@article {pmid39710596,
year = {2024},
author = {Itambo, J and Owusu, B and McCamey, D and Baptiste, DL},
title = {A Critical Need for Advanced Practice Nurse Education in Sub-Saharan Africa and Lessons Learned From the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Discursive Review.},
journal = {Nursing open},
volume = {11},
number = {12},
pages = {e70079},
pmid = {39710596},
issn = {2054-1058},
mesh = {Humans ; *Advanced Practice Nursing/education ; Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/nursing ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {AIM: To discuss the need to expand advanced practice nurse education in Sub-Saharan Africa as a strategic response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DESIGN: Discursive paper.

METHOD: Searching international literature in PubMed, CINAHL and Google Scholar databases, we explored the impact of COVID-19 in Sub-Saharan Africa and the advanced practice nurse role and education in the pandemic response.

DISCUSSION: The COVID-19 pandemic served as a barrier to healthcare access and disrupted routine immunizations and care, reduced facility-based healthcare services, increased disease burden and mortality, strain and is expected to worsen the healthcare workforce shortage in Sub-Saharan Africa. The COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasised the necessity to strengthen advanced practice nurse education in Sub-Saharan Africa.

CONCLUSION: This discursive paper underscores the critical role of advanced practice nurse education in Sub-Saharan Africa as a proactive strategy to strengthen the healthcare workforce and systems. The lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the urgency to invest in advanced practice nurse education and training programmes in the region.

There was no patient or public involvement in the design or drafting of this discursive paper. The authors reviewed the literature to develop a discussion about advanced nursing practice.},
}

Humans
*Advanced Practice Nursing/education
Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/nursing
Pandemics

@article {pmid39710315,
year = {2024},
author = {Abdul Jabbar, AB and May, MT and Deisz, M and Tauseef, A},
title = {Trends in heart failure-related mortality among middle-aged adults in the United States from 1999-2022.},
journal = {Current problems in cardiology},
volume = {50},
number = {3},
pages = {102973},
doi = {10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2024.102973},
pmid = {39710315},
issn = {1535-6280},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Heart failure (HF) represents a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality. Heart failure mortality trends among the middle aged have not been fully characterized into the years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to analyze the trends in mortality related to heart failure across various demographic and geographic categories-including gender, race, and census region-spanning from 1999 to 2022, with particular attention paid to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on HF mortality.

METHODS: Heart failure-related mortality data were extracted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) database and stratified into different demographic and geographic groups. Statistically significant trends in mortality over time were identified using Joinpoint regression.

RESULTS: Heart failure mortality decreased among most studied demographic groups from 1999 to 2011-2013, then increased through 2022, often with a marked increase in mortality in the pandemic years of 2020-2022. Males, Black or African Americans, and the South generally had higher mortality rates than their demographic or geographic counterparts. Existing disparities between high-risk groups and others generally worsened during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a decade of heart failure mortality increases, and in some categories worsened existing disparities. This is likely due to reduced access to healthcare during the pandemic, along with a direct increase in mortality from heart failure caused by COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid39710095,
year = {2024},
author = {Crespo-Bellido, M and Headrick, G and López, MÁ and Holcomb, J and Khan, A and Sapkota, S and Hollis-Hansen, K},
title = {A Systematic Review: The Impact of COVID-19 Policy Flexibilities on SNAP and WIC Programmatic Outcomes.},
journal = {Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {100361},
doi = {10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100361},
pmid = {39710095},
issn = {2156-5376},
abstract = {In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency (PHE), the federal government deployed policy flexibilities in food and nutrition assistance programs including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to meet the needs those experiencing economic hardship. Emergent literature evaluates the impact of these flexibilities on program outcomes. The objective of this study was to explore the impact of policy flexibilities deployed during the COVID-19 PHE on access, enrollment/retention, benefit utilization, and perceptions of SNAP and WIC. Keyword searches were performed in November 2023, February 2024, and August 2024. The search included peer-reviewed literature from 2020 to 2024, following Johanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, resulting in 37 eligible articles. Twelve studies evaluated policy flexibilities in SNAP only, 21 in WIC only, and 4 in both programs. Across these, 12 studies explored program access, 7 enrollment/retention, 13 benefit utilization, and 15 program perceptions. JBI critical appraisal tools were used to assess risk of bias. The reviewed articles show that although SNAP and WIC participants identified challenges to access, there were increases in enrollment/retention due to policy flexibilities enabling remote services and reducing administrative burden in both programs. Benefit increases led to greater purchase of preferred foods in SNAP and greater access to fruit and vegetables in WIC. Overall, participants were satisfied with the flexibilities and reported most were beneficial for their households. Some implementation challenges were identified by participants and staff. A few studies showed potential risks of bias, including selection bias and confounding bias. COVID-19-related policy flexibilities in SNAP and WIC demonstrated significant improvements in selected program outcomes; however, challenges communicating policy flexibilities to authorized vendors and participants created difficulties to benefiting from the flexibilities. Findings from the evaluations of these flexibilities can inform future program enhancements and long-term regulatory changes. This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023493302).},
}

@article {pmid39709573,
year = {2024},
author = {Mészner, Z and Lakatos, B and Ludwig, E},
title = {[Prevention of Streptococcus pneumoniae infections in adults].},
journal = {Orvosi hetilap},
volume = {165},
number = {51},
pages = {2008-2014},
doi = {10.1556/650.2024.33200},
pmid = {39709573},
issn = {1788-6120},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pneumococcal Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Adult ; Hungary/epidemiology ; *Streptococcus pneumoniae/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccines, Conjugate/administration & dosage ; Vaccination ; },
}

Humans
*Pneumococcal Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage
Adult
Hungary/epidemiology
*Streptococcus pneumoniae/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccines, Conjugate/administration & dosage
Vaccination

@article {pmid39709377,
year = {2024},
author = {Kangbai, JB and Sesay, U and Kangbai, DM and Kagbanda, FK},
title = {Public health system in post-pandemic Sierra Leone: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {1453},
pmid = {39709377},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Sierra Leone/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Humans ; *Public Health ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Delivery of Health Care ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the outbreak of the novel SARS-CoV-2 that caused COVID-19 in 2019, the government of Sierra Leone implemented immediate preventive measures to stop the disease from entering the country. On March 24, 2020, the country declared a state of emergency in response to the emerging global COVID-19 pandemic, even though no confirmed cases had been reported at that time. However, Sierra Leone recorded its first COVID-19 case later in March 2020. While there have been few scoping reviews to date, these primarily focuses on experiences from Western countries or expatriates. The main purpose of this scoping review is to document the various COVID-19 pandemic preparedness measures undertaken by the Sierra Leone health system, assess the impacts of the pandemic on health systems, and document the various responses of health systems implemented across different settings from a home-based perspective.

METHODS: We searched peer-reviewed papers and articles under review or submitted for publication in Sierra Leone and the COVID-19 pandemic found in the Web of Science, Scopus, Pubmed, Google Scholar, MedRxiv, and Research Square databases. In addition, we examined gray literature, including Sierra Leone government reports and academic unpublished works on Sierra Leone's COVID-19 situation. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were analyzed, focusing on the Sierra Leone health system or on the essential health services provided by the Sierra Leone health system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: Few (48.7%) studies were multi-country studies (i.e., involving different countries and Sierra Leone). The majority (83.7%) were original articles published either in peer-reviewed journals or were deposited in preprint repositories; 10.9% were editorials, commentaries, or news reports; 1 (2.7%) was a working paper; and 1 (2.7%) was personal correspondence.

CONCLUSION: Sierra Leone's health system was partially prepared for the COVID-19 pandemic, largely due to its previous experience in managing the Ebola virus disease outbreaks from 2013 to 2016. However, the pandemic had significant impact on other health services. Although the country's response to the pandemic was swift, it fell below average in addressing the scale of the challenges posed by the crisis.},
}

Sierra Leone/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Humans
*Public Health
*SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Delivery of Health Care

@article {pmid39709282,
year = {2024},
author = {Shaw, D and Torreblanca, RA and Amin-Chowdhury, Z and Bautista, A and Bennett, D and Broughton, K and Casanova, C and Choi, EH and Claus, H and Corcoran, M and Cottrell, S and Cunney, R and Cuypers, L and Dalby, T and Davies, H and de Gouveia, L and Deghmane, AE and Desmet, S and Domenech, M and Drew, R and Plessis, MD and Duarte, C and Fuursted, K and Golden, A and Almeida, SCG and Henares, D and Henriques-Normark, B and Hilty, M and Hoffmann, S and Humphreys, H and Jacobsson, S and Johnson, C and Jolley, KA and Kawabata, A and Kozakova, J and Kristinsson, KG and Krizova, P and Kuch, A and Ladhani, S and Lâm, TT and Ayala, MEL and Lindholm, L and Litt, D and Maiden, MCJ and Martin, I and Martiny, D and Mattheus, W and McCarthy, ND and Meehan, M and Meiring, S and Mölling, P and Morfeldt, E and Morgan, J and Mulhall, R and Muñoz-Almagro, C and Murdoch, D and Musilek, M and Novakova, L and Oftadeh, S and Perez-Arguello, A and Pérez-Vázquez, MD and Perrin, M and Prevost, B and Roberts, M and Rokney, A and Ron, M and Sanabria, OM and Scott, KJ and Sempere, J and Siira, L and de Lemos, APS and Sintchenko, V and Skoczyńska, A and Slotved, HC and Smith, AJ and Taha, MK and Toropainen, M and Tzanakaki, G and Vainio, A and van der Linden, MPG and van Sorge, NM and Varon, E and Moreno, JV and Vohrnova, S and von Gottberg, A and Yuste, J and Brueggemann, AB},
title = {The importance of microbiology reference laboratories and adequate funding for infectious disease surveillance.},
journal = {The Lancet. Digital health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S2589-7500(24)00241-3},
pmid = {39709282},
issn = {2589-7500},
abstract = {Microbiology reference laboratories perform a crucial role within public health systems. This role was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this Viewpoint, we emphasise the importance of microbiology reference laboratories and highlight the types of digital data and expertise they provide, which benefit national and international public health. We also highlight the value of surveillance initiatives among collaborative international partners, who work together to share, analyse, and interpret data, and then disseminate their findings in a timely manner. Microbiology reference laboratories have substantial impact at regional, national, and international levels, and sustained support for these laboratories is essential for public health in both pandemic and non-pandemic times.},
}

@article {pmid39709281,
year = {2024},
author = {Cuartero, CT and Carnegie, AC and Cucunuba, ZM and Cori, A and Hollis, SM and Van Gaalen, RD and Baidjoe, AY and Spina, AF and Lees, JA and Cauchemez, S and Santos, M and Umaña, JD and Chen, C and Gruson, H and Gupte, P and Tsui, J and Shah, AA and Millan, GG and Quevedo, DS and Batra, N and Torneri, A and Kucharski, AJ},
title = {From the 100 Day Mission to 100 lines of software development: how to improve early outbreak analytics.},
journal = {The Lancet. Digital health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S2589-7500(24)00218-8},
pmid = {39709281},
issn = {2589-7500},
abstract = {Since the COVID-19 pandemic, considerable advances have been made to improve epidemic preparedness by accelerating diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine development. However, we argue that it is crucial to make equivalent efforts in the field of outbreak analytics to help ensure reliable, evidence-based decision making. To explore the challenges and key priorities in the field of outbreak analytics, the Epiverse-TRACE initiative brought together a multidisciplinary group of experts, including field epidemiologists, data scientists, academics, and software engineers from public health institutions across multiple countries. During a 3-day workshop, 40 participants discussed what the first 100 lines of code written during an outbreak should look like. The main findings from this workshop are summarised in this Viewpoint. We provide an overview of the current outbreak analytic landscape by highlighting current key challenges that should be addressed to improve the response to future public health crises. Furthermore, we propose actionable solutions to these challenges that are achievable in the short term, and longer-term strategic recommendations. This Viewpoint constitutes a call to action for experts involved in epidemic response to develop modern and robust data analytic approaches at the heart of epidemic preparedness and response.},
}

@article {pmid39708404,
year = {2024},
author = {Martín-Fernández, M and González-Luis, H and Hernández-Leal, MJ and Arias-Colinas, M},
title = {Nurses communication competencies in social media: A bibliometric review.},
journal = {Nurse education today},
volume = {146},
number = {},
pages = {106542},
doi = {10.1016/j.nedt.2024.106542},
pmid = {39708404},
issn = {1532-2793},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To analyse the characteristics of articles published on the competencies, abilities, knowledge and education that nurses should have to be able to communicate, inform, disseminate and/or be an informative source in mass media and social media.

DESIGN: This bibliometric study involved a comprehensive search of two databases, PubMed and Scopus. The search terms included 'nursing', 'communication', and 'mass media', along with their synonyms. Article selection was performed through screening titles and abstracts, with any uncertainties resolved through discussions among the researchers.

DATA SOURCES: The data were sourced from PubMed and Scopus, selected for their extensive coverage of academic literature related to nursing and communication.

METHODS: A total of 1,290 articles were initially identified. After screening, 463 articles were analysed. The study employed bibliometric analysis to evaluate publication trends, authorship patterns, and thematic focus. Key metrics such as annual publication growth rate, co-authorship, and thematic prevalence were assessed.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The analysis revealed that the articles were published from 1,971 onwards, with an annual production growth rate of 6.83%. The total number of authors was 1,645, with an average co-authorship of 3 to 4 researchers per article. The most frequently discussed themes included Social Media, COVID-19, and Nurses. Notable authors included Booth R. (5 articles), Borycki E. (4 articles), and Jackson D. (4 articles). The most prominent journal was Nurse Education Today (20 articles), with the highest publication output from the United States (695 articles), followed by Australia (436 articles). Leading institutions included King Saud University (47 articles) and the University of Tripoli (37 articles).

CONCLUSION: This bibliometric review provides valuable insights for researchers, educators, and managers interested in the evolving role of nursing in traditional and social media. It highlights key researchers, influential journals, significant authors, and prominent countries in this field, offering a foundational understanding for further research and development in nursing communication competencies.},
}

@article {pmid39707914,
year = {2024},
author = {Ghosh, S and Chatterjee, A and Maitra, A},
title = {An insight into COVID-19 host immunity at single-cell resolution.},
journal = {International reviews of immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-16},
doi = {10.1080/08830185.2024.2443420},
pmid = {39707914},
issn = {1563-5244},
abstract = {Host immunity helps the body to fight against COVID-19. Single-cell transcriptomics has provided the scope of investigating cellular and molecular underpinnings of host immune response against SARS-CoV-2 infection at high resolution. In this review, we have systematically described the virus-induced dysregulation of relative abundance as well as molecular behavior of each innate and adaptive immune cell type and cell state during COVID-19 infection and for different vaccinations, based on single-cell studies published in last three-four years. Identification and characterization of these disease-associated specific cell populations might help to design better, efficient, and targeted therapeutic avenues.},
}

@article {pmid39707894,
year = {2024},
author = {Nowakowski, A and Prusaczyk, A and Szenborn, L and Ludwikowska, K and Paradowska-Stankiewicz, I and Machalek, DA and Baay, M and Burdier, FR and Waheed, DE and Vorsters, A},
title = {The HPV prevention and control program in Poland: progress and the way forward.},
journal = {Acta dermatovenerologica Alpina, Pannonica, et Adriatica},
volume = {33},
number = {4},
pages = {189-197},
pmid = {39707894},
issn = {1581-2979},
mesh = {Humans ; Poland ; *Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control ; Female ; *Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/prevention & control/virology ; Adult ; Immunization Programs/organization & administration ; Early Detection of Cancer ; Middle Aged ; Adolescent ; },
abstract = {This review assesses Poland's activities in preventing and managing human papillomavirus (HPV)-related diseases, summarizing information from the 2023 HPV Prevention and Control Board meeting. Progress in primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention identifies opportunities to strengthen control of cervical cancer. Poland's national HPV vaccination program, launched in June 2023, initially achieved suboptimal coverage. In contrast, regional initiatives such as the Wrocław immunization program, which has operated for over a decade, demonstrate highly relevant context-specific best practices, including the use of a "train the trainers" model to effectively share information among stakeholders and mitigate crisis. Improved vaccination rates require not only ease of access to vaccines, as the COVID-19 vaccination program has demonstrated, but also addressing parental concerns about vaccine safety and effectiveness. Moreover, innovative strategies-such as integration of adolescent vaccination with cervical screening among women 30 to 45 years old-may have the potential to increase uptake and accelerate elimination in the country. For secondary prevention, Poland is well placed to switch to HPV-based screening, having a centralized registry, validated tests, and standardized colposcopy. The results of a study of the "HPV testing In Polish POpulation" (HIPPO) cervical cancer screening program confirm the superiority of HPV testing over cytology; however, current opportunistic screening poses challenges concerning completeness and equity in data. Expanding organized screening programs and midwife-led services will increase access and help build confidence in public-sector health systems. Tertiary prevention is in line with updated European guidelines. In early-stage cervical cancer, there has been an increase in the use of less invasive surgical approaches, and immunotherapies, such as pembrolizumab, hold promise in locally advanced disease. Initial data suggest that HPV vaccination may help reduce the incidence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or higher (CIN2+) after excisional treatments, but more data are needed. Poland's coordinated approach shows significant improvements while also highlighting the need for continued innovation, quality control, and public engagement to improve the prevention and treatment of HPV-related conditions.},
}

Humans
Poland
*Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control
Female
*Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/prevention & control/virology
Adult
Immunization Programs/organization & administration
Early Detection of Cancer
Middle Aged
Adolescent

@article {pmid39707400,
year = {2024},
author = {Yip, JQ and Oo, A and Ng, YL and Chin, KL and Tan, KK and Chu, JJH and AbuBakar, S and Zainal, N},
title = {The role of inflammatory gene polymorphisms in severe COVID-19: a review.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {327},
pmid = {39707400},
issn = {1743-422X},
support = {MOSTI004-2021SRF//Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi/ ; MOSTI004-2021SRF//Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi/ ; MOSTI004-2021SRF//Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi/ ; MOSTI004-2021SRF//Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/genetics/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology ; *Polymorphism, Genetic ; *Inflammation/genetics ; *Cytokines/genetics ; Severity of Illness Index ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Signal Transduction ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has profoundly impacted global healthcare systems and spurred extensive research efforts over the past three years. One critical aspect of the disease is the intricate interplay between the virus and the host immune response, particularly the role of inflammatory gene expression in severe COVID-19. While numerous previous studies have explored the role of genetic polymorphisms in COVID-19, research specifically focusing on inflammatory genes and their associations with disease severity remains limited. This review explores the relationship between severe COVID-19 outcomes and genetic polymorphisms within key inflammatory genes. By investigating the impact of genetic variations on immune responses, which include cytokine production and downstream signalling pathways, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of how genetic polymorphisms contribute to the variability in disease presentation. Through an in-depth analysis of existing literature, we shed light on potential therapeutic targets and personalized approaches that may enhance our understanding of disease pathogenesis and treatment strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/genetics/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology
*Polymorphism, Genetic
*Inflammation/genetics
*Cytokines/genetics
Severity of Illness Index
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Signal Transduction

@article {pmid39706651,
year = {2025},
author = {Yerramilli, P and Andrews, K and Sharma, J and Chopra, M},
title = {Essential shifts in health workforce measurement: a human-centred approach.},
journal = {The Lancet. Global health},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {e167-e171},
doi = {10.1016/S2214-109X(24)00422-4},
pmid = {39706651},
issn = {2214-109X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Job Satisfaction ; *Health Workforce ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; Workload ; },
abstract = {The health sector has faced long-standing challenges in drivers of worker behaviours and performance, such as job satisfaction, which have been worsened by COVID-19. Structural issues including high workloads and poor working conditions have long contributed to dissatisfaction among health workers. The pandemic escalated unsafe working conditions, causing workers' deaths, increasing burnout rates, and contributing to exodus from health-care jobs. To begin to address these challenges, systematising a human-centred approach to health workforce measurement, which emphasises the drivers of worker behaviour, is crucial. This approach requires a critical re-examination of historical metrics including those on absenteeism, caseload, and competence, which primarily characterise health workers as inputs into the health system. Transition should be made towards more human-centred measures of absence, workload, competency, and job satisfaction. The revision of the World Bank's Service Delivery Indicators health survey, a large-scale facility-based survey that provides within-country and cross-country information on health systems quality, showcases how revisiting widely used metrics through a human-centred lens is needed to yield more fit-for-purpose policy insights that identify health worker wellbeing as key to achieving global health goals.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Job Satisfaction
*Health Workforce
*Health Personnel/psychology
Workload

@article {pmid39705867,
year = {2024},
author = {Levintow, SN and Remch, M and Jones, EP and Lessler, J and Edwards, JK and Brinkley-Rubinstein, L and Rice, DK and Rosen, DL and Powers, KA},
title = {Transmission models of respiratory infections in carceral settings: A systematic review.},
journal = {Epidemics},
volume = {50},
number = {},
pages = {100809},
doi = {10.1016/j.epidem.2024.100809},
pmid = {39705867},
issn = {1878-0067},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks in carceral settings face unique challenges. Transmission modeling is a powerful tool for understanding and addressing these challenges, but reviews of modeling work in this context pre-date the proliferation of outbreaks in jails and prisons during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. We conducted a systematic review of studies using transmission models of respiratory infections in carceral settings before and during the pandemic.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycInfo to identify studies published between 1970 and 2024 that modeled transmission of respiratory infectious diseases in carceral settings. We extracted information on the diseases, populations, and settings modeled; approaches used for parameterizing models and simulating transmission; outcomes of interest and techniques for model calibration, validation, and sensitivity analyses; and types, impacts, and ethical aspects of modeled interventions.

