@article {pmid40405557,
year = {2025},
author = {Gasmi, M and Hejazi, M and Muscella, A and Marsigliante, S and Sharma, A},
title = {Aging-associated changes in immunological parameters: Implications for COVID-19 immune response in the elderly.},
journal = {Physiological reports},
volume = {13},
number = {10},
pages = {e70364},
doi = {10.14814/phy2.70364},
pmid = {40405557},
issn = {2051-817X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Aging/immunology ; Aged ; *Immunosenescence ; Immunity, Innate ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Cytokines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Aging has a profound impact on the immune system, leading to a gradual decline in its function and increased systemic inflammation, collectively known as immunosenescence and inflammaging. These changes make older adults more susceptible to infections, including COVID-19, and contribute to worse clinical outcomes, such as higher morbidity and mortality rates. This review explores immunological changes associated with aging, including impaired innate immune responses, reduced T- and B-cell function, and altered cytokine profiles. A comprehensive literature search identified relevant studies on the topic, and inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing age-related immune changes and their impact on responses to COVID-19. The findings underscore the need for targeted healthcare strategies to mitigate the negative effects of aging on immunity and improve immune resilience, and ultimately clinical outcomes and quality of life for this vulnerable population.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Aging/immunology
Aged
*Immunosenescence
Immunity, Innate
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Cytokines/immunology

@article {pmid40405251,
year = {2025},
author = {Lüdecke, LT and Ekman, B and Arunda, MO and Bulamba, R and Daama, A and Ekström, AM and Kyasanku, E and Larsson, EC and Nkale, J and Sundewall, J},
title = {Effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on unintended pregnancies among adolescent girls and young women in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review.},
journal = {Reproductive health},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {89},
pmid = {40405251},
issn = {1742-4755},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Adolescent ; Pregnancy ; *Pregnancy, Unplanned ; Developing Countries ; Young Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Child ; *Pregnancy in Adolescence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic involved various lockdown measures, including school closures, which significantly impacted young populations, particularly in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). Given the well-known protective effect of regular school attendance on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), reports of disrupted education, compromised SRHR, and an increase in unintended pregnancies among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW 10-24 years) have caused major concerns. We conducted a scoping review to compile the available evidence of the impact of COVID-19 lockdown measures on unintended pregnancies among AGYW aged 10-24 in LMICs.

METHODS: The scoping review followed the five-stage framework by Arksey and O´Malley. A systematic search on two comprehensive databases, using search terms related to COVID-19 and unintended pregnancies, was conducted along with grey literature searches of articles in English language published between 2019 and 2024. The systematic review software Covidence was used for publication screening, selection and data extraction.

RESULTS: After deduplication, 241 publications were screened, and 72 full-text publications were assessed for eligibility. 13 publications from the database searches, citation searching and grey literature, were included. The scoping review included seven studies that applied quantitative methods, four that used qualitative approaches and the remaining two mixed methods. Five out of 13 publications were set in Uganda, two in Kenya and two in Nigeria, while six other countries were represented once. All included studies reported increases in pregnancies among AGYW during the COVID-19 period. School dropout among girls following a pregnancy was reported to have increased. Factors associated with unintended pregnancy were school closures, limited access to SRHR services including contraceptives, and increasing sexual encounters.

CONCLUSION: School closures and other lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in unintended pregnancies among AGYW in LMICs. The long-term consequences for these young individuals, their communities and to the broader society are still to be measured and available evidence is limited, few studies have applied robust study designs, and several relied on small sample sizes. Further research is needed to build a stronger evidence base for health and socio-economic impacts of school closures and lockdowns among young people.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Adolescent
Pregnancy
*Pregnancy, Unplanned
Developing Countries
Young Adult
SARS-CoV-2
Child
*Pregnancy in Adolescence

@article {pmid40405221,
year = {2025},
author = {Gabriel, KMA and Schröder, C and Wolf, R and Bolm-Audorff, U and Kienast, C and Smolinska, J and Petereit-Haack, G and Seidler, A},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 infection risk by non-healthcare occupations: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of occupational medicine and toxicology (London, England)},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {17},
doi = {10.1186/s12995-025-00462-9},
pmid = {40405221},
issn = {1745-6673},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, several industries were deemed essential. However, information on infection risk in occupational settings outside of healthcare workers and medical staff (HCWs) remain scarce. Thus, a systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to compile the risk of infection to SARS-CoV-2 in non-healthcare workers (non-HCWs).

METHODS: We screened three databases (EMBASE, PubMed, medRχiv) for studies on SARS-CoV-2 infection risk in working population. Several stages of severity (infection, hospitalisation, admission to intensive care unit (ICU), mortality) were eligible. Occupational specifications were harmonised according to the German classification of professions (KldB). All reported risk estimators were considered. Studies were analysed for their risk of bias. Results of random-effects meta-analyses were assessed for their evidence according to GRADE. Subgroup analyses were run for 'outcome', 'comparison group', and 'risk of bias'.

RESULTS: Of 9,081 publications identified, 25 were recognised as eligible, mainly describing the first year of the pandemic. For 20 occupations, we were able to carry out meta-analyses on KldB-4-level by integrating all stages of severity. Nine occupations were identified with a statistically significantly increased risk of infection for SARS-CoV-2, four of which had a relative risk (RR) of > 2: Occupations in meat processing (RR = 3.58 [95%-CI 1.46; 8.77]), occupations in building cleaning services (RR = 2.55 [95%-CI 1.51; 4.31]), occupations in cargo handling (RR = 2.52 [95%-CI 2.27; 2.79]) and cooks (RR = 2.53 [95%-CI 1.75; 3.67]). The certainty of evidence of eight results was found moderate or high.

CONCLUSIONS: The first systematic review and meta-analysis of occupational SARS-CoV-2 infection risk in occupations other than HCWs revealed a considerably elevated risk in individual related services as well as in commercial services.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42021297572.},
}

@article {pmid40405092,
year = {2025},
author = {Seo, YB and Choi, YJ and Seo, JW and Kim, EJ and Lee, J and Song, JY},
title = {Therapeutic options for the treatment of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {731},
pmid = {40405092},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {HD22C2045//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/therapy ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Hyperbaric Oxygenation ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This scoping review aimed to summarize the available studies to address the question of which therapeutic agents can be utilized for patients with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).

METHODS: We conducted a systematic search in medical databases, including PubMed and Embase, for studies aligned with our objectives published between January 1, 2020, and July 22, 2024. For each study, we summarized the main symptoms targeted, study design, therapeutic regimens, evaluation tools, and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS: A total of 413 studies were identified, and 39 studies were included in this review based on relevance to the research objectives. We primarily focused on high-level evidence studies, such as meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials, but observational studies were included when evidence was scarce. Therapeutic agents evaluated included hyperbaric oxygen, ivermectin, metformin, naltrexone, micronutrient supplements, antifibrotic agents, antiviral agents, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Among these, hyperbaric oxygen, antifibrotic agents, antiviral agents, and SSRIs demonstrated promising results. However, the heterogeneity of PASC symptoms posed challenges in synthesizing findings for specific symptom-based outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Given the heterogeneity of symptoms, this review highlights the need for standardized and targeted research to better address the diverse therapeutic needs of patients with PASC.

CLINICAL TRIAL: Not applicable.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/therapy
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Hyperbaric Oxygenation

@article {pmid40404571,
year = {2025},
author = {Pagani, W and Buysse, T and Dua, KS},
title = {Digital platforms, virtual reality, and augmented reality in gastrointestinal endoscopy training.},
journal = {Clinical endoscopy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.5946/ce.2024.354},
pmid = {40404571},
issn = {2234-2400},
abstract = {Remote training in procedural tasks has experienced robust growth in recent years, spurred by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic to meet the need for basic and continued skills development, including in gastrointestinal endoscopy. Remote endoscopy training offers learners the opportunity for skill acquisition, real-time feedback, and access to experts from around the world, and gives mentors the ability to educate trainees without the need to travel themselves. Remote training can be cost-effective but requires reliable technology and continuous assessment to ensure training quality. Ethical and legal issues related to patient safety may also exist. Training using virtual or augmented reality, on the other hand, does not involve patients and, hence, has no patient safety, legal, or ethical issues. Multiple endoscopic scenarios, from basic to advanced, can be practiced multiple times with immediate feedback on performance. These innovations are expected to not only increase individual endoscopy skills but also expand access to specialized care in remote areas, either in the same country or in underserved regions of the world. This review describes various techniques in remote endoscopy training with associated advantages and drawbacks and analyzes research outcomes on the effectiveness of remote endoscopy training.},
}

@article {pmid40404415,
year = {2025},
author = {Sanghera, IS and Lawes-Wickwar, S},
title = {Barriers and facilitators to the uptake and delivery of routine childhood immunisations during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.},
journal = {The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners},
volume = {75},
number = {suppl 1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3399/bjgp25X742269},
pmid = {40404415},
issn = {1478-5242},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Parents/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Health Services Accessibility ; Infant ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; Child ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Childhood vaccination remains one of the most effective public health interventions worldwide in reducing infant mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic required creative approaches to continue the delivery of vaccination clinics.

AIM: To understand the barriers and facilitators to the continuation of, and access to, community-based childhood vaccination clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHOD: A systematic search strategy was conducted in January 2023 to identify articles published between 1 January 2020 and 16 January 2023 describing barriers and facilitators for healthcare professionals and parents. Two reviewers independently screened study eligibility and assessed quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

RESULTS: 6 studies: 5 mixed-methods and 1 qualitative, were included in the review. 4 studies surveyed parents (barriers/facilitators to vaccine uptake), and 2 studies interviewed healthcare professionals (barriers/facilitators to vaccine delivery).The findings were categorised into 3 main barriers: parent/carer awareness of vaccine service continuation, risk of contracting COVID-19 and GP administrative issues. Two common facilitators identified included: robust call-recall and opportunistic recommendations from clinicians.

CONCLUSION: The most commonly reported barriers were parents believing vaccine clinics were closed and safety concerns around contracting COVID-19. Public health messages, co-designed with patients, can consider being deployed to encourage parents to bring their children back to vaccination clinics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Parents/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
*Health Services Accessibility
Infant
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
Child
COVID-19 Vaccines

@article {pmid40402366,
year = {2025},
author = {Ramzan, N and Butt, H and Azeem, M and Hanif, M and Mahmood, K and Rehman, S and Shahwar, D and Zeeshan, M and Ahmad, QU and Jabeen, M},
title = {Therapeutic applications of quercetin-metallic complexes: a review.},
journal = {Biometals : an international journal on the role of metal ions in biology, biochemistry, and medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40402366},
issn = {1572-8773},
abstract = {Flavonoids, especially quercetin, are widely recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and anti-tumor properties, but their clinical application is limited by poor permeability. Different techniques of permeability enhancement of quercetin, i.e., preparation of phytosomes, conjugation with glucose, and interaction of piperine, are reported extensively, but formation of metal complexes is considered more precise and reliable. This review focuses on research conducted on the chelation of quercetin with metals, i.e., copper (II), zinc (II), iron and ruthenium. In-vitro and in-vivo therapeutic activities, biomedical applications of metal/quercetin inclusion complexes and discussions of stability concerns of quercetin alone and its metallic complexes. Conjugation of metals with quercetin augments its potential to the next level. Numerous studies revealed that quercetin/copper (Q/Cu) and quercetin/zinc (Q/Zn) can become efficacious candidates in acute myeloid leukaemia, orthopaedics and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infection.},
}

