@article {pmid40386870,
year = {2024},
author = {Milevska Kostova, N and Atanasova, S and Dimkovski, V and Stevanovski, G and Stæhr Johansen, A and Winkelmann, J and Rechel, B},
title = {North Macedonia: Health System Review.},
journal = {Health systems in transition},
volume = {26},
number = {6},
pages = {1-164},
pmid = {40386870},
issn = {1817-6127},
mesh = {Humans ; Republic of North Macedonia/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Health Care Reform/organization & administration ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration/economics ; Health Services Accessibility/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Expenditures ; Healthcare Financing ; Universal Health Insurance ; },
abstract = {This analysis of North Macedonia's health system reviews developments in its organization and governance, financing, provision of services, health reforms and health system performance. Life expectancy improved prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but remains far below the EU average, and the country still struggles with comparatively high levels of morbidity and mor¬tality. The social health insurance system covers almost the entire population and progress has been achieved in providing access to publicly covered essential health services. However, challenges remain for patients in access¬ing health services and in financial protection. Geographical accessibility of services varies, with better access in the capital and major cities compared to smaller towns and rural areas. In terms of health financing, the health system offers universal population coverage for a wide range of benefits and services, which are free at the point of delivery or require only minimal co-payments to prevent overuse. Yet the share of private spending on health as a percentage of current health expenditure is high, which undermines the achievement of key health system goals, such as financial protection, equity and efficiency. The health workforce has been a focus of health reforms and efforts are underway to strengthen education and training to improve the skill mix and competences of the health workforce to respond to new challenges and an ageing population. The ratio of physicians per population has increased markedly in recent years, but remains below the EU average. The priorities for the country in the National Health Strategy 2021-2030 are restructuring the hospital system, continuing the country's primary care reform, and improving quality of care while increasing the efficiency of resource use. Access to medicines has improved, but further efforts are needed to ensure access to innovative medicines and treatments. Overall, the Macedonian health system has made important progress, especially in terms of digitalization of health care and access to e-services and telemedicine, but unmet needs remain an issue. The main outstanding challenges include increasing the responsiveness of the health system to population needs; redistributing resources and activities from hospitals to primary care; ensuring access to medicines; and safeguarding the financial sustainability of the health system.},
}

Humans
Republic of North Macedonia/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Health Care Reform/organization & administration
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration/economics
Health Services Accessibility/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
Health Expenditures
Healthcare Financing
Universal Health Insurance

@article {pmid40386630,
year = {2025},
author = {Poddar, A and Rao, SR},
title = {Innovation landscape in nanobiosensors for COVID-19 detection and future implications for a resilient Global Health Security.},
journal = {3 Biotech},
volume = {15},
number = {6},
pages = {170},
pmid = {40386630},
issn = {2190-572X},
abstract = {This review presents a comprehensive analysis of nanobiosensors (NBSs) advancements for COVID-19 detection, highlighting their repurposing potential to enhance global health security against emerging threats. It outlines the use of various nanomaterials like gold and magnetic nanoparticles in developing NBSs for detecting SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing their adaptability and rapid detection capabilities. Gold nanoparticles are highlighted for their superior surface chemistries and stability, making them ideal for label-free COVID-19 detection and other diagnostic applications. Magnetic nanoparticles, particularly superparamagnetic iron oxides, offer alternative detection mechanisms based on magnetism, providing high sensitivity and reliability in pathogen detection. The document also discusses nonmetallic nanomaterials, such as single-walled carbon nanotubes and selenium nanoparticles, which have been used to develop optical and electrochemical NBSs for COVID-19 detection. Breathalyzers are recognized for their noninvasive, rapid detection of volatile organic compounds specific to COVID-19. Such advancements in NBSs have significantly contributed to global health security by providing reliable, portable, and affordable diagnostic solutions, especially in resource-limited settings. However, despite technological advancements, commercialization and market adoption challenges persist, necessitating improvements in manufacturing scalability, cost reduction, and clinical validation. The document emphasizes the need for transparent and efficient regulatory strategies to address concerns related to nanomaterial toxicity, health effects, and environmental impact during the R&D phase. While presenting a comprehensive framework for successful research to market translation, this review highlights the need for cross-sectoral collaboration to tailor country-specific nanotechnology roadmaps for optimized resource allocation, navigating diverse regulations, and addressing unique societal needs.},
}

@article {pmid40386461,
year = {2025},
author = {Nain, A and Bohra, NS and Singh, A and Verma, R and Kumar, R and Kumar, R},
title = {Mapping the landscape: A bibliometric analysis of AI and teacher collaboration in educational research.},
journal = {F1000Research},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {201},
pmid = {40386461},
issn = {2046-1402},
mesh = {*Bibliometrics ; Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Cooperative Behavior ; COVID-19 ; *Research ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study intends to investigate the relationship between artificial intelligence and teachers' collaboration in educational research in response to the growing use of technologies and the current status of the field.

METHODS: A total of 62 publications were looked at through a systematic review that included data mining, analytics, and bibliometric methods.

RESULT: The study shows a steady increase in the field of artificial intelligence and teacher collaboration in educational research, especially in the last few years with the involvement of the USA, China, and India. Education and information technology are the main contributors to this field of study, followed by an international review of open and distance learning research. The Scopus database was chosen for this study because of its extensive coverage of high-quality, peer-reviewed literature and robust indexing system, making it a dependable source for conducting bibliometric analyses. Scopus offers substantial information, citations tracking, and multidisciplinary coverage, which are critical for spotting publication trends, significant articles, major themes, and keywords in the area. The findings show that education and information technology make the most significant contributions to this sector, followed by international studies on open and distance learning.

CONCLUSIONS: Over a three-year period, the average citation value is 12.44%. The education system, learning, e-learning, sustainability, COVID-19 issues, team challenges, organizational conflicts, and digital transformation are just a few of the topics it significantly contributes to. The study acknowledges its limitations and considers potential avenues for additional research. The results also emphasize important gaps in the literature, highlighting the necessity for more research. This information can help develop strategic approaches to address issues and take advantage of opportunities relating to artificial intelligence and teacher collaboration in higher education and research. The study's ultimate goal is to offer guidance for tactics that promote teachers' cooperation in educational research and the development of artificial intelligence.},
}

*Bibliometrics
Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Cooperative Behavior
COVID-19
*Research

@article {pmid40385980,
year = {2025},
author = {Sklienka, P and Burša, F and Frelich, M and Máca, J and Romanová, T and Vodička, V and Straková, H and Bílená, M and Jor, O and Neiser, J and Tomášková, H},
title = {Lessons Learned From Awake ECMO Approach in Covid-19-Related Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome - a Scoping Review.},
journal = {Therapeutics and clinical risk management},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {655-668},
pmid = {40385980},
issn = {1176-6336},
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, specific COVID-19-related conditions renewed interest in the full-awake venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation ([fa] V-V ECMO) approach, in which ECMO is applied to awake, cooperative, and non-intubated patients. This scoping review aims to provide a descriptive overview of [fa] V-V ECMO in patients with COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (CARDS). We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases using the keywords "awake ECMO" or "spontaneous breathing AND ECMO", combined with "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2" or "coronavirus", utilizing the Boolean operator "AND". The search included papers published from November 1, 2019, to December 31, 2024. Sixty-four papers were assessed for eligibility at the abstract level, and fourteen articles (seven small-sample cohort studies and seven case reports) comprising 95 patients were included in the final analysis. The most frequent reasons for preferring [fa] V-V ECMO over mechanical ventilation were barotrauma and patient refusal of intubation and mechanical ventilation. The [fa] V-V ECMO strategy was successful (ie, patients not intubated, disconnected from ECMO, and discharged from the hospital) in 36.4% of cases (cohort studies only). The incidence of defined severe adverse events (bleeding, thrombosis, cannula malposition, delirium, and progression of barotrauma) was considered low. The mortality rate for CARDS patients treated with [fa] V-V ECMO (including only patients from cohort studies) reached 33.0%, notably lower than the 48% reported for CARDS patients treated with V-V ECMO in the ELSO registry. Patients who were intubated due to worsening respiratory failure during [fa] V-V ECMO had significantly higher mortality. Infectious complications, sepsis, and multiorgan failure were the most frequent causes of death. However, significant heterogeneity in the definitions and reporting of management, ECMO-related complications, and outcomes was observed across the papers. Despite the heterogeneity of the data, [fa] V-V ECMO in CARDS patients can be considered a safe approach associated with a lower mortality rate than that reported in the overall V-V ECMO CARDS population.},
}

@article {pmid40385903,
year = {2025},
author = {Saran, E and Brenna, CT and Brar, A and Lee, J and Thomas, D and Huszti, E and Sharma, S and Ladha, KS},
title = {Academic Output of Anesthesiology Departments in Canada From 2014 to 2023: A Bibliometric Analysis Study.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82452},
pmid = {40385903},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Anesthesia research is essential for advancing clinical practice and patient care. The purpose of this study was to analyze research productivity in Canadian anesthesiology departments from 2014 to 2023, focusing on trends in publication volume, methodology, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A bibliometric analysis was conducted following a pre-registered protocol to identify articles in the PubMed database, which were published between 2014 and 2023 (inclusive) with corresponding authors from Canadian anesthesiology departments. Data extracted for each article included the year of publication, journal, and study design. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to compare trends, while annual publication rates were assessed with linear regression. An interaction term captured differences between pre-pandemic (2014-2020) and post-pandemic (2021-2023) periods. A total of 3,490 articles met the inclusion criteria. From 2014 to 2020 (pre-pandemic period), publication volume increased significantly by 28.7 studies/year (95% CI: 19.2-38.2, p < 0.001). In contrast, 2021-2023 (post-pandemic period) showed a non-significant decline of 13.0 studies/year (95% CI: -48.6-22.6, p = 0.405). Pre-pandemic trends showed significant growth in reviews, case-control/cohort studies, and surveys, while publication rates declined across most categories after 2020. Our findings illustrate an increase in research productivity among Canadian anesthesiology departments from 2014 to 2020, followed by a plateau in publication volume after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This stagnation highlights a critical area for future exploration, including examining how pandemic-related factors, such as shifts in clinical priorities, resource allocation, and adoption of telemedicine in pre-operative clinics, have influenced research productivity. As the field of anesthesiology adapts to post-pandemic realities, ongoing bibliometric studies will be essential to monitor these trends and guide the trajectory of Canadian anesthesia research amid emerging clinical challenges and evolving academic priorities.},
}

@article {pmid40385745,
year = {2025},
author = {Puia, D and Ivanuta, M and Pricop, C},
title = {A Bibliometric Analysis of COVID-19 Publications Between January 2019 and February 2025 by Romanian Authors.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82339},
pmid = {40385745},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020, had profound global consequences, including significant mortality, economic disruption, and strain on healthcare systems. Romania was also severely affected, with Suceava County being dubbed the "Romanian Lombardy" due to its high infection rates. In response, Romanian researchers actively contributed to scientific literature on COVID-19, producing numerous publications addressing epidemiology, public health policies, and medical treatments. This study aims to analyze Romanian scientific contributions related to COVID-19 using bibliometric methods. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using Web of Science, focusing on publications from Romanian universities, hospitals, and medical organizations. Articles were selected based on relevance to medicine, while non-research publications such as editorials and book reviews were excluded. The study employed VOSviewer (available at https://www.vosviewer.com/) for co-authorship and keyword analysis, alongside CiteSpace (available at https://citespace.podia.com/) for citation burst analysis. Between January 2019 and March 2025, 4,720 COVID-19-related articles with at least one Romanian author were indexed in Web of Science. After applying the inclusion criteria, 336 articles remained. The most productive authors were from Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, and the University of Oradea. Most studies were published in MDPI journals, with predominant research areas including internal medicine, pharmacology, and experimental medicine. Keyword analysis highlighted major research themes such as COVID-19 impact, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and pandemic response. Romanian research significantly influenced public health policies, guiding pandemic management strategies. The crisis accelerated digital healthcare adoption, including telemedicine services. Biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were identified as predictors of COVID-19 severity. Additionally, the pandemic had severe psychological and social consequences, particularly among vulnerable populations. This bibliometric analysis underscores the substantial role of Romanian researchers in the global fight against COVID-19 and the lasting impact of their contributions. Understanding Romania's scientific contribution to COVID-19 literature helps assess the country's research impact, identify strengths in key areas, and highlight opportunities for international collaboration in pandemic-related studies.},
}

@article {pmid40385588,
year = {2025},
author = {Ranque, B and Cogan, E},
title = {Internal medicine at the crossroads of long COVID diagnosis and management.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1521472},
pmid = {40385588},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {The lack of specificity in its definition is a major obstacle to both explanatory and therapeutic research in long COVID. It brings together, on the one hand, patients with severe COVID-19 who suffer the classic complications of prolonged hospitalization and decompensation of comorbidities and, on the other hand, patients with non-severe acute COVID-19 who report multiple symptoms that cannot be fully explained by a biomechanical model. Indeed, despite numerous studies, it remains unclear how persistent viral infection, immunological or coagulation disturbances may contribute mechanistically to long COVID. Nevertheless, internal medicine should be in good place to manage these patients. Indeed, the diversity of symptoms may evoke a broad spectrum of differential diagnoses that are familiar to internists. Their experience in the exploration of unexplained symptoms is also valuable. It can reduce the need for multiple consultations with specialists and unnecessary laboratory or imaging tests. However, long COVID diagnosis cannot be limited to the exclusion of all other conditions one by one. An open and non-dualistic approach is required to identify other mechanisms that may explain the symptoms. Based on their clinical experience, most French internists who responded to an opinion survey consider that long COVID corresponds most closely to a functional somatic disorder (FSD) and seek the help of specialists in mental health care to assist in the management of the patients in a multi-disciplinary approach. However, as with other FSDs, patients with long COVID are usually reluctant to be managed by mental health care specialists, given the very physical nature of their presentation. Unfortunately, most physicians are in turn reluctant to take care of them, due to poor knowledge about FSD, leading to management failure. Alternatively, a comprehensive multidisciplinary care orchestrated by an experienced internist is generally well-accepted. It includes providing rational cognitive explanations for the symptoms and support for behavioral changes tailored to the patient. While waiting for hypothetical randomized controlled trials assessing drugs with positive results, such a holistic approach has been successfully applied in many individuals with severe long COVID. However, its generalization would require a much broader training for FSD of all health care providers.},
}

@article {pmid40384881,
year = {2025},
author = {Oehler, JB and Burns, K and Warner, J and Schmitz, U},
title = {Long-Read Sequencing for the Rapid Response to Infectious Diseases Outbreaks.},
journal = {Current clinical microbiology reports},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {10},
pmid = {40384881},
issn = {2196-5471},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Long-read sequencing (LRS) has revolutionized pathogen surveillance by enabling real-time, high-fidelity genomic analysis critical for outbreak response. This review synthesizes recent breakthroughs in LRS, evaluating its impact on genomic epidemiology, metagenomics, and public health decision-making while addressing limitations and prospects for integrating LRS into global outbreak surveillance.

RECENT FINDINGS: Unlike short-read sequencing, LRS-pioneered by Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) and Pacific Biosciences (PacBio)-resolves complex genomic structures, antimicrobial resistance determinants, and transmission dynamics with unprecedented accuracy. The portability of some LRS devices has facilitated rapid pathogen identification in field settings, notably during the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemics. Despite advancements in basecalling algorithms and target enrichment, challenges including sequencing errors, computational bottlenecks, and cost barriers remain.

