoV-2: A comprehensive systematic review of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence.
Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology : organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS), 92:127768 pii:S0946-672X(25)00181-6 [Epub ahead of print].
OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to answer the following question: "Do silver (AgNPs) and selenium (SeNPs) nanoparticles, either individually or incorporated into materials and products, exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 strains?"
METHODS: This review was registered in PROSPERO and conducted following the PRISMA 2020 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, LILACS, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and ProQuest in March 2025 to identify studies evaluating the effects of isolated or material-incorporated AgNPs and SeNPs against SARS-CoV-2.
RESULTS: AgNPs and SeNPs exhibit strong virucidal and antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and its Spike glycoprotein, both as isolated nanoparticles and when incorporated into masks, goggles, polymers, sprays, coatings, mouthwashes, and solutions. High efficacy has been demonstrated across in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, with enhanced outcomes associated with smaller particle sizes, higher concentrations, and longer contact times.
CONCLUSION: Both isolated and material-integrated AgNPs and SeNPs exhibit high antiviral and virucidal effectiveness against multiple SARS-CoV-2 strains in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies.
Additional Links: PMID-41016268
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016268,
year = {2025},
author = {Carvalho-Silva, JM and Dos Reis, AC},
title = {Antiviral activity of silver and selenium nanoparticles against SARS-CoV-2: A comprehensive systematic review of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence.},
journal = {Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology : organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS)},
volume = {92},
number = {},
pages = {127768},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtemb.2025.127768},
pmid = {41016268},
issn = {1878-3252},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to answer the following question: "Do silver (AgNPs) and selenium (SeNPs) nanoparticles, either individually or incorporated into materials and products, exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 strains?"
METHODS: This review was registered in PROSPERO and conducted following the PRISMA 2020 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, LILACS, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and ProQuest in March 2025 to identify studies evaluating the effects of isolated or material-incorporated AgNPs and SeNPs against SARS-CoV-2.
RESULTS: AgNPs and SeNPs exhibit strong virucidal and antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and its Spike glycoprotein, both as isolated nanoparticles and when incorporated into masks, goggles, polymers, sprays, coatings, mouthwashes, and solutions. High efficacy has been demonstrated across in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, with enhanced outcomes associated with smaller particle sizes, higher concentrations, and longer contact times.
CONCLUSION: Both isolated and material-integrated AgNPs and SeNPs exhibit high antiviral and virucidal effectiveness against multiple SARS-CoV-2 strains in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Facilitators to strengthening vaccine uptake post-pandemic amongst underserved populations considering social norms and health beliefs: a global systematic review.
Vaccine, 65:127769 pii:S0264-410X(25)01066-7 [Epub ahead of print].
UNLABELLED: Reasons for low vaccine uptake include personal, physical, and societal barriers, which are not well understood for specific underserved communities, particularly ethnic minority and migrant groups. We reviewed gaps to understanding low vaccination uptake in underserved populations globally and summarise key determinants associated with vaccination uptake considering social norms and health beliefs.
METHODS: Published literature was searched using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE; PSYCHINFO and Web of Science from 2020 to 2024 for primary research, with no restrictions on language; to understand uptake of COVID-19 and other vaccinations considering social norms and health beliefs in underserved groups. 55, 925 papers were screened, and 37 studies included from regions including Europe, USA, UK, African, South-Asian, and South-East Asian regions.
FINDINGS: A total of 37 studies were included. Four themes pertinent to behavioural outcomes were identified in relation to vaccine uptake across ethnic groups, ethnic minority, and underserved groups, including: Influences of Health Belief Systems, Behaviours and Vaccine Uptake; Role of Social and Cultural norms, and Vaccine Uptake; Provision of Information and Vaccine Uptake; and Trust and Vaccine Uptake. We found vaccine uptake was linked with socio-demographic factors, particularly age, gender and ethnicity. There were similarities between first generation migrants and ethnic minority groups from USA or UK, and those from other regions. Younger, male and individuals from rural regions from their own native countries were also less likely to take up vaccination. Societal influences and norms were found to be significant predictors of vaccine uptake.
DISCUSSION: We reviewed, how social norms and health beliefs interplay with vaccine uptake in underserved groups and report facilitators to overcome vaccine hesitancy across these population groups. There is a need to provide adequate, tailored information to combat misinformation, through trusted messengers or gatekeepers to overcome the misconceptions around vaccine, by gaining the trust of underserved groups.
DISCUSSION: This review provides an overview of how social norms and health beliefs interplay with vaccine uptake in underserved and ethnic groups. It reports facilitators to overcome the barriers associated with vaccine hesitancy across these population groups. There is a need to provide and spread adequate and tailored information to combat misinformation, through trusted messengers or gatekeepers, which in turn could overcome misconceptions around vaccination, by gaining the trust of underserved groups, through support programmes facilitating vaccine uptake.
Additional Links: PMID-41016229
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016229,
year = {2025},
author = {Chaudhry, T and Tum, P and Morrow, F and Hargreaves, S and Kielmann, K and Kunst, H and Griffiths, C and Campbell, NJC and Zenner, D},
title = {Facilitators to strengthening vaccine uptake post-pandemic amongst underserved populations considering social norms and health beliefs: a global systematic review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {65},
number = {},
pages = {127769},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127769},
pmid = {41016229},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Reasons for low vaccine uptake include personal, physical, and societal barriers, which are not well understood for specific underserved communities, particularly ethnic minority and migrant groups. We reviewed gaps to understanding low vaccination uptake in underserved populations globally and summarise key determinants associated with vaccination uptake considering social norms and health beliefs.
METHODS: Published literature was searched using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE; PSYCHINFO and Web of Science from 2020 to 2024 for primary research, with no restrictions on language; to understand uptake of COVID-19 and other vaccinations considering social norms and health beliefs in underserved groups. 55, 925 papers were screened, and 37 studies included from regions including Europe, USA, UK, African, South-Asian, and South-East Asian regions.
FINDINGS: A total of 37 studies were included. Four themes pertinent to behavioural outcomes were identified in relation to vaccine uptake across ethnic groups, ethnic minority, and underserved groups, including: Influences of Health Belief Systems, Behaviours and Vaccine Uptake; Role of Social and Cultural norms, and Vaccine Uptake; Provision of Information and Vaccine Uptake; and Trust and Vaccine Uptake. We found vaccine uptake was linked with socio-demographic factors, particularly age, gender and ethnicity. There were similarities between first generation migrants and ethnic minority groups from USA or UK, and those from other regions. Younger, male and individuals from rural regions from their own native countries were also less likely to take up vaccination. Societal influences and norms were found to be significant predictors of vaccine uptake.
DISCUSSION: We reviewed, how social norms and health beliefs interplay with vaccine uptake in underserved groups and report facilitators to overcome vaccine hesitancy across these population groups. There is a need to provide adequate, tailored information to combat misinformation, through trusted messengers or gatekeepers to overcome the misconceptions around vaccine, by gaining the trust of underserved groups.
DISCUSSION: This review provides an overview of how social norms and health beliefs interplay with vaccine uptake in underserved and ethnic groups. It reports facilitators to overcome the barriers associated with vaccine hesitancy across these population groups. There is a need to provide and spread adequate and tailored information to combat misinformation, through trusted messengers or gatekeepers, which in turn could overcome misconceptions around vaccination, by gaining the trust of underserved groups, through support programmes facilitating vaccine uptake.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Mortality rate and causes of death in inborn errors of immunity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Mutation research. Reviews in mutation research, 796:108564 pii:S1383-5742(25)00035-3 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) experience severe infectious and non-infectious complications, leading to an increased risk of mortality. Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis significantly contributes to the heightened mortality rates observed in IEI patients.
OBJECTIVES: This study systematically reviews the causes of mortality in IEI patients with a meta-analysis to determine the mortality rate among patients with various IEI.
METHODS: Embase, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus were searched (up to July 2024) using terms related to IEI and mortality.
RESULTS: A total of 12,581 deceased IEI patients were included, with an overall reported mortality rate of 24.0 % (95 % confidence interval: 23.0-26.0 %) among all published IEI cases. This represents an approximately 27-fold higher mortality rate among IEI patients compared to the mean global mortality rate (24 % vs. 0.874 %). Severe combined immunodeficiency, chronic granulomatous disease, and ataxia-telangiectasia had the highest numbers of reported deceased cases (2304, 962, and 820 cases, respectively). However, familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis exhibited the highest mortality rate (49.0 %). The most common causes of death were infections, transplant-related mortality and non-infectious pulmonary complications, (3429, 2749, and 1141 cases), respectively. Among infectious causes of death, COVID-19 infection accounted for 10.8 % (370 cases).
CONCLUSION: This study identifies specific types of IEI with the highest mortality rates and numbers, alongside immune component defects most strongly associated with increased mortality. Patients with immune dysregulation, defects in cellular immunity, and phagocyte function were particularly linked to higher mortality rates, underscoring the urgent need for improved management strategies for these IEIs.
Additional Links: PMID-41016093
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016093,
year = {2025},
author = {Fekrvand, S and Esfahani, ZH and Yarahmadi, M and Saeedi-Boroujeni, A and Salehi, H and Hakimelahi, A and Almasi-Hashiani, A and Rahmati, M and Afshar-Ghasemlou, S and Fard, NNG and Monfared, FT and Afkham, EK and Fathi, N and Shad, TM and Babaha, F and Nazari, F and Nirouei, M and Farid, AS and Sanadgol, N and Rafiemanesh, H and Marzbali, MY and Hassanpour, G and Olbrich, P and Condino-Neto, A and Morio, T and Gennery, AR and Meyts, I and Ochs, HD and Abolhassani, H and Rezaei, N and Yazdani, R},
title = {Mortality rate and causes of death in inborn errors of immunity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Mutation research. Reviews in mutation research},
volume = {796},
number = {},
pages = {108564},
doi = {10.1016/j.mrrev.2025.108564},
pmid = {41016093},
issn = {1388-2139},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) experience severe infectious and non-infectious complications, leading to an increased risk of mortality. Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis significantly contributes to the heightened mortality rates observed in IEI patients.
OBJECTIVES: This study systematically reviews the causes of mortality in IEI patients with a meta-analysis to determine the mortality rate among patients with various IEI.
METHODS: Embase, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus were searched (up to July 2024) using terms related to IEI and mortality.
RESULTS: A total of 12,581 deceased IEI patients were included, with an overall reported mortality rate of 24.0 % (95 % confidence interval: 23.0-26.0 %) among all published IEI cases. This represents an approximately 27-fold higher mortality rate among IEI patients compared to the mean global mortality rate (24 % vs. 0.874 %). Severe combined immunodeficiency, chronic granulomatous disease, and ataxia-telangiectasia had the highest numbers of reported deceased cases (2304, 962, and 820 cases, respectively). However, familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis exhibited the highest mortality rate (49.0 %). The most common causes of death were infections, transplant-related mortality and non-infectious pulmonary complications, (3429, 2749, and 1141 cases), respectively. Among infectious causes of death, COVID-19 infection accounted for 10.8 % (370 cases).
CONCLUSION: This study identifies specific types of IEI with the highest mortality rates and numbers, alongside immune component defects most strongly associated with increased mortality. Patients with immune dysregulation, defects in cellular immunity, and phagocyte function were particularly linked to higher mortality rates, underscoring the urgent need for improved management strategies for these IEIs.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-28
Patient satisfaction and experience for virtual consultation services in the Malaysian government health clinics: A review.
The Medical journal of Malaysia, 80(5):627-634.
INTRODUCTION: Virtual consultation (VC) has emerged as a vital mode of healthcare delivery, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has progressively implemented VC services across government health clinics in Malaysia, guided by national digital health strategies. As VC becomes integral to primary care, evaluating patient satisfaction and experience becomes essential to ensure service quality. Despite the global availability of various tools, a lack of validated instruments remains in the context of Malaysian primary care, particularly in Malay. This narrative review aims to identify existing instruments used to assess patient satisfaction and experience with VC, evaluate their relevance and psychometric robustness, and highlight gaps in measurement, particularly for public primary care in Malaysia.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, employing a comprehensive search strategy combining MeSH terms and text words related to "patient satisfaction," "patient experience," "surveys and questionnaires," and "telemedicine." The search was restricted to English-language publications involving adult populations and returned 876 articles. After applying the free full-text filter, 397 articles were screened. Title and abstract screening yielded 83 potentially eligible studies, from which only eight were found to involve original development or adaptation of relevant instruments and were included for further analysis.
RESULTS: Among the seven included studies, most questionnaires were focused primarily on domains related to usability and acceptability, such as interface ease, access, and convenience. However, few instruments addressed core components of clinical care quality, including communication, diagnostic confidence, care continuity, and coordination. Furthermore, none of the reviewed questionnaires underwent complete validation and reliability assessment within the context of Malaysian primary care. Four studies were conducted in Malaysia; however, these either lacked robust validation processes or focused solely on acceptability. Additionally, no tools were validated in Malay or tailored specifically to the cultural and healthcare delivery context of Malaysia's government clinics.
CONCLUSION: The findings reveal a significant methodological gap in assessing patient satisfaction and experience with VC in Malaysian primary care. Existing tools largely derive from models focused on technology usability or service acceptability, with limited attention to the clinical dimensions of virtual care. Instruments such as the Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQ), the Telemedicine Usability Survey (TUS) and the Service User Technology Acceptability Questionnaire (SUTAQ) offer partial frameworks but lack comprehensive validation or contextual adaptation. In Malaysia, while efforts have been made to develop VC-related surveys, these are insufficiently validated and often lack specificity for primary care. Moreover, tools currently in use do not capture the broader service quality domains emphasised by frameworks like SERVQUAL or Picker's Patient Experience Principles. As VC services expand in Malaysian public healthcare, there is an urgent need to develop and validate culturally appropriate, linguistically accessible, and psychometrically sound questionnaires to assess patient satisfaction and experience. These instruments must integrate both technological usability and the core clinical components of healthcare delivery. Such efforts are essential to guide quality improvement and ensure that VC services align with patients' needs and expectations in the primary care setting.
