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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Humans
Female
Male
Life Expectancy
Sex Factors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CLINICAL TRIAL: Not applicable.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SETTING: Healthcare settings including care homes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SETTING: We included studies conducted in community settings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid40352079,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Zhang, X and Deng, H and Tan, Y},
title = {The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Self-Harm: A Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Alpha psychiatry},
volume = {26},
number = {2},
pages = {39868},
doi = {10.31083/AP39868},
pmid = {40352079},
issn = {2757-8038},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused a range of mental health problems, particularly self-harm. Lockdowns are the usual methods of responding to these public health emergencies. However, the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on self-harm remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of self-harm. The findings may inform future policy development and strategies for managing pandemic-related mental health challenges.

METHODS: A meta-analysis was conducted using several database searches: APA PsycINFO, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wan Fang. Published studies with data on the incidence of self-harm during visits to medical institutions, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, were included. The pooled risk ratio (RR) value of self-harm incidence variation before and during the COVID-19 lockdown period, expressed as the comparison of clinical institution visits before and during the pandemic, was calculated.

RESULTS: Fifteen retrospective cohort studies with observational designs involving 253,600 participants were included. The pooled RR value of self-harm incidence variation was 1.386 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.205-1.595, I[2] = 58.9%, p = 0.002). The subgroup analysis showed that "emergency department type" (p = 0.004) and "mean age of the sample" were the sources of the RR values' heterogeneity (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic was a risk factor for self-harm. Therefore, special attention should be paid to individuals visiting the emergency department and the middle-aged and elderly populations.

THE PROSPERO REGISTRATION: This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023373026), https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023373026.},
}

@article {pmid40352018,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmed, AE and Alsunusi, OA and Alamer, HA and Shubayli, EA and Alqahtani, HA and Juraybi, RK and Aboud, AM and Alshihri, MS and Almaghrabi, AH and Aljohani, WF and Almudawi, AM},
title = {Effectiveness of Telemedicine Interventions for Infection Prevention and Control: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82075},
doi = {10.7759/cureus.82075},
pmid = {40352018},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Infection prevention and control is a critical aspect of healthcare delivery, especially during the ongoing challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable strategy for reducing the risk of infection transmission while maintaining the continuity of care. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness, benefits, and challenges of telemedicine interventions aimed at improving infection prevention and control across various healthcare settings. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines using databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Virtual Health Library, covering studies published up to November 2024. Studies eligible for inclusion comprised randomized trials, observational studies, and mixed-methods research assessing telemedicine applications for infection control. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using established tools for qualitative and quantitative research appraisal. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and highlighted several positive outcomes. Telemedicine interventions such as mobile applications, remote video assessments of infection control practices, and virtual infection control consultations were associated with reduced infection rates, improved compliance with preventive protocols, and timely identification of procedural gaps. In inpatient settings, telemedicine also helped conserve protective equipment and reduce staff exposure. High patient satisfaction and maintained quality of care were commonly reported. However, several challenges were identified, including technical barriers, increased workload for healthcare workers, and concerns regarding data security. These findings suggest that telemedicine is a promising and adaptable solution for enhancing infection prevention efforts, but successful implementation depends on addressing operational barriers, ensuring adequate training, and strengthening infrastructure. Further rigorous research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact and cost-effectiveness of telemedicine in infection control.},
}

@article {pmid40351947,
year = {2025},
author = {Nitz, JN and Ruprecht, KK and Henjum, LJ and Matta, AY and Shiferaw, BT and Weber, ZL and Jones, JM and May, R and Baio, CJ and Fiala, KJ and Abd-Elsayed, AA},
title = {Cardiovascular Sequelae of the COVID-19 Vaccines.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82041},
doi = {10.7759/cureus.82041},
pmid = {40351947},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Vaccines against COVID-19 present a key tool in lowering the morbidity, mortality, and transmission of the disease, but they also present a strongly controversial topic. As a result, the adverse effects of the vaccine have been under scrutiny by the public eye. A comprehensive summary of the cardiovascular (CV) adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines is vital for clinical recognition of rare adverse events, determining the public health implications, and creating a base for future research. In May 2023, a search was conducted in the PubMed and Cochrane databases to identify literature on CV complications resulting from the COVID-19 vaccine. All articles with relevant data and discussion regarding adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccines were included in the review. In total, 4419 articles were screened, and 166 articles were included in the review. The vaccine-associated CV adverse events encompassed the following conditions: myocarditis, pericarditis, acute coronary syndrome, stress cardiomyopathy, hypertension, isolated tachycardia, myocardial infarction (MI) with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), cardiac arrest, vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), MI, cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and other venous thrombotic disorders. Among these, myocarditis and thrombosis, especially VITT, emerged as the most frequently cited complications in the reviewed literature. Ranges of incidences for the following were recorded among the reviewed articles: myocarditis: 2 to 17 per million, VITT: 3-10 per million, CVST: 2.6-10 per million, MI: 3-4 per million. COVID-19 vaccines entail the potential for adverse events, although at low incidence, some of which exhibit notable severity. These adverse events exhibit demographic specificity and vaccine-specific profiles. The adverse events reviewed are uniformly acute in nature. The existing body of evidence offers limited support for the assertion that COVID-19 vaccines may elevate the baseline risk of CV events in the long term. However, the available research on effects greater than six months is scarce.},
}