@article {pmid40402311,
year = {2025},
author = {Omidi, A and Zolfaghari, A and Mirab, SM and Bafghi, MH and Khosravi, M and Safdari, F and Shirani, K},
title = {Mapping the complexity of multiple sclerosis: a novel perspective on genetic, environmental, and neurobiological insights.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {484},
pmid = {40402311},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {Humans ; *Multiple Sclerosis/genetics/etiology/pathology ; Risk Factors ; Blood-Brain Barrier/metabolism ; COVID-19/complications ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Dysbiosis/complications ; },
abstract = {Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that mainly affects young adults. MS is a neuroinflammatory disease traditionally classified as an autoimmune disorder; however, its exact cause remains unknown. A wide variety of etiology and risk factors have been proposed to contribute, among which genetics and environment are the leading ones. The heterogeneity of MS can be attributed to a variety of factors, including diverse pathobiological mechanisms. In this narrative review, before discussing the most prevalent etiologies of MS and risk factors, we look at the main neurobiological pathways, blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, and glymphatic system dysfunction. Several intrinsic factors, including genetics and epigenetic implications, hormones, immune system dysregulation, age, and microbiome, have definite roles in developing and worsening MS severity. However, external factors like viruses, bacteria, bioclimate impacts, environmental toxins, lifestyle factors, stress, and psychological factors revealed different or controversial impacts on MS disease. On the other hand, some nascent ones, such as intestinal dysbiosis and COVID-19, need to be further experimentally and clinically investigated. Both may contribute to MS by promoting inflammation and triggering autoimmune responses. Although it assumes that more than one factor contributes to MS development, finding the leading underlying cause and, consequently, the probable involvement mechanisms certainly could help take appropriate, efficient, and personalized therapeutic strategies.},
}

Humans
*Multiple Sclerosis/genetics/etiology/pathology
Risk Factors
Blood-Brain Barrier/metabolism
COVID-19/complications
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Dysbiosis/complications

@article {pmid40402161,
year = {2025},
author = {Zambianchi, JK and Benegra, M},
title = {GABAergic receptors and essential oils in anxiety and depression: a scientometric analysis.},
journal = {Natural product research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1080/14786419.2025.2505610},
pmid = {40402161},
issn = {1478-6427},
abstract = {This review aims to map and analyse scientific production on the effect of essential oils and their isolated compounds on GABAergic receptors with a focus on the treatment of anxiety and depression. Publications were selected from the Web of Science following the PRISMA guidelines from October 1945 to March 2024. Analysis of publication trends, geographic distribution, keywords, and influential articles was carried out using the CiteSpace and Bibliometrix tools. The results indicate that research on the topic is a recent trend, with only eight articles published before 2003 and a significant increase in publications during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The main areas of interest were Medicinal Chemistry, Plant Sciences, and Integrative and Complementary Medicine, with Brazil and China leading the publications. The study also highlights a growing interest in scientifically validating natural therapies for safer and more effective treatment options.},
}

@article {pmid40402076,
year = {2025},
author = {Kohake, K and Henning, L and Dahl, S and Neuber, N and Dreiskämper, D},
title = {Associations between physical activity and health-related factors in childhood and adolescence during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of sports sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-24},
doi = {10.1080/02640414.2025.2508041},
pmid = {40402076},
issn = {1466-447X},
abstract = {Today, there is clear evidence that the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic influenced not only the physical activity (PA) behaviour of children and adolescents but also different health parameters. This study aimed at analysing the relationship between PA and health in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. A systematic review in accordance with PRISMA was conducted. In April 2022, studies were searched for in nine electronic databases. Overall, 58 papers investigating more than 80,000 children and adolescents from 26 countries met full inclusion criteria. Studies examined the associations between PA and psychological health (n = 45), physical health (n = 13), social health (n = 12), general health (n = 1), and health-related habits (i.e. sleep, nutrition, screen time; n = 17). Most studies demonstrated strong evidence for relationships between PA and psychological health. Mostly positive correlations also emerged regarding the relation of PA and physical as well as social health. PA is also associated with other health-related behaviours, with screen time having an exceptional role during the pandemic. This review indicates that PA and health are associated largely even during the changed conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies are needed that focus on the causality of these relationship between PA and health by including studies with longitudinal designs.},
}

@article {pmid40401810,
year = {2025},
author = {Mora, AC and Mace, CR},
title = {Standardization of Microsampling Technologies for Accurate Sensing and Reliable Diagnostics.},
journal = {ACS sensors},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acssensors.5c00667},
pmid = {40401810},
issn = {2379-3694},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the debilitating effect of overreliance on centralized sampling and testing, and generated significant momentum to investigate and validate sample types that are alternatives to the gold standard (e.g., anterior nasal vs nasopharyngeal swabs). As a result, sample collection is trending away from traditional methods at centralized health care facilities and toward at-home or point-of-care settings with devices that enable self-collection. With shifts away from regulated environments and trained personnel, it is important to remember that reliable measurements begin with standardized sample collection. To develop microsampling technologies for applications where the outcome can impact health care decisions, it is critical to (i) fully understand the sample collected (e.g., volume, composition, biological factors) and (ii) implement engineering controls for users and clinical workflow integration (e.g., usability, volume metering) to ensure precision and accuracy of a measurement. Blood sampling, once exclusively performed via venipuncture, has made the greatest strides toward remote collection with the introduction of lancet- and microneedle-based, capillary microsampling devices. However, challenges remain toward standardizing these methods, such as ensuring that measurements are hematocrit-independent. Other sample types (e.g., nasal fluid, saliva) face similar hurdles. In this Perspective, we review the current state of self-collection microsampling technologies and highlight the need to develop tools that can (i) standardize sample collection and (ii) seamlessly integrate with current clinical workflows. Ultimately, we advocate for continued innovation as technologies that support self-collection have the potential to greatly improve the diagnostic process for patients, reduce the burden on health care workers, and advance the shift toward decentralized testing.},
}

@article {pmid40401130,
year = {2025},
author = {Ray, H and Khatum, J and Haldar, S and Bhowmik, P},
title = {Second brain: reviewing the gut microbiome's role in lifestyle diseases.},
journal = {Biotechnologia},
volume = {106},
number = {1},
pages = {103-122},
pmid = {40401130},
issn = {2353-9461},
abstract = {The recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted another silent pandemic: lifestyle diseases. Conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, and type 2 diabetes (T2D), are increasingly becoming public health threats, affecting even younger populations worldwide. In recent years, extensive research has uncovered the pivotal role of the human gut microbiome in various aspects of human physiology, including metabolism, cellular homeostasis, immune defense, and disease development. The gut microbiome, often referred to as the "second brain," is now recognized as a key player in health and disease. Lifestyle factors such as diet, mental health, stress, exercise, and others significantly influence the composition of the gut microbiome. Imbalances in this composition, termed "dysbiosis," have been linked to a wide range of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, T2D, asthma, and neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. These findings underscore the profound influence of gut microbiome health on overall well-being. A working understanding of the gut microbiome's composition and its impact on disease processes is crucial for the advancement of personalized or precision medicine. This review article aims to explore recent advancements in the field, shedding light on how the gut microbiome contributes to the development and prognosis of lifestyle diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40084813,
year = {2025},
author = {Davidson, SM and Andreadou, I and Antoniades, C and Bartunek, J and Basso, C and Brundel, BJJM and Byrne, RA and Chiva-Blanch, G and da Costa Martins, P and Evans, PC and Girão, H and Giricz, Z and Gollmann-Tepeköylü, C and Guzik, T and Gyöngyösi, M and Hübner, N and Joner, M and Kleinbongard, P and Krieg, T and Liehn, E and Madonna, R and Maguy, A and Paillard, M and Pesce, M and Petersen, SE and Schiattarella, GG and Sluijter, JPG and Steffens, S and Streckfuss-Bömeke, K and Thielmann, M and Tucker, A and Van Linthout, S and Wijns, W and Wojta, J and Wu, JC and Perrino, C},
title = {Opportunities and challenges for the use of human samples in translational cardiovascular research: a scientific statement of the ESC Working Group on Cellular Biology of the Heart, the ESC Working Group on Cardiovascular Surgery, the ESC Council on Basic Cardiovascular Science, the ESC Scientists of Tomorrow, the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions of the ESC, and the Heart Failure Association of the ESC.},
journal = {Cardiovascular research},
volume = {121},
number = {5},
pages = {702-729},
doi = {10.1093/cvr/cvaf023},
pmid = {40084813},
issn = {1755-3245},
support = {ANR-20-CE14-0013-01//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; 00107048//Fondation de France/ ; //Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation/ ; //Fondation Pierre Mercier Pour la Science/ ; FF19110//Swiss Heart Foundation/ ; //Italian Ministry of Health/ ; 2020YRETTX_003//Italian Ministry of University and Research/ ; //National Center for Gene Therapy and Drugs/ ; E63C22000940007//EU- NextGenerationEU/ ; //German Research Foundation/ ; SFB/CRC 1470/A07//Collaborative Research Center/ ; PI21/00637//Spanish Ministry of Health/ ; //Instituto de Salud Carlos III/ ; 471241922//European Regional Development Fund/ ; 2020-1.1.5-GYORSÍTÓSÁV//Ministry for Innovation and Technology in Hungary/ ; RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00003//Research Excellence Programme/ ; //National Heart Laboratory, Hungary/ ; //European Union/ ; VEKOP-2.3.2-16-2016-00002//National Research, Development and Innovation Office of Hungary/ ; K_21-139105//Hungarian National Scientific Research Fund/ ; FKZ 81Z0600205//German Ministry of Research and Education/ ; 725229//EVICARE/ ; AdG788970//European Union Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program/ ; 2019-202666//Chan Zuckerberg Foundation/ ; 16CVD03//Leducq Foundation/ ; SP/19/1/34461//Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung/ ; //NIH/ ; 2020-2020B003//Dutch Heart Foundation/ ; NWA.1389.20.157//NWA-ORC project CIRCULAR NWO/ ; //Oxford NIHR BRC/ ; 965286//EU/ ; 104688/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; //Acute Multidisciplinary and Interventional Centre/ ; 320030_215035/SNSF_/Swiss National Science Foundation/Switzerland ; PNRR-MR1-2022-12376858//Italian Ministry of University and Research/ ; CN00000041//Italian Ministry of University and Research/ ; 2020-1.1.5-GYORSÍTÓSÁV-2021-00011//Ministry for Innovation and Technology in Hungary/ ; TKP2021-EGA//Ministry for Innovation and Technology in Hungary/ ; TKP2021-EGA-23//Ministry for Innovation and Technology in Hungary/ ; VEKOP-2.3.3-15-2017-00016//National Research, Development and Innovation Office of Hungary/ ; /ERC_/European Research Council/International ; SFB-1470-B03//European Union Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program/ ; /BHF_/British Heart Foundation/United Kingdom ; NHS AI 02443//EU/ ; 02013//EU/ ; 104688/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Translational Research, Biomedical/standards/methods ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/pathology/therapy/physiopathology/genetics/metabolism ; *Cardiology/standards ; Consensus ; Biomarkers ; },
abstract = {Animal models offer invaluable insights into disease mechanisms but cannot entirely mimic the variability and heterogeneity of human populations, nor the increasing prevalence of multi-morbidity. Consequently, employing human samples-such as whole blood or fractions, valvular and vascular tissues, myocardium, pericardium, or human-derived cells-is essential for enhancing the translational relevance of cardiovascular research. For instance, myocardial tissue slices, which preserve crucial structural and functional characteristics of the human heart, can be used in vitro to examine drug responses. Human blood serves as a rich source of biomarkers, including extracellular vesicles, various types of RNA (miRNA, lncRNA, and circRNAs), circulating inflammatory cells, and endothelial colony-forming cells, facilitating detailed studies of cardiovascular diseases. Primary cardiomyocytes and vascular cells isolated from human tissues are invaluable for mechanistic investigations in vitro. In cases where these are unavailable, human induced pluripotent stem cells serve as effective substitutes, albeit with specific limitations. However, the use of human samples presents challenges such as ethical approvals, tissue procurement and storage, variability in patient genetics and treatment regimens, and the selection of appropriate control samples. Biobanks are central to the efficient use of these scarce and valuable resources. This scientific statement discusses opportunities to implement the use of human samples for cardiovascular research within specific clinical contexts, offers a practical framework for acquiring and utilizing different human materials, and presents examples of human sample applications for specific cardiovascular diseases, providing a valuable resource for clinicians, translational and basic scientists engaged in cardiovascular research.},
}