SUMMARY: By critically evaluating recent findings and discussing future directions, this review highlights the importance of leveraging LRS for outbreak preparedness and response, equipping researchers and public health professionals with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of modern infectious disease challenges.},
}

@article {pmid40384749,
year = {2025},
author = {Coller, BS},
title = {Embedding a commitment to equitable global access into basic and early-phase translational research.},
journal = {Journal of clinical and translational science},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {e88},
pmid = {40384749},
issn = {2059-8661},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the inequities in U.S. healthcare in ways that captured public attention and reinforced the need to view all of healthcare through an equity lens. It also exposed global inequities in access to healthcare technologies. At Rockefeller University, we participate in the entire spectrum of translational research, but our focus is in the areas of basic research and new methods to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease, extending to proof of concept preclinical and Phase 1 studies. Since we believe that all phases of translational research should have an equity lens, we have instituted an initiative to encourage thought and planning about global equitable access to discoveries made by our trainee Clinical Scholars and faculty, even at the earliest phases of basic research. Assuring global equitable access to new technologies requires addressing at least 3 different aspects of new technology: 1. Patenting and licensing, 2. Manufacturing, and 3. Dissemination and implementation in low- and middle-income countries. In this review, I focus on patenting and licensing and offer ten questions for inventors to consider in discussing licensing their technologies with technology transfer officers to maximize equitable global access to the technologies they create.},
}

@article {pmid40384465,
year = {2025},
author = {Liang, J and Liu, C and Xu, T},
title = {Innovative biosensing smart masks: unveiling the future of respiratory monitoring.},
journal = {Materials horizons},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5mh00279f},
pmid = {40384465},
issn = {2051-6355},
abstract = {Real-time monitoring of respiratory health is increasingly critical, particularly in addressing global health challenges such as Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Smart masks equipped with biosensing mechanisms revolutionize respiratory health monitoring by enabling real-time detection of respiratory parameters and biomarkers. In recent years, significant advancements have been achieved in the development of smart masks based on different sensor types with high sensitivity and accuracy, flexible functionality, and portability, providing new approaches for remote and real-time monitoring of respiratory parameters and biomarkers. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of development and future potential of biosensing smart masks in various domains. This review outlines a systematic categorization of smart masks according to diverse sensing principles, classifying them into six categories: electrochemical sensors, optical sensors, piezoelectric sensors, and others. This review discusses the basic sensing principles and mechanisms of smart masks and describes the existing research developments of their different biosensors. Additionally, it explores the innovative applications of smart masks in health monitoring, protective functions, and expanding application scenarios. This review also identifies the current challenges faced by smart masks, including issues with sensor accuracy, environmental interference, and the need for better integration of multifunctional features. Proposed solutions to these challenges are discussed, along with the anticipated role of smart masks in early disease detection, personalized medicine, and environmental protection.},
}

@article {pmid40384192,
year = {2025},
author = {Cercel, RA and Buibaş, FI and Şerbănescu, MS and Mirea, AA and Dumitrescu, F and Pirici, I and Badea-Voiculescu, O and Mogoantă, L and Botezat, MM},
title = {COVID-19 - multisystem disease.},
journal = {Romanian journal of morphology and embryology = Revue roumaine de morphologie et embryologie},
volume = {66},
number = {1},
pages = {61-67},
doi = {10.47162/RJME.66.1.05},
pmid = {40384192},
issn = {2066-8279},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused a global public health crisis, with a significant impact on multiple body systems. This virus, a member of the Coronaviridae family, shows ~80% genomic similarity to SARS-CoV and ~50% genomic similarity to Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The spike (S) protein plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of the virus, as it facilitates its entry into host cells by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. In addition to the respiratory system damage, SARS-CoV-2 infection causes a variety of gastrointestinal (GI), neurological, cardiovascular (CV), ocular, renal, etc. clinical manifestations. Neurological complications, such as anosmia, ague, headache, encephalitis and cerebrovascular events, were frequently observed, being attributed to both direct viral invasion and a very strong systemic inflammatory response. GI symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting are common and may occur independently of respiratory symptoms, and the presence of viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) detected in fecal samples suggests possible fecal-oral transmission. The CV system is affected by myocardial damage, inflammation and coagulation disorders, with an increased risk of thromboembolic events. At the ocular level, the virus was identified in ocular secretions, and conjunctivitis, uveitis and episcleritis were observed in about 11% of patients. Renal involvement, manifested by acute kidney injury, was detected in 0.5-7% of cases. In conclusion, SARS-CoV-2 infection is not limited to respiratory tract involvement but also has significant systemic implications.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
*Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

@article {pmid40384184,
year = {2025},
author = {N, SR and Choi, G and Jin, GW and Choy, JH},
title = {Transforming Niclosamide through Nanotechnology: A Promising Approach for Long COVID Management.},
journal = {Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2410345},
doi = {10.1002/smll.202410345},
pmid = {40384184},
issn = {1613-6829},
support = {//National Academy of Sciences, Republic of Korea/ ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has infected over 770 million people worldwide. The long-term effects of COVID-19 and their management have become important issues. Accumulating evidence indicates that post-COVID-19 syndrome, also known as long COVID, is not limited to respiratory symptoms but affects a wide range of systems, including neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and reproductive systems etc. The social and economic losses associated with these effects are estimated to reach 3·7 trillion dollars in the United States alone. However, no treatment for long COVID has been developed. Herein, the literature on long COVID is comprehensively reviewed to examine the underlying causes. Additionally, evidence supporting the efficacy of nanoengineered niclosamide is presented, given its ability to counteract the underlying causes. Niclosamide is already Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, and the nanoengineered one is a viable candidate for clinical trials for long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid40383676,
year = {2025},
author = {Presicce, P and Morselli, M and Jeong, A and Altendahl, M and Martinez, G and Del Vecchio, G and Devaskar, SU and Pellegrini, M and Afshar, Y and Kallapur, SG},
title = {Placental Privilege: Evidence of organ resilience in severe COVID-19 in pregnancy.},
journal = {Placenta},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.placenta.2025.05.003},
pmid = {40383676},
issn = {1532-3102},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 infection in pregnancy is associated with preterm birth and an increased risk of severe disease, needing intensive care admission for management of maternal multi-organ failure. The placenta, a fetal organ, functions as a barrier at the maternal interface and expresses the SARS-CoV-2 viral receptors. However, placental infection and transplacental transfer of virus are rare, suggesting placental resistance to viral infection. Here, we seek to determine the impact of severe COVID-19 infection on maternal, newborn, and placental outcomes.

METHODS: A prospectively recruited cohort of pregnant COVID-19 patients (n = 204) at a quaternary perinatal academic center were retrospectively analyzed. During pregnancy umbilical artery (UA) Doppler assessment was performed to assess placental function. At delivery, maternal and fetal outcomes were assessed, with paired maternal peripheral blood and placenta samples collected (n = 26) for bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Post-sequencing analysis with single cell deconvolution and pathway analysis was performed.

RESULTS: Maternally-indicated preterm births were more frequent in severe, but not asymptomatic or mild/moderate COVID-19 infection. In severe COVID-19 infection, UA Doppler assessment was normal. Rates of fetal growth restriction and placenta:birth weight ratios were similar between groups. RNA-seq showed a distinct adaptive immune activation signature in peripheral blood while placental transcripts showed no significant changes in immune cell types.

CONCLUSION: Despite multi-organ failure, severe COVID-19 did not significantly impact placental function and transcriptomics with iatrogenic preterm birth indicated for maternal-indications.},
}

@article {pmid40383645,
year = {2025},
author = {Ntontis, E and Williams, R and Luzynska, K and Wright, A and Rousaki, A},
title = {Secondary stressors and their psychosocial impacts on healthcare staff: lessons from a qualitative systematic review from the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK.},
journal = {BJPsych open},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {e110},
doi = {10.1192/bjo.2025.51},
pmid = {40383645},
issn = {2056-4724},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Extreme events (e.g. floods and disease outbreaks) can overwhelm healthcare workers (HCWs) and healthcare systems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, high levels of distress and mental ill health were reported by HCWs.

AIMS: To examine and synthesise research findings reported in the qualitative literature regarding the stressors, and their psychosocial impacts, faced by HCWs in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to provide lessons for future support.

METHOD: Qualitative articles were identified in EMBASE and OVID (preregistered on PROSPERO: CRD42022304235). Studies were required to have been published between January 2021 and January 2022 and to have examined the impact of COVID-19 on UK HCWs. We included 27 articles that represented the experiences of 2640 HCWs, assessed their quality using National Institute for Health and Care Excellence criteria and integrated their findings using thematic synthesis.

RESULTS: Several secondary stressors were identified, including lack of personal protective equipment, ineffective leadership and communication, high workloads and problems stemming from uncertainty and a lack of knowledge. Stressors were related to adverse psychosocial outcomes including worry, fatigue, lack of confidence in oneself and senior managers, impacts on teamwork and feeling unappreciated or that one's needs are not recognised.

CONCLUSIONS: Our thematic synthesis moves beyond simply mapping stressors faced by HCWs by considering their antecedents, origins and psychosocial impacts. Utilising a theoretical framework that points towards systemic deficiencies, we argue that secondary stressors can be modified to remove their negative effects. Consequently, workforce planning should shift from focusing on individual change towards amending psychosocial environments in which HCWs work.},
}

@article {pmid40382241,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Q and Wang, Q and Wang, R and Zhang, L and Liu, Z},
title = {The frameshifting element in coronaviruses: structure, function, and potential as a therapeutic target.},
journal = {Trends in pharmacological sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tips.2025.04.003},
pmid = {40382241},
issn = {1873-3735},
abstract = {The frameshifting element (FSE) comprises a slippery heptanucleotide sequence followed by a downstream RNA structure, such as a pseudoknot or stem-loop. Found in various RNA viruses, FSE regulates viral replication via programmed -1 ribosomal frameshifting (-1 PRF), making it a potential broad-spectrum antiviral target. Advances in RNA structural analysis have elucidated the dynamic conformations and cross-viral diversity of FSE, with the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak further highlighting its role in viral replication. Efforts to develop antiviral drugs targeting FSE have progressed through virtual and phenotypic screening. In this review, we explore the evolution, structure, and function of FSE in coronaviruses, evaluate recent advances in FSE-targeted drug development, and discuss their design advantages, efficacy, and challenges, providing insights for future antiviral strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40380990,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghosh, S and Das Sarma, J},
title = {The age-dependent neuroglial interaction with peripheral immune cells in coronavirus-induced neuroinflammation with a special emphasis on COVID-19.},
journal = {Biogerontology},
volume = {26},
number = {3},
pages = {111},
pmid = {40380990},
issn = {1573-6768},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *Neuroinflammatory Diseases/immunology/virology ; *Aging/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Neuroglia/immunology ; Blood-Brain Barrier/immunology ; Animals ; Age Factors ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases are chronic progressive disorders that impair memory, cognition, and motor functions, leading to conditions such as dementia, muscle weakness, and speech difficulties. Aging disrupts the stringent balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, increasing neuroinflammation, which contributes to neurodegenerative diseases. The aging brain is particularly vulnerable to infections due to a weakened and compromised immune response and impaired integrity of the blood-brain barrier, allowing pathogens like viruses to trigger neurodegeneration. Coronaviruses have been linked to both acute and long-term neurological complications, including cognitive impairments, psychiatric disorders, and neuroinflammation. The virus can induce a cytokine storm, damaging the central nervous system (CNS) and worsening existing neurological conditions. Though its exact mechanism of neuroinvasion remains elusive, evidence suggests it disrupts the blood-brain barrier and triggers immune dysregulation, leading to persistent neurological sequelae in elderly individuals. This review aims to understand the interaction between the peripheral immune system and CNS glial cells in aged individuals, which is imperative in addressing coronavirus-induced neuroinflammation and concomitant neurodegeneration.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*Neuroinflammatory Diseases/immunology/virology
*Aging/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
*Neuroglia/immunology
Blood-Brain Barrier/immunology
Animals
Age Factors

@article {pmid40380599,
year = {2025},
author = {Rajasekar, SJS and Saleem M, and Kannan N, and Narayanasamy K, and Varalakshmi P, },
title = {Artificial Intelligence Powered Audiomics: The Futuristic Biomarker in Pulmonary Medicine - A State-of-the-Art Review.},
journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics},
volume = {327},
number = {},
pages = {884-885},
doi = {10.3233/SHTI250491},
pmid = {40380599},
issn = {1879-8365},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; Biomarkers ; *Lung Diseases/diagnosis ; *Respiratory Sounds ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pulmonary Medicine/methods ; },
abstract = {AI-driven "audiomics" leverages voice and respiratory sounds as non-invasive biomarkers to diagnose and manage pulmonary conditions, including COVID-19, tuberculosis, ILD, asthma, and COPD. By analyzing acoustic features, machine and deep learning enhance diagnostic accuracy and track disease progression. Key applications include cough-based TB detection, smartphone COVID-19 screening, and speech analysis for asthma and COPD monitoring. Ethical challenges like data privacy and standardization remain barriers to clinical adoption. With ongoing research, audiomics holds promise for transforming respiratory diagnostics and personalized care.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*COVID-19/diagnosis
Biomarkers
*Lung Diseases/diagnosis
*Respiratory Sounds
SARS-CoV-2
*Pulmonary Medicine/methods

@article {pmid40163884,
year = {2025},
author = {Aman, M and Jeevananthan, A and Martinez-Cruz, M and Namasingh, N and Batch, BC},
title = {Endocrinology: What You May Have Missed in 2024.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {178},
number = {5_Supplement},
pages = {S20-S38},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-00990},
pmid = {40163884},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/complications ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy ; *Endocrinology/trends ; *Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists ; Prediabetic State/drug therapy ; *Endocrine System Diseases/drug therapy/therapy ; Hyperparathyroidism/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {During 2024, there were many practice-changing innovations in the field of endocrinology, particularly related to the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs). From the substantial new evidence published in 2024, 10 studies are highlighted that offer critical information for clinicians who manage or comanage patients with endocrine disorders including prediabetes, diabetes, obesity, and hyperparathyroidism. Two of the 10 articles are focused on use of GLP-1RAs in multiple clinical settings not studied in the original GLP-1RA trials, including after bariatric surgery and before endoscopy. Two additional studies focused on GLP-1RA explore the risk for thyroid cancer in patients prescribed GLP-1RA and the effect of a GLP-1RA on chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. Three articles investigate opportunities for deintensification of insulin frequency or an alternate method of insulin delivery in patients with type 2 diabetes. One article explores the cardiometabolic effects of intermittent fasting in persons with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. The last 2 articles explore the incidence of diabetes after SARS-CoV-2 infection and the skeletal effects of parathyroidectomy as a treatment of hyperparathyroidism. The results of each study have a direct effect on the delivery of care for patients with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and hyperparathyroidism.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/complications
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy
*Endocrinology/trends
*Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists
Prediabetic State/drug therapy
*Endocrine System Diseases/drug therapy/therapy
Hyperparathyroidism/drug therapy

@article {pmid40163866,
year = {2025},
author = {Hamed, HKA and Nachman, A and Riopel, N and Schuster, M},
title = {Infectious Diseases: What You May Have Missed in 2024.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {178},
number = {5_Supplement},
pages = {S54-S73},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-00925},
pmid = {40163866},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/complications ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Communicable Diseases/drug therapy/epidemiology ; Helicobacter Infections/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {In 2024, infectious disease literature focused on advancements in the treatment of severe infections and prevention of high-burden diseases. Building on prior data, further evidence supports both the use of shorter courses of antibiotics and the earlier transition to oral antibiotics, including for severe infections, such as bacteremia. A new medication has demonstrated significant, high-impact findings in the long-acting category of drugs for the prevention of HIV infection. Antibiotic resistance continues to be a growing threat, and research this year has demonstrated significant advances for new agents helping to combat resistant gram-negative organisms. Research on the long-term sequelae of COVID-19 continues to expand, with a living systematic review providing us a better understanding of symptom management. Novel treatment regimens for Helicobacter pylori infection are being studied, and the evidence is reviewed for these new regimens. Finally, several emerging infections are highlighted to raise awareness of new or concerning outbreaks that may cause significant effects in the coming year.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/complications
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
*Communicable Diseases/drug therapy/epidemiology
Helicobacter Infections/drug therapy

@article {pmid40105889,
year = {2025},
author = {Mueller, MR and Ganesh, R and Beckman, TJ and Hurt, RT},
title = {Long COVID: emerging pathophysiological mechanisms.},
journal = {Minerva medica},
volume = {116},
number = {2},
pages = {156-165},
doi = {10.23736/S0026-4806.25.09539-4},
pmid = {40105889},
issn = {1827-1669},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Fatigue/physiopathology/etiology ; },
abstract = {Post-COVID conditions, also termed "long COVID," are a heterogeneous set of conditions persisting greater than 28 days after initial infection. These conditions, which include fatigue, brain fog, orthostatic intolerance, and pain, are a significant source of morbidity and limited function worldwide. Nonetheless, both the pathophysiology and treatment of long COVID remain poorly understood. Several pathophysiologic mechanisms have been proposed including neuroinflammatory drivers, endothelial dysfunction, neurotransmitter dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, autonomic dysfunction, and central sensitization. In this article, we present a conceptual framework for evaluation of long COVID symptoms, as well as the evidence behind their proposed pathophysiologic mechanisms. Patients may struggle with one or more of the proposed mechanisms listed above, and the contributions from each process may vary depending on the patient. Although no FDA-approved therapies exist for long COVID, we review several potential promising and mechanistically plausible therapies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Fatigue/physiopathology/etiology

@article {pmid39841907,
year = {2025},
author = {Arepalli, S and Kopplin, L and Tsui, E and Brill, D and Sobrin, L and Papaliodis, G and Darwish, D and Raiji, V and Janardhana, P and Emami-Naeini, P and Nore, L and Parker, M and Thomas, AS},
title = {THE HETEROGENEOUS PRESENTATIONS OF DE NOVO AND RECURRENT OCULAR INFLAMMATION AFTER COVID-19 VACCINATION : A Multicenter Report and a Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)},
volume = {45},
number = {6},
pages = {1175-1183},
doi = {10.1097/IAE.0000000000004413},
pmid = {39841907},
issn = {1539-2864},
mesh = {Humans ; Retrospective Studies ; Female ; Male ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Middle Aged ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Recurrence ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Adult ; Aged ; *Uveitis/diagnosis/etiology/epidemiology ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Uveitis, Anterior/diagnosis/etiology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To describe the patterns of ocular inflammation after coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination, assess underlying commonalities, and understand outcomes.