@article {pmid40351791,
year = {2025},
author = {Stein, MJ and Rohrich, R},
title = {Artificial Intelligence and Postoperative Monitoring in Plastic Surgery.},
journal = {Plastic surgery (Oakville, Ont.)},
volume = {33},
number = {2},
pages = {312-317},
pmid = {40351791},
issn = {2292-5503},
abstract = {Technological innovation has fueled an evolving landscape in plastic surgery. Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has demonstrated tremendous potential in enhancing our diagnostic ability, automating data acquisition for research purposes, and supplementing our intraoperative decision-making. Over the last two decades, advancements in AI enhanced pre- and intraoperative management of plastic surgery patients. However, the demand to keep plastic surgery patients out of hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic has recently inspired important AI innovations in postoperative care, such as telemedicine and remote patient monitoring. As we transition into the post-COVID era of medicine, these novel technologies will be critical in enhancing patient safety and satisfaction, while reducing rising healthcare costs. Herein, we review the basic principles of AI in plastic surgery and illustrate its significance in remote postoperative monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid40351412,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Zhu, B and Lu, J and Dong, Z and Li, P and Li, W and Zheng, C and Chang, J and Shang, S},
title = {Advances in the effectiveness and safety of azvudine treatment: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1524072},
pmid = {40351412},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {The global impact of COVID-19 has highlighted the urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions against SARS-CoV-2. Azvudine, a dual-target nucleoside drug initially developed for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), has gained attention for its potential in treating COVID-19. On 25 July 2022, Azvudine received conditional approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China, making it the first oral SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) inhibitor for COVID-19 treatment. This review explores the pharmacological activity, antiviral mechanisms, and clinical effectiveness of azvudine in the context of COVID-19. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to reduce the viral load, shorten the time to nucleic acid negativity, and improve clinical outcomes in patients. Additionally, azvudine has shown excellent pharmacokinetic properties and a favorable safety profile with mild side effects. The review also addresses the importance of drug interactions and safety considerations, particularly in high-risk populations. Research should focus on optimizing second-generation inhibitors with enhanced effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 variants, improving oral bioavailability, and minimizing adverse effects, ensuring more robust treatment options for COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40350816,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, FY and Jing, ZW and Ge, JW and Mei, ZG},
title = {[Exploration of biological essence of blood heat syndrome and mechanism of blood-cooling traditional Chinese medicine from combination of disease and syndrome].},
journal = {Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica},
volume = {50},
number = {4},
pages = {985-993},
doi = {10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20241108.502},
pmid = {40350816},
issn = {1001-5302},
mesh = {Humans ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods ; *Hyperthermia/therapy/diagnosis ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Blood heat syndrome, one of the main subtypes of blood syndrome in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), is mainly diagnosed by bleeding and heat manifestations and treated by the blood-cooling method. The biological essence of blood heat syndrome has not been elucidated yet, and there is a lack of systematic research on the potential mechanisms underlying the blood-cooling method. The biological essence of blood heat syndrome is closely related to abnormal immune response, oxidative stress, coagulation dysfunction, endocrine disorders, abnormalities in energy metabolism and so on. Blood heat syndrome is common in autoimmune skin diseases(such as systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, and purpura), central hyperthermia, infectious diseases(such as infectious mononucleosis and COVID-19), and hemorrhagic diseases in gynecology. As the primary clinical therapy for blood heat syndrome, blood-cooling TCM is usually combined with the TCM with effects of activating blood and resolving stasis, nourishing Yin,and extinguishing wind to play the role of cooling blood. The mechanisms of above therapies may be attributed to reducing inflammation, inhibiting oxidative stress, restoring the balance of blood coagulation and metabolism, regulating the secretion of sex hormones, and alleviating allergic reactions. This article systematically explores the biological essence of blood heat syndrome and elucidates the targets and underlying mechanism of the blood-cooling method, laying a scientific foundation for the clinical application of TCM in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with blood heat syndrome.},
}

Humans
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods
*Hyperthermia/therapy/diagnosis
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
Syndrome

@article {pmid40350728,
year = {2025},
author = {Nemkova, SA},
title = {[Modern approaches to diagnosis and treatment of postinfectious asthenic syndrome in children].},
journal = {Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova},
volume = {125},
number = {4},
pages = {42-52},
doi = {10.17116/jnevro202512504142},
pmid = {40350728},
issn = {1997-7298},
mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Asthenia/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/therapy ; *Picolines/therapeutic use ; Influenza, Human/complications ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/complications ; Syndrome ; COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {The article is devoted to an urgent problem - the diagnosis and treatment of Postinfectious asthenic syndrome in children and adolescents. The issues of etiology and pathogenesis, classification and clinical manifestations of postinfectious asthenia in children are considered in detail. Special attention is paid to the asthenic syndrome after acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, neuroinfections, and coronavirus infection. The high efficacy of the drug Mexidol in the prevention and comprehensive correction of postinfectious asthenic disorders, as well as concomitant autonomic, cognitive and emotional disorders in children and adolescents has been shown.},
}

Humans
Child
Adolescent
*Asthenia/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/therapy
*Picolines/therapeutic use
Influenza, Human/complications
*Respiratory Tract Infections/complications
Syndrome
COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid40350570,
year = {2025},
author = {Loh, CTI and Lee, ZY and Yunos, NM and Atan, R and Heyland, DK and Stoppe, C and Hasan, MS},
title = {Association of muscularity status with clinical and physical function outcomes in critically ill patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jpen.2767},
pmid = {40350570},
issn = {1941-2444},
abstract = {Pre-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) critical care research underscored the importance of muscularity on patient outcomes. This study investigates the association between skeletal muscle mass and quality with clinical and physical function outcomes in critically ill patients with COVID-19. We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL from database inception to April 24, 2024, for studies using objective methods to evaluate muscularity in critically ill adults with COVID-19, without language restrictions. Co-primary outcomes were overall mortality and muscle strength. Random-effect meta-analyses were performed in RevMan 5.4.1. We included 20 studies (N = 1818), assessing muscularity via computed tomography (twelve studies), ultrasound (seven studies), and bioelectrical impedance analysis (one study); none had low risk of bias. In analyses of high vs low muscularity, high muscle mass was significantly associated with lower overall mortality (nine studies; risk ratio = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.57-0.98; P = 0.03). When muscularity was analyzed as a continuous variable, COVID-19 survivors had higher skeletal muscle area (SMA) (13 studies; mean difference [MD] = 1.18; 95% CI, 0.03-2.33; P = 0.05) confirmed by sensitivity analysis using standardized MD (0.23, 95% CI 0.05-0.42, P = 0.01) and significantly higher muscle quality (five studies; standardized MD = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.20-0.70; P = 0.0004). Muscle strength findings were inconsistent: one study showed significant correlations between muscle strength with muscle mass parameters (r = 0.365-0.375, P < 0.001) whereas another found no association. In critically ill adults with COVID-19, high muscle mass was associated with lower mortality risk. Survivors had significantly higher SMA and muscle quality. Findings on physical function outcomes remain inconclusive (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022384155).},
}