Additional Links: PMID-41016005
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016005,
year = {2025},
author = {Nasim, AK and Khalid, I and Isa, MR},
title = {Patient satisfaction and experience for virtual consultation services in the Malaysian government health clinics: A review.},
journal = {The Medical journal of Malaysia},
volume = {80},
number = {5},
pages = {627-634},
pmid = {41016005},
issn = {0300-5283},
mesh = {Humans ; *Patient Satisfaction ; Malaysia ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Telemedicine ; Primary Health Care ; *Remote Consultation ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Virtual consultation (VC) has emerged as a vital mode of healthcare delivery, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has progressively implemented VC services across government health clinics in Malaysia, guided by national digital health strategies. As VC becomes integral to primary care, evaluating patient satisfaction and experience becomes essential to ensure service quality. Despite the global availability of various tools, a lack of validated instruments remains in the context of Malaysian primary care, particularly in Malay. This narrative review aims to identify existing instruments used to assess patient satisfaction and experience with VC, evaluate their relevance and psychometric robustness, and highlight gaps in measurement, particularly for public primary care in Malaysia.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, employing a comprehensive search strategy combining MeSH terms and text words related to "patient satisfaction," "patient experience," "surveys and questionnaires," and "telemedicine." The search was restricted to English-language publications involving adult populations and returned 876 articles. After applying the free full-text filter, 397 articles were screened. Title and abstract screening yielded 83 potentially eligible studies, from which only eight were found to involve original development or adaptation of relevant instruments and were included for further analysis.
RESULTS: Among the seven included studies, most questionnaires were focused primarily on domains related to usability and acceptability, such as interface ease, access, and convenience. However, few instruments addressed core components of clinical care quality, including communication, diagnostic confidence, care continuity, and coordination. Furthermore, none of the reviewed questionnaires underwent complete validation and reliability assessment within the context of Malaysian primary care. Four studies were conducted in Malaysia; however, these either lacked robust validation processes or focused solely on acceptability. Additionally, no tools were validated in Malay or tailored specifically to the cultural and healthcare delivery context of Malaysia's government clinics.
CONCLUSION: The findings reveal a significant methodological gap in assessing patient satisfaction and experience with VC in Malaysian primary care. Existing tools largely derive from models focused on technology usability or service acceptability, with limited attention to the clinical dimensions of virtual care. Instruments such as the Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQ), the Telemedicine Usability Survey (TUS) and the Service User Technology Acceptability Questionnaire (SUTAQ) offer partial frameworks but lack comprehensive validation or contextual adaptation. In Malaysia, while efforts have been made to develop VC-related surveys, these are insufficiently validated and often lack specificity for primary care. Moreover, tools currently in use do not capture the broader service quality domains emphasised by frameworks like SERVQUAL or Picker's Patient Experience Principles. As VC services expand in Malaysian public healthcare, there is an urgent need to develop and validate culturally appropriate, linguistically accessible, and psychometrically sound questionnaires to assess patient satisfaction and experience. These instruments must integrate both technological usability and the core clinical components of healthcare delivery. Such efforts are essential to guide quality improvement and ensure that VC services align with patients' needs and expectations in the primary care setting.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Patient Satisfaction
Malaysia
COVID-19/epidemiology
Telemedicine
Primary Health Care
*Remote Consultation
Surveys and Questionnaires
RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-28
Systematic review of challenges of telehealth-based intervention in managing cancer pain.
The Medical journal of Malaysia, 80(5):600-611.
INTRODUCTION: Understanding the challenges of telehealth interventions is essential to determining their future direction in cancer pain management, as these are considered complex interventions. This systematic review aimed to identify the challenges associated with telehealthbased interventions in cancer pain management.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. A systematic search was conducted from January 19 to February 2, 2022, covering the past 10 years. Databases searched included PubMed and EBSCO. Inclusion criteria were articles published in English focusing on cancer pain in patients with any cancer diagnosis. Data were extracted on participants, interventions, and outcomes, with a particular focus on challenges reported in each study. A total of 320 publications were retrieved and screened; 38 articles met the inclusion criteria.
RESULTS: The most reported challenge was limited or slow Internet access, followed by lack of technological expertise among healthcare teams and low computer literacy. Human resource-related challenges were also frequently reported, including inadequate reimbursement mechanisms, concerns over malpractice, increased staff workload, and absence of formal organisational structures. In studies conducted after the COVID-19 pandemic, data-related issues such as data security and management were also highlighted.
CONCLUSION: Telehealth is a rapidly growing technology with the potential to transform healthcare delivery. Addressing the challenges identified in this review may help guide the development and implementation of more effective telehealth interventions in cancer pain management.
Additional Links: PMID-41016003
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41016003,
year = {2025},
author = {Mogan, S and Samprith, A and Muthusamy, V and Samuganathan, D and Zaigham, MT and Idrees, Z and Mogan, L},
title = {Systematic review of challenges of telehealth-based intervention in managing cancer pain.},
journal = {The Medical journal of Malaysia},
volume = {80},
number = {5},
pages = {600-611},
pmid = {41016003},
issn = {0300-5283},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine ; *Cancer Pain/therapy ; *Pain Management/methods ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Neoplasms/complications ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Understanding the challenges of telehealth interventions is essential to determining their future direction in cancer pain management, as these are considered complex interventions. This systematic review aimed to identify the challenges associated with telehealthbased interventions in cancer pain management.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. A systematic search was conducted from January 19 to February 2, 2022, covering the past 10 years. Databases searched included PubMed and EBSCO. Inclusion criteria were articles published in English focusing on cancer pain in patients with any cancer diagnosis. Data were extracted on participants, interventions, and outcomes, with a particular focus on challenges reported in each study. A total of 320 publications were retrieved and screened; 38 articles met the inclusion criteria.
RESULTS: The most reported challenge was limited or slow Internet access, followed by lack of technological expertise among healthcare teams and low computer literacy. Human resource-related challenges were also frequently reported, including inadequate reimbursement mechanisms, concerns over malpractice, increased staff workload, and absence of formal organisational structures. In studies conducted after the COVID-19 pandemic, data-related issues such as data security and management were also highlighted.
CONCLUSION: Telehealth is a rapidly growing technology with the potential to transform healthcare delivery. Addressing the challenges identified in this review may help guide the development and implementation of more effective telehealth interventions in cancer pain management.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Telemedicine
*Cancer Pain/therapy
*Pain Management/methods
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Neoplasms/complications
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Interleukin-10 family cytokines: key regulators and novel therapeutic targets for respiratory diseases.
Inflammopharmacology [Epub ahead of print].
Respiratory disorders such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary fibrosis, and infectious conditions including COVID-19 and tuberculosis continue to rank among the foremost causes of illness and death worldwide. Although vaccines, antimicrobial treatments, and anti-inflammatory agents have improved disease management, their overall impact remains limited because of the intricate regulation of immune responses at epithelial surfaces. Within this context, the interleukin-10 (IL-10) cytokine family (comprising IL-10, IL-19, IL-20, IL-22, IL-24, and IL-26) has been identified as a key immunological axis in the respiratory tract. These cytokines possess structural homology and predominantly transmit signals through heterodimeric class II receptors via the JAK-STAT cascade. However, their functions are far from uniform: IL-10 primarily exerts suppressive effects on inflammation, whereas IL-19, IL-20, IL-24, and IL-26 are commonly associated with tissue injury, chronic inflammation, and airway remodeling. IL-22 occupies an intermediate role, promoting epithelial regeneration under certain conditions but aggravating inflammation or tumorigenesis in others. This article reviews recent findings on the IL-10 family in a range of respiratory diseases, emphasizing their context-dependent activity, value as potential biomarkers, and relevance as therapeutic targets. A clearer understanding of how protective versus pathogenic signals are balanced within this cytokine network is essential for designing targeted interventions that preserve host defense while restoring airway integrity.
Additional Links: PMID-41015960
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41015960,
year = {2025},
author = {Goleij, P and Amini, A and Abolfazli, S and Heidari, MM and Tabari, MAK and Aschner, M and Larsen, DS and Khan, H and Daglia, M},
title = {Interleukin-10 family cytokines: key regulators and novel therapeutic targets for respiratory diseases.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41015960},
issn = {1568-5608},
abstract = {Respiratory disorders such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary fibrosis, and infectious conditions including COVID-19 and tuberculosis continue to rank among the foremost causes of illness and death worldwide. Although vaccines, antimicrobial treatments, and anti-inflammatory agents have improved disease management, their overall impact remains limited because of the intricate regulation of immune responses at epithelial surfaces. Within this context, the interleukin-10 (IL-10) cytokine family (comprising IL-10, IL-19, IL-20, IL-22, IL-24, and IL-26) has been identified as a key immunological axis in the respiratory tract. These cytokines possess structural homology and predominantly transmit signals through heterodimeric class II receptors via the JAK-STAT cascade. However, their functions are far from uniform: IL-10 primarily exerts suppressive effects on inflammation, whereas IL-19, IL-20, IL-24, and IL-26 are commonly associated with tissue injury, chronic inflammation, and airway remodeling. IL-22 occupies an intermediate role, promoting epithelial regeneration under certain conditions but aggravating inflammation or tumorigenesis in others. This article reviews recent findings on the IL-10 family in a range of respiratory diseases, emphasizing their context-dependent activity, value as potential biomarkers, and relevance as therapeutic targets. A clearer understanding of how protective versus pathogenic signals are balanced within this cytokine network is essential for designing targeted interventions that preserve host defense while restoring airway integrity.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-28
Understanding Police Response in Intimate Partner Violence Research Before COVID-19: A Systematic Review of Studies Using Police Response as an Outcome Variable.
Trauma, violence & abuse [Epub ahead of print].
To provide an overview of research trends and commonly measured variables in intimate partner violence (IPV) studies before COVID-19, this study conducted a systematic review to examine how various types of police responses to IPV have been studied and what factors influence the outcomes of those responses. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-P guidelines, 1,259 articles initially identified were filtered and screened for relevance. The final set of 23 selected articles was independently coded following the developed coding scheme, and all codings were cross-checked and validated to ensure accuracy and consistency. The systematic review found that the majority of the selected studies focused on identifying the factors associated with police response to IPV (69.5%), used a quantitative research design (91.3%), and utilized secondary data (91.3%). Notably, 70% of the studies did not incorporate a theoretical framework. Arrest was the most frequently tested outcome variable in police response, appearing in 91.3% of the studies. Additionally, 65% of the studies offered one or more practical policy recommendations. This study also highlighted a gap in the literature, underscoring the need for research that examines dynamic and different types of police responses to IPV. By identifying prevailing research trends, commonly used methodologies, and frequently measured variables, the study provides a comprehensive overview of how police responses have been studied as an outcome variable and what factors have been examined with it. The study findings advance academic understanding, future research directions, and policy development to improve police responses to IPV.
Additional Links: PMID-41015887
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41015887,
year = {2025},
author = {Lim, H and Kim, C},
title = {Understanding Police Response in Intimate Partner Violence Research Before COVID-19: A Systematic Review of Studies Using Police Response as an Outcome Variable.},
journal = {Trauma, violence & abuse},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15248380251375490},
doi = {10.1177/15248380251375490},
pmid = {41015887},
issn = {1552-8324},
abstract = {To provide an overview of research trends and commonly measured variables in intimate partner violence (IPV) studies before COVID-19, this study conducted a systematic review to examine how various types of police responses to IPV have been studied and what factors influence the outcomes of those responses. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-P guidelines, 1,259 articles initially identified were filtered and screened for relevance. The final set of 23 selected articles was independently coded following the developed coding scheme, and all codings were cross-checked and validated to ensure accuracy and consistency. The systematic review found that the majority of the selected studies focused on identifying the factors associated with police response to IPV (69.5%), used a quantitative research design (91.3%), and utilized secondary data (91.3%). Notably, 70% of the studies did not incorporate a theoretical framework. Arrest was the most frequently tested outcome variable in police response, appearing in 91.3% of the studies. Additionally, 65% of the studies offered one or more practical policy recommendations. This study also highlighted a gap in the literature, underscoring the need for research that examines dynamic and different types of police responses to IPV. By identifying prevailing research trends, commonly used methodologies, and frequently measured variables, the study provides a comprehensive overview of how police responses have been studied as an outcome variable and what factors have been examined with it. The study findings advance academic understanding, future research directions, and policy development to improve police responses to IPV.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-27
hMPV co-infections: Distinct immunopathogenic mechanisms and clinical implications of viral and bacterial pathogenesis.
Folia microbiologica [Epub ahead of print].
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) co-infections with viral and bacterial pathogens are increasingly recognized as major contributors to severe respiratory disease, especially in children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. This review summarizes current knowledge of hMPV co-infections with respiratory viruses (e.g., hRSV, influenza, SARS-CoV-2) and bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae), highlighting both shared and distinct pathogenic pathways. Viral co-infections often intensify inflammation through prolonged replication and type I interferon (IFN) suppression, whereas bacterial co-infections exploit epithelial injury and mucin overproduction to enhance adhesion, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance. Converging mechanisms include epithelial disruption and IL-6/TNF-α-driven cytokine dysregulation, both of which contribute to worsened outcomes. A structured literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies on hMPV co-infections, immune responses, and clinical outcomes. The novelty of this review lies in its comparative perspective, distinguishing viral from bacterial interactions to clarify overlapping versus pathogen-specific mechanisms. Clinically, this distinction informs diagnostics, highlights gaps in therapeutic strategies, and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to reduce the burden of severe hMPV-associated respiratory disease.