METHODS: Retrospective, multicenter cohort study, conducted between 2020 and 2021. Patients with no previous uveitis history (de novo) or a known uveitis history (recurrent) who developed ocular inflammation within 42 days of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination were identified. Characteristics of the uveitis, treatment approaches, and clinical outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS: Fifty-five eyes of 39 patients with ocular inflammation temporally related to vaccination were identified. Twenty-two patients (36 eyes) were de novo , while 17 (19 eyes) were recurrent. Anterior uveitis was most common. HLA-B27 positivity was found in 6 (27.2%) de novo patients, and 5 (29.4%) recurrent patients. Most patients required only observation, topical, or systemic corticosteroids. Among vaccinated patients, 12.3% of new uveitis referrals during the study period were related to coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination. Among patients with a history of quiescent uveitis, only 0.85% experienced a flare after vaccination.

CONCLUSION: Most inflammation thought to be secondary to coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination achieved quiescence with observation or steroids, and the overall incidence is low. Anterior uveitis was the most common. HLA-B27 positivity occurred at a higher rate than reported in the baseline population.},
}

Humans
Retrospective Studies
Female
Male
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Middle Aged
*SARS-CoV-2
Recurrence
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Adult
Aged
*Uveitis/diagnosis/etiology/epidemiology
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Uveitis, Anterior/diagnosis/etiology

@article {pmid39484771,
year = {2025},
author = {Moheb-Alian, A and Akbari, A and Nooraei, S and Bahrulolum, H and Farsani, ZM and Mokhtari, N and Ebadi, MS and Farsani, AM and Khatami, S and Esmaeili, M and Keykhaee, Z and Heydargoy, MH and Rafiei, Z and Ahmadian, G},
title = {Mucormycosis and COVID-19: Unraveling the Interplay of Fungal Infection in a Global Health Crisis: An Overview.},
journal = {Infectious disorders drug targets},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {e18715265310191},
pmid = {39484771},
issn = {2212-3989},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Mucormycosis/epidemiology/drug therapy/complications/diagnosis ; Global Health ; Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Coinfection/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The healthcare system has been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an increase in secondary and co-infections among patients. Factors like pulmonary damage and weakened immune systems make patients more susceptible to fungal infections. Mucormycosis, an opportunistic fungal infection, prospers in environments with limited oxygen, and elevated glucose levels due to conditions such as diabetes and steroid use, as well as in acidic environments from metabolic acidosis and diabetic ketoacidosis, where it demonstrates heightened germination ability. Recognizing these complications is critical to minimize harm to patients. The insights gained from this review can improve our understanding of how fungal infections develop in connection to COVID-19, leading to better predictive algorithms, tailored care plans, enhanced antifungal treatments, quicker diagnostics, and improved management strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Mucormycosis/epidemiology/drug therapy/complications/diagnosis
Global Health
Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Coinfection/microbiology

@article {pmid39313886,
year = {2025},
author = {Maideen, NMP and Balasubramanian, R},
title = {An Overview of Possible Beneficial Effects of Black Seeds (Nigella Sativa) on the Management of "Disease X".},
journal = {Infectious disorders drug targets},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {e18715265304758},
pmid = {39313886},
issn = {2212-3989},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nigella sativa/chemistry ; *Seeds/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 ; Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Picornaviridae Infections/drug therapy ; Phytotherapy ; },
abstract = {A mystery pathogen that has not yet infected the entire world's population is predicted to be the cause of Disease X, which will be contagious. According to WHO scientists, 50 million people are expected to die from Disease X, which would be 20 times deadlier than coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Many international initiatives are currently in motion to get ready for future pandemics. These include updating the International Health Regulation and the European Legislation, establishing the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA), establishing international hubs, taking on the international challenge of developing a vaccine for Disease X within 100 days of recognition of emerging Pathogen X, and updating the preparedness plan of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Our current review's main objective is to determine whether black seeds (Nigella Sativa) can manage Disease X. It has been established by several studies that black seeds (N. sativa) have antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which would be useful in the management of Disease X. Black seeds (N. sativa) may be utilized in conjunction with supportive care and symptomatic therapy to manage Disease X in early phases. Future randomized controlled clinical trials would further evaluate the safety and effectiveness of black seeds (N. sativa) in patients with Disease X.},
}

Humans
*Nigella sativa/chemistry
*Seeds/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/therapeutic use
COVID-19
Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Picornaviridae Infections/drug therapy
Phytotherapy

@article {pmid37725757,
year = {2025},
author = {Bakrania, A and Mo, Y and Zheng, G and Bhat, M},
title = {RNA nanomedicine in liver diseases.},
journal = {Hepatology (Baltimore, Md.)},
volume = {81},
number = {6},
pages = {1847-1877},
pmid = {37725757},
issn = {1527-3350},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nanomedicine/methods ; *Liver Diseases/therapy ; COVID-19 ; *RNA/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The remarkable impact of RNA nanomedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the expansive therapeutic potential of this field in diverse disease contexts. In recent years, RNA nanomedicine targeting the liver has been paradigm-shifting in the management of metabolic diseases such as hyperoxaluria and amyloidosis. RNA nanomedicine has significant potential in the management of liver diseases, where optimal management would benefit from targeted delivery, doses titrated to liver metabolism, and personalized therapy based on the specific site of interest. In this review, we discuss in-depth the different types of RNA and nanocarriers used for liver targeting along with their specific applications in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, liver fibrosis, and liver cancers. We further highlight the strategies for cell-specific delivery and future perspectives in this field of research with the emergence of small activating RNA, circular RNA, and RNA base editing approaches.},
}

Humans
*Nanomedicine/methods
*Liver Diseases/therapy
COVID-19
*RNA/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40380415,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsirintani, M},
title = {Pros, Cons and Limits of AI in Public Health.},
journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics},
volume = {327},
number = {},
pages = {208-212},
doi = {10.3233/SHTI250303},
pmid = {40380415},
issn = {1879-8365},
mesh = {*Artificial Intelligence/ethics ; Humans ; *Public Health/ethics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {This paper explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Public Health (PH), examining its benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations. AI has become an essential tool in healthcare, improving diagnosis, treatment, and health system management. Its applications range from disease surveillance to personalized patient care, offering transformative potential in addressing public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the rapid adoption of AI technologies also raises concerns related to accuracy, bias, ethical dilemmas, and the safety of AI-driven decisions in healthcare. The paper presents a systematic review of the literature, identifying key areas where AI is used in public health, alongside the advantages and potential risks. Additionally, it highlights the importance of the EU AI Act, which categorizes public health AI systems as high-risk, requiring strict oversight to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of individual rights. The Act serves as a critical framework to foster trust and safety in AI applications, ensuring their responsible and ethical use in public health while enhancing Europe's preparedness for future health challenges. Further research is needed to address the limitations and ethical issues associated with AI in public health, including its impact on workforce dynamics and equitable healthcare access.},
}

*Artificial Intelligence/ethics
Humans
*Public Health/ethics
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40380300,
year = {2025},
author = {Polspoel, M and Mullie, P and Reilly, T and Van Tiggelen, D and Calders, P},
title = {Comparison of physical activity and sedentary behavior between telework and office work in a working population during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1805},
pmid = {40380300},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Sedentary Behavior ; *Exercise ; Observational Studies as Topic ; *Teleworking/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; *Workplace ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Accelerometry ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The surge in telework due to technological advances and confinement during the coronavirus disease pandemic of 2019 (COVID-19) has drawn attention to its effects on physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB). This review aimed to analyze the impact of telework compared to office work in PA and SB, assessed by validated questionnaires and accelerometers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: Observational studies that evaluated the effect of telework in PA and SB compared to office work were identified by literature searches in three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) published up to January 2023. Studies were included when written in English, including observational design, evaluating the effect of telework on PA and/or SB compared to office work, and using validated questionnaires and accelerometers to assess PA and/or SB. The meta-analysis evaluated continuous outcomes with a random-effect model using Review Manager Web 5 (Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK). The risk of bias was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute quality assessment tool for Observational studies.

RESULTS: Twelve observational studies, with a total of 9,059 participants, were included in this study. Ten studies assessed PA and SB with questionnaires and two with accelerometers. A significant decrease of -0.33 (95% CI -0.59, -0.08) in light PA was observed, while no significant changes were observed for total PA (-0.19 [-0.42, 0.04]), moderate to vigorous PA (-0.44 [-1.32, 0.44]) and SB (0.12 [-0.20, 0.44]).

CONCLUSIONS: Telework significantly decreases light PA in a working population during the COVID-19 pandemic. More research using validated measurement tools to assess PA and SB is needed to confirm this result. Given the extensive health benefits of physical activity and reduced sedentary behavior, public health resources must focus on encouraging PA and minimizing SB, especially among teleworkers.

TRAIL REGISTRATION: The review protocol was registered in the Prospero database (CRD42024502374).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Sedentary Behavior
*Exercise
Observational Studies as Topic
*Teleworking/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics
*Workplace
SARS-CoV-2
Accelerometry

@article {pmid40380268,
year = {2025},
author = {Frentzen, E and Fegert, JM and Martin, A and Witt, A},
title = {Child and adolescent mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic: an overview of key findings from a thematic series.},
journal = {Child and adolescent psychiatry and mental health},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {57},
pmid = {40380268},
issn = {1753-2000},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The 2019 outbreak of COVID-19, a severe acute respiratory infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, triggered a global pandemic with far-reaching consequences. Societies worldwide felt the effects of the virus and pandemic related restrictive measures on their economies, healthcare systems, and social fabric. To curb the spread of COVID-19, numerous restrictive measures were implemented. This manuscript summarizes the findings published within the thematic series on Child Mental Health during the Covid-19 pandemic.

METHODS: Between May 2020 and June 2024 Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health (CAPMH) issued a thematic series on "Child Mental Health during the Covid-19 pandemic." All manuscripts underwent a prescreening process by the Editor-in-Chief, including checks regarding the compliance with ethical standards compliance with the scope of the journal and the thematic series. Suitable manuscripts were then handled by one of the editors of the thematic series. All suitable manuscripts then underwent a peer review process that included at least two reviews. Different aspects of child and adolescent mental health as well as various aspects of the pandemic - in addition to their findings -were investigated, defined and discussed throughout the manuscripts within the series.

RESULTS: A total of 327 manuscripts were submitted and 85 manuscripts were published within the series. Manuscripts included qualitative and quantitative studies as well as systematic reviews. The manuscripts reported findings from 22 countries from all over the world and various populations. The studies covered the somatic and psychological impacts of the pandemic, including emotional and behavioral consequences, non-suicidal self-injury and suicidal behavior, threat and trauma, parent child separation, school closure and home schooling, physical activity and media use, psychiatric care, as well as digital resources and online therapy. Through its findings, the research also highlighted the multilayered impact the pandemic had, as well as the need to make targeted interventions and evidence-based interventions available to a large audience.

CONCLUSION: A broad range of literature in the series submitted from various countries around the world documented the profound impact of COVID-19 on child mental health. The findings can be used as a foundation for conceptualizing targeted programs to counteract the consequences, in addition to helping prepare systems in the event of similar incidents in the future.},
}

@article {pmid40280022,
year = {2025},
author = {Sahni, S and Kaushal, LA and Gupta, P},
title = {Gendered differences and strategies for work-life balance: Systematic review based on social ecological framework perspective.},
journal = {Acta psychologica},
volume = {256},
number = {},
pages = {105019},
doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105019},
pmid = {40280022},
issn = {1873-6297},
mesh = {Humans ; *Work-Life Balance ; Female ; Male ; Sex Factors ; *COVID-19 ; *Gender Role ; },
abstract = {This paper systematically reviews gender-based work-life balance (WLB) studies conducted during pandemic times. It outlines potential problems and solutions for effectively managing work and non-work commitments. Using the Socio-ecological system theory, the study makes a significant contribution by identifying the root causes of gender disparities across four levels of inquiry: the micro, meso, exo, and macro system, based on themes that directly emerge from analysing the previous 109 articles published between till 2024. A conceptual framework is developed to understand various factors that explain why women are at high risk of experiencing gender disparity. However, we complement and populate the model with pioneering and insightful instances of gender inequalities from the literature to provide richer insights into gender-based WLB. Drawing from our research findings, we propose specific strategies to achieve WLB without reinforcing traditional gender roles. These strategies have practical implications for policymakers and human resources departments, providing them with a roadmap to design and implement work-life-friendly policies differentiated by gender to generate overall well-being.},
}

Humans
*Work-Life Balance
Female
Male
Sex Factors
*COVID-19
*Gender Role

@article {pmid40279858,
year = {2025},
author = {Patel, PA and Ripp, AT and Nguyen, SA and Duffy, AN and Soler, ZM and Eskandari, R and White, DR and Schlosser, RJ},
title = {Increased incidence of intracranial complications following pediatric sinogenic and otogenic infections in the post-COVID-19 Era: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology},
volume = {193},
number = {},
pages = {112364},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijporl.2025.112364},
pmid = {40279858},
issn = {1872-8464},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Child ; Incidence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Adolescent ; *Sinusitis/complications/epidemiology ; Sinus Thrombosis, Intracranial/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This systematic-review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate and summarize the prevalence of pediatric intracranial complications following sinogenic or otogenic infections before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A literature search was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases to answer the question: In pediatric patients, was there an increase in the prevalence or severity of intracranial complications due to sinogenic or otogenic infections during and after the COVID-19 pandemic? Publications which included primary data on patients under the age of 18 years old, focusing on intracranial complications following otogenic and sinogenic infections were included.

RESULTS: Of 1025 abstracts screened, 18 studies were included. There were no significant differences in age or sex between the two cohorts. Compared to the pre-COVID era, post-COVID infections were more likely to have neurologic complications upon presentation [11.4 % (1.6-53.0) vs 50.1 % (13.9-86.2), p < 0.01], cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) [14.1 % (10.6-18.2) vs 40.5 % (25.2-56.9), p < 0.01], intraparenchymal abscess [40.3 % (43.9-72.2) vs 54.9 % (25.2-87.1), p < 0.01], and meningitis [10.6 % (0.0-39.4) vs 40.2 % (13.4-70.8), p < 0.01]. Metronidazole use [38.7 % (31.8-46.0) vs 71.9 % (51.3-88.6), p < 0.01], craniectomy [16.1 % (1.3-42.8) vs 37.4 % (2.9-83.0), p = 0.02], and burr holes [16.8 % (11.5-23.3) vs 26.6 % (12.7-43.3), p = 0.02] were increased in the post-COVID cohort.