@article {pmid40350558,
year = {2025},
author = {Uzzell, J and Divin, C and Zinn, K},
title = {Integration of Student Well-Being in Undergraduate Nursing Curricula: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Worldviews on evidence-based nursing},
volume = {22},
number = {3},
pages = {e70029},
doi = {10.1111/wvn.70029},
pmid = {40350558},
issn = {1741-6787},
mesh = {Humans ; *Students, Nursing/psychology ; *Curriculum/trends/standards ; *Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods/standards ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nursing school causes immense stress for students, and the attrition rate is high. Nurse educators have long been aware of the documented relationship between well-being and academic success, as well as the anxiety, depression, insomnia, fear, and exhaustion that result in student burnout. However, there has been little change in the nursing curriculum, and few nursing curricula include student well-being education.

AIM: This scoping review aimed to search the literature for student well-being education concepts integrated into the nursing curriculum.

METHODS: This scoping review was performed on Scopus 20, American Psychological Association's (APA) PsychNet database, and CINAHL database using Arksey and O'Malley's 6-step methodology. Search terms included nursing AND student AND well-being AND curricula OR education OR curriculum. Articles were excluded if they were graduate-level education, not faculty or student-focused, not in an academic setting, or if the study was completed in a foreign country or was COVID-19 pandemic-related. Other limitations were the years 2020-2024 and in the English language.

RESULTS: A total of 19 articles were chosen for inclusion in the scoping review. Ninety-nine articles were found on Scopus 20 and limited by careful analysis to 16. No eligible articles were found on APA PsychNet. The CINAHL database produced four articles, with two chosen for inclusion after a full-text review. One article was found through hand-searching during the literature search process. Articles discussed using one well-being course, integrating a specific well-being program, utilizing multiple well-being activities, developing faculty training skills for the integration of well-being, and creating a shared agenda for the design of well-being activities within the nursing curriculum.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION: The nursing curriculum should include well-being activities in each nursing course. Supporting nursing students' well-being will enhance their academic success and decrease burnout.},
}

Humans
*Students, Nursing/psychology
*Curriculum/trends/standards
*Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods/standards
COVID-19

@article {pmid40350182,
year = {2025},
author = {Matsumoto, K and Prowle, JR and Puthucheary, Z and Cecconi, M and Fazzini, B and Malcolm, H and Nydahl, P and Osman, M and Santini, A and Schaller, SJ and Thomson, W and van den Berke, D and Poll, M and Stephens, T},
title = {Uncertainty and decision-making in critical care: lessons from managing COVID-19 ARDS in preparation for the next pandemic.},
journal = {BMJ open respiratory research},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjresp-2024-002637},
pmid = {40350182},
issn = {2052-4439},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology ; *Critical Care/methods ; Uncertainty ; *Respiration, Artificial/methods ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy ; *Clinical Decision-Making ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Decision Making ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was an emergent syndrome that led to high volumes of critically ill ventilated patients. We explored influences on decision-making regarding management of COVID-19 ARDS mechanical ventilation to identify modifiable factors to improve preparedness for future pandemics.

METHODS: A systematic review and small group interviews informed the development of an international questionnaire (UK, Italy, Germany and Netherlands) on factors influencing COVID-19 ARDS ventilation decision-making in critical care professionals. Participants ranked four themes in order of importance: disease (uncertainties around COVID-19 ARDS), contextual (cognitive strain), environmental (structural logistics) and team factors. Participants also ranked the subthemes within each theme. Thematic analysis was used to derive findings from qualitative data. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U and Kendall's tau were used for quantitative data analysis.

RESULTS: Patient factors (comorbidities, clinical/biochemical parameters) were the most studied influences in the extant literature on decision-making; uncertainty was one of the least studied. 371 critical care professionals responded to the questionnaire. Disease uncertainty (lack of applicable guidelines, unfamiliarity with pathophysiology) was ranked as the most important influence on ventilation decision-making for COVID-19 ARDS across regions, professions and experience levels (p<0.001). Participants expressed underconfidence in their decision-making (median score: 9/20); this was unaffected by experience (p=0.79) or profession (p=0.58). Qualitative findings supported and extended the initial proposed influences, including the impact of team factors (+ve) and resource limitations (-ve) on disease uncertainty.

CONCLUSION: Future pandemic preparedness programmes should target modifiable influences such as information sharing, teamworking and resource limitations to mitigate against the negative influence of uncertainty and thereby improve decision-making overall.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology
*Critical Care/methods
Uncertainty
*Respiration, Artificial/methods
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy
*Clinical Decision-Making
SARS-CoV-2
*Decision Making
Surveys and Questionnaires
Pandemics