Additional Links: PMID-41015614
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41015614,
year = {2025},
author = {Shah, SSTH and Naeem, I and Bhutta, NK and Han, G and Noor, F},
title = {hMPV co-infections: Distinct immunopathogenic mechanisms and clinical implications of viral and bacterial pathogenesis.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41015614},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) co-infections with viral and bacterial pathogens are increasingly recognized as major contributors to severe respiratory disease, especially in children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. This review summarizes current knowledge of hMPV co-infections with respiratory viruses (e.g., hRSV, influenza, SARS-CoV-2) and bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae), highlighting both shared and distinct pathogenic pathways. Viral co-infections often intensify inflammation through prolonged replication and type I interferon (IFN) suppression, whereas bacterial co-infections exploit epithelial injury and mucin overproduction to enhance adhesion, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance. Converging mechanisms include epithelial disruption and IL-6/TNF-α-driven cytokine dysregulation, both of which contribute to worsened outcomes. A structured literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies on hMPV co-infections, immune responses, and clinical outcomes. The novelty of this review lies in its comparative perspective, distinguishing viral from bacterial interactions to clarify overlapping versus pathogen-specific mechanisms. Clinically, this distinction informs diagnostics, highlights gaps in therapeutic strategies, and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to reduce the burden of severe hMPV-associated respiratory disease.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-27
The Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network: 15 Years of Promoting Human and Animal Health by Collaborating with the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Community.
Journal of food protection pii:S0362-028X(25)00177-2 [Epub ahead of print].
The Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN), a collaborative network established in 2010, is a partnership between the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA CVM) and 48 veterinary diagnostic laboratories (VDLs) across North America. Vet-LIRN actively supports the CVM mission of protecting human and animal health by leveraging its network of VDLs. Initially focused on issues in animal foods, including by testing animal diagnostic samples, Vet-LIRN now addresses a broad range of CVM's priorities. These include responding to animal foodborne illness outbreaks, developing new methods to detect potential microbial and chemical contaminants in animal foods, tracking antimicrobial resistance (AMR), promoting antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary medicine, and preparing for emerging One Health threats such as COVID-19 and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Over the past 15 years, Vet-LIRN has played a pivotal role in many high-profile and important public health success stories, such as responding to multidrug-resistant Campylobacter outbreaks in puppies, aflatoxin contamination in pet food, Salmonella in pig ear treats, and botulinum toxin in alfalfa cubes. Additionally, Vet-LIRN's AMR monitoring program collects data to understand AMR trends and assist in the response to foodborne and zoonotic outbreaks. Through collaboration with other key stakeholders such as CVM regulatory colleagues and external partners at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Vet-LIRN ensures rapid responses to critical issues. Looking ahead, Vet-LIRN remains dedicated to continuous improvements, reinforcing its commitment to the sustained protection of human and animal health.
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@article {pmid41015338,
year = {2025},
author = {Nemser, SM and Ceric, O and Guag, J and Pauley, S and Jones, A and Proia, K and Miller, MR and Tkachenko, A and Rotstein, D and Hodges, A and Reimschuessel, R and Tyson, GH},
title = {The Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network: 15 Years of Promoting Human and Animal Health by Collaborating with the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Community.},
journal = {Journal of food protection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100625},
doi = {10.1016/j.jfp.2025.100625},
pmid = {41015338},
issn = {1944-9097},
abstract = {The Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN), a collaborative network established in 2010, is a partnership between the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA CVM) and 48 veterinary diagnostic laboratories (VDLs) across North America. Vet-LIRN actively supports the CVM mission of protecting human and animal health by leveraging its network of VDLs. Initially focused on issues in animal foods, including by testing animal diagnostic samples, Vet-LIRN now addresses a broad range of CVM's priorities. These include responding to animal foodborne illness outbreaks, developing new methods to detect potential microbial and chemical contaminants in animal foods, tracking antimicrobial resistance (AMR), promoting antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary medicine, and preparing for emerging One Health threats such as COVID-19 and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Over the past 15 years, Vet-LIRN has played a pivotal role in many high-profile and important public health success stories, such as responding to multidrug-resistant Campylobacter outbreaks in puppies, aflatoxin contamination in pet food, Salmonella in pig ear treats, and botulinum toxin in alfalfa cubes. Additionally, Vet-LIRN's AMR monitoring program collects data to understand AMR trends and assist in the response to foodborne and zoonotic outbreaks. Through collaboration with other key stakeholders such as CVM regulatory colleagues and external partners at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Vet-LIRN ensures rapid responses to critical issues. Looking ahead, Vet-LIRN remains dedicated to continuous improvements, reinforcing its commitment to the sustained protection of human and animal health.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-27
The double-edged sword: How SARS-CoV-2 might fuel lung cancer: Investigating the potential oncogenic mechanisms of the novel coronavirus in lung carcinogenesis.
Molecular aspects of medicine, 106:101413 pii:S0098-2997(25)00077-9 [Epub ahead of print].
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had far-reaching consequences beyond acute respiratory illness, with growing evidence suggesting potential long-term oncogenic effects. Lung cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, may intersect with COVID-19 through shared molecular pathways and altered disease dynamics. SARS-CoV-2 can exacerbate outcomes in existing cancer patients and potentially contribute to de novo lung carcinogenesis or accelerate progression via chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, cellular senescence, cell cycle disruption, metabolic reprogramming, and autophagy impairment. It has been proven that although the SARS virus is not capable of integrating into the host genome, it uses the mechanisms of other human oncoviruses to cause lung cancer. Post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis, observed in up to one-third of severe cases, may act as a tumor precursor bridge through sustained tissue remodeling, extracellular matrix stiffness, and hypoxia-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Epidemiological studies indicate increased cancer-related mortality, metastatic reactivation of dormant cancer cells, and diagnostic delays, shifting presentations toward advanced stages during the pandemic. Synergistic risk factors, including smoking, air pollution, occupational exposures, and genetic predispositions, may further amplify oncogenic potential. The convergence of viral, environmental, and host factors creates a critical need for vigilant surveillance, biomarker development, and preventive strategies. This study aims to synthesize current epidemiological evidence, elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 may influence lung carcinogenesis, and highlight clinical implications to guide future research, screening, and therapeutic interventions.
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@article {pmid41014797,
year = {2025},
author = {Shen, W and Guo, Y and Ai, C and Wang, X and Li, G},
title = {The double-edged sword: How SARS-CoV-2 might fuel lung cancer: Investigating the potential oncogenic mechanisms of the novel coronavirus in lung carcinogenesis.},
journal = {Molecular aspects of medicine},
volume = {106},
number = {},
pages = {101413},
doi = {10.1016/j.mam.2025.101413},
pmid = {41014797},
issn = {1872-9452},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had far-reaching consequences beyond acute respiratory illness, with growing evidence suggesting potential long-term oncogenic effects. Lung cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, may intersect with COVID-19 through shared molecular pathways and altered disease dynamics. SARS-CoV-2 can exacerbate outcomes in existing cancer patients and potentially contribute to de novo lung carcinogenesis or accelerate progression via chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, cellular senescence, cell cycle disruption, metabolic reprogramming, and autophagy impairment. It has been proven that although the SARS virus is not capable of integrating into the host genome, it uses the mechanisms of other human oncoviruses to cause lung cancer. Post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis, observed in up to one-third of severe cases, may act as a tumor precursor bridge through sustained tissue remodeling, extracellular matrix stiffness, and hypoxia-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Epidemiological studies indicate increased cancer-related mortality, metastatic reactivation of dormant cancer cells, and diagnostic delays, shifting presentations toward advanced stages during the pandemic. Synergistic risk factors, including smoking, air pollution, occupational exposures, and genetic predispositions, may further amplify oncogenic potential. The convergence of viral, environmental, and host factors creates a critical need for vigilant surveillance, biomarker development, and preventive strategies. This study aims to synthesize current epidemiological evidence, elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 may influence lung carcinogenesis, and highlight clinical implications to guide future research, screening, and therapeutic interventions.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-27
A scoping review of community participation in public health research and action during the COVID-19 pandemic: Exploring approaches on the continuum between utilitarianism and empowerment.
Social science & medicine (1982), 385:118556 pii:S0277-9536(25)00887-1 [Epub ahead of print].
Community participation played a crucial role in addressing health inequities during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in reaching marginalized populations and fostering resilience. Amid the wide variation of participatory approaches in community health-from information dissemination to co-decision-making-, there remains a lack of comprehensive analysis on their implementation, impact, and effectiveness. This scoping review synthesizes participatory approaches used during the pandemic, addressing three key gaps: (1) the depth and breadth of participation, (2) the types of communities engaged and the public health issues addressed, and (3) the impact of participation on community health. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, we systematically searched nine bibliographic databases, identifying 20,672 records. After removing duplicates and screening articles based on predefined inclusion criteria, we included 127 studies. Our analysis included mapping participation depth using Arnstein's ladder, categorizing motivations as utilitarian or emancipatory, and identifying the types of communities engaged and the community health issues addressed. We also examined community health outcomes and developed a conceptual heuristic framework to better characterize participatory approaches. Based on our findings, we propose eight key recommendations for improving the implementation and reporting of participatory approaches in community health. These include providing clear definitions of community and community health, ensuring transparency in participation levels and phases, elaborating on participatory methods, avoiding (re)stigmatization, and promoting community-driven research and action. By enhancing participatory practice and evaluation, these recommendations can support more equitable, effective, and sustainable community health interventions in pandemic contexts and beyond.
Additional Links: PMID-41014724
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41014724,
year = {2025},
author = {Frahsa, A and Liwanag, HJ and Kobler Betancourt, C and Ipekci, AM and Minder, B and Schow, D},
title = {A scoping review of community participation in public health research and action during the COVID-19 pandemic: Exploring approaches on the continuum between utilitarianism and empowerment.},
journal = {Social science & medicine (1982)},
volume = {385},
number = {},
pages = {118556},
doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118556},
pmid = {41014724},
issn = {1873-5347},
abstract = {Community participation played a crucial role in addressing health inequities during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in reaching marginalized populations and fostering resilience. Amid the wide variation of participatory approaches in community health-from information dissemination to co-decision-making-, there remains a lack of comprehensive analysis on their implementation, impact, and effectiveness. This scoping review synthesizes participatory approaches used during the pandemic, addressing three key gaps: (1) the depth and breadth of participation, (2) the types of communities engaged and the public health issues addressed, and (3) the impact of participation on community health. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, we systematically searched nine bibliographic databases, identifying 20,672 records. After removing duplicates and screening articles based on predefined inclusion criteria, we included 127 studies. Our analysis included mapping participation depth using Arnstein's ladder, categorizing motivations as utilitarian or emancipatory, and identifying the types of communities engaged and the community health issues addressed. We also examined community health outcomes and developed a conceptual heuristic framework to better characterize participatory approaches. Based on our findings, we propose eight key recommendations for improving the implementation and reporting of participatory approaches in community health. These include providing clear definitions of community and community health, ensuring transparency in participation levels and phases, elaborating on participatory methods, avoiding (re)stigmatization, and promoting community-driven research and action. By enhancing participatory practice and evaluation, these recommendations can support more equitable, effective, and sustainable community health interventions in pandemic contexts and beyond.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Effectiveness of surgical interventions in patients with severe pressure ulcers: the SIPS mixed-methods exploratory study.
Health technology assessment (Winchester, England), 29(47):1-150.
BACKGROUND: Surgical reconstruction to close a severe pressure ulcer has not been evaluated.
AIM AND OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the feasibility of research to evaluate surgical reconstruction for severe pressure ulcers by: systematically reviewing evidence about: the effectiveness of surgical reconstruction for severe pressure ulcers; the impact of pressure ulceration on health-related quality-of-life (review 2) surveying primary and secondary care healthcare professionals about surgical referrals of patients with severe pressure ulcers and severe pressure ulcer management, including surgical reconstruction describing patients with incident pressure ulcers and with severe pressure ulcers having surgical reconstruction comparing outcomes in patients with severe pressure ulcers having/not having surgical reconstruction seeking consensus about treatments and management strategies for severe pressure ulcers.
DESIGN: Systematic reviews; surveys; binary choice experiment; retrospective cohort studies using routine data; consensus meeting.
PARTICIPANTS: General practitioners; nurses; and surgeons managing pressure ulcers; people with incident pressure ulcers and hospitalised with severe pressure ulcers.
INTERVENTION: Surgical reconstruction.
COMPARATOR: No surgical reconstruction.
OUTCOMES: Surgical reconstruction, time to next admission with a severe pressure ulcer time to next admission, hospital stay, all-cause mortality, surgical reconstruction after discharge.
RESULTS: Review 1 included three studies comparing different surgical reconstruction techniques. None reported wound-free time. Recurrence occurred in ≈ 20%. Review 2 included three randomised controlled trials measuring health-related quality of life, but none observed benefits of interventions evaluated. Among primary care survey respondents, 54% did not know surgical reconstruction can treat severe pressure ulcers; > 50% had never referred a patient to a surgeon. Among nurses, 72% had considered surgical reconstruction for a severe pressure ulcer; 54% believed surgical reconstruction should be more available. Among surgeons, 39% had never offered surgical reconstruction and 52% offered surgical reconstruction to < 50%; 68% believed surgical reconstruction should be more available. Routine data recorded 367,884 admissions with severe pressure ulcer diagnoses in England over 7.5 years; surgical reconstructions were performed in at least 404 and at most 1018 admissions. Twenty English hospitals performed > 70% of the surgical reconstructions. Comparing surgical reconstruction (n = 325) versus no surgical reconstruction (n = 1474) patients, time to next admission with a severe pressure ulcer was longer in patients having surgical reconstruction (hazard ratio = 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.61 to 1.03; p = 0.07). Estimated pressure ulcer incidence in primary care was ≈ 5/10,000, but the true incidence was believed to be ≈ 7 times higher. Episodes of pressure ulcer care could not be identified. There was consensus about a referral pathway for severe pressure ulcer patients wanting surgical reconstruction, including both community-led and surgically led multidisciplinary team meetings, and about the influence of several patient and severe pressure ulcer characteristics on suitability for surgical reconstruction.