CONCLUSION: There are considerable differences in neurologic deficits, CVST, intraparenchymal abscesses, meningitis, and treatment modalities in pre- and post-COVID cohorts of children with intracranial complications of otorhinogenic origin. Further research is required to determine the underlying mechanism for these differences.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Child
Incidence
SARS-CoV-2
Adolescent
*Sinusitis/complications/epidemiology
Sinus Thrombosis, Intracranial/epidemiology

@article {pmid40379394,
year = {2025},
author = {Boloré, S and Spielmann, V and Massebiaux, C},
title = {[Clinical nursing assessment of Covid-19 patients: a comparison of home-hospital practices].},
journal = {Soins; la revue de reference infirmiere},
volume = {70},
number = {895},
pages = {10-14},
doi = {10.1016/j.soin.2025.03.002},
pmid = {40379394},
issn = {0038-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/nursing ; *Nursing Assessment/methods ; Switzerland/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {This study examines the impact of clinical assessment training on nurses' practices in Geneva during the Covid-19 pandemic. The results reveal that trained professionals, mainly in hospital settings, adopted more advanced techniques, such as auscultation and palpation. Practices varied significantly according to practice location and training received, underlining the importance of ongoing training to improve quality of care.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/nursing
*Nursing Assessment/methods
Switzerland/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40379315,
year = {2025},
author = {Iannizzi, C and Andreas, M and Bohndorf, E and Hirsch, C and Zorger, AM and Brinkmann-Paulukat, J and Bormann, B and Kaufman, J and Lischetzki, T and Monsef, I and Neufeind, J and Schmid-Küpke, N and Thole, S and Worbes, K and Skoetz, N},
title = {Communication-based interventions to increase COVID-19 vaccine willingness and uptake: a systematic review with meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e072942},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072942},
pmid = {40379315},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Communication ; *Vaccination Hesitancy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Vaccination/psychology ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of different communication strategies to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake and willingness.

DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs), following recommendations from the Cochrane Handbook and reporting according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline.

DATA SOURCES: We searched the following databases until 27 July 2022: Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection and WHO COVID-19 Global literature.

We included RCTs investigating, any population, communication-based interventions to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake and comparing these with no intervention (with or without placebo), another communication strategy or another type of intervention.

METHODS: Screening, data extraction and bias assessment, using the Cochrane ROB 1.0 tool, were conducted by two authors independently. We performed meta-analyses if studies were homogeneous using the Review Manager (RevMan 5) software, synthesised the remaining results narratively and assessed the certainty in the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.

RESULTS: We identified 49 studies reporting on the predefined four categories of communication interventions. Evidence from our meta-analyses shows that COVID-19 vaccine uptake may increase when education and information strategies are applied (risk ratio (RR) 1.23, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.28; high-certainty evidence) or social norms are communicated (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.33; high-certainty evidence) compared with no intervention. The different communication strategies mostly have little to no impact on vaccine intention; however, there may be a slight increase in vaccine confidence when gain framing is applied compared with no intervention.

CONCLUSION: Overall, we found that education and information-based interventions or social norm-framing strategies are most effective compared with no intervention given. Our findings show that some of the investigated communication strategies might influence policy decision-making, and our results could be useful for future pandemics as well.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO (CRD42021296618).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
*Communication
*Vaccination Hesitancy
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Vaccination/psychology
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care

@article {pmid40378522,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, W and Kim, J and Lee, RT and Maurer-Stroh, S and Renia, L and Tay, MZ},
title = {SARS-CoV-2: lessons in virus mutation prediction and pandemic preparedness.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {95},
number = {},
pages = {102560},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102560},
pmid = {40378522},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted an unprecedented global response. In particular, extraordinary efforts have been dedicated toward monitoring and predicting variant emergence due to its huge impact, particularly for vaccine escape. Broadly, we classify such methods into two categories: forward mutation prediction, where phenotypes are first observed and the responsible genotypes traced, and reverse mutation prediction, which starts with selected pathogen genetic profiles and characterizes their associated phenotypes. Reverse mutation prediction strategies have advantages in being able to sample a more complete evolutionary space since sequences that do not yet exist can be sampled. The rapid improvement in the maturity and scale of reverse mutation prediction strategies, such as deep mutational scanning, has led to significant amounts of data for machine learning, with concomitant improvement in the prediction results from computational tools. Such integrated prediction approaches are generalizable and offer significant opportunities for anticipating viral evolution and for pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid40378132,
year = {2025},
author = {Dorjee, K and Sadoff, RC and Mansour, FR and Dorjee, S and Binder, EM and Stetson, M and Yuen, R and Kim, H},
title = {Menstrual disturbance associated with COVID-19 vaccines: A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {5},
pages = {e0320162},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0320162},
pmid = {40378132},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Female ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Menstruation Disturbances/chemically induced/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; Menstrual Cycle/drug effects ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and menstrual disturbance is unclear, in part because researchers have measured different outcomes (e.g., delays vs. changes to cycle length) with various study designs. Menstrual disruption could be a decisive factor in people's willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccine.

METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, and Web of Science for studies investigating menstrual cycle length, flow volume, post-menopausal bleeding, and unexpected or intermenstrual bleeding. Data were analyzed using fixed-effects meta-analysis with Shore's adjusted confidence intervals for heterogeneity.

FINDINGS: Seventeen studies with >1·9 million participants were analyzed. We found a 19% greater risk of increase in menstrual cycle length as compared to unvaccinated people or pre-vaccination time-periods (summary relative risk (sRR): 1·19; 95% CI: 1·11-1·26; n = 23,718 participants). The increase in risk was the same for Pfizer-BioNTech (sRR: 1·15; 1·05-1·27; n = 16,595) and Moderna vaccines (sRR: 1·15; 1·05-1·25; n = 7,523), similar for AstraZeneca (sRR: 1·27; 1·02-1·59; n = 532), and higher for the Janssen (sRR: 1·69; 1·14-2·52; n = 751) vaccine. In the first cycle after vaccination, length increased by
INTERPRETATION: We observed a mild increase in the risk of menstrual disturbance associated with COVID-19 vaccines. Such risks are likely clinically unmeaningful. Vaccine recipients should be appropriately counseled.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Female
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Menstruation Disturbances/chemically induced/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
Vaccination/adverse effects
Menstrual Cycle/drug effects

@article {pmid40377682,
year = {2025},
author = {Yin, J and Huang, J and Zhou, P and Li, L and Zheng, Q and Fu, H},
title = {The role of TLR4/NF-kB signaling axis in pneumonia: from molecular mechanisms to regulation by phytochemicals.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40377682},
issn = {1432-1912},
support = {2024qdjfxm002//Doctoral Research Initiation Fund/ ; 2024qdjfxm002//Doctoral Research Initiation Fund/ ; 2024qdjfxm002//Doctoral Research Initiation Fund/ ; 2024qdjfxm002//Doctoral Research Initiation Fund/ ; 2024qdjfxm002//Doctoral Research Initiation Fund/ ; 2024qdjfxm002//Doctoral Research Initiation Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Pneumonia, a leading global health challenge, is characterized by inflammation driven by dysregulated immune responses. Central to its pathogenesis is the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling axis, which orchestrates the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and initiates cascades that mediate innate immunity. While this pathway is essential for bacterial clearance, its overactivation can lead to excessive inflammation, tissue damage, and severe complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and sepsis. This review examines the role of the TLR4/NF-κB axis in pneumonia caused by various pathogens, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and SARS-CoV- 2, and highlights its dual role in immune defense and pathological inflammation. Furthermore, we explore molecular regulators and phytochemicals that modulate this axis, including baicalin, resveratrol, and sodium houttuyfonate, which exhibit promising therapeutic potential. By elucidating these mechanisms, this study provides insights into targeted interventions to balance immune responses and mitigate inflammation, paving the way for innovative treatments in pneumonia management.},
}

@article {pmid40377563,
year = {2024},
author = {Kamalov A, A and Gabbasova L, A and Nesterova O, Y and Bozhedomov V, A and Drapkina O, M},
title = {[Mens health preservation: gender-specific features of disease prevention and choice of program solution].},
journal = {Urologiia (Moscow, Russia : 1999)},
volume = {},
number = {6},
pages = {125-132},
pmid = {40377563},
issn = {1728-2985},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Male ; Life Expectancy ; Sex Factors ; },
abstract = {The protection of mens health as a concept is currently only beginning to emerge in most countries, but the belief about the need to develop this area is being discussed more and more often by leading representatives of the medical community. Interest in the issues of mens health protection and gender approaches to health assessment in the health system has increased significantly, primarily due to the higher mortality rate of the male population, as well as lower life expectancy at birth (LEB). Compared to women, men are more vulnerable to many diseases that affect the quality and duration of life, but they are poorly motivated to maintain health, rarely turn to doctors for prevention. Many important steps have already been taken in this direction: pilot projects are being created all over the world, interdisciplinary platforms are being developed, specialists are being trained and legislative regulation is changing. The joint work of doctors in the field, as well as the development of national programs, will help to overcome the gender gap in life expectancy between men and women by promoting a holistic and orderly approach to mens health.},
}

Humans
Female
Male
Life Expectancy
Sex Factors

@article {pmid40376900,
year = {2025},
author = {Cagliano, S and Coen, D},
title = {[Emergency Room, a strategic resource for population health.].},
journal = {Recenti progressi in medicina},
volume = {116},
number = {5},
pages = {285-290},
doi = {10.1701/4495.44948},
pmid = {40376900},
issn = {2038-1840},
mesh = {Humans ; *Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration/statistics & numerical data ; Italy/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Population Health ; Workload ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {In Italy, 609 active hospitals with Emergency Rooms or first and second-level Emergency Departments (DEA) see attend to approximately 20 million people annually. The number of visits to the Emergency Department per 1,000 inhabitants varies significantly from region to region, as do the main indicators of functioning and outcome. After several decades of organizational and professional growth, culminating in the activation of the Schools of specialization in emergency medicine, the Italian emergency departments are currently going through a period of crisis that has worsened following the Covid-19 pandemic. The demanding and risky characteristics of this work environment along with the impossibility of carrying out freelance activities have pushed young doctors to prefer other disciplines, leaving approximately 75% of the specialization grants unfilled. The workload of the Emergency departments is directly related to the crisis of territorial medicine which is proving increasingly unsuitable to respond to the health needs of citizens in an era of tumultuous epidemiological and technological changes, and to the heavy reduction in hospital staff and bed capacity number of beds throughout the country. This review aims to briefly retrace the recent history of the Italian PS, underline the importance of its performances, both in response to the most serious conditions of clinical emergency and in support of the most fragile segments of the population, and propose some lines of intervention that could support a health institution of fundamental public interest.},
}

Humans
*Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration/statistics & numerical data
Italy/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Population Health
Workload
Pandemics

@article {pmid40376818,
year = {2025},
author = {Song, Y and Bracchiglione, J and Meneses-Echávez, JF and de Carvalho Gomes, H and Albiger, B and Solà, I and Rigau, D and Alonso-Coello, P},
title = {Frameworks to support evidence-informed decision-making in public health and infectious disease prevention and control: a scoping review.},
journal = {Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin},
volume = {30},
number = {19},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2025.30.19.2400185},
pmid = {40376818},
issn = {1560-7917},
mesh = {Humans ; *Public Health/methods ; *Decision Making ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Communicable Diseases ; *Communicable Disease Control/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BackgroundEvidence-informed public health decision-making (EIDM) is a complex process that must consider multiple factors.AimWe aimed to identify and describe existing frameworks supporting evidence-informed public health decision-making and their application to infectious disease.MethodsWe conducted a scoping review to describe current EIDM framework use in public health. We included decision-making frameworks in public health and examples of their use in infectious diseases. We searched MEDLINE and Health Systems Evidence from inception to December 2022. We also hand searched websites of relevant organisations and conducted a forward citation search of the included frameworks. Two reviewers selected studies independently, one reviewer extracted data and one cross-checked for accuracy. We presented the results narratively.ResultsWe included 15 frameworks. Seven had a generic scope and eight were focused on specific topics (immunisation, COVID-19 or other, non-infectious diseases). From the included frameworks, we identified a total of 18 criteria with each framework assessing a median of eight, the most frequent being 'desirable effects', 'resources considerations' and 'feasibility'. We identified infectious disease examples for four frameworks: 'Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation' (GRADE), WHO-INTEGRATe Evidence (WHO-INTEGRATE), 'Ethics, Equity, Feasibility, and Acceptability' (EEFA) and 'Community Preventive Services Task Force' (CPSTF) evidence-to-decision frameworks.ConclusionAlthough several EIDM frameworks exist for public health decision-making, most have not been widely applied to infectious diseases. Current EIDM frameworks inconsistently address factors for public health decision-making. Further application and evaluation, and possibly adaptation of existing frameworks, is required to optimise decision-making in public health and infectious diseases.},
}

Humans
*Public Health/methods
*Decision Making
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Communicable Diseases
*Communicable Disease Control/methods
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40376436,
year = {2025},
author = {Nwabueze, KK and Akubue, N and Onakoya, A and Okolieze, SC and Otaniyen-Igbinoba, IJ and Chukwunonye, C and Okengwu, CG and Ige, T and Alao, OJ and Adindu, KN},
title = {Exploring the prevalence and risk factors of adolescent mental health issues in the COVID and post-COVID era in the U.K.: A systematic review.},
journal = {EXCLI journal},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {508-523},
pmid = {40376436},
issn = {1611-2156},
abstract = {Adolescence is a developmental phase largely characterized by rapid biological and non-biological transformations, with a heightened susceptibility to social and environmental influences. Hence, adolescents are particularly vulnerable to external stressors, underscoring the need to safeguard their well-being and prioritize mental health interventions. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic caused a global crisis with profound societal disruptions, and led to lasting impact on global public health, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including adolescents. In view of the unique developmental challenges faced by adolescents, it is imperative to assess the growing burden of mental health issues exacerbated by the pandemic. This review synthesizes existing evidence on the emerging mental health challenges faced by adolescents in the United Kingdom (UK) as exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, MEDLINE, and SpringerNature databases, resulting in the selection of ten high-quality studies. A thematic analysis of the collected data revealed that depression and anxiety were the most frequently reported mental health conditions among adolescents. These conditions were particularly prevalent among adolescents who were from low-income households, those with pre-existing mental health disorders, adolescents experiencing household conflicts, females, and those who provided self-reported data. Several key risk factors were identified, including family and peer relationships, academic pressures such as examinations and grades, financial constraints within households, and the corruptive influence of social media. The findings underscore the urgency of targeted mental health interventions tailored to the specific needs of adolescents in the U.K. By addressing the identified risk factors, mental health professionals, policymakers, and educators can develop more effective strategies to mitigate the psychological impact of the pandemic on this vulnerable population. This study contributes to the evolving body of literature and emphasizes the need for evidence-based policies to foster overall well-being and resilience in adolescents navigating post-pandemic challenges.},
}

@article {pmid40376405,
year = {2025},
author = {Barroso da Silva, FL and Paco, K and Laaksonen, A and Ray, A},
title = {Biophysics of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein's receptor-binding domain interaction with ACE2 and neutralizing antibodies: from computation to functional insights.},
journal = {Biophysical reviews},
volume = {17},
number = {2},
pages = {309-333},
pmid = {40376405},
issn = {1867-2450},
abstract = {The spike protein encoded by the SARS-CoV-2 has become one of the most studied macromolecules in recent years due to its central role in COVID-19 pathogenesis. The spike protein's receptor-binding domain (RBD) directly interacts with the host-encoded receptor protein, ACE2. This review critically examines computational insights into RBD's interaction with ACE2 and with therapeutic antibodies designed to interfere with this interaction. We begin by summarizing insights from early computational studies on pre-pandemic SARS-CoV-1 RBD interactions and how these early studies shaped the understanding of SARS-CoV-2. Next, we highlight key theoretical contributions that revealed the molecular mechanisms behind the binding affinity of SARS-CoV-2 RBD against ACE2, and the structural changes that have enhanced the infectivity of emerging variants. Special attention is given to the "RBD charge rule", a predictive framework for determining variant infectivity based on the electrostatic properties of the RBD. Towards applying the computational insights to therapy, we discuss a multiscale computational protocol for optimizing monoclonal antibodies to improve binding affinity across multiple spike protein variants, including representatives from the Omicron family. Finally, we explore how these insights can inform the development of future vaccines and therapeutic interventions for combating future coronavirus diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40376360,
year = {2025},
author = {Siddiqui, SL and Manzoor, ZU and Schwartz, G and Laloo, A},
title = {Exploring the COVID-19 Vaccine: New Onset and Exacerbations in Rheumatic Diseases.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82249},
pmid = {40376360},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The COVID-19 vaccine has been substantial in mitigating the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, transmission, and adverse outcomes on a global scale. While the vaccine has been crucial in reducing COVID-19 risks, rheumatological manifestations are rare. These include new-onset conditions and exacerbations of pre-existing disease, which raise important clinical questions. This narrative literature review aims to synthesize findings from 21 studies on the rheumatological outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination, focusing on clinical presentations, risk factors, pathogenesis, laboratory findings, and treatment outcomes. The patients may present with various symptoms, and there can be certain determinants that may predispose the patients to developing these symptoms. The pathogenesis is postulated to be complex, with proposed mechanisms including molecular mimicry and immune dysregulation to explain the onset of rheumatic disease. Both new-onset rheumatological disease and exacerbated rheumatological conditions post-vaccination typically respond well to first-line treatment with glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents. Understanding these findings will help clinicians diagnose, manage, and treat post-vaccination rheumatological conditions more effectively.},
}

@article {pmid40375347,
year = {2025},
author = {Bose, B and Siva Kumar, S},
title = {Economic burden of zoonotic and infectious diseases on livestock farmers: a narrative review.},
journal = {Journal of health, population, and nutrition},
volume = {44},
number = {1},
pages = {158},
pmid = {40375347},
issn = {2072-1315},
mesh = {*Zoonoses/economics/epidemiology ; Animals ; Humans ; *Farmers/statistics & numerical data ; *Livestock ; *Communicable Diseases/economics ; Cattle ; *Cost of Illness ; Dairying/economics ; Developing Countries ; Agriculture/economics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Zoonoses significantly impact human health and agricultural productivity, particularly affecting livestock farmers. In this review, the primary objective was to understand the economic impact of both zoonotic and potential zoonotic diseases.

