@article {pmid40476637,
year = {2025},
author = {Rahmati, M and Udeh, R and Kang, J and Dolja-Gore, X and McEvoy, M and Kazemi, A and Soysal, P and Smith, L and Kenna, T and Fond, G and Boussat, B and Nguyen, DC and Do, H and Tran, BX and Veronese, N and Yon, DK and Boyer, L},
title = {Long-Term Sequelae of COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Symptoms 3 Years Post-SARS-CoV-2 Infection.},
journal = {Journal of medical virology},
volume = {97},
number = {6},
pages = {e70429},
doi = {10.1002/jmv.70429},
pmid = {40476637},
issn = {1096-9071},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/physiopathology ; Fatigue/epidemiology ; Dyspnea/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Prevalence ; Sleep Wake Disorders/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Survivors ; },
abstract = {The symptoms of long COVID are well-documented. However, the long-term effects beyond 2 years remain poorly understood due to a lack of data. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence of persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors 3 years following initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), CENTRAL, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase were searched from inception of the databases up to July 20, 2024, by two independent researchers for articles reporting on the prevalence of persistent symptoms 3 years' post-infection of people who survived COVID-19 infection. We employed a random-effect model for the pooled analysis, and the meta-analytical effect size was prevalence for the applicable end-points, I[2] statistics, and quality assessment of included studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Eleven articles were included after the literature search yielded 223 potentially relevant articles. We found that among patients with long COVID, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and dyspnea were the most common symptoms. Pooled analysis showed that the proportion of individuals experiencing at least one persistent symptom 3 years post-COVID-19 is 20% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8-43). The prevalence of persistent symptoms was dyspnea (12%; 95% CI: 10-15), fatigue (11%; 95% CI: 6-20), insomnia (11%; 95% CI: 2-37), loss of smell (7%; 95% CI: 5-8), loss of taste (7%; 95% CI: 3-16), and anxiety (6%; 95% CI: 1-32). Prevalence of other findings include impaired diffusion capacity (42%; 95% CI: 34-50) and impaired forced expiratory volume in 1 s (10%; 95% CI: 8-12). Our findings confirm the persistence of unresolved symptoms 3 years post-COVID-19 infection, with implications for future research, healthcare policy, and patient care.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/physiopathology
Fatigue/epidemiology
Dyspnea/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Prevalence
Sleep Wake Disorders/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Survivors

@article {pmid40475715,
year = {2025},
author = {Caramoci, A and Smaranda, AM and Drăgoiu, TS and Bădărău, IA},
title = {ECG Screening in Athletes: A Systematic Review of Sport, Age, and Gender Variations.},
journal = {Reviews in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {38209},
pmid = {40475715},
issn = {2153-8174},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The electrocardiogram (ECG) screening in athletes is essential due to the unique cardiac adaptations induced by intensive training. However, differentiating between physiological adaptations and pathological abnormalities remains a significant challenge, particularly when considering variations across different sports, ages, and genders.

METHODS: A systematic review of observational studies published between 2015 and 2025 was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data were extracted from 20 studies examining ECG changes in athletes across endurance, strength, and mixed sports, encompassing both adolescent and adult populations.

RESULTS: Commonly observed ECG changes included increased QRS amplitude, T-wave inversions, and sinus bradycardia, particularly in endurance athletes, while strength-based athletes frequently exhibited left ventricular hypertrophy. Male athletes showed higher QRS voltages, longer QRS durations, and higher PR intervals, whereas female athletes demonstrated elevated resting heart rates and prolonged corrected QT interval (QTc) intervals. Adolescents who engaged in regular sports displayed fewer abnormal ECG findings than adults; however, high-intensity training in adolescent athletes was associated with right atrial enlargement and increased P-wave duration. Detraining effectively reversed certain ECG changes, including prolonged QT intervals and T-wave abnormalities, though these changes often reappeared upon resumption of intense training. Notably, de novo ECG abnormalities, such as T-wave inversions and ST-segment depression, were identified in athletes with post-COVID-19 infections. This review also highlights the financial burden of widespread ECG screening, but reinforces the importance of ECG screening in preventing sudden cardiac death (SCD) through comprehensive cardiac evaluations.

CONCLUSION: This review emphasizes the complexity of ECG interpretation in athletes, highlighting sport-specific, gender-based, and age-related variations. The persistent high false-positive rates underscore the need for refined, sport-specific ECG guidelines. Recent recognition of sports medicine as a primary specialty within the European Union (EU) reinforces the importance of comprehensive physician training. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology into ECG screening can enhance diagnostic accuracy, reduce costs, and facilitate large-scale implementation. Meanwhile, collaborative efforts among clinicians, researchers, and policymakers are essential to developing cost-effective and standardized ECG screening protocols, ensuring improved athlete care, and advancing the field of sports cardiology.},
}

@article {pmid40475275,
year = {2025},
author = {Udoh, EE and Udoh, UA and Egwuenu, A and Esu, EB and Eteng, A and Ovat, FE and Okomo, U and Oduwole, O and Okebe, J and Meremikwu, M},
title = {Soap and water cleaning versus bleach-based cleaners for eliminating SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {612},
pmid = {40475275},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Households and community settings are important hubs for the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). As understanding of viral transmission improves, infection prevention and control (IPC) policies need to be updated.

AIM: To compare the effectiveness of soap and water alone to bleach-based cleaners in eliminating SARS-CoV-2 infection in households and community settings.

SETTING: We conducted a virtual search through the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane database of systematic reviews, PubMed, EMBASE, and Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC).

METHODS: We assessed studies which compared the effect of soap and water cleaning on SARS-CoV-2 among humans to that of bleach-based cleaning, both in households and communities. We prioritised systematic reviews and randomised studies and only included other study designs, such as laboratory studies, which had interventions of relevant interest.

RESULTS: We retrieved 1192 articles from the search. We summarised evidence from three laboratory studies as there were no randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or comparative effectiveness studies that met our inclusion criteria. Indirect evidence suggests that soap and bleach-based cleaners were effective at different concentrations. Substantial heterogeneity between the cited studies precludes any inference on effectiveness in reducing risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans. Both interventions remain important components of IPC measures.

CONCLUSION: There was no evidence for comparison of soap and water versus bleach-based cleaners against SARS-CoV-2 in humans in household and community settings. Indirect evidence shows both interventions to be effective against the virus.

CONTRIBUTIONS: Primary studies addressing this critical question are required to guide public health recommendations and policies.},
}

@article {pmid40474772,
year = {2025},
author = {Gupta, G and Buonsenso, D and Wood, J and Mohandas, S and Warburton, D},
title = {Mechanistic Insights Into Long Covid: Viral Persistence, Immune Dysregulation, and Multi-Organ Dysfunction.},
journal = {Comprehensive Physiology},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {e70019},
doi = {10.1002/cph4.70019},
pmid = {40474772},
issn = {2040-4603},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications/virology/physiopathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Multiple Organ Failure/immunology/virology/etiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Long Covid is a post-viral syndrome characterized by persistent symptoms targeting multiple organ systems after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Current literature suggests that the mechanisms causing Long Covid involve viral persistence, immune dysregulation, systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances. By forming reservoirs in the tissues of various organs, SARS-CoV-2 may evade immunological clearances while triggering immune responses and contributing to chronic symptoms through cytokine imbalances, T-cell exhaustion, and systemic inflammation. These symptoms parallel other post-viral syndromes such as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), suggesting similar mechanisms of pathology. The coronavirus has also been linked to neuroinflammation and endothelial dysfunction causing cognitive symptoms and cardiovascular complications. Furthermore, its ability to lower energy production links it to post-exertion malaise (PEM) and muscle pain. These symptoms may result from iron dysregulation and persistent oxidative stress due to Covid-impaired mitochondrial function. This review synthesizes current data on the mechanisms that drive Long Covid pathogenesis and explores potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate viral persistence, immune dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances. It is critical to understand these interactions to develop targeted interventions that address the long-term sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection and improve patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications/virology/physiopathology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Multiple Organ Failure/immunology/virology/etiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Animals

@article {pmid40473269,
year = {2025},
author = {Andresen, K and Carreira, H and Jain, R and Forbes, H and Williamson, E and Quint, JK and Bhaskaran, K},
title = {Associations between cancer survivorship and subsequent respiratory disease: a systematic literature review.},
journal = {BMJ open respiratory research},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjresp-2024-002681},
pmid = {40473269},
issn = {2052-4439},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cancer Survivors/statistics & numerical data ; *Survivorship ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/epidemiology/etiology ; *Neoplasms/complications ; Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The population of cancer survivors is growing. Some cancers and their treatments may lead to long-term adverse respiratory issues. This systematic review aims to summarise the evidence on the association between cancer survivorship and long-term respiratory health, across a range of cancer types.

METHODS: We searched Cochrane, Embase and MEDLINE up until 23 February 2025 for cohort or nested case-control studies comparing incident respiratory outcomes in people with a history of cancer versus population-based cancer-free controls. We required studies to include follow-up time beyond the period of active cancer treatment. Outcomes included acute respiratory infections and chronic respiratory conditions. Study quality was assessed using The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network methodology checklists.

RESULTS: We identified 34 eligible cohort studies. Cancer survivors' cohort sizes ranged from 1325 to >8 million. Only 4 out of 34 studies adjusted for smoking, leading to most studies being rated as low quality. Four of the 21 studies of acute respiratory infections were rated as acceptable/high quality, and of these, all observed raised risks, notably among survivors of haematological, head and neck, lung and oesophageal cancers. Of 19 studies of chronic respiratory conditions, 1 was rated as high quality, finding increased risks of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonitis in survivors of head and neck cancer. The remaining studies found increased risks of adverse outcomes from acute respiratory infections in 17 of 21 cancer types for which data were available, and of COPD in cervical, head and neck, lung, oesophageal, oral, stomach, thyroid and vulva cancers.

DISCUSSION: These findings suggest increased risks of a range of respiratory conditions in survivors of some cancers. Much of the evidence is compromised by a lack of control for key potential confounders, like smoking. Future studies should address this limitation and investigate the drivers of respiratory risks in cancer survivors. Improved evidence could inform mitigation strategies and lead to better survivorship care plans.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022311557.},
}

Humans
*Cancer Survivors/statistics & numerical data
*Survivorship
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/epidemiology/etiology
*Neoplasms/complications
Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40473220,
year = {2025},
author = {Malune, P and Esposito, F and Tramontano, E},
title = {Unveiling SARS-CoV-2's heart: role, structure and inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.},
journal = {Antiviral research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106208},
doi = {10.1016/j.antiviral.2025.106208},
pmid = {40473220},
issn = {1872-9096},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 emergence in late 2019 represented an incredible challenge for virological research and the development of novel as well as repurposed antiviral agents. Among the targeted viral proteins, one is nsp12 that carries the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) activity, essential for the viral replication. Together with nsp7 and nsp8 cofactors, having an essential role in aiding processivity and associated with several other nonstructural proteins such as helicase, methyltransferase, endo- and exonuclease, nsp12 forms the large viral replication and transcription complex (RTC). Within such RTC, nsp12 catalyzes the synthesis of one of the longest RNA genomes in the viral world, requiring exceptional speed, processivity and fidelity compared to other viral RdRps. Moreover, the peculiar replication cycle of coronaviruses requires nsp12 to perform less conventional functions in backtracking on the viral genome for proof-reading activity and "jumping" during discontinuous synthesis of subgenomic mRNAs. The structure of the minimal RTC was resolved with a resolution < 3 Å by cryo-electron microscopy in complex with RNA and with inhibitors, opening the doors to structural studies on its functions and drug development. Given its essential role in viral replication, extensive research was carried out over the last years to identify both nucleoside (NI) and non-nucleoside (NNI) inhibitors, resulting in two NIs reaching clinical use, although their efficacy in vivo is still under evaluation. This review aims at summarizing the currently known structural and functional aspects and the state-of-the art in drug discovery for SARS-CoV-2 RdRp.},
}

@article {pmid40472669,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammadi, S and Sisay, MM and Saraswati, PW and Osman, AK and Zuithoff, NPA and Weibel, D and Sturkenboom, M and Ahmadizar, F},
title = {COVID-19 vaccine safety studies among special populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 120 observational studies and randomized clinical trials.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {61},
number = {},
pages = {127342},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127342},
pmid = {40472669},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 vaccines were rapidly developed and tested, but concerns about vaccine-related adverse events remain, especially in special groups like pregnant women, children, and those with certain health conditions. This review aims to summarize rates of such adverse events in individuals often not included in randomized clinical trials (RCT).

METHOD: From December 2019 to February 2022, we searched Embase and Medline for observational studies and RCTs on adverse events post-COVID-19 vaccination in special populations. We examined severe and non-severe events in individuals with specific medical conditions, infants, children, pregnant individuals, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals. Cumulative risks for all events were calculated. The Incidence rate (IR) and 95% confidence intervals were reported for those studies that met the follow-up period criteria based on the referenced literature. For events with data on exposed and unexposed groups, we calculated the odds ratio (OR). Pooled incidence rates were calculated per 1000,000 person-days using a random-effects model. Sub-group analyses were conducted based on vaccine types and doses, with heterogeneity assessed using I[2].

RESULTS: Of the 4,254 papers, 235 met eligibility criteria, including 120 studies with 171,073 participants (113 observational, eight RCTs). We examined 17 severe and seven non-severe adverse event categories. Lymphadenopathy (IR: 1950[1200,3190]), autoimmune disease and multiple sclerosis flare-up (1130 [470,2680]), and cardiac symptoms (0.26[0.00,10.58]) were the most prevalent severe adverse events. Autoimmune disease flare-ups and cardiac symptoms were more common following the second dose compared to the first dose. The overall incidence of serious adverse events was low in children and adolescents, pregnant, autoimmune, and cancer patients.

DISCUSSION: This review highlights COVID-19 vaccine safety in special populations, enhancing vaccination strategies. Further real-world research is needed to validate and extend our findings, especially in addressing safety gaps among special groups.},
}

@article {pmid40471123,
year = {2025},
author = {Alves, MCS and Rego, MS and Silva, RCCD and Silva, RA and Arruda, IES and Paiva-Júnior, SSL and Balbino, VQ},
title = {Gut Microbiota and COVID-19: Unraveling the Gut-Lung Axis and Immunomodulatory Therapies.},
journal = {ACS infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsinfecdis.5c00250},
pmid = {40471123},
issn = {2373-8227},
abstract = {The gut flora modulates immune responses and influences COVID-19 severity. SARS-CoV-2 disrupts the gut microbiota, causing dysbiosis, increased intestinal permeability, and systemic inflammation and worsening clinical outcomes. Dysbiosis correlates with elevated inflammatory markers, such as CRP and PCT, contributing to severe complications. Studies show that COVID-19 patients have reduced beneficial bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium spp., alongside increased opportunistic pathogens. This review explores how gut microbiota impacts COVID-19 through predictive microbial signatures and immunomodulatory mechanisms. Therapeutic strategies, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber-rich diets, may restore microbial balance, reduce inflammation, and support recovery. Additionally, we examine the effects of antiviral and immunomodulatory therapies on the gut microbiota and their role in post-COVID-19 rehabilitation. Understanding the gut-lung axis in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis may reveal microbiota-targeted treatments to improve outcomes and prevent complications. As the host organ with the highest microbial diversity, the gut plays a crucial role in viral infections and warrants further research.},
}

@article {pmid40470521,
year = {2025},
author = {Tan, JXR and Oshitani, H and Khanh, LP and Jitpeera, C and Ferretti, L and Cook, AR},
title = {Lessons for future outbreaks from successful contact tracing systems in Asia.},
journal = {The Lancet regional health. Western Pacific},
volume = {58},
number = {},
pages = {101563},
pmid = {40470521},
issn = {2666-6065},
abstract = {Countries around the world had utilized contact tracing to support public health responses to curb transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, countries in East and Southeast Asia had been effective in their contact tracing responses. To understand their successes, the contact tracing systems of Japan, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam were comparatively analyzed, including the technical aspects of contact tracing approaches, detection and response structures. Through the comparative analysis, we uncovered the key elements within these successful systems, namely speed, capture and accuracy, designed specific for the countries' settings. For the system to work efficiently, we found that maintaining the balance across speed, capture and accuracy while adapting to the disease epidemiology and environment was essential. Contact tracing will remain a vital strategy to control the next epidemic with a pandemic potential. The lessons learnt could provide guiding principles to help enhance contact tracing systems and prepare for future outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid40469441,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, X and Jiang, L and Sun, W and Tang, S and Kang, X and Gao, Q and Li, Z and An, X and Lian, F},
title = {Understanding the interplay between COVID-19 and diabetes: insights for the post-pandemic era.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1599969},
pmid = {40469441},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/virology ; Pandemics ; Diabetes Complications/epidemiology ; Blood Glucose/metabolism ; Renin-Angiotensin System ; },
abstract = {The global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has had a profound impact on the onset, progression, and management of diabetes, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This review elucidates the multifaceted impact of SARS-CoV-2 on diabetes mellitus, emphasizing the increased complexity of glycemic management in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection following viral infection in the postpandemic era. In this study, we examined the diverse effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on individuals with diabetes. These effects included an elevated risk of morbidity, erratic fluctuations in blood glucose levels, the emergence of complications associated with diabetes, and the emergence of challenges related to self-management of the disease. From a mechanistic perspective, we investigated the following factors: SARS-CoV-2-mediated direct damage to islet beta cells, dysregulation of the RAAS system, impairment of islet function by oxidative stress, and the effects of the integrated stress response, stress response, and reduced adiponectin levels on insulin utilization efficiency and glucose metabolism. Furthermore, viral effects extend to diabetic complications and cardiovascular risk factors, such as coagulation abnormalities, hypertension, and lipid metabolism. This results in an exacerbation of the development of diabetic complications. This review highlights the urgent need for refined management strategies for patients with diabetes during the pandemic and in the later stages of COVID-19. Additionally, there is a need for integrated management strategies to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the long-term outcomes of patients with diabetes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/virology
Pandemics
Diabetes Complications/epidemiology
Blood Glucose/metabolism
Renin-Angiotensin System

@article {pmid40469238,
year = {2025},
author = {Harb, A and Souza-Talarico, JN and Willey, G and da Silva, FC and de Jesus, MCF and Deberg, J},
title = {Loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic: A potential risk factor for post-pandemic cognitive decline in older adults without dementia.},
journal = {Dementia & neuropsychologia},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {e20240256},
pmid = {40469238},
issn = {1980-5764},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated loneliness and social isolation among older adults, raising concerns about their mental and physical well-being. While loneliness's adverse effects on health are well-documented, its specific impact on cognitive health during the pandemic remains under investigation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the association between loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic and cognitive decline in cognitively unimpaired older adults by synthesizing evidence from primary studies.

METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy was employed across multiple databases, including MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (EBSCO), EMBASE, Scopus, AgeLine, and ProQuest, following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were selected to examine the association between loneliness and cognitive function in cognitively unimpaired older adults (aged ≥50 years) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: A total of eight studies were included from 1,384 search results, reviewing data from 10,449 cognitively unimpaired older adults. A total of six studies found significant associations between loneliness or social isolation and subjective cognitive decline (SCD). Only one study linked loneliness to lower objective cognitive performance. Notably, half of the studies considered key covariates, such as depression, which could mediate the relationship between loneliness and cognitive decline.