RESULTS: Forty-six studies met eligibility criteria, with transmission dynamics of tuberculosis modeled in 24 (52 %), SARS-CoV-2 in 20 (43 %), influenza in one (2 %), and varicella-zoster virus in one (2 %). Carceral facilities in the United States were the most common focus (15, 33 %), followed by Brazil (8, 17 %). Most studies (36, 80 %) used compartmental models (vs. individual- or agent-based). Tuberculosis studies typically modeled transmission within a single facility, while most SARS-CoV-2 studies simulated transmission in multiple places, including between carceral and community settings. Half of studies fit models to epidemiological data; three validated model predictions. Models were used to estimate past or potential future intervention impacts in 32 (70 %) studies, forecast the status quo (without changing conditions) in six (13 %), and examine only theoretical aspects of transmission in eight (17 %). Interventions commonly involved testing and treatment, quarantine and isolation, and/or facility ventilation. Modeled interventions substantially reduced transmission, but some were not well-defined or did not consider ethical issues.

CONCLUSION: The pandemic prompted urgent attention to transmission dynamics in jails and prisons, but there has been little modeling of respiratory infections other than SARS-CoV-2 and tuberculosis. Increased attention to calibration, validation, and the practical and ethical aspects of intervention implementation could improve translation of model estimates into tangible benefits for the highly vulnerable populations in carceral settings.},
}

@article {pmid39705164,
year = {2024},
author = {Case, JB and Jain, S and Suthar, MS and Diamond, MS},
title = {SARS-CoV-2: The Interplay Between Evolution and Host Immunity.},
journal = {Annual review of immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-immunol-083122-043054},
pmid = {39705164},
issn = {1545-3278},
abstract = {The persistence of SARS-CoV-2 infections at a global level reflects the repeated emergence of variant strains encoding unique constellations of mutations. These variants have been generated principally because of a dynamic host immune landscape, the countermeasures deployed to combat disease, and selection for enhanced infection of the upper airway and respiratory transmission. The resulting viral diversity creates a challenge for vaccination efforts to maintain efficacy, especially regarding humoral aspects of protection. Here, we review our understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 has evolved during the pandemic, the immune mechanisms that confer protection, and the impact viral evolution has had on transmissibility and adaptive immunity elicited by natural infection and/or vaccination. Evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 evolution initially selected variants with increased transmissibility but currently is driven by immune escape. The virus likely will continue to drift to maintain fitness until countermeasures capable of disrupting transmission cycles become widely available.},
}

@article {pmid39705075,
year = {2024},
author = {Wallraf, S and Dierks, ML and John, C and Lander, J},
title = {Patient Organizations' Digital Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {e58566},
pmid = {39705075},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; Telemedicine ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patient organizations (POs) play a crucial role in supporting individuals with health conditions. Their activities range from counseling to support groups to advocacy. The COVID-19 pandemic and its related public health measures prompted rapid digital transformation efforts across multiple sectors, including health care.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore how POs digitally responded to pandemic-related circumstances, focusing on aspects such as the technologies used, positive outcomes, and challenges encountered.

METHODS: This scoping review followed the methodological guidance of the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) Scoping Review Methodology Group and adhered to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) reporting guidelines. A systematic search of PubMed, the Web of Science Core Collection, and the WHO (World Health Organization) COVID-19 database, supplemented by a citation search approach, was conducted. The initial search was performed on November 10, 2022, and updated on November 8, 2023. Publications were eligible if they were published after November 30, 2019, and addressed pandemic-related digitalization efforts of POs, defined as nonprofit organizations with a focus on health-related support. A 2-step screening process was used to identify relevant literature. Data were extracted using a standardized table to capture aspects such as digital adaptation activities (eg, types of technologies implemented, positive outcomes, challenges, and facilitating factors) and coded inductively to identify similarities across included publications, and the findings were synthesized narratively.

RESULTS: The search and its subsequent update yielded 2212 records, with 13 articles included in this review. These articles revealed a range of PO services that were digitally adapted during the pandemic, with videoconferencing software emerging as the most commonly used tool (n=9 articles). The digital adaptation of group-based support activities was the most frequently reported transformation (n=9). Other adaptations included the digitalization of counseling services (n=3) and the delivery of information and education (n=3), including educational workshops, weekly webinars, and the dissemination of information through digital newsletters. While the use of digital formats, particularly for POs' group activities, often increased accessibility by breaking down preexisting barriers (n=5), they also created new barriers for certain groups, such as those lacking digital skills or resources (n=4). Some participants experienced a loss of interpersonal aspects, like a sense of community (n=3). However, further findings suggest that the digital delivery of such group activities preserved essential interpersonal aspects (n=7) and a preference among some participants to continue digital group activities (n=4), suggesting the potential for sustainability of such options post the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: The rapid digitalization efforts of POs demonstrate their adaptability and the potential of digital technologies to improve support services, despite some challenges. Future digitalization strategies should focus, among other things, on promoting digital literacy to ensure the accessibility and inclusiveness of digital services.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: OSF Registries, https://osf.io/anvf4.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Pandemics
Telemedicine
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39704836,
year = {2024},
author = {Oliveira, MC and Silva, DFB and de Oliveira Andrade, A and Pita de Melo, D and de Sousa, YAB and da Silva, LOP and de Castro Gomes, DQ},
title = {Effect of modified intravascular laser irradiation of blood in the oral and systemic conditions during dental treatment-A systematic review.},
journal = {Lasers in medical science},
volume = {39},
number = {1},
pages = {300},
pmid = {39704836},
issn = {1435-604X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Dental Care/methods ; Adult ; Child ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/radiotherapy/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Periodontitis/radiotherapy/therapy ; Low-Level Light Therapy/methods ; },
abstract = {The aim of this study was to investigate the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of modified-ILIB (intravascular laser irradiation of blood) in the control of systemic conditions and/or oral changes during dental care. This systematic literature review study aimed to answer the question, "Is modified-ILIB an effective adjuvant therapy in the control of systemic conditions and/or oral changes in children and adults during dental treatment?". The protocol for this systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database under number CRD42023493800. The search was carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS, SCOPUS and EMBASE databases on June 10, 2024. Google Scholar was used as a search source for gray literature. Randomized clinical trials were included, without restrictions on language or year of publication. The RoB 2.0 tool was used to assess the risk of bias and GRADE was used to check the quality of the evidence. A total of 750 articles were retrieved and five studies were selected for this review. All studies were in English and were carried out in Brazil. The outcomes were periodontal parameters and glycemic control in patients with periodontitis and type II diabetes, anxiety control in pediatric dentistry, postoperative pain after third molar extraction and improving taste in post-COVID-19 patients. The majority of studies had a low risk of bias, while only one study was considered to have some concerns. The quality of evidence from the studies was considered very low. The current evidence does not overwhelmingly support the effectiveness of modified-ILIB in controlling oral and/or systemic conditions in dentistry.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Dental Care/methods
Adult
Child
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/radiotherapy/blood
SARS-CoV-2
Periodontitis/radiotherapy/therapy
Low-Level Light Therapy/methods

@article {pmid39703643,
year = {2024},
author = {Ahmadabad, AD and Hosseini Shokouh, SM and Mehdizadeh, P and Meskarpour Amiri, M},
title = {Out-of-pocket expenditures in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of education and health promotion},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {404},
pmid = {39703643},
issn = {2277-9531},
abstract = {The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to substantial out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditures for households during treatment. This study aimed to investigate the OOP expenditures among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Articles were retrieved from the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar in the period of 2019-2022 and evaluated for quality using the STROBE guidelines. Homogeneity was assessed using the I2 index, and publication bias was examined using a funnel plot. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16. Results of the study have shown that a total of nine articles were included in the meta-analysis. The average OOP expenditure for hospitalized COVID-19 patients was found to be US $308.25 (95% CI: 4.17-620.67). The highest OOP expenditure was reported by CHAU (2021) (US $3171.28), followed by GRAG (2022) (US $1582.38), and the lowest by KOTWANI (2021) (US $56.35). According to the results obtained Significant inequality was observed in the OOP expenditures across different countries. Consistent policy recommendations should be made in international forums to reduce these costs in future pandemics for patients in both developed and developing nations.},
}

@article {pmid39703612,
year = {2024},
author = {Mathew, J and Nugent, K},
title = {Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infections: Exercise Limitation and Rehabilitation.},
journal = {The Yale journal of biology and medicine},
volume = {97},
number = {4},
pages = {463-472},
pmid = {39703612},
issn = {1551-4056},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Exercise/physiology ; Exercise Tolerance/physiology ; Exercise Therapy/methods ; },
abstract = {Patients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infections can develop chronic symptoms; this clinical presentation has been called post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, post-COVID condition, and long COVID. It can develop in both outpatient cases and in hospital cases; the frequency depends on the severity of infection and comorbidity. Many of these patients have exercise limitation when tested using cardiopulmonary exercise tests. The potential explanations for reduced exercise capacity include cardiac limitations, respiratory limitations, skeletal muscle weakness, deconditioning, and limiting symptoms out of proportion to any measured physiological limitation, and many patients have more than one explanation for the exercise limitation. Since these patients may have required prolonged hospitalization, deconditioning has been considered a potential explanation for their post-hospitalization limitations. Patients with deconditioning have a low oxygen uptake per minute (VO2) maximum with no obvious cardiac or respiratory limitation, but some do have measurable muscle weakness. One complex study reported that these patients had a high proportion of high-fatigable glycolytic fibers, reduced mitochondrial function, atrophic fibers, and focal necrosis in skeletal muscle. Some post-COVID patients have chronic fatigue and post-exertional malaise and meet the clinical criteria for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Most patients with post-COVID syndrome do improve with conventional cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. However, patients with post-exertional malaise need special attention to their exercise programs and careful monitoring for adverse effects. In summary, patients with long COVID can have complex presentations with a broad range of symptoms and several possible exercise limitations. Their rehabilitation program should be based on their physical capacity and their symptom profile.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*SARS-CoV-2
Exercise/physiology
Exercise Tolerance/physiology
Exercise Therapy/methods

@article {pmid39703609,
year = {2024},
author = {Nyarko, JA and Dogbe, PM and Ativi, LAE and Wutsika, J and Agyenim, EB and Awere-Duodu, A and Botaeng, AT and Ntim, NAA},
title = {Pathological Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2: A Review for Clinicians.},
journal = {The Yale journal of biology and medicine},
volume = {97},
number = {4},
pages = {431-445},
pmid = {39703609},
issn = {1551-4056},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Acute Kidney Injury/virology/metabolism/etiology ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/virology/complications/pathology ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/virology/pathology/complications/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, driven by the novel coronavirus and its variants, has caused over 518 million infections and 6.25 million deaths globally, leading to a significant health crisis. Beyond its primary respiratory impact, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been implicated in various extra-pulmonary complications. Research studies reveal that the virus affects multiple organs, including the kidneys, liver, pancreas, and central nervous system (CNS), largely due to the widespread expression of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors. Clinical evidence shows that the virus can induce diabetes by disrupting pancreatic and liver functions as well as cause acute kidney injury. Additionally, neurological complications, including cognitive impairments and neuroinflammation, have been observed in a significant number of COVID-19 patients. This review discusses the mechanisms linking SARS-CoV-2 to acute kidney injury, Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM and T2DM), emphasizing its effects on pancreatic beta cells, insulin resistance, and the regulation of gluconeogenesis. We also explore how SARS-CoV-2 induces neurological complications, detailing the intricate pathways of neuro-invasion and the potential to trigger conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). By elucidating the metabolic and neurological manifestations of COVID-19 and the underlying pathogenic mechanisms, this review underscores the imperative for continued research and the development of effective therapeutic interventions to mitigate the long-term and short-term impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/virology/complications
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Acute Kidney Injury/virology/metabolism/etiology
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/virology/complications/pathology
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/virology/pathology/complications/metabolism

@article {pmid39703608,
year = {2024},
author = {Zollner, A and Meyer, M and Jukic, A and Adolph, T and Tilg, H},
title = {The Intestine in Acute and Long COVID: Pathophysiological Insights and Key Lessons.},
journal = {The Yale journal of biology and medicine},
volume = {97},
number = {4},
pages = {447-462},
pmid = {39703608},
issn = {1551-4056},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/virology/immunology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Brain-Gut Axis/physiology ; Intestines/virology/physiopathology/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), commonly known as Long COVID, represents a significant and complex health challenge with a wide range of symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. This review examines the emerging evidence suggesting a critical role of the gut and gut-brain axis in the pathophysiology of Long COVID. It explores how changes in the gut microbiome, disruption of gut barrier integrity, and the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens within the gastrointestinal tract may contribute to the prolonged and varied symptoms seen in Long COVID, including chronic inflammation and neuropsychiatric disturbances. The review also summarizes key insights gained about Long COVID, highlighting its multifactorial nature, which involves immune dysregulation, microvascular damage, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, with the gut playing a central role in these processes. While progress has been made in understanding these mechanisms, current evidence remains inconclusive. The challenges of establishing causality, standardizing research methodologies, and addressing individual variations in the microbiome are discussed, emphasizing the need for further longitudinal studies and more comprehensive approaches to enhance our understanding of these complex interactions. This review underscores the importance of personalized approaches in developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for Long COVID, while also acknowledging the significant gaps in our current understanding. Future research should aim to further unravel the complex interplay between the gut and Long COVID, ultimately improving outcomes for those affected by this condition.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/virology/immunology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*SARS-CoV-2
Brain-Gut Axis/physiology
Intestines/virology/physiopathology/microbiology

@article {pmid39702706,
year = {2025},
author = {Wei, HY and Fan, XJ and Mao, MW},
title = {A Review on Circular RNA Translation and Its Implications in Disease.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2883},
number = {},
pages = {109-137},
pmid = {39702706},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {*RNA, Circular/genetics ; Humans ; *COVID-19/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *Protein Biosynthesis ; RNA, Messenger/genetics/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The mRNA vaccine has emerged as a powerful tool against viral infection during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In the post-COVID-19 era, the applications of mRNA-based therapy continue to expand and evolve. Circular RNA (circRNA), long assumed to be a noncoding RNA, has been proven to be translatable and subsequently developed as a next-generation mRNA modality due to its higher stability and wider therapeutic window. Nonetheless, the studies of circRNA translation and its application in diseases still present numerous technical features and challenges. In this chapter, we provide a summary and discussion on the mechanisms of circRNA translation and its applications in medicine development, aiming to serve as a reference and inspiration for readers interested in circRNA-based therapy.},
}

*RNA, Circular/genetics
Humans
*COVID-19/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*Protein Biosynthesis
RNA, Messenger/genetics/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid39701478,
year = {2024},
author = {Majidpour, M and Azizi, SG and Davodabadi, F and Sabeti Akbar-Abad, M and Abdollahi, Z and Sargazi, S and Shahriari, H},
title = {Recent advances in TGF-β signaling pathway in COVID-19 pathogenesis: A review.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {199},
number = {},
pages = {107236},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2024.107236},
pmid = {39701478},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in approximately 7.0 million fatalities between 2019 and 2022, underscoring a pressing need for comprehensive research into its underlying mechanisms and therapeutic avenues. A distinctive feature of severe COVID-19 is the dysregulated immune response characterized by excessive activation of immune cells and the consequent cytokine storms. Recent advancements in our understanding of cellular signaling pathways have illuminated the role of Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) as a pivotal signaling molecule with significant implications for the pathogenesis of infectious diseases, including COVID-19. Emerging evidence reveals that TGF-β signaling, when activated by viral components or secondary pathways, adversely affects diverse cell types, particularly immune cells, and lung tissue, leading to complications such as pulmonary fibrosis. In our review article, we critically evaluate recent literature on the involvement of TGF-β signaling in the progression of COVID-19. We discuss a range of pharmacological interventions, including nintedanib, pirfenidone, corticosteroids, proton pump inhibitors, and histone deacetylase inhibitors, and their potential to modulate the TGF-β pathway in the context of COVID-19 treatment. Additionally, we explore ongoing clinical trials involving mesenchymal stem cells, low-dose radiation therapy, and artemisinin derivatives to assess their impact on TGF-β levels and subsequent clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients. This review is particularly relevant at this juncture as the global health community continues to grapple with the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at TGF-β modulation to mitigate disease severity and improve patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid39701050,
year = {2024},
author = {Tsuchiya, H and Mizogami, M},
title = {Characteristics of Oral Adverse Effects following COVID-19 Vaccination and Similarities with Oral Symptoms in COVID-19 Patients: Taste and Saliva Secretory Disorders.},
journal = {Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-33},
doi = {10.1159/000543182},
pmid = {39701050},
issn = {1423-0151},
abstract = {Although COVID-19 vaccines exhibit diverse side effects, taste and saliva secretory disorders have remained poorly understood despite their negative impact on the overall quality of life. The present study aimed to characterize oral adverse effects following COVID-19 vaccination and assess their similarities with oral symptoms in COVID-19 patients. A literature search was conducted in databases, including PubMed, LitCovid, and Google Scholar, to retrieve relevant studies. The narrative review indicated that a certain number of vaccinated people develop ageusia, dysgeusia, hypogeusia, xerostomia, and dry mouth, while they are rare compared with COVID-19 oral symptoms. The prevalence of oral adverse effects varies by country/region and such geographical differences may be related to the type of vaccine used. Similar to SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19 vaccination adversely affects taste perception and salivary secretion in females and older subjects more frequently than in males and younger subjects. Their impairments mostly appear withing three days after vaccination, and bitter taste is specifically impaired in some cases. Considering that oral adverse effects following COVID-19 vaccination share some characteristics with oral symptoms in COVID-19 patients, it is speculated that the spike protein derived from COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 infection may be pathophysiologically responsible for taste and saliva secretory disorders. This is because such spike protein has the potential to interact with ACE2 expressed on the relevant cells, produce proinflammatory cytokines, and form antiphospholipid antibodies. Our results do not deny the advantage of COVID-19 vaccination, but attention should be paid to post-vaccination oral effects in addition to COVID-19 oral symptoms.},
}

@article {pmid39700896,
year = {2024},
author = {Kanzi, AM and Smith, SI and Msefula, C and Mwaba, J and Ajayi, A and Kwenda, G and Tanui, CK and Smith, AM and Bester, LA and Derra, FA and Yamba, K and Banda, DL and Kalule, JB and Kumburu, HH and Fakim, YJ and Sithole, N and Njage, PMK and Chikuse, FF and Ondoa, P and Tessema, SK and Foster-Nyarko, E},
title = {Expediting pathogen genomics adoption for enhanced foodborne disease surveillance in Africa.},
journal = {EBioMedicine},
volume = {111},
number = {},
pages = {105500},
doi = {10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105500},
pmid = {39700896},
issn = {2352-3964},
abstract = {The role of genomics in public health surveillance has been accentuated by its crucial contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its potential in addressing global disease outbreaks. While Africa has made strides in expanding multi-pathogen genomic surveillance, the integration into foodborne disease (FBD) surveillance remains nascent. Here we highlight the critical components to strengthen and scale-up the integration of whole genome sequencing (WGS) in foodborne disease surveillance across the continent. We discuss priority use-cases for FBD, and strategies for the implementation. We also highlight the major challenges such as data management, policy and regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagement, the need for multidisciplinary collaborations and the importance of robust monitoring and evaluation, aiming to bolster Africa's preparedness and response to future health threats.},
}

@article {pmid39700839,
year = {2024},
author = {Wang, R and Raman, A},
title = {Systematic literature review on the effects of blended learning in nursing education.},
journal = {Nurse education in practice},
volume = {82},
number = {},
pages = {104238},
doi = {10.1016/j.nepr.2024.104238},
pmid = {39700839},
issn = {1873-5223},
abstract = {AIM: The study aimed to comprehensively analyze and evaluate the effects of blended learning in nursing education.

BACKGROUND: Blended learning addresses significant challenges in nursing education by offering flexible and adaptive learning environments that support the development of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Its importance grew post-COVID-19. Although some reviews have synthesized its effects in nursing education, they often focused on a limited scope and studies, leaving gaps in understanding its broader impact.

DESIGN: Systematic literature review.

METHODS: We employed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to search for literature published in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, EMBASE, ERIC, Scopus and Cochrane Library from 2000 to June 26, 2024. Two researchers independently screened each article for eligibility and extracted the data.