METHODS: This narrative review synthesises literature from SCOPUS, Web of Science, PUBMED, and Reports, covering articles published between 1970 and 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on articles discussing economic losses due to zoonotic diseases in livestock, while exclusion criteria eliminated non-peer-reviewed works and studies not in English.

RESULTS: A total of 37 articles were analysed, revealing substantial economic impacts from various zoonotic diseases. The study uncovers a dramatic decrease in milk consumption, with some areas experiencing a reduction of up to 64 per cent, causing financial hardship for dairy farmers. Moreover, animal-to-human transmissible diseases like bovine tuberculosis, Rift Valley Fever and mastitis result in significant economic setbacks, especially in developing countries.

CONCLUSION: Addressing economic challenges caused by zoonotic and potential diseases is vital for dairy sector sustainability, particularly in developing nations like India. The study emphasises the need for collaborative efforts from stakeholders, including government officials and researchers. It underlines key challenges and compares economic contexts between countries, advocating increased livestock farmers' awareness of these diseases, improved farming techniques, and training programmes to alleviate the problem.},
}

*Zoonoses/economics/epidemiology
Animals
Humans
*Farmers/statistics & numerical data
*Livestock
*Communicable Diseases/economics
Cattle
*Cost of Illness
Dairying/economics
Developing Countries
Agriculture/economics

@article {pmid40375274,
year = {2025},
author = {Lesnik, T and Hauser-Oppelmayer, A},
title = {Turnover intention among intensive care nurses and the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {Human resources for health},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {23},
pmid = {40375274},
issn = {1478-4491},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *Personnel Turnover/statistics & numerical data ; *Intention ; *Intensive Care Units ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Nursing Staff, Hospital/psychology ; Job Satisfaction ; *Critical Care Nursing ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The shortage of nurses has been an ongoing issue for many decades. An important contributing factor is voluntary turnover. Especially in intensive care (ICU) and critical care units (CCU) with high workloads, high mortality rates and stressful working conditions, the phenomenon has serious consequences. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem. This review examines the factors influencing the intention to leave (ITL) and intention to stay (ITS) among intensive care and critical care nurses and the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The databases PubMed, Wiley, Scopus, APA PsycNet and Web of Science were searched. In addition, a forward search using Google Scholar was carried out. Empirical studies reporting on factors influencing the intention to stay or leave among ICU nurses published from 2000 to 2022 were included. The factors were qualitatively coded in MAXQDA, resulting in an inductive coding frame.

RESULTS: Fifty-four studies, including 51 quantitative, one qualitative, and two mixed methods studies, were included in the review. The analysis of factors influencing the intention to either leave or stay in intensive care can be systematically classified into two categories: organisational factors and individual factors. The category of organisational factors encompasses factors, such as commitment and integration, leadership, professional collaboration and communication. Conversely, the category of individual factors comprises factors, such as professionalism, job satisfaction, mental health and social reasons. The pandemic has exacerbated certain aspects within individual and organisational factors, influencing the intention to leave intensive care. Notably, despite the significant impact of COVID-19, no "new" themes are directly attributable to it.

CONCLUSIONS: The results can help practitioners meet future challenges (maintaining adequate staffing levels in view of the existing shortage of nurses). It is the responsibility of nursing and hospital management to capitalise on the insights of this review. Future research should focus on longitudinal, interventional and qualitative study designs to understand voluntary turnover among ICU nurses.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
*Personnel Turnover/statistics & numerical data
*Intention
*Intensive Care Units
SARS-CoV-2
*Nursing Staff, Hospital/psychology
Job Satisfaction
*Critical Care Nursing
Pandemics

@article {pmid40375203,
year = {2025},
author = {Vallée, A and Arutkin, M and Ceccaldi, PF and Feki, A and Ayoubi, JM},
title = {Long COVID and endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC women's health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {229},
pmid = {40375203},
issn = {1472-6874},
mesh = {Humans ; *Endometriosis/epidemiology/complications ; Female ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {Long COVID conditions entail the persistence of COVID-19-related symptoms for at least eight weeks following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The prevalence of long COVID is estimated to range from 10 to 30% among individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2. Despite its growing impact on healthcare systems, long COVID remains poorly understood. In parallel, endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting around 10% of reproductive-age women, is marked by symptoms such as pelvic pain and infertility. The aim of this study was to assess the association between endometriosis and long COVID. We performed a systematic review of long COVID among endometriosis patients in Pubmed/Medline, Cochran Library and Science Direct databases from inception to August 2023. We independently selected studies, extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and compared endometriosis versus non endometriosis patients for long. Pooled analyses were based on random-effect models, and the I[2] statistic was used to quantify heterogeneity across studies. A total of 2 cross-sectional studies (N = 216,095 participants) were included. The pooled analysis comparing endometriosis to non-endometriosis patients significantly showed association for long COVID (pooled RR = 1.41 [1.31-1.52], I[2] = 29%, p < 0.001). Women, who are disproportionately affected by long COVID, particularly those with endometriosis, may face compounded health challenges. While our findings suggest a possible association between endometriosis and long COVID, the evidence is currently limited to two observational studies. Further research involving diverse populations and robust study designs is needed to confirm this relationship and clarify underlying mechanisms.},
}

Humans
*Endometriosis/epidemiology/complications
Female
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Prevalence

@article {pmid40374879,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, A and Xie, W and Zhang, J},
title = {The synergistic role of viral infection and immune response in the pathogenesis of facial palsy.},
journal = {Journal of neurovirology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40374879},
issn = {1538-2443},
support = {2022K126//Quzhou Municipal Science and Technology Bureau/ ; },
abstract = {Facial palsy refers to facial muscle paralysis and is typically brought about by viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), herpes zoster virus (VZV), and SARS-CoV-2. While significant progress has been achieved in viral facial palsy pathogenesis, mechanisms of viral infection-immunity synergy are yet to be revealed. The authors of this article made an attempt to fill this gap by critically summarizing how viral infection causes inflammation and damage to the facial nerve through an immune response mechanism in the facial palsy pathogenesis. We also summarize the current treatment modalities and their respective efficacies. The article set the conditions under which viral infections caused by HSV-1, VZV, SARS-CoV-2, HIV, and EBV lead to facial paralysis and how the viruses infect the facial nerve, initiate an immune response, and cause nerve death. The impact involved direct viral invasion of neurons, immune evasion and induction of neuroinflammation. The review also discusses the primary role of T cells, B cells and innate immune cells in inducing or relieving the condition. The study emphasizes the need to understand the synergic effect of viral infection and immuneresponse of facial palsy as the foundation of the creation of more potent therapeutic strategies. The paper provides a detailed overview of complex interaction of immuneresponse and viral infection of facial palsy with significant level of importance regarding future research and clinical application.},
}

@article {pmid40374417,
year = {2025},
author = {Cabral, JE and Wu, A and Zhou, H and Pham, MA and Lin, S and McNulty, R},
title = {Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome for inflammatory disease therapy.},
journal = {Trends in pharmacological sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tips.2025.04.007},
pmid = {40374417},
issn = {1873-3735},
abstract = {The NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a megadalton complex implicated in numerous inflammation-driven diseases including COVID-19, Alzheimer's disease, and gout. Although past efforts have focused on inhibiting IL-1β downstream of NLRP3 activation using drugs such as canakinumab, no FDA-approved NLRP3-targeted inhibitors are currently available. MCC950, a direct NLRP3 inhibitor, showed promise but exhibited off-target effects. Recent research has focused on optimizing the sulfonylurea-based MCC950 scaffold by leveraging recent structural and medicinal chemistry insights into the NLRP3 nucleotide-binding and oligomerization (NACHT) domain to improve solubility and clinical efficacy. In addition, oxidized DNA (oxDNA) has emerged as a key inflammasome trigger, and molecules targeting the pyrin domain have shown promise in inhibiting NLRP3 activation. This review discusses the role of NLRP3 in inflammation-related diseases, the status of ongoing clinical trials, and emerging small-molecule therapeutics targeting NLRP3.},
}

@article {pmid40374219,
year = {2025},
author = {Hall Dykgraaf, S and Sunjaya, AP and James, D and Kidd, M},
title = {Access to dental services for children: a scoping review on the impact of COVID-19 and implications for future models of care.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e097256},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-097256},
pmid = {40374219},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Health Services Accessibility ; Child ; *Dental Care for Children/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Australia/epidemiology ; Oral Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic had detrimental effects on routine health and social care as countries instituted widespread public health measures to control transmission of SARS-CoV-2. This affected care delivery for many chronic and non-communicable diseases, including oral health and dental diseases with implications in the postpandemic period.

OBJECTIVES: This scoping review, conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Review guidelines, aims to synthesise evidence regarding the impact of COVID-19 on access to dental services among children and their implications for future models of care, especially for children from low-income families, to inform policy decision making around subsidised dental services in Australia.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Primary studies of any design published between 1 January 2020 and 31 July 2024. Included studies described provision of paediatric dental services, considered components of access or utilisation and were published in English. Excluded studies were those that only evaluated maxillofacial services.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data were extracted using a standardised template in MS Excel then analysed to thematically classify findings based on key areas of impact. Quality assessment of studies was not conducted.

RESULTS: 54 articles from 17 countries were included. Studies identified reductions in service availability and utilisation, including patient and parent-driven demand. Changes to the configuration of services included greater rates of emergency treatment, reductions in use of aerosol-generating procedures and more use of teledentistry, as well as self-management and prevention approaches. Substantial delays to routine dental care, leading to more dental problems and ongoing need, especially untreated dental caries, were observed with a disproportionate impact on socioeconomically disadvantaged and vulnerable children and families.

CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has had pronounced negative effects on the provision of primary and secondary dental care for children around the world. Access to care was affected by disruptions to service availability and by changes in demand for services related to parental anxiety around the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Delays in receipt of routine dental care and changes to oral health behaviours are likely to lead to an increased need for oral health services, with service adaptations needed to ensure this increased demand can be met.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Health Services Accessibility
Child
*Dental Care for Children/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
Australia/epidemiology
Oral Health

@article {pmid40373391,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, X and Li, F and Hobbelen, HS and van Munster, BC and Lamoth, CJ},
title = {Gait parameters and daily physical activity for distinguishing pre-frail, frail, and non-frail older adults: A scoping review.},
journal = {The journal of nutrition, health & aging},
volume = {29},
number = {7},
pages = {100580},
doi = {10.1016/j.jnha.2025.100580},
pmid = {40373391},
issn = {1760-4788},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to gather current knowledge on accurately identifying and distinguishing between non-frail, pre-frail, and frail older adults using gait and daily physical activity (DPA) parameters and/or models that combine gait with DPA parameters in both controlled and daily life environments.

METHODS: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across seven databases using key terms: "frail", "gait or walk", "IMU", and "age". Studies were included if they focused on gait analysis using Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) for walking distances greater than 10 meters. Extracted data included study design, gait and DPA outcomes, walking conditions, and classification model performance. Gait parameters were grouped into four domains: spatio-temporal, frequency, amplitude, and dynamic gait. DPA parameters were synthesized into three categories: postural and transition, variability, and physical activity pattern.

RESULTS: A total of 15 cross-sectional studies involving 2,366 participants met the inclusion criteria. Gait analysis showed (pre)frail individuals had slower, shorter steps with longer stride times compared to non-frail individuals. Pre-frail individuals showed distinct gait patterns in periodicity, magnitude range, and variability. In daily activities, (pre)frail individuals displayed shorter, fragmented walking periods and longer transitions between positions. Walking variation identified pre-frail status, showing progressive decreases from non-frail to frail states. Combined gait and daily physical activity models achieved over 97% accuracy, sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing between groups.

DISCUSSION: This review provides an updated synthesis of the relationship between various gait and/or DPA parameters and physical frailty, highlighting gaps in pre-frailty detection and the variability in measurement protocols. It underscores the potential of long-term, sensor-based monitoring of daily physical activity for advancing pre-frailty screening and guiding future clinical trials. Structured Abstract BACKGROUND: Changes in gait and physical activity are critical indicators of frailty. With advancements in wearable sensor technology, long-term gait analysis using acceleration data has become more feasible. However, the contribution of parameters beyond gait speed, such as gait dynamics and daily physical activity (DPA), in identifying frail and pre-frail individuals remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to gather knowledge on accurately identifying and differentiating physical pre-frail and frail individuals from non-frail individuals using gait parameters alone or models that combine gait and DPA parameters, both in controlled settings and daily life environments.

METHODS: The review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A search strategy incorporating key terms-"frail", "gait or walk", "IMU", and "age"-was applied across seven databases from inception to March 1, 2024. Studies were included if they focused on gait analysis in controlled or daily environments using Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and involved walking distances longer than 10 meters. Data on walking conditions, gait outcomes, classification methods, and results were extracted. Gait parameters were categorized into four domains: spatio-temporal, frequency, amplitude, and dynamic gait. DPA parameters were synthesized into three categories: postural and transition, variability, physical activity pattern.

RESULTS: A total of 15 cross-sectional observational studies met the eligibility criteria, covering 2,366 participants, with females representing 27%-80% of the sample and ages ranging from 60 to 92 years. Regarding gait parameters, (pre)frail individuals exhibited longer stride times, slower walking speeds, shorter steps, and reduced cadence compared to non-frail individuals. In three studies, pre-frail could be distinguished from the non-frail and frail group through gait periodicity, range of magnitude, and gait variability. DPA patterns differed between groups, with (pre)frail individuals showing shorter and more fragmented walking periods, brief walking bouts and longer postural transitions. Walking bout variation (CoV) effectively identified pre-frail status, decreasing 53.73% from non-frail to pre-frail, and another 30.87% from pre-frail to frail. Models combining both gait and DPA parameters achieved the highest accuracy (97.25%), sensitivity (98.25%), and specificity (98.25%) in distinguishing between groups.