CONCLUSION: Loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic is linked to SCD in older adults, though objective evidence is limited. The pandemic underscored the long-term impact of social isolation on cognition and mental health, highlighting the need for standardized neuropsychological tools and key covariates in studies to identify those at risk.},
}

@article {pmid40469133,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Hu, J and Xu, Q and Zhang, F and Sun, C and Liu, K},
title = {The efficacy and safety of corticosteroids in treating severe COVID-19 patients: A meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis.},
journal = {Pakistan journal of medical sciences},
volume = {41},
number = {5},
pages = {1517-1525},
pmid = {40469133},
issn = {1682-024X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Corticosteroids (CSs) are often administered for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, the advantages and disadvantages of CSs remain controversial. Accordingly, we performed a meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis (TSA) to ascertain the efficacy and safety of CSs in treating COVID-19.

METHODS: From their inception until April 2023, PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and China Biology Medicine(CBM) were searched to gather randomized controlled trials on the administration of CSs for COVID-19 treatment. Following the literature screening according to the inclusion criteria, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by two reviewers, and then we conducted a meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis using RevMan 5.4 and TSA v0.9, respectively. This meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and the study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023458633).

RESULTS: A total of 6,077 literatures were obtained through the search, and 14 studies were finally included for quantitative meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that the all-cause mortality in the group treated with CSs and standard treatment was significantly lower than that in the control group that received only standard treatment (RR 0.89, 95% CI: 0.82-0.96, P=0.002), with a statistically significant difference. However, the TSA analysis revealed that the cumulative Z value exceeded the traditional boundary value yet did not surpass the TSA boundary value, indicating a possibility of false positive outcomes in the meta-analysis. The incidence of adverse reactions in the group receiving CSs treatment was higher than that in the control group, but the distinction was not statistically significant (RR 1.02, 95% CI: 0.64-1.63, P=0.93).

CONCLUSION: CSs appear to be effective and safe in decreasing the overall mortality of patients who suffer from severe COVID-19; however, further assessment is required to determine adverse reactions and improvements in clinical symptoms associated with CS administration.},
}

@article {pmid40469015,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, L and Feng, H},
title = {Respiratory virus mRNA vaccines: mRNA Design, clinical studies, and future challenges.},
journal = {Animal models and experimental medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ame2.70018},
pmid = {40469015},
issn = {2576-2095},
support = {2021YFA1300301//Grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China/ ; 2018YFA0507101//Grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China/ ; 31730054//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31770900//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 5212016//Beijing Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Respiratory infectious diseases frequently erupt on a global scale, with RNA viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and influenza viruses, posing challenges to vaccine development due to their high mutation rates. Traditional vaccine development cycles are lengthy and struggle to keep pace with rapidly evolving viruses, whereas messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have demonstrated significant advantages due to their short development periods, straightforward production, and low costs. After the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple mRNA vaccines, including Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, rapidly received emergency use authorization, validating their feasibility. The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023 was awarded to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman, underscoring the efficacy of mRNA vaccine technology. In 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Moderna's respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) mRNA vaccine marked the immense potential of mRNA technology in vaccine innovation. This review article summarizes the design, clinical research, and future challenges of mRNA vaccines for respiratory viruses, delving into antigen design, mRNA delivery systems, and advancements in vaccines for multiple respiratory viruses, including innovations in self-amplifying mRNA and circular mRNA vaccines. Additionally, the development of combination vaccines is underway, aiming to provide protection against multiple viruses through a single administration. Despite the significant progress in mRNA vaccine development, challenges remain regarding raw material costs, stability, and delivery efficiency. In the future, with technological advancements and the accumulation of clinical experience, the design strategies and delivery systems of mRNA vaccines are expected to be continuously optimized, thereby enhancing their safety and efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid40468266,
year = {2025},
author = {Conway-Moore, K and Birch, JM and McKinlay, AR and Graham, F and Oliver, E and Bambra, C and Kelly, MP and Bonell, C},
title = {How populist-aligned views affect receipt of non-COVID-19-related public health interventions: a systematic review of quantitative studies.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {2075},
pmid = {40468266},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; PR-PRU-1217-20501//National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Unit Behavioural and Social Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Public Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Globally, there is increasing evidence of resistance to government-led public health interventions in areas such as vaccination, climate change mitigation, sexual and reproductive healthcare, and the implementation of non-pharmaceutical infection control measures. One potential explanation for this could be the documented global rise in populist attitudes, characterised by distrust of scientific, government and other perceived 'elites.' While the effect of such attitudes on engagement with COVID-19-related interventions has been extensively considered and researched, their association with the receipt of other public health interventions is currently underexplored.

METHODS: To understand how populist-aligned views might influence the receipt of public health interventions addressing areas other than COVID-19, we systematically reviewed quantitative research published across thirteen bibliographic databases and relevant websites between 2008 and 2024. All studies were set in member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

RESULTS: Across 30 included studies, the vast majority of which were cross-sectional, we found evidence that populist-aligned attitudes have a negative impact on the receipt of public health interventions including vaccinations, sexual and reproductive health care and preventive health care. We also found preliminary evidence of the negative role of populist-aligned attitudes on the receipt of disease screening related to HIV/AIDS and adherence to non-pharmaceutical interventions during times of public health emergency, such as the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: Although providing limited evidence of causality, the findings from this review suggest the need for future policy in many OECD countries to focus on trust-building between the public and political, scientific, and medical establishments. They also indicate the need for mitigation strategies to overcome the potentially negative impact of populist-style hostility towards out-groups on attitudes related to pressing public health issues such as abortion and family planning, for example by drawing on empathy-centred approaches.

PROSPERO registration number CRD42024513124.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Public Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40466390,
year = {2025},
author = {Movahed, F and Haji Hosseini, F and Heidari, A and Dehbozorgi, M and Ataei, M and Vahidi, F and Abyaneh, R and Bajelan, B and Bakhtiyari, M and Shafiee, A},
title = {COVID-19 vertical transmission from mothers to neonates: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 204 studies.},
journal = {Journal of infection and public health},
volume = {18},
number = {9},
pages = {102825},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2025.102825},
pmid = {40466390},
issn = {1876-035X},
abstract = {This study estimates the prevalence of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and identifies risk factors for mother-to-neonate transmission. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to May 2024 identified 204 observational studies, out of 28,543 records, that included neonates with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 detection via RT-PCR. The overall vertical transmission rate was 4 % (95 % CI: 4 %-5 %), with notable heterogeneity (I[2] = 75 %). Transmission varied based on delivery method, income classification, and region, being higher in lower-income areas and cesarean deliveries. Maternal SARS-CoV-2 detection in breast milk was rare. Neonatal SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibodies were frequently detected, while IgM antibodies were less common. The findings highlight the infrequency of vertical transmission but underline disparities in healthcare practices. Further high-quality studies, especially in low-income regions, are essential for a deeper understanding of vertical transmission dynamics in diverse clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid40465915,
year = {2025},
author = {Borges, LA and Silva, PHBD and Zara, ALSA and Oliveira, ESF},
title = {Health surveillance in tackling COVID-19 in Brazil: a scope review.},
journal = {Ciencia & saude coletiva},
volume = {30},
number = {5},
pages = {e02202025},
doi = {10.1590/1413-81232025305.02202025},
pmid = {40465915},
issn = {1678-4561},
mesh = {Brazil/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Federal Government ; *Public Health Surveillance ; },
abstract = {The management of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil was marked by contradictory statements and controversial decisions by the head of the executive branch and the Ministry of Health, creating uncertainty about the effective implementation of federal actions to control the disease. This study aims to describe the main health surveillance strategies adopted by the federal government to combat COVID-19, with a focus on actions aimed at preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection. This is a scoping review conducted between November 2019 and January 2021, using DECS and MeSH descriptors in four databases, in addition to consulting 85 legislative documents available on the Brazilian government's legislation portal. The analysis included ten scientific articles and identified federal actions related to non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures, decisions on international borders, procurement of supplies, and essential services. The results point to the presence of sporadic strategies for pandemic containment but reveal insufficient surveillance in the face of the number of cases and deaths recorded. The study highlights the lack of robust federal support, which hindered the coordination and planning.},
}

Brazil/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Humans
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Federal Government
*Public Health Surveillance

@article {pmid40465890,
year = {2025},
author = {Santana, LADM and Oliveira, MKC and Carvalho, MVC and Moura, PHM and Barreto, MDS and Santos, MALD and Santos, PLD and Correia, D and Silva, VKDS and Gopalsamy, RG and Trento, CL and Borges, LP and Takeshita, WM},
title = {Cytogenetic Alterations Observed in Exfoliative Cells of the Tongue and Oral Mucosa of SARS-CoV-2-Vaccinated Patients: Report of Two Cases and a Brief Literature Review.},
journal = {Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical},
volume = {58},
number = {},
pages = {e008042025},
doi = {10.1590/0037-8682-0008-2025},
pmid = {40465890},
issn = {1678-9849},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mouth Mucosa/pathology/cytology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *Tongue/pathology/cytology ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; *Chromosome Aberrations ; },
abstract = {The wide distribution of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) in oral tissues, especially in the salivary glands, which are natural reservoirs of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), contributes to the classification of the oral cavity as a potential target for the development of lesions. Despite the effective response produced by next-generation immunizers, the possibility of immune escape by new lineages of SARS-CoV-2 cannot be refuted. Therefore, we describe here the occurrence of cytogenetic alterations in orally exfoliated cells of immunized individuals and, based on the literature review, call attention to the need to monitor these cases in the post-pandemic period.},
}

Humans
*Mouth Mucosa/pathology/cytology
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*Tongue/pathology/cytology
Male
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Adult
Middle Aged
*Chromosome Aberrations

@article {pmid40465774,
year = {2025},
author = {Salmam, I and Dubé, MO and Zahouani, I and Ramos, A and Desmeules, F and Best, KL and Roy, JS},
title = {The impact of long COVID on physical and cardiorespiratory parameters: A systematic review.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {6},
pages = {e0318707},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0318707},
pmid = {40465774},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Respiratory Function Tests ; Adult ; Exercise Tolerance ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the emergence of COVID-19, millions worldwide have continued to experience persistent symptoms months after infection. Among these, physical and cardiorespiratory impairments are frequently reported, but remain poorly understood. This systematic review aimed to identify and synthesize evidence regarding physical and cardiorespiratory impairments in individuals with long COVID, defined as symptoms persisting for at least three months post-infection.

METHODS AND FINDINGS: A structured search was conducted across the MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases to identify cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort studies on physical and cardiorespiratory deficits in adults with long COVID. Twenty-two studies involving 3,041 adults with long COVID were included. Critical appraisal using the JBI-APT indicated that most studies had clear inclusion criteria (17/22), well-defined study populations (17/22), and valid exposure measurements (16/22), though confounding factors were often unaddressed (9/22 unclear or not reported). Findings indicate that while adults with long COVID displayed normal pulmonary function at rest, including Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1), Total Lung Capacity (TLC), and resting Arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), significant impairments in exercise capacity were identified. Notably, all studies assessing the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) reported reduced distances, consistently falling below the 50th percentile of normative values. Additionally, VO₂peak was decreased in most studies (7/10), falling below 80% of the predicted value, indicating impaired aerobic capacity. Lower Diffusing Capacity of the Lungs for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO) values were observed in three out of six studies, with values below 75% of predicted, suggesting impaired gas exchange efficiency during exertion.

CONCLUSION: Despite preserved resting lung function, these findings highlight significant physical deconditioning in Long COVID adults, with substantial reduction in exercise capacity. Routine assessments should include more sensitive measures, such as the 6MWT and VO₂peak, to detect subtle exercise limitations, even in patients with normal resting SpO₂, to better inform rehabilitation interventions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Respiratory Function Tests
Adult
Exercise Tolerance

@article {pmid40465080,
year = {2025},
author = {Wichmann, D and Hoenigl, M and Koehler, P and Koenig, C and Lund, F and Mang, S and Strauß, R and Weigand, MA and Hohmann, C and Kurzai, O and Heußel, C and Kochanek, M},
title = {Diagnosis and treatment of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in critically ill intensive care patients: executive summary of the German national guideline (AWMF 113-005).},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40465080},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {PURPOSE: The executive summary of the guideline aims to provide the most relevant recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit.

METHODS: The guideline's work included a systematic literature search, selection and assessment of the data relevant to the issues identified. Key questions included the areas of epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostics, and therapy. They were discussed analogous to a PICO scheme within the guideline committee, with subsequent working groups proposing recommendations for specific key questions, which were then again discussed and finalized by the entire guideline committee.

RESULTS: In addition to the classic risk factors (persistent neutropenia, allogeneic stem cell transplantation, congenital or acquired immunodeficiency, etc.), decompensated liver cirrhosis, COPD, solid tumours and viral pneumonia (influenza, COVID-19) have been established as risk factors for critically ill patients in need of intensive care. If there is no adequate improvement or even further clinical deterioration of the respiratory status in critically ill patients, the presence of IPA should be considered and appropriate diagnostic tests should be initiated. Diagnostics should include a CT scan of the chest and a broncho-alveolar lavage with culture for moulds, testing for galactomannan and PCR. Isavuconazole and voriconazole are recommended as first-line treatment, liposomal amphotericin B as an alternative, with posaconazole (PCZ) or the echinocandins (as an add-on to azole or polyene treatment) being additional options for salvage treatment.

CONCLUSION: Invasive aspergillosis in critically ill patients represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. If indicated, invasive aspergillosis should be considered and appropriate diagnostic tests initiated. Isavuconazole and voriconazole are recommended as first-line treatment, liposomal amphotericin B as an alternative.},
}

@article {pmid40465040,
year = {2025},
author = {Ma, J and Paltin, D and Buch, KD and Miller-Perusse, M and Jaramillo, J and Horvath, KJ},
title = {Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Care Engagement Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {AIDS and behavior},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40465040},
issn = {1573-3254},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic substantially impacted the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care continuum among men who have sex with men (MSM). While PrEP use during the pandemic has been studied, regional differences in PrEP regulations highlight the need for U.S.-specific reviews. This scoping review evaluates empirical literature on COVID-19's impact on PrEP engagement among U.S. MSM. A systematic search on August 29, 2024, identified articles from PubMed, PsycINFO, and Embase. Eligible studies (a) collected empirical data from U.S. MSM, (b) assessed COVID-19's impact on PrEP engagement, and (c) were peer-reviewed, English-language, full-text articles. Standardized forms were used to extract study information. Study quality was appraised using validated tools for qualitative and quantitative research. Findings were synthesized using descriptive statistics and narrative summaries, categorized by distinct pandemic phases. Of 438 records, 21 studies were included (15 quantitative, five qualitative, one mixed-method), mostly conducted during the lockdown phase. Results showed reduced PrEP use (5.9-35.6%), increased missed doses (8.3-14.2%), and higher discontinuation rates (9.0-33.3%) during COVID-19. Barriers included refill issues (9.0-20.0%), limited access to care (2.5-17.0%), disrupted lab testing (~ 25.5%), and changes in clinic procedures. College-aged youth reported confidentiality concerns after returning home. Qualitative evidence highlighted telehealth and injectable PrEP as promising alternatives. This review reveals significant disruptions to PrEP care for U.S. MSM during COVID-19, a lack of post-lockdown research, underrepresentation of MSM from Northeastern and Pacific regions, and limited use of objective PrEP adherence measures. These findings underscore the need for emergency-prepared PrEP services and expanded telehealth and home-delivery options for future crises.},
}

@article {pmid40464778,
year = {2025},
author = {Barbosa, NL and Rangel Agra Oliveira, T and Nóbrega, LD and Araújo, TTF and Bezerra, SRS and Oliveira, GM and Do Nascimento, RM and Nogueira, PAMS and Tomaz, AF and Fernandes, ATDNSF},
title = {Prevalence and characteristics of respiratory and cardiovascular sequelae in post-COVID-19 syndromes: a scoping review.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2025.2515992},
pmid = {40464778},
issn = {1747-6356},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Post acute and Long COVID-19 are a public health issue, marked by persistent respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms such as dyspnea and palpitations. These complications often extend beyond the acute phase, affecting even individuals with mild or moderate COVID-19. This article reviews the clinical impact of long COVID-19 and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach to management.

AREAS COVERED: A comprehensive literature search was conducted through PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, SciELO, and LILACS to identify studies published up to 28 October 2024, reporting on respiratory and cardiovascular sequelae in long COVID-19. This review examines the prevalence and characteristics of persistent symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and palpitations, as well as the associated risk factors and assessment methods.

EXPERT OPINION: Long COVID-19 represents a significant healthcare challenge, underscoring the need for standardized protocols for diagnosis and treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial to address the diverse symptoms of affected patients. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying pathophysiology, and developing targeted therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40464669,
year = {2025},
author = {Polishchuk, H and Synowiec, A and Zubrzycka, N and Kantyka, T},
title = {Porphyromonas gingivalis: Multiple Tools of an Inflammatory Damage.},
journal = {Molecular oral microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/omi.12496},
pmid = {40464669},
issn = {2041-1014},
support = {2016/22/E/NZ5/00332//National Centre of Science SONATA Bis/ ; 2021/41/N/NZ6/03762//National Centre of Science Preludium/ ; },
abstract = {Periodontitis (periodontal disease [PD]) is a complex inflammatory disease caused by a polymicrobial infection that facilitates the destruction of the connective tissue and bone that support the teeth. PD is highly correlated with cardiovascular disease, low birth weight, preterm osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Porphyromonas gingivalis, a main causative agent of PD, is a non-motile, asaccharolytic, Gram-negative bacterium identified in subgingival, supragingival, and tongue sites in patients. P. gingivalis produces an arsenal of virulence factors, which include fimbriae, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), gingipains and other proteases, P. gingivalis peptidyl arginine deiminase (PPAD), and others. Recently, a number of reports highlighted novel aspects of P. gingivalis virulence. LPS signaling via Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was elucidated; outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) were implicated as the shuttle for inflammatory induction and neurotoxicity, and gingipains were found to disrupt the integrity of blood-brain barrier (BBB). Further, Tpr protease substrate specificity was described in detail, a novel variant of PPAD was identified and correlated with the aggressive disease, and the role of C-terminal domain as the substrate for the Type IX secretion system (T9SS) transport has been unveiled, together with the identification of the first T9SS inhibitors. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the novel research, expanding our understanding of the P. gingivalis correlation with viral infections. These recent findings implicate the need to update the current knowledge of the P. gingivalis virulence factors and provide a comprehensive review of the current trends in P. gingivalis research.},
}

@article {pmid40464430,
year = {2025},
author = {Alalawi, RA and Khriji, SA and Ambusaidi, MA and Al-Saadi, T},
title = {Reviewed Article: Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Metastasis.},
journal = {The Gulf journal of oncology},
volume = {1},
number = {47},
pages = {14-23},
pmid = {40464430},
issn = {2078-2101},
mesh = {Humans ; *Radiosurgery/methods ; *Brain Neoplasms/secondary/radiotherapy/surgery ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Brain metastases pose a significant challenge in oncology, contributing to morbidity and mortality rates. These metastases originates from primary tumors in the breast, lung, and melanoma tumors and has promoted the exploration of several treatment modalities, including stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). SRS is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for brain metastases due to its precision in delivering high doses of radiation with low damage to the surrounding tissues.

METHOD: A search of Scopus database was conducted using key terms like "stereotactic," "radiosurgery," "brain metastasis," and "SRS". Relevant articles were screened based on title, abstract, and full text. The top 100 articles, ranked by citation frequency, were included, and analysed for various details including title, first author, publication year, journal name, journal impact factor, country of first author, country of study, first author institution, corresponding author institution, study design, patient involvement, number of patients studied, primary aim, source of metastasis, and study conclusion.