RESULTS: This review included 54 studies and found that blended learning positively influenced nursing students in five key areas: academic performance and skill development, learning engagement and motivation, self-management in learning, psychological and emotional well-being, learning experience and satisfaction. These were captured in a visual model showing the comprehensive impact of blended learning. Critical research gaps were identified, including a lack of randomized controlled trials and limited studies on mental health and clinical thinking abilities.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study showed that the effects of blended learning in nursing education were positive and multi-dimensional. Despite some inconsistencies in findings, blended learning was shown to offer significant advantages over traditional learning, though further research is required to address areas of uncertainty.},
}

@article {pmid39700784,
year = {2024},
author = {Roy, K and Saikia, BK and Konwar, R},
title = {Exploring the role of carbon quantum dots as countermeasure for SARS-CoV-2 virus.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {603},
number = {},
pages = {110339},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2024.110339},
pmid = {39700784},
issn = {1096-0341},
abstract = {The world witnessed disturbingly rapid unfolding of COVID-19 pandemic with emergence of SARS-CoV-2 virus resulting in severe morbidity and mortality and it still persists through incessant transmission across the globe even after years. Since the last decade, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have gained much attention due to their favourable aqueous solubility, nano size (<10 nm), inherent fluorescence, biocompatibility, and environment friendliness. In the wider search for effective strategies for treatment, prevention, and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 virus, nanotechnology-based formulation using CQDs have emerged as an interesting option. This article briefly reviews the basic SARS-CoV-2 virology, physicochemical properties, synthesis techniques, and diverse application of CQDs against this virus. Further, latest development and progress of CQD based approaches pertaining to their therapeutic mechanism of action, prevention, and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 virus were comprehensively discussed. We believe that this compilation will invigorate further research for development of CQD based nanomedicines as countermeasure for SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses.},
}

@article {pmid39700731,
year = {2024},
author = {Aziz, HA and Yahya, HDB and Ang, WW and Lau, Y},
title = {Global prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in different trimesters of pregnancy: A meta-analysis and meta-regression.},
journal = {Journal of psychiatric research},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {528-546},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.11.070},
pmid = {39700731},
issn = {1879-1379},
abstract = {The global prevalence of psychological problems in different trimesters is unclear due to methodological constraints in previous reviews. A precise estimate would be a key first step in raising awareness and allocating resources. This review aims to (1) calculate the global prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms during different trimesters and (2) determine the factors influencing their prevalence estimates. A comprehensive search across eight databases was conducted. The meta packages in R software were used to perform meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, and meta-regression analysis. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the study quality, while the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation method was utilized to assess the certainty of the evidence. A total of 88 studies with 61,719 participants across 48 countries were included. The prevalences of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms during all trimesters were 27% (95% CI: 23-31), 37% (95% CI: 31-42), and 26% (95% CI: 9-49), respectively. The second trimester had the highest prevalence of depression (30%) and anxiety (28%) symptoms, whereas the third trimester had the highest prevalence of stress symptoms (52%). A series of subgroup and meta-regression analyses revealed that regions, economic levels of the country, setting, the COVID-19 pandemic, and quality of study were significant factors. Most studies were high quality, but the certainty of the evidence was very low. Findings can contribute as evidence to raising awareness about specific psychological problems during different trimesters. Implementing effective policies and launching targeted interventions can help minimize the prevalence.},
}

@article {pmid39625700,
year = {2024},
author = {Blondeau, JM},
title = {Long COVID: a consequence of chronic post-infectious inflammation!.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {18},
number = {12},
pages = {939-945},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2024.2438104},
pmid = {39625700},
issn = {1747-6356},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *Inflammation/immunology/virology ; Chronic Disease ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Long COVID defines persistence of symptoms in patients that recovered from acute COVID-19 infections. This manuscript is a brief update on current thinking on long COVID and potential causes and consequences.

AREAS COVERED: The extent of long COVID varies between patients with some 200 symptoms described and of different severities. Persistent inflammatory or persistent viral infections or both may be the cause of long COVID but sorting this out will take years.

EXPERT OPINION: Long COVID is an unfortunate consequence of COVID-19 infection and it remains uncertain why some people are afflicted and others not and as with other infectious diseases, it may be both a function of the virus strain, the host or both. Direct organ damage during acute infection versus inflammatory mediated damage over time are important questions to address. The disease outcome and chronic sequelae are likely related to the strains of infectious agent and/or host immunity and genetic predisposition.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*Inflammation/immunology/virology
Chronic Disease
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid39295568,
year = {2025},
author = {Yazici, MM and Yavaşi, Ö},
title = {The development of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS): Worldwide contributions and publication trends.},
journal = {Journal of clinical ultrasound : JCU},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {129-138},
doi = {10.1002/jcu.23846},
pmid = {39295568},
issn = {1097-0096},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ultrasonography/methods/statistics & numerical data ; *Point-of-Care Systems ; *COVID-19/diagnostic imaging ; Artificial Intelligence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Bibliometrics ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) concept is widely used in both emergency medicine (EM) and intensive care medicine (ICM). This study aimed to analyze the scientific articles on POCUS published by statistical methods and to evaluate the subject holistically.

METHODS: This study is bibliographical, descriptive, and analytical in nature. POCUS-related publications published were downloaded from the Web of Science (WoS) database and analyzed using statistical methods. Network visualization maps were used to identify trending topics.

RESULTS: The literature search revealed 5714 publications on POCUS in the WoS database. According to the WoS categorization of publications, the most common categories were emergency medicine (1751; 30.6%). The topics studied in recent years were deep learning, artificial intelligence, COVID-19, acute kidney injury, heart failure, and telemedicine.

CONCLUSION: This study on POCUS, we summarized 5714 publications published. According to our results, the trending topics in POCUS research in recent years include deep learning, artificial intelligence, COVID-19, acute kidney injury, heart failure and telemedicine. Our study can be a valuable resource for clinicians and scientists who are working on POCUS or will be working on POCUS in the future.},
}

Humans
*Ultrasonography/methods/statistics & numerical data
*Point-of-Care Systems
*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging
Artificial Intelligence
SARS-CoV-2
Bibliometrics

@article {pmid37934164,
year = {2024},
author = {Prajapati, AK and Komath, M and N N, S},
title = {Prosthetics and orthotics for persons with movement disabilities in India in the postpandemic milieu.},
journal = {Prosthetics and orthotics international},
volume = {48},
number = {5},
pages = {616-622},
doi = {10.1097/PXR.0000000000000276},
pmid = {37934164},
issn = {1746-1553},
support = {None//None/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; India/epidemiology ; *Disabled Persons/rehabilitation ; Orthotic Devices ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Artificial Limbs ; },
abstract = {The SARS-CoV-2 disease had a severe impact on global socioeconomic growth, and its harmful effects continue with virus mutation. Over the past 3 years, the pandemic has caused isolation, mental trauma, stress, financial losses, and various health complications in individuals. Recent reports have stressed the sufferings of the physically abled population. However, we should not neglect the challenges faced by the disabled population, which were more severe in many ways due to their dependency on others at various levels. The strategies implemented to contain the virus have further aggravated their sufferings and made it even worse because health care priorities were skewed toward public-centered care. As a result, it is difficult to determine the extent of care the disabled population received during the pandemic. Moreover, a single-centered study reports that amputations in India increased by 54.1% compared with those during the prepandemic era. This indicates the need for special attention to the physically disabled community, especially persons with movement disabilities. These individuals are partially dependent and have the potential to make significant contributions to the gross domestic product if included in the human resources pool. The Indian government had launched various initiatives to improve their living status. But delays in policy implementation, reduction in budget allocation, and the ongoing pandemic have derailed the efforts. For these reasons, this article emphasizes several challenges in movement disability care. In addition, it makes recommendations for improving the quality of life of persons with movement disabilities. These include collaboration, creating start-up businesses, applying state-of-the-art logistics, establishing a technological ecosystem, raising public awareness, accessing high-quality care, and using contemporary medical devices.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
India/epidemiology
*Disabled Persons/rehabilitation
Orthotic Devices
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Artificial Limbs

@article {pmid39700723,
year = {2024},
author = {Lingadharini, P and Maji, D},
title = {Eco-sustainable point-of-care devices: Progress in paper and fabric based electrochemical and colorimetric biosensors.},
journal = {Talanta},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {127397},
doi = {10.1016/j.talanta.2024.127397},
pmid = {39700723},
issn = {1873-3573},
abstract = {Monitoring real-time health conditions is a rinsing demand in a pandemic prone era. Wearable Point-of-Care (POC) devices with paper and fabric-based sensors are emerging as simple, low-cost, portable, and disposable analytical tools for development of green POC devices (GPOCDs). Capabilities of passive fluid transportation, compatibility with biochemical analytes, disposability and high degree of tunability using vivid device fabrication strategies enables development of highly sensitive and economically feasible POC sensors in particularly post COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Herein we focus mainly on development of biosensors for testing body fluids in the last 5 years using microfluidic technique through electrochemical and colorimetric principle which forms the two most competing sensing techniques providing quantitative and qualitative assessment modalities respectively and forms almost 80 % of the diagnostic platform worldwide. Present review highlights use of these popular substrates as well as various fabrication strategies for realization of GPOCDs ranging from costly and highly sophisticated photolithography to low cost, non conventional techniques like use of correction ink or marker based devices to even novel pop-up/origami induced patterning techniques. Insights into the advancements in colorimetric technique like distance, count or even text based semi-quantitative read-out modality as a on-hand diagnostic information has also been provided. Finally, future outlooks with other interdisciplinary modalities like use of novel materials, incorporation of digital tools like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and strategies for sensitivity and reliability improvement of future GPOCDs have also been discussed.},
}

@article {pmid39700490,
year = {2024},
author = {Ogundiya, O and Rahman, TJ and Valnarov-Boulter, I and Young, TM},
title = {Looking Back on Digital Medical Education Over the Last 25 Years and Looking to the Future: Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {e60312},
pmid = {39700490},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Education, Distance/trends/methods ; *Education, Medical/trends/methods ; Pandemics ; *Telemedicine/trends ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The last 25 years have seen enormous progression in digital technologies across the whole of the health service, including health education. The rapid evolution and use of web-based and digital techniques have been significantly transforming this field since the beginning of the new millennium. These advancements continue to progress swiftly, even more so after the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review aims to outline and discuss the developments that have taken place in digital medical education across the defined time frame. In addition, evidence for potential opportunities and challenges facing digital medical education in the near future was collated for analysis.

METHODS: Literature reviews were conducted using PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Embase. The participants and learners in this study included medical students, physicians in training or continuing professional development, nurses, paramedics, and patients.

RESULTS: Evidence of the significant steps in the development of digital medical education in the past 25 years was presented and analyzed in terms of application, impact, and implications for the future. The results were grouped into the following themes for discussion: learning management systems; telemedicine (in digital medical education); mobile health; big data analytics; the metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality; the COVID-19 pandemic; artificial intelligence; and ethics and cybersecurity.

CONCLUSIONS: Major changes and developments in digital medical education have occurred from around the start of the new millennium. Key steps in this journey include technical developments in teleconferencing and learning management systems, along with a marked increase in mobile device use for accessing learning over this time. While the pace of evolution in digital medical education accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, further rapid progress has continued since the resolution of the pandemic. Many of these changes are currently being widely used in health education and other fields, such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, providing significant future potential. The opportunities these technologies offer must be balanced against the associated challenges in areas such as cybersecurity, the integrity of web-based assessments, ethics, and issues of digital privacy to ensure that digital medical education continues to thrive in the future.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Education, Distance/trends/methods
*Education, Medical/trends/methods
Pandemics
*Telemedicine/trends

@article {pmid39699237,
year = {2024},
author = {Tanneti, NS and Stillwell, HA and Weiss, SR},
title = {Human coronaviruses: activation and antagonism of innate immune responses.},
journal = {Microbiology and molecular biology reviews : MMBR},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0001623},
doi = {10.1128/mmbr.00016-23},
pmid = {39699237},
issn = {1098-5557},
support = {R01 AI104887/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI140442/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI169537/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {SUMMARYHuman coronaviruses cause a range of respiratory diseases, from the common cold (HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, and SARS-CoV-2) to lethal pneumonia (SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and MERS-CoV). Coronavirus interactions with host innate immune antiviral responses are an important determinant of disease outcome. This review compares the host's innate response to different human coronaviruses. Host antiviral defenses discussed in this review include frontline defenses against respiratory viruses in the nasal epithelium, early sensing of viral infection by innate immune effectors, double-stranded RNA and stress-induced antiviral pathways, and viral antagonism of innate immune responses conferred by conserved coronavirus nonstructural proteins and genus-specific accessory proteins. The common cold coronaviruses HCoV-229E and -NL63 induce robust interferon signaling and related innate immune pathways, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 induce intermediate levels of activation, and MERS-CoV shuts down these pathways almost completely.},
}

@article {pmid39698413,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhang, X and Che, X and Zhang, S and Wang, R and Li, M and Jin, Y and Wang, T and Song, Y},
title = {Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles for human diseases.},
journal = {Extracellular vesicles and circulating nucleic acids},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {64-82},
pmid = {39698413},
issn = {2767-6641},
abstract = {Stem cell therapy is a novel approach for treating various severe and intractable diseases, including autoimmune disorders, organ transplants, tumors, and neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, the extensive utilization of stem cells is constrained by potential tumorigenicity, challenges in precise differentiation, rejection concerns, and ethical considerations. Extracellular vesicles possess the ability to carry diverse bioactive factors from stem cells and deliver them to specific target cells or tissues. Moreover, they offer the advantage of low immunogenicity. Consequently, they have the potential to facilitate the therapeutic potential of stem cells, mitigating the risks associated with direct stem cell application. Therefore, the use of stem cell extracellular vesicles in clinical diseases has received increasing attention. This review summarizes advances in the use of extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). MSC extracellular vesicles are used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, liver injury, COVID-19, and allergies; in the repair of tissue damage in heart disease, kidney injury, and osteoarthritic diseases; as a carrier in the treatment of tumors; and as a regenerative agent in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.},
}

@article {pmid39697632,
year = {2024},
author = {Fanelli, M and Petrone, V and Chirico, R and Radu, CM and Minutolo, A and Matteucci, C},
title = {Flow cytometry for extracellular vesicle characterization in COVID-19 and post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Extracellular vesicles and circulating nucleic acids},
volume = {5},
number = {3},
pages = {417-437},
pmid = {39697632},
issn = {2767-6641},
abstract = {Infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 diseases, can impact different tissues and induce significant cellular alterations. The production of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are physiologically involved in cell communication, is also altered during COVID-19, along with the dysfunction of cytoplasmic organelles. Since circulating EVs reflect the state of their cells of origin, they represent valuable tools for monitoring pathological conditions. Despite challenges in detecting EVs due to their size and specific cellular compartment origin using different methodologies, flow cytometry has proven to be an effective method for assessing the role of EVs in COVID-19. This review summarizes the involvement of plasmatic EVs in COVID-19 patients and individuals with Long COVID (LC) affected by post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), highlighting their dual role in exerting both pro- and antiviral effects. We also emphasize how flow cytometry, with its multiparametric approach, can be employed to characterize circulating EVs, particularly in infectious diseases such as COVID-19, and suggest their potential role in chronic impairments during post-infection.},
}

@article {pmid39697451,
year = {2024},
author = {Velikova, T and Gerasoudis, S and Batselova, H},
title = {Vaccination for solid organ transplanted patients: Recommendations, efficacy, and safety.},
journal = {World journal of transplantation},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {92172},
pmid = {39697451},
issn = {2220-3230},
abstract = {Solid organ transplant recipients face unique challenges in managing their immunosuppressed status, making vaccination a critical consideration. This review aimed to comprehensively analyze current recommendations, evaluate the efficacy of vaccinations in this population, and assess safety concerns. We explored the latest evidence on vaccine types, timing, and potential benefits for transplant patients, highlighting the importance of individualized approaches for routinely used vaccines as well as coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines. By synthesizing available data, this review underscored the pressing need to optimize vaccination strategies, ensuring that transplant recipients can obtain the full protection against many pathogens while minimizing risks associated with their post-transplant immunosuppression.},
}

@article {pmid39697155,
year = {2024},
author = {Boesing, M and Albrich, W and Bridevaux, PO and Charbonnier, F and Clarenbach, C and Fellrath, JM and Gianella, P and Kern, L and Latshang, T and Pavlov, N and Osthoff, M and Steurer-Stey, C and von Garnier, C and Leuppi, JD},
title = {Vaccination in adult patients with chronic lung diseases.},
journal = {Praxis},
volume = {113},
number = {11-12},
pages = {297-305},
doi = {10.23785/PRAXIS.2024.11.003},
pmid = {39697155},
issn = {1661-8157},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Switzerland ; Aged ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Chronic Disease ; Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Adult ; Vaccination ; Lung Diseases ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive ; },
abstract = {In Switzerland, additional vaccinations against influenza, COVID-19, Streptococcus pneumoniae and varicella zoster virus (VZV), are recommended for patients with chronic lung diseases such as COPD, asthma or interstitial lung disease, since infectious diseases often lead to exacerbation of lung diseases resulting in increased disease burden and mortality. In this review we give an overview on recommended vaccinations for patients with chronic lung diseases, also including vaccinations against pertussis and RSV, which are recommended in international guidelines. While continuous development of vaccines against S. pneumoniae has given rise to high-valency vaccines covering up to 68% of S. pneumoniae variants in individuals aged ≥65 years, vaccination rates in this age group remain low in Switzerland (10% in 2020). Vaccination rates are higher for influenza, and particularly high-dose vaccines account for high vaccination efficacy in years of low strain matching in individuals at risk. Although mortality of COVID-19 decreased since the emergence of the first SARS-CoV-2 variant, patients with chronic lung disease are still at increased risk for exacerbation, unless vaccinated with variant-adjusted vaccines. VZV and Bordetella pertussis vaccination has also significantly countered reactivation and infection rates, respectively, and subunit vaccines against VZV show long duration. However, pertussis vaccination is still limited by its fast waning. A glimpse into the future presumes the introduction of new higher-valence vaccinations against S. pneumoniae, and several types of RSV vaccines are expected to enter the Swiss market soon.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Switzerland
Aged
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
Chronic Disease
Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage
Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage
Adult
Vaccination
Lung Diseases
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive

@article {pmid39696533,
year = {2024},
author = {Shang, X and Cao, Y and Guo, Y and Zhang, L and Li, J and Zhang, H and Fan, Y and Huang, Y and Li, J and Wang, Y and Xiong, Y and Cai, Q and Zhang, H and Ma, Y},
title = {Recent advancements in traditional Chinese medicine for COVID-19 with comorbidities across various systems: a scoping review.},
journal = {Infectious diseases of poverty},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {97},
pmid = {39696533},
issn = {2049-9957},
support = {2023YFC3503400//Key Technologies Research and Development Program/ ; CI2021A03703//Scientific and technological innovation project of CACMS/ ; CI2021A00704//Scientific and technological innovation project of CACMS/ ; CI2021B003//Scientific and technological innovation project of CACMS/ ; CI2021A01314//Scientific and technological innovation project of CACMS/ ; 82274350//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023007//Institute of Medicinal Plant Development/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Comorbidity ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment/methods ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has developed a rich theoretical system and practical experience in fighting to infectious diseases over the past thousands of years, and has played an important role in controlling the spread owing to its unique advantages. In particular, its significant contribution to the prevention and control of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is widely recognized. COVID-19 infection is mainly non-severe with a favorable overall outcome, but patients with comorbidities tend to have a poor prognosis. However, a comprehensive review of TCM for preventing and treating COVID-19 with comorbidities across various systems is still lacking. Hence, this scoping review aims to conduct a comprehensive investigation on treatment outcome of TCM for treating COVID-19 with comorbidities across various systems.

METHODS: The scoping review was conducted by searching English databases including PubMed and Web of Science, and Chinese databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang between January 2020 and January 2024. We followed the inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify relevant literature. Information for inclusion in the literature were subsequently extracted and consolidated.

RESULTS: We enrolled 13 literature that met the inclusion criteria in the review finally. Our analysis revealed that research on COVID-19 with comorbidities was mostly focused on circulatory diseases, including hypertension, heart failure, and cerebrovascular diseases, most common comorbidities were hypertension. Followed by endocrine and metabolic diseases such as diabetes, respiratory diseases including pulmonary tuberculosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have been also addressed. However, there were few studies on co-infectious urogenital system disease, and no studies on the rheumatic, immune, hematological, nervous, reproductive, and skin systems diseases. Based on existing studies, TCM has significantly improved the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 with comorbidities such as fever, fatigue, dry cough, anorexia and asthma, the absorption of lung lesions, shortened the duration of viral shedding and the course of disease.