DISCUSSION: This scoping review provides an updated overview of the current knowledge and gaps in understanding the relationship between gait parameters across different domains and DPA parameters along with physical frailty. Significant variability in gait measurement methods and protocols complicates direct comparisons between studies. The review emphasizes the need for further research, particularly in pre-frailty screening, and underscores the potential of inertial sensor-based long-term monitoring of daily physical activity for future clinical trials.},
}

@article {pmid40373033,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, L and Bhanushali, T and Huang, Z and Yang, J and Badami, S and Hightow-Weidman, L},
title = {Evaluating Generative AI in Mental Health: Systematic Review of Capabilities and Limitations.},
journal = {JMIR mental health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e70014},
doi = {10.2196/70014},
pmid = {40373033},
issn = {2368-7959},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Mental Health ; *Mental Disorders/therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global shortage of mental health professionals, exacerbated by increasing mental health needs post COVID-19, has stimulated growing interest in leveraging large language models to address these challenges.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aims to evaluate the current capabilities of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) models in the context of mental health applications.

METHODS: A comprehensive search across 5 databases yielded 1046 references, of which 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. The included studies were original research with experimental designs (eg, Turing tests, sociocognitive tasks, trials, or qualitative methods); a focus on GenAI models; and explicit measurement of sociocognitive abilities (eg, empathy and emotional awareness), mental health outcomes, and user experience (eg, perceived trust and empathy).

RESULTS: The studies, published between 2023 and 2024, primarily evaluated models such as ChatGPT-3.5 and 4.0, Bard, and Claude in tasks such as psychoeducation, diagnosis, emotional awareness, and clinical interventions. Most studies used zero-shot prompting and human evaluators to assess the AI responses, using standardized rating scales or qualitative analysis. However, these methods were often insufficient to fully capture the complexity of GenAI capabilities. The reliance on single-shot prompting techniques, limited comparisons, and task-based assessments isolated from a context may oversimplify GenAI's abilities and overlook the nuances of human-artificial intelligence interaction, especially in clinical applications that require contextual reasoning and cultural sensitivity. The findings suggest that while GenAI models demonstrate strengths in psychoeducation and emotional awareness, their diagnostic accuracy, cultural competence, and ability to engage users emotionally remain limited. Users frequently reported concerns about trustworthiness, accuracy, and the lack of emotional engagement.

CONCLUSIONS: Future research could use more sophisticated evaluation methods, such as few-shot and chain-of-thought prompting to fully uncover GenAI's potential. Longitudinal studies and broader comparisons with human benchmarks are needed to explore the effects of GenAI-integrated mental health care.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*COVID-19/psychology
*Mental Health
*Mental Disorders/therapy

@article {pmid40372206,
year = {2025},
author = {Ortiz-Prado, E and Izquierdo-Condoy, JS and Vasconez-Gonzalez, J and López-Cortés, A and Salazar-Santoliva, C and Vargas Michay, AR and Vélez-Paéz, JL and Unigarro, L},
title = {From pandemic onset to present: five years of insights into ARDS caused by COVID-19.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2025.2507207},
pmid = {40372206},
issn = {1747-6356},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has challenged healthcare systems, initially resembling classical ARDS but later recognized as distinct. Unique features such as endothelial injury, microthrombosis, and dysregulated inflammation influenced treatment efficacy. Understanding its evolution is key to optimizing therapy and improving outcomes.

AREAS COVERED: This review synthesizes current evidence on COVID-19-associated ARDS, covering epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical phenotypes, and treatments. It explores the shift from L and H phenotypes to a refined disease model and highlights key therapies, including corticosteroids, immunomodulators, prone positioning, ECMO, and vaccination's impact on severity and ARDS incidence.

EXPERT OPINION: At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in December 2019, uncertainty was overwhelming. Early clinical guidelines relied on case reports and small case series, offering only preliminary insights into disease progression and management. Despite the initial chaos, the scientific community launched an unprecedented research effort, with over 11,000 clinical trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov investigating COVID-19 treatments. Several evidence-based strategies emerged as gold standards for managing COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome, surpassing prior approaches. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global healthcare, reshaped modern medicine, accelerated innovation, and reinforced the essential role of evidence-based practice in critical care and public health policy.},
}

@article {pmid40372091,
year = {2025},
author = {Schentag, J and Penz, K and Vandenberg, H},
title = {Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Acute Care Nurses: An Integrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of advanced nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jan.17057},
pmid = {40372091},
issn = {1365-2648},
abstract = {AIM: To analyse, critique, and synthesise available research to create a unique framework of the impacts of COVID-19 on acute care nurses.

METHODS: Whittemore and Knafl's framework was used to organise this review. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used for quality analysis.

DATA SOURCES: CINAHL, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus and the National Institute of Health COVID-19 database were searched.

RESULTS: Twenty-five articles were included. Impacts on acute care nurses came from changes, access to resources, interrupted relationships, and the virus itself. The outcomes from nurses were categorised as positive, physical, emotional responses, leaving and mental disorders. These outcomes were mediated by making connections, coping, learning and experience, and finding meaning.

CONCLUSION: Nurses working in acute care during COVID-19 were faced with immense stressors in a tumultuous and dangerous time. The vastly negative outcomes were less surprising than the fact nurses were left to find mitigating factors on their own. Given the large attrition from nursing that occurred and is still occurring, health systems that can both lessen the impacts and strengthen the buffering effects of mediating factors may fare better when the next pandemic comes.

IMPLICATIONS: Lessons learned can be used to prepare for future pandemics. Nurses should be at the forefront of all planning whether through education, policy, or research. Having a framework allows for a more comprehensive understanding and provides an underpinning for future action. The possibility for impact spans nurses across the globe who have worked, and who may work, during a pandemic. This framework provides a basis for changes related to pandemic planning throughout nursing domains.

REPORTING METHOD: The researcher has adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. No Patient or Public Contribution.},
}

@article {pmid40371028,
year = {2025},
author = {Devi, S and Yadav, N and Yadav, R},
title = {Nanotechnology-Based Modern Biosensors for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Virus.},
journal = {Indian journal of microbiology},
volume = {65},
number = {1},
pages = {177-188},
pmid = {40371028},
issn = {0046-8991},
abstract = {The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has pointed out the urgent need for rapid and accurate diagnostic tools to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Nanotechnology-based biosensors have emerged as a promising solution due to their high sensitivity, specificity, and speed in detecting biological molecules. This article focuses on the advancements in using nanotechnology for the development of modern biosensors tailored for the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Various nanomaterials, such as quantum dots, metallic nanoparticles, and nanowires, have been harnessed to enhance the performance of biosensors, offering improved detection limits and specificity. Besides this, innovative detection platforms, such as field-effect transistors, surface plasmon resonance, and electrochemical sensors, have revolutionized the landscape of SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. These nanotechnology-based biosensors demonstrate the potential for point-of-care testing, enabling rapid and on-site detection with minimal sample preparation. The scalability, cost-effectiveness, and portability of these biosensors make them suitable for mass screening efforts in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community centers. The development of reliable biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 detection aligns with global efforts to curb the spread of the virus through early identification and containment strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40370972,
year = {2025},
author = {La Torre, F and Meliota, G and Civino, A and Campanozzi, A and Cecinati, V and Rosati, E and Sacco, E and Santoro, N and Vairo, U and Cardinale, F},
title = {Advancing multidisciplinary management of pediatric hyperinflammatory disorders.},
journal = {Frontiers in pediatrics},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1553861},
pmid = {40370972},
issn = {2296-2360},
abstract = {Pediatric hyperinflammatory diseases, including Still's disease, Kawasaki disease (KD), multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), and recurrent pericarditis (RP), represent a spectrum of conditions characterized by immune dysregulation and systemic inflammation. Each disorder exhibits distinct pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical features, yet their overlapping presentations often pose diagnostic challenges. Early and accurate differentiation is critical to mitigate complications such as macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), coronary artery aneurysms, and myocardial dysfunction. This narrative review explores the pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and management of these conditions, emphasizing the utility of advanced biomarkers, imaging modalities, and genetic testing. For Still's disease, the review highlights the transformative role of biologic therapies targeting IL-1 and IL-6 in reducing systemic inflammation and improving outcomes. In KD, timely administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and combination with high-dose steroids in high-risk patients is pivotal for preventing coronary complications. MIS-C, associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, requires tailored immunomodulatory approaches, including corticosteroids and biologics, to address severe hyperinflammation and multiorgan involvement. RP management prioritizes NSAIDs, colchicine, and IL-1 inhibitors to reduce recurrence and corticosteroid dependence. The review advocates for a multidisciplinary approach, integrating standardized diagnostic algorithms and disease-specific expertise to optimize patient care. Future research directions include the identification of predictive biomarkers, exploration of novel therapeutic targets, and development of evidence-based treatment protocols to enhance long-term outcomes in pediatric inflammatory diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40370518,
year = {2025},
author = {Jafari, AS and Mozaffari Nejad, AS and Faraji, H and Abdel-Moneim, AS and Asgari, S and Karami, H and Kamali, A and Kheirkhah Vakilabad, AA and Habibi, A and Faramarzpour, M},
title = {Diagnostic Challenges in Fungal Coinfections Associated With Global COVID-19.},
journal = {Scientifica},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {6840605},
pmid = {40370518},
issn = {2090-908X},
abstract = {The early diagnosis of opportunistic infections is a critical concern for patient care worldwide, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review examines the challenges and advancements in the management and early diagnosis of opportunistic fungal infections, which have become increasingly prominent during the pandemic. Using multiple sources, including curated databases such as PubMed and Scopus, as well as Google Scholar for broader literature searches, we systematically reviewed studies on COVID-19-associated fungal infections, with a focus on candidiasis, mucormycosis, and aspergillosis. The inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed articles, clinical case reports, and cohort studies that discussed diagnostic methods, clinical outcomes, and treatment responses. Data were systematically extracted and analyzed to identify key trends and gaps in current diagnostic practices. Given the significance of opportunistic fungal infections-particularly the selected species-this review provides a comprehensive analysis of diagnostic challenges and advancements in the context of COVID-19 and beyond. Currently, there is no definitive strategy for effectively addressing these opportunistic pathogens, highlighting the need for continued research and innovation. Despite advancements in medical technology, opportunistic fungal infections continue to pose significant challenges to early and accurate diagnosis. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, with secondary fungal infections contributing to increased morbidity and mortality rates. This review highlights the complexities of diagnosing fungal coinfections and emphasizes the urgent need for improved diagnostic strategies. Enhancing the early and accurate detection of these infections is critical for effective patient management, particularly during viral pandemics. Addressing the challenges outlined in this review requires innovative diagnostic approaches to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of opportunistic infections on global healthcare systems.},
}

@article {pmid40370452,
year = {2025},
author = {Shang, Z and Huang, L and Qin, S},
title = {The underlying mechanism behind the different outcomes of COVID-19 in children and adults.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1440169},
pmid = {40370452},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control ; Child ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Adult ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Age Factors ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Cytokines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has affected hundreds of millions of people globally, resulting in millions of deaths. During this pandemic, children have demonstrated greater resistance than adults, exhibiting lower infection rates, reduced mortality, and milder symptoms. Summarizing the differences in resistance between children and adults during COVID-19 can provide insights into protective mechanisms and potential implications for future treatments. In this review, we focused on summarizing and discussing the mechanisms for better protection of children in COVID-19. These protective mechanisms encompass several factors: the baseline expression of cell surface receptor ACE2 and hydrolase TMPRSS2, the impact of complications on COVID-19, and age-related cytokine profiles. Additionally, differences in local and systemic immune responses between children and adults also contribute significantly, particularly interferon responses, heterologous protection from non-COVID-19 vaccinations, and immune status variations influenced by micronutrient levels. The advantageous protection mechanisms of these children may provide insights into the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Importantly, while age-related metabolic profiles and differential COVID-19 vaccine responses may contribute to protection in children, current comparative research remains limited and requires further investigation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control
Child
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Adult
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Age Factors
Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Cytokines/immunology

@article {pmid40369626,
year = {2025},
author = {Batisani, K},
title = {The role of mRNA vaccines in infectious diseases: a new era of immunization.},
journal = {Tropical diseases, travel medicine and vaccines},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {12},
pmid = {40369626},
issn = {2055-0936},
abstract = {The emergence of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines has marked a seminal shift in the field of immunization, heralding an era characterized by unprecedented speed and efficacy in the face of infectious diseases. The global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed the rapid development and deployment of two leading mRNA vaccines, Comirnaty and SpikeVax, showcasing not only the technological promise of mRNA, but also its transformative potential in public health strategies. This study seeks to provide an in-depth exploration of the foundational elements of mRNA vaccine technology, elucidate its unique advantages over traditional vaccine platforms, analyze the existing challenges that public health officials face, and envision future applications that extend far beyond current expectations. Through this exploration, we advocate for the integration of mRNA technology into existing public health frameworks to enhance global health security and adaptability in the face of emerging infectious threats.},
}

@article {pmid40369424,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, T and Liang, T and Zhang, J and Yan, Y and Lu, L and Kuang, L and Wang, C and Xiao, M and Chen, Y and Zhu, B},
title = {Case report of brain death in a child due to COVID-19 and literature review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {700},
pmid = {40369424},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {202201020628//Guangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Project/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; Female ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Brain Death ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Electroencephalography ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Although COVID-19 typically presents with respiratory symptoms, it can also lead to severe neurological manifestations in children. While case reports of COVID-19-associated encephalopathy (including acute necrotizing encephalopathy) have increasingly appeared, gaps remain regarding optimal management strategies and outcome predictors for children with rapid-onset neurological decline. This report aims to underscore the critical need for standardized clinical approaches to severe pediatric COVID-19-related encephalopathy.

METHODS: In this case report, We detail the case of an 8-year-old girl who presented with fever, rash, headache, and recurrent seizures. Her diagnostic workup included polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for SARS-CoV-2 and a range of neurological assessments: contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) to evaluate structural changes, transcranial Doppler ultrasound to assess intracranial hemodynamics, and electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor electrical activity. Intensive therapeutic measures-encompassing mechanical ventilation, hemodynamic support, antimicrobial agents, and corticosteroids-were initiated. In addition, a targeted narrative literature review of pediatric COVID-19-associated neurological complications was conducted to contextualize this presentation.

RESULTS: The patient tested positive for COVID-19;imaging revealed brain edem, and EEG suggested brain death. Despite aggressive critical care interventions, her condition did not improve, ultimately resulting in brain death. Our review of current literature revealed several reported instances of acute necrotizing encephalopathy in pediatric COVID-19, highlighting a growing body of evidence on the potential for severe central nervous system sequelae.

CONCLUSION: This case highlights the importance of early recognition and close neurological surveillance in pediatric patients with COVID-19. Although accumulating evidence describes COVID-19-related neurological complications such as acute necrotizing encephalopathy, uncertainties persist regarding definitive treatment protocols and long-term outcomes. Greater understanding of the underlying mechanisms and standardized management pathways is imperative to improve prognosis in this vulnerable population.

CLINICAL TRIAL: Not applicable.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
Female
Child
SARS-CoV-2
*Brain Death
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Electroencephalography

@article {pmid39438198,
year = {2025},
author = {Warrayat, A and Ali, A and Waked, J and Tocci, D and Speth, RC},
title = {Assessment of the therapeutic potential of salubrinal for ME/CFS and long-COVID.},
journal = {Trends in molecular medicine},
volume = {31},
number = {5},
pages = {466-478},
doi = {10.1016/j.molmed.2024.10.001},
pmid = {39438198},
issn = {1471-499X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Thiourea/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/drug therapy ; *Cinnamates/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19/complications ; Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quality of Life ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic debilitating condition with no cure that shares commonality with long-COVID. This review examines current understanding of long-COVID symptoms, characteristics of the affected population, the connection with ME/CFS, and the potential for salubrinal, an agent known for its influence on cellular stress pathways, to mitigate these disorders It also describes the historical development and mechanism of action of salubrinal, to mitigate endoplasmic reticulum (ER)/cellular stress responses, that could potentially contribute to symptom improvement in both ME/CFS and long-COVID patients. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to advance our understanding of the potential role of salubrinal in improving the quality of life for individuals with long-COVID-related ME/CFS symptoms as well as ME/CFS patients.},
}

Humans
*Thiourea/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/drug therapy
*Cinnamates/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19/complications
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2
Quality of Life
Animals

@article {pmid40369415,
year = {2025},
author = {Zulu, JM and Silumbwe, A and Munakampe, M and Chavula, MP and Mulubwa, C and Sirili, N and Zulu, W and Michelo, C and Tetui, M},
title = {A scoping review of the roles, challenges, and strategies for enhancing the performance of community health workers in the response against COVID-19 in low- and middle-income countries.},
journal = {BMC primary care},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {163},
pmid = {40369415},
issn = {2731-4553},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Community Health Workers/standards/organization & administration ; *Developing Countries ; *Professional Role ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Global concerns regarding effective response strategies to the COVID-19 pandemic arose amid the swift spread of the virus to low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. Although LMICs instituted several measures to mitigate spread of the virus in low resource settings, including task shifting certain demand and supply functions to community actors such as community health workers (CHWs), there remains a lack of synthesized evidence on these experiences and lessons. This scoping review sought to synthesize evidence regarding the roles and challenges faced by CHWs during the fight against COVID-19, along with strategies to address these challenges.