RESULTS: The top 100 cited articles on SRS for brain metastases were identified, with an average citation of 149 citations per article. The study found that the USA, followed by Japan and Switzerland, produced the highest number of publications on stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastasis. The University of Pittsburgh was the leading institution in the USA. The analysis showed an increasing trend in publications from 2007 to 2017, with a peak in 2010, followed by a decline, potentially influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSION: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an effective treatment for brain metastases, delivering precise high-dose radiation with rapid dose fall-off. This study revealed that the USA, particularly the University of Pittsburgh, has produced the most publications on this topic. This information can help clinicians and researchers identify valuable articles and journals related to SRS.},
}

Humans
*Radiosurgery/methods
*Brain Neoplasms/secondary/radiotherapy/surgery

@article {pmid40462760,
year = {2025},
author = {Fisman, D and Pérez-Rubio, A and Postma, M and Smith, DS and Mould-Quevedo, J},
title = {Maintaining the value of influenza vaccination - the shift from quadrivalent to trivalent vaccines: an expert review.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2025.2515597},
pmid = {40462760},
issn = {1744-8395},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This review provides an expert perspective on the sustained value of seasonal influenza vaccines as they transition from quadrivalent to trivalent formulations, based on apparent elimination of the B/Yamagata strain from circulation and subsequent advice from the World Health Organization (WHO) to remove the B/Yamagata antigen from influenza vaccines. Influenza has a high clinical and economic burden globally. However, coronavirus disease 2019 has created new challenges for managing seasonal influenza by amplifying vaccine hesitancy. Understanding why influenza virus circulation is monitored and vaccines subsequently updated is important for all relevant stakeholders to maintain confidence in the value of seasonal influenza vaccination.

AREAS COVERED: Discussion is provided on the dynamic nature of communicable diseases, influenza virus monitoring and WHO vaccine composition guidance, and maintaining the value of influenza vaccination to individuals, society, and healthcare systems.

EXPERT OPINION: The move from quadrivalent to trivalent influenza vaccines is a result of findings from strain surveillance. Continued surveillance and targeting of vaccines against strains most commonly in circulation to keep effectiveness high, and ensure the highest value of vaccination is vital to prevent influenza infection and severe illness, thus reducing pressure on healthcare systems and reducing the economic impact of influenza outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid40462133,
year = {2025},
author = {Bertoni Maluf, VA and Herrmann, FR and Platon, A and Mendes, A and Dupertuis, YM and De Watteville, A and Heidegger, CP and Genton, L},
title = {Exploring the association between computed tomography (CT)-derived skeletal muscle mass and short- and long-term mortality in critically ill patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Critical care (London, England)},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {223},
pmid = {40462133},
issn = {1466-609X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Critical Illness/mortality ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods ; *Muscle, Skeletal/diagnostic imaging ; *Mortality/trends ; Intensive Care Units/organization & administration/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Low skeletal mass, often present at hospital admission, has been associated with poor prognoses.

AIM: To explore the association between computed tomography (CT)-derived skeletal muscle mass at the lumbar level and short- and long-term mortality in critically ill patients.

METHODS: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we included studies on critically ill adults (≥ 18 years) hospitalized in intensive care units (ICU) that measured CT-derived skeletal muscle mass at the lumbar vertebral level within ± 7 days of ICU admission. The primary outcome was mortality, categorized as short-term (including ICU, hospital, 28- and 30-day mortality) and long-term (> 30 days) mortality. MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched without date restrictions. Study screening was performed using Rayyan, data extraction was guided by a custom-designed tool, and quality assessment was performed using the JBI Cohort Study Checklist. A meta-analysis was conducted, focusing on studies that reported short- and long-term mortality among patients with preserved and reduced skeletal muscle. A prevalence meta-analysis was also performed for studies that reported the size of subgroups with low muscle mass.

RESULTS: Out of 1248 unique records, 35 studies met the inclusion criteria, involving 9366 participants. The majority were retrospective, single-centre studies conducted on four continents and included heterogeneous populations such as patients with sepsis, COVID-19 and trauma. Sample sizes ranged from 36 to 939, with a wide age range, from 40 to 70 s, and a predominance of male patients (62%). Skeletal mass was most commonly reported as skeletal muscle index at the third lumbar vertebra. Studies reported mainly short-term mortality on day 28 or 30. Long-term mortality, measured at 90 days, 6 months, and 1 year, was evaluated in 11 studies. Meta-analyses revealed that low skeletal muscle mass area and index were significantly associated with increased risks of both short (OR = 2.33, CI 1.90-2.87, I[2] = 41.39%)-and long-term mortality (OR = 2.67, CI 1.45-4.92, I[2] = 62.24%). The overall prevalence of low muscle mass was 42% (CI 34-49%, I[2] = 98.2%).

CONCLUSIONS: CT-assessed skeletal muscle mass at the lumbar level on admission to ICU is associated with both short- and long-term mortality. It may serve as a prognostic marker in critically ill patients. Standardized protocols for measuring and defining low skeletal muscle mass in this population are essential to improve comparability across studies.},
}

Humans
*Critical Illness/mortality
*Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods
*Muscle, Skeletal/diagnostic imaging
*Mortality/trends
Intensive Care Units/organization & administration/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40460796,
year = {2025},
author = {Eid, HMA and Al-Kuraishy, HM and Al-Gareeb, AI and Fawzy, MN and Papadakis, M and Almutawif, YA and Alexiou, A and Batiha, GE},
title = {GABA and GABAergic dysfunction in COVID-19: Piecing the puzzle with targeting immunity and several inflammatory pathways.},
journal = {Cytokine},
volume = {193},
number = {},
pages = {156976},
doi = {10.1016/j.cyto.2025.156976},
pmid = {40460796},
issn = {1096-0023},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic disease caused by a new type of respiratory virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The primary factors contributing to inflammatory and immunological diseases in patients with severe COVID-19 are primarily attributed to the excessive activation of T cells and macrophages, resulting in the massive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukins and chemokines. Studies have indicated that the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) possesses anti-inflammatory properties in mitigating certain inflammatory disorders. It has been shown that inflammation and oxidative stress caused by COVID-19 infection may lead to a disruption of GABAergic neurotransmission in COVID-19 patients. GABA and GABA agonists could be potential successful treatments for the management of COVID-19 by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory pathways such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and the nod-like receptor pyrin 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to discuss the potential role of GABA and GABA agonists in the alleviation of inflammatory disorders caused by COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40460495,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Yang, N and Li, Q and Tang, Y and Bai, B and Liu, G},
title = {Intestinal organoids: A novel and ideal in vitro platform for swine enteric coronavirus investigations.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {610},
number = {},
pages = {110595},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2025.110595},
pmid = {40460495},
issn = {1096-0341},
abstract = {Swine enteric coronavirus-derived disease is an acute, highly contagious and infectious disease that causes symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration and high lethality in suckling piglets, posing a serious threat to the global pig farming industry. The main viral pathogens responsible for the disease include TGEV, PEDV, PDCoV, and SADS-CoV. The investigations of these viruses have been severely impeded by the lack of good in vitro culture systems and small animal models. Intestinal organoids are derived from crypt stem cells, which undergo growth, development and differentiation into structures resembling the intestinal tube morphology, thereby serving as an effective model for studying enteric pathogen‒host interactions in a manner that is as close as possible to in vivo conditions. This review outlines the establishment, regulation, and applications of intestinal organoids, with a particular focus on the advancements in research made possible by swine enteric coronaviruses using this model. The limitations of the intestinal organoids model and potential avenues for future improvement are also discussed. Finally, the findings emphasize the benefits of intestinal organoid models in investigating intestinal pathogen‒host interactions and how they will continue to offer a valuable platform for swine enteric coronavirus research with further developments in intestinal organoid technology.},
}

@article {pmid40458900,
year = {2025},
author = {Biagiola, S and Alfieri, N and Di Mario, S and Evangelista, G and Grima, D and Sodo, S and La Torre, G},
title = {The effect of workload on the development of burnout syndrome in Covid-19 intensive care nurses: a systematic review.},
journal = {Rivista di psichiatria},
volume = {60},
number = {3},
pages = {103-116},
doi = {10.1708/4509.45085},
pmid = {40458900},
issn = {2038-2502},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/etiology ; *Workload/psychology ; *Critical Care Nursing ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nowadays, it is well-known that burnout is a syndrome that mainly affects the helping professions. The nursing profession is obviously among those categories of workers that can develop burnout and, precisely because of its proximity to people who suffer associated with high workloads characterized by high emotional impacts.

AIM: The aim of this systematic review is, therefore, to highlight whether the high nursing workload during the pandemic has contributed to the onset of burnout syndrome in nurses who served in intensive care units (ICUs) dedicated to the care of Covid-19 patients.

METHODS: A systematic review was carried out. The main scientific databases were consulted, such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences and CINAHL analyzing all the papers present in literature. Using PRISMA guidelines, fifteen articles were included in the review. The protocol for this review has been registered on PROSPERO, the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024502094). The quality assessment of the articles included in this review was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for observational studies.

RESULTS: In accordance with the literature, all the 15 included studies documented high levels of burnout among ICU professionals, nevertheless those levels were greater than the ones registered in the pre-pandemic period. In Covid-19 era, nurses experienced higher levels of burnout compared to other professions and working as a nurse was identified as an independent risk factor for increased risk of burnout. As reported by all included studies, the overwhelming severity of Covid-19 patients entailed a significant increase in workload for health care providers, particularly nurses. Ultimately, this increase showed a significant correlation with increased burnout risk.

CONCLUSIONS: The review highlights the correlation between workload and burnout of nurses in Covid-19 intensive care units. It is expected that this and other studies will contribute to a better understanding of the importance of assigning the adequate workload to nurses.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology
*Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/etiology
*Workload/psychology
*Critical Care Nursing
SARS-CoV-2
Intensive Care Units
Pandemics

@article {pmid40458684,
year = {2025},
author = {Stolker, JM and Steg, PG and Rossini, R and Prabhakaran, D and Tokgözoğlu, L and Sattar, N},
title = {Could Acute COVID-19 Infection Ignite Thrombotic Risk?.},
journal = {European cardiology},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {e14},
pmid = {40458684},
issn = {1758-3764},
abstract = {With the growing body of evidence of the ischaemic and thrombotic risks associated with recent COVID-19 infection, this expert commentary reviews the data on the cardiovascular risk implications of COVID-19 and considers potential management approaches for these patients. The authors' opinions were gauged against a global healthcare professional survey to measure current levels of agreement, lending support to their validity. While the need for ongoing research to improve the understanding of this disease is appreciated, the authors recognise that there is the potential to transform management approaches to reduce the health impact of COVID-19 infection among high-risk patients, especially those with established cardiovascular disease.},
}

@article {pmid40458419,
year = {2025},
author = {Tenkorang, PO and Awuah, WA and Mannan, KM and Roy, S and Nkrumah Boateng, PA and Asiedu, O and Tahiru, M and Ahluwalia, A and Owusu Bediako, NO and Darko, K},
title = {The transformative power of telemedicine in delivering effective neurosurgical care in low and middle-income countries: A review.},
journal = {Brain & spine},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {104269},
pmid = {40458419},
issn = {2772-5294},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Telemedicine has been integrated into healthcare systems for over two decades, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating its adoption across various medical fields, including neurosurgery. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face significant challenges such as a shortage of neurosurgeons and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Teleneurosurgery offers a crucial solution to these challenges, improving access to specialized care and enhancing patient outcomes in resource-constrained settings.

RESEARCH QUESTION: How has teleneurosurgery been used to enhance access to specialized neurological care and improve patient outcomes in low- and middle-income countries?

METHODS: This narrative review employed a comprehensive search strategy to assess the role of telemedicine in neurosurgery within Low- and middle-income countries. Literature was searched across PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus, using specific search terms related to teleneurosurgery, virtual consultations, and remote monitoring. Various study designs, including clinical trials, cohort studies, and case reports, were included, while isolated abstracts and unpublished studies were excluded. The review synthesizes the evidence to inform best practices in resource-limited environments.

RESULTS: Through remote consultations, pre-operative assessments and post-operative follow-up, telemedicine has become an essential tool to improve patient outcomes and increase access to neurosurgical care, particularly in underserved regions. The ability to conduct virtual assessments and provide specialized care remotely reduces the need for patients to travel long distances, thereby reducing the burden on already strained healthcare systems.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Despite its growing adoption, low- and middle-income countries continue to face challenges such as limited internet connectivity, regulatory barriers, and infrastructure deficiencies. However, mobile health solutions, international collaborations, and capacity-building initiatives are helping to overcome these obstacles. The future of teleneurosurgery in low- and middle-income countries is promising, but sustained investment in technology, training, and regulatory frameworks is essential to maximize its impact and address disparities in neurosurgical care.},
}

@article {pmid40372276,
year = {2025},
author = {Wood, C and Salter, WZ and Garcia, I and Nguyen, M and Rios, A and Oropeza, J and Ugwa, D and Mukherjee, U and Sehar, U and Reddy, PH},
title = {Age-associated changes in the heart: implications for COVID-19 therapies.},
journal = {Aging},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {1340-1367},
doi = {10.18632/aging.206251},
pmid = {40372276},
issn = {1945-4589},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications ; *Aging/physiology/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Heart/physiopathology/physiology ; Oxidative Stress ; Female ; Male ; },
abstract = {Cardiac aging involves progressive structural, functional, cellular, and molecular changes that impair heart function. This review explores key mechanisms, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired autophagy, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage heart muscle cells, contributing to fibrosis and cellular aging. Mitochondrial dysfunction reduces energy production and increases oxidative stress, accelerating cardiac decline. Impaired autophagy limits the removal of damaged proteins and organelles, while inflammation activates signaling molecules that drive tissue remodeling. Gender differences reveal estrogen's protective role in premenopausal women, with men showing greater susceptibility to heart muscle dysfunction and injury. After menopause, women lose this hormonal protection, increasing their risk of cardiovascular conditions. Ethnic disparities, particularly among underserved minority populations, emphasize how social factors such as access to care, environment, and chronic stress contribute to worsening cardiovascular outcomes. The coronavirus disease pandemic has introduced further challenges by increasing the incidence of heart damage through inflammation, blood clots, and long-term heart failure, especially in older adults with existing metabolic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. The virus's interaction with receptors on heart and blood vessel cells, along with a weakened immune response in older adults, intensifies cardiac aging. Emerging therapies include delivery of therapeutic extracellular vesicles, immune cell modulation, and treatments targeting mitochondria. In addition, lifestyle strategies such as regular physical activity, nutritional improvements, and stress reduction remain vital to maintaining cardiac health. Understanding how these biological and social factors intersect is critical to developing targeted strategies that promote healthy aging of the heart.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications
*Aging/physiology/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
*Heart/physiopathology/physiology
Oxidative Stress
Female
Male

@article {pmid40476261,
year = {2024},
author = {Fadlallah, R and El-Jardali, F and Karroum, LB and Kalach, N and Hoteit, R and Aoun, A and Al-Hakim, L and Verdugo-Paiva, F and Rada, G and Fretheim, A and Lewin, S and Ludolph, R and Akl, EA},
title = {The effects of public health and social measures (PHSM) implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic: An overview of systematic reviews.},
journal = {Cochrane evidence synthesis and methods},
volume = {2},
number = {5},
pages = {e12055},
pmid = {40476261},
issn = {2832-9023},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: To systematically review the effectiveness and unintended health and socioeconomic consequences of public health and social measures (PHSM) aimed at reducing the scale and risk of transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS: This review followed guidance about overviews of reviews in the Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions and used the Epistemonikos database's COVID-19 Living Overview of Evidence repository as a primary search source. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2) checklist.

RESULTS: A total of 94 reviews were included, of which eight (9%) had "moderate" to "high" confidence ratings on the AMSTAR 2. Of 16 reviews (17%) reporting applying the GRADE framework, none found high certainty evidence for any of our outcomes of interest. Across the 94 reviews, the most frequently examined PHSM were personal protection (n = 18, 19%). Within multicomponent interventions, so-called "lockdown" was the most frequently examined component (n = 39, 41%). The most frequently reported outcome category was non-COVID-19-related health outcomes (n = 58, 62%). Only five (5%) reviews reported on socioeconomic outcomes. Findings from the eight reviews with moderate or high confidence ratings on AMSTAR 2 are narratively summarized. There is low-certainty evidence that multicomponent interventions may reduce the transmission of COVID-19 in different settings. For active surveillance and response measures, low-certainty evidence suggests that routine testing of residents and staff in long-term care facilities may reduce the number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths among residents. We found very low-certainty evidence about the effectiveness of personal protection measures, travel-related control measures, and environmental measures. Unintended consequences were rarely examined by those eight reviews.

CONCLUSION: We found predominantly low- to very low-certainty evidence regarding the effectiveness and unintended consequences of PHSM in controlling the risk and scale of COVID-19 transmission. There is a need to improve the conduct and reporting of systematic reviews.},
}

@article {pmid40474993,
year = {2023},
author = {Saif-Ur-Rahman, KM and Movsisyan, A and Kothari, K and Conway, T and Tierney, M and Madden, C and Taneri, PE and O'Halloran, JA and Nurdin, N and Murphy, L and Mulholland, D and Tricco, AC and Devane, D},
title = {Effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies: A scoping review.},
journal = {Cochrane evidence synthesis and methods},
volume = {1},
number = {9},
pages = {e12030},
pmid = {40474993},
issn = {2832-9023},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Rapid identification of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections by testing potentially reduced coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) cases. Testing strategies varied across countries and during different stages of the pandemic. This scoping review aims to map the available evidence on the effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies for suspected cases and asymptomatic populations to inform the development of World Health Organization recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies.

METHODS: We followed the standard methods for scoping reviews. We searched Medline (OVID), EMBASE (Elsevier), and Europe PMC using a comprehensive search strategy. The search was conducted in January 2023 and covered the period from January 2020 to January 2023. Two review authors independently screened the titles and abstracts, and full texts. Data were extracted onto a pilot-tested form by a review author and cross-checked by another review author. We provided a descriptive report summarizing the extracted data around the outcomes and created an interactive map of the available evidence using the evidence for policy and practice mapper.

RESULTS: We identified 34,550 citations from the databases. After the screening, we included 17 studies from 11 countries for data extraction. The study designs were randomized controlled trials (n = 3), nonrandomized experimental studies (n = 3), cohort studies (n = 3), cross-sectional studies (n = 4), self-controlled case series (n = 1), and economic evaluations (n = 3).  Among the included studies, 14 used reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and 10 studies used antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic test. The settings of the studies were healthcare facilities (n = 8), communities (n = 4), schools, and workplaces (n = 3). Included studies considered symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, or both, or asymptomatic contacts. Most of the studies (n = 14) reported the COVID-19 positivity rate as the primary outcome. Other reported outcomes are the number of COVID-19 cases (n = 11), number of hospitalizations and deaths (n = 3), and cost (n = 3).