Humans
*Translational Research, Biomedical/standards/methods
*Cardiovascular Diseases/pathology/therapy/physiopathology/genetics/metabolism
*Cardiology/standards
Consensus
Biomarkers

@article {pmid40400892,
year = {2025},
author = {Ferrer, G and Valerio-Pascua, F and Alas-Pineda, C and Gaitán-Zambrano, K and Pavón-Varela, DJ},
title = {Intranasal Chlorpheniramine for Early Symptomatic Treatment of COVID-19 and the Impact on Long-COVID.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82736},
pmid = {40400892},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {This review explores the therapeutic potential of intranasal chlorpheniramine maleate (iCPM) in managing both acute COVID-19 and Long COVID by integrating histamine H1 receptor antagonism and bitter taste receptor (T2R) activation. Current literature on histamine-mediated inflammation, T2R activation, and the dual-action mechanisms of iCPM were analyzed. Emphasis was placed on its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and mucosal immunity-enhancing properties. iCPM demonstrates significant efficacy in addressing acute COVID-19 symptoms by inhibiting histamine-mediated inflammatory pathways and reducing cytokine storms. As a T2R agonist, it enhances mucosal immunity through nitric oxide production, mucociliary clearance, and antimicrobial peptide synthesis, reducing viral replication and supporting respiratory health. Additionally, iCPM shows promise in mitigating persistent symptoms of long COVID, including fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory dysfunction, by addressing chronic inflammation and residual viral activity. The integration of H1 receptor antagonism and T2R activation positions iCPM as a novel dual-target therapy for respiratory infections. Its localized delivery and broad mechanism of action make it a promising candidate for managing both the acute and chronic phases of COVID-19. Future research should focus on large-scale clinical trials and personalized approaches based on genetic variations in T2R pathways.},
}

@article {pmid40400658,
year = {2025},
author = {Moteki, Y},
title = {Research Trends and Structural Characteristics of Healthcare Research in Japan, Including the First Half of the New Coronavirus Spread Period: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {e84197},
pmid = {40400658},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis to characterize the trends and research features of health administration in Japan, in terms of themes and structural aspects, such as institutional affiliations, up to the early stages of the spread of the new coronavirus. Literature data were obtained from the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) database, using the search formula (Healthcare[Title/Abstract] AND Japan[Title]), and the dataset was obtained on March 15, 2025. The total number of data points analyzed was 1066. Research trends, such as the characteristics of themes based on KeyWords Plus (Clarivate, Philadelphia, USA) and their changes, and the academic structure focusing on the country of origin, institutional affiliations, and publication journals, were quantitatively analyzed using the bibliometrics tools in the R package (Biblioshiney interface) for literature up to 2021, when the impact of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) became pronounced in Japan. The KeyWords Plus analysis revealed a substantial research emphasis on healthcare human resources, and confirmed an increase in COVID-19-related research around 2020, when the impact of the novel coronavirus infection spread in Japan. Notably, the results of the bibliometric analysis highlight the aspect that healthcare human resources was one of the main focuses of the study area. However, limitations of textmining methods were observed in the export function of the CiNii database (National Institute of Informatics, Tokyo, Japan), which comprehensively collects articles written in Japanese. In order to grasp research trends in the field of healthcare in Japan, regardless of language, it is necessary to enhance multilingual support in Japanese academic information databases and develop an international academic information database (such as Web of Science, Scopus, OpenAlex, etc.) to expand the scope of collection.},
}

@article {pmid40398892,
year = {2025},
author = {Petu, A and Masresha, B and Wiysonge, CS and Mwenda, J and Nyarko, K and Bwaka, A and Wanyoike, S and Mboussou, F and Impouma, B and Usman, A and Olu, OO and Gasasira, AN and Cabore, JW and Moeti, MR},
title = {Reflections on 50 years of immunisation programmes in the WHO African region: an impetus to build on the progress and address the unfinished immunisation business.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {10},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2024-017982},
pmid = {40398892},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunization Programs/organization & administration/history ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Africa/epidemiology ; World Health Organization ; SARS-CoV-2 ; History, 21st Century ; History, 20th Century ; },
abstract = {Immunisation is crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for maternal and child mortality reduction. As Africa marks the 50th anniversary of implementing immunisation programmes, it is imperative to review progress, address challenges and strategise for the future. Using available programme data, this article examines the progress made in achieving the immunisation milestones in the region, describes the success factors and lessons learnt and makes recommendations on how to immunise every African child in the coming years. The article concludes that despite significant improvements in childhood immunisation coverage, the region still falls short of global targets, with disparities across countries. Contributing factors include, among others, weak health systems, rapid population growth without corresponding increases in service delivery, vaccine hesitancy, inadequate sustainable financing and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Moving forward, efforts to attain the global immunisation coverage milestones should focus on building on the past progress, addressing the COVID-19 setbacks, leveraging new technologies and securing sustainable immunisation funding. This can be achieved by accelerating the implementation of the Immunization Agenda 2030 and the Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization commitments. The support of all stakeholders including political leaders, public health professionals, the vaccine industry, regional organisations, academia, donors and healthcare workers is essential for this noble endeavour.},
}

Humans
*Immunization Programs/organization & administration/history
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Africa/epidemiology
World Health Organization
SARS-CoV-2
History, 21st Century
History, 20th Century

@article {pmid40398621,
year = {2025},
author = {R, SS and S, X and Temitope, O and Woo, AK and Othman, A and Yung-Tsi, B and Larisa, B and Jenni, B and Caitrin, B and Min, C and M, DS and Najla, EJ and Mehdi, H and Mary, H and H, HA and Samantha, J and Michelle, K and J, LS and Amy, M and M, PK and C, PM and Waleska, P and Rachel, P and Doug, R and Wael, S and E, SH and Patricia, S and Eileen, T and Alexis, V and Rebecca, V and J, AJ and E, SB and Mariam, AJ},
title = {Current Activity Trends and Outcomes in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy - A report from the CIBMTR.},
journal = {Transplantation and cellular therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtct.2025.05.014},
pmid = {40398621},
issn = {2666-6367},
abstract = {The Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) compiles annual summary slides describing trends in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and cellular therapy (CT) practice and outcomes. This year's report includes all patients receiving their first autologous and/or allogeneic HCT/CT in the United States between 2013 and 2023 or chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) from 2016 and 2023, reported to CIBMTR. Relative proportion of allogeneic and autologous HCT/CT was generated as percentage of total for donor type and for patient age, disease indication, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis, and race and ethnicity. Causes of death were summarized using frequencies, and the Kaplan-Meier estimator was used for estimating overall survival. New for this year, disease risk stratification reflects European LeukemiaNet cytogenetic risk score for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Use of allogeneic HCT increased substantially in 2023, recovering from a decline in activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, with growth predominately in the 65-74 year-old age group. Overall, matched unrelated donors (MUD) continue as the most common allogeneic donor source (45%) followed by haploidentical related donors (Haplo) (21%), matched related donors (MRD) (18%), mismatched unrelated donors (MMUD) (12%) and cord blood (Cord) (3%). These trends hold in the adult patient population with a notable doubling of MMUD utilization since 2020 driven by the rapid shift to post-transplant cyclophosphamide based GVHD prophylaxis (PTCy) in this setting. In the pediatric setting, Haplo was the most common donor source surpassing MRD use in 2023 followed by MUD, Cord and MMUD. Autologous HCT continued to decline slightly while use of CAR-T therapy has rapidly increased since commercial approval in 2017 with lymphoma and multiple myeloma reaching 45% and 16%, respectively in 2023. Significant recent changes in GVHD prophylaxis in the adult allogeneic HCT setting have occurred. PTCy is most common in Haplo HCT with >90% since 2016. Among other donor sources, the most rapid adoption is in MMUD HCT at 82% in 2023. In MRD and MUD, PTCy use differs by conditioning intensity with RIC/NMA higher (58% and 64%, respectively), reflecting the standard of care established by BMT CTN 1703, compared to MAC (43% and 46%, respectively). In pediatrics, calcineurin inhibitor ± others remains the most common GVHD prevention strategy for MRD (88%) and MUD (68%). Although common in the pediatric Haplo HCT setting at 68% in 2023, use of PTCy is less common across other mismatched donor types where use of abatacept or ex-vivo T cell depletion/CD34 selection accounts for 28% and 17% in MMUD, respectively. Three-year overall survival continues to significantly improve among patients receiving allogeneic (62.1% vs 55.8%) and autologous (82.6% vs 79.6%) HCT when comparing HCT from 2017-2022 versus 2012-2016 (p<0.001), respectively. In both the adult and pediatric settings, primary cause of mortality after 100 days post-HCT remains primary disease in both allogeneic (47% and 45%, respectively) and autologous (60% and 79%, respectively). HCT/CT and CAR-T use continues to grow. Relapse remains the primary cause of death in the malignant setting supporting further efforts to mitigate risk.},
}

@article {pmid40398109,
year = {2025},
author = {Sekar, P and Ashok Kumar, A and Hughes, I and Mason, R and Dzienis, M},
title = {The safety of extended dosing pembrolizumab when compared to traditional dosing: A review and meta-analysis of retrospective studies.},
journal = {Lung cancer (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {204},
number = {},
pages = {108585},
doi = {10.1016/j.lungcan.2025.108585},
pmid = {40398109},
issn = {1872-8332},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: To minimise healthcare exposure in the COVID 19 era, 6-weekly extended dosing pembrolizumab became widely accepted as an alternative to 3-weekly dosing based on modelling studies. A review and meta-analysis were performed to assess the real-world safety of 6-weekly pembrolizumab in relation to 3-weekly dosing.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a meta-analysis encompassing retrospective studies of solid organ malignancies comparing 6-weekly pembrolizumab with 3-weekly pembrolizumab including patients switched to 6-weekly from 3-weekly pembrolizumab ("switched"). Primary outcomes were relative risk estimates (RR) of grade 3-5 immune related adverse events (irAEs) for 6-weekly and "switched" pembrolizumab in relation to 3-weekly dosing. Secondary outcomes were pooled proportions of grade 3-5 irAEs for 6-weekly, 3-weekly and "switched" patients. A random effects logistic regression was used to estimate RR and the results were depicted in forest plots.

RESULTS: 10 studies were included with a total of 592 3-weekly, 520 6-weekly and 273 "switched" patients. 6-weekly pembrolizumab was not associated with increased rates of grade 3-5 irAEs when compared to 3-weekly dosing (RR 1.16; CI 0.85-1.58, p = 0.35). "Switched" 6-weekly patients had no significant difference in rates of grade 3-5 irAEs when compared to 3-weekly patients (RR 1.30; CI 0.87-2.07, p = 0.28). Total grade 3-5 irAEs for 6-weekly, 3-weekly and "switched" pembrolizumab patients were 15 %, 13 % and 16 %, respectively.

CONCLUSION: 6-weekly pembrolizumab is not associated with increased grade 3-5 irAEs compared to 3-weekly pembrolizumab. Switching patients to 6-weekly pembrolizumab from 3-weekly dosing was not associated with an increased risk of grade 3-5 irAEs.},
}

@article {pmid40397375,
year = {2025},
author = {Sansone, NMS and Mello, LS and Martins, JP and Marson, FAL},
title = {Impact of Coronavirus Disease (COVID)-19 on the Indigenous Population of Brazil: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40397375},
issn = {2196-8837},
support = {88887.892875/2023-00//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 88887.823904/2023-00//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 122407/2024-5//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Indigenous peoples in Brazil were severely impacted by coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic, experiencing high rates of infection and mortality. Geographic isolation, limited access to healthcare, socio-economic disparities, and cultural factors, such as communal living and mistrust of state-led initiatives, heightened their vulnerability. Territorial invasions and oxygen shortages further exacerbated the crisis. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to explore the progression of COVID-19 in this population.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed-MEDLINE, SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), and LILACS (Latin America and the Caribbean Health Sciences Literature) from the beginning of the pandemic in Brazil (2020) to March 2025. Studies addressing COVID-19 vaccination and epidemiological, social, and economic aspects among Indigenous populations in Brazil were included. Reviews and irrelevant studies were excluded. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS: A total of 50 relevant studies were included, grouped into thematic blocks: mortality/infection, symptoms, vaccination/testing, social impacts, and birth outcomes. Several studies highlighted that being male, of Indigenous or other racial minority background, and having comorbidities increased mortality risk. In contrast, asthma was associated with reduced mortality. Pregnant Indigenous women in rural areas had 33 times higher odds of dying than their urban counterparts. Furthermore, there is a higher likelihood of very low birth weight and inadequate prenatal care among Indigenous mothers. Vaccination reduced the risk of death, particularly after full immunization, though it did not prevent hospitalization. A cohort study of 389,753 Indigenous people showed a lower full vaccination rate (48.7%) compared to the general population (74.8%). Complete vaccination reduced the risk of death by 96% among hospitalized patients. Regarding seroprevalence, Indigenous people had a 5.4% positivity rate, much higher than other racial groups, and were 4.71 times more likely to test positive than White, Black, or Mixed Individuals. Socioeconomic disparities also correlated with increased infection risk.

CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic worsened health disparities among Indigenous peoples in Brazil, revealing systemic inequalities, weak public policies, and limited healthcare access. This review urges culturally sensitive, community-led responses and highlights the need for disaggregated data and equitable, inclusive health strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40397294,
year = {2025},
author = {Hingole, P and Saha, P and Das, S and Gundu, C and Kumar, A},
title = {Exploring the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and aging in COVID-19-Related neurological complications.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {479},
pmid = {40397294},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism ; *Aging/metabolism ; *Mitochondria/metabolism/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Nervous System Diseases/etiology/metabolism/virology ; Pandemics ; Mitochondrial Dynamics ; *Mitochondrial Diseases ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, posed a tremendous challenge to healthcare systems globally. Severe COVID-19 infection was reported to be associated with altered immunometabolism and cytokine storms, contributing to poor clinical outcomes and in many cases resulting in mortality. Despite promising preclinical results, many drugs have failed to show efficacy in clinical trials, highlighting the need for novel approaches to combat the virus and its severe manifestations. Mitochondria, crucial for aerobic respiration, play a pivotal role in modulating immunometabolism and neuronal function, making their compromised capability as central pathological mechanism contributing to the development of neurological complications in COVID-19. Dysregulated mitochondrial dynamics can lead to uncontrolled immune responses, underscoring the importance of mitochondrial regulation in shaping clinical outcomes. Aging further accelerates mitochondrial dysfunction, compounding immune dysregulation and neurodegeneration, making older adults particularly vulnerable to severe COVID-19 and its neurological sequelae. COVID-19 infection impairs mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, contributing to the long-term neurological complications associated with the disease. Additionally, recent reports also suggest that up to 30% of COVID-19 patients experience lingering neurological issues, thereby highlighting the critical need for further research into mitochondrial pathways to mitigate long-tern neurological consequences of Covid-19. This review examines the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in COVID-19-induced neurological complications, its connection to aging, and potential biomarkers for clinical diagnostics. It also discusses therapeutic strategies aimed at maintaining mitochondrial integrity to improve COVID-19 outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism
*Aging/metabolism
*Mitochondria/metabolism/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
*Nervous System Diseases/etiology/metabolism/virology
Pandemics
Mitochondrial Dynamics
*Mitochondrial Diseases

@article {pmid40396597,
year = {2025},
author = {Head, RJ and Buckley, JD and Martin, JH},
title = {Exploiting the vulnerability of SARS-CoV-2 with a partnership of mucosal immune function and nutrition: a narrative review.},
journal = {Nutrition research reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-54},
doi = {10.1017/S0954422425100061},
pmid = {40396597},
issn = {1475-2700},
abstract = {To achieve infectivity, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, must first traverse the upper respiratory tract mucosal barrier. Once infection is established, the cascading complexities of the pathophysiology of COVID-19 makes intervention extremely difficult. Thus, enhancing the defensive properties of the mucosal linings of the upper respiratory tract may reduce infection by SARS-CoV2 and indeed by other viruses such as influenza, which have been responsible for the two major pandemics of the last century. In this review we summarise potential opportunities for foods and nutrients to promote an adequate mucosal immune preparedness with an aim to assist protection against infection by SARS-CoV-2; to maximise the mucosal vaccination (IgA inducing) response to existing systemic vaccines; and to play a role as adjuvants to intranasal vaccines. We identify opportunities for vitamins A, and D, zinc, probiotics, bovine colostrum and resistant starch to promote mucosal immunity and enhance the mucosal response to systemic vaccines, and for vitamin A to also improve the mucosal response to intranasal vaccination. It is possible that an entirely different virus may in the future, by way of convergent evolution, utilise a similar upper respiratory tract infection pathway. A greater research focus on mucosal lymphoid immune protection in partnership with nutrition would result in greater preparedness for such an event.},
}

@article {pmid40396505,
year = {2025},
author = {Zorger, AM and Hirsch, C and Baumann, M and Feldmann, M and Bröckelmann, PJ and Mellinghoff, S and Monsef, I and Skoetz, N and Kreuzberger, N},
title = {Vaccines for preventing infections in adults with haematological malignancies.},
journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews},
volume = {5},
number = {5},
pages = {CD015530},
pmid = {40396505},
issn = {1469-493X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hematologic Neoplasms/immunology/complications ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Adult ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Immunocompromised Host ; Bias ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; Quality of Life ; Herpes Zoster Vaccine/adverse effects ; Pneumococcal Vaccines ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccination aims to prevent infections. People who are immunocompromised, such as those with haematological malignancies, often experience higher immunosuppression, increasing their vulnerability to infections compared to individuals with solid tumours or healthy individuals.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review is to summarise and evaluate the benefits and risks of vaccines for preventing infections in adults with haematological malignancies.

SEARCH METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive systematic search in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, and Web of Science on 2 December 2024 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and for controlled non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs). We also searched ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO (World Health Organization) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), and the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register.

SELECTION CRITERIA: We included RCTs and controlled NRSIs evaluating the preventive effect of vaccines on outcomes prioritised by clinical experts, patients, and patient representatives. The prioritised outcomes for adults (≥ 18 years) with haematological malignancies (excluding those receiving cellular therapies) were infection incidence, all-cause mortality, quality of life, adverse events of any grade, serious adverse events, and adverse events of special interest. We looked for studies that evaluated a broad range of vaccine types (e.g. COVID-19, diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type b, hepatitis B, herpes zoster, influenza, Neisseria meningitidis, pertussis, polio, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or tetanus), but we excluded live-attenuated vaccines.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We followed current Cochrane methodological standards in the conduct of this review. We assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias 2 tool (RoB 2) for RCTs and Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies - of Interventions (ROBINS-I) for controlled NRSIs.

MAIN RESULTS: We included six studies (four RCTs, two controlled NRSIs) with a total of 25,886 participants. We present the RCT results here and the NRSI findings from NRSIs in the full review. We judged one RCT on herpes zoster to be at low risk of bias overall, and we had 'some concerns' about bias in the other RCT on herpes zoster. We had 'some concerns' about bias in the RCTs on COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. Herpes zoster vaccines Two RCTs, involving 3067 participants with a range of haematological malignancies, evaluated vaccines for preventing herpes zoster compared to placebo or no vaccine. Vaccines may reduce herpes zoster incidence up to 21 months post-vaccination, although the 95% CI includes the possibility of no effect (4% versus 6%; RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.07 to 2.23; 2 RCTs, 3067 participants; low-certainty evidence). Vaccines probably have little to no effect on all-cause mortality up to 28 days post-vaccination (2.7% versus 2.6%; RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.64; 2548 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Vaccines slightly increase any-grade adverse events within 30 days (RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.18; 3110 participants; high-certainty evidence), but probably do not increase serious adverse events within 12 months (23% versus 29%; RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.60 to 1.05; 562 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) after vaccination. Vaccines increase injection site adverse events substantially (40% versus 13%; RR 3.07, 95% CI 2.62 to 3.59; high-certainty evidence) and also increase systemic adverse events (10% versus 6%; RR 1.82, 95% CI 1.38 to 2.40; high-certainty evidence), as measured in 2548 participants within 28 days post-vaccination. Neither RCT reported quality of life. COVID-19 vaccines One RCT, involving 95 participants with lymphoma, leukaemia or myeloma, evaluated the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine compared to placebo or no vaccine. Evidence about the effect of BNT162b2 vaccine on the incidence of COVID-19 up to six months after the second dose compared to placebo or no vaccine remains very uncertain (2.2% versus 2%; RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.07 to 17.25; 1 RCT, 95 participants; very low certainty evidence). Regarding safety data (mixed population including both solid tumours and haematological malignancies), BNT162b2 vaccine probably increases the number of participants with any grade adverse events (35% versus 17.5%; RR 1.99, 95% CI 1.71 to 2.30; 1 RCT, 2328 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and there may be little to no difference concerning the number of participants experiencing serious adverse events (2.4% versus 1.7%; RR 1.43, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.54; 1 RCT, 2328 participants; low-certainty evidence). The RCT did not report all-cause mortality, quality of life, injection site adverse events or systemic adverse events. Influenza vaccines No RCTs evaluated an influenza vaccine versus placebo or no vaccine. One RCT, involving 122 participants with plasma cell disorders, evaluated different dosing regimens for an influenza vaccine on the incidence of influenza infection. Evidence is very uncertain regarding the effect of two doses of high-dose trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine compared to one dose (with strength based on age) of influenza vaccination on the incidence of infection within the 2015 to 2016 flu season (4% versus 8%; RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.11 to 2.08; very low-certainty evidence). The RCT did not report all-cause mortality, quality of life, any-grade or serious adverse events, or injection site or systemic adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The evidence on vaccines for preventing infections in adults with haematological malignancies is limited and uncertain. Herpes zoster vaccines may reduce infection risk for up to 21 months, but the certainty of the evidence is low. While there is a considerable increase in short-term adverse events (high-certainty evidence), no increase in serious adverse events was observed at up to 12 months (moderate-certainty evidence). Data on long-term impacts on other outcomes are lacking. For COVID-19 and influenza vaccines, the evidence is very uncertain. We found no studies that could be included in the review of vaccines for our other infectious diseases of interest: diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), hepatitis B, Neisseria meningitidis, pertussis, polio, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or tetanus. Our review underscores the need for high-quality RCTs and controlled NRSIs with better reporting, larger samples, longer follow-ups, and a focus on patient-relevant outcomes, such as quality of life and long-term safety. A robust and continuously updated evidence base is essential to guide clinical and public health decisions.},
}

Humans
*Hematologic Neoplasms/immunology/complications
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Adult
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Immunocompromised Host
Bias
COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects
Influenza, Human/prevention & control
Quality of Life
Herpes Zoster Vaccine/adverse effects
Pneumococcal Vaccines
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40396498,
year = {2025},
author = {Meza, N and Franco, JV and Sguassero, Y and Núñez, V and Escobar Liquitay, CM and Rees, R and Williams, K and Rojas, V and Rojas, F and Pringsheim, T and Madrid, E},
title = {Atypical antipsychotics for autism spectrum disorder: a network meta-analysis.},
journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews},
volume = {5},
number = {5},
pages = {CD014965},
pmid = {40396498},
issn = {1469-493X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder/drug therapy/psychology ; Network Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Child ; Adult ; Risperidone/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Bias ; Irritable Mood/drug effects ; Olanzapine/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Aggression/drug effects ; Aripiprazole/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Placebos/therapeutic use ; Weight Gain/drug effects ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit a wide variety of symptoms related to social interaction and behaviour. Atypical antipsychotics have been widely evaluated and prescribed to treat distressing symptoms (e.g. irritability, aggression, obsessions, repetitive behaviours, etc.) in children and adults with ASD. Still, their effects and relative efficacy remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES: Primary: to assess the comparative benefits of atypical antipsychotics for irritability through network meta-analyses in children and adults with ASD at short-term follow-up. Secondary: to assess the benefits and harms of atypical antipsychotics, compared to placebo or any other atypical antipsychotic, for different symptoms (e.g. aggression, obsessive-compulsive behaviours, inappropriate speech) and side effects (e.g. extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, metabolic side effects) in children and adults with ASD at short-, medium- and long-term follow-up.

SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, 10 other databases, and two trial registers, together with reference checking, citation searching and contact with study authors to identify studies for inclusion. The latest search was 3 January 2024.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any atypical antipsychotic drug with placebo or another atypical antipsychotic drug for adults and children with a clinical diagnosis of ASD.

OUTCOMES: Critical outcomes included irritability, aggression, weight gain, extrapyramidal side effects, obsessive-compulsive behaviours and inappropriate speech.

RISK OF BIAS: We used the Cochrane RoB 2 tool to assess risk of bias in the included studies.

SYNTHESIS METHODS: We performed statistical analyses using a frequentist network meta-analysis for combined estimates for the outcome irritability and a random-effects model for pairwise comparisons for other outcomes. We rated the certainty of the evidence using GRADE.

INCLUDED STUDIES: We included 17 studies with 1027 randomised participants. One study evaluated adults (31 participants); the remaining 16 studies evaluated children (996 participants). The interventions were risperidone, aripiprazole, lurasidone and olanzapine.

SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: Comparative efficacy on irritability Based on the network meta-analysis, risperidone and aripiprazole may reduce symptoms of irritability compared to placebo in the short term in children with ASD (risperidone: mean difference (MD) -7.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) -9.37 to -6.42; 13 studies, 906 participants; low-certainty evidence; aripiprazole: MD -6.26, 95% CI -7.62 to -4.91; 13 studies, 906 participants; low-certainty evidence). Lurasidone probably results in little to no difference in irritability compared to placebo in the short term (MD -1.30, 95% CI -5.46 to 2.86; 13 studies, 906 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Efficacy and safety on other outcomes We are very uncertain about the effects of atypical antipsychotics on aggression compared to placebo at short-term follow-up in children with ASD (risk ratio (RR) 1.06, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.17; 1 study, 66 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was very low due to concerns about risk of bias and serious imprecision. We are very uncertain about the effects of atypical antipsychotics on the occurrence of weight gain (above predefined levels) compared to placebo in the short term in children with ASD (RR 2.40, 95% CI 1.25 to 4.60; 7 studies, 434 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are also very uncertain about the effects of atypical antipsychotics on weight gain (in kilograms) compared to placebo in the short term in children with ASD (MD 1.22 kg, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.88; 3 studies, 297 participants; very low-certainty evidence). In both, the certainty of the evidence was very low due to concerns about risk of bias and serious imprecision. We are very uncertain about the effects of atypical antipsychotics on the occurrence of extrapyramidal side effects compared to placebo in the short term in children with ASD (RR 2.36, 95% CI 1.22 to 4.59; 6 studies, 511 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was very low due to concerns about risk of bias and serious imprecision. Atypical antipsychotics may improve obsessive-compulsive behaviours compared to placebo in the short term in children with ASD (MD -1.36, 95% CI -2.45 to -0.27; 5 studies, 467 participants; low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was low due to concerns about risk of bias and heterogeneity. Atypical antipsychotics may reduce inappropriate speech compared to placebo in the short term in children with ASD (MD -1.44, 95% CI -2.11 to -0.77; 8 studies, 676 participants; low-certainty evidence). The certainty of the evidence was low due to concerns about risk of bias and heterogeneity. We were unable to evaluate the effects of other atypical antipsychotics. Furthermore, our findings on adults with autism were scarce due to the lack of available studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Risperidone and aripiprazole may reduce symptoms of irritability compared to placebo in children with ASD in the short term, but lurasidone probably has little to no effect on irritability compared to placebo. Other benefits and potential harms observed ranged from moderate- to very low-certainty evidence. The available data did not allow comprehensive subgroup analyses. New randomised controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed to balance the efficacy and safety of interventions with enough certainty, which are currently scarce (or even absent in the case of the adult population). Authors should report population and intervention characteristics transparently, providing disaggregated or individual patient data when possible. Furthermore, consistent measurement methods for each outcome should be reported to avoid problems during the data synthesis process.

FUNDING: This Cochrane review had no dedicated funding.

REGISTRATION: Protocol available via 10.1002/14651858.CD014965.},
}

Humans
*Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Autism Spectrum Disorder/drug therapy/psychology
Network Meta-Analysis as Topic
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Child
Adult
Risperidone/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Bias
Irritable Mood/drug effects
Olanzapine/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Aggression/drug effects
Aripiprazole/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Placebos/therapeutic use
Weight Gain/drug effects

@article {pmid40220931,
year = {2025},
author = {Ji, C and Li, S and Hu, C and Liu, T and Huang, Q and Yang, M and Yang, M and Wang, Q and Li, A and Guo, D and Huang, Y and Yin, S and Feng, S},
title = {Traditional Chinese medicine as a promising choice for future control of PEDV.},
journal = {Virus research},
volume = {356},
number = {},
pages = {199572},
doi = {10.1016/j.virusres.2025.199572},
pmid = {40220931},
issn = {1872-7492},
mesh = {Animals ; *Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/drug effects ; Swine ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Swine Diseases/virology/drug therapy/prevention & control ; *Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/drug therapy/virology/prevention & control ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is the major agent of the recent outbreaks of diarrhea in piglets, which has caused huge economic losses to the global swine industry. Since traditional vaccine strategies cannot provide complete protection for piglets, the development of safe, effective, and economical antiviral drugs is urgently needed. For many years, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been broadly applied for viral infectious diseases, exhibiting advantages such as abundant resources, lower toxicity, and minimal drug resistance. Many Chinese herbal monomers, single herbal extracts derived from these traditional drugs, and Chinese herbal recipes exhibit significant anti-PEDV effects in vitro and/or in vivo by targeting multiple sites and perspectives, including inhibition of the viral life cycle, anti-inflammation effects, enhancement of the host immune response, modulation of reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis. However, to date, no review has been published on the anti-PEDV effects of TCM. Therefore, this review summarizes the current control strategies for PEDV and systematically analyses the research progress of TCMs against PEDV. Furthermore, the future directions including the integration of nanotechnology and artificial intelligence with TCMs are also discussed. This review will provide a valuable reference for future studies on TCMs in antiviral research.},
}

Animals
*Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/drug effects
Swine
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Swine Diseases/virology/drug therapy/prevention & control
*Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/drug therapy/virology/prevention & control
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology/therapeutic use

@article {pmid39899879,
year = {2025},
author = {Sochet, AA and Kiskaddon, A and Goldenberg, NA},
title = {How I approach pharmacological thromboprophylaxis in children.},
journal = {Blood},
volume = {145},
number = {21},
pages = {2439-2446},
doi = {10.1182/blood.2024026327},
pmid = {39899879},
issn = {1528-0020},
mesh = {Humans ; *Venous Thromboembolism/prevention & control/epidemiology/etiology ; Child ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Anticoagulants/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Child, Preschool ; Male ; Female ; Adolescent ; Infant ; Risk Factors ; Risk Assessment ; Hospitalization ; },
abstract = {The incidence of venous thromboembolism in children continues to rise, with the most recent analysis from the Pediatric Hospital Information Systems database in the United States reporting a 200-fold increase in pediatric hospitalization-related venous thromboembolism diagnoses over the past 2 decades. In the past decade, several pediatric venous thromboembolism risk prediction models have been published, in some cases derived from multi-institutional data, and multicenter randomized clinical trials of thromboembolism prevention in specific pediatric subpopulations have been conducted. Yet, apart from children hospitalized for COVID-19, guidelines for thromboprophylaxis (TP) in children that address several distinct at-risk subpopulations and settings for venous thromboembolism are presently lacking. It is becoming increasingly apparent that approaches to pharmacological TP for hospitalized children should be risk-stratified regarding a priori risks of both venous thromboembolism and clinically relevant bleeding. In this manuscript, we present model cases of common inpatient clinical scenarios and review the evidence related to venous thromboembolism risk models and pharmacological TP clinical trials in children, describing a pragmatic approach to pharmacological TP for each scenario. We then conclude by describing our evidence-informed, subpopulation- and setting-specific approach to pharmacological TP for the clinical scenarios and reviewing critical knowledge gaps well-suited for future pediatric trials to inform TP in children.},
}

Humans
*Venous Thromboembolism/prevention & control/epidemiology/etiology
Child
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Anticoagulants/therapeutic use/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Child, Preschool
Male
Female
Adolescent
Infant
Risk Factors
Risk Assessment
Hospitalization

@article {pmid39538081,
year = {2025},
author = {Corriol-Rohou, S and Fürst-Recktenwald, SI and Davies, EH and Dehlinger-Kremer, M and Turner, MA},
title = {Better Medicines for Children: Lessons Learnt and Share Learnings at the EFGCP Annual Paediatric Conferences.},
journal = {Therapeutic innovation & regulatory science},
volume = {59},
number = {1},
pages = {184-189},
doi = {10.1007/s43441-024-00710-w},
pmid = {39538081},
issn = {2168-4804},
mesh = {Child ; Humans ; *Congresses as Topic ; COVID-19 ; *Drug Development ; Europe ; *Pediatrics ; },
abstract = {For many years, the European Forum for Good Clinical Practice (EFGCP) Children Medicines Working Party has organised a Paediatric conference annually. In the past, this event was organised jointly with the European Medicines Agency who was used to host it, along with the Drug Information Association (DIA). This conference is the opportunity for all involved in paediatric drug development, i.e., regulators, HTA bodies, patients' representatives, academia and industry, to share learnings and raise awareness about new regulatory requirements of interest to optimise paediatric drug development. The theme of the 2021 conference was "Challenges and Solutions - the path forward" while in 2022 it focused on "Progress made and Continuing Challenges". Because of the COVID-19 pandemic these two conferences were organised virtually. However, this has not impacted the attendance and value of the conference, since because of a broad and attractive agenda there was a wide stakeholder participation, which provided a compendious overview of the leading issues to improve children's access to innovative medicines.},
}

Child
Humans
*Congresses as Topic
COVID-19
*Drug Development
Europe
*Pediatrics

@article {pmid39162718,
year = {2025},
author = {Maizel, J and Filipp, SL and Zori, G and Yadav, S and Avaiya, K and Figg, L and Hechavarria, M and Roque, X and Anez-Zabala, C and Lal, R and Addala, A and Haller, MJ and Maahs, DM and Walker, AF},
title = {Project Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Intervention Evaluations: A Scoping Review of Research Methods.},
journal = {The Journal of continuing education in the health professions},
volume = {45},
number = {2},
pages = {89-100},
doi = {10.1097/CEH.0000000000000572},
pmid = {39162718},
issn = {1554-558X},
support = {G-2005-03934//Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Community Health Services/methods ; *Outcome Assessment, Health Care/methods ; Telemedicine ; Research Design ; Program Evaluation/methods ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Since its inception in 2003, the Project Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) tele-education model has reached and improved outcomes for patients, providers, and health centers through interventions in >180 countries. Utilization of this model has recently increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a higher demand for remote education. However, limited research has examined the methodologies used to evaluate Project ECHO interventions.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review to determine the extent and types of research methods used to evaluate outcomes and implementation success of Project ECHO interventions and to identify gaps and opportunities for future investigation. Using Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review framework and the PRISMA-ScR checklist, we reviewed study designs, temporality, analysis methods, data sources, and levels and types of data in 121 articles evaluating Project ECHO interventions.

RESULTS: Most interventions addressed substance use disorders (24.8%, n = 30), infectious diseases (24%, n = 29), psychiatric and behavioral health conditions (21.5%, n = 26), and chronic diseases (19%, n = 23). The most frequently reported evaluation methods included cohort studies (86.8%, n = 105), longitudinal designs (74.4%, n = 90), mixed methods analysis (52.1%, n = 63), surveys (61.2%, n = 74), process evaluation measures (98.3%, n = 119), and provider-level outcome measures (84.3%, n = 102). Few evaluations used experimental designs (1.7%, n = 2), randomization (5.8%, n = 7), or comparison groups (14%, n = 17), indicating limited rigor.