METHODOLOGY: We systematically searched several major electronic databases including PubMed, HINARI, Cochrane Library (Reviews and Trials), Science Direct and Google Scholar for relevant literature. The search strategy was designed to capture literature published in LMICs on CHWs roles during COVID-19 period spanning 2019-2023. Two researchers were responsible for retrieving these studies, and critically reviewed them in accordance with Arksey and O'Malley scoping review approach. In total, 22 articles were included and analysed using Clarke and Braun thematic analysis in NVivo 12 Pro Software.

RESULTS: Community health workers (CHWs) played a vital role during the COVID-19 pandemic. They engaged in health promotion and education, conducted surveillance and contact tracing, supported quarantine efforts, and maintained essential primary health services. They also facilitated referrals, advocated for clients and communities, and contributed to vaccination planning and coordination, including tracking and follow-up. However, CHWs faced significant challenges, including a lack of supplies, inadequate infection prevention and control measures, and stigma from community members. Additionally, they encountered limited supportive policies, insufficient remuneration and incentives. To enhance CHWs' performance, regular training on preventive measures is essential. Utilizing digital technology, such as mobile health, can be beneficial. Establishing collaborative groups through messaging platforms and prioritizing access to COVID-19 vaccines are important steps. Additionally, delivering wellness programs and providing quality protective equipment for CHWs are crucial for their effectiveness.

CONCLUSION: The study found that CHWs are vital actors within the health system during global pandemics like COVID-19. This entails the need for increased support and investment to better integrate CHWs into health systems during such crises, which could ultimately contribute to sustaining the credibility of CHWs programs and foster more inclusive community health systems (CHSs).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Community Health Workers/standards/organization & administration
*Developing Countries
*Professional Role
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40368586,
year = {2025},
author = {Isaia, HA and Clerici, NJ and Brandelli, A},
title = {Bacillus lipopeptides as versatile antimicrobial weapons: looking toward antiviral activity.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/07388551.2025.2499152},
pmid = {40368586},
issn = {1549-7801},
abstract = {Viral outbreaks are a topic of worldwide concern, resulting in a significant impact in health systems, a large number of deaths, and huge economical losses. The damage caused by Covid-19 has further highlighted the importance of prospecting for new molecules that can be applied in the prevention and treatment of viral infections. Many studies describe the remarkable antimicrobial activity of lipopeptides produced by Bacillus spp., especially against fungi and bacteria. However, research regarding the antagonistic effects on viruses is less frequent. Despite that, the antiviral activity of lipopeptides produced by Bacillus spp. has been demonstrated, indicating that these molecules could be potential candidates to control viral diseases. In this article, a compilation of reports with consistent data regarding the antiviral effect of Bacillus lipopeptides and the mechanisms involved in this process are presented. Moreover, the immunomodulatory role and toxicity profile of these molecules are discussed. Bacillus lipopeptides may exert an indirect antiviral effect, since they are able to positively induce humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Moreover, their antiviral effect was observed in vitro and in vivo at nontoxic concentrations, offering a safe perspective for possible clinical application of these molecules. Finally, the challenges related to optimization and increasing production yield are addressed. This is the first critical review dedicated exclusively to antiviral activity of Bacillus lipopeptides.},
}

@article {pmid40368428,
year = {2025},
author = {Landry, V and Matschek, J and Pang, R and Munipalle, M and Tan, K and Boruff, J and Li-Jessen, NYK},
title = {Audio-based digital biomarkers in diagnosing and managing respiratory diseases: a systematic review and bibliometric analysis.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {34},
number = {176},
pages = {},
pmid = {40368428},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; Bibliometrics ; Biomarkers ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/physiopathology ; Asthma/diagnosis/therapy/physiopathology ; *Wearable Electronic Devices ; },
abstract = {Advances in wearable sensors and artificial intelligence have greatly enhanced the potential of digitised audio biomarkers for disease diagnostics and monitoring. In respiratory care, evidence supporting their clinical use remains fragmented and inconclusive. This study aimed to assess the current research landscape of digital audio biomarkers in respiratory medicine through a bibliometric analysis and systematic review (PROSPERO CRD 42022336730). MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and CINAHL were searched for references indexed up to 9 April 2024. Eligible studies evaluated the accuracy of sound analysis for diagnosing and managing obstructive (asthma and COPD) or infectious respiratory diseases, excluding COVID-19. A narrative synthesis was conducted, and the QUADAS-2 tool was used to assess study quality and risk of bias. Of 14 180 studies, 81 were included. Bibliometric analysis identified fundamental (e.g. "diagnostic accuracy"+"machine learning") and emerging (e.g. "developing countries") themes. Despite methodological heterogeneity, audio biomarkers generally achieved moderate (60-79%) to high (80-100%) accuracies. 80% of studies (eight out of ten) reported high sensitivities and specificities for asthma diagnosis, 78% (seven out of nine) reported high sensitivities and 56% (five out of nine) reported high specificities for COPD, and 64% (seven out of eleven) reported high sensitivity or specificity values for pneumonia diagnosis. Breathing and coughing were the most common biomarkers, with artificial neural networks being the most common analysis technique. Future research on audio biomarkers should focus on testing their validity in clinically diverse populations and resolving algorithmic bias. If successful, digital audio biomarkers hold promise for complementing existing clinical tools in enabling more accessible applications in telemedicine, communicable disease monitoring, and chronic condition management.},
}

Humans
Bibliometrics
Biomarkers
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/physiopathology
Asthma/diagnosis/therapy/physiopathology
*Wearable Electronic Devices

@article {pmid40367933,
year = {2025},
author = {Shang, S and Zhang, B and Wu, B and Dou, Y and Zhang, L and Sun, W},
title = {The efficacy of hemoperfusion in severe COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Blood purification},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-33},
doi = {10.1159/000546256},
pmid = {40367933},
issn = {1421-9735},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to conduct a meta analysis and systematic review to assess the efficacy of the hemoperfusion in patients with severe COVID-19.

DATA SOURCES: A comprehensive search for candidate publications was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase.

STUDY SELECTIONS: Studies investigating the effect of hemoperfusion on mortality among severe COVID-19 patients were selected, including randomized controlled trials(RCTs), non-randomized controlled trials, and observational studies with control groups. The primary endpoint was the longest reported mortality, while the secondary endpoints were the length of stay, ICU stay, P/F ratio, and CRP.

DATA EXTRACTION: The Cochrane test (Q) and Isquare (I2) test were used to quantify heterogeneity among the studies. The fixedeffect model (Mantel-Haenszel method) would be selected when there is no heterogeneity (P > 0.10 and I2 < 50%), whereas the randomeffect model (DerSimonian-Laird method) was used in obvious heterogeneity (P ≤ 0.10 and I2 ≥ 50%). Data are presented as risk ratio(RR); 95% confidence intervals(CIs); p values; I2.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Of the 127 articles retrieved, 14 were selected for this study including 405 patients in the HP group and 518 patients in the control group. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between the hemoperfusion and the control groups (RR 0.81 95%CI[0.71, 0.93]; p = 0.15 > 0.05; I2 = 68.2%). The results of the subgroup analysis of hemoperfusion with HA series indicated a reduction in the mortality of patients with COVID-19 (RR 0.60 [0.46, 0.78]; p < 0.0001; I2 =0.0%). The hemoperfusion (HP) group had a longer length of stay compared with the control group (WMD 5.25[2.53, 7.97]days; p < 0.05; I2 = 28.0%), but not the ICU stay (ES 1.33[-2.86, 5.53]days; p = 0.53; I2 = 85.5%). After hemoperfusion, the P/F ratio (WMD 95.79[74.46, 117.12]mmHg; p < 0.05; I2 = 5.8%) increased, while CRP (WMD -44.03[-68.97, -19.09]mg/L; p < 0.05; I2 = 86.9%) decreased.},
}

@article {pmid40366930,
year = {2025},
author = {Mateus, LCO and Correa, JR and Almeida, PE},
title = {Extracellular Vesicles in COVID-19: Mechanistic insights and emerging therapeutic strategies.},
journal = {Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias},
volume = {97},
number = {2},
pages = {e20241216},
doi = {10.1590/0001-3765202520241216},
pmid = {40366930},
issn = {1678-2690},
mesh = {Humans ; *Extracellular Vesicles/virology/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19/therapy/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Exosomes ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global health, driven in part by the high mutation rate of SARS-CoV-2, which has resulted in the emergence of variants with enhanced transmissibility, virulence, and immune evasion capabilities. This evolving threat highlights the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies, as current treatments have shown limited efficacy. In this context, Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) present a promising alternative. EVs play a crucial role in intercellular communication and offer advantages due to their biocompatibility and mechanisms of cellular entry as viruses, making them an important tool against SARS-CoV-2. One of the principal immune evasion strategies employed by SARS-CoV-2 involves the release of EVs capable of transporting viral antigens. Numerous studies have suggested the role of exosomes and microvesicles as carriers of viral components, indicating that EVs can be targets in the progression of infection. Exosomes derived from infected cells could function as biomarkers and as potential drug delivery vehicles. Furthermore, EVs play a regulatory role in immune responses, facilitating cytokine production and antigen presentation. This review aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the involvement of EVs in SARS-CoV-2 infection, examine their implications for biomarker development and explore their potential therapeutic applications in COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Extracellular Vesicles/virology/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19/therapy/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Exosomes

@article {pmid40366711,
year = {2025},
author = {Vu, PD and Abdi, S},
title = {Post-acute sequelae SARS-CoV-2 infection and neuropathic pain: a narrative review of the literature and future directions.},
journal = {Pain management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/17581869.2025.2501521},
pmid = {40366711},
issn = {1758-1877},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Neuropathic pain is a recognized and debilitating symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection across acute, post-acute, and long-COVID phases. Initially emerging as acute or subacute symptoms, these neuropathic manifestations can evolve into chronic conditions, with approximately 10% of all SARS-CoV-2 cases (estimated 65 million individuals globally) developing post-acute SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) neuropathic sequalae. Given the limited literature specifically addressing neuropathic pain related to PASC, a deeper understanding is needed to improve management and reduce patient burden.

RECENT FINDINGS: PASC symptoms are associated with disease severity, elevated body mass indexes, preexisting psychological conditions, and addiction history. Sex differences appear to influence prevalence, and the multisystem nature of PASC complicates symptom presentation, with mood disorders, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction contributing to altered pain perception. Proposed mechanisms include immune dysregulation, persistent viral protein effects, and neuroanatomical changes. Management typically involves a multimodal approach.

SUMMARY: This review examines SARS-CoV-2 neuropathic pain across the illness trajectory, examining its pathophysiology, prevalence, and treatment. It highlights the potential for subacute neuropathic symptoms to become chronic and calls for future research to refine long-term management strategies and assess broader healthcare implications.},
}

@article {pmid40366294,
year = {2025},
author = {Sheikhi, RA and Heidari, M and Noorbakhsh, S and Sarpiri, MR},
title = {The COVID-19 Pandemic and the Role of Tele-Nursing in Reducing Bed Occupancy: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Florence Nightingale journal of nursing},
volume = {33},
number = {},
pages = {1-10},
pmid = {40366294},
issn = {2687-6442},
abstract = {AIM: This systematic review examines the tele-nursing methods used during the coronavirus disease-2019 outbreak to manage the increase in patient numbers and investigates strategies for reducing hospital bed occupancy.

METHOD: The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The primary databases used to search the literature were PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. One hundred sixty eight articles have been reviewed. The keywords for this review included "Coronavirus Disease 2019," "tele-nursing," and "bed occupancy." Equivalent terms were derived from Medical Subject Headings and expert opinions and extracted from related articles.

RESULTS: Out of the 168 records identified through the initial database search, seven articles were ultimately included in the final stage of this review after a thorough analysis of their features and content to address the study questions. The results of this systematic review, based on the content analysis of the selected studies, reveal various approaches used worldwide to manage the influx of patients in hospitals due to COVID-19 infection. The findings also highlight strategies employed to reduce bed occupancy, along with the challenges faced in implementing telenursing. The results are summarized into three main themes: current care models, challenges in establishing telenursing, and strategies to decrease bed occupancy.

CONCLUSION: Tele-nursing and virtual care are crucial for reducing bed occupancy during disasters like coronavirus disease 2019. Creating communication infrastructure, developing distance education through virtual space, licensing the private sector to run tele-nursing, clarifying the medical and legal responsibilities of telehealth, developing protocols of care, community education, and using new technology for remote consultation are ways to facilitate tele-nursing and reduce hospital bed occupancy.},
}

@article {pmid40365983,
year = {2025},
author = {Romantowski, J and Gawinowska, M and Trzonkowski, P and Niedoszytko, M},
title = {Can Labs Help With Vaccination? In Vitro Tests in Diagnosis of Allergy to COVID-19 Vaccines-A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Immunity, inflammation and disease},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {e70206},
pmid = {40365983},
issn = {2050-4527},
support = {//The article was prepared as part of the course Clinical Research Scholars Programme conducted by Harvard Medical School in 2023/2024 funded by Medical Research Agency (Poland, Warsaw)./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; *Drug Hypersensitivity/diagnosis/immunology ; Immunoglobulin E/blood/immunology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic in 2019, vaccinations have proven to be a key strategy in disease prophylaxis. Although vaccines are safe from the perspective of the general population, hypersensitivity reactions have still been described, causing individuals to be reluctant in their vaccination decision. Since the description of first reports of COVID-19 vaccine allergy, many protocols of allergy work-up have been developed, including In Vitro and In Vivo tests. Although In Vivo tests were more accessible, many patients preferred In Vitro tests that would not involve contact with the allergen and be safe. This applied in particular to patients that had experienced a severe delayed hypersensitivity reaction in which In Vivo tests were highly limited and provocations were deemed high risk. Taking into account these circumstances, In Vitro tests might significantly enhance allergy work-up.

METHODS: National Center for Biotechnology Information (Pubmed) database was searched in May 2024 for articles on In Vitro diagnostic methods for COVID-19 vaccine allergy and hypersensitivity.

RESULTS: This article describes the In Vitro tests developed to date in the diagnosis of COVID-19 vaccine hypersensitivity: (1) analysis of specific IgE and IgG, (2) Basophil Activation Test, (3) Histamine Release Test, (4) IgM-dependent complement activation, (5) Lymphocyte Transformation Test, (6) Flow cytometry T-Cell markers, (7) Th1/Th2 cytokines concentration in cell culture.

CONCLUSIONS: The article highlights the tests' advantages, flaws and possible clinical applications.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccination/adverse effects
*Drug Hypersensitivity/diagnosis/immunology
Immunoglobulin E/blood/immunology

@article {pmid40365256,
year = {2025},
author = {Olson, KO and Patel, S and Pathak, P and Kelly, LP and Antony, MA and Thiriveedi, M},
title = {Cutaneous small vessel vasculitis in the COVID-19 era: a systematic review.},
journal = {Skin health and disease},
volume = {5},
number = {2},
pages = {114-123},
pmid = {40365256},
issn = {2690-442X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dermatological adverse effects may occur after COVID-19 infection or vaccine administration. Since the beginning of the pandemic, several case reports and systematic reviews have been published on vasculitis associated with both COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Fever, malaise, urticaria, and rash are common symptoms of COVID-19. These symptoms can also occur as adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines. However, the occurrence of serious autoimmune reactions due to COVID-19 infection or its vaccine is rare. Cutaneous small vessel vasculitis (CSVV) is an autoimmune disorder that manifests with palpable purpura and petechiae involving the extremities. It results from neutrophilic inflammation within and around dermal vessels and is usually self-limited.