CONCLUSION: We identified evidence gaps in the effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies, particularly in specific settings such as schools and long-term care facilities. This scoping review provides a foundation for further research, allowing researchers and stakeholders to focus on addressing the identified gaps.},
}

@article {pmid40476872,
year = {2023},
author = {Leo, BF and Lin, CY and Markandan, K and Saw, LH and Mohd Nadzir, MS and Govindaraju, K and Shariffuddin, II and Sankara, R and Tiong, YW and Pakalapati, H and Khalid, M},
title = {An overview of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and engineering strategies to mitigate risk.},
journal = {Journal of building engineering},
volume = {73},
number = {},
pages = {106737},
pmid = {40476872},
issn = {2352-7102},
abstract = {The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected every aspect of our lives. To date, experts have acknowledged that airborne transmission is a key piece of the SARS-CoV-2 puzzle. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism of airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 remains unclear. Recent works have shown the spreading of SARS-CoV-2 through numerical modeling and experimental works, but the successful applications of engineering approaches in reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 are lacking. In this review, the environmental factors that influence the transmission risk of SARS-CoV-2, such as ventilation flow rates, humidity, and temperature, are discussed. Besides, additional macro and micro weather factors, regional and global transmission, and the variants of the spread of SARS-CoV-2 are also reviewed. Engineering approaches that practically reduce the risks of SARS-CoV-2 transmissions are reported. Given the complex human behavior, environmental properties, and dynamic nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it is reasonable to summarize that SARS-CoV-2 may not be eradicated even with the timely implementation of interventions. Therefore, more research exploring the potential cost-effective ways to control the transmission rate of SARS-CoV-2 may be a worthwhile pursuit to moderate the current crisis.},
}

@article {pmid40476929,
year = {2023},
author = {Fanzo, J and Miachon, L},
title = {Harnessing the connectivity of climate change, food systems and diets: Taking action to improve human and planetary health.},
journal = {Anthropocene},
volume = {42},
number = {},
pages = {100381},
pmid = {40476929},
issn = {2213-3054},
abstract = {With climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing conflicts, food systems and the diets they produce are facing increasing fragility. In a turbulent, hot world, threatened resiliency and sustainability of food systems could make it all the more complicated to nourish a population of 9.7 billion by 2050. Climate change is having adverse impacts across food systems with more frequent and intense extreme events that will challenge food production, storage, and transport, potentially imperiling the global population's ability to access and afford healthy diets. Inadequate diets will contribute further to detrimental human and planetary health impacts. At the same time, the way food is grown, processed, packaged, and transported is having adverse impacts on the environment and finite natural resources further accelerating climate change, tropical deforestation, and biodiversity loss. This state-of-the-science iterative review covers three areas. The paper's first section presents how climate change is connected to food systems and how dietary trends and foods consumed worldwide impact human health, climate change, and environmental degradation. The second area articulates how food systems affect global dietary trends and the macro forces shaping food systems and diets. The last section highlights how specific food policies and actions related to dietary transitions can contribute to climate adaptation and mitigation responses and, at the same time, improve human and planetary health. While there is significant urgency in acting, it is also critical to move beyond the political inertia and bridge the separatism of food systems and climate change agendas that currently exists among governments and private sector actors. The window is closing and closing fast.},
}

@article {pmid40476925,
year = {2023},
author = {Hendrikse, R},
title = {Dissecting pandemic-cum-wartime authoritarianism.},
journal = {International politics (Hague, Netherlands)},
volume = {60},
number = {2},
pages = {470-481},
doi = {10.1057/s41311-023-00448-6},
pmid = {40476925},
issn = {1740-3898},
}

@article {pmid40476921,
year = {2023},
author = {Hussain, A and Kausar, T and Sehar, S and Sarwar, A and Quddoos, MY and Aslam, J and Liaqat, A and Siddique, T and An, QU and Kauser, S and Rehman, A and Nisar, R},
title = {A review on biochemical constituents of pumpkin and their role as pharma foods; a key strategy to improve health in post COVID 19 period.},
journal = {Food production, processing and nutrition},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {22},
pmid = {40476921},
issn = {2661-8974},
abstract = {Progression of today's world has been given setback due to the adversity of a novel, viral, deadly outbreak COVID 19, which raised the concerns of the scientists, researchers and health related officials about the inherent and adaptive immune system of the living body and its relation with healthy diet balanced with pharma foods. Now world is coming out of the destructive pandemic era, the choice of right food can help to build and boost adaptive immunity and pumpkin due to excellent profile of functional and nutraceutical constituents could be the part of both infected and non-infected person's daily diet. Vitamins like A, C and E, minerals like zinc, iron and selenium, essential oils, peptides, carotenoids and polysaccharides present in pumpkin could accommodate the prevailing deficiencies in the body to fought against the viral pathogens. In current post COVID 19 scenario adequate supply of healthy diet, balanced with pharma foods could play a basic role in boosting immune system of the populations. This review covers the pharmacological activities of pumpkin functional constituents in relation with COVID 19 pandemic. Pumpkins are well equipped with nutraceuticals and functional bioactives like tocopherols, polyphenols, terpenoids and lutein therefore, consumption and processing of this remarkable vegetable could be encouraged as pharma food due to its antihyperlipidemic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, immunomodulatory, antihypertensive, antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. Need of healthy eating in current post COVID 19 period is very crucial for healthy population, and medicinal foods like pumpkin could play a vital role in developing a healthy community around the globe.},
}

@article {pmid40476919,
year = {2023},
author = {Mermiri, M and Mavrovounis, G and Laou, E and Papagiannakis, N and Pantazopoulos, I and Chalkias, A},
title = {Association of vasopressors with mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Anesthesiology and perioperative science},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {10},
pmid = {40476919},
issn = {2731-8389},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Exogenous catecholamines may have pronounced side effects and affect physiological cascades. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vasopressors on mortality of critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted for relevant articles until December 2022. Eligibility criteria were randomized controlled and non-randomized trials. The primary outcome was in-hospital and 30-day mortality. The quality of studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) tool, while paired meta-analysis was used to estimate the pooled risk ratios (RR) along with their 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI). Analyses of 22 studies (n = 8034) revealed that vasopressor use is associated with mortality compared to no vasopressor therapy [RR (95%CI): 4.30 (3.21, 5.75); p < 0.001]. In-hospital and 30-day mortality are significantly higher in patients who receive vasopressors [RR (95%CI): 4.60 (2.47, 8.55); p < 0.001 and RR (95%CI): 2.97 (1.72, 5.14); p < 0.001, respectively]. Also, analyses of data from 10 studies (n = 3519) revealed that vasopressor use is associated with acute kidney injury [RR (95%CI): 3.17 (2.21, 4.54); p < 0.001]. In conclusion, current use of vasopressors in critically ill patients with COVID-19 may be associated with higher in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality, and incidence rate of acute kidney injury. Further research is required to estimate the correlation of specific vasopressor characteristics (type, timing, dose, combination) with adverse effects and mortality in this population.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s44254-023-00013-7.},
}

@article {pmid40476913,
year = {2023},
author = {Soni, S and Paari, KA},
title = {A review on the immunomodulatory properties of functional nutraceuticals as dietary interventions for children to combat COVID-19 related infections.},
journal = {Food production, processing and nutrition},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {17},
pmid = {40476913},
issn = {2661-8974},
abstract = {COVID-19 is a significant threat to humanity in the present day due to the rapid increase in the number of infections worldwide. While most children may be spared of the direct mortality effects of the disease, those with weak immune systems are prone to adverse effects. Child mortality increases due to the stress caused to the health care system that disrupts essential health care needs such as immunisation and antenatal care. The use of functional foods (FF) aids in disease-prevention as they are known to have protective effects against COVID-19 by boosting children's cellular and humoral immunity. Plant components such as glycyrrhizin, epigallocatechin gallate, allicin, and fucoidan exhibit antiviral properties against various viruses, including SARS-CoV 2. Microbial foods that are made of probiotics, can enhance immunity against various respiratory viruses. Food enriched with additives such as lactoferrin, piperine, and zinc can boost immunity against COVID-19. With proper definitive drug therapy not available for treating COVID-19 and most of the disease management tools rely on symptoms and non-specific supportive care, developing a functional paediatric formulation will prevent further deterioration in infant health. It is wise to investigate the toxicological aspects of Functional Foods components especially when formulating for children. The safe limits of ingredients should be strictly followed during FFs formulation. Stronger regulations with advanced analytical techniques can help to formulate functional foods into the mainstream in child nutraceuticals. The purpose of this review is to compile collective information on the functional nutraceuticals specifically for infants and children up to the age of 10 years that could confer immunity against COVID-19 and other related viruses.},
}

@article {pmid40476908,
year = {2023},
author = {Yang, D and Wang, H and Metwally, AHS and Huang, R},
title = {Student engagement during emergency remote teaching: A scoping review.},
journal = {Smart learning environments},
volume = {10},
number = {1},
pages = {24},
pmid = {40476908},
issn = {2196-7091},
abstract = {Research on student engagement has recently gained popularity as it can address problems such as early dropout and poor achievement. The growing interest in investigating student engagement during the Covid-19 pandemic is reflected in increased publications addressing this topic. However, no review provided research evidence and an overview of existing literature on student engagement during emergency remote teaching (ERT). We reviewed how student engagement studies were undertaken during ERT from three perspectives: (1) the landscape of studies, (2) methodologies issues, and (3) the strategies used to facilitate student engagement. 42 articles were analysed from an initial pool of 436 search results. The findings illustrate that current studies were predominately undertaken in the United States (36%) and China (22%) with focusing on STEM subjects as a dominant discipline. The literature was largely inconsistent in defining and measuring student engagement. In addition, the majority of studies (57%) investigated students' engagement from the perspective of students, unlike other stakeholders. The most prominent finding is that ERT promoted several important engagement strategies, including motivational factors, teachers' facilitation, a hybrid learning model, and using learning technologies to boost students' engagement.},
}

@article {pmid40477251,
year = {2022},
author = {Llinás-Caballero, K and Rodríguez, Y and Fernández-Sarmiento, J and Rodríguez-Jiménez, M and Anaya, JM},
title = {Kawasaki disease in Colombia: A systematic review and contrast with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19.},
journal = {Revista colombiana de reumatologia},
volume = {29},
number = {},
pages = {S66-S76},
pmid = {40477251},
issn = {2027-9000},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute vasculitis with multisystem involvement. Recently, the increasing incidence of a condition that closely resembles KD in many cases, named multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), has set off alarms amid the current worldwide coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Hence, the aim is to conduct a systematic review of the literature about KD in Colombia and contrast it with COVID-19-related MIS-C.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A search was carried out in both international and Latin American electronic databases for publications concerning patients with KD in the Colombian population. Records were then screened by titles and/or abstracts, assessed for eligibility, and reviewed. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. The search included studies reporting MIS-C associated with COVID-19, and compared these patients with our findings of KD in Colombia.

RESULTS: Out of 36 publications retrieved, 17 were included, representing 120 individuals. Male to female ratio was 1.6, and most patients (90.4%) were aged 5 years or less. Among the main features of KD, fever was the most frequent (96.2% of the patients), while cervical lymphadenopathy was present in only 40.6%. Intravenous immunoglobulin was administered in 91.4% cases and 6.2% were resistant. Cardiac involvement was found in around 30%, and 20% had coronary artery lesions. Comparison between MIS-C associated with COVID-19 and KD in Colombia indicates that patients affected by MIS-C were older (72.2% of MIS-C patients > 5 years), had higher rates of cardiac involvement, and required critical care more often.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings of KD in Colombia are consistent with the available descriptions of KD in the scientific literature. Given the increasing rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in Colombia and Latin America, our study raises awareness about MIS-C in pediatric patients with COVID-19 and its relationship with KD.},
}

@article {pmid40477143,
year = {2021},
author = {Naranjo Arango, YA and Farfán Cortés, AYAA and García Henao, JP and Arango Slingsby, C and Saldarriaga Rivera, LM},
title = {[Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children with COVID-19: a rheumatology perspective].},
journal = {Revista colombiana de reumatologia},
volume = {28},
number = {4},
pages = {289-299},
pmid = {40477143},
issn = {2027-9000},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) produced by SARS-CoV-2 has taken on great importance in recent months, and is under constant investigation by different areas of medicine, including rheumatology, in search of the best evidence scientific. In the case of the paediatric population, it is particularly important as it was first thought that the impact of the pandemic in this population would be less due to the low presence of severe cases. Evidence is now being reported of clinical pictures in children with a diagnosis of COVID-19 who are characterised by an altered inflammatory state consisting of a storm of pro-inflammatory cytokines that produces manifestations similar to those presented in autoimmune diseases, such as Kawasaki disease. It has been called Multisystemic Inflammatory Syndrome in children, temporarily associated with SARS-CoV-2 which, in many cases requires hospitalisation in paediatric intensive care units and multidisciplinary management by various specialties.},
}

@article {pmid40477261,
year = {2021},
author = {Xia, X and Wang, Y and Zheng, JC},
title = {Emerging roles of extracellular vesicles in mediating RNA virus infection.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {179-185},
pmid = {40477261},
issn = {2667-3258},
abstract = {The sudden outbreak of COVID-19 has once again shrouded people in the enormous threat of RNA virus. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), eukaryotic cells-derived small bi-layer vesicles mainly consisting of exosomes and microvesicles, share many properties with RNA viruses including structure, size, generation, and uptake. Emerging evidence has implicated the involvement of EVs in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases induced by RNA viruses. EVs can transfer viral receptors (e.g., ACE2 and CD9) to recipient cells to facilitate viral infection, directly transport infectious viral particles to adjacent cells for virus spreading, and mask viruses with a host structure to escape immune surveillance. Here, we examine the current status of EVs to summarize their roles in mediating RNA virus infection, together with a comprehensive discussion of the underlying mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid40477216,
year = {2021},
author = {Huang, Q and Yan, J},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 virus: Vaccines in development.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {131-138},
pmid = {40477216},
issn = {2667-3258},
abstract = {The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is an unprecedented challenge to humanity. Global herd immunity may be necessary before resumption of normal economic and societal activities. Since the beginning of the outbreak, the development of COVID-19 vaccines has proceeded at record speed using nearly all available platforms or strategies to maximize vaccine success. A total of 42 vaccine candidates have now entered clinical trials and encouraging data from several vaccine candidates in phase 1 or 2 clinical trials have been reported. In this review, we examine current COVID-19 vaccine candidates, discuss their strengths and weaknesses, summarize published clinical data and analyze future challenges.},
}

@article {pmid40477151,
year = {2021},
author = {Li, T and Zhang, T and Gu, Y and Li, S and Xia, N},
title = {Current progress and challenges in the design and development of a successful COVID-19 vaccine.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {139-150},
pmid = {40477151},
issn = {2667-3258},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is still a worldwide concern, with little to no sign of a decreasing trend. There is a general consensus that normal life will be hampered until a safe and effective vaccine strategy is available and globally administered. Numerous countries have accelerated the clinical trials process for the development of a successful COVID-19 treatment, with over 200 candidates presently available for testing against SARS-CoV-2. Here, we provide an overview of the COVID-19 vaccine candidates currently in development, discuss the scientific and practical challenges associated with COVID-19 vaccine design, and share the potential strategies that could be exploited for vaccine design success.},
}

@article {pmid40477122,
year = {2021},
author = {Lin, Y and Zhao, Z and Zheng, J and Liu, J and Huang, A},
title = {Realization of humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infections.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {186-188},
pmid = {40477122},
issn = {2667-3258},
}

@article {pmid40477259,
year = {2021},
author = {Scerri, M and Grech, V},
title = {Discussion: COVID-19's impact on sports and athletes.},
journal = {German journal of exercise and sport research},
volume = {51},
number = {3},
pages = {390-393},
pmid = {40477259},
issn = {2509-3150},
abstract = {As major sport events have been cancelled and postponed in response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the necessity to protect and provide a holistic approach to the professional athlete has never been greater. To do so one must understand the negative consequences for athletes in relation to the cancellation and postponement of such events caused by a communicable pandemic. The aim of this paper is to give a brief overview of how athletes were affected during the current COVID-19 pandemic. It will also discuss the role of athletes during a pandemic. Athletes like other celebrities can be role models. They can encourage appropriate behaviours including social distancing to help stall the spread of the virus through social media. The article ends with a short discussion on the resumption of sports after lockdown. In such a context of uncertainty, maximum caution is needed for resumption of sports to ensure a smooth return to previous high levels of training and fitness.},
}

@article {pmid40477247,
year = {2021},
author = {Geng, Q},
title = {The Belt and Road Initiative and its Implications for Global Renewable Energy Development.},
journal = {Current sustainable/renewable energy reports},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {40-49},
pmid = {40477247},
issn = {2196-3010},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article first demonstrates the natural potential of renewable energy development in BRI countries; second, the Rising Power Framework is introduced to investigate the improvement brought by BRI for renewable energy development in host countries. Finally, the political and economic challenges as well as those caused by the COVID-19 pandemic for renewable energy development are also identified.

RECENT FINDINGS: The review shows that the BRI project indeed improved the renewable energy development in host countries, while the scale of renewable energy development, especially solar and wind energy, is heavily dependent on the amount of funding; moreover, the degree of technological improvement is determined by host countries' development needs and absorption capacity.