@article {pmid40350153,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, J},
title = {Introduction to burnout and well-being for anesthesiologists in South Korea: narrative and brief review.},
journal = {Anesthesia and pain medicine},
volume = {20},
number = {2},
pages = {121-126},
doi = {10.17085/apm.25244},
pmid = {40350153},
issn = {2383-7977},
abstract = {Burnout is a widespread occupational issue in the medical field, posing significant risks to both physician health and patient care worldwide. While the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the impact of systemic factors-such as excessive workloads, administrative burdens, and inefficiencies-in exacerbating physician burnout, discussions about well-being remain limited in South Korea. Given the recent challenges faced by healthcare professionals in Korea, addressing burnout has become urgent to prevent further negative outcomes. Although individual efforts toward wellness are important, they are insufficient without systemic support. Distinguishing between burnout and well-being is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Drawing on global examples, comprehensive strategies-including policy reforms, organizational support, mental health resources, and cultural shifts-are recommended to create a sustainable and supportive environment for anesthesiologists in Korea.},
}

@article {pmid40349995,
year = {2025},
author = {Pita Dos Santos, LG and da Silva Coutinho, G and Rodrigues Guimarães, JM and Miranda da Silva, M and Francisco da Silva, A and Marcelino Neto, PP and Coral Rodrigues, BC and Aaron de Almeida, W and Carlos Alves Dos Santos, AJ and Napoleão, TH and Pontual, EV},
title = {Advances in COVID-19 Therapeutics: Exploring the Role of Lectins and Protease Inhibitors.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107687},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107687},
pmid = {40349995},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The rapid global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has demanded innovative approaches to treatment and prevention. This article reviews the current landscape of COVID-19 therapeutics and vaccines, emphasizing the role of biotechnological products, particularly lectins and protease inhibitors. SARS-CoV-2, a single-stranded RNA virus, infects host cells via its spike (S) protein, which binds to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. This interaction is facilitated by host proteases like TMPRSS2, which are critical for viral entry. Treatments for COVID-19 primarily focus on antiviral drugs, anti-inflammatory agents, and monoclonal antibodies. Protease inhibitors that target viral enzymes like Mpro and PLpro have demonstrated potential. Additionally, vaccines, including mRNA-based, DNA-based, and those using viral vectors or inactivated viruses, are essential for preventing new infections. Lectins, proteins that bind specifically to carbohydrates, have emerged as potential antiviral agents. They can impede viral entry by binding to glycoproteins on the virus's surface or modulate immune responses. Studies indicate that lectins like cyanovirin-N and griffithsin exhibit significant antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. While most of the research on these biotechnological products is still in preclinical or early stages, their potential for treating and preventing COVID-19 is substantial. Further investigation and clinical trials are crucial to validate their efficacy and safety. This article underscores the need for continued exploration of novel therapeutic strategies to combat the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. However, the review is limited by the scarcity of clinical data on these products, highlighting the need for translational research.},
}

@article {pmid40349784,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, S and Sun, C and Qian, T and Chen, Y and Dong, X and Wang, A and Zhang, Q and Ji, Y and Jin, Z and Liu, C and Zhao, K},
title = {Animal vaccine revolution: Nanoparticle adjuvants open the future of vaccinology.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {113827},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.113827},
pmid = {40349784},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {In recent years, the rapid development of nanoparticle adjuvants has greatly facilitated the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases in humans and animals. The remarkable success of mRNA nanovaccines against SARS-CoV-2 has accelerated the advancement of nanoparticle adjuvant technologies in the era of precision medicine. Significant progress has been made in researching nanovaccines for major animal infectious diseases, such as porcine epidemic diarrhea, avian influenza, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, bovine viral diarrhea, foot-and-mouth disease, African swine fever, and Newcastle disease. This article reviews the nanoparticle adjuvants under investigation for animal use, emphasizing their diverse mechanisms of action and immunological properties, and analyzes the physicochemical factors influencing their immune-enhancing effects. On this basis, we discuss future prospects and key challenges that need to be addressed, aiming to provide valuable references for the development of novel animal vaccine adjuvants.},
}

@article {pmid40349479,
year = {2025},
author = {Walsh, A and McCarthy, J and Bradshaw, C},
title = {Impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on bereavement care provided within maternity services: A focused mapping review and synthesis.},
journal = {Midwifery},
volume = {147},
number = {},
pages = {104445},
doi = {10.1016/j.midw.2025.104445},
pmid = {40349479},
issn = {1532-3099},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Perinatal bereavement is the experience of parents after the death of an infant due to miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, or elective termination of pregnancy for fetal anomaly. Perinatal loss is a traumatic event for parents and the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals (HCPs) can impact their grieving process. In March 2020, Covid-19 was declared a global pandemic, with significant consequences on perinatal bereavement services.

AIM: To explore parents and HCPs experiences of perinatal bereavement care during the Covid-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A focused mapping review and synthesis was used to identify papers which concentrated on perinatal bereavement care within maternity services during the Covid-19 pandemic. Studies meeting the criteria in peer reviewed midwifery, obstetric and healthcare journals (n = 6), published between Jan 2020-Feb 2025 were descriptively analysed, providing a topography and synthesis of the key trends identified.

FINDINGS: Fourteen relevant studies were identified in the review period, six of which met the inclusion criteria, with two themes identified: Maternity service reconfiguration due to Covid-19 restrictions and Loneliness and anxiety inducing experiences among parents.

CONCLUSION: The Covid-19 pandemic negatively impacted bereavement care within maternity services. Maternity reconfiguration because of the pandemic was a major contributor to dissatisfaction and frustration amongst bereaved parents and HCPs. Exclusion of partners had a negative effect on parents' experiences of care, augmenting the loneliness and anxiety felt by parents when dealing with loss. Perinatal bereavement guidelines need to accentuate the importance of partner inclusion in any context but particularly when providing care to women requiring isolation or barrier nursing. Guidelines must be reviewed to clearly outline when the use of virtual care is appropriate within the maternity setting. Additional research is needed to assess the long-term impacts of Covid 19 on HCPs. Such research includes identifying effective mechanisms to help staff deal with the stress and emotional impact of future public health emergencies.},
}