LIMITATIONS: Surveys only considered factors one by one. Analyses of the Hospital Episode Statistics cohort depended on coding accuracy. For the comparison of surgical reconstruction and no surgical reconstruction, the no surgical reconstruction group had to be admitted. Routine data do not record wound healing outcomes. Primary care data underestimated pressure ulcer incidence; pressure ulcer care episodes could not be identified. The consensus meeting did not include surgeons. The COVID-19 pandemic caused delays, made team members unavailable and restricted face-to-face meetings.
CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of surgical reconstruction on health-related quality of life or wound healing for severe pressure ulcers. Too few procedures are carried out to enable a randomised controlled trial to be feasible.
FUTURE WORK: We identified three areas: qualitative research on the acceptability of surgical reconstruction and the impact of a SPU on a patient's quality-of-life; a core outcome set for interventions to treat pressure ulcers; and economic modelling of surgical reconstruction cost-effectiveness.
STUDY REGISTRATION: This study is registered as PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019156436, 2019 CRD42019156450; ISRCTN13292620.
FUNDING: This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: NIHR127850) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 29, No. 47. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.
Additional Links: PMID-41014516
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41014516,
year = {2025},
author = {Reeves, B and Pufulete, M and Harris, J and Dumville, J and Adderley, U and Burton, A and Burton, M and Atkinson, R and Clout, M and Cullum, N and O'Connell, A and O'Connor, L and Palmer, S and Ridd, M and Rodrigues, J and Wong, J},
title = {Effectiveness of surgical interventions in patients with severe pressure ulcers: the SIPS mixed-methods exploratory study.},
journal = {Health technology assessment (Winchester, England)},
volume = {29},
number = {47},
pages = {1-150},
doi = {10.3310/DWKT1327},
pmid = {41014516},
issn = {2046-4924},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pressure Ulcer/surgery ; Quality of Life ; Retrospective Studies ; Severity of Illness Index ; Treatment Outcome ; Male ; *Plastic Surgery Procedures/methods ; Female ; Technology Assessment, Biomedical ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Surgical reconstruction to close a severe pressure ulcer has not been evaluated.
AIM AND OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the feasibility of research to evaluate surgical reconstruction for severe pressure ulcers by: systematically reviewing evidence about: the effectiveness of surgical reconstruction for severe pressure ulcers; the impact of pressure ulceration on health-related quality-of-life (review 2) surveying primary and secondary care healthcare professionals about surgical referrals of patients with severe pressure ulcers and severe pressure ulcer management, including surgical reconstruction describing patients with incident pressure ulcers and with severe pressure ulcers having surgical reconstruction comparing outcomes in patients with severe pressure ulcers having/not having surgical reconstruction seeking consensus about treatments and management strategies for severe pressure ulcers.
DESIGN: Systematic reviews; surveys; binary choice experiment; retrospective cohort studies using routine data; consensus meeting.
PARTICIPANTS: General practitioners; nurses; and surgeons managing pressure ulcers; people with incident pressure ulcers and hospitalised with severe pressure ulcers.
INTERVENTION: Surgical reconstruction.
COMPARATOR: No surgical reconstruction.
OUTCOMES: Surgical reconstruction, time to next admission with a severe pressure ulcer time to next admission, hospital stay, all-cause mortality, surgical reconstruction after discharge.
RESULTS: Review 1 included three studies comparing different surgical reconstruction techniques. None reported wound-free time. Recurrence occurred in ≈ 20%. Review 2 included three randomised controlled trials measuring health-related quality of life, but none observed benefits of interventions evaluated. Among primary care survey respondents, 54% did not know surgical reconstruction can treat severe pressure ulcers; > 50% had never referred a patient to a surgeon. Among nurses, 72% had considered surgical reconstruction for a severe pressure ulcer; 54% believed surgical reconstruction should be more available. Among surgeons, 39% had never offered surgical reconstruction and 52% offered surgical reconstruction to < 50%; 68% believed surgical reconstruction should be more available. Routine data recorded 367,884 admissions with severe pressure ulcer diagnoses in England over 7.5 years; surgical reconstructions were performed in at least 404 and at most 1018 admissions. Twenty English hospitals performed > 70% of the surgical reconstructions. Comparing surgical reconstruction (n = 325) versus no surgical reconstruction (n = 1474) patients, time to next admission with a severe pressure ulcer was longer in patients having surgical reconstruction (hazard ratio = 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.61 to 1.03; p = 0.07). Estimated pressure ulcer incidence in primary care was ≈ 5/10,000, but the true incidence was believed to be ≈ 7 times higher. Episodes of pressure ulcer care could not be identified. There was consensus about a referral pathway for severe pressure ulcer patients wanting surgical reconstruction, including both community-led and surgically led multidisciplinary team meetings, and about the influence of several patient and severe pressure ulcer characteristics on suitability for surgical reconstruction.
LIMITATIONS: Surveys only considered factors one by one. Analyses of the Hospital Episode Statistics cohort depended on coding accuracy. For the comparison of surgical reconstruction and no surgical reconstruction, the no surgical reconstruction group had to be admitted. Routine data do not record wound healing outcomes. Primary care data underestimated pressure ulcer incidence; pressure ulcer care episodes could not be identified. The consensus meeting did not include surgeons. The COVID-19 pandemic caused delays, made team members unavailable and restricted face-to-face meetings.
CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of surgical reconstruction on health-related quality of life or wound healing for severe pressure ulcers. Too few procedures are carried out to enable a randomised controlled trial to be feasible.
FUTURE WORK: We identified three areas: qualitative research on the acceptability of surgical reconstruction and the impact of a SPU on a patient's quality-of-life; a core outcome set for interventions to treat pressure ulcers; and economic modelling of surgical reconstruction cost-effectiveness.
STUDY REGISTRATION: This study is registered as PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019156436, 2019 CRD42019156450; ISRCTN13292620.
FUNDING: This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: NIHR127850) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 29, No. 47. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Pressure Ulcer/surgery
Quality of Life
Retrospective Studies
Severity of Illness Index
Treatment Outcome
Male
*Plastic Surgery Procedures/methods
Female
Technology Assessment, Biomedical
RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Endophytes in Medicinal Plants: A Sustainable Solution for Coping with Environmental Stresses.
Current microbiology, 82(11):529.
The increasing need for integrative and alternative medical therapies, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 epidemic, has emphasized the importance of medicinal plants in worldwide healthcare. These plants, which contain abundant bioactive secondary metabolites, provide a sustainable and cost-effective option for medicinal, adaptogenic, and immune-boosting purposes. Blooming medicinal plants that exist are at risk of becoming extinct because of excessive harvesting, deforestation, and wildfires. Medicinal plants have complex physiological defenses against stress, which are strengthened by their symbiotic relationship with endophytes. Endophytes are microbial colonies that live within plant tissues without causing harm and play a vital role in maintaining the health of plants by helping them to tolerate stress, promoting development, acquiring nutrients, synthesizing phytohormones, breaking down toxic substances, and improving plant resistance to environmental pressures such as high salt levels, lack of water, and exposure to heavy metals. In addition, endophytes have a role in managing biotic stress by engaging in antibiosis, synthesizing lytic enzymes, producing secondary metabolites, and regulating hormones. Their function in preserving the health and well-being of the host, ensuring proper nutrition intake, and enhancing resistance against pathogens highlights their potential as agents for biological control and biofertilization, providing a safer option compared to chemical pesticides. Endophytic inoculants have the potential to significantly transform crop yield in agriculture by reducing the impact of abiotic problems and improving soil health. This review critically evaluates causal studies and recent omics-based advances, highlighting their crucial significance for sustainable bioinoculant development and practical applications in climate-resilient agriculture.
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@article {pmid41014378,
year = {2025},
author = {Upadhyay, A and Khandelwal, V},
title = {Endophytes in Medicinal Plants: A Sustainable Solution for Coping with Environmental Stresses.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {82},
number = {11},
pages = {529},
pmid = {41014378},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {*Endophytes/physiology ; *Plants, Medicinal/microbiology/physiology ; *Stress, Physiological ; Humans ; COVID-19 ; Symbiosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The increasing need for integrative and alternative medical therapies, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 epidemic, has emphasized the importance of medicinal plants in worldwide healthcare. These plants, which contain abundant bioactive secondary metabolites, provide a sustainable and cost-effective option for medicinal, adaptogenic, and immune-boosting purposes. Blooming medicinal plants that exist are at risk of becoming extinct because of excessive harvesting, deforestation, and wildfires. Medicinal plants have complex physiological defenses against stress, which are strengthened by their symbiotic relationship with endophytes. Endophytes are microbial colonies that live within plant tissues without causing harm and play a vital role in maintaining the health of plants by helping them to tolerate stress, promoting development, acquiring nutrients, synthesizing phytohormones, breaking down toxic substances, and improving plant resistance to environmental pressures such as high salt levels, lack of water, and exposure to heavy metals. In addition, endophytes have a role in managing biotic stress by engaging in antibiosis, synthesizing lytic enzymes, producing secondary metabolites, and regulating hormones. Their function in preserving the health and well-being of the host, ensuring proper nutrition intake, and enhancing resistance against pathogens highlights their potential as agents for biological control and biofertilization, providing a safer option compared to chemical pesticides. Endophytic inoculants have the potential to significantly transform crop yield in agriculture by reducing the impact of abiotic problems and improving soil health. This review critically evaluates causal studies and recent omics-based advances, highlighting their crucial significance for sustainable bioinoculant development and practical applications in climate-resilient agriculture.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Endophytes/physiology
*Plants, Medicinal/microbiology/physiology
*Stress, Physiological
Humans
COVID-19
Symbiosis
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-09-27
Vaccinations During Pregnancy Protect the Mother-Infant Dyad and Are Generally Safe.
Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992) [Epub ahead of print].
AIM: Vaccination in pregnancy has a critical impact on mothers, foetuses and infants. The aim of this paper was to summarise key points presented by experts attending the 12th Maria Delivoria-Papadopoulos Perinatal Symposium in March 2025 and further expand and update them.
METHODS: We discuss the benefits and potential side effects of vaccines for tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis, influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and monkeypox. The future use of cytomegalovirus and group B streptococcus vaccines is also covered. Vaccine hesitancy, mainly due to fears of harming the foetus, including preterm delivery, is addressed. The use of evidence-based information to allay fears is explored. Ethical issues about the potential side effects of vaccinating mothers, primarily for the good of the infant, are discussed.
RESULTS: The vaccines we looked at were generally effective and safe, with no considerable adverse effects for the mother-infant dyad. Vaccination hesitancy was predominately based on fears about the adverse effects on the foetus. These can mainly be combated by health professionals providing clear information on the impact on both the mother and her offspring.
CONCLUSION: The vaccines discussed in the paper were generally effective and safe for the mother, foetus and infant.
Additional Links: PMID-41014014
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid41014014,
year = {2025},
author = {Malamitsi-Puchner, A and Briana, DD and Di Renzo, GC},
title = {Vaccinations During Pregnancy Protect the Mother-Infant Dyad and Are Generally Safe.},
journal = {Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/apa.70301},
pmid = {41014014},
issn = {1651-2227},
abstract = {AIM: Vaccination in pregnancy has a critical impact on mothers, foetuses and infants. The aim of this paper was to summarise key points presented by experts attending the 12th Maria Delivoria-Papadopoulos Perinatal Symposium in March 2025 and further expand and update them.
METHODS: We discuss the benefits and potential side effects of vaccines for tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis, influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and monkeypox. The future use of cytomegalovirus and group B streptococcus vaccines is also covered. Vaccine hesitancy, mainly due to fears of harming the foetus, including preterm delivery, is addressed. The use of evidence-based information to allay fears is explored. Ethical issues about the potential side effects of vaccinating mothers, primarily for the good of the infant, are discussed.
RESULTS: The vaccines we looked at were generally effective and safe, with no considerable adverse effects for the mother-infant dyad. Vaccination hesitancy was predominately based on fears about the adverse effects on the foetus. These can mainly be combated by health professionals providing clear information on the impact on both the mother and her offspring.
CONCLUSION: The vaccines discussed in the paper were generally effective and safe for the mother, foetus and infant.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
A meta-analysis of vaccine efficacy from phase III clinical trials of approved vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and variants.
BMC infectious diseases, 25(1):1169.
BACKGROUND: As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and transition to a post-pandemic era, it is crucial to reflect on our experiences and prepare for future pandemics. Here we evaluate the impact of different methods for calculating the vaccine efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, which has not been done previously.
METHODS: We conducted a meta-analysis of 38 approved COVID-19 vaccines using data from phase III clinical trials between May 4, 2020, and June 10, 2022. We analyze vaccine efficacy against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants including the original strain, Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Kappa using multiple endpoints. Clinical endpoints are categorized into a tree structure including asymptomatic infection, symptomatic infection, mild to critical illness, and death. We employ re-estimated vaccine efficacies, including relative risk and Poisson regression with robust error variance, for equitable cross-vaccine comparisons.
RESULTS: We re-estimated 63 vaccine efficacies, revealing a 3% to 6% difference in five efficacies compared to the original study. Four efficacies exhibited lower bounds below the critical 50% threshold for the endpoint asymptomatic, symptomatic, moderate, and severe, contrary to the initial reports. However, efficacy consistently surpasses the 50% threshold against symptomatic COVID-19. Overall efficacies range from 34.2% to 100%, 50.3% to 100% against symptomatic, and 66.8% to 100% against severe, and 65% to 95% against variants.