DISCUSSION: This scoping review demonstrates the need for more rigorous evaluation methods to test the effectiveness of the Project ECHO model at improving outcomes and standardized reporting guidelines to enhance the dissemination of evaluation data from future Project ECHO interventions.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Community Health Services/methods
*Outcome Assessment, Health Care/methods
Telemedicine
Research Design
Program Evaluation/methods

@article {pmid40396160,
year = {2025},
author = {Tisdale, RL and Burnett, K and Rogers, M and Nelson, K and Heyworth, L and Zulman, DM},
title = {An approach to evaluating the impact of virtual specialty care: the Veterans Health Administration's clinical resource hub as case study.},
journal = {JAMIA open},
volume = {8},
number = {3},
pages = {ooaf038},
pmid = {40396160},
issn = {2574-2531},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Telemedicine for specialty medical care is evolving from a COVID-19 pandemic-era requirement to an option for patients and clinicians alike, requiring evidence to guide optimal use of virtual specialty care. Heterogeneity across medical specialties complicates this evidence generation. To address this gap in the literature, we present an approach to evaluation of telehealth across specialties with the potential to generate findings generalizable across specialties and health systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We describe an approach to evaluation of virtual specialty care that balances widely generalizable metrics, such as patient and clinician satisfaction and avoided travel or cost, and those that are specialty-specific. We use the Veterans Health Administration (VA)'s Clinical Resource Hub program to illustrate potential applications of this approach.

RESULTS: Clinical Resource Hub clinics leverage a hub-and-spoke model to deliver virtual care across many specialties, compensating for staffing shortages and expanding access to more specialized services not available at every VA site. Use cases for these clinics span the spectrum of short-term, episodic care to long-term substitution for a usual source of specialty care and offer opportunities to apply a range of evaluation metrics that generalize across telehealth use cases.

DISCUSSION: Clinical Resource Hub clinics provide a variety of examples for this approach, demonstrating a path forward for virtual specialty care evaluation.

CONCLUSION: As the Clinical Resource Hub case illustrates, combining universal and specialty- or use case-specific metrics has the potential to build the evidence base for virtual specialty care.},
}

@article {pmid40395715,
year = {2025},
author = {Hompas, T and Liang, Z},
title = {Understanding competency development of the management workforce in veterinary clinical practice: A scoping review.},
journal = {Veterinary record open},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {e70011},
pmid = {40395715},
issn = {2052-6113},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The historical challenges facing veterinary care have been exacerbated by the surge in pet ownership and demand for services following the COVID-19 pandemic. Managers in veterinary services are essential in navigating these challenges while ensuring the provision of quality animal care. Evidence from human healthcare highlights the importance of developing and supporting managers to thrive in their management roles. However, there is currently no established management competency framework to guide development of managers working in veterinary care.

METHODS: A two-step approach was used to explore the existing efforts to develop a competent veterinary management workforce. A scoping review of Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley framework. This review aimed to identify both the key management challenges in veterinary services and specific competencies required by veterinary managers. A supplementary web-based search of professional institutions and postgraduate programmes relevant to veterinary leadership and management was also completed.

RESULTS: Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria with only five of them published after 2011. The literature identified key challenges in managing veterinary services and revealed a limited recognition of skills and competencies for veterinary managers, especially when compared with the human healthcare sector. Several professional institutions and educational programmes supporting veterinary leaders were identified.

CONCLUSION: Findings confirm that current approaches to management competency identification and development in veterinary care are insufficient. A validated, comprehensive framework to build management capability in veterinary care is urgently needed to support managers in fulfilling their roles and to promote sustainable veterinary service delivery.},
}

@article {pmid40394759,
year = {2025},
author = {Christofferson, RC and Giovanni, JE and Koumans, EH and Ategbole, M and Clark, SD and Godfred-Cato, S and Menon, MP and Sastalla, I and Schweitzer, BK and Uyeki, TM},
title = {A Systematic Review of Prolonged SARS-CoV-2 Shedding in Immunocompromised Persons.},
journal = {Influenza and other respiratory viruses},
volume = {19},
number = {5},
pages = {e70121},
doi = {10.1111/irv.70121},
pmid = {40394759},
issn = {1750-2659},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *COVID-19/virology/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Virus Shedding ; RNA, Viral ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although reports have documented prolonged SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection in immunocompromised patients, few studies have systematically analyzed data on duration of SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory specimens of immunocompromised patients.

METHODS: A systematic review was undertaken to describe SARS-CoV-2 RNA and infectious virus detection in immunocompromised patients from published data between January 1, 2020 and July 1, 2022. Patients were included if there was ≥ 1 positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA result in respiratory specimens collected > 20 days since symptom onset or first positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR result.

RESULTS: Of the 183 patients, 175 were symptomatic with 83 (47.4%) that experienced intermittent relapsing symptoms, while pneumonia was reported in 122 (66.7%). Immunocompromising conditions represented were hematologic malignancy treatment (89, 48.6%), solid organ transplant (47, 25.7%), autoimmune disease treatment (14, 7.7%), solid tumor treatment (3, 1.6%), HIV infection (15, 8.2%), and primary immunodeficiency (15, 8.2%). Median duration from the first to the last positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR result was 56 days in upper respiratory and 60 days in lower respiratory tract specimens. Significant differences in median duration of SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection were observed between patients with and without pneumonia and for patients with hematologic malignancies compared to solid organ transplant patients. Among patients with viral culture performed, median duration of replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 was 60.5 days from symptom onset (maximum 238 days) and 59 days from first RT-PCR positive result (maximum 268 days).

CONCLUSIONS: Immunocompromised persons can have replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory tissues for months, including while asymptomatic. Serial SARS-CoV-2 testing can inform the duration of isolation for immunocompromised patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Humans
*Immunocompromised Host
*COVID-19/virology/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics
*Virus Shedding
RNA, Viral

@article {pmid40394641,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammadi, K and Faramarzi, S and Yaribash, S and Valizadeh, Z and Rajabi, E and Ghavam, M and Samiee, R and Karim, B and Salehi, M and Seifi, A and Shafaati, M},
title = {Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in 2025: emerging trends and insights from community and hospital-based respiratory panel analyses-a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {150},
pmid = {40394641},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Metapneumovirus/genetics/isolation & purification ; *Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology/transmission ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Seasons ; Hospitals ; },
abstract = {Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen, primarily impacting young, elderly, and immunocompromised populations. While the clinical presentations are similar to those of other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, they can still lead to serious complications. The virus primarily transmits via respiratory droplets, with outbreaks peaking during winter and spring. In resource-limited settings, administration of multiplex PCR assays is essential for precise diagnosis, yet it presents significant challenges. Recent studies indicate a 6.24% infection rate in hospitalized patients presenting with acute respiratory infections (ARIs). Enhanced surveillance and prevention are essential given the morbidity and mortality rates of hMPV, which are comparable to those of influenza and RSV. Effective management requires enhanced diagnostic tools, improved public health strategies, and continuous research into antiviral therapies and vaccines. This study highlighted the growing importance of hMPV as a respiratory pathogen, focusing on its seasonal patterns, clinical manifestations in at-risk populations, transmission dynamics, and diagnostic challenges compared to other respiratory viruses.},
}

Humans
*Metapneumovirus/genetics/isolation & purification
*Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology/transmission
*Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology/diagnosis
Seasons
Hospitals

@article {pmid40394626,
year = {2025},
author = {Belita, E and Neil-Sztramko, SE and Seale, C and Zhou, F and Zogo, CO and Boamah, S and Cabaj, J and Jack, SM and Banfield, L and Neudorf, C and Watson-Creed, G and Dobbins, M},
title = {Organizational interventions to support and promote the mental health of healthcare workers during pandemics and epidemics: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {731},
pmid = {40394626},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {#WI2 179945/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; #WI2 179945/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; #WI2 179945/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Pandemics ; *Mental Health ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Epidemics ; Workload/psychology ; Burnout, Professional ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Understanding organizational mechanisms that protect the mental health of the healthcare workforce during pandemics and epidemics is critical to support decision-making related to worker health and safety. This systematic review aimed to identify organizational-level factors, strategies or interventions that support the mental health of healthcare workers during pandemics or epidemics.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was used, including online databases, a grey literature review, and handsearching of reference lists. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they described implementing or testing organizational-level factors, strategies or interventions to support healthcare workers' mental health during pandemics or epidemics. There were no limitations by language, publication status, or publication date. Two reviewers independently conducted screening, data extraction, data analysis and quality appraisal, with conflicts resolved through discussion or third-party arbitration. Data analysis was guided by the Job Demands-Resources Model. A narrative synthesis is presented, given the high degree of heterogeneity across studies.

RESULTS: A total of 10,805 articles from database searches and 190 records from other sources were screened. The final review included 86 articles. Studies were of low (n = 11), moderate (n = 39), and high quality (n = 36). Regarding job demands, 40 studies explored high work pressure or heavy workload factors, with the majority investigating working hours (n = 32). Increased working hours may be associated with an increased risk of diverse mental health outcomes. Regarding job resources, leadership factors, strategies (support, appreciation, responsiveness; n = 19) and leadership interventions (n = 3) may be associated with decreased burnout, anxiety, stress, and increased well-being. The availability and adequacy of personal protective equipment (n = 20) may be associated with decreased burnout, anxiety, depression, and stress. Mixed findings were reported on associations between diverse mental health outcomes and training and education (n = 28) or peer support (n = 3). Results should be interpreted cautiously given the high heterogeneity among factors, strategies, and interventions assessed and outcomes measured.

CONCLUSIONS: Organizational-level mechanisms can critically influence the mental health of healthcare workers' during pandemics and epidemics. More focused attention is needed to explore and act on the integral role of leadership and the availability of protective equipment to support healthcare workers' mental health.},
}

Humans
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Pandemics
*Mental Health
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Epidemics
Workload/psychology
Burnout, Professional

@article {pmid40394244,
year = {2025},
author = {Luo, N and Huang, Q and Zhang, M and Yi, C},
title = {Functions and therapeutic applications of pseudouridylation.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Molecular cell biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40394244},
issn = {1471-0080},
abstract = {The success of using pseudouridine (Ψ) and its methylation derivative in mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 has sparked a renewed interest in this RNA modification, known as the 'fifth nucleotide' of RNA. In this Review, we discuss the emerging functions of pseudouridylation in gene regulation, focusing on how pseudouridine in mRNA, tRNA and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) regulates translation. We also discuss the effects of pseudouridylation on RNA secondary structure, pre-mRNA splicing, and in vitro mRNA stability. In addition to nuclear-genome-encoded RNAs, pseudouridine is also present in mitochondria-encoded rRNA, mRNA and tRNA, where it has different distributions and functions compared with their nuclear counterparts. We then discuss the therapeutic potential of programmable pseudouridylation and mRNA vaccine optimization through pseudouridylation. Lastly, we briefly describe the latest quantitative pseudouridine detection methods. We posit that pseudouridine is a highly promising modification that merits further epitranscriptomics investigation and therapeutic application.},
}

@article {pmid40393551,
year = {2025},
author = {Martin, AF and Rubin, GJ and Rogers, MB and Wessely, S and Greenberg, N and Hall, CE and Pitt, A and Logan, PE and Lucas, R and Brooks, SK},
title = {The changing prevalence of ADHD? A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of affective disorders},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {119427},
doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2025.119427},
pmid = {40393551},
issn = {1573-2517},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Understanding the prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and changes in demand for related healthcare services is crucial for effective healthcare policy and resource allocation. Clinicians, teachers and charities have reported increasing demand for ADHD diagnoses in recent years, overwhelming support systems. This review synthesises post-2020 studies of ADHD prevalence and incidence.