OBJECTIVE: We provide a thorough systematic review on CSVV occurring in the COVID-19 era.

METHODS: We followed the PRISMA 2020 checklist for systematic review, searching PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and Embase. We included case reports, case series, correspondence articles, and letters to the editor written in English. Characteristics of each were then summarized and analyzed.

RESULTS: 39 cases were included in our review - 27 due to the COVID-19 vaccine and 12 due to COVID-19 infection. Mean age of onset was similar, but mean time to onset was sooner in the vaccination group. Common treatments included systemic steroids, and almost all patients experienced complete recovery with the exception of a few patients in the COVID-19 infection cohort.

CONCLUSION: While most cases are self-limiting and resolve with no long-term sequalae, the occurrence of more severe reactions appears to be associated with COVID-19 infection rather than with vaccination.},
}

@article {pmid40364089,
year = {2025},
author = {Moustakli, E and Stavros, S and Michaelidis, TM and Potiris, A and Christodoulaki, C and Zachariou, A and Drakakis, P and Zikopoulos, K and Domali, E and Zikopoulos, A},
title = {Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Women's Reproductive Health and Its Association with Autoimmune Diseases, Including Multiple Sclerosis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm14093057},
pmid = {40364089},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Concern over COVID-19's long-term influence on women's reproductive health is growing, with emerging research suggesting potential links to ovarian dysfunction, menstrual irregularities, fertility challenges, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Post-viral immune dysregulation is linked to both the development and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Long COVID has been associated with immunological dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and chronic inflammation, all of which may worsen autoimmune disorders and reproductive health issues. Long COVID is characterized by symptoms persisting for weeks or months beyond the acute infection phase. There are indications that prolonged COVID may contribute to autoimmune disease development through mechanisms such as immune hyperactivation, molecular mimicry, and dysregulated cytokine responses. Although this research field is still emerging, growing evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection may have lasting effects on women's health, highlighting the need for further studies into its underlying mechanisms and long-term clinical outcomes. This review compiles recent findings on the long-term impact of COVID-19 on women's reproductive health and its potential association with autoimmune disorders, particularly MS.},
}

@article {pmid40363817,
year = {2025},
author = {He, W and Cui, J and Wang, XY and Siu, RHP and Tanner, JA},
title = {Early-Stage Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis: Serum Biomarkers and the Potential for Aptamer-Based Biosensors.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30092012},
pmid = {40363817},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {17163416//General Research Fund (GRF) grants/ ; 17127515//General Research Fund (GRF) grants/ ; 17102318//General Research Fund (GRF) grants/ ; SST/118/20GP//Innovation and Technology Commission Public Sector Trial Scheme for the Prevention and Con-trol of COVID-19 in Hong Kong "COVID-19 Point-of-Care Diagnostics in Saliva: an Ap-tamer-Mediated Approach"/ ; 104006067//HKU Seed Funding for Translational and Applied Research 2020/21 "Digital Diagnostics Using CRISPR-Enabled Nucleic Acid Probe Platform"/ ; 109001358//HKU Seed Funding for Translational and Applied Research 2023/24 "Development of an organic electrochemical transistor-based electrochemical aptamer biosensor"/ ; T12-201/20-R//Hong Kong University Grants Council Theme-based Research Scheme/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Pancreatic Neoplasms/diagnosis/blood ; *Biomarkers, Tumor/blood ; *Biosensing Techniques/methods ; *Aptamers, Nucleotide/chemistry ; *Early Detection of Cancer/methods ; },
abstract = {Pancreatic cancer has a high mortality rate, and both the incidence and mortality are continuing to increase in many countries globally. The poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer is in part due to the challenges in early diagnosis. Improving early-stage pancreatic cancer diagnosis would improve survival outcomes. Aptamer-based biosensors provide an alternative technological approach for the analysis of serum biomarkers with several potential advantages. This review summarizes the major pancreatic cancer serum biomarkers, as well as discusses recent progress in biomarker exploration and aptasensor development. Here, we review both established and novel serum biomarkers identified recently, emphasizing their potential for early-stage pancreatic cancer diagnosis. We also propose strategies for further expanding multiplex biomarker panels beyond the established CA19-9 biomarker to enhance diagnostic performance. We discuss technological advancements in aptamer-based sensors for pancreatic cancer-related biomarkers over the last decade. Optical and electrochemical sensors are highlighted as two primary modalities in aptasensor design, each offering unique advantages. Finally, we propose steps towards clinical application using aptamer-based sensors with multiplexed biomarker detection for improved pancreatic cancer diagnostics.},
}

Humans
*Pancreatic Neoplasms/diagnosis/blood
*Biomarkers, Tumor/blood
*Biosensing Techniques/methods
*Aptamers, Nucleotide/chemistry
*Early Detection of Cancer/methods

@article {pmid40362439,
year = {2025},
author = {da Silva, FPG and Matte, R and Wiedmer, DB and da Silva, APG and Menin, RM and Barbosa, FB and Meneguzzi, TAM and Pereira, SB and Fausto, AT and Klug, L and Melim, BP and Beltrão, CJ},
title = {HIF-1α Pathway in COVID-19: A Scoping Review of Its Modulation and Related Treatments.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {40362439},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; Humans ; *COVID-19/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Signal Transduction ; Pandemics ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Inflammation/metabolism ; *Coronavirus Infections/metabolism/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, driven by SARS-CoV-2, has led to a global health crisis, highlighting the virus's unique molecular mechanisms that distinguish it from other respiratory pathogens. It is known that the Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1α (HIF-1α) activates a complex network of intracellular signaling pathways regulating cellular energy metabolism, angiogenesis, and cell survival, contributing to the wide range of clinical manifestations of COVID-19, including Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS). Emerging evidence suggests that dysregulation of HIF-1α is a key driver of systemic inflammation, silent hypoxia, and pathological tissue remodeling in both the acute and post-acute phases of the disease. This scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and registered in INPLASY. It involved a literature search in Scopus and PubMed, supplemented by manual reference screening, with study selection facilitated by Rayyan software. Our analysis clarifies the dual role of HIF-1α, which may either worsen inflammatory responses and viral persistence or support adaptive mechanisms that reduce cellular damage. The potential for targeting HIF-1α therapeutically in COVID-19 is complex, requiring further investigation to clarify its precise role and translational applications. This review deepens the molecular understanding of SARS-CoV-2-induced cellular and tissue dysfunction in hypoxia, offering insights for improving clinical management strategies and addressing long-term sequelae.},
}

*Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
Humans
*COVID-19/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Signal Transduction
Pandemics
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Inflammation/metabolism
*Coronavirus Infections/metabolism/drug therapy

@article {pmid40362357,
year = {2025},
author = {Zajac, D and Jampolska, M and Wojciechowski, P},
title = {Molecular Hydrogen in the Treatment of Respiratory Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {40362357},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hydrogen/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/drug therapy ; Animals ; Antioxidants/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Molecular hydrogen is gaining increasing attention as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic agent. Once considered an inert gas, it reveals current therapeutic potential among others in inflammatory diseases, cancer, and sports medicine, among others. The present review aims to provide a consistent summary of the findings of the last twenty years on the use of molecular hydrogen in major respiratory diseases, including allergies, asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, lung injury of various origins, as well as cancer and infections of the respiratory tract. In addition, the basic mechanisms through which molecular hydrogen exercises its biological activity on the respiratory system are described.},
}

Humans
*Hydrogen/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/drug therapy
Animals
Antioxidants/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy

@article {pmid40362344,
year = {2025},
author = {Naidoo, P and Naicker, T},
title = {A Disintegrin and Metalloprotease with Thrombospondin Motif, Member 13, and Von Willebrand Factor in Relation to the Duality of Preeclampsia and HIV Infection.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {40362344},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *ADAMTS13 Protein/metabolism/genetics/blood ; *Pre-Eclampsia/metabolism/blood ; *von Willebrand Factor/metabolism/genetics ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *HIV Infections/metabolism/blood ; COVID-19/metabolism/complications ; Thrombosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Normal pregnancy is associated with multiple changes in the coagulation and the fibrinolytic system. In contrast to a non-pregnant state, pregnancy is a hypercoagulable state where the level of VWF increases by 200-375%, affecting coagulation activity. Moreover, in this hypercoagulable state of pregnancy, preeclampsia is exacerbated. ADAMTS13 cleaves the bond between Tyr1605 and Met1606 in the A2 domain of VWF, thereby reducing its molecular weight. A deficiency of ADAMTS13 originates from mutations in gene or autoantibodies formed against the protease, leading to defective enzyme production. Von Willebrand protein is critical for hemostasis and thrombosis, promoting thrombus formation by mediating the adhesion of platelets and aggregation at high shear stress conditions within the vessel wall. Mutations in VWF disrupts multimer assembly, secretion and/or catabolism, thereby influencing bleeding. VWF is the primary regulator of plasma ADAMTS13 levels since even minute amounts of active ADAMTS13 protease have a significant inhibitory effect on inflammation and thrombosis. VWF is released as a result of endothelial activation brought on by HIV infection. The SARS-CoV-2 infection promotes circulating proinflammatory cytokines, increasing endothelial secretion of ultra large VWF that causes an imbalance in VWF/ADAMTS13. Raised VWF levels corresponds with greater platelet adhesiveness, promoting a thrombotic tendency in stenotic vessels, leading to increased shear stress conditions.},
}

Humans
*ADAMTS13 Protein/metabolism/genetics/blood
*Pre-Eclampsia/metabolism/blood
*von Willebrand Factor/metabolism/genetics
Pregnancy
Female
*HIV Infections/metabolism/blood
COVID-19/metabolism/complications
Thrombosis
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40361168,
year = {2025},
author = {Piotr, L and Aleksandra, Z and Adam, C and Katarzyna, OW and Damian, W and Cezary, W and Rafał, K},
title = {Viral infection and its impact on fertility, medically assisted reproduction and early pregnancy - a narrative review.},
journal = {Reproductive biology and endocrinology : RB&E},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {68},
pmid = {40361168},
issn = {1477-7827},
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *Reproductive Techniques, Assisted/trends ; *Fertility/physiology ; *Virus Diseases/complications ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology ; Male ; COVID-19/complications ; Pregnancy Outcome ; *Infertility/virology/therapy/etiology ; },
abstract = {Viral infections can significantly affect the physiopathology of reproductive organs, leading to fertility problems, reducing the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies, and negatively impacting pregnancy. This review aims to summarize the current evidence on viral pathogens that are either suspected or confirmed to play a role in reproductive medicine and their effects on early pregnancy. For instance, viral hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus can decrease sperm quality. Human papilloma virus infection in men appears to cause infertility, while herpesviruses pose a greater risk to fetuses rather than to fertility. The Zika virus disrupts early embryo development, necessitating a delay in conception for those suspected or confirmed to be infected. The effects of SARS-CoV-2 on reproduction are still unclear. Rubella and cytomegalovirus can cause serious congenital defects, making pre-conception screening essential, and a Rubella vaccine is recommended. More rigorous studies are needed to clarify the roles of various infectious agents, enhance fertility treatments, and improve pregnancy outcomes while reducing complications.},
}

Humans
Pregnancy
Female
*Reproductive Techniques, Assisted/trends
*Fertility/physiology
*Virus Diseases/complications
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology
Male
COVID-19/complications
Pregnancy Outcome
*Infertility/virology/therapy/etiology

@article {pmid40361091,
year = {2025},
author = {Khoshmaram, N and Gholipour, K and Farahbakhsh, M and Tabrizi, JS},
title = {Strategies and challenges for maintaining the continuity of essential health services during a pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {691},
pmid = {40361091},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; *Continuity of Patient Care/organization & administration ; Leadership ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant impact on health systems worldwide, resulting in disruptions to essential health service delivery, such as routine immunizations, maternal and child health, and treatment for communicable and noncommunicable diseases. These services have been disrupted due to the diversion of resources towards the COVID-19 response. Therefore, the objective of this scoping review was to identify the strategies and challenges associated with maintaining the continuity of essential health services during a pandemic.

METHODS: This scoping review study was conducted in 2023 using the proposed Arksey and O'Malley framework. We conducted searches on PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Web of Science using relevant keywords. Additionally, we searched Google Scholar, hand-searched reference lists of included studies, and reviewed organizational reports, websites, and other sources of information. Content analysis was employed to summarize the themes from the selected articles.

RESULTS: Our search of major databases yielded 3,732 results. After the screening process, 47 articles were included in the scoping review. The extracted interventions were classified into six groups based on the building blocks of the World Health Organization health system: leadership and governance, access to essential medicines, health systems financing, the health workforce, health service delivery, and health information systems.

CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of effective strategies and interventions can help ensure the provision of essential health services during a pandemic. These strategies include leveraging technology for remote care, ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and patients, strengthening supply chains, and establishing flexible and adaptive healthcare systems.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
*Continuity of Patient Care/organization & administration
Leadership

@article {pmid40043585,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, PH and Lee, CH and Yen, WT and Lee, CC and Jhou, HJ and Wu, CS and Lin, WY},
title = {Efficacy and safety of prone positioning in patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO): A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical anesthesia},
volume = {103},
number = {},
pages = {111786},
doi = {10.1016/j.jclinane.2025.111786},
pmid = {40043585},
issn = {1873-4529},
mesh = {Humans ; *Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/methods/adverse effects ; Prone Position ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/mortality ; Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; *Patient Positioning/methods/adverse effects ; COVID-19/therapy ; Length of Stay/statistics & numerical data ; Survival Rate ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung condition characterized by diffuse alveolar damage and hypoxemia. Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (vv-ECMO) supports gas exchange and reduces ventilator-induced injury, while prone positioning (PP) improves oxygenation by optimizing ventilation-perfusion matching.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, following PRISMA guidelines, using MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Studies included were on adult ARDS patients undergoing vv-ECMO with PP. Outcomes measured were survival rates, ECMO weaning, duration of ECMO support, mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital stays, and complications.

RESULTS: Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria. While ECMO+PP improved 30-day and hospital survival rates, there was no significant improvement in 60-day survival, 90-day survival, ICU survival, or ECMO weaning rates. ECMO+PP significantly enhanced oxygenation parameters and reduced PaCO2 levels. Earlier and more frequent PP sessions shortened mechanical ventilation and ICU stays. Non-COVID patients had better 30-day survival with ECMO+PP than COVID patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Combining PP with ECMO improves early but not long-term survival in severe ARDS, especially in non-COVID patients, while extending duration of mechanical support and stays. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings.},
}

Humans
*Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/methods/adverse effects
Prone Position
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/mortality
Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data/methods
Treatment Outcome
*Patient Positioning/methods/adverse effects
COVID-19/therapy
Length of Stay/statistics & numerical data
Survival Rate

@article {pmid39788527,
year = {2025},
author = {Wittmann, FG and Luppa, M and Höhn, A and Wege, N and Ascone, L and Lohse, L and Hurlemann, R and Meisenzahl, E and Lambert, M and Bajbouj, M and von Lilienfeld-Toal, M and Riedel-Heller, SG},
title = {[Rapid Assessment of Future Pandemic Effects in Individuals with Severe Mental Illness: Can Ongoing Population-Representative Cohorts Contribute?].},
journal = {Psychiatrische Praxis},
volume = {52},
number = {4},
pages = {226-230},
doi = {10.1055/a-2500-2379},
pmid = {39788527},
issn = {1439-0876},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Germany ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology/psychology/diagnosis ; *Pandemics ; Forecasting ; Cohort Studies ; Anxiety Disorders/epidemiology/psychology/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {To provide an overview of ongoing cohorts including severely mentally ill patients to study collateral effects of pandemics.Systematic literature search.None of the ongoing German health cohorts includes people with severe mental illness (SMI). Four cohorts include individuals with severe depressive and anxiety symptoms.German population-representative cohorts do not make a significant contribution to the rapid detection of future pandemic effects in individuals with SMI. Care-based patient cohorts seem better suitable for generating insights into the protection of this vulnerable group under pandemic conditions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Germany
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology/psychology/diagnosis
*Pandemics
Forecasting
Cohort Studies
Anxiety Disorders/epidemiology/psychology/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SETTING: Healthcare settings including care homes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SETTING: We included studies conducted in community settings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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