@article {pmid40349297,
year = {2025},
author = {Arries-Kleyenstuber, E and Dierck de Casterlé, B and Kynoch, K and Ramis, MA and Suhonen, R and Ventura, C and Morley, G},
title = {Ethical challenges nurses faced during the COVID-19 pandemic: Scoping review.},
journal = {Nursing ethics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {9697330251339417},
doi = {10.1177/09697330251339417},
pmid = {40349297},
issn = {1477-0989},
abstract = {Nurses encountered a myriad of ethical challenges during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as allocation of scarce resources, the need to balance duty of care with safety of self as well as visitation restrictions. The impact of these challenges on the nursing workforce requires investigation. The aim of this review was to scope and describe the reported literature on ethical challenges faced by nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, including contextual characteristics and strategies reported to address these challenges. The review was conducted in accordance with JBI methods for scoping reviews and reported using PRISMA-ScR guidance. A published protocol guided conduct of the review. The following databases were searched for eligible studies from November 2019 to January 2023: PubMed, CINAHL, Ovid, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus. No language restrictions were applied. Studies were reviewed for inclusion by two independent reviewers, and a data extraction form was developed to extract data relevant to the review questions. Results were analyzed and presented according to the concepts of interest, using tables, figures, and supporting narrative synthesis. After searching the databases, 2150 citations were retrieved with 47 studies included in the review. Studies represented 23 countries across five continents. Most of the studies used qualitative designs. Ethical challenges were described in several ways, often without appealing to common ethics language or terms. Few studies reported on strategies to address the specific challenges, which may reflect the dynamic nature of the pandemic. The scoping review highlights the complex and, at times, overwhelming impact of ethical challenges faced by nurses across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from the review can be used as a basis for further research to explore, develop, and implement strategies to address ethical challenges faced by nurses during future public health crises.},
}

@article {pmid40348572,
year = {2025},
author = {Garcia, JF and Reid, MW and Raymond, JK},
title = {Designing, Implementing, and Adapting Virtual Care Models for Marginalized Communities.},
journal = {Endocrinology and metabolism clinics of North America},
volume = {54},
number = {2},
pages = {315-328},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecl.2025.02.018},
pmid = {40348572},
issn = {1558-4410},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Endocrine System Diseases/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Healthcare Disparities ; },
abstract = {Telehealth and virtual care models are viable solutions to disparities impacting diverse or marginalized communities with endocrine disorders. Racially and ethnically diverse children with endocrine disorders and their families have not been adequately represented in research or granted equal access to these innovative models. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic highlighted disparities but also provided an opportunity to adapt telehealth and virtual care models across institutions. To ensure the success of these care models, diverse children and their families must be included in their development, implementation, and adaptation.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Endocrine System Diseases/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Healthcare Disparities

@article {pmid40348543,
year = {2025},
author = {Razzaq, A and Prager, KM and Garan, AR and Hastie, J and Brodie, D and Abrams, D},
title = {Ethical Considerations for Mechanical Support.},
journal = {Anesthesiology clinics},
volume = {43},
number = {2},
pages = {267-282},
doi = {10.1016/j.anclin.2025.02.003},
pmid = {40348543},
issn = {1932-2275},
mesh = {Humans ; *Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/ethics/methods ; Heart Failure/therapy ; Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy ; },
abstract = {Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) has the ability to support patients with severe forms of cardiac and respiratory failure. Rapid expansion of ECLS, its resource-intensive and invasive nature, and the high acuity illness of supported patients have raised important questions. Specific issues include identification of patients most likely to benefit, the appropriate duration of support amid uncertain prognosis, and what to do when patients become dependent on ECLS but no longer have hope for recovery or transplantation. Careful deliberation of ethical principles and potential dilemmas should be made when considering the use of ECLS in advanced cardiopulmonary failure.},
}

Humans
*Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/ethics/methods
Heart Failure/therapy
Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy

@article {pmid40348041,
year = {2025},
author = {Ayyad, M and Alya, WA and Barabrah, AM and Darawish, SM and AlHabil, Y and MohammedAli, M and Nabilsi, MZ and Asad, D and Ayasa, LA and Matassa, D},
title = {Autoimmune hemolytic anemia in COVID-19 patients: A systematic review of 105 cases on clinical characteristics and outcomes.},
journal = {Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {110512},
doi = {10.1016/j.clim.2025.110512},
pmid = {40348041},
issn = {1521-7035},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has been linked to autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), a rare but serious condition causing red blood cell destruction. This systematic review examines the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of AIHA in COVID-19 patients.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus identified 85 studies encompassing 105 patients. Data on demographics, clinical features, and treatment outcomes were extracted.

RESULTS: Of 1402 articles, 85 met inclusion criteria. Most patients were male (54.3 %) with a mean age of 50.6 years, predominantly from Asia (83.5 %). Cold agglutinin AIHA was most common (48.2 %). Presenting symptoms included fatigue, dyspnea, and fever. Steroids were the most effective treatment, used in 95 % of recovered cases. Mortality was 14.3 %, with 26.7 % of deaths directly related to AIHA.

CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 is associated with AIHA, often presenting with non-specific symptoms. Early recognition and prompt steroid therapy are critical for improving outcomes. Further research is needed to guide management.},
}

@article {pmid40347741,
year = {2025},
author = {J, P and Lavanya, P and A, M and Kumar C, N},
title = {Recent advances in the diagnosis of fungal zoonoses in India: A comprehensive overview.},
journal = {Molecular aspects of medicine},
volume = {103},
number = {},
pages = {101366},
doi = {10.1016/j.mam.2025.101366},
pmid = {40347741},
issn = {1872-9452},
abstract = {Fungal infections are most common in integumentary and systemic parts of the body. The outbreak of fungal infections was observed in several disease conditions like Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), chronic obstructive disease (COPD), malignancies and others like COVID-19 associated Mucormycosis (Black fungus) among Indian population. The main objective of the study is to examine the recent advanced techniques available in India for the diagnosis of fungal infections. We conclude that the study has mainly focuses on the recent advances on the diagnosis of fungal infections in India. The prevalence of zoonotic fungal infections among humans is alarming, and global health is moving towards the existence of a one-health approach.},
}