CONCLUSIONS: TCM has great application prospects in treating COVID-19 with comorbidities. These findings could provide important evidence for clinicians to treat COVID-19 with comorbidities. Multi-center studies are required to confirm our results in the future.},
}

Humans
*Comorbidity
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
COVID-19 Drug Treatment/methods
Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39696290,
year = {2024},
author = {Benhalima, I and Jacquemont, L and Milière, L and Tone, A and Ettahar, N and Dewulf, G and Mazars, E},
title = {Meningitis due to Gemella sp. in a patient with severe ENT conditions: case report and review of the literature.},
journal = {Annals of clinical microbiology and antimicrobials},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {106},
pmid = {39696290},
issn = {1476-0711},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Aged ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; Meningitis, Bacterial/microbiology/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Esophageal Neoplasms/complications ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {In June 2022, a 73-year-old man with a history of laryngeal and esophageal carcinoma was admitted to the emergency unit with sudden fever, confusion, and general condition deterioration. Initial assessments showed a fever of 38.5 °C, elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) at 209 mg/L, and a neutrophil count of 10.4 G/L, with negative results for urine analysis, blood cultures, and multiple infectious pathogens, including Legionella pneumophila, pneumococcal antigen, and SARS-CoV-2. Computed tomography (CT) scans revealed no significant infectious focus.Empirical treatment with Ceftriaxone and Ciprofloxacin was initiated. Despite treatment, the patient's condition remained unchanged, and a lumbar puncture revealed turbid cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with 14,300 white blood cells (WBC)/mm[3], predominantly neutrophils, elevated proteins, and decreased glucose. Gram staining suggested Neisseria meningitidis, but further testing was necessary. Antibiotic therapy was switched to Cefotaxime and Dexamethasone, and the patient was transferred to the Tropical and Infectious Disease Unit.Multiplex PCR assays and additional CSF tests were negative for common pathogens. Sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA identified Gemella sp. The patient's condition improved with continued Cefotaxime treatment, and he recovered without neurological sequelae. Subsequent dental CT revealed poor dental hygiene but no signs of osteo-meningeal breach or bone lysis.A literature review identified 22 reported cases of central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by various Gemella species from 1980 to 2022. Of these, 59% presented with meningitis, and 41% had additional encephalitis or brain abscesses. Complete recovery occurred in 77% of cases, with 9% resulting in neurological damage and another 9% in fatal outcomes. Relapses occurred in 14% of the cases. The review highlighted that CNS infections by Gemella spp. primarily affect immunocompromised adults with ENT (ear nose throat) or neurological breaches, although some cases involved healthy individuals.This case underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by uncommon pathogens like Gemella and highlights the utility of molecular microbiology in identifying causative agents, thus guiding appropriate treatment. The patient's history of ENT and esophageal cancers, along with recent radiotherapy and chemotherapy, likely contributed to the infection's development. The case emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation in febrile confusion cases and the potential role of Gemella spp. in CNS infections.},
}

Humans
Male
Aged
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
Meningitis, Bacterial/microbiology/drug therapy/diagnosis
Esophageal Neoplasms/complications
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid39695051,
year = {2024},
author = {Moran, C and Seidel, S and Abolhosseini, S and Coroiu, A and Sohail, R and Gamboa, J and Valdarchi, AB and Hernandez, L and Campbell, TS},
title = {Quantitative Measurement of Individual and Contextual Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccination in General Population Samples: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {International journal of behavioral medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39695051},
issn = {1532-7558},
support = {MM1- 174902/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This scoping review aims to map the quantitative literature investigating vaccine-related individual and contextual determinants of COVID-19 vaccination uptake, identify and define constructs assessed, and describe the characteristics of self-report measures.

METHODS: A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted to capture peer-reviewed journal articles published between December 31, 2019, and December 25, 2021. Studies conducted in English and collecting data from general population samples using self-report measures of vaccine-related determinants of COVID-19 vaccination behavior were eligible. Data were analyzed using a descriptive statistics and content analysis, and constructs were mapped onto the COM-B model. The review pre-registration is available on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/82fsz).

RESULTS: This review identified 157 studies (6153 abstracts and 997 full texts screened) and 425 vaccine-related constructs were retrieved from included studies. Of these, 4% were mapped to capability factors, 85% to motivation, and 11% to opportunity. The most frequently assessed constructs were positive attitudes (19% of constructs), negative attitudes (16%), intention (10%), and beliefs (8%). Only 11% of studies used or adapted pre-existing measures in their surveys. Psychometric properties of self-report measures used were not reported in the majority of studies (60%).

CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest a predominant focus on perceived individual-level predictors of COVID-19 vaccination with inconsistent measurement, potentially compromising research validity. This research highlights opportunities to explore social/environmental factors, establish unified definitions, and employ validated self-report measures for robust survey-based studies on COVID-19 vaccination determinants.},
}

@article {pmid39694730,
year = {2024},
author = {Charlton, BT and Goulding, RP and Jaspers, RT and Appelman, B and van Vugt, M and Wüst, RCI},
title = {Skeletal muscle adaptations and post-exertional malaise in long COVID.},
journal = {Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tem.2024.11.008},
pmid = {39694730},
issn = {1879-3061},
abstract = {When acute SARS-CoV-2 infections cause symptoms that persist longer than 3 months, this condition is termed long COVID. Symptoms experienced by patients often include myalgia, fatigue, brain fog, cognitive impairments, and post-exertional malaise (PEM), which is the worsening of symptoms following mental or physical exertion. There is little consensus on the pathophysiology of exercise-induced PEM and skeletal-muscle-related symptoms. In this opinion article we highlight intrinsic mitochondrial dysfunction, endothelial abnormalities, and a muscle fiber type shift towards a more glycolytic phenotype as main contributors to the reduced exercise capacity in long COVID. The mechanistic trigger for physical exercise to induce PEM is unknown, but rapid skeletal muscle tissue damage and intramuscular infiltration of immune cells contribute to PEM-related symptoms.},
}

@article {pmid39694420,
year = {2024},
author = {Shannon, A and Canard, B},
title = {Nucleotide analogues and mpox: Repurposing the repurposable.},
journal = {Antiviral research},
volume = {234},
number = {},
pages = {106057},
doi = {10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.106057},
pmid = {39694420},
issn = {1872-9096},
abstract = {While the COVID-19 crisis is still ongoing, a new public health threat has emerged with recent outbreaks of monkeypox (mpox) infections in Africa. Mass vaccination is not currently recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), and antiviral treatments are yet to be specifically approved for mpox, although existing FDA-approved drugs (Tecovirimat, Brincidofovir, and Cidofovir) may be used in severe cases or for immunocompromised patients. A first-line of defense is thus drug repurposing, which was heavily attempted against SARS-CoV-2 - albeit with limited success. This review focuses on nucleoside analogues as promising antiviral candidates for targeting of the viral DNA-dependent DNA polymerase. In contrast to broad-spectrum screening approaches employed for SARS-CoV-2, we emphasize the importance of understanding the structural specificity of viral polymerases for rational selection of potential candidates. By comparing DNA-dependent DNA polymerases with other viral polymerases, we highlight the unique features that influence the efficacy and selectivity of nucleoside analogues. These structural insights provide a framework for the preselection, repurposing, optimization, and design of nucleoside analogues, aiming to accelerate the development of targeted antiviral therapies for mpox and other viral infections.},
}

@article {pmid39693873,
year = {2024},
author = {Alirezaee, A and Mirmoghtadaei, M and Heydarlou, H and Akbarian, A and Alizadeh, Z},
title = {Interferon therapy in alpha and Delta variants of SARS-CoV-2: The dichotomy between laboratory success and clinical realities.},
journal = {Cytokine},
volume = {186},
number = {},
pages = {156829},
doi = {10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156829},
pmid = {39693873},
issn = {1096-0023},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. The emergence of the Alpha and Delta variants of SARS-CoV-2 has led to a renewed interest in using interferon therapy as a potential treatment option. Interferons are a group of signaling proteins produced by host cells in response to viral infections. They play a critical role in the innate immune response to viral infections by inducing an antiviral state in infected and neighboring cells. Interferon therapy has shown promise as a potential treatment option for COVID-19. In this review paper, we review the current knowledge regarding interferon therapy in the context of the Alpha and Delta variants of SARS-CoV-2 and discuss the challenges that must be overcome to translate laboratory findings into effective clinical treatments.},
}

@article {pmid39693583,
year = {2025},
author = {Nath, A and Kolson, DL},
title = {Reemerging Infectious Diseases and Neuroimmunologic Complications.},
journal = {Neurology(R) neuroimmunology & neuroinflammation},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {e200356},
pmid = {39693583},
issn = {2332-7812},
support = {R01 NS122570/NS/NINDS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging ; COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {During the past decade (and beyond), neurologists have become aware of the emergence, persistence, and consequences of some familiar and new infections affecting the nervous system. Even among the familiar CNS infections, such as herpes virus, polyoma virus/JC, influenza, arbovirus, and hepatitis, challenges remain in developing effective antiviral treatments and treatments of postinfection sequelae. With the changing environment and increased global travel, arthropod vectors that mediate zoonotic disease transmission have spread unfamiliar viruses such as West Nile virus, dengue, chikungunya, equine encephalitis, and Zika, among others. Although the global health impact of these diseases has not risen to that of COVID-19 and HIV, it is likely to dramatically increase with continued spread of transmission vectors and the emergence of new zoonotic animal-to-human diseases mediated by those transmission vectors. Furthermore, specific virus-targeting treatments or effective vaccines for arboviral infections are not yet available, and this represents a major challenge in limiting the morbidity of these infections. By contrast, HIV-1, a disease that originated by direct transmission from nonhuman primates to humans (as early as the 1930s), after many years of intense study, is now targeted by highly specific and effective antiviral drugs that can limit the spread of infection and extend human life and health in all populations. Even with these dramatic therapeutic effects of suppressing HIV replication, neurologic dysfunction (primarily cognitive impairment) affects significant numbers of persons living with HIV. This emphasizes not only the importance of treating the underlying infection but also developing treatments for legacy effects of the initial infection even after antiviral therapy. Notably, the rapid emergence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was met with rapid implementation of highly effective and specific antiviral therapies. This resulted in early and dramatic lowering of the morbidity and mortality of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nonetheless, the postinfectious complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection (long COVID) are now among the more costly consequences of emerging zoonotic infections worldwide. Developing new antiviral therapies that can penetrate the CNS, vaccines, and therapies that target host immune responses and metabolic dysfunction will be necessary for management of infectious and postinfectious complications of established and emerging infections.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging
COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid39693007,
year = {2024},
author = {Nagib, M and Sayed, AM and Korany, AH and Abdelkader, K and Shari, FH and Mackay, WG and Rateb, ME},
title = {Human Defensins: Structure, Function, and Potential as Therapeutic Antimicrobial Agents with Highlights Against SARS CoV-2.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39693007},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {The human defensins are a group of cationic antimicrobial peptides that range in size from 2 to 5 kDa and share a common structural motif of six disulphide-linked cysteines. Several naturally occurring human α- and β-defensins have been identified over the past two decades. They have a wide variety of antimicrobial effects, and their potential to avoid the development of resistance to antimicrobial treatment makes them attractive as therapeutic agents. Human defensins have recently been the focus of medical and molecular biology studies due to their promising application in medicine and the pharmaceutical industry. This work aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current developments of human defensins, including their identification, categorization, molecular features, expression, modes of action, and potential application in medical settings. Current obstacles and future opportunities for using human defensins are also covered. Furthermore, we shed light on the potential of this class as an antiviral agent, particularly against SARS CoV-2, by providing an in silico-based investigation of their plausible mechanisms of action.},
}

@article {pmid39692520,
year = {2024},
author = {Oumghar, A and Izza, I},
title = {Risk management in Moroccan public hospitals: a literature review.},
journal = {International journal of health care quality assurance},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1108/IJHCQA-08-2023-0057},
pmid = {39692520},
issn = {0952-6862},
abstract = {PURPOSE: The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of risk management practices in the healthcare sector, with a particular focus on identifying challenges and strategies in Moroccan hospitals.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A literature search was carried out on several academic search engines using search terms reflecting the relationship between risk management and public hospitals in Morocco.

FINDINGS: The Moroccan public hospital is confronted with several disjunctions, which can be sources of multiple risks. This influences the quality of care provided to patients and can sometimes threaten their vital prognosis. The risk management process can help health professionals, researchers and risk managers to be agile and identify and anticipate risks in order to avoid serious accidents that can affect the whole organization, especially after the pandemic lived experiences (COVID-19).

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: Protecting human life in an environment where risks are omnipresent is a dilemma that every hospital organization must confront. So, risk management in the hospital is not a simple process, given the interaction of several components and the sensitivity of the field. Risk management in this establishment must be rigorous because every error can cost human life. In this sense, the analysis of risk management processes in Moroccan hospitals, based on what really exists, enables the identification of shortcomings in order to master the risk management system and thus protect goods and services as well as human life, which is the ultimate goal of the hospital organization's existence.},
}

@article {pmid39691699,
year = {2024},
author = {Vijayan K K, V and De Paris, K},
title = {Nonhuman primate models of pediatric viral diseases.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1493885},
pmid = {39691699},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Models, Animal ; Humans ; *Virus Diseases/immunology ; *Primates ; Pregnancy ; Female ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Infant ; HIV Infections/immunology ; Zika Virus Infection/immunology/virology ; Child ; },
abstract = {Infectious diseases are the leading cause of death in infants and children under 5 years of age. In utero exposure to viruses can lead to spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, congenital abnormalities or other developmental defects, often resulting in lifelong health sequalae. The underlying biological mechanisms are difficult to study in humans due to ethical concerns and limited sample access. Nonhuman primates (NHP) are closely related to humans, and pregnancy and immune ontogeny in infants are very similar to humans. Therefore, NHP are a highly relevant model for understanding fetal and postnatal virus-host interactions and to define immune mechanisms associated with increased morbidity and mortality in infants. We will discuss NHP models of viruses causing congenital infections, respiratory diseases in early life, and HIV. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) remains the most common cause of congenital defects worldwide. Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, yet measles cases are resurging. Zika is an example of an emerging arbovirus with devastating consequences for the developing fetus and the surviving infant. Among the respiratory viruses, we will discuss influenza and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We will finish with HIV as an example of a lifelong infection without a cure or vaccine. The review will highlight (i) the impact of viral infections on fetal and infant immune development, (ii) how differences in infant and adult immune responses to infection alter disease outcome, and emphasize the invaluable contribution of pediatric NHP infection models to the design of effective treatment and prevention strategies, including vaccines, for human infants.},
}

Animals
*Disease Models, Animal
Humans
*Virus Diseases/immunology
*Primates
Pregnancy
Female
COVID-19/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Infant
HIV Infections/immunology
Zika Virus Infection/immunology/virology
Child

@article {pmid39691656,
year = {2024},
author = {Kisielinski, K and Wojtasik, B and Zalewska, A and Livermore, DM and Jurczak-Kurek, A},
title = {The bacterial burden of worn face masks-observational research and literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1460981},
pmid = {39691656},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Masks/statistics & numerical data/microbiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/transmission ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification ; Bacterial Load ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Facemasks were widely mandated during the recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Especially the use by the general population is associated with a higher risk of improper handling of the mask and contamination and potential adverse microbiological consequences.

METHODS: We investigated and quantified bacterial accumulation in facemasks used by the general population, using 16S rRNA (Sanger Sequencing), culture and biochemical analysis along with Rose Bengal staining. Additionally, a systematic overview of the literature on face mask contamination was undertaken.

RESULTS: We found an average bacterial load of 4.24 × 10[4] CFU recovered/mask, with a maximum load of 2.85 × 10[5] CFU. This maximum is 310 times higher than the limit value for contamination of ventilation system outlet surfaces specified by the German standard VDI 6022. Biochemical and molecular identification predominantly found Staphylococcus species (80%), including Staphylococcus aureus, along with endospore-forming Bacillus spp. Literature reports also indicate contamination of masks by bacterial and fungal opportunists of the genera Acinetobacter, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Bacillus, Cadosporium, Candida, Escherichia, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Klebsiella (including K. pneumoniae), Micrococcus, Microsporum, Mucor, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Bacterial counts increase linearly with wearing duration.

DISCUSSION: Prolonged use may affect the skin and respiratory microbiomes, promoting consequential eye, skin, oral and airway conditions. These aspects underscore the urgent need for further research and a risk-benefit analysis in respect of mask use, particularly given their unproven efficacy in disrupting the transmission of respiratory viruses and their adverse social consequences.},
}

Humans
*Masks/statistics & numerical data/microbiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/transmission
*SARS-CoV-2
Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification
Bacterial Load
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid39691655,
year = {2024},
author = {McArthur, M and Tian, P and Kho, KA and Bhavan, KP and Balasubramanian, BA and Ganguly, AP},
title = {Childcare as a social determinant of access to healthcare: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1443992},
pmid = {39691655},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Social Determinants of Health ; *Child Care ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: As health systems strive to screen for and address social determinants of health (SDOH), the role of access to childcare and barriers to healthcare posed by childcare needs remains underexplored. A gap exists in synthesizing existing evidence on the role of access to childcare as a SDOH.

METHODS: This scoping review aimed to examine and analyze existing literature on the role of childcare needs as a social determinant of access to healthcare. We conducted a structured literature search across PubMed, Scopus, health policy fora, and professional healthcare societies to inclusively aggregate studies across interdisciplinary sources published between January 2000 and June 2023. Two independent reviewers reviewed results to determine inclusions and exclusions. Studies were coded into salient themes utilizing an iterative inductive approach.

RESULTS: Among 535 search results, 526 met criteria for eligibility screening. Among 526 eligible studies, 91 studies met inclusion criteria for analysis. Five key themes were identified through data analysis: (1) barriers posed by childcare needs to healthcare appointments, (2) the opportunity for alternative care delivery models to overcome childcare barriers, (3) the effect of childcare needs on participation in medical research, (4) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on childcare needs, and (5) the disproportionate burden of childcare experienced by vulnerable populations.

DISCUSSION: Childcare needs remain underexplored in existing research. Current evidence demonstrates the relevance of childcare needs as a barrier to healthcare access, however dedicated studies are lacking. Future research is needed to understand mechanisms of childcare barriers in access to healthcare and explore potential interventions.},
}

Humans
*Health Services Accessibility
*Social Determinants of Health
*Child Care
Child
Child, Preschool
COVID-19

@article {pmid39691490,
year = {2024},
author = {Stavar-Matei, L and Mihailov, OM and Nechita, A and Crestez, AM and Tocu, G},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on Pneumococcal Acute Otitis Media, Antibiotic Resistance, and Vaccination in Children.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {5567-5578},
pmid = {39691490},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {Streptococcus pneumoniae is the main pathogen that plays a dual role, on the one hand as an asymptomatic carrier in the nasopharyngeal mucosa and on the other hand directly responsible for triggering invasive pneumococcal infections with various important localizations, especially in the pediatric population. Thus, invasive pneumococcal infections represent one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in children under 5 years of age. Immunization is a key preventive measure against these infections. The evolution of these infections caused by S. pneumoniae is influenced both directly and indirectly by several factors: the immunization status of the patient, the regional and seasonal distribution of pneumococcal serotypes, susceptibility to anti-biotics, the existence of viral or bacterial co-infections and the socio-economic conditions specific to each region. This review gathers the current open-access PubMed evidence on the incidence of invasive pneumococcal infections and their susceptibility to antibiotics in the 0-5 age group during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We have chosen this association with the SARS-COV- 2 virus because this pandemic has caused major changes on all personal, social, professional, and medical levels worldwide. Both pneumococcal disease and COVID-19 have similar risk factors, and S. pneumoniae was one of the most common co-infecting agents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The attention was focused on 8 clinical trials published in the pre- and post COVID-19 period that had as main subject acute otitis media caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae in children aged 0-5 years. The studies were collected from different geographical regions, both from socio-economically developed and developing countries such as Niger, Malawi, China and Papua New Guinea, Japan, Australia, Italy, in order to have a global overview. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the quality of life of pediatric patients diagnosed with pneumococcal acute otitis media both in terms of non-vaccine serotypes and antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid39691159,
year = {2024},
author = {Fallahi, MS and Faridzadeh, A and Salahi, M and Mehrabani, R and Karimi, H and Faraji, A and Imanparvar, S and Falahatian, M and Bayat, M and Norouzkhani, N and Mazhari, SA and Roostaie, M and Sadatmadani, SF and Fathi, M and Behshood, P and Deravi, N},
title = {Digital Health/e-Health Literacy among University Students in the COVID-19 Era: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical education and curricular development},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {23821205241262590},
pmid = {39691159},
issn = {2382-1205},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: During the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic, could be observed an established use of online information in the field of coronavirus disease worldwide. As a systematic review study, the present investigation aimed to evaluate related studies about digital health/e-health literacy among university students in the coronavirus disease 2019 era.

METHODS: Three electronic bibliographic databases (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched from 2020 until June 2022, and articles were screened according to pre-established inclusion criteria.

RESULTS: Fifteen studies were included in this systematic review study. All of the studies were cross-sectional in design, and in total, 45,255 students were evaluated. The majority of studies report health literacy scores among university students that are lower compared to reference samples. Students' health literacy is influenced by different variables (age, gender, socioeconomic background, sources of online information, well-being, and satisfaction with data).