SUMMARY: In conclusion, this paper proposes a consideration related to the structure of energy investment under the BRI.},
}

@article {pmid40477027,
year = {2020},
author = {Chen, D and Zhu, L and Lin, X and Hong, Z and Li, S and Liu, L and Zhou, D},
title = {Epilepsy control during an epidemic: emerging approaches and a new management framework.},
journal = {Acta epileptologica},
volume = {2},
number = {},
pages = {6},
pmid = {40477027},
issn = {2524-4434},
abstract = {Epidemics are a big threat to world health. The ongoing pandemic of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a series of challenges to public health. One such challenge is the management of chronic diseases such as epilepsy during an epidemic event. Studies on this topic are rather limited and the related medical practice is full of uncertainty. Here we review recent development of potential approaches for epilepsy control during an epidemic and propose a new three-level management framework to address these challenges.},
}

@article {pmid40477081,
year = {2020},
author = {Lakhtakia, S and Ramchandani, M},
title = {Triaging Patients Undergoing Endoscopy During COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {41-43},
pmid = {40477081},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {"Triaging for endoscopy" is the process to determine the most deserving patients after careful scrutiny amongst a pool of patients who report for Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy diagnostic or interventional procedures that include Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD), Colonoscopy, ERCP, EUS and Enteroscopy. The purpose of triaging at endoscopy is to prevent transmission of SARS-COV2 infection from suspected patient to the health care workers involved at endoscopy. The three professional Indian Gastroenterology bodies namely Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy of India (SGEI), Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG) & Indian Association for the study of the liver (INASL) have recently provided guidance of scheduling of endoscopic procedures in the current Covid-9 pandemic. Similar suggestions have been promulgated by other international bodies.},
}

@article {pmid40477080,
year = {2020},
author = {Dhar Chowdhury, S and Oommen, AM},
title = {Epidemiology of COVID-19.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {3-7},
pmid = {40477080},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {COVID-19, an infectious respiratory illness caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV2), has now spread to multiple countries including India. The pace at which the disease spread in the last 4 months, since it was first recognized from China, is unprecedented. This review of the epidemiology of COVID-19 summarizes the burden of infection, transmission dynamics, and other related epidemiological features. While countries such as China, Italy, and the United States have particularly high-rates of infection, the disease is gradually spreading in India as well, threatening the health and economy of the country. Transmission in asymptomatic cases, early symptomatic phase, as well as limited access to testing in different settings are factors that have led to the rapid spread of infection. A large case series from China revealed that 81% of cases had mild symptoms, 14% had severe disease, and 5% were afflicted with critical illness. While the mortality in China was reported as 2.3%, Italy, with a high-proportion of elderly, reported a case fatality report of 7.2% due to higher infection and mortality rates among the elderly. Being a highly infectious disease, with a basic reproduction number between 2 to 3, COVID-19 is affecting a large number of healthcare workers, as evidenced by the fact that a sizeable portion of reported infections in the US included healthcare workers. Delivering health care for both COVID-19 affected individuals, as well those with other acute and chronic conditions, with limited access to healthcare facilities and services, are challenges for the health systems in low- and middle-income countries, which require immediate measures for health system strengthening across sectors.},
}

@article {pmid40477079,
year = {2020},
author = {Gunjan, D and Garg, P},
title = {Indications for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy during the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {33-38},
pmid = {40477079},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {The global pandemic due to COVID-19 presents an unprecedented challenge to mankind including healthcare providers. Many COVID-19 infected patients may present with gastrointestinal symptoms. Endoscopic services may be required in complicated COVID-19 infected or suspected patients. In addition, resource allocation would demand judicious use of endoscopy services. There is a definite risk of transmission of COVID-19 during endoscopy to healthcare professionals. We recommend that only emergency and life-saving endoscopic procedures should be performed during COVID-19 pandemic, and semi-elective procedures should be performed after careful consideration. All routine endoscopy procedures should be deferred till normal hospital services resume. For emergency endoscopy procedures, prescreening of patients is critical to avoid nosocomial transmission. To prevent cross-infection among healthcare professionals, strict infection control measures should be practiced in endoscopy suite while providing essential endoscopic services to the patients.},
}

@article {pmid40477066,
year = {2020},
author = {Zacharias, P and Ahamed, H},
title = {Techniques of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy-Do We Need to Change Anything?.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {55-58},
pmid = {40477066},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread to different parts of the world and was declared a pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO). Health care workers are at increased risk of contracting the disease due to their nature of work and close contact with the patients. Staff in endoscopy need to be aware of this risk due to the aerosol-generating nature of procedures and the presence of virus particles in stool samples of infected persons. The risk of asymptomatic patients spreading the disease is also a cause for concern. This article intends to provide guidance and recommendations for techniques and practice of gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy to prevent infection in endoscopy unit.},
}

@article {pmid40477060,
year = {2020},
author = {Mathew, S and Philip, M},
title = {Personal Protective Equipment during Endoscopy.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {45-52},
pmid = {40477060},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which originated in China has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). This virus gets transmitted through air droplets and direct contact. Health care workers doing aerosol-generating procedures are at a higher risk of acquiring the infection. Many procedures done by the gastrointestinal endoscopists are classified as aerosol-generating procedures, which in turn underline the need for proper safety precautions during these procedures. Apart from general safety measures advised by various organizations, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is a pivotal factor in safeguarding health care personnel during endoscopy. This article provides a short overview of the different PPEs available and their proper use in endoscopy.},
}

@article {pmid40477045,
year = {2020},
author = {Jha, AK and Kumar, R and Goenka, MK and Dayal, VM},
title = {Emerging Treatment and Prevention Strategies against COVID-19: A Brief Update.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {69-72},
pmid = {40477045},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {Patients with novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are at significantly increased risk for mortality and morbidity. Current management remains supportive care, ranging from symptomatic outpatient management to full-intensive care support, including intravenous fluids, invasive, and non-invasive oxygen supplementation. In patients with septic shock, treatment with antibiotics and vasopressors are recommended to keep mean arterial pressure (MAP) ≥ 65 mm Hg and lactate < 2 mmol/L. Because of the lack of effectiveness and possible adverse effects, routine corticosteroids should be avoided unless they are indicated for another reason (exacerbation of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], and septic shock in whom fluids and vasopressors do not restore hemodynamic stability). There is currently no sufficient evidence of efficacy of hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine, remdesivir, and other antivirals in the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. Limited evidence shows that COVID-19 convalescent plasma can be used as a treatment of COVID-19 without the occurrence of severe adverse events. Drug regulatory agencies granted an emergency-use authorization of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine and remdesivir to treat patients when a clinical trial is not available or participation is not feasible. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are associated with QT interval prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Guidelines are issued for use of convalescent plasma in patients with serious or immediately life-threatening COVID-19. Data from several ongoing randomized controlled trials will provide further evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of these drugs for the treatment of COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40477041,
year = {2020},
author = {Patel, DA and Shah, CN},
title = {Navigating Through the Financial Crisis that may Occur during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic for Gastroenterologists.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {76-80},
pmid = {40477041},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {Introduction Considering the specific set of gastrointestinal endoscopy practitioners, it is witnessed that the number of patients forelective procedures are being deferred by the patients amid various concerns ranging from financial constraint to the fear of infection from the dreaded coronavirus. With Routine endoscopy procedures recommended to be safely postponed, the impact on the practice of Gastrointestinal Endoscopists shall be magnified. Assessment and Strategy The article discusses impact and remedial actions that may be taken by Gastrointestinal Endoscopists, which classified into: - Anindependent practitioner - A consultant - An employee The article further touches upon the difficulties that might be envisaged by the Gastrointestinal Endoscopists, and obtain a financial understanding of what could potentially lead to an existential crisis? Those with cash reserves sit in a pleasant position i.e. they can buy assets at an attractive price, experiment with new ideas, research and development, etc. It is imperative in these times to understand the uncertainty cast on operations of Gastrointestinal Endoscopists and prepare a response plan for coming out of this economic crisis. A roadmap also has been devised which provides a possible outline of a plan that can be implemented for handling the economic crisis. It is also important to answer these two questions: 1. Who do I want to be during the crisis? 2. Who do I want to be when this is over?},
}

@article {pmid40477032,
year = {2020},
author = {Setya, AK},
title = {Being Legally Sound in the COVID-19 Era.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {83-86},
pmid = {40477032},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {All the three Indian gastroenterology societies (Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy of India, Indian Society of Gastroenterology, and Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver) jointly recommend to consider only emergency and urgent endoscopy procedures for the next 1 month or till the current threat due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is over. Two laws that are penal in nature are now applicable in the current pandemic, namely the Epidemics Diseases Act 1897 and the Indian Penal Code 1860. No act of an endoscopist should be seen to be in contravention of any of the aforementioned laws, and the sections thereunder as provisions of the Indian Penal Code can be attracted in the current scenario for spreading an infectious disease either knowingly (Section 270) or unknowingly or negligently (Section 269). Section 4 of the Epidemics Disease Act 1897 gives legal protection to every person who has acted under this Act or the directions issued under this Act subject to only one condition, that is, the act must have been done in good faith. Though the hospitals are obliged to ensure personal safety of its staff legally, morally and ethically, because of the huge gap in demand and supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), it is advisable to arrange PPE on one's own to first protect oneself and then, by extension, to prevent the spread to others. The dictum is "take care of yourself." Self-preservation is a supreme law. In the current COVID-19 pandemic conditions, certain additional information, to be agreed upon by the patient, needs to be incorporated in the consent. It should be incorporated in the consent that: • While all the necessary precautions are being taken, there is a finite though small risk that the patient may contract the infection from the hospital. • He/she indemnifies the hospital and the endoscopist against any such liability arising out of any action taken while doing the procedure. • Furthermore, to protect the patient him/herself, he/she agrees to get the preprocedural test for COVID-19 as well as bear the additional cost of the PPE used by the endoscopist and support staff. Several of those who have undergone an endoscopy would require a follow-up consultation. As it is difficult to have physical interaction, teleconsultation may be done as per the telemedicine practice guidelines issued by the Medical Council of India (MCI).},
}

@article {pmid40477030,
year = {2020},
author = {Sud, R and Sud, S},
title = {Way Forward: Gastrointestinal Tract Endoscopy Work Flow Postlockdown Era.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {89-91},
pmid = {40477030},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {Gastrointestinal tract endoscopy being an aerosol generating procedure increases the risk to staff and uninfected patients from a coronavirus disease 2019 patient. Social and physical distancing through "lockdown" has suppressed the spread of disease but will not eradicate it. Various endoscopy societies formulated guidelines to triage the patients and limit the work to only emergency and urgent cases and postpone "routine" endoscopies. Postlockdown infected vector pool will persist till an effective vaccine is widely available. Nonurgent cases cannot be postponed indefinitely. We need to identify infected symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals and create a safe environment for uninfected patients. Endoscopy staff protection through education, optimized manpower flow, and personal protective equipment usage and hand hygiene needs urgent attention. Proper environment sanitization, endoscope, and device reprocessing will remain important.},
}

@article {pmid40477028,
year = {2020},
author = {Rai, P},
title = {Disinfection of Endoscopy and Reusability of Accessories.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {61-66},
pmid = {40477028},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {Corona viruses are a group of medium-sized positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses with crown-like structure due to projections noted over the surface of the virus. The infection has been declared as a pandemic by the world health organization (WHO) in March 2020. Health care professionals in endoscopy are at high risk of infection by novel corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from inhalation of droplets, conjunctival contact, feces, and touch contamination. Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is considered to be a high-risk aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) and the live virus has been found in patient stool. Flexible endoscopes when contaminated have been considered as the vector for transmission of infections. Infections related to the side viewing endoscopes and endoscopic ultrasound scopes are more frequent than upper GI scope and colonoscopes. Stratifying patients needing endoscopy and deferral of elective procedures will help to decrease the virus spread. Planning and revision of workflows is necessary for safety of patient and staff and to successfully provide infection prevention and control measures, for this a "three zones and two passages" concept should be followed. Manual cleaning followed by high-level disinfection (HLD), effectively eliminates nearly all microorganisms from endoscopes during reprocessing. Transmission of viral infections during endoscopy is quite rare and, it is usually the result of noncompliance from the essential steps of reprocessing. Reuse of any disposable GI endoscopic device is strongly discouraged. Environmental decontamination is essential to reduce the risk of fomite transmission. Noncritical environmental surfaces frequently touched by hands (e.g., bedside tables and bed rails) and endoscopy furniture and floor should be considered heavily contaminated in patients with intermediate or high risk of COVID-19 and should be thoroughly disinfected at the end of each procedure. If available, negative pressure rooms are preferred for endoscopy, as has been advised by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Staff involved in reprocessing and the cleaning of endoscopy rooms should utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) including N95 mask. Reprocessing staff should undergo necessary training and ongoing annual assessment of competency.},
}

@article {pmid40477023,
year = {2020},
author = {Rana, SS},
title = {Risk of COVID-19 Transmission During Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {27-30},
pmid = {40477023},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {COVID-19 is a viral illness caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is highly contagious virus with human-to-human transmission being primarily attributed to direct contact or air droplets. It is highly infectious and contagious due to high-viable viral loads in the upper respiratory tract secretions of infected patients and also similar viral load being detected in both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. The virus stability characteristics and modes of transmission via fomites and air droplets make gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy a high-risk procedure for COVID-19 transmission. This review discusses the currently available literature on risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 during GI endoscopy.},
}

@article {pmid40476996,
year = {2020},
author = {Samanta, J and Dhar, J and Khaliq, A and Kochhar, R},
title = {2019 Novel Coronavirus Infection: Gastrointestinal Manifestations.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {13-18},
pmid = {40476996},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {The world is witnessing a major public health crisis in the wake of the third coronavirus strain pandemic, a novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). Although initially thought to be a pure respiratory pathogen, recent reports have highlighted not only the extrapulmonary effects of the virus but also, importantly, the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) effects. Various studies have looked into the effects of this novel coronavirus infection (coronavirus-19 disease [COVID-19]) on GIT involvement with reports of more frequent involvement than previously expected. With feco-oral transmission, debate being conclusively proven with fecal samples testing positive for COVID-19 and longer shedding time, it only underlines the importance of GIT involvement. Moreover, the presence of other GI diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, with COVID-19 infection might wreak havoc leading to poor patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40476992,
year = {2020},
author = {Singla, V and Arora, A},
title = {Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Manifestations of Coronavirus Disease 2019.},
journal = {Journal of digestive endoscopy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {21-23},
pmid = {40476992},
issn = {0976-5050},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a new infectious disease that has spread rapidly throughout the world. The disease is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a member of the Coronaviridae family. Though the pulmonary involvement is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas has been explained in these patients. The literature is rapidly changing because of influx of new information with every passage of time. The most common hepatic presentation is mild elevation of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, which does not require specific treatment. Occasionally, patients can have severe liver injury. Because of underlying predisposing factors such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity, patients with nonalcoholic liver disease may be at risk of severe disease. Patients with decompensated liver disease may also be vulnerable to severe disease. Behavior of SARS-CoV-2 in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C, autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and primary biliary cirrhosis is yet to be seen. The prevalence and severity of COVID-19 patients with the aforementioned diseases may be different. The effect of SARS-CoV-2 on an underlying liver disease is not known. COVID-19 may complicate the peritransplant period and throw new challenges in these patients. Drugs used to treat severe COVID-19 may cause liver injury and may have an effect on the underlying disease activity. Both hepatic and pancreatic involvement is related to the severity of COVID-19 disease. Serum amylase and lipase levels may be elevated in patients with severe COVID-19 disease. The involvement of pancreatic islet cells may lead to deranged blood sugar levels and potentially predispose to future diabetes mellitus. There are many unknown facts that will unfold with the passage of time.},
}

@article {pmid40477082,
year = {2020},
author = {Smith, M},
title = {Review of Neil Selwyn, Felicitas Macgilchrist, and Ben Williamson (2020). Digital Education after COVID-19. TECHLASH, 1.},
journal = {Postdigital science and education},
volume = {2},
number = {3},
pages = {1047-1051},
doi = {10.1007/s42438-020-00184-7},
pmid = {40477082},
issn = {2524-4868},
}

@article {pmid40477047,
year = {2020},
author = {Roos, YH},
title = {Water and Pathogenic Viruses Inactivation-Food Engineering Perspectives.},
journal = {Food engineering reviews},
volume = {12},
number = {3},
pages = {251-267},
pmid = {40477047},
issn = {1866-7929},
abstract = {Water is an essential component of food structures and biological materials. The importance of water as a parameter affecting virion stability and inactivation has been recognized across disciplinary areas. The large number of virus species, differences in spreading, likelihood of foodborne infections, unknown infective doses, and difficulties of infective virus quantification are often limiting experimental approaches to establish accurate data required for detailed understanding of virions' stability and inactivation kinetics in various foods. Furthermore, non-foodborne viruses, as shown by the SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) pandemic, may spread within the food chain. Traditional food engineering benefits from kinetic data on effects of relative humidity (RH) and temperature on virion inactivation. The stability of enteric viruses, human norovirus (HuNoV), and hepatitis A (HAV) virions in food materials and their resistance against inactivation in traditional food processing and preservation is well recognized. It appears that temperature-dependence of virus inactivation is less affected by virus strains than differences in temperature and RH sensitivity of individual virus species. Pathogenic viruses are stable at low temperatures typical of food storage conditions. A significant change in activation energy above typical protein denaturation temperatures suggests a rapid inactivation of virions. Furthermore, virus inactivation mechanisms seem to vary according to temperature. Although little is known on the effects of water on virions' resistance during food processing and storage, dehydration, low RH conditions, and freezing stabilize virions. Enveloped virions tend to have a high stability at low RH, but low temperature and high RH may also stabilize such virions on metal and other surfaces for several days. Food engineering has contributed to significant developments in stabilization of nutrients, flavors, and sensitive components in food materials which provides a knowledge base for development of technologies to inactivate virions in foods and environment. Novel food processing, particularly high pressure processing (HPP) and cold plasma technologies, seem to provide efficient means for virion inactivation and food quality retention prior to packaging or food preservation by traditional technologies.},
}

@article {pmid40476954,
year = {2020},
author = {Liu, Y and Lee, JM and Lee, C},
title = {The challenges and opportunities of a global health crisis: the management and business implications of COVID-19 from an Asian perspective.},
journal = {Asian business & management},
volume = {19},
number = {3},
pages = {277-297},
pmid = {40476954},
issn = {1476-9328},
abstract = {On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak a pandemic. As the evolution and implications of the COVID-19 crisis are still unfolding, we posit that exploring the experiences and strategic responses of Asian countries may shed light on ways to combat COVID-19 for the rest of the world. In this paper, we first articulate the importance of resilience, strategic agility, and entrepreneurship in the context of the fight against COVID-19. Then, with the focus on China, South Korea, and Singapore, we discuss the impact COVID-19 is having on economies and businesses, governmental support for businesses and societies, and implications for global supply chain disruptions. We hope that the global health system will recover quickly, and that the world economy will be revitalized with the contributions and collaboration of science (including social science), industry, and governments.},
}

@article {pmid40458176,
year = {2025},
author = {Anbardar, N and Dixon, SL and Munugoti, S and Gaddam, M and Kashfi, K and Kasulis, L and Messersmith, AL and Asadipooya, K},
title = {Thyroid disorders and COVID-19: a comprehensive review of literature.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1535169},
pmid = {40458176},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Thyroid Diseases/epidemiology/virology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The literature is rapidly evolving with regards to the endocrine consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), including diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, adrenal and pituitary disorders. There is evidence suggesting that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can lead to thyroid dysfunction and long-term sequelae. We aimed to review the current evidence and propose a preventive approach based on the published data since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A comprehensive review of literature was conducted using electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Two authors independently used the keywords "Thyroid, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Graves, Thyroid Eye Disease, or Thyroiditis" and "Coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19" to search these databases. We screened titles and abstracts for initial selection and then reviewed the full text of relevant studies to report the outcomes of published data.

RESULTS: We selected 28 manuscripts. SARS-CoV-2 infection appears similar to other viruses. It affects thyroid function resulting in non-thyroidal illness syndrome, which usually resolves spontaneously. COVID-19 also causes subacute thyroiditis. It may also trigger autoimmunity against the thyroid that leads to autoimmune thyroiditis. Autoimmune thyroiditis or subacute thyroiditis may progress to clinical or subclinical hypothyroidism and clinical or subclinical hyperthyroidism. Patients with pre-existing thyroid dysfunction probably have similar risks of SARS-CoV-2 related adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation of thyroid function is important in COVID-19 patients. Improving the efficacy of treatment against acute SARS-CoV-2 infection can reduce the risks of short-term and long-term complications.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023447994.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Thyroid Diseases/epidemiology/virology/complications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40457666,
year = {2025},
author = {Katasonov, AB},
title = {[Therapeutic potential of quercetin and its derivatives against COVID-19].},
journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova},
volume = {125},
number = {5},
pages = {44-50},
doi = {10.17116/jnevro202512505144},
pmid = {40457666},
issn = {1997-7298},
mesh = {*Quercetin/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Blood-Brain Barrier/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; *Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Antioxidants/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with a wide range of biological activity. This compound does not penetrate the brain well, but under stress, it exhibits neuroprotective properties, probably associated with its effect on the blood-brain barrier (BBB). BBB disruption may be responsible for the invasion of the causative agent of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) into the brain with the development of neurological symptoms. Quercetin can suppress viral replication, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response, as well as prevent the formation of microthrombi. This potential of quercetin may help treat COVID-19 and its long-term sequelae.},
}

*Quercetin/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Blood-Brain Barrier/drug effects
COVID-19
*Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Virus Replication/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Antioxidants/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40457567,
year = {2025},
author = {Marc, A and Schiffer, JT and Mentré, F and Perelson, AS and Guedj, J},
title = {Viral Dynamic Models During COVID-19: Are We Ready for the Next Pandemic?.},
journal = {CPT: pharmacometrics & systems pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/psp4.70055},
pmid = {40457567},
issn = {2163-8306},
abstract = {Mathematical models have been used for about 30 years to improve our understanding of virus-host interaction, in particular during chronic infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these models have been used to provide insights into the natural history of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, optimize antiviral treatment strategies, understand factors associated with transmission, and optimize surveillance systems. The impact of modeling has been accelerated by the availability of unprecedented multidimensional immune data from animal and human systems, which enhanced partnerships between experimentalists and theorists and led to exciting new modeling and statistical developments. In this mini review, we examine the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and discuss the main insights provided by mathematical models of viral dynamics at the different stages of the outbreak. Although we focus on respiratory infection, we also consider the new areas for development in anticipation of future acute infections from new or reemerging pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40457387,
year = {2025},
author = {Moawad, MHED and Abbas, A and Sabet, H and Zanaty, MA and Hamad, AA and Rezkallah, A and Ballut, O and Fayad, T and Elsakka, MM and Eshun, F and Abdelgawad, HAH},
title = {Unveiling protection: a meta-analysis of tixagevimab-cilgavimab prophylaxis in 28,950 transplant recipients and immunocompromised patients against COVID-19.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {178},
pmid = {40457387},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/mortality/immunology ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *Transplant Recipients ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This meta-analysis addresses the efficacy and safety of tixagevimab-cilgavimab as pre-exposure prophylaxis against COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients, particularly during the Omicron variant surge. Given the limited vaccine response in this population, alternative prophylactic strategies are critical.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we comprehensively searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, up to June 22, 2024. We included studies assessing tixagevimab-cilgavimab's impact on SARS-CoV-2 infection rates, hospitalization, ICU admissions, and/or mortality among immunocompromised patients. Data synthesis and analysis were conducted using RevMan and Open-Meta Analyst software.