@article {pmid40346732,
year = {2025},
author = {Helmold, M and Amann, R},
title = {Advancing ORFV-Based Therapeutics to the Clinical Stage.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {e70038},
pmid = {40346732},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {//Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz/ ; ZUK63//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Oncolytic Virotherapy/methods ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Oncolytic Viruses/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {The Orf virus (ORFV) is the prototype member of the parapoxvirus family and has long been recognized for its robust immunogenicity, favourable safety profile and its ability to stimulate both cellular and humoural immune responses without inducing significant anti-vector immunity. Despite these inherent advantages, early applications of ORFV-based technologies were limited by challenges in manufacturing scalability and uncertainties regarding clinical safety in humans. However, recent breakthroughs have transformed this therapeutic landscape. A landmark achievement is the development of Prime-2-CoV, an ORFV-based anti-COVID-19 vaccine that has advanced into human clinical trials, providing the first clinical evidence of live ORFV's feasibility, safety and immunogenicity. This milestone, together with the establishment of a good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant production process and comprehensive preclinical evaluations, has laid a robust foundation for broader clinical applications of ORFV-based therapeutics. Moreover, the use of ORFV as an oncolytic virus therapy has shown promising results, effectively converting immunologically 'cold' tumours into 'hot' ones, underscoring its versatility as a therapeutic platform. In this review, we critically assess recent advances in ORFV-based therapeutics, with a particular focus on vaccine development and oncolytic virotherapy (OVT). We thoroughly discuss the milestones and impact of the first ORFV-based clinical trial, outline strategies for optimizing the technology and provide insights into overcoming remaining challenges. Collectively, these advancements position ORFV as a highly promising and versatile platform for next-generation prophylactic and therapeutic interventions in both human and veterinary medicine, while also providing a roadmap for future innovations.},
}

Humans
*Oncolytic Virotherapy/methods
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Clinical Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Oncolytic Viruses/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid40346621,
year = {2025},
author = {Kenney, M and Mamo, L},
title = {Precision public health after Covid-19: a scoping review.},
journal = {International journal for equity in health},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {129},
pmid = {40346621},
issn = {1475-9276},
support = {2218494//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; 2218494//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Public Health/methods ; *Health Equity ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Precision Medicine ; },
abstract = {"Precision public health" (PPH) emerged in 2015 as a charismatic vision to revolutionize traditional public health with data-driven solutions to the world's most challenging public health problems. A central goal of PPH is to use population-level data to improve health equity by targeting geographically localized at-risk populations. For this article, we conducted a scoping review to investigate whether and how PPH approaches were used for Covid-19 pandemic response and how they incorporated health equity goals in their approaches. We found that during the Covid-19 pandemic, discussions of PPH in the academic literature mostly focused on potential future implementation of PPH rather than on-the-ground Covid-19 pandemic response. In the few articles that described a research project and/or public health intervention at the intersection of PPH and Covid-19, researchers articulated PPH together with three sets of Covid-19 era public health practices: 1) vulnerability indexes; 2) near real-time surveillance; 3) pathogen sequencing. In each of these articulations, the most common method for achieving health equity was using epidemiological surveillance data to create risk stratification to direct resources to the most vulnerable. As these new articulations are tentative and have not yet become common in public health literature and policy, the article ends with a critical call to interrogate which versions of health equity are enacted and foreclosed in data-driven approaches to public health and how PPH can best serve vulnerable populations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Public Health/methods
*Health Equity
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Precision Medicine

@article {pmid40346581,
year = {2025},
author = {Kuandyk, A and Toleukhanova, N and Dmitriyeva, M and Suleimenov, T and Sarssenov, D and Mamytkhan, R and Sakhayev, M and Tleubergenov, A and Toleubayev, M},
title = {Indicators associated with job morale of physicians in low- and middle-income countries during the COVID- 19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {669},
pmid = {40346581},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Morale ; *Job Satisfaction ; *Developing Countries ; Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; *Physicians/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Motivation ; Depression/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID- 19 pandemic has placed immense strain on healthcare systems around the globe, with low- and middle-income countries facing unique challenges due to limited resources and fragile healthcare infrastructures. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to define the levels of four indicators of job morale (job motivation, job satisfaction, burnout, and depression symptoms) among physicians working in public healthcare settings in low- and middle-income countries.

METHODS: A comprehensive search of Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and grey literature was performed. Studies were eligible if at least one job morale indicator (job motivation, job satisfaction, burnout, or depression symptoms) was assessed using quantitative methods, and at least 50% of the sample were qualified physicians working in low- and middle-income countries during the COVID- 19 pandemic. Random effects meta-analyses, planned sub-group analyses, and meta-regression were performed.

RESULTS: Overall, 82 studies involving 65,431 participants across 26 middle-income countries met the inclusion criteria for the review. The pooled random effect estimates of the prevalence of burnout suggest that 49% of physicians working in middle-income countries during the COVID- 19 pandemic suffered from professional burnout. The overall estimate of the mean was 24.64, which also indicated a high level of burnout. The pooled random effect estimates of the prevalence of depression symptoms varied from 41 to 58%, depending on the adopted scale. Sufficient data were not available for meta-analyses of job motivation and job satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that job morale among physicians working in middle-income countries was generally low during the COVID- 19 pandemic. However, due to substantial variation and limited methodological quality among the studies included, any conclusions offered should be approached with caution. Future research should focus on assessing job morale in low-income regions and identifying effective resilience strategies to support interventions aimed at improving job morale.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Morale
*Job Satisfaction
*Developing Countries
Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology
*Physicians/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Motivation
Depression/epidemiology