CONCLUSION: Digital health literacy (DHL) shapes health behaviors and actions. To enhance DHL, multidisciplinary teams from diverse fields can design curricula suitable for students. The internet's role in DHL is crucial, but it can also spread misleading content. Therefore, professionals should provide clear, evidence-based information and encourage critical data evaluation. Future studies should use robust sampling methods, consider students with limited internet access, and address the unique needs of specific populations, such as those with disabilities and low socioeconomic status.},
}

@article {pmid39691001,
year = {2024},
author = {Jain, RS and Pandey, G and Shah, CJ and Sukhani, P and Kabra, U},
title = {Post ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Corona Virus Vaccine (Recombinant) (Covishield) Brachial Plexitis - Report of Two Cases Along with Review of Literature.},
journal = {Neurology India},
volume = {72},
number = {6},
pages = {1254-1258},
doi = {10.4103/ni.ni_1168_21},
pmid = {39691001},
issn = {1998-4022},
mesh = {Humans ; Brachial Plexus Neuritis/etiology ; *ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Various neurological complications have been linked with vaccines ranging from encephalitis, stroke, ADEM to GBS and many more. Although both viral as well as bacterial vaccines have been reported to cause neurological adverse events, brachial plexitis following vaccination is very uncommon. Vaccination drive against COVID-19 was started on 16th Jan 2021 in India. Various adverse events have been reported following vaccination since then. We observed two cases of brachial plexitis following the first dose of the Covishield vaccine. Although the risk-benefit ratio is very low for the COVID-19 vaccine, it is of vital importance for every clinician to be aware of such a rare adverse event.},
}

Humans
Brachial Plexus Neuritis/etiology
*ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39689884,
year = {2024},
author = {Teitelbaum, CS and Ferraz, A and De La Cruz, SEW and Gilmour, ME and Brosnan, IG},
title = {The potential of remote sensing for improved infectious disease ecology research and practice.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {291},
number = {2037},
pages = {20241712},
pmid = {39689884},
issn = {1471-2954},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Birds/virology ; Communicable Diseases/veterinary/transmission/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission ; Disease Outbreaks/veterinary ; *Ecology/instrumentation/methods ; Ecosystem ; Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/transmission ; *Remote Sensing Technology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Outbreaks of COVID-19 in humans, Dutch elm disease in forests, and highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild birds and poultry highlight the disruptive impacts of infectious diseases on public health, ecosystems and economies. Infectious disease dynamics often depend on environmental conditions that drive occurrence, transmission and outbreaks. Remote sensing can contribute to infectious disease research and management by providing standardized environmental data across broad spatial and temporal extents, often at no cost to the user. Here, we (i) conduct a review of primary literature to quantify current uses of remote sensing in disease ecology; and (ii) synthesize qualitative information to identify opportunities for further integration of remote sensing into disease ecology. We identify that modern advances in airborne remote sensing are enabling early detection of forest pathogens and that satellite data are most commonly used to study geographically widespread human diseases. Opportunities remain for increased use of data products that characterize vegetation, surface water and soil; provide data at high spatio-temporal and spectral resolutions; and quantify uncertainty in measurements. Additionally, combining remote sensing with animal telemetry can support decision-making for disease management by providing insights into wildlife disease dynamics. Integrating these opportunities will advance both research and management of infectious diseases.},
}

Animals
Humans
Birds/virology
Communicable Diseases/veterinary/transmission/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission
Disease Outbreaks/veterinary
*Ecology/instrumentation/methods
Ecosystem
Influenza in Birds/epidemiology/transmission
*Remote Sensing Technology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39689701,
year = {2024},
author = {Francese, R and Rittà, M and Lembo, D and Donalisio, M},
title = {Lupus and SARS-CoV-2: What have we learned after the pandemic?.},
journal = {Lupus},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {9612033241309845},
doi = {10.1177/09612033241309845},
pmid = {39689701},
issn = {1477-0962},
abstract = {After the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, we analysed the relationship between Systemic Lupus Erythematosous (SLE) and COVID-19 from the virologist's perspective based on recent findings. SLE and COVID-19 co-morbidity present unique challenges, as individuals with SLE may be at increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness due to immune system abnormalities and ongoing therapies. Effective management of both diseases requires careful monitoring, adherence to vaccination programs, preventive measures and approved and patient-tailored therapies. This review covers various aspects, including the clinical outcome of SLE patients infected by SARS-CoV-2, the impact of this infection on SLE onset or flare-ups and the benefits of vaccination for this population. Furthermore, this review presents the most recent recommendations on clinical management of COVID-19 in rheumatic patients, including those with SLE, discussing the currently available therapeutic options. Finally, we explore the most effective tools for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis in autoimmune conditions and examine prognostic biomarkers in COVID-19 rheumatic patients with potential implications on their clinical oversight. By adopting a comprehensive approach, we address these complexities from the virologist's perspective, aiming to improve health care for this vulnerable population.},
}

@article {pmid39689472,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhang, J and Cheng, L and Li, H and Chen, X and Zhang, L and Shan, T and Wang, J and Chen, D and Shen, J and Zhou, X and Gou, L and Zhang, L and Zhou, X and Ren, B},
title = {Challenges of quaternary ammonium antimicrobial agents: Mechanisms, resistance, persistence and impacts on the microecology.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {958},
number = {},
pages = {178020},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.178020},
pmid = {39689472},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) served as broad spectrum antimicrobial agents are widely applied for surface disinfection, skin and mucous disinfection, and mouthwash. The daily applications of QACs have significantly increased, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the environmental residues of QACs have demonstrated harmful impacts on the environment, leading to an increase in environmental contamination, resistant microbes and disruption of microecology. The actions of QACs were related to their cationic character, which can impact the negatively charged cell membranes, but the details are still unclear. Moreover, bacteria with lower sensitivity and resistant pathogens have been detected in clinics and environments, while QACs were also reported to induce the formation of bacterial persisters. Even worse, the resistant bacteria even showed co-resistance and cross-resistance with traditional antibiotics, decreasing therapeutic effectiveness, and disrupting the microecology homeostasis. Unfortunately, the resistance and persistence mechanisms of QACs and the effects of QACs on microecology are still not clear, which even neglected during their daily usages. Therefore, we summarized and discussed current understandings on the antimicrobial actions, resistance, persistence and impacts on the microecology to highlight the challenges in the QACs applications and discuss the possible strategies for overcoming their drawbacks.},
}

@article {pmid39689411,
year = {2025},
author = {Alshamrani, M and Farahat, F and Albarrak, A and El-Saed, A and Shibl, AM and Memish, ZA and Mousa, M and Haridy, H and Althaqafi, A},
title = {Narrative review of factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 coinfection in Middle Eastern countries and the need to vaccinate against preventable diseases.},
journal = {Journal of infection and public health},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {102600},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102600},
pmid = {39689411},
issn = {1876-035X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Coinfection/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/complications ; Middle East/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Bacterial Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Mycoses/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {This review evaluated the frequency of, and outcomes associated with, bacterial, fungal, and viral coinfection with SARS-CoV-2 in Middle Eastern countries via a PubMed search through February 2023. Ninety articles reported bacterial (n = 57), fungal (n = 32), and viral (n = 32) coinfections. High frequencies of coinfection with COVID-19 were identified, with rates and outcomes varying by setting, pathogen, surveillance/detection method, population characteristics, and drug-resistance status. Mortality rates were higher in patients with community-acquired (10.0 -42.9 %) and hospital-acquired (51.5 -66 %) bacterial coinfection versus those without (10.5 -21.7 %). Outcomes were worse with than without fungal coinfection, and fatality rates with mucormycosis coinfection reached 66.7 %. Outcomes with viral coinfection were highly variable; however, some data suggested a positive corelation between COVID-19 severity and influenza A and adenovirus coinfection. The negative outcomes associated with bacterial, fungal and some viral coinfections in individuals with COVID-19 support regular vaccination against vaccine-preventable diseases caused by these pathogens, especially among at-risk populations.},
}

Humans
*Coinfection/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/complications
Middle East/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2
Bacterial Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology
Mycoses/epidemiology/prevention & control
Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control

@article {pmid39689254,
year = {2024},
author = {Alijanzadeh, D and Karimi, H and Masoumi, N and Kazemzadeh, K and Samieefar, N and Mesdaghi, M},
title = {Polio outbreaks in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era: causes and solutions.},
journal = {Pathogens and global health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/20477724.2024.2439740},
pmid = {39689254},
issn = {2047-7732},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disrupted polio immunization programs worldwide. The consequences of these programs' suspension were not fully presented during the COVID-19 pandemic, as some take time to present in a population. We conducted a narrative review to provide a perspective of current literature on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on efforts made for poliomyelitis eradication. An overview of potential risks of polio outbreaks and areas where wild and vaccine-derived polioviruses have been reported will be presented in this review. Decreased vaccination rate, human and financial resources diversion to tackle COVID-19, and polio surveillance suspension during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to creating an immunity gap and increasing the risk of polio outbreaks in at-risk areas. Approaches for integrating immunization efforts with educating the general population, engaging religious leaders, and solving gender disparities to fill the gap that have been made during the pandemic. The path to control polio should engage different levels of policy-making, and governments of affected countries play crucial roles. Strong interdisciplinary collaboration and dedicated efforts are needed to inform policymakers and encourage the public to follow vaccination programs.},
}

@article {pmid39689211,
year = {2024},
author = {Varyvonchyk, DV and Yavorovskyi, ОP and Petrovska, OS and Ustinova, LA and Kalashnikov, AA and Kurdil, NV and Palamar, BI},
title = {Occupational safety of healthcare workers in the terms of the Covid-19 pandemic as the public health aspect.},
journal = {Polski merkuriusz lekarski : organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego},
volume = {52},
number = {5},
pages = {604-609},
doi = {10.36740/Merkur202405120},
pmid = {39689211},
issn = {1426-9686},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/transmission ; *Health Personnel/standards/statistics & numerical data ; Infection Control/methods/standards ; *Occupational Health/standards ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Personal Protective Equipment/standards/supply & distribution ; Public Health/standards ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Ukraine/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Aim: To assess the level of occupational safety, health and hygiene of healthcare workers in the terms of the COVID-19 pandemic..

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: bibliosemantic, bibliographic, analytical, statistical methods as well as a systemic approach have been used in the research. The data of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, the State Labour Service and the scientific research findings from open sources have been analyzed.

CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The safety of healthcare workers with regard to infection is essential for a secure hospital environment. From an infection prevention perspective, PPE and sanitary requirements are fundamental to ensuring a safe environment for healthcare workers. The analysis revealed inadequate provision of PPE for healthcare workers during the pandemic, with levels ranging from 61,25% to 63,63%. The risk of contracting the novel coronavirus among healthcare personel during the pandemic was 12 times higher than in the general population. The risk of developing an occupational disease among those who treated patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 was 58,1 times higher. The analysis revealed that the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) to healthcare workers during the study period was only two-thirds of the required amount, which consequently elevated the risk and incidence of morbidity among healthcare workers.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/transmission
*Health Personnel/standards/statistics & numerical data
Infection Control/methods/standards
*Occupational Health/standards
Pandemics/prevention & control
*Personal Protective Equipment/standards/supply & distribution
Public Health/standards
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Ukraine/epidemiology

@article {pmid39686505,
year = {2024},
author = {Qi, S and Chen, S and Witte, D and Molenberghs, G and Zhang, Q and Gu, H and Gao, Y},
title = {Laboratory biosafety: A visual analysis in the web of science database from 2000 to 2022: A review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {103},
number = {50},
pages = {e40791},
pmid = {39686505},
issn = {1536-5964},
support = {2022C03124//the Major Social Welfare Project of Zhejiang Province/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Containment of Biohazards/methods ; *Laboratories ; Databases, Factual ; China/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {To conduct a visual analysis of institutional publications, individual publications and publication keywords in the field of laboratory biosafety using the Web of Science database from 2000 to 2022.VOSviewer 1.6.18 was used to study the relation between paper authors, and CiteSpace 6.1.R6 was used to visualize the collaboration between the paper institutions, the paper keywords and the timeline. The main research institutions included the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USA), and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (China). The collaboration between the research institutions was limited and dispersed. Each of the main study teams is led by Feldmann Heinz, Peter B. Jahrling, Roger Hewson, and Li Na. Infection, identification, and outbreak are the keywords that appear more often and are also of higher importance in publications. The citation burst of keywords varies over time: outbreak, resistance, and polymerase chain reaction from 2004 to 2012; gene, cells, and Ebola from 2013 to 2017; and spread, safety, coronavirus, and African swine fever from 2018 to 2022. The centralization of research teams and individuals in laboratory biosafety is not conducive to the growth of disciplinary diversity. These publication keywords are mainly align with significant social events, scientific and technological development trends, and national strategic needs. This paper advocates for a more balanced allocation of resources and collaboration opportunities to foster diversity and address emerging challenges in the field of laboratory biosafety.},
}

Humans
*Containment of Biohazards/methods
*Laboratories
Databases, Factual
China/epidemiology

@article {pmid39685817,
year = {2024},
author = {Fogliazza, F and Sambati, V and Iovane, B and Lazzeroni, P and Street, ME and Esposito, S},
title = {Telemedicine for Managing Type 1 Diabetes in Children and Adolescents Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39685817},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed the rapid expansion of telemedicine for managing chronic conditions such as type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children and adolescents. This narrative review aims to explore the role of telemedicine in pediatric T1D management by comparing its use before and after the pandemic. We conducted a comprehensive literature review covering studies published between 2000 and 2024, focusing on telemedicine applications in pediatric T1D care. The review includes clinical trials, systematic reviews, and observational studies examining telemedicine's impact on glycemic control, patient satisfaction, and healthcare delivery. Results reveal that telemedicine has enhanced access to care, improved glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and reduced diabetic ketoacidosis and hypoglycemic events. Patients and caregivers expressed high satisfaction, especially when using continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pump technologies integrated with telemedicine platforms. However, challenges such as digital literacy gaps, variability in healthcare provider training, and logistical issues like reimbursement policies persist. The pandemic highlighted the potential of telemedicine to supplement traditional in-person care, showing promise in enhancing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens. Further research is needed to optimize telemedicine models for T1D, addressing barriers to implementation and exploring its long-term cost-effectiveness. This review underscores telemedicine's evolving role as a complementary approach in managing pediatric T1D, advocating for the development of standardized care protocols to fully integrate digital health solutions into routine clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid39685583,
year = {2024},
author = {Serapide, F and Talarico, M and Rotundo, S and Pascale, V and Serraino, R and Trecarichi, EM and Russo, A},
title = {Lights and Shadows of Long COVID: Are Latent Infections the Real Hidden Enemy?.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39685583},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Long COVID-19 (LC) is a poorly understood, multifactorial condition that persists for at least three months following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the wide range of associated symptoms-including fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory issues-remain unclear. However, emerging evidence suggests that the reactivation of latent viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and varicella-zoster virus, may significantly contribute to the complexity of LC. These latent viruses can be reactivated by SARS-CoV-2, contributing to a chronic inflammatory state that prolongs symptomatology. This review confirms the potential involvement of latent viral infections in LC and examines whether these infections play an independent role or act synergistically with other factors. In addition, recent studies have highlighted viral persistence and immune dysregulation as key elements in LC. Our findings suggest that preventative strategies, including vaccination and antiviral treatments during the acute phase of COVID-19, show potential in reducing LC risk by preventing viral reactivation. However, tailored diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting these latent infections are urgently needed. Identifying biomarkers of viral reactivation, particularly for high-risk populations, could be considered another effective strategy to mitigate LC severity. Further research is crucial to better understand the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and latent infections, and to improve the prevention and treatment of LC.},
}

@article {pmid39684988,
year = {2024},
author = {Negucioiu, M and Buduru, S and Ghiz, S and Kui, A and Șoicu, S and Buduru, R and Sava, S},
title = {Prevalence and Management of Burnout Among Dental Professionals Before, During, and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39684988},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {internal funding//"Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania./ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Burnout syndrome represents a significant challenge in healthcare, impacting dental professionals globally across all geographic, demographic, or socioeconomic backgrounds. Pervasive work-related stress and insufficient management practices highlight the urgent need for enhanced awareness and targeted interventions.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the prevalence, causes, and impacts of burnout among dental professionals and to explore the effectiveness of various occupational health interventions aimed at managing and preventing burnout in the dental sector during different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines, searching electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, from January 2014 to April 2024. The eligibility criteria included studies reporting on the prevalence of burnout, interventions to reduce burnout, and the impact of burnout on dental practices. A quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies.

RESULTS: The findings indicate high levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment among dental practitioners, with significant variations influenced by workplace factors, professional relationships, and pandemic-related stresses. Differential effects based on educational level and age were also evident.

CONCLUSIONS: This review highlights the urgent need for targeted public health initiatives and occupational health strategies to address and mitigate burnout in dentistry. Emphasizing professional relationships and workplace dynamics could play a crucial role in the prevention and management of burnout (PROSPERO registration no. CRD42024586616).},
}

@article {pmid39684504,
year = {2024},
author = {Niazi, SK and Magoola, M},
title = {Advancing Therapeutic and Vaccine Proteins: Switching from Recombinant to Ribosomal Delivery-A Humanitarian Cause.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {25},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39684504},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Recombinant Proteins/therapeutic use ; *Ribosomes/metabolism/genetics ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/virology ; RNA, Messenger/genetics ; },
abstract = {Recombinant therapeutic and vaccine proteins have revolutionized healthcare, but there remain challenges, as many are awaiting development due to their slow development speed and high development cost. Cell-free in vivo ribosomes offer one choice, but they come with similar constraints. The validation of in vivo messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has been accomplished for COVID-19 vaccines. The bioreactors inside the body, the ribosomes, deliver these proteins at a small cost, since these are chemical products and do not require extensive analytical and regulatory exercises. In this study, we test and validate the final product. A smaller fraction of the recombinant protein cost is needed, removing both constraints. Although thousands of in vivo mRNA products are under development, their regulatory classification remains unresolved: do they qualify as chemical drugs, biological drug, or gene therapy items? These questions will soon be resolved. Additionally, how would the copies of approved in vivo mRNA protein products be brought in, and how would they be treated: as new drugs, generic drugs, or new biological drugs? Researchers are currently working to answer these questions. Regardless, these products' cost of goods (COGs) remains much smaller than that of ex vivo mRNA or recombinant products. This is necessary to meet the needs of the approximately 6.5 billion people around the world who do not have access to biological drugs; these products will indeed serve the dire needs of humanity. Given the minor cost of establishing the manufacturing of these products, it will also prove financially attractive to investors.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Recombinant Proteins/therapeutic use
*Ribosomes/metabolism/genetics
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*COVID-19/prevention & control/virology
RNA, Messenger/genetics

@article {pmid39684447,
year = {2024},
author = {Bukowska, B},
title = {Current and Potential Use of Biologically Active Compounds Derived from Cannabis sativa L. in the Treatment of Selected Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {25},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39684447},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {B2011000000191.01//University of Lodz/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Cannabis/chemistry ; Cannabinoids/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Neoplasms/drug therapy ; Animals ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology/therapeutic use/chemistry ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Cannabidiol/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Cannabis sativa L. contains numerous compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, including the flavonoids and the cannabinoids, particularly Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabinoids have an effect on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a cellular communication network, and are, hence, widely studied for medical applications. Epidiolex[®], a 99% pure oral CBD extract, has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of epilepsy. Nabiximols (Sativex) is an oromucosal spray containing equal volume of THC and CBD, and it is commonly used as an add-on treatment for unresponsive spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have also shown that cannabinoids can be used to treat various types of cancer, such as melanoma and brain glioblastoma; the first positive clinical trials on the anticancer effect of a THC:CBD blend with temozolomide (TMZ) in the treatment of highly invasive brain cancer are very promising. The cannabinoids exert their anticancer properties in in vitro investigations by the induction of cell death, mainly by apoptosis and cytotoxic autophagy, and the inhibition of cell proliferation. In several studies, cannabinoids have been found to induce tumor regression and inhibit angiogenic mechanisms in vitro and in vivo, as well as in two low-numbered epidemiological studies. They also exhibit antiviral effects by inhibiting ACE2 transcription, blocking viral replication and fusion, and acting as anti-inflammatory agents; indeed, prior CBD consumption (a study of 93,565 persons in Chicago) has also been associated with a much lower incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections. It is postulated that cannabis extracts can be used in the treatment of many other diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes, or various types of neurological disorders, e.g., Alzheimer's disease. The aim of this review is to outline the current state of knowledge regarding currently used medicinal preparations derived from C. sativa L. in the treatment of selected cancer and viral diseases, and to present the latest research on the potential applications of its secondary metabolites.},
}

Humans
*Cannabis/chemistry
Cannabinoids/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Neoplasms/drug therapy
Animals
Plant Extracts/pharmacology/therapeutic use/chemistry
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Cannabidiol/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid39684407,
year = {2024},
author = {Haseltine, WA and Patarca, R},
title = {The RNA Revolution in the Central Molecular Biology Dogma Evolution.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {25},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39684407},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Genome, Human ; Molecular Biology/methods ; Phenotype ; *RNA/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Human genome projects in the 1990s identified about 20,000 protein-coding sequences. We are now in the RNA revolution, propelled by the realization that genes determine phenotype beyond the foundational central molecular biology dogma, stating that inherited linear pieces of DNA are transcribed to RNAs and translated into proteins. Crucially, over 95% of the genome, initially considered junk DNA between protein-coding genes, encodes essential, functionally diverse non-protein-coding RNAs, raising the gene count by at least one order of magnitude. Most inherited phenotype-determining changes in DNA are in regulatory areas that control RNA and regulatory sequences. RNAs can directly or indirectly determine phenotypes by regulating protein and RNA function, transferring information within and between organisms, and generating DNA. RNAs also exhibit high structural, functional, and biomolecular interaction plasticity and are modified via editing, methylation, glycosylation, and other mechanisms, which bestow them with diverse intra- and extracellular functions without altering the underlying DNA. RNA is, therefore, currently considered the primary determinant of cellular to populational functional diversity, disease-linked and biomolecular structural variations, and cell function regulation. As demonstrated by RNA-based coronavirus vaccines' success, RNA technology is transforming medicine, agriculture, and industry, as did the advent of recombinant DNA technology in the 1980s.},
}