METHODS: We conducted systematic searches in Web of Science, Embase, Medline, Global Health, and PsycInfo using terms relating to ADHD and prevalence. Additional sources included public health databases, Google, and study reference lists. Studies were included if they contained original data relating to general population rates of ADHD and we extracted data relating to methods of assessment and measures of prevalence and incidence. We followed PRISMA and synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) guidelines.

RESULTS: Forty studies across 17 countries, with one study spanning 42 countries, were reviewed. No significant rise in ADHD prevalence was found, although incidence was found to vary during the COVID-19 pandemic. Only four of the included studies were at low risk of bias.

LIMITATIONS: There are substantial limitations in the quality of the literature included in this review. Due to significant delays in reporting prevalence data, estimates from previous reviews may be inaccurate. There is a lack of healthcare data and no school-level data.

CONCLUSIONS: Significant research gaps exist in determining ADHD prevalence and incidence. The highest quality findings do not suggest an increase in prevalence since 2020 but indicate some variability in incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is urgently needed to guide clinical practice and public health policy.},
}

@article {pmid40393170,
year = {2025},
author = {Pei, T and Li, W and Zhou, Z and Zhang, Q and Yu, G and Yin, S and Chen, H and Tang, J},
title = {The relationship between tryptophan metabolism and gut microbiota: Interaction mechanism and potential effects in infection treatment.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {298},
number = {},
pages = {128211},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2025.128211},
pmid = {40393170},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Human health is influenced by the gut microbiota, particularly in aspects of host immune homeostasis and intestinal immune response. Tryptophan (Trp) not only acts as a nutrient enhancer but also plays a critical role in the balance between host immune tolerance and gut microbiota maintenance. Both endogenous and bacterial metabolites of Trp, exert significant effects on gut microbial composition, microbial metabolism, the host immunity and the host-microbiome interface. Trp metabolites regulate host immunity by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), thereby contributing to immune homeostasis. Among Trp metabolites, AhR ligands include endogenous metabolites (such as kynurenine), and bacterial metabolites (such as indole and its derivatives). Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between Trp metabolism and 14 key microbiota, encompassing fungi (e.g., Candida albicans, Aspergillus), bacteria (e.g., Ruminococcus gnavus, Bacteroides, Prevotella copri, Clostridium difficile, Escherichia coli, lactobacilli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Helicobacter. Pylori), and viruses (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, influenza virus). This review clarifies how the gut microbiota regulates Trp metabolism and uncovers the underlying mechanisms of these interactions. And increased mechanistic insight into how the microbiota modulate the host immune system through Trp metabolism may allow for the identification of innovative therapies that are specifically designed to target Trp absorption, Trp metabolites, the gut microbiota, or interactions between Trp and gut microbiota to treat both intestinal and extra-intestinal inflammation as well as microbial infections.},
}

@article {pmid40392201,
year = {2025},
author = {Hagberg, L and Zetterberg, H and Gisslén, M},
title = {Neurofilament light chain as a biomarker for neuronal injury in CNS infections.},
journal = {Expert review of molecular diagnostics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14737159.2025.2509023},
pmid = {40392201},
issn = {1744-8352},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In this special report, we summarize studies of cerebrospinal fluid and plasma/serum biomarker neurofilament light chain (NfL) concentrations, a key structural component of myelinated axons in neuroinfections.

AREAS COVERED: The following infections were searched for in Pub Med; Neuroinfection and biomarkers, herpes simplex encephalitis and neurofilament light chain, tick-borne encephalitis and neurofilament light chain, Lyme neuroborreliosis and neurofilament light chain, bacterial meningitis and neurofilament light chain, malaria and neurofilament light chain, COVID-19 and neurofilament light chain, HIV infection and neurofilament light chain.

EXPERT OPINION: NfL can serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing disease severity and neurological complications in the acute stage of neuroinfections and can also be useful in evaluating patients with residual symptoms following acute illness.},
}

@article {pmid40198479,
year = {2025},
author = {Khalil, Z and Fouly, M and Helito, P},
title = {Unprecedented case of rapid-onset autoimmune hepatitis triggered by COVID-19 mRNA vaccination, complicated by concurrent severe hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and acute liver failure in a previously healthy adult: a multidisciplinary approach and review of therapeutic interventions.},
journal = {Clinical journal of gastroenterology},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {408-416},
pmid = {40198479},
issn = {1865-7265},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic/etiology/therapy/diagnosis ; Adult ; *Liver Failure, Acute/etiology/therapy ; *Hepatitis, Autoimmune/etiology/therapy/diagnosis ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {A previously healthy 35-year-old male developed acute autoimmune hepatitis 5 weeks after receiving his second dose of an mRNA vaccine, presenting with jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, and abdominal pain. The condition rapidly progressed to severe hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and acute liver failure, confirmed by liver biopsy and bone marrow aspirate. Despite aggressive multidisciplinary treatment, including corticosteroids, immunoglobulin, and IL-1 antagonists, the patient deteriorated, developing multi-organ failure. Emergency liver transplantation was considered but was not viable due to his unstable condition. The case highlights a potential rare vaccine-associated immune response which we believe has not been reported in the literature, requiring prompt recognition and multidisciplinary management. Further research is needed to understand the underlying immunogenic triggers and optimize treatment.},
}

Humans
Male
*Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic/etiology/therapy/diagnosis
Adult
*Liver Failure, Acute/etiology/therapy
*Hepatitis, Autoimmune/etiology/therapy/diagnosis
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid40395855,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhao, X and Jiang, Y and Zhou, Y and Yan, J},
title = {Force-dependent rapid immunoassay of high specificity and sensitivity.},
journal = {Mechanobiology in medicine},
volume = {2},
number = {2},
pages = {100061},
pmid = {40395855},
issn = {2949-9070},
abstract = {The significance of early detection and isolation of infected individuals, along with the quantitative assessment of antibodies against the virus, has gained widespread recognition during the ongoing covid-19 pandemic. This necessitates the development of cost-effective, user-friendly, decentralized testing methods characterized by both high sensitivity and specificity. In this article, we present a comprehensive review of an innovative, low-cost rapid decentralized immunoassay technology, applicable across various diagnostic and quantitative testing scenarios. Distinguishing itself from conventional immunoassay technologies, this method is featured with mechanically enhanced specificity without compromising sensitivity. We delve into the basic principle of the technology and a comparative analysis of this technology in relation to other immunodiagnostic methods, highlighting its potential applications in a wide spectrum of diagnostic tests.},
}

@article {pmid37698747,
year = {2025},
author = {Theron, LC and Cockcroft, K and Annalakshmi, N and Rodgers, JG and Akinduyo, TE and Fouché, A},
title = {Emerging Adult Resilience to the Early Stages of the COVID-Pandemic: A Systematic Scoping Review.},
journal = {Child psychiatry and human development},
volume = {56},
number = {3},
pages = {793-808},
pmid = {37698747},
issn = {1573-3327},
support = {JNI20/1009//National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Resilience, Psychological ; Adult ; Social Support ; Young Adult ; Adaptation, Psychological ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Human resilience to COVID-19 related stressors remains a pressing concern following the aftereffects of the pandemic and in the face of probable future pandemics. In response, we systematically scoped the available literature (n = 2030 records) to determine the nature and extent of research on emerging adults' adaptive responses to COVID-19 stressors in the early stages of the pandemic. Using a multisystem resilience framework, our narrative review of 48 eligible studies unpacks the personal, relational, institutional and/or physical ecological resources that enabled positive emerging adult outcomes to COVID-18 stressors. We found that there is a geographical bias in studies on this topic, with majority world contexts poorly represented. Resources leading to positive outcomes foregrounded psychological and social support, while institutional and ecological supports were seldom mentioned. Multisystemic combinations of resources were rarely considered. This knowledge has valuable implications for understanding resilience in the context of other large-scale adverse conditions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
*Resilience, Psychological
Adult
Social Support
Young Adult
Adaptation, Psychological
Pandemics

@article {pmid40391396,
year = {2025},
author = {Vasquez, I and Xue, R and Srivastava, I},
title = {Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Nanotags: Design Strategies, Biomedical Applications, and Integration of Machine Learning.},
journal = {Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {e70015},
doi = {10.1002/wnan.70015},
pmid = {40391396},
issn = {1939-0041},
mesh = {*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods ; Humans ; *Machine Learning ; Animals ; COVID-19/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Neoplasms/diagnosis ; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a transformative technique for molecular identification, offering exceptional sensitivity, signal specificity, and resistance to photobleaching, making it invaluable for disease diagnosis, monitoring, and spectroscopy-guided surgeries. Unlike traditional Raman spectroscopy, which relies on weak scattering signals, SERS amplifies Raman signals using plasmonic nanoparticles, enabling highly sensitive molecular detection. This technological advancement has led to the development of SERS nanotags with remarkable multiplexing capabilities for biosensing applications. Recent progress has expanded the use of SERS nanotags in bioimaging, theranostics, and more recently, liquid biopsy. The distinction between SERS and conventional Raman spectroscopy is highlighted, followed by an exploration of the molecular assembly of SERS nanotags. Significant progress in bioimaging is summarized, including in vitro studies on 2D/3D cell cultures, ex vivo tissue imaging, in vivo diagnostics, spectroscopic-guided surgery for tumor margin delineation, and liquid biopsy tools for detecting cancer and SARS-CoV-2. A particular focus is the integration of machine learning (ML) and deep learning algorithms to boost SERS nanotag efficacy in liquid biopsies. Finally, it addresses the challenges in the clinical translation of SERS nanotags and offers strategies to overcome these obstacles.},
}

*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods
Humans
*Machine Learning
Animals
COVID-19/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
Neoplasms/diagnosis
Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid40391312,
year = {2025},
author = {Atarodi, A and Kalankesh, LR and Ghaderi Nansa, L and Vaziri, MH and Hajighasemkhan, A},
title = {Association between COVID-19 Mortality and Underlying Disease; Tehran, Iran.},
journal = {Journal of caring sciences},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {37-41},
pmid = {40391312},
issn = {2251-9920},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease has emerged as one of the major health challenges in the 21st century. This study aimed to investigate the association between COVID-19 mortality and underlying disease in Tehran.

METHODS: The retrospective, epidemiological study was conducted from January 1, 2019, to May 31, 2021, in hospitals in Tehran, Iran based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). Data concerning coronary cases with underlying disease (8018) and related demographic and clinical characteristics are collected by hospitals. Additionally, logistic regression was examined to determine the association between COVID-19 mortality and underlying disease.

RESULTS: The result shows that incurable diseases (47.3%) and cancer (67.7%) had the lowest while; pulmonary disease showed the highest recovery day (80.7%) between various underlying conditions. In addition, cancer and pulmonary disease show 10.41 and 7.3 hospitalization days, respectively. The logistic regression analysis revealed that mortality in cases with cancer as an underlying disease is 4.72 times higher than in cases without cancer (95% CI: 4.08-5.46). Moreover, the adjusted regression analysis showed that the mortality in multiple underlying conditions such as cancer, respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and diabetes are 5.48, 2.75, 4.081, and 3.162 times higher, respectively (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into how specific underlying health conditions can increase the risk of COVID-19 mortality, hospitalization, and recovery time.},
}

@article {pmid40391308,
year = {2025},
author = {Namdar Areshtanab, H and Hosseinzadeh, M and Ebrahimi, H and Arshadi Bostanabad, M and Sepehrnia, N},
title = {Health Anxiety and Its Relationship with Academic Performance and Learning Styles among Nursing Students during COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of caring sciences},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {52-57},
pmid = {40391308},
issn = {2251-9920},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate health anxiety and its relationships with academic performance and learning styles among nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 365 participants selected through stratified random sampling in Iran in 2021. Data were collected using Health Anxiety Inventory, Visual, Aural, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic Learning Styles Questionnaire and students' self-reported grade point average (GPA). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient and chi-square test) by SPSS version 13.