RESULTS: Analyzing data from 36 studies involving 28,950 patients, tixagevimab-cilgavimab significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection rates by 4.37%, hospitalization by 0.8%, and mortality by 0.5%. Compared to no prophylaxis, the drug combination showed a notable reduction in SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.22-0.50), hospitalization (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.15-0.39), and mortality (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.16-0.66), exhibiting a favorable safety and efficacy profile. During the Omicron surge, tixagevimab-cilgavimab consistently reduced infection risk (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17-0.58).

CONCLUSION: Tixagevimab-cilgavimab offers a significant protective effect against COVID-19, including Omicron variants, in immunocompromised patients, underscoring its role as an effective pre-exposure prophylaxis. Future studies should further explore its efficacy across different SARS-CoV-2 variants and potential synergies with vaccination efforts.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/mortality/immunology
*Immunocompromised Host
*Transplant Recipients
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40457282,
year = {2025},
author = {Umemura, T and Kato, H and Mutoh, Y and Hagihara, M and Ikeda, Y and Mikamo, H},
title = {Safety evaluation of remdesivir administration in patients with severe renal impairment and coronavirus disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {782},
pmid = {40457282},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/complications/mortality ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Renal Insufficiency/drug therapy/complications ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate whether remdesivir (RDV) is safe for patients with severe renal impairment (SRI) and COVID-19, compared to non-SRI patients or those not receiving RDV.

METHODS: This study was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. We searched PubMed, Cohcrane, CINAHL, and Ichushi databases up to October 11, 2024. The outcomes assessed kidney injury, hepatic disorder and mortality. Randomized controlled trials and retrospective and cohort studies reporting kidney injury, hepatotoxicity, and mortality in (i) SRI patients treated with RDV versus without RDV or (ii) SRI patients versus non-SRI patients treated with RDV were included. Targeted patients were defined as adults with COVID-19 based on a positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction or rapid antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 from nasopharyngeal or salivary swabs regardless of symptoms.

RESULTS: One randomized controlled trial and 14 cohort studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final meta-analysis. Among SRI patients, RDV significantly reduced the incidence of kidney injury (risk ratio [RR] = 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.27-0.97) but had no significant difference in the development of hepatic disorder (RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.39-1.98) and mortality (RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.55-1.15). In the comparison between SRI and non-SRI patients treated with RDV, SRI patients demonstrated a significantly higher incidence of kidney injury (odds ratio [OR] = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.49-4.23), with no significant difference in the development of hepatic disorder (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.43-2.53). Meanwhile, SRI patients treated with RDV exhibited significantly higher mortality than non-SRI patients treated with RDV (OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.51-3.22).

CONCLUSION: Our meta-analysis demonstrated that RDV administration in SRI patients with COVID-19 was safe compared to non-SRI or SRI patient treated without RDV. We suggest that the use of RDV should be actively considered for SRI patients.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
COVID-19/complications/mortality
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Renal Insufficiency/drug therapy/complications
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid40456838,
year = {2025},
author = {Cesaro, S and Ljungman, P and Mikulska, M and Hirsch, HH and Navarro, D and Cordonnier, C and Mehra, V and Styczynski, J and Marchesi, F and Pinana, JL and Beutel, G and Einsele, H and Maertens, J and , and de la Camara, R},
title = {Post-pandemic recommendations for the management of COVID-19 in patients with haematological malignancies or undergoing cellular therapy, from the European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia (ECIL-10).},
journal = {Leukemia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40456838},
issn = {1476-5551},
abstract = {In the post-pandemic years, SARS-CoV-2 morbidity and mortality declined due to less pathogenic variants, active and passive immunization, and antiviral therapies. However, patients with hematological malignancies and/or undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remain at increased risk for poor outcomes. Therefore, adherence to contact and droplet precautions is essential to avoid transmission, especially during epidemic waves. Detection of viral RNA by nucleic acid testing of naso-oro-pharyngeal samples is the gold standard for diagnosis due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Direct antigen testing allows for rapid management decisions if positive, but has a low sensitivity, especially in asymptomatic patients. Active immunisation is the key to prevention and may require annual matching to circulating variants. Passive immunization with SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing anti-antibodies lost its indication due to the emergence of immune escape variants. Convalescent plasma has been proposed for passive immunization but is not readily available in most centres. For symptomatic patients, early antiviral treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir or remdesivir may reduce the risk of progression to severe-critical COVID-19. Prolonged administration, repeated courses, and a combination of antivirals are considered for patients with clinical or virological failure to antiviral monotherapy. In severe-critical COVID-19, dexamethasone or drugs downregulating the inflammatory cytokine responses (anti-Il-6/anti-IL-2 agents, Janus kinase inhibitor) are recommended, together with the best supportive and intensive care, but care should be exercised in immunosuppressed patients. Deferral of intensive chemotherapy, HCT conditioning, T-cell-based immunotherapy, or T-cell engaging antibodies are considered for patients with COVID-19, whereas deferral decisions are taken on a case-by-case basis for asymptomatic patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

@article {pmid40454870,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, Z and Xu, YE and Li, JZ and Wang, YT and Song, H and Ao, DS},
title = {Three-dimensional cell culture models in respiratory virus research: technological advances and current applications.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5tb00290g},
pmid = {40454870},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {From the Spanish flu to the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory viruses have inflicted significant damage on the global population. As research into these viruses progresses, so too does the methodology employed. Although traditional in vitro two-dimensional (2D) cell culture techniques and animal models have played crucial roles in our understanding of respiratory viruses and have made significant contributions to research on viral infection mechanisms, as well as the development of drugs and vaccines, they have limitations. Specifically, 2D cell culture models do not accurately simulate the in vivo micro-environment, and animal models may not share the same susceptibility and immune response as humans. Consequently, viral isolation and culture techniques are transitioning towards 3D cell culture technologies. Furthermore, the potential for multi-disciplinary collaborations using 3D cell culture opens new opportunities for personalized medicine. This review will explore the advancement and application of 3D cell culture in respiratory virus research, emphasising the most recent developments and trends in the field. By evaluating the current strengths and limitations of these technologies, we aim to provide insights that will inform future scientific exploration and clinical applications.},
}

@article {pmid40454668,
year = {2025},
author = {Sebastian, S and Nirghin, U and Rampersad, N},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on persons with visual impairment.},
journal = {Clinical & experimental optometry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/08164622.2025.2509595},
pmid = {40454668},
issn = {1444-0938},
abstract = {Vision impairment is a global public health concern affecting 1.1 billion people worldwide. The coronavirus disease or COVID-19 outbreak caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus in 2019 affected many aspects of everyday life and prompted various preventative health measures. Persons with visual impairment face multiple challenges daily, and with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, these challenges were likely worsened. With various studies conducted globally to explore the experiences of persons with visual impairment, this scoping review aims to provide an overview of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on persons with visual impairment within a global context. The five-step framework by Arksey and O'Malley was applied, involving a literature search across nine electronic databases, with specific search terms formulated from the research question. Data were screened for eligibility by the three reviewers using pre-decided study criteria. Of the 263 articles identified from December 2019 to October 2022, 49 were included in this review. More than 80% of the articles were published in the early years of the pandemic (2020 and 2021), and 77.5% of the studies had persons with visual impairment as participants. The themes identified included psychosocial, access to COVID-19 information and technology, healthcare, everyday activities, education, economic situation, adherence to regulations, and support. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the challenges faced by persons with visual impairment, especially those affecting their independence and daily routines. Governments and stakeholders should make more efforts to address the challenges experienced by persons with visual impairment, as this will directly impact their quality of life.},
}

@article {pmid40453691,
year = {2025},
author = {Pourrazavi, S and Fathi, B and Fathifar, Z and Nadrian, H and Allahverdipour, H},
title = {Leveraging Ottawa Charter strategies to enhance COVID-19 vaccination: A systematic review of global health promotion approaches.},
journal = {Health promotion perspectives},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {9-22},
pmid = {40453691},
issn = {2228-6497},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite global vaccination efforts, many countries struggled to achieve sufficient COVID-19 vaccination coverage. The use of Ottawa Charter health promotion strategies in vaccination programs not only enhances coverage but also fosters sustainable public health outcomes. This systematic review aims to identify actionable strategies to improve vaccination efforts.

METHODS: This systematic review involved a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, targeting studies published between January 2020 and August 2024. The search focused on government-led health promotion strategies for enhancing COVID-19 vaccination rates. Strategies were categorized five main areas of the Ottawa Charter for health promotion.

RESULTS: A total of 22 health promotion strategies were identified globally, categorized into five key areas based on the Ottawa Charter for health promotion. Notable strategies included engaging community, addressing misinformation, expanding vaccination sites, and providing culturally tailored communication.

CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the significance of utilizing the Ottawa Charter framework to design inclusive and adaptable public health strategies that ensure equitable vaccination coverage globally.},
}

@article {pmid40453679,
year = {2025},
author = {Elechi, KW and Oyepeju Nkem, O and Timothy Chibueze, N and Elechi, US and Franklin Chimaobi, K},
title = {Long-term Neurological Consequences of COVID-19 in Patients With Pre-existing Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Neuroscience insights},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {26331055251342755},
pmid = {40453679},
issn = {2633-1055},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, has profound systemic effects, including significant impacts on the central nervous system (CNS). Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between SARS-CoV-2-induced neuroinflammation and the exacerbation or initiation of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). This review explores the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to neurodegenerative processes. We first discuss the pathways of viral entry into the CNS, including transneuronal and hematogenous routes, leading to blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. Neuroinflammation, mediated by the activation of microglia and astrocytes and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, is highlighted as a critical factor exacerbating neuronal damage. Oxidative stress and vascular damage are further examined as complementary mechanisms promoting neurodegeneration. In addition, we review how SARS-CoV-2 infection influences proteinopathies by accelerating the aggregation of pathological proteins like alpha-synuclein, tau, and TDP-43, contributing to disease progression in PD, AD, and related disorders. Clinical studies reporting cognitive and motor dysfunctions in post-COVID-19 patients with pre-existing neurodegenerative diseases are also summarized. Finally, this review identifies knowledge gaps and emphasizes the need for further research to clarify the long-term neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate the risk of neurodegeneration in vulnerable populations.},
}

@article {pmid40048334,
year = {2025},
author = {Bucur, AM and Moldovan, AC and Parvatikar, K and Zampieri, M and KhudaBukhsh, AR and Dinu, LP},
title = {On the State of NLP Approaches to Modeling Depression in Social Media: A Post-COVID-19 Outlook.},
journal = {IEEE journal of biomedical and health informatics},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {4439-4451},
doi = {10.1109/JBHI.2025.3540507},
pmid = {40048334},
issn = {2168-2208},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Media ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Natural Language Processing ; *Depression/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Computational approaches to predicting mental health conditions in social media have been substantially explored in the past years. Multiple reviews have been published on this topic, providing the community with comprehensive accounts of the research in this area. Among all mental health conditions, depression is the most widely studied due to its worldwide prevalence. The COVID-19 global pandemic, starting in early 2020, has had a great impact on mental health worldwide. Harsh measures employed by governments to slow the spread of the virus (e.g., lockdowns) and the subsequent economic downturn experienced in many countries have significantly impacted people's lives and mental health. Studies have shown a substantial increase of above 50% in the rate of depression in the population. In this context, we present a review on natural language processing (NLP) approaches to modeling depression in social media, providing the reader with a post-COVID-19 outlook. This review contributes to the understanding of the impacts of the pandemic on modeling depression in social media. We outline how state-of-the-art approaches and new datasets have been used in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, we also discuss ethical issues in collecting and processing mental health data, considering fairness, accountability, and ethics.},
}

Humans
*Social Media
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Natural Language Processing
*Depression/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40453652,
year = {2025},
author = {Pacheco, T and Coulombe, S and Kocovski, NL and Carbone, J},
title = {Workers' well-being during viral pandemics and epidemics: A scoping review.},
journal = {Comprehensive psychoneuroendocrinology},
volume = {22},
number = {},
pages = {100286},
pmid = {40453652},
issn = {2666-4976},
abstract = {Studies have documented workers' well-being during individual pandemics and epidemics. However, there lies a need to summarize worker well-being across crises. Moreover, there is a scarcity of reviews exploring precarious workers' well-being during these crises. Adopting a multidisciplinary perspective via positive psychology's third wave, this scoping review examines positive and negative well-being across diverse occupational groups and situations (e.g., precarious employment) and across crises. Inspired by Ecological Systems Theory, factors at different ecological levels (self, social, workplace, pandemic) relevant to workers' well-being are reviewed. The following questions are addressed: 1) How are virus-related public health crises (i.e., epidemics, pandemics) related to workers' well-being? 2) What resilience and risk factors are associated with workers' well-being in these crises? And 2a) How is the well-being of precarious workers impacted during virus-related public health crises? Of the 2,395 potentially relevant articles published before October 23rd, 2020, 187 were retained. Overall, more research has been conducted on negative than positive well-being. Workers experienced: 1) positive well-being frequently or at moderately high levels overall during pandemics and epidemics, 2) mild to moderate negative well-being during SARS and COVID-19's beginning and high negative well-being during other crises, and 3) high work-related well-being during such crises. Factors at self- (age, gender), social- (social support), workplace- (occupation, frontline status), and pandemic-related (risk/exposure, knowing someone infected/killed by the virus, PPE access) levels were associated with workers' well-being. Although explored infrequently, precarious employment was typically associated with greater negative well-being. Practice- and policy-related recommendations are discussed.},
}

@article {pmid40453305,
year = {2025},
author = {Okazaki, Y and Tsujimoto, Y and Yamada, K and Saka, N and Ariie, T and Taito, S and Banno, M and Kataoka, Y and Watanabe, N},
title = {The Impact of Government Lockdowns on the Mental Health of the General Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e83249},
pmid = {40453305},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Since December 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has spread globally, prompting governments in many countries to implement lockdowns to control the transmission of the virus. Outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, and the associated government lockdowns may have significant negative impacts on mental health. A comprehensive review of the available evidence on this topic can provide useful information for policymakers. This review aimed to assess the effects of government lockdowns on the mental health of the general population during emerging infectious disease outbreaks. On April 11, 2022, we conducted a systematic search of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO Ovid, and two clinical trial registries, supplemented by reference checking and citation searching. We included non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSIs) involving adults and adolescents, regardless of comorbidities, that examined the effects of government-imposed lockdowns compared to no lockdown during outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases, including SARS, MERS, COVID-19, H1N1, equine influenza, avian influenza, and Ebola virus disease. Critical outcomes assessed were depressive symptom severity and suicide, while important outcomes included anxiety symptom severity, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity, insomnia symptom severity, and substance use. We used the ROBINS-I tool to assess the risk of bias and conducted a meta-analysis using a random-effects model. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. We included 42 NRSIs, all conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the 27 studies reporting depressive symptoms, we pooled effect sizes from eight studies. The findings suggest that government lockdowns may have little to no effect on depressive symptom severity within the 12-month follow-up; however, the evidence was very uncertain (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.00, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.09; I[2] = 70%; 11,278 participants). Two studies reported on suicide outcomes, but both had an overall critical risk of bias due to confounding; therefore, we did not synthesize results and judged the evidence as very low certainty. For anxiety symptom severity, we pooled data from five of 20 studies and found that government lockdowns may have little to no effect within the 12-month follow-up (SMD 0.08, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.26; I[2] = 91%; 11,006 participants). Regarding PTSD symptom severity, pooled data from one of two studies suggested that government lockdowns may increase the symptom severity within the 12-month follow-up (MD 0.18, 95% CI 0.08-0.28; 1,754 participants). We pooled data from two of eight studies on insomnia symptom severity and found that government lockdowns may increase the symptom severity within the 12-month follow-up (MD 1.28, 95% CI 0.62-1.94; I[2] = 91%; 5,142 participants). In terms of alcohol use, data pooled from five of nine studies on alcohol use showed that government lockdowns may have little to no effect on alcohol consumption within the 12-month follow-up (SMD 0.03, 95% CI -0.05 to 0.11; I[2] = 66%; 8,261 participants). Overall, the evidence regarding all important outcomes was of very low certainty. At present, the impact of government lockdowns during emerging infectious disease outbreaks on mental health in the general population remains very uncertain. Future research should prioritize well-designed studies to better assess the mental health effects of lockdown measures during novel outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid40453253,
year = {2025},
author = {Boorle, NVLD and Kurra, NC and Gandrakota, N and Modi, K and Sudireddy, K and Irfan, SA and Jain, A and Parikh, PA and Jillella, D},
title = {Central Nervous System Manifestations of Long COVID: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e83247},
pmid = {40453253},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been one of the most widespread and devastating global pandemics, impacting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. After the cessation of active infection, the disease continues to have a disabling impact due to the persistence of fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and depression - among the most common symptoms. This study explores the progression of neurological symptoms over 12 months and beyond following an initial diagnosis of COVID-19. Through an electronic search of eligible studies from PubMed, the Cochrane Trial Register, and Google Scholar, 10 studies were included for qualitative analysis. The systematic review highlights the similarities and differences in findings across the included studies. Olfactory dysfunction was prevalent in 0.9%-51% of individuals, and taste impairment was observed in 1.1%-21.3%. At 12 months, anxiety was more prevalent (3.5%-29%) than depression (3.5%-26%). Fatigue was the predominant neurocognitive complaint in 56% of individuals with severe COVID-19. Nearly half of individuals reported sleep difficulties. Memory impairment, followed by headaches and dizziness, also constitutes neurocognitive symptoms reported at 12 months. Our study found that there is a significant neurological burden one year following the diagnosis of COVID-19. Further studies exploring the pathological mechanisms of long-term COVID-19 are necessary to better delineate the mechanisms behind several long-term neurological manifestations of COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40452530,
year = {2025},
author = {Moghdam, Y and Arghavan, B and Kermani, F and Jeddi, SA and Khojasteh, S and Shokohi, T and Aslani, N and Ebrahimi, A and Javidnia, J},
title = {A fatal post-COVID-19 sino-orbital mucormycosis in an adult patient with diabetes mellitus: a case report and review of the literature.},
journal = {Journal of infection in developing countries},
volume = {19},
number = {5},
pages = {661-668},
doi = {10.3855/jidc.16526},
pmid = {40452530},
issn = {1972-2680},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mucormycosis/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/microbiology ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *COVID-19/complications ; Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; Fatal Outcome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Orbital Diseases/microbiology ; Amphotericin B/therapeutic use ; *Diabetes Complications ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 is associated with a broad spectrum of bacterial and fungal superinfections.

CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of mucormycosis developing during post-COVID-19 therapeutic management. A 63-year-old diabetic female presented with COVID-19 and received combination therapy per institutional protocol, including dexamethasone, remdesivir, and ivermectin. Seven days post-discharge, the patient was readmitted with dyspnea and lethargy. On day 3 of readmission, the patient reported unilateral facial and orbital pain. Subsequent histopathological and mycological examination confirmed mucormycosis. Despite surgical debridement and treatment with amphotericin B (3 mg/kg/day), the patient succumbed to the infection.

RESULTS: Based on ITS rDNA sequencing, the fungus was identified as Rhizopus arrhizus. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed according to the CLSI M38-A2 guideline, yielding minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.016 µg/mL for amphotericin B, 0.031 µg/mL for posaconazole, 0.25 µg/mL for isavuconazole, 1 µg/mL for itraconazole, and 8 µg/mL for voriconazole.

CONCLUSIONS: Early diagnosis, prompt antifungal therapy, and appropriate surgical intervention are critical for improving mucormycosis outcomes, especially in COVID-19 patients.},
}

Humans
*Mucormycosis/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/microbiology
Female
Middle Aged
*COVID-19/complications
Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use
Fatal Outcome
SARS-CoV-2
*Orbital Diseases/microbiology
Amphotericin B/therapeutic use
*Diabetes Complications
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40451590,
year = {2025},
author = {Jarallah, SJ and Almughem, FA and Alhumaid, NK and Fayez, NA and Alradwan, I and Alsulami, KA and Tawfik, EA and Alshehri, AA},
title = {Artificial intelligence revolution in drug discovery: A paradigm shift in pharmaceutical innovation.},
journal = {International journal of pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {125789},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.125789},
pmid = {40451590},
issn = {1873-3476},
abstract = {Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into drug discovery has revolutionized pharmaceutical innovation, addressing the challenges of traditional methods that are costly, time-consuming, and suffer from high failure rates. By utilizing machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and natural language processing (NLP), AI enhances various stages of drug development, including target identification, lead optimization, de novo drug design, and drug repurposing. AI tools, such as AlphaFold for protein structure prediction and AtomNet for structure-based drug design, have significantly accelerated the discovery process, improved efficiency and reduced costs. Success stories like Insilico Medicine's AI-designed molecule for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and BenevolentAI's identification of baricitinib for COVID-19 highlight AI's transformative potential. Additionally, AI enables the exploration of vast chemical spaces, optimization of clinical trials, and the identification of novel therapeutic targets, paving the way for precision medicine. However, challenges such as limited data accessibility, integration of diverse datasets, interpretability of AI models, and ethical concerns remain critical hurdles. Overcoming these limitations through enhanced algorithms, standardized databases, and interdisciplinary collaboration is essential. Overall, AI continues to reshape drug discovery, reducing timelines, increasing success rates, and driving the development of innovative and accessible therapies for unmet medical needs.},
}

@article {pmid40450230,
year = {2025},
author = {Leung, WKC and Yau, CYC and Lam, SC},
title = {Facilitators, barriers, and recommendations for mobile health applications among Chinese older populations: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC geriatrics},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {396},
pmid = {40450230},
issn = {1471-2318},
support = {CRG2023/01//Tung Wah College/ ; CRG2023/01//Tung Wah College/ ; },
mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; China ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Mobile Applications ; *Telemedicine ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mobile health (mHealth) applications have become indispensable in people's daily lives and are now incorporated into a multitude of healthcare services. However, due to inappropriate designs and ineffective promotional strategies, the rates of uptake and continued use of mHealth applications in older adults are usually low. Given that recent evidence has reported distinct mHealth adoption patterns between Chinese and non-Chinese populations, the aim of this scoping review was to map relevant evidence on the end-user perceptions and age-appropriate recommendations for interface design, persuasive features, and promotional strategies among Chinese older adults.

METHODS: All primary studies conducted in Chinese older people aged 60 + years, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research, examining end-user perceptions (e.g., motivators, barriers, and design) of mHealth applications were considered eligible for inclusion. Four electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Medline) were searched from their inceptions through 31 May 2024. A narrative approach was adopted for data analyses relevant to the study aim.

RESULTS: A total of 23 studies (n = 8,203) were included. End-user perceptions (facilitators and barriers) of older people were narratively synthesized according to the socio-ecological model (individual/product, interpersonal, community, and societal). In Chinese deaf and hard-of-hearing older adults, the lack of proficiency in mastering operations of smartphone, Internet, and mHealth applications greatly jeopardized their communication with family or friends, accessibility to online medical consultations, and access to public places amidst COVID-19 pandemic. Recommended interface designs were categorized into various aspects of functional impairments (vision, manual dexterity, and cognition) of elderly users. Seven promotional strategies were also highlighted, whereas more than half of the studies recommended education measures (e.g., personalized family/peer- or health professional-led training program) and technical support (e.g., face-to-face instructions, detailed manual instructions, and timely consultation services). Other recommendations included increased publicity, co-creation, and supportive government policies.

CONCLUSION: This review synthesizes the existing relevant evidence and hence provides age-friendly recommendations for interface designs, persuasive features, and promotional strategies in Chinese older populations. Overall, this study empirically offers actionable guidelines for mHealth developers to meet the multifaceted needs of older people.},
}

Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Humans
Middle Aged
China
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Mobile Applications
*Telemedicine
East Asian People

@article {pmid40450224,
year = {2025},
author = {Skront, T and Sagan, J and Hyza, M},
title = {Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a patient with COVID-19 and the possible role of SARS-CoV-2 in its manifestation: case report and overview of published cases.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {557},
pmid = {40450224},
issn = {1471-244X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Adult ; *COVID-19/complications ; Male ; *Schizophrenia/drug therapy/complications ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Olanzapine/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The manifestation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is more complex than that of pulmonary infection, and neuropsychiatric symptoms play a role in this complexity. In this paper, we present the case of a 29-year-old schizophrenic patient who suffered from neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) that developed during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, with an emphasis on the possible connection between these two conditions. Additionally, we provide an overview of published NMS cases in patients with COVID-19 or after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 29-year-old patient treated for schizophrenia, treated with paliperidone palmitate (150 mg every four weeks) and cariprazine (6 mg daily), was admitted to the hospital for agitation and aggressivity; shortly after arrival at the hospital, laryngospasm and hypoxia occurred. The patient tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, and later, he developed pneumonia. During hospitalization, olanzapine (20 mg daily) was added to his regimen. However, due to continuing restlessness, haloperidol was administered (20 mg over the course of one day). A few days later, neuroleptic malignant syndrome occurred. He was treated with bromocriptine (15 mg daily) and clonazepam (2 mg daily) and recovered.

CONCLUSIONS: As SARS-CoV-2 is known to interact with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and DOPA-decarboxylase is known to be coexpressed with this receptor, we hypothesized that COVID-19 infection might play a substantial role in the development of NMS.},
}

Humans
*Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis
Adult
*COVID-19/complications
Male
*Schizophrenia/drug therapy/complications
Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
Olanzapine/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40449975,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, AK and Goel, K and Dhanawat, M},
title = {Plasmid DNA and mRNA delivery: Approaches and challenges.},
journal = {Advances in immunology},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {63-87},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ai.2024.12.001},
pmid = {40449975},
issn = {1557-8445},
mesh = {Humans ; *Plasmids/genetics/administration & dosage ; *RNA, Messenger/genetics/administration & dosage/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccines, DNA/immunology/genetics/administration & dosage ; Animals ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics ; *Gene Transfer Techniques ; Genetic Therapy/methods ; *DNA/genetics/administration & dosage ; Nanoparticles ; },
abstract = {for delivery of plasmid DNA and mRNA transform biology and medicine, offering powerful tools for gene therapy, vaccine development, cancer immunotherapy, and regenerative medicine. Plasmid DNA provides a relatively stable and sustained expression of the genes which also provides the basic groundwork for long-lasting therapeutic. At the same time, mRNA has also demonstrated more appropriateness for dynamic and time-sensitive applications due to its short-lived and accurate translation capabilities, such as during the development of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. Despite their unique advantages, however, the efficient delivery of these biomolecules poses challenges including immune system activation, enzymatic degradation, and limited cellular uptake. The structural and functional features of plasmid DNA and mRNA highlighted the positive functions that underpin their complementary roles in next-generation biomedical applications. In addition, it highlights the novel delivery routes across lipid nanoparticles, polymeric systems, biomimetic carriers, and hybrid applied sciences which can resolve long-standing challenges to efficient distribution. Emerging technologies such as CRISPR gene editing, self-amplifying RNA, and multiplexed nanoparticles are also increasing the utility of these systems. Significant advances in the delivery of plasmid DNA and mRNA molecules have revolutionized vaccine development, opened new avenues in personalized medicine, and have also inspired a future with engineerable tissues. As these innovations develop, they are predicted to go beyond current limitations and bring around a fresh era of accurate medication taking on one of the global healthcare's most complex challenges. Our revolutionary delivery methods provide stability and simplicity, transforming medical advances.},
}

Humans
*Plasmids/genetics/administration & dosage
*RNA, Messenger/genetics/administration & dosage/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccines, DNA/immunology/genetics/administration & dosage
Animals
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics
*Gene Transfer Techniques
Genetic Therapy/methods
*DNA/genetics/administration & dosage
Nanoparticles

@article {pmid40449972,
year = {2025},
author = {Prabhakar, PK and Upadhyay, TK and Sahu, SK},
title = {mRNA-based cancer vaccines: A novel approach to melanoma treatment.},
journal = {Advances in immunology},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {117-162},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ai.2024.10.010},
pmid = {40449972},
issn = {1557-8445},
mesh = {Humans ; *Melanoma/therapy/immunology ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; *Skin Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; Animals ; Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics ; COVID-19/immunology ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; },
abstract = {Malignant melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer and a leading cause of death from skin tumors. With the rising incidence of melanoma diagnoses, there is an urgent need to develop effective treatments. Among the most modern approaches are cancer vaccines, which aim to enhance cell-mediated immunity. Recently, mRNA-based cancer vaccines have gained significant attention due to their rapid production, low manufacturing costs, and ability to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses. These vaccines hold great potential in melanoma treatment, yet their application faces several challenges, including mRNA stabilization, delivery methods, and tumor heterogeneity. The recent success of mRNA vaccines in combating COVID-19 has renewed interest in their potential for cancer immunotherapy. In particular, mRNA cancer vaccines offer high specificity and better efficacy compared to traditional treatments. They can target tumor-specific neoantigens, prompting a robust immune response. This chapter reviews the mechanism of action of mRNA vaccines, advancements in adjuvant identification, and innovations in delivery systems such as lipid nanoparticles. It also discusses ongoing clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of mRNA-based vaccines in melanoma, highlighting promising early-phase results. Despite their potential, the development of mRNA cancer vaccines faces significant obstacles. Tumor heterogeneity, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments, and practical issues like vaccine administration and clinical evaluation methods are major barriers to success. By addressing these challenges and advancing innovations, mRNA cancer vaccines hold promise for transforming melanoma treatment. A careful balance between the opportunities and challenges will be key to unlocking the full potential of mRNA vaccines in cancer immunotherapy.},
}

Humans
*Melanoma/therapy/immunology
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics
*Immunotherapy/methods
*Skin Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
Animals
Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics
COVID-19/immunology
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology

@article {pmid40368635,
year = {2025},
author = {Flores, CV and Chan, SY},
title = {Therapeutic targets for pulmonary arterial hypertension: insights into the emerging landscape.},
journal = {Expert opinion on therapeutic targets},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {327-343},
pmid = {40368635},
issn = {1744-7631},
support = {R01 HL124021/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL151228/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/drug therapy/physiopathology ; Animals ; *Molecular Targeted Therapy ; Vascular Remodeling/drug effects ; Drug Development ; Disease Progression ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Ventricular Dysfunction, Right/physiopathology/etiology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive, life-threatening disease driven by vascular remodeling, right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, and metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation. Current therapies primarily target vasodilation to relieve symptoms but do not reverse disease progression. The recent approval of sotatercept, which modulates BMP/TGF-β signaling, marks a shift toward anti-remodeling therapies. Building on this, recent preclinical advances have identified promising therapeutic targets and potentially disease-modifying treatments.

AREAS COVERED: This review synthesizes the evolving preclinical landscape of emerging PAH therapeutic targets and drugs, highlighting innovative approaches aimed at addressing the underlying mechanisms of disease progression. Additionally, we discuss novel therapeutic strategies under development.

EXPERT OPINION: Recent advances in PAH research have identified novel therapeutic targets beyond vasodilators, including modulation of BMP/TGF-β signaling, metabolic programs, epigenetics, cancer-related signaling, the extracellular matrix, and immune pathways, among others. Sotatercept represents a significant advance in therapies that go beyond vasodilation, and long-term safety, efficacy, and durability are being assessed. Future treatment strategies will focus on precision approaches, noninvasive technologies, and regenerative biology to improve outcomes and reverse vascular remodeling.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/drug therapy/physiopathology
Animals
*Molecular Targeted Therapy
Vascular Remodeling/drug effects
Drug Development
Disease Progression
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Ventricular Dysfunction, Right/physiopathology/etiology/drug therapy

@article {pmid40050182,
year = {2025},
author = {Worapongpaiboon, R and Siranart, N and Pajareya, P and Phutinart, S},
title = {Inflammatory markers in predicting survival in pancreatic cancer: A Systematic review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Pancreatology : official journal of the International Association of Pancreatology (IAP) ... [et al.]},
volume = {25},
number = {3},
pages = {385-395},
doi = {10.1016/j.pan.2025.02.014},
pmid = {40050182},
issn = {1424-3911},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pancreatic Neoplasms/mortality/blood/diagnosis/pathology ; Prognosis ; Neutrophils ; *Inflammation/blood ; Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/mortality ; Lymphocytes ; Biomarkers, Tumor/blood ; Lymphocyte Count ; Platelet Count ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Determining an accurate prognosis for pancreatic cancer (PC) can pose significant challenges. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) has been used as prognostic factors to predict outcomes in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. This study aims to reveal the prognostic value of NLR and PLR on survival outcomes and risk of metastasis in PC.

METHODS: NLR and PLR was investigated for its potential to predict survival outcomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). For pancreatic cystic neoplasm (PCN), we investigated the potential for inflammatory markers to predict malignancy. Subgroup analysis was performed for tumor resectability, marker cut-off value (COV), and conducted location. Hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) were pooled and analyzed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: A total of 105 studies included with a total of 20,138 patients. In PDAC, elevated NLR levels were significantly associated with poorer outcomes of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in multivariable analysis (HR 1.79, 1.74, and 1.91, respectively). Similarly, elevated PLR levels in PDAC were also associated with poorer OS and RFS in multivariable analysis (HR 1.33 and 1.94), respectively. For PNET, NLR was significantly associated with OS and RFS in multivariable analysis (HR 2.57 and 3.05, respectively). Furthermore, NLR and PLR show significant association with malignancy in PCN (OR 3.07 and HR 2.42, respectively).

CONCLUSION: NLR and PLR effectively predicted PC outcomes and hold potential for evaluating therapeutic responses and identifying candidates for additional treatment strategies in advanced disease.},
}

Humans
*Pancreatic Neoplasms/mortality/blood/diagnosis/pathology
Prognosis
Neutrophils
*Inflammation/blood
Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/mortality
Lymphocytes
Biomarkers, Tumor/blood
Lymphocyte Count
Platelet Count

@article {pmid40036046,
year = {2025},
author = {Gormley, MA and Moschella, P and Pham, T and Callicott, V and Jardim, K and Madden, A and Wampler, WR and Schwerin, D and Shukla, S and Miramontes, DA and Bailes, P and Litwin, AH and Floyd, SB and Beltran, GW},
title = {Implementation Barriers of Prehospital Buprenorphine Administration Programs in the United States: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Prehospital emergency care},
volume = {29},
number = {4},
pages = {441-449},
doi = {10.1080/10903127.2025.2470965},
pmid = {40036046},
issn = {1545-0066},
mesh = {Humans ; *Buprenorphine/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; United States ; *Emergency Medical Services/organization & administration/methods ; *Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy ; *Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage ; *Analgesics, Opioid/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Prehospital buprenorphine administration programs (PBAPs) have spread throughout the United States (U.S.) with limited information on their locations or barriers to implementation, posing challenges to emergency medical services (EMS) systems adopting this clinical care model. This scoping review identifies where current PBAPs operate and summarizes commonly reported barriers to PBAP implementation.

METHODS: State Offices of EMS were contacted by phone and email and asked if PBAPs operated within the state. After three failed attempts, representative physicians from remaining states were queried through the National Association of EMS Physicians' state membership. Four databases identified PBAPs from manuscripts, popular media, and conference proceedings from each database's inception to 8/25/2024. Programs were included if EMS clinicians administered buprenorphine. Data extraction from academic manuscripts, popular media, and conference proceedings included PBAP location, personnel, protocols, and implementation barriers. Results were reported utilizing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.

RESULTS: Nineteen states and Washington D.C. reported at least one PBAP, 28 reported none, 3 were pending implementation. Of 977 identified titles, 17 met inclusion criteria. Seven media articles, 4 conference presentations, 3 cohort studies, 2 case series, and 1 scoping review yielded data on 13 unique PBAPs within 8 states. Most PBAPs delivered buprenorphine via 9-1-1 paramedics (61.5%) during an EMS response, or by community paramedics (46.1%) within 24-48 h of an EMS response to a patient who experienced an overdose. Five (33.3%) PBAPs reported at least one patient-related barrier to PBAP implementation, including reasons buprenorphine was not administered, lack of treatment access, and patient loss of follow-up. Four programs reported operational-level barriers, including in-person restrictions due to COVID-19, siloing of outpatient services, lack of outpatient service options, inconsistent education of PBAP staff, inconsistent application of PBAP protocols by EMS clinicians, high turnover, and difficulty procuring buprenorphine.