@article {pmid40344415,
year = {2025},
author = {Bruno Ortiz, TN and DeChristofaro, SC and Cheng, M and Alegría, M},
title = {Community Health Workers Research: Where Are We Now? A Narrative Review of an Expanding Workforce for Mental Health.},
journal = {Harvard review of psychiatry},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {103-113},
doi = {10.1097/HRP.0000000000000427},
pmid = {40344415},
issn = {1465-7309},
mesh = {Humans ; *Community Health Workers/education ; *COVID-19 ; *Mental Health Services ; },
abstract = {In an evolving health care landscape, community health workers (CHWs) have emerged as invaluable assets, bridging gaps to mental health service access and fostering community resilience. In this article, we explore the multifaceted responsibilities shouldered by CHWs, encompassing outreach, education, and support, and underscore their unique abilities to establish trust within diverse communities. We also highlight evolving recognition of CHWs as integral health care team members and examine the growing body of evidence on CHW effectiveness in enhancing mental health outcomes, reducing disparities, and promoting preventative measures. Additionally, we review how, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CHW role has shifted with increased demand for their services within the mental health care landscape. The pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities in existing health care structures, disproportionately affecting communities with limited resource access, including mental health support. Furthermore, we review six primary research domains that could potentially help expand the CHW workforce: standardization and training, sustainability and retention, integration into health systems, impact measurement, cost-effectiveness and financing, and scaling up and adaptation. Last, we examine the pandemic's transformative effects on CHWs; we shed light on their resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges and underscore their heightened relevance within the evolving health care response paradigm post-COVID.},
}

Humans
*Community Health Workers/education
*COVID-19
*Mental Health Services

@article {pmid40343622,
year = {2025},
author = {Trigg, LA and Farmer, C and Muthukumar, M and Wilson, ECF and Lovell, A and Lee, D},
title = {The Cost Effectiveness of Elective Surgical Procedures with Longer NHS Waiting Lists: A Targeted Review.},
journal = {Applied health economics and health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40343622},
issn = {1179-1896},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to review the evidence for the cost effectiveness of elective surgeries with long waiting lists within the NHS in England. This is to inform understanding of national spending priorities in the context of significant demand for elective surgeries and to inform the debate on appropriate cost-effectiveness thresholds across healthcare decision making.

METHODS: We conducted a targeted literature review to identify published cost-effectiveness analyses for nine elective procedures with long waiting lists in the NHS, selected based on previous reviews. These were percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG), hysterectomy, cholecystectomy, knee replacement, groin hernia repair, hip replacement, prostatectomy, and cataract surgery. We made comparisons adjusted for currency and price year (2024).

RESULTS: We identified 21 evaluations; in these, the cost effectiveness of surgeries was compared with no surgery (n = 9), medical management (n = 5), and between early and delayed surgery (n = 10). The evaluations reported that almost all procedures would be considered cost effective yielding incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) below £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained. Cholecystectomy, prostatectomy, hip and knee replacement surgeries were associated with ICERs of between £5,000 and £10,000.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings offer insights for policymakers on optimising finite healthcare resources, particularly post-COVID-19, with surgical waiting lists a priority for the NHS. Prioritising these elective procedures is likely to be a highly cost-effective use of NHS resources. Allocation of investment to areas that are more cost effective than others is likely to increase the efficiency of the NHS, resulting in a net health gain compared with the reimbursement of less cost-effective interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40343424,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhattacharya, S and Bhattacharjee, S and Singh, A},
title = {Human Metapneumovirus: A Comprehensive Epidemiological Analysis of a Global Respiratory Threat.},
journal = {Infection & chemotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3947/ic.2025.0019},
pmid = {40343424},
issn = {2093-2340},
abstract = {Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen that contributes to acute respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Since its discovery in 2001, HMPV has become a global health concern, with epidemiological data revealing seasonal peaks and notable genetic diversity. The virus is associated with a wide range of respiratory illnesses, including bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma exacerbations, leading to substantial hospitalization rates and healthcare costs. This review examines the epidemiology of HMPV, focusing on pre- and post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) trends, transmission patterns, and the impact on at-risk populations. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the seasonality of HMPV, with altered patterns of viral circulation and co-infection with other respiratory pathogens, such as respiratory syncytial virus and influenza. Despite its considerable impact, HMPV remains under-recognized and lacks specific antivirals or vaccines, leaving management largely supportive. Advances in molecular diagnostics, including RT-PCR and potential serological methods, offer hope for improved detection and epidemiological tracking. Moreover, research into monoclonal antibodies, antiviral treatments, and vaccines is ongoing, with promising results in preclinical models. Enhanced surveillance systems and integrated approaches to monitor co-circulating viruses are essential for mitigating the burden of HMPV. This review underscores the need for continued research, public health strategies, and global collaboration to address the challenges posed by HMPV, particularly in high-risk populations and regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.},
}

@article {pmid40343212,
year = {2025},
author = {Ofori, MA and Lartey, S and Durneva, P and Jha, N and Mittal, N and Roy, S and Zeba, Z and Chirwa, S and Saulsberry-Scarboro, N and Taylor, M and Joshi, A},
title = {Visual communication of public health data: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in digital health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1555231},
pmid = {40343212},
issn = {2673-253X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Visual communications (VC) play a crucial role in effectively conveying public health data to diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public. Although the U.S. government invests heavily in health data and data accessibility, health data are not entirely accessible or easily understood. This can be attributed to data sharing and visualization challenges. VC challenges have created public health information gaps which are compounded in emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially impacting poor health outcomes and increasing health inequities.

OBJECTIVE: To examine visualization tools and techniques effective for public health visual data communication.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted to summarize the available evidence related to visualization techniques and tools for public health visual data communication as well as related principles and best practices. Original peer-reviewed articles published in English that involve visualization, user-centered design of visual public health applications/interfaces, visual analytics, infographics, or dashboards from PubMed database from 2020 to 2024 were included. Also, review articles, commentaries, editorials, posters, systematic and scoping articles were excluded from this review. In all, twenty-eight (28) studies were included.