CONCLUSIONS: Our systematic classification of vaccine endpoints enables more statistically rigorous meta-analyses across studies. Beyond the quantitative results, our study emphasizes the need to standardize the estimation method for robust assessments of vaccine efficacy. We highlight the incompleteness of the knowledge about different vaccine efficacy in the middle of the pandemic, in particular the need to identify variants during the trials and report on multiple endpoints. We encourage all authors to publicly share their data, fostering additional impartial investigations. This data collection enables comparisons with real-world effectiveness data, enabling future studies of the predictive power of efficacy.
Additional Links: PMID-41013291
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41013291,
year = {2025},
author = {Dhayfule, D and Wu, YH and Ashyani, A and Li, MC and Tsai, CS and Chen, PL and Nordling, TEM},
title = {A meta-analysis of vaccine efficacy from phase III clinical trials of approved vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and variants.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1169},
pmid = {41013291},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {105-2218-E-006-016-MY2//Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan/ ; 105-2218-E-006-016-MY2//Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan/ ; 105-2218-E-006-016-MY2//Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan/ ; 111-2221-E-006-186//National Science and Technology Council/ ; 111-2221-E-006-186//National Science and Technology Council/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and transition to a post-pandemic era, it is crucial to reflect on our experiences and prepare for future pandemics. Here we evaluate the impact of different methods for calculating the vaccine efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, which has not been done previously.
METHODS: We conducted a meta-analysis of 38 approved COVID-19 vaccines using data from phase III clinical trials between May 4, 2020, and June 10, 2022. We analyze vaccine efficacy against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants including the original strain, Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Kappa using multiple endpoints. Clinical endpoints are categorized into a tree structure including asymptomatic infection, symptomatic infection, mild to critical illness, and death. We employ re-estimated vaccine efficacies, including relative risk and Poisson regression with robust error variance, for equitable cross-vaccine comparisons.
RESULTS: We re-estimated 63 vaccine efficacies, revealing a 3% to 6% difference in five efficacies compared to the original study. Four efficacies exhibited lower bounds below the critical 50% threshold for the endpoint asymptomatic, symptomatic, moderate, and severe, contrary to the initial reports. However, efficacy consistently surpasses the 50% threshold against symptomatic COVID-19. Overall efficacies range from 34.2% to 100%, 50.3% to 100% against symptomatic, and 66.8% to 100% against severe, and 65% to 95% against variants.
CONCLUSIONS: Our systematic classification of vaccine endpoints enables more statistically rigorous meta-analyses across studies. Beyond the quantitative results, our study emphasizes the need to standardize the estimation method for robust assessments of vaccine efficacy. We highlight the incompleteness of the knowledge about different vaccine efficacy in the middle of the pandemic, in particular the need to identify variants during the trials and report on multiple endpoints. We encourage all authors to publicly share their data, fostering additional impartial investigations. This data collection enables comparisons with real-world effectiveness data, enabling future studies of the predictive power of efficacy.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics
Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic
*Vaccine Efficacy
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
AI-Enabled Microfluidics for Respiratory Pathogen Detection.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland), 25(18):.
Respiratory infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, and tuberculosis, continue to impose a significant global health burden, underscoring the urgent demand for rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic technologies. Integrated microfluidic platforms offer compelling advantages through miniaturization, automation, and high-throughput processing, enabling "sample-in, answer-out" workflows suitable for point-of-care applications. However, their clinical deployment faces challenges, including the complexity of sample matrices, low-abundance target detection, and the need for reliable multiplexing. The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) with microfluidic systems has emerged as a transformative paradigm, addressing these limitations by optimizing chip design, automating sample pre-processing, enhancing signal interpretation, and enabling real-time feedback control. This critical review surveys AI-enabled strategies across each functional layer of respiratory pathogen diagnostics: from chip architecture and fluidic control to amplification analysis, signal prediction, and smartphone/IoT-linked decision support. We highlight key areas where AI offers measurable benefits over conventional methods. To transition from research prototypes to clinical tools, future systems must become more adaptive, data-efficient, and clinically insightful. Advances such as sensor-integrated chips, privacy-preserving machine learning, and multimodal data fusion will be essential to ensure robust performance and meaningful outputs across diverse scenarios. This review outlines recent progress, current limitations, and future directions. The rapid development of AI and microfluidics presents exciting opportunities for next-generation pathogen diagnostics, and we hope this work contributes to the advancement of intelligent, point-of-care testing (POCT) solutions.
Additional Links: PMID-41013029
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41013029,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, D and Lv, X and Jiang, H and Fan, Y and Liu, K and Wang, H and Deng, Y},
title = {AI-Enabled Microfluidics for Respiratory Pathogen Detection.},
journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {25},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41013029},
issn = {1424-8220},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; COVID-19/diagnosis/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Microfluidics/methods ; Lab-On-A-Chip Devices ; Machine Learning ; Point-of-Care Systems ; *Microfluidic Analytical Techniques/methods ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/diagnosis ; Biosensing Techniques ; },
abstract = {Respiratory infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, and tuberculosis, continue to impose a significant global health burden, underscoring the urgent demand for rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic technologies. Integrated microfluidic platforms offer compelling advantages through miniaturization, automation, and high-throughput processing, enabling "sample-in, answer-out" workflows suitable for point-of-care applications. However, their clinical deployment faces challenges, including the complexity of sample matrices, low-abundance target detection, and the need for reliable multiplexing. The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) with microfluidic systems has emerged as a transformative paradigm, addressing these limitations by optimizing chip design, automating sample pre-processing, enhancing signal interpretation, and enabling real-time feedback control. This critical review surveys AI-enabled strategies across each functional layer of respiratory pathogen diagnostics: from chip architecture and fluidic control to amplification analysis, signal prediction, and smartphone/IoT-linked decision support. We highlight key areas where AI offers measurable benefits over conventional methods. To transition from research prototypes to clinical tools, future systems must become more adaptive, data-efficient, and clinically insightful. Advances such as sensor-integrated chips, privacy-preserving machine learning, and multimodal data fusion will be essential to ensure robust performance and meaningful outputs across diverse scenarios. This review outlines recent progress, current limitations, and future directions. The rapid development of AI and microfluidics presents exciting opportunities for next-generation pathogen diagnostics, and we hope this work contributes to the advancement of intelligent, point-of-care testing (POCT) solutions.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
COVID-19/diagnosis/virology
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Microfluidics/methods
Lab-On-A-Chip Devices
Machine Learning
Point-of-Care Systems
*Microfluidic Analytical Techniques/methods
*Respiratory Tract Infections/diagnosis
Biosensing Techniques
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) as a Promising Respiratory Antiseptic.
Viruses, 17(9):.
The COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted unprecedented pressure on communities and healthcare systems around the world. An outstandingly broad and intensive investigation of possible therapeutic interventions is currently taking place to prevent similar future threats to the global population. Investigating the related mechanisms of action is often complex and time consuming. Moreover, research on biochemical interactions of new drugs involves a considerable amount of effort, consequently bearing inherent financial and operational risks for pharmaceutical companies. An interesting approach to counteract colonization and infection is the concept of antiseptic treatment in vivo. Antiseptics are cost-effective and globally accessible, due to their ease of production, transportation and handling. A broad spectrum of active agents with different properties is readily available. One of these substances is hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which is also a naturally occurring biocidal agent and as such part of the innate immune system. Its successful history of medical use in wound treatment, combined with low cytotoxicity and documented efficacy against various pathogens, suggests that HOCl might be an effective agent for treating the respiratory mucosa. This could potentially enable therapeutic inhalation for combating bacterial infections and viral pathogens such as human respiratory syncytial, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 viruses, which will be discussed in the present article.
Additional Links: PMID-41012647
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012647,
year = {2025},
author = {Winter, M and Boecker, D and Posch, W},
title = {Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) as a Promising Respiratory Antiseptic.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012647},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {*Hypochlorous Acid/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Anti-Infective Agents, Local/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted unprecedented pressure on communities and healthcare systems around the world. An outstandingly broad and intensive investigation of possible therapeutic interventions is currently taking place to prevent similar future threats to the global population. Investigating the related mechanisms of action is often complex and time consuming. Moreover, research on biochemical interactions of new drugs involves a considerable amount of effort, consequently bearing inherent financial and operational risks for pharmaceutical companies. An interesting approach to counteract colonization and infection is the concept of antiseptic treatment in vivo. Antiseptics are cost-effective and globally accessible, due to their ease of production, transportation and handling. A broad spectrum of active agents with different properties is readily available. One of these substances is hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which is also a naturally occurring biocidal agent and as such part of the innate immune system. Its successful history of medical use in wound treatment, combined with low cytotoxicity and documented efficacy against various pathogens, suggests that HOCl might be an effective agent for treating the respiratory mucosa. This could potentially enable therapeutic inhalation for combating bacterial infections and viral pathogens such as human respiratory syncytial, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 viruses, which will be discussed in the present article.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Hypochlorous Acid/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
*Anti-Infective Agents, Local/pharmacology/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Animals
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Mechanisms of Thromboinflammation in Viral Infections-A Narrative Review.
Viruses, 17(9):.
The circulatory and immune systems function in close coordination to maintain homeostasis and act as a frontline defense against infections. However, under certain conditions, this interaction becomes dysregulated, leading to thromboinflammation, a pathological process marked by the concurrent and excessive activation of coagulation, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. During viral infections, this phenomenon can markedly worsen clinical outcomes. Evidence indicates that viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, influenza, and SARS-CoV can trigger thromboinflammatory responses involving platelet activation, the release of procoagulant and pro-inflammatory mediators, and the formation of thrombi within blood vessels. While this response may initially help contain viral dissemination, in cases of high viremia it can progress to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), hemorrhage, and multiple organ failure. This review compiles current evidence on thromboinflammatory mechanisms induced by arboviral and respiratory viruses and examines how these processes contribute to diseases' pathogenesis and clinical severity.
Additional Links: PMID-41012635
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012635,
year = {2025},
author = {Batista, VL and Martins, JR and Queiroz-Junior, CM and Hottz, ED and Teixeira, MM and Costa, VV},
title = {Mechanisms of Thromboinflammation in Viral Infections-A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012635},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {465425/2014-3//Brazilian National Science Council (CNPq)/ ; 25036/2014-3//Minas Gerais Foundation for Science (FAPEMIG)/ ; RED-00202-22" 29568-1//FAPEMIG/ ; APQ-04650-23//FAPEMIG/ ; APQ-02618-23.//FAPEMIG/ ; 163937/2022-2//CNPq/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Virus Diseases/complications/virology/immunology ; *Thromboinflammation/virology/immunology ; Animals ; Platelet Activation ; COVID-19 ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {The circulatory and immune systems function in close coordination to maintain homeostasis and act as a frontline defense against infections. However, under certain conditions, this interaction becomes dysregulated, leading to thromboinflammation, a pathological process marked by the concurrent and excessive activation of coagulation, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. During viral infections, this phenomenon can markedly worsen clinical outcomes. Evidence indicates that viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, influenza, and SARS-CoV can trigger thromboinflammatory responses involving platelet activation, the release of procoagulant and pro-inflammatory mediators, and the formation of thrombi within blood vessels. While this response may initially help contain viral dissemination, in cases of high viremia it can progress to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), hemorrhage, and multiple organ failure. This review compiles current evidence on thromboinflammatory mechanisms induced by arboviral and respiratory viruses and examines how these processes contribute to diseases' pathogenesis and clinical severity.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
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Humans
*Virus Diseases/complications/virology/immunology
*Thromboinflammation/virology/immunology
Animals
Platelet Activation
COVID-19
Inflammation
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
From Viral Infection to Malignancy: The Dual Threat of EBV and COVID-19 in Cancer Development.
Viruses, 17(9):.
This narrative review consolidates existing evidence about the interaction between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and SARS-CoV-2 in cancer development. EBV is a recognized oncogenic driver, whereas COVID-19 may heighten cancer risk by immunological dysregulation, persistent inflammation, and reactivation of latent viruses. We underscore molecular similarities (e.g., NF-ÎșB activation, T-cell exhaustion) and clinical ramifications for high-risk individuals, stressing the necessity for interdisciplinary research to alleviate dual viral risks. EBV, a well-known oncogenic virus, has been linked to numerous malignancies, including lymphomas, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and gastric cancer. Through the production of viral proteins that interfere with immune evasion, cellular signaling, and genomic integrity, it encourages malignant transformation and ultimately results in unchecked cell proliferation. Because of its capacity to induce tissue damage, immunological dysregulation, and chronic inflammation, COVID-19, which is brought on by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has become a possible carcinogen. The virus's influence on cellular pathways and its long-term effects on the immune system may raise the chance of malignancy, particularly in people with pre-existing vulnerabilities, even if direct correlations to cancer are still being investigated. When two viruses co-infect a host, the review highlights the possibility of synergistic effects that could hasten the development of cancer. It describes how overlapping mechanisms like inflammation, immune suppression, and viral reactivation may be used by a combined EBV and COVID-19 infection to exacerbate carcinogenic processes. Gaining an understanding of these relationships is essential for creating tailored treatment plans and enhancing cancer prevention in high-risk groups.