Animals
Humans
Genome, Human
Molecular Biology/methods
Phenotype
*RNA/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid39684373,
year = {2024},
author = {Grabiński, W and Karachitos, A and Kicińska, A},
title = {Backstage Heroes-Yeast in COVID-19 Research.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {25},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39684373},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {6/2020 "Research on COVID-19"//Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/drug effects ; *COVID-19/virology/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/immunology ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae/metabolism ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Coronavirus 3C Proteases/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; Drug Discovery/methods ; },
abstract = {The extremely rapid development of understanding and technology that led to the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted from collaborative efforts in the fields of Betacoronavirus pandemicum (SARS-CoV-2) biology, pharmacology, vaccinology, and medicine. Perhaps surprisingly, much of the research was conducted using simple and efficient yeast models. In this manuscript, we describe how yeast, eukaryotic microorganisms, have been used to research this global challenge, focusing on the therapeutic potential of the studies discussed herein. Thus, we outline the role of yeast in studying viral protein interactions with the host cell proteome, including the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 virus spike protein to the human ACE2 receptor and its modulation. The production and exploration of viral antigens in yeast systems, which led to the development of two approved COVID-19 vaccines, are also detailed. Moreover, yeast platforms facilitating the discovery and production of single-domain antibodies (nanobodies) against SARS-CoV-2 are described. Methods guiding modern and efficient drug discovery are explained at length. In particular, we focus on studies designed to search for inhibitors of the main protease (Mpro), a unique target for anti-coronaviral therapies. We highlight the adaptability of the techniques used, providing opportunities for rapid modification and implementation alongside the evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Approaches introduced in yeast systems that may have universal potential application in studies of emerging viral diseases are also described.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/drug effects
*COVID-19/virology/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/immunology
Saccharomyces cerevisiae/metabolism
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Coronavirus 3C Proteases/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
Drug Discovery/methods

@article {pmid39683724,
year = {2024},
author = {Barghash, RF and Gemmati, D and Awad, AM and Elbakry, MMM and Tisato, V and Awad, K and Singh, AV},
title = {Navigating the COVID-19 Therapeutic Landscape: Unveiling Novel Perspectives on FDA-Approved Medications, Vaccination Targets, and Emerging Novel Strategies.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {29},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39683724},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/immunology ; *Drug Repositioning ; Drug Approval ; COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology ; United States Food and Drug Administration ; United States/epidemiology ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {Amidst the ongoing global challenge of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the quest for effective antiviral medications remains paramount. This comprehensive review delves into the dynamic landscape of FDA-approved medications repurposed for COVID-19, categorized as antiviral and non-antiviral agents. Our focus extends beyond conventional narratives, encompassing vaccination targets, repurposing efficacy, clinical studies, innovative treatment modalities, and future outlooks. Unveiling the genomic intricacies of SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the WHO-designated Omicron variant, we explore diverse antiviral categories such as fusion inhibitors, protease inhibitors, transcription inhibitors, neuraminidase inhibitors, nucleoside reverse transcriptase, and non-antiviral interventions like importin α/β1-mediated nuclear import inhibitors, neutralizing antibodies, and convalescent plasma. Notably, Molnupiravir emerges as a pivotal player, now licensed in the UK. This review offers a fresh perspective on the historical evolution of COVID-19 therapeutics, from repurposing endeavors to the latest developments in oral anti-SARS-CoV-2 treatments, ushering in a new era of hope in the battle against the pandemic.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/immunology
*Drug Repositioning
Drug Approval
COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology
United States Food and Drug Administration
United States/epidemiology
Vaccination

@article {pmid39683693,
year = {2024},
author = {Ramutshatsha-Makhwedzha, D and Munonde, TS},
title = {Review of the Integrated Approaches for Monitoring and Treating Parabens in Water Matrices.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {29},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39683693},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Liquid-Liquid Extraction/methods ; *Parabens/analysis ; Solid Phase Extraction/methods ; Wastewater/chemistry/analysis ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; Water Purification/methods ; },
abstract = {Due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties, parabens are commonly used as biocides and preservatives in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Parabens have been reported to exist in various water matrices at low concentrations, which renders the need for sample preparation before their quantification using analytical techniques. Thus, sample preparation methods such as solid-phase extraction (SPE), rotating-disk sorptive extraction (RDSE), and vortex-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid extraction (VA-DLLE) that are commonly used for parabens extraction and preconcentration have been discussed. As a result of sample preparation methods, analytical techniques now detect parabens at trace levels ranging from µg/L to ng/L. These compounds have been detected in water, air, soil, and human tissues. While the full impact of parabens on human health and ecosystems is still being debated in the scientific community, it is widely recognized that parabens can act as endocrine disruptors. Furthermore, some studies have suggested that parabens may have carcinogenic effects. The presence of parabens in the environment is primarily due to wastewater discharges, which result in widespread contamination and their concentrations increased during the COVID-19 pandemic waves. Neglecting the presence of parabens in water exposes humans to these compounds through contaminated food and drinking water. Although there are reviews that focus on the occurrence, fate, and behavior of parabens in the environment, they frequently overlook critical aspects such as removal methods, policy development, and regulatory frameworks. Addressing this gap, the effective treatment of parabens in water relies on combined approaches that address both cost and operational challenges. Membrane filtration methods, such as nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO), demonstrate high efficacy but are hindered by maintenance and energy costs due to extensive fouling. Innovations in anti-fouling and energy efficiency, coupled with pre-treatment methods like adsorption, help mitigate these costs and enhance scalability. Furthermore, combining adsorption with advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) or biological treatments significantly improves economic and energy efficiency. Integrating systems like O3/UV with activated carbon, along with byproduct recovery strategies, further advances circular economy goals by minimizing waste and resource use. This review provides a thorough overview of paraben monitoring in wastewater, current treatment techniques, and the regulatory policies that govern their presence. Furthermore, it provides perspectives that are critical for future scientific investigations and shaping policies aimed at mitigating the risks of parabens in drinking water.},
}

Environmental Monitoring/methods
Liquid-Liquid Extraction/methods
*Parabens/analysis
Solid Phase Extraction/methods
Wastewater/chemistry/analysis
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
Water Purification/methods

@article {pmid39683569,
year = {2024},
author = {Drangert, JO},
title = {City Residents Play a Pivotal Role in Managing Global Food Security While Improving Human Health and Minimizing Environmental Footprints.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {16},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39683569},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Food Security ; COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Food Supply ; Agriculture/methods ; Cities ; Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Urban Population ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Improved global data allow for a new understanding of what impact the food we produce, eat and dispose of has on the environment, human health and Nature's resources. The overall goal is to guide decision-makers and individuals by providing in-depth knowledge about the effects of their dietary preferences on human and environmental health.

METHODS: The method is to investigate ways to reduce environmental degradation and to secure healthy food supplies in an urbanizing world, and to quantify the options.

RESULTS: Reviewed articles show that by eating less meat-based food and more plant-based and soilless food, as well as reducing food waste and recycling urban-disposed nutrients as fertilizers, we could reduce agriculture's land requirement by 50% to 70% while still securing a healthy food supply. Less land under cultivation and pasture would reduce global emissions to air and water to a similar extent, and allow Nature to reclaim freed areas in order to catch more carbon and rejuvenate biodiversity. Thus, we could avoid further environmental degradation such as the current clearing of new fields needed under a business-as-usual regime. Presently, some 17 million people die each year due to poor diets, which is more than double the 7 million deaths since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. A return to more plant-based diets with unchanged intake of proteins but less calories, sugar, salt and fat combined with less red meat and ultra-processed food would reduce foremost non-communicable diseases by up to 20% and prolong life. The article suggests that the international focus has gradually turned to the food sector's big contribution to climate change, biodiversity loss and harmful chemicals as well as to poor human health. It argues that this century's rapid population growth and urbanization give urban residents a pivotal role in food's impact on agricultural areas, which today cover half of the globe's inhabitable areas. Their food demand, rather than the activities of farmers, fishermen or loggers, will guide remedial measures to be taken by individuals, industry and the public sector. A tool to calculate the potential environmental footprints of individual or societal measures is presented.

CONCLUSIONS: Measures to make the agrifood sector more sustainable are still pending full recognition in international fora such as the UN COP Summits. Smart cities fitted with infrastructures to recycle macro- and micro-nutrients and organic matter have the potential to ameliorate human-induced impacts such as emissions to air and water bodies, crossing planetary boundaries, and polluting extraction of N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus) and K (potassium). Rapid results are within reach since dietary change and the turn-around time of nutrients in food is short compared to decades or centuries for recycled materials in cars or buildings.},
}

Humans
*Food Security
COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Food Supply
Agriculture/methods
Cities
Conservation of Natural Resources/methods
Urban Population
SARS-CoV-2
Global Health

@article {pmid39682751,
year = {2024},
author = {Seo, H and Kim, S and Beck, S and Song, HY},
title = {Perspectives on Microbiome Therapeutics in Infectious Diseases: A Comprehensive Approach Beyond Immunology and Microbiology.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {13},
number = {23},
pages = {},
pmid = {39682751},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {RS-2023-00219563//Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; P248400003//Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology/ ; Soonchunhyang University Research Fund//Soonchunhyang University Research Fund/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota/immunology ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology/therapy ; Communicable Diseases/microbiology/therapy/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Although global life expectancy has increased over the past 20 years due to advancements in managing infectious diseases, one-fifth of people still die from infections. In response to this ongoing threat, significant efforts are underway to develop vaccines and antimicrobial agents. However, pathogens evolve resistance mechanisms, complicating their control. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the limitations of focusing solely on the pathogen-killing strategies of immunology and microbiology to address complex, multisystemic infectious diseases. This highlights the urgent need for practical advancements, such as microbiome therapeutics, that address these limitations while complementing traditional approaches. Our review emphasizes key outcomes in the field, including evidence of probiotics reducing disease severity and insights into host-microbiome crosstalk that have informed novel therapeutic strategies. These findings underscore the potential of microbiome-based interventions to promote physiological function alongside existing strategies aimed at enhancing host immune responses and pathogen destruction. This narrative review explores microbiome therapeutics as next-generation treatments for infectious diseases, focusing on the application of probiotics and their role in host-microbiome interactions. While offering a novel perspective grounded in a cooperative defense system, this review also addresses the practical challenges and limitations in translating these advancements into clinical settings.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota/immunology
*Probiotics/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/immunology/virology/therapy
Communicable Diseases/microbiology/therapy/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid39682008,
year = {2024},
author = {Dafur, GS and Harun, A and Kub, TNT and Bakar, RA and Harun, A},
title = {A Systematic Review on the Antimicrobial Activity of Andrographolide.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {35},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4014/jmb.2408.08028},
pmid = {39682008},
issn = {1738-8872},
abstract = {Andrographolide, a bioactive compound from Andrographis paniculata, has gained attention for its antimicrobial properties, which include antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiprotozoal effects. As an herbal extract used in traditional medicines, andrographolide also shows promise for developing new antimicrobial agents, especially in the fight against rising antimicrobial resistance. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 16 peer-reviewed studies published from 2010 to 2024 and focusing on andrographolide's effects on bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa were reviewed. The quality and bias risk of these studies were assessed using the In Vitro Quality Evaluation Instrument to ensure methodological rigor. The findings demonstrate that andrographolide is effective against bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus. However, its antifungal efficacy is limited, as it was ineffective against Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but effective against Alternaria solani. It exhibited strong antiviral activity against 2019- nCoV, Dengue virus, and Enterovirus D68, and showed antiprotozoal effects against Plasmodium falciparum and Setaria cervi. Nonetheless, variations in its efficacy across different microorganisms were observed. The quality assessment revealed low bias risk in 11 out of 16 studies (78.57% to 92.86%), while the remaining five had medium bias risk (57.14% to 64.29%), indicating an overall acceptable quality of the studies. Information on andrographolide's potential and effectiveness across various microorganisms is crucial. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to synthesize the existing data on andrographolide's antimicrobial activity and assess its potential in combating antimicrobial resistance. This review highlights the need for further research on andrographolide's antifungal activity, mechanisms of action, clinical safety, toxicity, and potential applications in antimicrobial resistance strategies.},
}

@article {pmid39681899,
year = {2024},
author = {MacPherson, P and Shanaube, K and Phiri, MD and Rickman, HM and Horton, KC and Feasey, HRA and Corbett, EL and Burke, RM and Rangaka, MX},
title = {Community-based active-case finding for tuberculosis: navigating a complex minefield.},
journal = {BMC global and public health},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {9},
pmid = {39681899},
issn = {2731-913X},
abstract = {Community-based active case finding (ACF) for tuberculosis (TB) involves an offer of screening to populations at risk of TB, oftentimes with additional health promotion, community engagement and health service strengthening. Recently updated World Health Organization TB screening guidelines conditionally recommend expanded offer of ACF for communities where the prevalence of undiagnosed pulmonary TB is greater than 0.5% among adults, or with other structural risk factors for TB. Subclinical TB is thought to be a major contributor to TB transmission, and ACF, particularly with chest X-ray screening, could lead to earlier diagnosis. However, the evidence base for the population-level impact of ACF is mixed, with effectiveness likely highly dependent on the screening approach used, the intensity with which ACF is delivered, and the success of community- and health-system participation. With recent changes in TB epidemiology due to the effective scale-up of treatment for HIV in Africa, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of subclinical TB, researchers and public health practitioners planning to implement ACF programmes must carefully and repeatedly consider the potential population and individual benefits and harms from these programmes. Here we synthesise evidence and experience from implementing ACF programmes to provide practical guidance, focusing on the selection of populations, screening algorithms, selecting outcomes, and monitoring and evaluation. With careful planning and substantial investment, community-based ACF for TB can be an impactful approach to accelerating progress towards elimination of TB in high-burden countries. However, ACF cannot and should not be a substitute for equitable access to responsive, affordable, accessible primary care services for all.},
}

@article {pmid39681616,
year = {2024},
author = {Takefuji, Y},
title = {Nutraceuticals: a promising, yet unregulated Frontier in Healthcare.},
journal = {European journal of clinical nutrition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39681616},
issn = {1476-5640},
abstract = {Nutraceuticals, with their potential health benefits, are increasingly being used to manage a variety of health conditions. The global market for nutraceuticals, valued at USD 540 billion in 2022, is projected to reach USD 1025 billion by 2030. This paper delves into the beneficial impacts of emerging nutraceuticals on a spectrum of medical disorders, drawing from credible sources from the National Library of Medicine. We have scrutinized studies on the application of nutraceuticals in treating conditions like sleep disorders, migraines, oxidative stress, mental health issues, pain disorders, obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, and even COVID-19. Our analysis indicates that nutraceuticals hold promise for addressing various health issues. However, this paper also sheds light on the health risks associated with nutraceuticals. Despite their widespread use, the safety and efficacy of nutraceuticals are still uncertain due to the lack of stringent regulations, unlike pharmaceutical drugs. This raises concerns about potential health risks and misleading claims. Research indicates that some supplements can cause adverse effects and interact with medications. Therefore, to ensure safe usage, it is imperative to implement stricter regulations, enhance reporting systems, and boost consumer awareness.},
}

@article {pmid39680873,
year = {2024},
author = {Díaz de León-Martínez, L and Flores-Rangel, G and Alcántara-Quintana, LE and Mizaikoff, B},
title = {A Review on Long COVID Screening: Challenges and Perspectives Focusing on Exhaled Breath Gas Sensing.},
journal = {ACS sensors},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acssensors.4c02280},
pmid = {39680873},
issn = {2379-3694},
abstract = {Long COVID (LC) is a great global health concern, affecting individuals recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection. The persistent and varied symptoms across multiple organs complicate diagnosis and management, and an incomplete understanding of the condition hinders advancements in therapeutics. Current diagnostic methods face challenges related to standardization and completeness. To overcome this, new technologies such as sensor-based electronic noses are being explored for LC assessment, offering a noninvasive screening approach via volatile organic compounds (VOC) sensing in exhaled breath. Although specific LC-associated VOCs have not been fully characterized, insights from COVID-19 research suggest their potential as biomarkers. Additionally, AI-driven chemometrics are promising in identifying and predicting outcomes; despite challenges, AI-driven technologies hold the potential to enhance LC evaluation, providing rapid and accurate diagnostics for improved patient care and outcomes. This review underscores the importance of emerging and sensing technologies and comprehensive diagnostic strategies to address screening and treatment challenges in the face of LC.},
}

@article {pmid39680311,
year = {2024},
author = {Spinner, CD and Bell, S and Einsele, H and Tremblay, C and Goldman, M and Chagla, Z and Finckh, A and Edwards, CJ and Aurer, I and Launay, O and Casañas I Comabella, C and James, S and Dube, S and Borkowska, K and Jah, F and Kandeil, W and Yokota, RTC and Artaud, C and Gottenberg, JE and Gesualdo, L and Bertrand, D and Arnetorp, S and Magiorkinis, G},
title = {Is COVID-19 Still a Threat? An Expert Opinion Review on the Continued Healthcare Burden in Immunocompromised Individuals.},
journal = {Advances in therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39680311},
issn = {1865-8652},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has had a profound global impact. The emergence of several variants during the pandemic has presented numerous challenges in preventing and managing this disease. The development of vaccines has played a pivotal role in controlling the pandemic, with a significant portion of the global population being vaccinated. This, along with the emergence of less virulent SARS-CoV-2 variants, has led to a reduction in the severity of COVID-19 outcomes for the overall population. Nevertheless, individuals with immunocompromising conditions continue to face challenges given their suboptimal response to vaccination and vulnerability to severe COVID-19. This expert review synthesizes recent published evidence regarding the economic and human impact of COVID-19 on such individuals. The literature suggests that rates of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, and mechanical ventilation use were high during the pre-Omicron era, and remained high during Omicron and later, despite vaccination for this population. Moreover, studies indicated that these individuals experienced a negative impact on their mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared to those without immunocompromising conditions, with elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and distress reported. Further, these individuals with immunocompromising conditions experienced substantial costs associated with COVID-19 and loss of income during the pandemic, though the evidence on the economic burden of COVID-19 in such individuals is limited. Generally, COVID-19 has increased healthcare resource use and costs, impaired mental health, and reduced HRQoL in those with varied immunocompromising conditions compared to both those without COVID-19 and the general population-underscoring the importance of continued real-world studies. Ongoing research is crucial to assess the ongoing burden of COVID-19 in vaccinated individuals with immunocompromising conditions who are still at risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes to ensure their needs are not disproportionately worse than the general population.},
}

@article {pmid39679851,
year = {2024},
author = {Davenport, C and Arevalo-Rodriguez, I and Mateos-Haro, M and Berhane, S and Dinnes, J and Spijker, R and Buitrago-Garcia, D and Ciapponi, A and Takwoingi, Y and Deeks, JJ and Emperador, D and Leeflang, MMG and Van den Bruel, A and , },
title = {The effect of sample site and collection procedure on identification of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews},
volume = {12},
number = {12},
pages = {CD014780},
pmid = {39679851},
issn = {1469-493X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Specimen Handling/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Nasopharynx/virology ; *Sensitivity and Specificity ; Oropharynx/virology ; Viral Load ; COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing/methods ; COVID-19 Testing/methods ; Pharynx/virology ; Nasal Cavity/virology ; Nose/virology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sample collection is a key driver of accuracy in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Viral load may vary at different anatomical sampling sites and accuracy may be compromised by difficulties obtaining specimens and the expertise of the person taking the sample. It is important to optimise sampling accuracy within cost, safety and accessibility constraints.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the sensitivity of different sampling collection sites and methods for the detection of current SARS-CoV-2 infection with any molecular or antigen-based test.

SEARCH METHODS: Electronic searches of the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register and the COVID-19 Living Evidence Database from the University of Bern (which includes daily updates from PubMed and Embase and preprints from medRxiv and bioRxiv) were undertaken on 22 February 2022. We included independent evaluations from national reference laboratories, FIND and the Diagnostics Global Health website. We did not apply language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA: We included studies of symptomatic or asymptomatic people with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection undergoing testing. We included studies of any design that compared results from different sample types (anatomical location, operator, collection device) collected from the same participant within a 24-hour period.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Within a sample pair, we defined a reference sample and an index sample collected from the same participant within the same clinical encounter (within 24 hours). Where the sample comparison was different anatomical sites, the reference standard was defined as a nasopharyngeal or combined naso/oropharyngeal sample collected into the same sample container and the index sample as the alternative anatomical site. Where the sample comparison was concerned with differences in the sample collection method from the same site, we defined the reference sample as that closest to standard practice for that sample type. Where the sample pair comparison was concerned with differences in personnel collecting the sample, the more skilled or experienced operator was considered the reference sample. Two review authors independently assessed the risk of bias and applicability concerns using the QUADAS-2 and QUADAS-C checklists, tailored to this review. We present estimates of the difference in the sensitivity (reference sample (%) minus index sample sensitivity (%)) in a pair and as an average across studies for each index sampling method using forest plots and tables. We examined heterogeneity between studies according to population (age, symptom status) and index sample (time post-symptom onset, operator expertise, use of transport medium) characteristics.