CONCLUSIONS: Whereas 19 states in the U.S. and Washington D.C. reported having at least one PBAP, few are reported in literature, and very few report barriers to PBAP implementation. Developing consensus on metrics assessing PBAP implementation is necessary to inform EMS agencies implementing these novel programs throughout the U.S.},
}

Humans
*Buprenorphine/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
United States
*Emergency Medical Services/organization & administration/methods
*Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy
*Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage
*Analgesics, Opioid/administration & dosage

@article {pmid39593235,
year = {2025},
author = {Fauci, AS and Folkers, GK},
title = {HIV/AIDS and COVID-19: Shared Lessons From 2 Pandemics.},
journal = {Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America},
volume = {80},
number = {5},
pages = {1074-1079},
doi = {10.1093/cid/ciae585},
pmid = {39593235},
issn = {1537-6591},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *HIV Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control/transmission ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/epidemiology ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {The global experiences with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemics hold important lessons for preparing for, and responding to, future outbreaks of emerging or reemerging infectious diseases. Scores of infectious diseases have emerged or reemerged over the past 4 decades, and future outbreaks are inevitable. The next emerging pathogen likely will again come from unanticipated sources and pose puzzles in terms of microbiology, transmission, natural history, pathogenesis, and epidemiology, and will present challenges to developing countermeasures such as diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Although dozens of lessons could be addressed, 8 selected lessons common to HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 are addressed here. Consideration of the commonality of lessons learned from HIV/AIDS and COVID-19, the 2 most devastating pandemics over the past half century, will help us-and those who follow us-to minimize the impact of future outbreaks and prevent them from becoming global pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*HIV Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control/transmission
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/epidemiology
Global Health

@article {pmid39234905,
year = {2025},
author = {Maideen, NMP and Al Rashid, S},
title = {Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir)-Induced Tacrolimus Toxicity in Organ Transplant Recipients - A Review on Drug Interactions Involving CYP3A Enzymes.},
journal = {Current drug safety},
volume = {20},
number = {3},
pages = {291-302},
pmid = {39234905},
issn = {2212-3911},
mesh = {*Tacrolimus/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics ; Humans ; *Ritonavir/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics/administration & dosage ; *Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A/metabolism ; Drug Interactions ; *Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors/adverse effects ; COVID-19 ; Transplant Recipients ; *Organ Transplantation ; Drug Combinations ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) is the first oral therapy approved by the US FDA to treat patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: Our current review focuses on clinical data related to tacrolimus toxicity induced by Paxlovid currently available.

METHODS: A number of online databases, including LitCovid, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, EBSCO host, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and the reference lists were searched to identify articles related to Paxlovid-induced tacrolimus toxicity, using keywords, like drug interactions, Paxlovid, ritonavir, nirmatrelvir, tacrolimus, pharmacokinetic interactions, and CYP3A.

RESULTS: Tacrolimus is a substrate of CYP3A enzymes and ritonavir of Paxlovid has been identified as a potent inhibitor of CYP3A enzymes. Hence, Paxlovid can inhibit the CYP3A-mediated metabolism of tacrolimus, resulting in elevated plasma concentrations of tacrolimus and toxicity.

CONCLUSION: A number of case reports and case series have been published to highlight the association of Paxlovid and tacrolimus toxicity in transplant recipients with COVID-19 infection. Various recommendations have been proposed to prevent and mitigate the adverse events related to the DDI of Paxlovid and tacrolimus. Transplant physicians should be aware of this DDI and collaborate with clinical pharmacists on this issue.},
}

*Tacrolimus/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics
Humans
*Ritonavir/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics/administration & dosage
*Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A/metabolism
Drug Interactions
*Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors/adverse effects
COVID-19
Transplant Recipients
*Organ Transplantation
Drug Combinations
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40449348,
year = {2025},
author = {Viviani, L and Vecchio, R and Pariani, E and Sandri, L and Binda, S and Ammoni, E and Cereda, D and Carducci, A and Pellegrinelli, L and Odone, A},
title = {Wastewater-based epidemiology of influenza viruses: a systematic review.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {986},
number = {},
pages = {179706},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179706},
pmid = {40449348},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a valuable public health tool for monitoring the circulation of many pathogens, including influenza viruses (IVs). The general aim of this study is to systematically retrieve and summarize evidence on the use of WBE for supporting influenza surveillance. Specific objectives are: (i) to map influenza monitoring activities using WBE; (ii) to assess the performance of viral recovery methods; (iii) to explore association with clinical data; (iv) to evaluate the feasibility of typing/subtyping IVs directly from wastewater.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines, focusing on original data from peer-reviewed studies identified through PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science.

RESULTS: Of 882 identified citations, 42 studies were included in the review. IVs detection was reported in all but one study, although typically at lower concentration than SARS-CoV-2. Thirteen studies (38.09 %) performed comparative analysis of different protocols, with mostly inconclusive results. Detection of IVs in the solid fraction of wastewater samples generally outperformed detection in the supernatant/liquid. Additionally, we describe the findings from 22 studies (52.38 %) that examined the link between environmental viral concentrations and clinical data, and 14 studies (33.33 %) that described IVs subtyping in wastewater.

CONCLUSION: WBE has the potential to monitor influenza circulation in humans and animals, offering insights into outbreak size and circulating IVs subtypes. However, several key areas remain unexplored. Further research is needed to refine experimental techniques and standardize protocols, and to understand how to successfully integrate WBE data into public health strategies for influenza control.},
}

@article {pmid40447511,
year = {2025},
author = {Thibon, C and Vecellio, L and Dubus, JC and Reychler, G},
title = {[Does nebulization present a risk of viral transmission? A narrative review].},
journal = {Revue des maladies respiratoires},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.rmr.2025.04.005},
pmid = {40447511},
issn = {1776-2588},
abstract = {Nebulization is a commonly applied therapy for patients with respiratory conditions, encompassing those infected with respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza and RSV. Since the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, concerns have arisen regarding the release into the environment of airborne particles during nebulization. While this treatment is known to expose healthcare workers to drug particles, the risk of viral dispersion remains poorly documented in the literature. The following narrative review explores this risk with the aim of fostering discussions and recommendations, the objectives being to minimize airborne contamination risk for healthcare workers during future epidemics, and in the management of seasonal viruses.},
}

@article {pmid40447142,
year = {2025},
author = {Vreeman, ECA and Pillay, J and Burgess, JK},
title = {Post-COVID pulmonary sequelae: Mechanisms and potential targets to reduce persistent fibrosis.},
journal = {Pharmacology & therapeutics},
volume = {272},
number = {},
pages = {108891},
doi = {10.1016/j.pharmthera.2025.108891},
pmid = {40447142},
issn = {1879-016X},
abstract = {After the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, the emergence of long-term sequelae post-infection poses a new healthcare challenge. Following initial infection with SARS-CoV-2, approximately 1 in 10 people experience post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), also known as long COVID. PASC can affect the entire body, with the airways and lungs being a primary target of the initial viral infection. Many post-COVID symptoms have been associated with fibrotic lung lesions and diminished respiratory function. The reversibility, persistence, or progression of post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis is still a topic of debate. We aimed to compare current findings and examined similar viral infections from the past, to increase understanding of prevalence, persistence and possible pharmacological targets of post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis. Recent studies have documented PASC symptoms persisting up to 3 years post-recovery, and lung impairments present after 15 years after infection with the similar SARS-CoV virus in 2003. These findings suggest the potential for long-term pulmonary fibrosis following SARS-CoV-2 infection, highlighting the need for new anti-fibrotic treatments capable of reversing pulmonary fibrosis. Besides the approved anti-fibrotics, pirfenidone and nintedanib, other promising treatments include histone deacetylase inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers and mesenchymal stem cells. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis are still incompletely understood, necessitating future research to clarify the development of persistent post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Given the widespread transmission of SARS-CoV-2, even a low prevalence of persistent post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis would represent a significant public health concern for which therapeutic strategies are essential to identify.},
}

@article {pmid40446698,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, F and Wen, G},
title = {Strategies for combating FIPV infection: antiviral agents and vaccines.},
journal = {Research in veterinary science},
volume = {192},
number = {},
pages = {105709},
doi = {10.1016/j.rvsc.2025.105709},
pmid = {40446698},
issn = {1532-2661},
abstract = {Feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV) is a deadly virus that causes feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in cats. FIP is a biotype of feline coronavirus (FCoV). Currently, the prevention and treatment of FIPV is challenged by the absence of adequate clinical treatment drugs and vaccines that offer strong immune protection complicated. In this review, we analyse and explain how small-molecule inhibitors function to protect against viral infections. Additionally, we highlight the challenges and future possibilities in developing FIPV vaccines, which are crucial for enhancing FIPV treatment and creating viable vaccine solution strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40446293,
year = {2025},
author = {Senek, M and Drummond, D and Pinnock, H and Hansen, K and Ankolekar, A and O'Connor, Ú and Gonsard, A and Mazulov, O and Sreter, KB and Thornton, C and Powell, P},
title = {Impact of Digital Health on Patient-Provider Relationships in Respiratory Secondary Care Based on Qualitative and Quantitative Evidence: Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e70970},
doi = {10.2196/70970},
pmid = {40446293},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Telemedicine ; *Secondary Care ; *Professional-Patient Relations ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Qualitative Research ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital health technology adoption has accelerated in respiratory care, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting various applications from self-management to telerehabilitation. While these technologies have transformed health care delivery, their impact on the patient-provider relationship in specialist respiratory care remains poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to systematically review the literature on the impact of digital health technology on the patient-provider relationship in respiratory secondary care settings and to understand the factors that enhance or diminish this relationship.

METHODS: In December 2023, we conducted a systematic review following Cochrane methodology, searching MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane databases, and PsycINFO. We included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies examining digital health interventions in respiratory secondary care. Trained volunteers from the European Respiratory Society CONNECT Clinical Research Collaboration performed screening and data extraction. We conducted a qualitative meta-synthesis of findings, followed by an abductive quantitative data analysis. A total of 3 stakeholder workshops were held to interpret findings collaboratively with patients and health care professionals.

RESULTS: From 15,779 papers screened, 97 met the inclusion criteria (55 qualitative/mixed-methods studies, 42 quantitative studies). Studies covered various respiratory conditions, including COPD (32%), asthma (26%), and COVID-19 (13%). Four main themes emerged: trust (foundational to the relationship), adoption factors (including clinical context and implementation drivers), confidence in technology (based on functionality and the evidence base), and connection (encompassing communication and a caring presence). Digital health technology can either enhance or diminish trust between patients and clinicians, with patients' perceptions of the motivations behind its implementation being crucial. While technology facilitated access and communication, remote consultations risked depersonalisation, particularly when not balanced with in-person interactions. Self-monitoring and access to information empowered patients and promoted more equitable patient-provider relationships.

CONCLUSIONS: Digital health technology can either strengthen or weaken patient-provider relationships in respiratory care, with effects impacted by adoption factors, confidence in technology, connection, and patient empowerment. Maintaining trust in the era of digital care requires transparent implementation of motivations, consideration of individual circumstances, and reliable technology that supports rather than replaces the therapeutic relationship.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024493664; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024493664.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Telemedicine
*Secondary Care
*Professional-Patient Relations
SARS-CoV-2
Qualitative Research
Digital Health

@article {pmid40444574,
year = {2025},
author = {Nakaike, T and Nguyen, DA and Makram, AM and Elsheikh, R and Hassani, M and Reda, A and Trieu, MDT and Huy, NT and Hirayama, K},
title = {The Impact of the COVID-19 on Physical Violence, Sexual Violence and Neglect Against Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Child: care, health and development},
volume = {51},
number = {4},
pages = {e70105},
doi = {10.1111/cch.70105},
pmid = {40444574},
issn = {1365-2214},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Child Abuse/statistics & numerical data ; *Child Abuse, Sexual/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Physical Abuse/statistics & numerical data ; Prevalence ; *Sex Offenses/statistics & numerical data ; Male ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 caused the interruption of child protection services and economic/psychological burdens on parents. Therefore, in this systematic review and meta-analysis (SR/MA), we aimed to identify the impact of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic on physical and sexual violence and neglect against children by investigating the change in the prevalence of these events before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: The protocol of this study was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42022377660. We included any studies eligible for meta-analysis comparing physical and sexual violence and neglect against children before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eleven electronic databases were systematically searched in March 2022. The meta-analysis was conducted using STATA, pooled odds ratios were calculated and subgroups by countries and sex of children (when possible) were analysed.

RESULTS: A total of 11 publications were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, we found no significant evidence to support that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the prevalence or proportion of the three types of violence against children, even after segregating the data to the country or sex levels.

CONCLUSION: Overall, our analysis revealed no significant change in physical and sexual violence, as well as neglect against children before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the majority of data sources being hospital records and child protection services. More self-reported studies should be performed, especially in low- and middle-income countries, for a better understanding of child abuse and neglect around the world.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Child Abuse/statistics & numerical data
*Child Abuse, Sexual/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
*Physical Abuse/statistics & numerical data
Prevalence
*Sex Offenses/statistics & numerical data
Male
Female

@article {pmid40443361,
year = {2025},
author = {Spicuzza, L and Attinà, A and Bignamini, E and Cilla, M and De Bortoli, J and Di Michele, L and Foresi, A and Malorgio, E and Marino, L and Rocca, A and Toraldo, DM and Sanna, A},
title = {Telemedicine in the Management of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Evidence from the Literature and Practical Issues. A Consensus Document from the Task Force for Telemedicine in Respiratory Diseases, Part of the Italian Society of Telemedicine.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/tmj.2024.0573},
pmid = {40443361},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a high prevalent condition associated with relevant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, determining the consume of a great amount of health care resources. Diagnosis and treatment of OSA are generally performed in OSA Units (OUs). However, although the large expansion of OUs in western countries, these still fail to cope with the increasing number of patients requiring care. Since long time, well before the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine (TM) has been explored as a tool to monitor both physiological parameters during sleep and treatment outcomes. Recently, the availability of wireless data transmission technology and new TM solutions has given an impetus to the spread of TM services. Nowadays, these find application throughout the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with OSA and the management of these patients is recognized as the most promising TM application among chronic disorders. A Task Force of experts in respiratory diseases, within the Italian Society of Telemedicine, has recently produced a document on distance management of OSA. Here, we present a revision of literature discussed by the TF and the document produced focusing on how to integrate TM services into the traditional routine care of patients with OSA.},
}

@article {pmid40443291,
year = {2025},
author = {Joseph, MM and P, S and Arya, JS and Nair, JB},
title = {Bridging pandemic and oncology challenges: Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy in the fight against COVID-19 and cancer.},
journal = {Science progress},
volume = {108},
number = {2},
pages = {368504251342977},
pmid = {40443291},
issn = {2047-7163},
mesh = {*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods ; Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/epidemiology ; *Neoplasms/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Pandemics ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {While Raman spectroscopy itself stands on the principle of inelastic scattering of light, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) amplifies those normally rather weak Raman signals by way of interactions between molecules and nanostructured metal surfaces. The technique has rapidly evolved into a very powerful analytical tool with enormous potential in combating cancer and COVID-19. SERS is a useful tool for diagnostics and treatment monitoring because of its remarkable sensitivity and ability to detect low-abundance molecules; nevertheless, standardizing techniques, guaranteeing reproducibility across several platforms, and overcoming problems related to signal enhancement and sensitivity under different experimental conditions remain challenges. SERS is also being explored about the COVID-19 pandemic, where its high sensitivity and specificity hold a promise in diagnostics, treatment monitoring, and even environmental tracing of the virus. When it comes to treatment, SERS-based theragnostic applications offer a two-pronged approach by combining therapeutic interventions with diagnostic capabilities that would make different therapies more accurate and effective. Approaches to SERS-guided drug delivery systems are discussed that would allow the drug to reach exactly where the antiviral agent is wanted, hence reducing side effects and enhancing treatment outcomes. Other approaches examined, including nanoparticle-based SERS for targeted therapy and the design of SERS tags, allow therapy and develop new ways of treatment against this virus. Finally, potential future developments of SERS technology and its wider applications in cancer and virology are discussed, with a specific view on the impact SERS might have on how infectious diseases are treated. In addition to discussing its present and potential uses, this narrative review emphasizes the critical role that SERS plays in developing and tracking cancer and COVID-19 treatments.},
}

*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/epidemiology
*Neoplasms/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Pandemics
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Drug Delivery Systems/methods
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid40443190,
year = {2025},
author = {Ravichandran, N and Dillon, E and McCombe, G and Sietins, E and Broughan, J and O' Connor, K and Gulati, G and Frawley, T and Kelly, BD and Guérandel, A and Osborne, B and Cullen, W},
title = {Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders in General Practice from 2014 to 2024: A literature review and discussion paper.},
journal = {Irish journal of psychological medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-8},
doi = {10.1017/ipm.2025.24},
pmid = {40443190},
issn = {2051-6967},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many consultations in primary care involve patients with mental health problems, and primary care is typically the place where many such patients initially seek help. While considerable research has examined the prevalence of mental health disorders in primary care, relatively few papers have examined this issue in recent years. This study aims to address this gap by reviewing contemporary literature from 2014 to 2024 on the prevalence of mental health disorders among general practice patients.

METHODS: A comprehensive search across PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar was conducted, adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for article selection and assessment, examining the prevalence of mental health disorders in general practice.

RESULTS: Studies varied in methodologies and healthcare settings, with reported prevalence rates of mental health disorders ranging from 2.4% to 56.3%. Demographic characteristics (female gender, older age) were associated with a higher prevalence of mental health disorders in the studies identified. Studies based on patient interviews reported broader prevalence (2.4-56.3%) compared to studies using electronic medical record reviews (12-38%). Prevalence also varied between countries. Notably, there has been a lack of post-COVID-19 studies, especially within Europe, examining the prevalence of mental health prevalence in primary care.

CONCLUSIONS: Mental health problems are still common among patients attending general practice; the approach to data collection (i.e., prospective interviews with patients), female gender and older age appear to be correlates of higher estimates. Further research involving a large-scale study with multiple sites is a priority.},
}

@article {pmid40145810,
year = {2025},
author = {Donohue, C and Raye, K and Pandharipande, P and Dittus, RS and Ely, EW},
title = {A Systematic Review of the Prevalence and Characteristics of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Critically Ill Patients During the Acute and Postacute Recovery Phase.},
journal = {Critical care medicine},
volume = {53},
number = {6},
pages = {e1292-e1302},
doi = {10.1097/CCM.0000000000006669},
pmid = {40145810},
issn = {1530-0293},
mesh = {Humans ; *Deglutition Disorders/epidemiology/etiology ; *Critical Illness ; Prevalence ; COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of oropharyngeal dysphagia in critically ill adults during acute and postacute care settings.

DATA SOURCES: This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO and used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Five electronic databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Embase) from the time of inception to September 2024 using search terms: dysphagia, deglutition disorders, swallowing disorders, sepsis, postintensive care syndrome, COVID-19, critical illness.

STUDY SELECTION: Independent review of articles was conducted by two raters using four inclusion criteria: 1) adults older than 18 years; 2) diagnosis of COVID-19, sepsis, critical illness, or ostintensive care syndrome and dysphagia; 3) underwent clinical swallow evaluation; and 4) in acute or postacute care setting.

DATA EXTRACTION: Two raters independently assessed levels of research evidence and risk of bias using the Oxford center for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence and the Modified Downs and Black Checklist and extracted demographics, study design, dysphagia assessment methods, outcomes, and comorbidities.

DATA SYNTHESIS: After removing duplicates, 5058 articles were identified and 4844 screened out based on title/abstract. Full-text review was completed for 214 articles, and 51 met inclusion. Prevalence of dysphagia ranged from 15% to 100%. Dysphagia persisted in up to 74% of individuals at hospital discharge and up to 22% of patients 10 to 17 months posthospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to study design limitations, high risk of bias, and heterogeneity in methods/outcomes, firm conclusions cannot be drawn. However, current data suggest a high prevalence of dysphagia in critically ill adults who persists greater than or equal to 12 months posthospital discharge. Given the high rates of silent aspiration, prospective, longitudinal research is needed to further understand the prevalence and impact of chronic dysphagia on health and quality of life in critically ill adults.},
}

Humans
*Deglutition Disorders/epidemiology/etiology
*Critical Illness
Prevalence
COVID-19/complications/epidemiology