RESULTS: The mean (SD) health anxiety score among nursing students was 24.33(9.79) on a range of 0-54; and the mean (SD) of GPA was 15.60 (1.51) on a range of 0-20. The majority of students (85.8%) had a unimodal learning style, with the dominant pattern being kinetic-motor (39.7%). The study found a negative correlation between health anxiety and academic performance (r=-0.19, P≤0.05). However, no significant association was identified between health anxiety and learning style (r=-0.27, P=0.42). The analysis of health anxiety among participants indicated notable differences based on demographic factors such as sex, interest in nursing, and education level (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION: This study revealed a moderate level of health anxiety among Iranian nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified a significant negative correlation between health anxiety and academic performance. These findings underscore the need for interventions targeting health anxiety to potentially improve academic outcomes for nursing students, as reducing anxiety levels can enhance focus, learning capacity, and overall academic performance.},
}

@article {pmid40391044,
year = {2025},
author = {Duenas, K and Chwa, WJ and Hoque, F},
title = {Overview of Long COVID: Navigating the Aftermath.},
journal = {Journal of Brown hospital medicine},
volume = {4},
number = {2},
pages = {133879},
pmid = {40391044},
issn = {2994-5593},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic was a global health crisis with far-reaching consequences. Among these were physical and mental health complications that emerged weeks or even months after the initial COVID-19 infection, collectively termed "long COVID" or "post-COVID syndrome." Identifying the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, and management strategies for long COVID is crucial for both clinicians and patients, which is the focus of this review. The prevalence of long COVID varies across studies, generally ranging from 5% to 20%. Prominent risk factors include female sex, older age, a high number of acute symptoms, lower socioeconomic status, and underlying comorbidities such as diabetes, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The clinical manifestations of long COVID are diverse; beyond the commonly reported symptoms of fatigue, malaise, ageusia, and anosmia, neuropsychiatric complications such as headache, cognitive deficits, and depression are also potential outcomes. Although there is currently no consensus on the management of long COVID, multidisciplinary care teams with appropriate referrals and follow-up diagnostic studies are essential in evaluating the clinical course of long COVID patients.},
}

@article {pmid40389865,
year = {2025},
author = {Fatoke, B and Hui, AL and Saqib, M and Vashisth, M and Aremu, SO and Aremu, DO and Aremu, DB},
title = {Type 2 diabetes mellitus as a predictor of severe outcomes in COVID-19 - a systematic review and meta-analyses.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {719},
pmid = {40389865},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality/complications/therapy ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/mortality ; Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Severity of Illness Index ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to global health, with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) emerging as a key risk factor for adverse outcomes. This study systematically reviews and quantifies the association between T2DM and COVID-19 outcomes, including mortality, severity, and need for mechanical ventilation.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted that adhered to PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase for studies published from december 2019 to march 2024. Eligible studies reported on the impact of T2DM on COVID-19 outcomes in the adult population. Data were extracted and analyzed using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I[2] statistic. Publication bias was assessed using Egger regression, Kendall's Tau, and the Fail-safe N calculation.

RESULTS: Eighteen studies were included in the meta-analysis for mortality, six for severity and five for mechanical ventilation. T2DM was significantly associated with higher mortality (OR = 3.66, 95% CI: 2.20-5.11, p < 0.001), higher severity (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.02-2.92, p < 0.001), and higher need for mechanical ventilation (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.18-3.49, p < 0.001). Heterogeneity was high for mortality (I[2] = 83.83%) but low for severity and mechanical ventilation (I[2] = 0%). No significant publication bias was found.

CONCLUSIONS: T2DM is associated with significantly worse outcomes in COVID-19 patients, including higher mortality, higher severity and a greater likelihood of needing mechanical ventilation. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions and management strategies for individuals with T2DM during the ongoing pandemic. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms and exploring strategies to mitigate these risks.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality/complications/therapy
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/mortality
Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Severity of Illness Index
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40389321,
year = {2025},
author = {Nagappan, PG and Tan, SRX and Absar, S and Brown, S and Sayers, S and McManus, A and Arora, A and Kuhn, I and Khan, F and Lau, E and Tulinius, C},
title = {Changes in medical student attendance at in-person teaching sessions: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e091768},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091768},
pmid = {40389321},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *Students, Medical/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Education, Distance ; *Teaching ; *Education, Medical, Undergraduate ; *Education, Medical ; United Kingdom ; Schools, Medical ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on medical education, with many institutions shifting to online learning to ensure the safety of students and staff. However, there appears to be a decline in in-person attendance at medical schools across the UK and worldwide following the relaxation of social distancing rules and the reinstatement of in-person teaching. Importantly, this trend was also observed before the pandemic. While reflected within the literature, there is currently no systematic review describing these changes. We aim to find out how medical students' attendance is changing as documented within the literature and its impact on their educational outcomes.

METHODS: This systematic review followed the guidelines of the Centre of Research and Dissemination, Moose and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. We searched the major databases of Medline via Ovid, Embase via Ovid, Scopus, Web of Science, British Education Index via EBSCOhost and ERIC via EBSCOhost in September 2023. Two reviewers independently screened each paper and extracted the data, with a third reviewer for dispute resolution. All studies reporting on medical students from various universities, both graduate and undergraduate, and describing changes in attendance and/or students' educational outcomes were included. Risk of bias in individual studies was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality tool. A narrative synthesis of the findings from all included studies was done.

RESULTS: 12 papers were included in the analysis.

PRIMARY AIM: Of the eight papers that measured attendance data over more than one academic year, only one paper demonstrated a statistically significant decrease while one paper demonstrated a statistically significant increase in attendance over the observational period. Other papers either did not perform statistical tests or did not demonstrate statistical significance. Secondary aims: Most papers showed a general positive correlation between attendance and educational outcomes. No studies explicitly explored reasons for changes in attendance seen. Only one paper outlined a possible strategy to address changes in attendance, a mandatory attendance policy, which has mixed outcomes.

DISCUSSION: Despite widespread anecdotally reported attendance decline post-COVID-19, overall, there was no consistent change in attendance noted. However, there was a large heterogeneity in the studies included. Further research is required to elucidate trends in attendance and its impact on medical education.},
}

Humans
*Students, Medical/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Education, Distance
*Teaching
*Education, Medical, Undergraduate
*Education, Medical
United Kingdom
Schools, Medical
Pandemics

@article {pmid40389117,
year = {2025},
author = {Rudroff, T},
title = {Climate crossroads: How global warming drives coronavirus emergence, the long COVID crisis of tomorrow, and AI's role in navigating our future.},
journal = {Infectious diseases now},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105091},
doi = {10.1016/j.idnow.2025.105091},
pmid = {40389117},
issn = {2666-9919},
abstract = {This narrative review examines the critical nexus between climate change, coronavirus emergence, and Long COVID-a triad that may shape public health outcomes for generations. Climate change disrupts ecological balances that have historically limited viral spillover events, creating novel interfaces between wildlife reservoirs and human populations. The coronavirus family presents particular concern due to its diversity, adaptability, and demonstrated capacity for cross-species transmission. With over 200 coronaviruses identified in bat populations alone, this vast reservoir of genetic diversity, combined with the family's propensity for recombination, creates substantial pandemic potential that climate disruption may further amplify. Long COVID has revealed another dimension of the coronavirus threat: the potential for significant chronic disease burden following acute infection. This complex multisystem condition affects a substantial portion of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals, with mechanisms including viral persistence, autoimmunity, microclot formation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Future projections suggest that climate change could increase global viral spillover risk by 30-45% by 2070, particularly in Southeast Asia, Central Africa, and parts of South America. Artificial intelligence offers promising tools for addressing these interconnected challenges through enhanced surveillance, accelerated therapeutic development, and optimized healthcare delivery. Understanding the climate-coronavirus-chronic illness nexus has become essential to the development of resilient health systems and effective planetary health policies face to an uncertain future.},
}

@article {pmid40388534,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, T and Brickwood, S and Buss, K and Tran, V and Parsons, D and Wisely, K and Gillett, K and Lavis, H and Heaney, S},
title = {Virtually delivered lifestyle interventions for overweight and obese pregnant people: A systematic review.},
journal = {Women's health (London, England)},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {17455057251336292},
doi = {10.1177/17455057251336292},
pmid = {40388534},
issn = {1745-5065},
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; Telemedicine ; *Overweight/therapy ; *Obesity/therapy ; *Pregnancy Complications/prevention & control/therapy ; Gestational Weight Gain ; Exercise ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Life Style ; *Pregnant People ; Adult ; Prenatal Care/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Gestational weight gain (GWG) impacts both foetal and maternal health outcomes, with excessive GWG in overweight and obese people further increasing the risk of complications for this population. Lifestyle changes including consuming a healthy diet and physical activity are core strategies for management. Since 2020 and the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, use of telehealth has increased; however, little is known about the effectiveness of virtually delivered strategies for maintaining healthy gestational weight during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the effect of virtually delivered lifestyle interventions on promoting healthy GWG and reducing maternal and foetal complications associated with excessive GWG, with the view to inform future clinical practice.

DESIGN: This systematic review followed preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and targeted quantitative studies assessing virtually delivered lifestyle interventions for maintaining healthy gestational weight for overweight and obese pregnant individuals aged 18 and older.

DATA SOURCES AND METHODS: Six databases (MEDLINE, CINHAL, EMBASE, EMCARE, MIDIRS and APA PsycINFO) were searched using a rigorous search strategy. Data extraction investigated mode of telehealth delivery, intervention type and GWG outcomes. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool and risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias assessment (RoB-2).

RESULTS: Nine studies met inclusion criteria and within those studies, six different telehealth modalities were identified. Interventions varied and included GWG tracking, step counts, diet and exercise goal setting. Effectiveness of studies was inconsistent, with five studies demonstrating lower GWG.

CONCLUSION: Results suggest that lifestyle interventions delivered via telehealth may be effective at reducing excessive GWG. The development of targeted interventions integrated into obstetric guidelines aimed at reducing excessive GWG via telehealth platforms should be considered as a strategy not only for pandemic situations, but to increase antenatal care and service access.

REGISTRATION: PROSPERO International Prospective Register on 26 January 2023 (CRD42023392095).},
}

Humans
Pregnancy
Female
Telemedicine
*Overweight/therapy
*Obesity/therapy
*Pregnancy Complications/prevention & control/therapy
Gestational Weight Gain
Exercise
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Life Style
*Pregnant People
Adult
Prenatal Care/methods
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40387617,
year = {2025},
author = {Ogini, F and Elesho, R and Awuonda, M},
title = {Assessment of Patients' Postpandemic Perception of Telehealth Utilization: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/tmj.2024.0604},
pmid = {40387617},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {Background: Studies have reported telehealth benefits, focusing on telehealth performance during the pandemic. However, there is a need to assess the persistence of patients' satisfaction beyond the pandemic. The objective of this work was to evaluate patient satisfaction, acceptance, and utilization of telehealth in the postpandemic years, highlighting significant barriers and potential areas for future studies. Methods: Published studies were identified from PubMed and Scopus databases from January 2022 to January 2024. Predesigned inclusion/exclusion criteria and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flow diagram were applied. Search terms related to "Post-pandemic," "Patient satisfaction," and "Telehealth" were used, and the primary outcomes of interest (patients' perception and satisfaction) were extracted from the articles. Results: A total of 228 articles were obtained from the literature search. After screening, 17 articles were included in the study. Most studies recorded sustained satisfaction and a decrease in utilization early postpandemic. Recurring areas of concern reported by patients were barriers related to patient-physician communication, the ineffectiveness of telehealth due to a lack of physical examination, and the preference for telehealth for less severe conditions. Individuals without prior telehealth experience had the lowest tendency to utilize telehealth. Treatment time, reduced trust in specialist competency, and lack of familiarity with telehealth modality were identified as nonconventional factors influencing telehealth utilization. Conclusion: Telehealth remains an essential form of care delivery in the postpandemic years. This review emphasizes the need for more up-to-date research on patients' telehealth perceptions. The recurring barriers, emerging nonconventional factors, and telehealth optimization for less preferred visit types are areas for future research.},
}

@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.},
}