MAIN RESULTS: This review includes 106 studies reporting 154 evaluations and 60,523 sample pair comparisons, of which 11,045 had SARS-CoV-2 infection. Ninety evaluations were of saliva samples, 37 nasal, seven oropharyngeal, six gargle, six oral and four combined nasal/oropharyngeal samples. Four evaluations were of the effect of operator expertise on the accuracy of three different sample types. The majority of included evaluations (146) used molecular tests, of which 140 used RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction). Eight evaluations were of nasal samples used with Ag-RDTs (rapid antigen tests). The majority of studies were conducted in Europe (35/106, 33%) or the USA (27%) and conducted in dedicated COVID-19 testing clinics or in ambulatory hospital settings (53%). Targeted screening or contact tracing accounted for only 4% of evaluations. Where reported, the majority of evaluations were of adults (91/154, 59%), 28 (18%) were in mixed populations with only seven (4%) in children. The median prevalence of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 was 23% (interquartile (IQR) 13%-40%). Risk of bias and applicability assessment were hampered by poor reporting in 77% and 65% of included studies, respectively. Risk of bias was low across all domains in only 3% of evaluations due to inappropriate inclusion or exclusion criteria, unclear recruitment, lack of blinding, nonrandomised sampling order or differences in testing kit within a sample pair. Sixty-eight percent of evaluation cohorts were judged as being at high or unclear applicability concern either due to inflation of the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in study populations by selectively including individuals with confirmed PCR-positive samples or because there was insufficient detail to allow replication of sample collection. When used with RT-PCR • There was no evidence of a difference in sensitivity between gargle and nasopharyngeal samples (on average -1 percentage points, 95% CI -5 to +2, based on 6 evaluations, 2138 sample pairs, of which 389 had SARS-CoV-2). • There was no evidence of a difference in sensitivity between saliva collection from the deep throat and nasopharyngeal samples (on average +10 percentage points, 95% CI -1 to +21, based on 2192 sample pairs, of which 730 had SARS-CoV-2). • There was evidence that saliva collection using spitting, drooling or salivating was on average -12 percentage points less sensitive (95% CI -16 to -8, based on 27,253 sample pairs, of which 4636 had SARS-CoV-2) compared to nasopharyngeal samples. We did not find any evidence of a difference in the sensitivity of saliva collected using spitting, drooling or salivating (sensitivity difference: range from -13 percentage points (spit) to -21 percentage points (salivate)). • Nasal samples (anterior and mid-turbinate collection combined) were, on average, 12 percentage points less sensitive compared to nasopharyngeal samples (95% CI -17 to -7), based on 9291 sample pairs, of which 1485 had SARS-CoV-2. We did not find any evidence of a difference in sensitivity between nasal samples collected from the mid-turbinates (3942 sample pairs) or from the anterior nares (8272 sample pairs). • There was evidence that oropharyngeal samples were, on average, 17 percentage points less sensitive than nasopharyngeal samples (95% CI -29 to -5), based on seven evaluations, 2522 sample pairs, of which 511 had SARS-CoV-2. A much smaller volume of evidence was available for combined nasal/oropharyngeal samples and oral samples. Age, symptom status and use of transport media do not appear to affect the sensitivity of saliva samples and nasal samples. When used with Ag-RDTs • There was no evidence of a difference in sensitivity between nasal samples compared to nasopharyngeal samples (sensitivity, on average, 0 percentage points -0.2 to +0.2, based on 3688 sample pairs, of which 535 had SARS-CoV-2).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: When used with RT-PCR, there is no evidence for a difference in sensitivity of self-collected gargle or deep-throat saliva samples compared to nasopharyngeal samples collected by healthcare workers when used with RT-PCR. Use of these alternative, self-collected sample types has the potential to reduce cost and discomfort and improve the safety of sampling by reducing risk of transmission from aerosol spread which occurs as a result of coughing and gagging during the nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal sample collection procedure. This may, in turn, improve access to and uptake of testing. Other types of saliva, nasal, oral and oropharyngeal samples are, on average, less sensitive compared to healthcare worker-collected nasopharyngeal samples, and it is unlikely that sensitivities of this magnitude would be acceptable for confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 infection with RT-PCR. When used with Ag-RDTs, there is no evidence of a difference in sensitivity between nasal samples and healthcare worker-collected nasopharyngeal samples for detecting SARS-CoV-2. The implications of this for self-testing are unclear as evaluations did not report whether nasal samples were self-collected or collected by healthcare workers. Further research is needed in asymptomatic individuals, children and in Ag-RDTs, and to investigate the effect of operator expertise on accuracy. Quality assessment of the evidence base underpinning these conclusions was restricted by poor reporting. There is a need for further high-quality studies, adhering to reporting standards for test accuracy studies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*Specimen Handling/methods
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Nasopharynx/virology
*Sensitivity and Specificity
Oropharynx/virology
Viral Load
COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing/methods
COVID-19 Testing/methods
Pharynx/virology
Nasal Cavity/virology
Nose/virology

@article {pmid39679561,
year = {2024},
author = {Wang, L and Tang, R and Wang, W and Bu, L and Sun, J and Fu, Y and Li, M and Yi, Z},
title = {Recent developments in isothermal amplification technology for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Analytical methods : advancing methods and applications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d4ay01106f},
pmid = {39679561},
issn = {1759-9679},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has spread globally, posing a significant threat to human health. Rapid and accurate detection of infectious disease pathogens is of crucial practical significance for early screening, timely intervention, and outbreak prevention. However, conventional diagnostic methods are increasingly unable to meet clinical demands. Recently developed isothermal analysis methods offer mild reaction conditions and reduce dependence on specialized instruments. These convenient, fast, and reliable methods show great promise for diagnosing infectious pathogens, especially for on-site detection in areas without laboratories or with limited resources. Among them, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), which integrate various widely used detection techniques, stand out as rapidly advancing and relatively mature isothermal nucleic acid amplification technologies. This review outlines several representative isothermal amplification technologies and associated detection methods. We summarize the latest advancements in LAMP and RPA technologies for the rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 and discuss the future prospects of isothermal amplification in diversified testing.},
}

@article {pmid39679431,
year = {2024},
author = {Patel, PM and Green, M and Tram, J and Wang, E and Murphy, MZ and Abd-Elsayed, A and Chakravarthy, K},
title = {Beyond the Pain Management Clinic: The Role of AI-Integrated Remote Patient Monitoring in Chronic Disease Management - A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of pain research},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {4223-4237},
pmid = {39679431},
issn = {1178-7090},
abstract = {Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) stands as a pivotal advancement in patient-centered care, offering substantial improvements in the diagnosis, management, and outcomes of chronic conditions. Through the utilization of advanced digital technologies, RPM facilitates the real-time collection and transmission of critical health data, enabling clinicians to make prompt, informed decisions that enhance patient safety and care, particularly within home environments. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed studies to evaluate the transformative role of RPM, particularly its integration with Artificial Intelligence (AI), in managing chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, and chronic pain. By highlighting advancements in disease-specific RPM applications, the review underscores RPM's versatility and its ability to empower patients through education, shared decision-making, and adherence to therapeutic regimens. The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the importance of RPM in ensuring healthcare continuity during systemic disruptions. The integration of AI with RPM has refined these capabilities, enabling personalized, real-time data collection and analysis. While chronic pain management serves as a focal area, the review also examines AI-enhanced RPM applications in cardiology and diabetes. AI-driven systems, such as the NXTSTIM EcoAI™, are highlighted for their potential to revolutionize treatment approaches through continuous monitoring, timely interventions, and improved patient outcomes. This progression from basic wearable devices to sophisticated, AI-driven systems underscores RPM's ability to redefine healthcare delivery, reduce system burdens, and enhance quality of life across multiple chronic conditions. Looking forward, AI-integrated RPM is expected to further refine disease management strategies by offering more personalized and effective treatments. The broader implications, including its applicability to cardiology, diabetes, and pain management, showcase RPM's capacity to deliver automated, data-driven care, thereby reducing healthcare burdens while enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.},
}

@article {pmid39679430,
year = {2024},
author = {Ruan, QZ and Pak, DJ and Gulati, A and Dominguez, M and Diwan, S and Hasoon, J and Deer, TR and Yong, RJ and Albilali, A and Macone, A and Ashina, S and Robinson, CL},
title = {Scoping Review: The Effects of Interrupted Onabotulinumtoxin A Treatment for Chronic Migraine Prevention During the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of pain research},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {4163-4176},
pmid = {39679430},
issn = {1178-7090},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To systematically examine the literature on the clinical consequences of inadvertent delays in scheduled onabotulinumtoxin A (OTA) therapy for chronic migraine during the COVID-19 pandemic and assess recommendations when access to OTA is limited.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic was unprecedented in its impact on the global medical community. Most healthcare institutions in the United States (US) and the world had begun significantly limiting elective procedures, undermining management of many debilitating chronic conditions. OTA injections, were similarly involuntarily postponed, leading to significant setbacks in symptom control.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on databases of Medline and Embase with search timeframe defined as the point of database inception to March 1st, 2024, and the search was performed on March 2nd, 2024. The search strategy was independently formulated by two authors (QR and CR) and was reviewed and approved by all authors of the article after appropriate amendments.

RESULTS: A total of nine articles met the defined inclusion criteria. They collectively demonstrated marked delays in OTA treatment with decline in migraine symptom control measured in the form of migraine intensity, frequency, as well as patient satisfaction in disease management. Quality of care in the form of follow-ups also appeared compromised. Alternative strategies of telemedicine and the administration of calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies (CGRP mAb) were adopted in place of conventional treatment.

CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic had caused marked clinical deterioration in the migraine patient populations across US, Europe, and the Middle East. Strategies employed to circumvent this limitation included the adoption of remote consultation via telemedicine as well as the use of pharmacological agents such as CGRP antagonists. In the event of a reoccurrence of a worldwide pandemic, strategies should be implemented to prevent the cessation of needed treatment for those suffering from chronic migraine.},
}

@article {pmid39678987,
year = {2024},
author = {Sanyaolu, A and Marinkovic, A and Prakash, S and Balendra, V and Hamdy, K and Haider, N and Abbasi, AF and Hosein, Z and Younis, K and Smith, S and Badaru, O and Izurieta, R},
title = {Impact of Prolonged SARS-CoV-2 Viral Shedding on COVID-19 Disease Outcome and Viral Dynamics.},
journal = {Indian journal of microbiology},
volume = {64},
number = {4},
pages = {1416-1424},
pmid = {39678987},
issn = {0046-8991},
abstract = {This article aimed to review the current literature on the impact of continuous shedding of the COVID-19 virus in infected patients in relation to disease outcome variables and viral dynamics. Electronic databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and MedlinePlus were searched using relevant keywords, restricting the selection to thirty-two peer-reviewed articles and four gray literatures from the WHO websites. Findings from this study showed that several variables such as sex, age, immune status, treatments, and vaccines were found to affect the outcomes associated with the COVID-19 virus shedding. These findings highlight the need for further research using longitudinal whole-genome sequencing of the virus and its variants to increase the understanding.},
}

@article {pmid39678865,
year = {2024},
author = {Dai, Y and Jiang, H},
title = {Family-centered care: addressing challenges and implementing countermeasures in response to novel coronavirus pneumonia prevention and control-a narrative review.},
journal = {Journal of thoracic disease},
volume = {16},
number = {11},
pages = {8014-8025},
pmid = {39678865},
issn = {2072-1439},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Family-centered care (FCC) is a mutually beneficial healthcare approach focusing on collaborative planning, delivery, and evaluation involving healthcare providers, patients, and families. The FCC approach, despite its widespread application in diverse medical contexts, encounters significant barriers in its integration into clinical practice, particularly in the management of novel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP). This review aims to explore the current state of research on and factors influencing the family-centered clinical model of care, and to reveal the challenges and coping strategies encountered by this model in NCP-like health crises. This review also aims to provide recommendations on how to transform the family-centered clinical care model to effectively respond to declared health emergencies.

METHODS: We searched six databases for relevant published literature up to August 30, 2024. In addition, reference lists of all selected publications were used to identify additional eligible studies. One researcher independently selected the literature and the results were checked by a senior researcher; these results were presented and discussed among the researchers to resolve differences and reach consensus.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: Seventy-three articles published from January 01, 1900 to August 30, 2024 met the inclusion criteria. The literature included the conceptual and historical development of FCC in care, areas of application of FCC, assessment and measurement tools for FCC, economic benefits of FCC, gaps in clinical implementation, impact of NCP on FCC, and coping strategies to promote FCC.

CONCLUSIONS: The evolution of the FCC marks a transition from the authoritarian approach of traditional healthcare to a more humane, collaborative model. The emergence of the NCP model for prevention and control during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic posed a significant challenge to the implementation and development of the FCC. The integration of telehealth models with FCC is seen as the future of FCC.},
}

@article {pmid39678714,
year = {2024},
author = {Gonçalves Leite Rocco, P and Reategui-Rivera, CM and Finkelstein, J},
title = {Exercise Interventions in the Management of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of multidisciplinary healthcare},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {5867-5885},
pmid = {39678714},
issn = {1178-2390},
support = {R33 HL143317/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This review aims to identify the exercise rehabilitation approaches used for patients with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).

METHODS: An electronic literature search was conducted using the PubMed database, covering January 2005 to October 2023. Studies were included if they reported an exercise rehabilitation intervention for POTS patients and resulting clinical outcomes. Eligible study designs included randomized and non-randomized clinical trials and case reports.

RESULTS: Initially, 34 publications were identified, but only 14 met the criteria for inclusion. After a thorough analysis, 7 studies were included in this scoping review. The majority of the studies stated aerobic exercise training significantly improves symptoms in most of the patients with orthostatic intolerance, reduces the frequency of syncope, enhances patient quality of life, and improves autonomic balance as assessed by heart rate variability analysis and cardiorespiratory endurance. Short-term exercise training was found to boost physical fitness and cardiorespiratory responses in patients with POTS. Therefore, exercise training can serve as an effective non-pharmacological therapy for managing POTS.

CONCLUSION: This scoping review identified different approaches used for exercise rehabilitation in POTS patients. However, more research is needed to identify the optimal exercise rehabilitation program for this patient population.},
}

@article {pmid39678231,
year = {2024},
author = {Khan, MWZ and Ahmad, M and Qudrat, S and Afridi, F and Khan, NA and Afridi, Z and Fahad, and Azeem, T and Ikram, J},
title = {Vagal nerve stimulation for the management of long COVID symptoms.},
journal = {Infectious medicine},
volume = {3},
number = {4},
pages = {100149},
pmid = {39678231},
issn = {2772-431X},
abstract = {This review investigates the therapeutic potential of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) in managing long COVID, a condition marked by persistent symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Long COVID manifests as ongoing fatigue, cognitive impairment, and autonomic dysfunction, hypothesized to arise from sustained inflammatory and neurological dysregulation. The vagus nerve, central to modulating systemic inflammation and autonomic homeostasis, represents a promising therapeutic target for symptom alleviation through VNS. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify studies evaluating VNS in the context of long COVID. Preliminary evidence from small-scale pilot studies suggests VNS may attenuate systemic inflammation through activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP), thus restoring autonomic balance and ameliorating symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and anxiety. In targeting the inflammatory cascade that underlies both acute COVID-19 pathophysiology and its prolonged sequelae, VNS holds potential as an innovative intervention for persistent post-viral symptoms. While these initial findings indicate promise, current data remain limited in scope and robustness, underscoring the need for larger, controlled trials to validate the efficacy and mechanisms of VNS in long COVID management. Establishing a clearer understanding of VNS's impact on inflammation and autonomic regulation in this context is crucial to inform clinical guidelines and therapeutic strategies for long COVID, potentially offering a targeted approach for mitigating this disabling condition.},
}

@article {pmid39677882,
year = {2024},
author = {Manzo, C and Isetta, M and Castagna, A},
title = {Infective agents and polymyalgia rheumatica: key discussion points emerging from a narrative review of published literature.},
journal = {Reumatologia},
volume = {62},
number = {5},
pages = {360-367},
pmid = {39677882},
issn = {0034-6233},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aetiology of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is unknown. Recently, reports on cases of PMR following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have revived the role of infection as an aetiological or triggering factor. It is estimated that patients with PMR have manifestations of giant cell arteritis (GCA) in < 20% of cases. To date, little is known on the potential role of infectious agents in facilitating this association. Given this background, we performed a review of published literature. Our first aim was to review and discuss the relationship between PMR and infective agents. Secondly, we compared data of PMR-only patients with PMR and overlapping GCA to seek any commonalities or differences regarding the type of infectious agent in these two subgroups.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a non-systematic literature search on Embase and Medline (COVID interface) with the following search terms: "polymyalgia rheumatica" AND "infections" OR "infectious agents", both MESH headings and free-text (in each language they were written). Each paper's reference list was scanned for additional publications meeting this study's aim. When papers reported data partially presented in previous articles, we referred to the most recent published data. Abstracts submitted at conferences or from non-peer-reviewed sources were not included. Polymyalgia rheumatica following vaccinations was an additional exclusion criterion.

RESULTS: Several infectious agents have been held responsible for PMR. However, no definite causal link has been identified so far. According to our review, the search for a specific infectious agent, however intriguing, appears to be stagnating. Genetic background and epigenetic regulation probably play a key role. However, topical studies are lacking. Polymyalgia rheumatica as an adverse event following immunization should be kept methodologically distinct from PMR following an acute infection, as the adjuvants in the vaccine can make a significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS: Finally, some infectious agents are able to replicate in human arteries or have an endothelium tropism. Whilst these can theoretically trigger GCA, their role in isolated PMR seems minimal.},
}

@article {pmid39677881,
year = {2024},
author = {Boyarchuk, O and Savkiv, D},
title = {Attempts to identify the molecular cause of autoinflammatory recurrent fever.},
journal = {Reumatologia},
volume = {62},
number = {5},
pages = {381-388},
pmid = {39677881},
issn = {0034-6233},
abstract = {Systemic autoinflammatory diseases caused by dysregulation of the innate immunity are a known cause of recurrent fevers. We present the molecular diagnosis results of 12 children with recurrent fever, analyzing the correlation between molecular findings and clinical symptoms. No pathogenic variants confirming autoinflammatory disease were found. One child was diagnosed with SRP54 deficiency, linked to congenital neutropenia with a cyclic pattern. Variants of uncertain significance were found in 6 patients in genes associated with autoinflammatory disorders, though two lacked clinical correlation. Variants of uncertain significance in the NLRC4 gene were detected in 2 patients with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome, in the PLSG2 gene in 1 child with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and in the MEFV gene in 1 patient with syndrome of uncertain recurrent fever. COVID-19 was identified as a triggering factor in 54.5% of cases. Further research is needed to clarify the role of genetic variants and environmental factors in recurrent fevers.},
}

@article {pmid39677392,
year = {2024},
author = {Fanella, S and Bitnun, A and Barton, M and Sauvé, L},
title = {Le diagnostic et la prise en charge de la syphilis congénitale : ne laisser passer aucune occasion.},
journal = {Paediatrics & child health},
volume = {29},
number = {7},
pages = {463-479},
pmid = {39677392},
issn = {1205-7088},
abstract = {La syphilis congénitale peut provoquer un arrêt de grossesse et une morbidité importante chez les nouveau-nés. L'épidémie actuelle de syphilis congénitale au Canada (particulièrement dans l'Ouest canadien) est une urgence sanitaire évitable. Les taux font foi d'un manque de contrôle de la syphilis dans la communauté et d'un manque de ressources de santé publique pour éviter une propagation qui s'est amorcée avant la pandémie de COVID-19. Les facteurs de risque incluent l'absence de soins prénatals, l'utilisation de méthamphétamines et d'autres substances psychoactives et l'instabilité du logement. Le dépistage, le traitement et le suivi pendant la grossesse, y compris chez les partenaires, constituent la pierre angulaire de la prévention. Les cliniciens qui s'occupent de nouveau-nés ont besoin d'examiner les aspects du traitement de la mère, le risque de réinfection, les résultats de la sérologie appariée de la syphilis chez la mère et le nouveau-né, de même que l'évaluation clinique du nouveau-né. Une évaluation complète du risque orientera la prise en charge et le suivi efficaces des nouveau-nés exposés à la syphilis in utero.},
}

@article {pmid39677391,
year = {2024},
author = {Fanella, S and Bitnun, A and Barton, M and Sauvé, L},
title = {Diagnosis and management of congenital syphilis: Avoiding missed opportunities.},
journal = {Paediatrics & child health},
volume = {29},
number = {7},
pages = {463-479},
pmid = {39677391},
issn = {1205-7088},
abstract = {Congenital syphilis can result in pregnancy loss and substantial morbidity in newborns. The current epidemic of congenital syphilis in Canada (especially Western Canada) is a preventable public health emergency. Rates indicate a lack of control of syphilis within the community and insufficient public health resources to prevent spread that predate the COVID-19 pandemic. Risk factors include lack of prenatal care, methamphetamine and other substance use, and unstable housing. The cornerstone of prevention is identification, treatment, and follow-up during pregnancy, including of partners. Clinicians caring for newborns need to consider aspects of maternal treatment, reinfection risk, the results of paired maternal and infant syphilis serology, and infant clinical assessment. A complete risk assessment will guide effective management and follow-up of infants exposed in utero to syphilis.},
}

@article {pmid39676399,
year = {2024},
author = {Eggen, MB and LaPreze, D and Karimi, S and Creel, L and Little, B and Ibrahim, BB},
title = {Factors Associated With First-Trimester Prenatal Care Initiation In The United States: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of midwifery & women's health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jmwh.13724},
pmid = {39676399},
issn = {1542-2011},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: First-trimester prenatal care is an important component of quality care during pregnancy and is associated with improved perinatal outcomes. Despite its importance, many pregnant people delay prenatal care initiation or receive no prenatal care. This scoping review assessed multilevel factors associated with first-trimester prenatal care initiation in the United States among studies that included a measure of prenatal care timing, using the socioecological model as an organizing framework.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines for reporting. PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, CINAHL, and Social Sciences Abstracts were searched for peer-reviewed papers that focused on facilitators and barriers associated with first-trimester prenatal care initiation, were written in English, included a measure of prenatal care timing, and used data gathered after 2014.