Additional Links: PMID-41012623
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012623,
year = {2025},
author = {Alsaadawe, M and Radman, BA and Hu, L and Long, J and Luo, Q and Tan, C and Amirat, HS and Alsaadawi, M and Lyu, X},
title = {From Viral Infection to Malignancy: The Dual Threat of EBV and COVID-19 in Cancer Development.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012623},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/virology/immunology ; *Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/complications/virology/immunology ; *Herpesvirus 4, Human/physiology/pathogenicity ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Neoplasms/virology/etiology/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {This narrative review consolidates existing evidence about the interaction between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and SARS-CoV-2 in cancer development. EBV is a recognized oncogenic driver, whereas COVID-19 may heighten cancer risk by immunological dysregulation, persistent inflammation, and reactivation of latent viruses. We underscore molecular similarities (e.g., NF-ÎșB activation, T-cell exhaustion) and clinical ramifications for high-risk individuals, stressing the necessity for interdisciplinary research to alleviate dual viral risks. EBV, a well-known oncogenic virus, has been linked to numerous malignancies, including lymphomas, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and gastric cancer. Through the production of viral proteins that interfere with immune evasion, cellular signaling, and genomic integrity, it encourages malignant transformation and ultimately results in unchecked cell proliferation. Because of its capacity to induce tissue damage, immunological dysregulation, and chronic inflammation, COVID-19, which is brought on by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has become a possible carcinogen. The virus's influence on cellular pathways and its long-term effects on the immune system may raise the chance of malignancy, particularly in people with pre-existing vulnerabilities, even if direct correlations to cancer are still being investigated. When two viruses co-infect a host, the review highlights the possibility of synergistic effects that could hasten the development of cancer. It describes how overlapping mechanisms like inflammation, immune suppression, and viral reactivation may be used by a combined EBV and COVID-19 infection to exacerbate carcinogenic processes. Gaining an understanding of these relationships is essential for creating tailored treatment plans and enhancing cancer prevention in high-risk groups.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/virology/immunology
*Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/complications/virology/immunology
*Herpesvirus 4, Human/physiology/pathogenicity
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Neoplasms/virology/etiology/immunology
Animals
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Epitranscriptomic Regulation of Hepatitis B Virus by RNA 5-Methylcytosine: Functions, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potential.
Viruses, 17(9):.
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major global health challenge, with over 296 million people chronically infected worldwide. Despite the availability of antiviral therapies, a functional cure is rarely achieved, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. RNA 5-methylcytosine (m[5]C) is a pivotal epitranscriptomic mark implicated in RNA stability, transport, and translation. Emerging evidence shows that m[5]C is conserved within HBV RNA and plays critical roles in the viral life cycle. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms governing m[5]C deposition and recognition, summarizes recent advances in m[5]C biology, and highlights the emerging role of epitranscriptomic m[5]C regulation in HBV infection. We discuss the identification of HBV-specific m[5]C sites, the functions of key regulatory enzymes, and their interplay in viral RNA stabilization and evasion of innate immune responses. Interplay between m[5]C and other RNA modifications-particularly N6-methyladenosine (m[6]A)-is examined alongside virus-specific m[5]C regulation in EV71, HIV, HCV, EBV, and SARS-CoV-2. Potential links between m[5]C dysregulation and HBV-induced hepatocarcinogenesis are outlined, and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the m[5]C machinery are highlighted. Together, these insights position the epitranscriptomic landscape as a promising avenue for innovative antiviral strategies.
Additional Links: PMID-41012587
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012587,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, X and Huang, Y and Zhang, X and Guan, W and Zhang, F and Hao, H},
title = {Epitranscriptomic Regulation of Hepatitis B Virus by RNA 5-Methylcytosine: Functions, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potential.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012587},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {2024AFB1065//Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province/ ; JXBS013//Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory Biosafety Key R&D Project/ ; E3ZFJX0101//Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory Research Startup Funding Project/ ; 2024YFC2309400//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; XDB0490000//Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Hepatitis B virus/genetics ; Humans ; *5-Methylcytosine/metabolism ; *RNA, Viral/genetics/metabolism ; Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Transcriptome ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Viral ; *Epigenesis, Genetic ; Hepatitis B/virology ; RNA Stability ; },
abstract = {Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major global health challenge, with over 296 million people chronically infected worldwide. Despite the availability of antiviral therapies, a functional cure is rarely achieved, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. RNA 5-methylcytosine (m[5]C) is a pivotal epitranscriptomic mark implicated in RNA stability, transport, and translation. Emerging evidence shows that m[5]C is conserved within HBV RNA and plays critical roles in the viral life cycle. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms governing m[5]C deposition and recognition, summarizes recent advances in m[5]C biology, and highlights the emerging role of epitranscriptomic m[5]C regulation in HBV infection. We discuss the identification of HBV-specific m[5]C sites, the functions of key regulatory enzymes, and their interplay in viral RNA stabilization and evasion of innate immune responses. Interplay between m[5]C and other RNA modifications-particularly N6-methyladenosine (m[6]A)-is examined alongside virus-specific m[5]C regulation in EV71, HIV, HCV, EBV, and SARS-CoV-2. Potential links between m[5]C dysregulation and HBV-induced hepatocarcinogenesis are outlined, and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the m[5]C machinery are highlighted. Together, these insights position the epitranscriptomic landscape as a promising avenue for innovative antiviral strategies.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Hepatitis B virus/genetics
Humans
*5-Methylcytosine/metabolism
*RNA, Viral/genetics/metabolism
Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Transcriptome
*Gene Expression Regulation, Viral
*Epigenesis, Genetic
Hepatitis B/virology
RNA Stability
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Etrog Citron (Citrus medica) as a Novel Source of Antiviral Agents: Overview of Its Bioactive Phytochemicals and Delivery Approaches.
Pharmaceutics, 17(9):.
The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the significant challenge of insufficient antiviral pharmacological options. Edible plants offer a promising avenue for developing novel antiviral drugs. Etrog citron (Citrus medica L.), which is a valuable edible and medicinal plant, contains various antiviral phytochemicals, mainly flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenes. However, the therapeutic application of these compounds remains limited by factors such as poor solubility, limited bioavailability, and unclear mechanisms of action. The aim of the present article is to offer a comprehensive analysis of the antiviral phytochemicals extracted from various parts of Citrus medica, emphasizing their mode of action and delivery strategies that may allow turning these compounds into new antiviral drugs.
Additional Links: PMID-41012509
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012509,
year = {2025},
author = {Dahan, A and Yarmolinsky, L and Nakonechny, F and Semenova, O and Khalfin, B and Fleisher-Berkovich, S and Ben-Shabat, S},
title = {Etrog Citron (Citrus medica) as a Novel Source of Antiviral Agents: Overview of Its Bioactive Phytochemicals and Delivery Approaches.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012509},
issn = {1999-4923},
abstract = {The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the significant challenge of insufficient antiviral pharmacological options. Edible plants offer a promising avenue for developing novel antiviral drugs. Etrog citron (Citrus medica L.), which is a valuable edible and medicinal plant, contains various antiviral phytochemicals, mainly flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenes. However, the therapeutic application of these compounds remains limited by factors such as poor solubility, limited bioavailability, and unclear mechanisms of action. The aim of the present article is to offer a comprehensive analysis of the antiviral phytochemicals extracted from various parts of Citrus medica, emphasizing their mode of action and delivery strategies that may allow turning these compounds into new antiviral drugs.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Novel Strategies for Developing Next-Generation Vaccines to Combat Infectious Viral Diseases.
Vaccines, 13(9):.
The development of viral vaccines faces persistent scientific and logistical challenges, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review critically examines emerging strategies to overcome key barriers in viral vaccine design and deployment. We focus on four major areas: (1) structure-guided antigen engineering to stabilize conformations; (2) the mRNA platform and its delivery system; (3) advanced adjuvant systems that enhance cellular and humoral immunity; and (4) approaches to mitigate immune imprinting and antigenic variability, such as chimeric antigens and glycan shielding. We also explore anti-idiotypic vaccination strategies and the limitations of current animal models in predicting human immune responses. In addition, to address vaccine hesitancy and inequitable access, we advocate for global collaboration in manufacturing, distribution, and public education to ensure inclusive immunization strategies. By integrating molecular insights with platform technologies, we aim to inform the rational design of future vaccines with improved efficacy and public acceptance.
Additional Links: PMID-41012182
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012182,
year = {2025},
author = {Yuan, F and Bluth, MH},
title = {Novel Strategies for Developing Next-Generation Vaccines to Combat Infectious Viral Diseases.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012182},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {2024-67012-42721//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {The development of viral vaccines faces persistent scientific and logistical challenges, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review critically examines emerging strategies to overcome key barriers in viral vaccine design and deployment. We focus on four major areas: (1) structure-guided antigen engineering to stabilize conformations; (2) the mRNA platform and its delivery system; (3) advanced adjuvant systems that enhance cellular and humoral immunity; and (4) approaches to mitigate immune imprinting and antigenic variability, such as chimeric antigens and glycan shielding. We also explore anti-idiotypic vaccination strategies and the limitations of current animal models in predicting human immune responses. In addition, to address vaccine hesitancy and inequitable access, we advocate for global collaboration in manufacturing, distribution, and public education to ensure inclusive immunization strategies. By integrating molecular insights with platform technologies, we aim to inform the rational design of future vaccines with improved efficacy and public acceptance.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Messenger RNA and Plasmid DNA Vaccines for the Treatment of Cancer.
Vaccines, 13(9):.
Immunotherapy is now an established therapy for nearly a third of patients with cancer. Most therapies, typically using cytokines or checkpoint blockade therapy, rely on global activation of immune effector cells. The ability of vaccines to activate specific populations of cells has led to a renewed interest in their ability to treat cancers, either alone or with other immune therapies or other conventional therapies. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a new interest in nucleic acid vaccines with the development of new technologies and the short manufacturing time for vaccine implementation. Nucleic acid-based cancer vaccines have been studied for decades, but have shown modest anti-tumor efficacy as monotherapies, as many of these vaccines encode for shared tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and must overcome immune tolerance. New developments, technologies, routes of delivery, and combination therapies have paved the way for new approaches and clinical trials involving nucleic acid vaccines for the treatment of cancer. Here we review mRNA and pDNA vaccines for the treatment of cancer, including similarities and differences in their mechanisms of action, an overview of these treatment modalities in preclinical and clinical studies, methods to improve these vaccine strategies, and exciting new combination approaches in development.
Additional Links: PMID-41012179
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012179,
year = {2025},
author = {Moseman, JE and Shim, D and Jeon, D and Rastogi, I and Schneider, KM and McNeel, DG},
title = {Messenger RNA and Plasmid DNA Vaccines for the Treatment of Cancer.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012179},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {5P30CA014520-25/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 5P50CA269011-03/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Immunotherapy is now an established therapy for nearly a third of patients with cancer. Most therapies, typically using cytokines or checkpoint blockade therapy, rely on global activation of immune effector cells. The ability of vaccines to activate specific populations of cells has led to a renewed interest in their ability to treat cancers, either alone or with other immune therapies or other conventional therapies. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a new interest in nucleic acid vaccines with the development of new technologies and the short manufacturing time for vaccine implementation. Nucleic acid-based cancer vaccines have been studied for decades, but have shown modest anti-tumor efficacy as monotherapies, as many of these vaccines encode for shared tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and must overcome immune tolerance. New developments, technologies, routes of delivery, and combination therapies have paved the way for new approaches and clinical trials involving nucleic acid vaccines for the treatment of cancer. Here we review mRNA and pDNA vaccines for the treatment of cancer, including similarities and differences in their mechanisms of action, an overview of these treatment modalities in preclinical and clinical studies, methods to improve these vaccine strategies, and exciting new combination approaches in development.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Strategies to Increase Vaccinations in Adult Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review.
Vaccines, 13(9):.
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Although vaccinations are a priority for patients with cancer, achieving high coverage remains challenging. Evidence on effective strategies in oncology settings is still limited. This systematic review aimed to identify interventions to improve vaccination uptake or reduce hesitancy among cancer patients.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, including studies published up to the end of 2023. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024511008).
RESULTS: Out of 10,927 non-duplicate records, 15 studies describing unique interventions were included. All studies were published between 2011 and 2022, primarily conducted in Europe/UK (40%) and in North America (40%). The most common study design was pre-post (60%), and 33.3% included a control group. Most interventions were multi-component (60%) and were classified into three main categories: educational materials/campaigns (46.7%), reminders (40%), and patient counselling (33.3%). Additional components included guideline development in two studies. Some studies also highlighted the importance of specific key figures, such as dedicated professionals, general practitioners, and pharmacists. Interventions mainly targeted patients (40%), with 33.3% addressing both healthcare professionals and patients and 26.7% professionals only. They most frequently concerned vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcal disease (26.7%), pneumococcal disease alone (26.7%), or Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) (26.7%). Vaccination uptake was the primary outcome in 86.7% of studies, with 66.7% reporting significant improvements.
CONCLUSIONS: This review identified a variety of strategies, with education, reminders, and counselling as key components. Multicomponent interventions and those involving both patients and providers were most promising. However, methodological limitations and limited generalizability highlighted the need for more rigorous research.
Additional Links: PMID-41012167
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012167,
year = {2025},
author = {Lo Moro, G and Golzio, F and Calabrese, SC and Scaioli, G and Basile, A and Siliquini, R and Bert, F},
title = {Strategies to Increase Vaccinations in Adult Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012167},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Although vaccinations are a priority for patients with cancer, achieving high coverage remains challenging. Evidence on effective strategies in oncology settings is still limited. This systematic review aimed to identify interventions to improve vaccination uptake or reduce hesitancy among cancer patients.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, including studies published up to the end of 2023. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024511008).
RESULTS: Out of 10,927 non-duplicate records, 15 studies describing unique interventions were included. All studies were published between 2011 and 2022, primarily conducted in Europe/UK (40%) and in North America (40%). The most common study design was pre-post (60%), and 33.3% included a control group. Most interventions were multi-component (60%) and were classified into three main categories: educational materials/campaigns (46.7%), reminders (40%), and patient counselling (33.3%). Additional components included guideline development in two studies. Some studies also highlighted the importance of specific key figures, such as dedicated professionals, general practitioners, and pharmacists. Interventions mainly targeted patients (40%), with 33.3% addressing both healthcare professionals and patients and 26.7% professionals only. They most frequently concerned vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcal disease (26.7%), pneumococcal disease alone (26.7%), or Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) (26.7%). Vaccination uptake was the primary outcome in 86.7% of studies, with 66.7% reporting significant improvements.