RESULTS: There were 25 different visualization techniques identified which included charts and graphs (e.g., bar charts, line charts, pie charts, bubble charts, box plots, scatter plots), maps (e.g., choropleth maps, hotspot maps, and heatmaps), and specialized visualizations (e.g., sunburst diagrams, alluvial plots, upset plots, circos). These visuals were displayed employing different programming and statistical tools and libraries like R, Python, Power BI, Tableau, ArcGIS, and custom web-based applications. The visuals measured different types of data accessibility, pattern and trends identification, association and relationships of univariate and bivariate data, as well as exploring multidimensional forms of health data. The visualizations were applied in different public health domains, such as HIV prevention and care, public health communication, interventions, surveillance, policy measures and decision-making, and improving health education.

CONCLUSION: Dashboards and web-based tools combined with static visualizations like charts, maps, or specialized plots can help with data exploration, pattern recognition, and dissemination of health information. Effective communication of public health data promotes informed decision-making, creates awareness, and leads to improved and better health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40343137,
year = {2025},
author = {Foley, DA and Phuong, LK},
title = {RSV: an update on prevention and management.},
journal = {Australian prescriber},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {34-39},
pmid = {40343137},
issn = {0312-8008},
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory tract infections in infants and young children, and adults over 60 years of age. Infants born prematurely, adults aged over 75 years, individuals with medical conditions such as chronic cardiac or respiratory disease, or obesity, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are at increased risk of severe RSV disease. As the management of RSV disease is mainly supportive, routine testing for RSV in people with a respiratory illness is not recommended. In high-risk populations and individuals presenting with severe illness, respiratory virus testing should prioritise influenza and COVID-19, as there are specific antiviral drugs for these diseases. Recent approval of RSV vaccines and a new long-acting RSV monoclonal antibody has created opportunities to minimise adverse outcomes associated with RSV infection. Protection against severe RSV disease in infants can be achieved through vaccination of their mother between weeks 28 and 36 of pregnancy, or by administering an RSV monoclonal antibody after delivery. There is currently no RSV vaccine approved for neonates or infants. For older adults, at the time of writing there are 2 approved RSV vaccines available.},
}

@article {pmid40342869,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, D and Hua, W and Sun, F and Wen, C and Cheong, LY and Xie, R and Chan, KH and Chan, SCW and Li, X and Ye, S and Yap, DYH},
title = {The changes in global burden of autoimmune diseases two years after the COVID-19 pandemic: a trend analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.},
journal = {Journal of translational autoimmunity},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100289},
pmid = {40342869},
issn = {2589-9090},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Data on the epidemiological changes in the global burden of autoimmune diseases (ADs) after the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is lacking. This study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global burden of ADs, including psoriasis (PsO), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), type 1 diabetes (T1DM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS: Age-standardized rates (ASR), including incidence (ASIR), prevalence (ASPR), disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and death (ASDR), were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 from 1990 to 2021. The changes in number and ASR of ADs burden were assessed by absolute and relative increases comparing 2021 to 2019. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to determine whether the year 2019 marked the substantial changes in trends of ASR across global, 21 geographical regions, and 204 countries. The correlations between COVID-19 incidence, vaccination and the relative increased ASIR/ASPR of ADs were also evaluated.

RESULTS: Joinpoint regression analysis identified 2019 as a pivotal year, marking a global increase in the burden of PsO. The global ASR of PsO in 2021 showed an increased incidence, prevalence, and DALYs of 0.78, 5, and 0.33 DALYs per 100,000, respectively, compared to 2019 (194.1 × 10[3] cases, 1651.3 × 10[3] cases, and 131.4 × 10[3] DALYs, respectively). Notable absolute increases in PsO incidence rates in 2021 were observed in regions with a high socio-demographic index, particularly among individuals aged 50 to 54 and among males. Furthermore, 2019 marked a joinpoint with increased ASIR or ASPR of ADs in various regions, notably PsO in High-income North America, Southern Latin America, and South Asia, as well as IBD in Southern and Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa, Central Europe, and East Asia. Regional data from the USA, England, and Japan indicated a positive correlation between COVID-19 incidence and relative increases in the burden of PsO in 2020 (Spearman R 0.35, 0.24, and 0.36, respectively, for incidence; R 0.35, 0.2, and 0.36, respectively, for prevalence; all p < 0.05). Additionally, 2021 state-level vaccination rates in the USA were negatively correlated with the relative increases in the ASIR of PsO and RA (R: 0.27 and -0.54, respectively; p < 0.001 for all), as well as the ASPR of PsO, RA, and MS (R: 0.45, -0.49, and -0.41, respectively; p < 0.01 for all) in 2021.

CONCLUSIONS: The year 2019 marked a pivotal point for increased global burden of PsO and regional burdens of other ADs. These observations have important implications for subsequent healthcare planning and resource allocation.},
}

@article {pmid40341792,
year = {2025},
author = {Madiha, and Shahzadi, A and Ashiq, Z},
title = {Community engagement: the missing piece in solving the puzzle of XDR-typhoid spread in Pakistan.},
journal = {Journal of public health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40341792},
issn = {1745-655X},
abstract = {Typhoid has been a major infectious health threat for the masses in Pakistan with increasing antimicrobial resistance, socio-economic decline, and environmental challenges. Since 2019, the percentage of cases has reduced with the implementation of Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) program but reports of widened geographical spread particularly as aftermath of flooding in 2022 and resistance to Azithromycin or Meropenem in adult population are a matter of serious concern. Now is the right time to reconsider whether strategies like mass immunization or health infrastructure development solely can combat the hazards of Extensively Drug-Resistant (XDR)-Typhoid. Public health policies developed due to COVID-19, such as incorporating all stakeholders especially the public through community engagement, may provide a collaborative effort to lessen the prevailing threat of antibiotic resistance.},
}