RESULTS: Of the 1469 articles identified in the search, 19 met inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Articles described intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental-level barriers and facilitators of first-trimester prenatal care initiation including Medicaid expansion, immigration status, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Significant heterogeneity in the measurement of prenatal care timing existed across studies.

DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest that, although environmental domain factors have been impactful toward increasing population-level rates of first-trimester prenatal care initiation, benefits have not been equitable across sociodemographic factors. Increasing the proportion of pregnant people who initiate first-trimester prenatal care will require comprehensive efforts that address sociodemographic and contextual factors, including persistent structural and systemic barriers that cause and widen health disparities.},
}

@article {pmid39462894,
year = {2025},
author = {McKee, M and Rosenbacke, R and Stuckler, D},
title = {The power of artificial intelligence for managing pandemics: A primer for public health professionals.},
journal = {The International journal of health planning and management},
volume = {40},
number = {1},
pages = {257-270},
doi = {10.1002/hpm.3864},
pmid = {39462894},
issn = {1099-1751},
support = {//European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies/ ; },
mesh = {*Artificial Intelligence ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; Public Health/methods ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) applications are complex and rapidly evolving, and thus often poorly understood, but have potentially profound implications for public health. We offer a primer for public health professionals that explains some of the key concepts involved and examines how these applications might be used in the response to a future pandemic. They include early outbreak detection, predictive modelling, healthcare management, risk communication, and health surveillance. Artificial intelligence applications, especially predictive algorithms, have the ability to anticipate outbreaks by integrating diverse datasets such as social media, meteorological data, and mobile phone movement data. Artificial intelligence-powered tools can also optimise healthcare delivery by managing the allocation of resources and reducing healthcare workers' exposure to risks. In resource distribution, they can anticipate demand and optimise logistics, while AI-driven robots can minimise physical contact in healthcare settings. Artificial intelligence also shows promise in supporting public health decision-making by simulating the social and economic impacts of different policy interventions. These simulations help policymakers evaluate complex scenarios such as lockdowns and resource allocation. Additionally, it can enhance public health messaging, with AI-generated health communications shown to be more effective than human-generated messages in some cases. However, there are risks, such as privacy concerns, biases in models, and the potential for 'false confirmations', where AI reinforces incorrect decisions. Despite these challenges, we argue that AI will become increasingly important in public health crises, but only if integrated thoughtfully into existing systems and processes.},
}

*Artificial Intelligence
Humans
*Pandemics
Public Health/methods
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control

@article {pmid39676169,
year = {2024},
author = {Xu, JQ and Zhang, WY and Fu, JJ and Fang, XZ and Gao, CG and Li, C and Yao, L and Li, QL and Yang, XB and Ren, LH and Shu, HQ and Peng, K and Wu, Y and Zhang, DY and Qiu, Y and Zhou, X and Yao, YM and Shang, Y},
title = {Viral sepsis: diagnosis, clinical features, pathogenesis, and clinical considerations.},
journal = {Military Medical Research},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {78},
pmid = {39676169},
issn = {2054-9369},
support = {82372176//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82002026//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82272217//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 81971818//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Sepsis/physiopathology/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/pathogenicity ; Receptors, Pattern Recognition ; },
abstract = {Sepsis, characterized as life-threatening organ dysfunction resulting from dysregulated host responses to infection, remains a significant challenge in clinical practice. Despite advancements in understanding host-bacterial interactions, molecular responses, and therapeutic approaches, the mortality rate associated with sepsis has consistently ranged between 10 and 16%. This elevated mortality highlights critical gaps in our comprehension of sepsis etiology. Traditionally linked to bacterial and fungal pathogens, recent outbreaks of acute viral infections, including Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), influenza virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), among other regional epidemics, have underscored the role of viral pathogenesis in sepsis, particularly when critically ill patients exhibit classic symptoms indicative of sepsis. However, many cases of viral-induced sepsis are frequently underdiagnosed because standard evaluations typically exclude viral panels. Moreover, these viruses not only activate conventional pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs) but also initiate primary antiviral pathways such as cyclic guanosine monophosphate adenosine monophosphate (GMP-AMP) synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling and interferon response mechanisms. Such activations lead to cellular stress, metabolic disturbances, and extensive cell damage that exacerbate tissue injury while leading to a spectrum of clinical manifestations. This complexity poses substantial challenges for the clinical management of affected cases. In this review, we elucidate the definition and diagnosis criteria for viral sepsis while synthesizing current knowledge regarding its etiology, epidemiology, and pathophysiology, molecular mechanisms involved therein as well as their impact on immune-mediated organ damage. Additionally, we discuss clinical considerations related to both existing therapies and advanced treatment interventions, aiming to enhance the comprehensive understanding surrounding viral sepsis.},
}

Humans
*Sepsis/physiopathology/diagnosis
*COVID-19/diagnosis/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/pathogenicity
Receptors, Pattern Recognition

@article {pmid39675687,
year = {2024},
author = {Zong, NC and Huang, K and Yang, X and Cai, H},
title = {Expand the success of routine screening to reduce aortic aneurysm mortality: progress interpretation and new fronts.},
journal = {Trends in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tcm.2024.12.004},
pmid = {39675687},
issn = {1873-2615},
abstract = {Aortic aneurysm is a leading cause of death across the world. Many victicms carry it without knowing. Ruputre of aortic aneurysms leads to devastating sudden death. This brings trauma to families and our society. Based upon sound results out of several cohort studies, US Preventative Services Task Force (USPST) crafted the 1st nationwide abdominal aorta aneurysm (AAA) screening program in 2005. It was renewed and expanded in each of the subsequent revisions in 2014 and 2019. UK and Sweden estalished their own programs as well. Since then, a significant decline in AAA prevalence and mortality has been observed. Two decades into the practice, the state of the art on diagonstics, surgical approaches, and pharmacological options have drastically changed. Patients previously ineligible for treatment or inconclusive on diagnostics now have valid options. The screening program is on the verge for a bold expansion. In this review, we summarize the chroncles leading to the inception of the screening programs, progress in interpretation after implementation including gains, gaps and controversies, advents of new technologies and approaches, new fronts facing us, as well as priorities to be addressed in future phases. Particularly, screening asssys with a clinically tested biomarker, tetrahydrobiopterin (H4B), enables unpresended accessibility, consistency and throughput to accommodate the needs of a larger population. Furthermore, patients with AAAs at size below the eligibility threhold for surgical intervention (e.g., < 5.5 cm) can be treated with novel oral medications. Confronting factors such as changing demographics and COVID-19 aftermath are putting up new challenges. Nevertheless, running a program at national scale demands both unwavering commitment and agile fine-tuning. Technical innovation will be an indispensable chapter of its continued success. The burden of aortic aneurysm-led sudden death is too heavy for any family and the society to bear; it is time to step up our resolve with additional capacities as discussed in the present review.},
}

@article {pmid39675368,
year = {2024},
author = {Rojek, A and Fieggen, J and Apiyo, P and Caluwaerts, S and Fowler, RA and Kaleebu, P and Kojan, R and Lado, M and Lambe, T and Dunning, J and Horby, P},
title = {Ebola disease: bridging scientific discoveries and clinical application.},
journal = {The Lancet. Infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S1473-3099(24)00673-X},
pmid = {39675368},
issn = {1474-4457},
abstract = {The west Africa Ebola disease epidemic (2014-16) marked a historic change of course for patient care during emerging infectious disease outbreaks. The epidemic response was a failure in many ways-a slow, cumbersome, and disjointed effort by a global architecture that was not fit for purpose for a rapidly spreading outbreak. In the most affected countries, health-care workers and other responders felt helpless-dealing with an overwhelming number of patients but with few, if any, tools at their disposal to provide high-quality care. These inadequacies, however, led to attention and innovation. The decade since then has seen remarkable achievements in clinical care for Ebola disease, including the approval of the first vaccines and treatments. In this paper, the first in a two-part Series, we reflect on this progress and provide expert summary of the modern landscape of Ebola disease, highlighting the priorities and ongoing activities aimed at further improving patient survival and wellbeing in the years ahead.},
}

@article {pmid39675234,
year = {2024},
author = {Arslan, Z},
title = {Microchimerism: The mystery of multiple DNA and its implications in forensic sciences.},
journal = {Forensic science international},
volume = {367},
number = {},
pages = {112345},
doi = {10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112345},
pmid = {39675234},
issn = {1872-6283},
abstract = {Microchimerism (MC) refers to the presence of small amounts of foreign cells or DNA in the tissues or circulation of an individual. It generally occurs through mother-fetus interaction, twin pregnancies, and intergenerational transmission. MC is influenced by genetic and environmental factors such as toxic conditions, immunological suppression, and various diseases (influenza, COVID-19, etc.). Progenitor cells transferred from the fetus to the mother through fetal MC are known to differentiate into neurons in the maternal brain. Although the relationship between these cells and the brain is not fully understood, it is thought that they may play a role in the emergence of some mental illnesses. The long-term presence of microchimeric cells in the body by differentiating into various cell types such as the brain, heart, bone, liver, and lung can lead to the presence of two or more DNA sets in an individual. This can lead to confusion in forensic identification and sex determination processes. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of the definition, transmission pathways, detection duration in the human body, associated diseases, analytical detection techniques, and the importance of MC in forensic sciences. In this context, it is aimed to draw attention to the potential dangers of MC and contribute to the justice system. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the need for scientific research on this topic by creating a starting point for future research in the field of MC.},
}

@article {pmid39675153,
year = {2024},
author = {Fischer, A and Peretti-Watel, P and Ward, J},
title = {Vaccine policies in France and Europe.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {92},
number = {},
pages = {102513},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2024.102513},
pmid = {39675153},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {This review outlines the outcome of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in France and assesses the respective roles of information and coercion in its overall success. These data are then put into perspective of the evolution of vaccination acceptance in France.},
}

@article {pmid39675123,
year = {2024},
author = {Shrestha, BK and Sujakhu, E and Karale, S and Telagarapu, VML},
title = {COVID-19 in patients with multiple sclerosis-A narrative review.},
journal = {Multiple sclerosis and related disorders},
volume = {93},
number = {},
pages = {106221},
doi = {10.1016/j.msard.2024.106221},
pmid = {39675123},
issn = {2211-0356},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurodegenerative disease characterized by immune dysregulation, affecting over 2.5 million people worldwide. Interestingly, COVID-19 infection can cause neurodegeneration through demyelination similar to that of MS, and COVID-19 infection can lead to long-term neurological sequelae, post-COVID-19 neurological syndrome. These overlapping neurological mechanisms suggest that patients with MS (PwMS) may have a unique and potentially more complex relationship with COVID-19.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can enter the central nervous system via the olfactory nerve or through interactions with angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptors in the blood-brain barrier, potentially initiating or enhancing neurodegenerative processes through demyelination. The risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among PwMS is similar to that of the general population; however, PwMS with higher Expanded Disability Status Scale scores, longer MS duration, or progressive forms of MS are at an increased risk for developing severe COVID-19 outcomes. Most disease-modifying therapies (DMT), such as interferon, glatiramer, teriflunomide, and cladribine, do not appear to affect the risk of COVID-19 infection, the severity of COVID-19 illness, or the response to COVID-19 vaccines. As a result, these therapies should be continued during COVID-19 infection in PwMS. Rituximab, however, has been shown to increase the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. For managing symptomatic COVID-19 infection in PwMS, remdesivir and neutralizing monoclonal antibodies are shown to be effective. COVID-19-associated cytokine release syndrome can be managed with corticosteroids. Importantly, COVID-19 infection does not increase susceptibility to MS relapses or exacerbate the progression of MS symptoms. Furthermore, COVID-19 vaccination is encouraged for all MS patients, particularly those at greater risk of severe outcomes, as it does not trigger relapses, exacerbate MS symptoms, or diminish the efficacy of DMT. Despite these findings, high-quality evidence remains lacking to fully establish the relationship between COVID-19 and MS, highlighting the need for further research in this area.},
}

@article {pmid39675069,
year = {2024},
author = {Lai, Z and Wang, F and Cui, Y and Li, Z and Lin, J},
title = {Innovative strategies for enhancing AuNP-based point-of-care diagnostics: Focus on coronavirus detection.},
journal = {Talanta},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {127362},
doi = {10.1016/j.talanta.2024.127362},
pmid = {39675069},
issn = {1873-3573},
abstract = {Highly pathogenic coronaviruses have consistently threatened humanity, encompassing SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and others. Swift detection and accurate diagnosis play a crucial role in promptly identifying high-risk populations, enabling timely intervention, and effectively breaking the transmission chain to reduce casualties. However, the diagnostic "gold standard" reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) failed to meet the overwhelming demand during the pandemic due to insufficient equipment and trained personnel, impeding the effective control of viral spread. Undoubtedly, there is an urgent need for the development of convenient, rapid, and sensitive point-of-care (POC) diagnostic technology. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) satisfy the substantial market demand for biosensors owing to their exceptional optical properties and stability. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the potential advantages of AuNPs in visual solution colorimetry and lateral flow assays (LFAs) for the diagnosis of COVID-19. We delve into the techniques for enhancing LFA signals, with the goal of increasing both detection sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, we include the application of smartphones for unbiased and objective interpretation of results. The examples presented in this review are anticipated to inspire researchers in designing AuNPs biosensors to address current and potential outbreaks of infectious diseases in the future.},
}

@article {pmid39674825,
year = {2024},
author = {Stannard, R and Lambert, PC and Lyratzopoulos, G and Andersson, TM and Khan, S and Rutherford, MJ},
title = {The long-lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on population-based cancer survival: what are the implications for data analysis?.},
journal = {British journal of cancer},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39674825},
issn = {1532-1827},
support = {NIHR303007//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; NIHR206132//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; NIHR206132//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; NIHR206132//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; },
abstract = {Monitoring trends of cancer incidence, mortality and survival is vital for the planning and delivery of health services, and the evaluation of diagnostics and treatment at the population level. Furthermore, comparisons are often made between population subgroups to explore inequalities in outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic routine delivery of health services were severely disrupted. Resources were redeployed to COVID-19 services and patient risk of COVID-19 infection required serious consideration. Cancer screening services were paused, the availability of healthcare providers was reduced and, in some cases, patients faced difficulty in accessing optimal treatment in a timely manner. Given these major disruptions, much care should be taken when interpreting changes in cancer survival estimates during this period. The impact on cancer incidence and mortality statistics that have already been reported in some jurisdictions should drive further thought on the corresponding impact on cancer survival, and whether any differences observed are real, artificial or a combination of the two. We discuss the likely impact on key cancer metrics, the likely implications for the analysis of cancer registration data impacted by the pandemic and the implications for comparative analyses between population groups and other risk factor groups when using data spanning the pandemic period.},
}

@article {pmid39673711,
year = {2025},
author = {Efe, C and Uzun, S and Matter, MS and Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli, B},
title = {Autoimmune-Like Hepatitis Related to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: Towards a Clearer Definition.},
journal = {Liver international : official journal of the International Association for the Study of the Liver},
volume = {45},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/liv.16209},
pmid = {39673711},
issn = {1478-3231},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology ; *Hepatitis, Autoimmune/etiology/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/etiology/immunology ; Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; Liver Transplantation/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Vaccines are the most effective tool against COVID-19 and are generally safe. Very rare and heterogeneous cases of acute liver injury associated to all types of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have been reported, mostly with autoimmune features. Epidemiological studies used heterogeneous diagnostic criteria and included different populations. Immunological studies in selected cases of acute liver injury linked to mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines suggest that it has a unique pathophysiology, the vaccine-encoded spike protein playing a central role in triggering the aberrant immune response. In most series, liver injury was observed more often following the second vaccine dose. Latency from vaccination to the diagnosis of hepatitis was 1-147 days after the last vaccine dose. Raised immunoglobulin G levels and positive anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibodies are frequent. The vast majority of reported cases have been treated with corticosteroids, mostly associated with azathioprine. Outcome is generally favourable, but cases requiring liver transplantation or causing death have been reported. The heterogeneous clinical entity of acute liver injury linked to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines includes patients requiring long-term immunosuppression, similarly to autoimmune hepatitis, and patients with self-limiting liver damage, possibly representing a unique form of autoimmune-like hepatitis, which we suggest being referred to as SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-associated liver injury (SVALI). Further studies are needed to investigate the pathogenic mechanisms related to the immune response to the spike viral protein in the liver.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology
*Hepatitis, Autoimmune/etiology/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/etiology/immunology
Immunosuppressive Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Vaccination/adverse effects
Liver Transplantation/adverse effects

@article {pmid39673667,
year = {2024},
author = {Labowsky, M and Harnke, B},
title = {The Set up and the Triggers: An Update on the Risk Factors for Giant Cell Arteritis.},
journal = {Current neurology and neuroscience reports},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {11},
pmid = {39673667},
issn = {1534-6293},
mesh = {*Giant Cell Arteritis/epidemiology ; Humans ; Risk Factors ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Polymyalgia Rheumatica/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To describe recent research relevant to factors which predispose to giant cell arteritis (GCA) and those which trigger its manifestation, with particular emphasis on the more recent and controversial associations (COVID-19, vaccination, novel medications) which have changed the medical landscape and perhaps GCA prevalence.

RECENT FINDINGS: GCA remains more prevalent in Caucasians but nevertheless affects other racial groups. Certain HLA haplotypes (i.e. DRB1*04) incurs risk of GCA. Polymyalgia rheumatica remains a strong association, and recent evidence also associates GCA with hematologic malignancy. COVID-19 infection may trigger GCA, in addition to vaccination (particularly the COVID-19 vaccine) and reactivated VZV infection, though the latter may be related to a common trigger. PD1-inhibitors may be associated with GCA. Previously establish patterns in geography and latitude are supported. A seasonal pattern of GCA in the summer/spring months is suggested but not proven. Controversy regarding GCA risk factors exists, as well as to whether the overall prevalence of GCA is rising. Given the growing aging population, the total number of cases of GCA will certainly increase, a challenge to which that our healthcare system must continue to rise to meet.},
}

*Giant Cell Arteritis/epidemiology
Humans
Risk Factors
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
COVID-19 Vaccines
Polymyalgia Rheumatica/epidemiology

@article {pmid39670953,
year = {2024},
author = {Greenall-Ota, J and Yapa, HM and Fox, GJ and Negin, J},
title = {Qualitative Evaluation of mHealth Implementation for Infectious Disease Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Narrative Review.},
journal = {JMIR mHealth and uHealth},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e55189},
pmid = {39670953},
issn = {2291-5222},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/standards/statistics & numerical data ; *Developing Countries ; *Qualitative Research ; Communicable Diseases/therapy ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have the potential to improve health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by aiding health workers to strengthen service delivery, as well as by helping patients and communities manage and prevent diseases. It is crucial to understand how best to implement mHealth within already burdened health services to maximally improve health outcomes and sustain the intervention in LMICs.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to identify key barriers to and facilitators of the implementation of mHealth interventions for infectious diseases in LMICs, drawing on a health systems analysis framework.

METHODS: We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) checklist to select qualitative or mixed methods studies reporting on determinants of already implemented infectious disease mHealth interventions in LMICs. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, the Social Sciences Citation Index, and Global Health. We extracted characteristics of the mHealth interventions and implementation experiences, then conducted an analysis of determinants using the Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases framework.

RESULTS: We identified 10,494 titles for screening, among which 20 studies met our eligibility criteria. Of these, 9 studies examined mHealth smartphone apps and 11 examined SMS text messaging interventions. The interventions addressed HIV (n=7), malaria (n=4), tuberculosis (n=4), pneumonia (n=2), dengue (n=1), human papillomavirus (n=1), COVID-19 (n=1), and respiratory illnesses or childhood infectious diseases (n=2), with 2 studies addressing multiple diseases. Within these studies, 10 interventions were intended for use by health workers and the remainder targeted patients, at-risk individuals, or community members. Access to reliable technological resources, familiarity with technology, and training and support were key determinants of implementation. Additional themes included users forgetting to use the mHealth interventions and mHealth intervention designs affecting ease of use.

CONCLUSIONS: Acceptance of the intervention and the capacity of existing health care system infrastructure and resources are 2 key factors affecting the implementation of mHealth interventions. Understanding the interaction between mHealth interventions, their implementation, and health systems will improve their uptake in LMICs.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/standards/statistics & numerical data
*Developing Countries
*Qualitative Research
Communicable Diseases/therapy
COVID-19/epidemiology