CONCLUSIONS: This review identified a variety of strategies, with education, reminders, and counselling as key components. Multicomponent interventions and those involving both patients and providers were most promising. However, methodological limitations and limited generalizability highlighted the need for more rigorous research.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Immunotherapy of Oncovirus-Induced Cancers: A Review on the Development and Efficacy of Targeted Vaccines.
Vaccines, 13(9):.
BACKGROUND: A number of viruses are oncogenic. These include the human papilloma virus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi sarcoma human herpes virus 2/human herpes virus 8 (KSHHV/HHV8), hepatitis B virus, (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), Merkel cell polyoma virus (McPyV), and the human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1). These viruses cause malignancies ranging from carcinomas, sarcomas, lymphomas, to leukemias. This review aims to study the effects and efficacy of vaccines against these viruses and the cancers they cause in their prevention and treatment.
METHODS: The literature in the past 30 years was searched employing Scopus and Google Scholar using the keywords "oncogenic viruses, HPV, EBV, KSHHV, HHV8, Polyoma virus, HTLV-1, COVID-19, carcinoma, sarcoma, lymphoma, leukemia, anti-virus vaccines".
RESULTS: Prophylactic vaccines against the HPV and HBV are highly effective in preventing and reducing the incidence of uterine cervical and hepatocellular carcinomas. Prophylactic vaccines against other oncogenic viruses have been less successful, though efficacious in some experimental animals. Therapeutic vaccines are still mostly under evaluation and development.
CONCLUSIONS: Identification of oncogenic viruses has rendered anti-viral vaccines conspicuous tools for preventing and treating cancers they cause. Many endeavors for the development of such vaccines have been met with limited success, apart from the very effective anti-HPV and anti-HBV vaccines in universal vaccination programs. With the development of new vaccine technologies, it is hoped that effective vaccines against other oncogenic viruses will be developed in the future.
Additional Links: PMID-41012117
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41012117,
year = {2025},
author = {Ng, CS},
title = {Immunotherapy of Oncovirus-Induced Cancers: A Review on the Development and Efficacy of Targeted Vaccines.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012117},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: A number of viruses are oncogenic. These include the human papilloma virus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi sarcoma human herpes virus 2/human herpes virus 8 (KSHHV/HHV8), hepatitis B virus, (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), Merkel cell polyoma virus (McPyV), and the human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1). These viruses cause malignancies ranging from carcinomas, sarcomas, lymphomas, to leukemias. This review aims to study the effects and efficacy of vaccines against these viruses and the cancers they cause in their prevention and treatment.
METHODS: The literature in the past 30 years was searched employing Scopus and Google Scholar using the keywords "oncogenic viruses, HPV, EBV, KSHHV, HHV8, Polyoma virus, HTLV-1, COVID-19, carcinoma, sarcoma, lymphoma, leukemia, anti-virus vaccines".
RESULTS: Prophylactic vaccines against the HPV and HBV are highly effective in preventing and reducing the incidence of uterine cervical and hepatocellular carcinomas. Prophylactic vaccines against other oncogenic viruses have been less successful, though efficacious in some experimental animals. Therapeutic vaccines are still mostly under evaluation and development.
CONCLUSIONS: Identification of oncogenic viruses has rendered anti-viral vaccines conspicuous tools for preventing and treating cancers they cause. Many endeavors for the development of such vaccines have been met with limited success, apart from the very effective anti-HPV and anti-HBV vaccines in universal vaccination programs. With the development of new vaccine technologies, it is hoped that effective vaccines against other oncogenic viruses will be developed in the future.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Influenza Virus: Global Health Impact, Strategies, Challenges, Role of Nanotechnolgy in Influenza Vaccine Development.
Vaccines, 13(9):.
Influenza is a serious and global health issue, and it is a major cause of morbidity, fatality, and economic loss every year. Seasonal vaccines exist but are not very effective due to strain mismatches, delays in production, and antigenic drift. This comprehensive overview discusses the current situation of influenza vaccination, including the numerous types of vaccines-inactivated, live attenuated, and recombinant vaccines-and their effectiveness, efficacy, and associated challenges. It highlights the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the trends of influenza vaccination and the level to which innovation should be practiced. In the future universal influenza vaccines will be developed that target conserved viral antigens to provide long-term protection to people. In the meantime, novel vaccine delivery platforms, such as mRNA technology, virus-like particle (VLP), and nanoparticle-based systems, and less cumbersome and invasive administration routes, as well as immune responses are also under development to increase access and production capacity. Collectively, these innovations have the potential to not only reduce the global influenza epidemic but also to change the way influenza is prevented and prepare the world for a pandemic.
Additional Links: PMID-41012096
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41012096,
year = {2025},
author = {Parvez, S and Pathrathota, A and Uppar, AL and Yadagiri, G and Mudavath, SL},
title = {Influenza Virus: Global Health Impact, Strategies, Challenges, Role of Nanotechnolgy in Influenza Vaccine Development.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012096},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {IIRP-2023- 3052//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; },
abstract = {Influenza is a serious and global health issue, and it is a major cause of morbidity, fatality, and economic loss every year. Seasonal vaccines exist but are not very effective due to strain mismatches, delays in production, and antigenic drift. This comprehensive overview discusses the current situation of influenza vaccination, including the numerous types of vaccines-inactivated, live attenuated, and recombinant vaccines-and their effectiveness, efficacy, and associated challenges. It highlights the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the trends of influenza vaccination and the level to which innovation should be practiced. In the future universal influenza vaccines will be developed that target conserved viral antigens to provide long-term protection to people. In the meantime, novel vaccine delivery platforms, such as mRNA technology, virus-like particle (VLP), and nanoparticle-based systems, and less cumbersome and invasive administration routes, as well as immune responses are also under development to increase access and production capacity. Collectively, these innovations have the potential to not only reduce the global influenza epidemic but also to change the way influenza is prevented and prepare the world for a pandemic.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
A Review of Insights on Vaccination Against Respiratory Viral Infections in Africa: Challenges, Efforts, Impacts, and Opportunities for the Future.
Vaccines, 13(9):.
Background: Respiratory viral infections such as influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are considered as major public health threats in Africa. Despite global advancements in vaccine development, persistent inequities in access, delivery infrastructure, and public trust limit the continent's capacity to control these diseases effectively. This review aimed at providing insights on challenges, efforts, impacts, and opportunities for the future related to vaccination against respiratory viral infections in Africa. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes the peer-reviewed literature and global health reports to examine vaccination efforts against respiratory viruses in Africa. The analysis focuses on disease burden, vaccine coverage, barriers to uptake, enabling factors, progress in local vaccine production, and strategies for integrating vaccines into national immunization programs (NIPs). Results: Respiratory vaccines have significantly reduced hospitalizations and mortality among high-risk groups in African countries. Nonetheless, key challenges, including limited cold chain capacity, vaccine hesitancy, donor-reliant supply chains, and under-resourced health systems, continue to undermine vaccine delivery. Successful interventions include community mobilization, use of mobile health technologies, and leveraging existing immunization platforms. Emerging initiatives in local vaccine manufacturing, including Rwanda's modular mRNA facility and Senegal's Institut Pasteur, signal a shift toward regional self-reliance. Conclusions: Maximizing the impact of respiratory vaccines in Africa requires a multifaceted strategy: integrating vaccines into NIPs, strengthening domestic production, expanding cold chain and digital infrastructure, and addressing sociocultural barriers through community-driven communication. These efforts are essential to achieving vaccine equity, health resilience, and pandemic preparedness across the continent.
Additional Links: PMID-41012094
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41012094,
year = {2025},
author = {Gasana, P and Gahamanyi, N and Nzitakera, A and Farnir, F and Desmecht, D and Mutesa, L},
title = {A Review of Insights on Vaccination Against Respiratory Viral Infections in Africa: Challenges, Efforts, Impacts, and Opportunities for the Future.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012094},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {ARES-COOP-CONV-22-099//University of Rwanda-Academie de Recherche et d'Enseignement Superieur UR-ARES/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Respiratory viral infections such as influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are considered as major public health threats in Africa. Despite global advancements in vaccine development, persistent inequities in access, delivery infrastructure, and public trust limit the continent's capacity to control these diseases effectively. This review aimed at providing insights on challenges, efforts, impacts, and opportunities for the future related to vaccination against respiratory viral infections in Africa. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes the peer-reviewed literature and global health reports to examine vaccination efforts against respiratory viruses in Africa. The analysis focuses on disease burden, vaccine coverage, barriers to uptake, enabling factors, progress in local vaccine production, and strategies for integrating vaccines into national immunization programs (NIPs). Results: Respiratory vaccines have significantly reduced hospitalizations and mortality among high-risk groups in African countries. Nonetheless, key challenges, including limited cold chain capacity, vaccine hesitancy, donor-reliant supply chains, and under-resourced health systems, continue to undermine vaccine delivery. Successful interventions include community mobilization, use of mobile health technologies, and leveraging existing immunization platforms. Emerging initiatives in local vaccine manufacturing, including Rwanda's modular mRNA facility and Senegal's Institut Pasteur, signal a shift toward regional self-reliance. Conclusions: Maximizing the impact of respiratory vaccines in Africa requires a multifaceted strategy: integrating vaccines into NIPs, strengthening domestic production, expanding cold chain and digital infrastructure, and addressing sociocultural barriers through community-driven communication. These efforts are essential to achieving vaccine equity, health resilience, and pandemic preparedness across the continent.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Global Research Trends on Major Pathogenic Enteric Viruses (1990-2024): A Bibliometric Analysis of Epidemiology, Transmission, and Public Health Impact.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 14(9):.
Pathogenic enteric viruses are a leading cause of gastroenteritis-related mortality worldwide. However, the architecture of this research field remains poorly quantified. This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of 35 years of global scientific output on major enteric viruses, such as rotavirus, norovirus, astrovirus, sapovirus, and non-polio enteroviruses, to map trends, methodological developments, and geographic disparities. We conducted a systematic search of PubMed and Scopus (1990-2024), identifying 10,017 records. After deduplication and eligibility screening, a final corpus of 8320 publications was analyzed using Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny 5.0) in R (version 4.3.0) and VOSviewer (Version 1.6.20). We found that scientific production grew steadily (CAGR = 5.84%), reaching its peak in 2021. The field is characterized by profound thematic and geographic disparity: rotavirus dominated the literature (56.3% of publications), followed by norovirus (30.8%), while other viruses were severely underrepresented (<9% each). Geographically, output was highly concentrated, with the top five countries (the USA, China, Japan, India, and Brazil) producing 92.4% of the publications. In contrast, high-burden regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, contributed only 7.6%. Genomic sequencing gained prominence, being cited in over 26.2% of publications from 2020 to 2024, reflecting a methodological shift accelerated by the application of wastewater-based epidemiology during the COVID-19 pandemic. In conclusion, while genomic tools and environmental monitoring are transforming enteric virus research, its progress is hampered by deep and persistent inequalities. These include a narrow focus on rotavirus and a significant disparity between regions with high disease burdens and those with high research outputs. Closing this gap requires targeted investments in equitable collaboration, local genomic capacity, and integrated public health interventions combining vaccination, WASH, and One Health strategies.
Additional Links: PMID-41011838
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41011838,
year = {2025},
author = {Alotaibi, M and Al-Khalaifah, H and Bouhoudan, A},
title = {Global Research Trends on Major Pathogenic Enteric Viruses (1990-2024): A Bibliometric Analysis of Epidemiology, Transmission, and Public Health Impact.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011838},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; Bibliometrics ; Public Health ; Global Health ; *Gastroenteritis/virology/epidemiology ; *Enterovirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/virology ; Enterovirus/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {Pathogenic enteric viruses are a leading cause of gastroenteritis-related mortality worldwide. However, the architecture of this research field remains poorly quantified. This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of 35 years of global scientific output on major enteric viruses, such as rotavirus, norovirus, astrovirus, sapovirus, and non-polio enteroviruses, to map trends, methodological developments, and geographic disparities. We conducted a systematic search of PubMed and Scopus (1990-2024), identifying 10,017 records. After deduplication and eligibility screening, a final corpus of 8320 publications was analyzed using Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny 5.0) in R (version 4.3.0) and VOSviewer (Version 1.6.20). We found that scientific production grew steadily (CAGR = 5.84%), reaching its peak in 2021. The field is characterized by profound thematic and geographic disparity: rotavirus dominated the literature (56.3% of publications), followed by norovirus (30.8%), while other viruses were severely underrepresented (<9% each). Geographically, output was highly concentrated, with the top five countries (the USA, China, Japan, India, and Brazil) producing 92.4% of the publications. In contrast, high-burden regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, contributed only 7.6%. Genomic sequencing gained prominence, being cited in over 26.2% of publications from 2020 to 2024, reflecting a methodological shift accelerated by the application of wastewater-based epidemiology during the COVID-19 pandemic. In conclusion, while genomic tools and environmental monitoring are transforming enteric virus research, its progress is hampered by deep and persistent inequalities. These include a narrow focus on rotavirus and a significant disparity between regions with high disease burdens and those with high research outputs. Closing this gap requires targeted investments in equitable collaboration, local genomic capacity, and integrated public health interventions combining vaccination, WASH, and One Health strategies.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
Bibliometrics
Public Health
Global Health
*Gastroenteritis/virology/epidemiology
*Enterovirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/virology
Enterovirus/pathogenicity
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
A Flurry of Infectious Disease Modeling Tools During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Considerations for Future Selection.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 14(9):.
Infectious disease modeling surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, with numerous epidemiological models developed to shape both research and public policy. The abundance of available models-developed with diverse characteristics and modeling objectives-gave users plenty of model selection options; however, little guidance was available for selecting an appropriate epidemiological model. In recognition of this need for guidance, this work describes the development of a decision framework for appropriate model selection. To serve as both an example and a starting point for model users, we walk through the creation and use of a decision framework to evaluate key considerations for selecting a forward-looking epidemiological model intended to inform policy. Our assessment includes 43 models and modeling platforms that have been or could be used to model infectious disease. The framework developed for this assessment focused on assessing each model's strengths and weaknesses in terms of flexibility and customization, the ability to implement pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical mitigations, and visualization capabilities. By providing a decision framework and demonstrating its use, we aim to support better decision-making and stronger trust between public health institutions and the constituents they serve.
Additional Links: PMID-41011777
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Citation:
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@article {pmid41011777,
year = {2025},
author = {Corbin, J and Cerles, A and Tebon, P and Haverkate, M and Campbell, S and Hurst, J and Woodul, R and Hunzeker, J and Schwartz-Watjen, K and Owens, A and Wu, A},
title = {A Flurry of Infectious Disease Modeling Tools During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Considerations for Future Selection.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011777},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {prime contract HDTRA1-19-D-0007//Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Epidemiological Models ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Infectious disease modeling surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, with numerous epidemiological models developed to shape both research and public policy. The abundance of available models-developed with diverse characteristics and modeling objectives-gave users plenty of model selection options; however, little guidance was available for selecting an appropriate epidemiological model. In recognition of this need for guidance, this work describes the development of a decision framework for appropriate model selection. To serve as both an example and a starting point for model users, we walk through the creation and use of a decision framework to evaluate key considerations for selecting a forward-looking epidemiological model intended to inform policy. Our assessment includes 43 models and modeling platforms that have been or could be used to model infectious disease. The framework developed for this assessment focused on assessing each model's strengths and weaknesses in terms of flexibility and customization, the ability to implement pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical mitigations, and visualization capabilities. By providing a decision framework and demonstrating its use, we aim to support better decision-making and stronger trust between public health institutions and the constituents they serve.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Epidemiological Models
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Role of Lipidomics in Respiratory Tract Infections: A Systematic Review of Emerging Evidence.
Microorganisms, 13(9):.
Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) remain a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, yet accurate pathogen identification and risk stratification continue to pose clinical challenges. Lipidomics-the comprehensive analysis of lipid species within biological systems-has emerged as a promising tool to unravel host-pathogen interactions and reveal novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from nine original studies applying mass spectrometry-based lipidomic profiling in human LRTIs, including community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Across diverse study designs, sample types, and analytical platforms, consistent alterations in lipid metabolism were observed. Perturbations in phospholipid classes, particularly phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs), were frequently associated with disease severity and immune activation. The ratios of PC to LPC and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) to lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) emerged as markers of inflammatory remodeling. Sphingolipids-including sphingomyelins (SMs) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-were identified as key modulators of monocyte and neutrophil activation. Fatty acid-derived lipid mediators such as oxylipins (e.g., 12,13-epoxyoctadecenoic acid and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid) and acylcarnitines reflected pathogen-specific immune responses and mitochondrial dysfunction. Several lipid-based classifiers demonstrated superior diagnostic and prognostic performance compared to conventional clinical scores, including the CURB-65 and pneumonia severity index. However, significant heterogeneity in experimental design, lipid identification workflows, and reporting standards limits inter-study comparability. While preliminary findings support the integration of lipidomics into infectious disease research, larger multi-omic and longitudinal studies are required. This review provides the first comprehensive synthesis of lipidomic alterations in human LRTIs and highlights their emerging translational relevance.
Additional Links: PMID-41011521
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41011521,
year = {2025},
author = {Georgakopoulou, VE and Dodos, K and Pitiriga, VC},
title = {Role of Lipidomics in Respiratory Tract Infections: A Systematic Review of Emerging Evidence.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011521},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) remain a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, yet accurate pathogen identification and risk stratification continue to pose clinical challenges. Lipidomics-the comprehensive analysis of lipid species within biological systems-has emerged as a promising tool to unravel host-pathogen interactions and reveal novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from nine original studies applying mass spectrometry-based lipidomic profiling in human LRTIs, including community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Across diverse study designs, sample types, and analytical platforms, consistent alterations in lipid metabolism were observed. Perturbations in phospholipid classes, particularly phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs), were frequently associated with disease severity and immune activation. The ratios of PC to LPC and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) to lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) emerged as markers of inflammatory remodeling. Sphingolipids-including sphingomyelins (SMs) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-were identified as key modulators of monocyte and neutrophil activation. Fatty acid-derived lipid mediators such as oxylipins (e.g., 12,13-epoxyoctadecenoic acid and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid) and acylcarnitines reflected pathogen-specific immune responses and mitochondrial dysfunction. Several lipid-based classifiers demonstrated superior diagnostic and prognostic performance compared to conventional clinical scores, including the CURB-65 and pneumonia severity index. However, significant heterogeneity in experimental design, lipid identification workflows, and reporting standards limits inter-study comparability. While preliminary findings support the integration of lipidomics into infectious disease research, larger multi-omic and longitudinal studies are required. This review provides the first comprehensive synthesis of lipidomic alterations in human LRTIs and highlights their emerging translational relevance.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) Expression and Activation in COVID-19 and Long COVID: From SARS-CoV-2 Escape Mechanisms to Emerging PRR-Targeted Immunotherapies.
Microorganisms, 13(9):.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which play a vital role in triggering innate immune responses such as the production of type I and III interferons (IFNs). While modest PRR activation helps to defend against SARS-CoV-2, excessive or sustained activation can cause harmful inflammation and contribute to severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Altered expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are among the most important members of the PRR family members, particularly TLRs 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9, has been strongly linked to COVID-19 severity. Furthermore, retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), collectively known as RLRs (RIG-I-like receptors), act as sensors that detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The expression of these receptors, as well as that of different DNA sensors, varies in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Changes in PRR expression, particularly that of TLRs, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), and the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), have also been shown to play a role in the development and persistence of long COVID (LC). However, SARS-CoV-2 has evolved strategies to evade PRR recognition and subsequent signaling pathway activation, contributing to the IFN response dysregulation observed in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. Nevertheless, PRR agonists and antagonists remain promising therapeutic targets for SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review aims to describe the PRRs involved in recognizing SARS-CoV-2, explore their expression during SARS-CoV-2 infection, and examine their role in determining the severity of both COVID-19 and long-term manifestations of the disease. It also describes the strategies developed by SARS-CoV-2 to evade PRR recognition and activation. Moreover, given the considerable interest in modulating PRR activity as a novel immunotherapy approach, this review will provide a description of PRR agonists and antagonists that have been investigated as antiviral strategies against SARS-CoV-2. This review aims to explore the complex interplay between PRRs and SARS-CoV-2 in depth, considering its implications for prognostic biomarkers, targeted therapeutic strategies and the mechanistic understanding of long LC. Additionally, it outlines future perspectives that could help to address knowledge gaps in PRR-mediated responses during SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Additional Links: PMID-41011507
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41011507,
year = {2025},
author = {Maddaloni, L and Bugani, G and Fracella, M and Bitossi, C and D'Auria, A and Aloisi, F and Azri, A and Santinelli, L and Ben M'Hadheb, M and Pierangeli, A and Frasca, F and Scagnolari, C},
title = {Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) Expression and Activation in COVID-19 and Long COVID: From SARS-CoV-2 Escape Mechanisms to Emerging PRR-Targeted Immunotherapies.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011507},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {RM124190A260C1F0//Sapienza University of Rome/ ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which play a vital role in triggering innate immune responses such as the production of type I and III interferons (IFNs). While modest PRR activation helps to defend against SARS-CoV-2, excessive or sustained activation can cause harmful inflammation and contribute to severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Altered expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are among the most important members of the PRR family members, particularly TLRs 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9, has been strongly linked to COVID-19 severity. Furthermore, retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), collectively known as RLRs (RIG-I-like receptors), act as sensors that detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The expression of these receptors, as well as that of different DNA sensors, varies in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Changes in PRR expression, particularly that of TLRs, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), and the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), have also been shown to play a role in the development and persistence of long COVID (LC). However, SARS-CoV-2 has evolved strategies to evade PRR recognition and subsequent signaling pathway activation, contributing to the IFN response dysregulation observed in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. Nevertheless, PRR agonists and antagonists remain promising therapeutic targets for SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review aims to describe the PRRs involved in recognizing SARS-CoV-2, explore their expression during SARS-CoV-2 infection, and examine their role in determining the severity of both COVID-19 and long-term manifestations of the disease. It also describes the strategies developed by SARS-CoV-2 to evade PRR recognition and activation. Moreover, given the considerable interest in modulating PRR activity as a novel immunotherapy approach, this review will provide a description of PRR agonists and antagonists that have been investigated as antiviral strategies against SARS-CoV-2. This review aims to explore the complex interplay between PRRs and SARS-CoV-2 in depth, considering its implications for prognostic biomarkers, targeted therapeutic strategies and the mechanistic understanding of long LC. Additionally, it outlines future perspectives that could help to address knowledge gaps in PRR-mediated responses during SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Autoimmune Skin Diseases in the Era of COVID-19: Pathophysiological Insights and Clinical Implications.
Microorganisms, 13(9):.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted intricate associations between SARS-CoV-2 infection and autoimmune skin diseases (ASDs). This review examines the bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and ASDs including hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, autoimmune bullous diseases, cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, and lichen planus. Current evidence indicates that SARS-CoV-2 may precipitate or worsen ASDs via mechanisms such as molecular mimicry, dysregulated cytokine signaling, and enhanced Th1/Th17 immune responses, leading to loss of self-tolerance and autoantibody production. Epidemiological studies have identified increased incidence and flares of psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and other ASDs following both COVID-19 infection and vaccination, with mRNA vaccines associated with a higher risk of flare in hidradenitis suppurativa compared with non-mRNA vaccines. Notably, severe COVID-19 is associated with a greater risk of new-onset autoimmune disease, and patients with pre-existing inflammatory skin conditions may have increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection but experience less severe COVID-19 courses. These findings underscore the need for ongoing surveillance and mechanistic studies to clarify the immunopathogenic links between SARS-CoV-2 and ASDs and inform management strategies for affected patients in the context of both infection and vaccination.
Additional Links: PMID-41011460
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41011460,
year = {2025},
author = {Liakou, AI and Routsi, E and Plisioti, K and Tziona, E and Koumaki, D and Kalamata, M and Bompou, EK and Sokou, R and Ioannou, P and Bonovas, S and Samonis, G and Tsantes, AG and Stratigos, A},
title = {Autoimmune Skin Diseases in the Era of COVID-19: Pathophysiological Insights and Clinical Implications.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011460},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted intricate associations between SARS-CoV-2 infection and autoimmune skin diseases (ASDs). This review examines the bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and ASDs including hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, autoimmune bullous diseases, cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, and lichen planus. Current evidence indicates that SARS-CoV-2 may precipitate or worsen ASDs via mechanisms such as molecular mimicry, dysregulated cytokine signaling, and enhanced Th1/Th17 immune responses, leading to loss of self-tolerance and autoantibody production. Epidemiological studies have identified increased incidence and flares of psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and other ASDs following both COVID-19 infection and vaccination, with mRNA vaccines associated with a higher risk of flare in hidradenitis suppurativa compared with non-mRNA vaccines. Notably, severe COVID-19 is associated with a greater risk of new-onset autoimmune disease, and patients with pre-existing inflammatory skin conditions may have increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection but experience less severe COVID-19 courses. These findings underscore the need for ongoing surveillance and mechanistic studies to clarify the immunopathogenic links between SARS-CoV-2 and ASDs and inform management strategies for affected patients in the context of both infection and vaccination.},
}
RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27
Pyroptosis in Respiratory Virus Infections: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms, Pathophysiology, and Potential Therapeutic Interventions.
Microorganisms, 13(9):.
Pyroptosis is a mode of inflammatory cell death, characterized by cell membrane rupture and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Pyroptosis is a critical part of the innate immune response and acts as a defense mechanism against different types of pathogens, including viruses. Several respiratory viruses, including influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus, and SARS-CoV-2, have been shown to trigger pyroptosis through distinct mechanisms. While pyroptosis is beneficial to the host by controlling virus replication and eliminating infected cells, the exaggerated induction of pyroptosis can be harmful and cause significant tissue damage, such as that to the lung tissue during infection with respiratory viruses. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms and the role pyroptosis plays during respiratory virus infections could lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to reduce the morbidity caused by these infections. In this review, we discuss the recent knowledge obtained on the pathophysiological role of pyroptosis during different respiratory viral infections as well as some experimental approaches to regulating its detrimental effects to the host.
Additional Links: PMID-41011440
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid41011440,
year = {2025},
author = {Lin, R and Porto, BN},
title = {Pyroptosis in Respiratory Virus Infections: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms, Pathophysiology, and Potential Therapeutic Interventions.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011440},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {324636//University of Manitoba/ ; },
abstract = {Pyroptosis is a mode of inflammatory cell death, characterized by cell membrane rupture and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Pyroptosis is a critical part of the innate immune response and acts as a defense mechanism against different types of pathogens, including viruses. Several respiratory viruses, including influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus, and SARS-CoV-2, have been shown to trigger pyroptosis through distinct mechanisms. While pyroptosis is beneficial to the host by controlling virus replication and eliminating infected cells, the exaggerated induction of pyroptosis can be harmful and cause significant tissue damage, such as that to the lung tissue during infection with respiratory viruses. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms and the role pyroptosis plays during respiratory virus infections could lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to reduce the morbidity caused by these infections. In this review, we discuss the recent knowledge obtained on the pathophysiological role of pyroptosis during different respiratory viral infections as well as some experimental approaches to regulating its detrimental effects to the host.},
}
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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.
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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.
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