@article {pmid41145060,
year = {2025},
author = {Monteiro Belo Dos Santos, S and Van Tricht, C and Lammertyn, J and Spasic, D},
title = {Zoonotic disease detection at the point-of-care: the best of RPA and CRISPR-Cas.},
journal = {Biosensors & bioelectronics},
volume = {293},
number = {},
pages = {118139},
doi = {10.1016/j.bios.2025.118139},
pmid = {41145060},
issn = {1873-4235},
abstract = {Biosensors are increasingly crucial in detecting biomarkers for emerging zoonotic diseases at the point-of-care (POC). This imminence was recently highlighted by the deficient response during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. While polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the common nucleic acid (NA) testing method for zoonotic diseases in laboratory settings, it is impractical for the POC settings due to the equipment-related cost, lack of portability and user-friendliness. Recent advances in NA amplification introduced isothermal methods, such as recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), which is known for its low temperature (37-42 °C), short incubation time (5-20 min) and suitability for integration in miniaturized, portable, low-cost, highly sensitive diagnostic platforms. However, RPA susceptibility to false positive results steered to its combination with CRISPR-Cas12/13, leading to the rise of SHERLOCK and DETECTR. This review first explores RPA-CRISPR-Cas bioassay development as either two- or one-step. This is followed by a discussion on the integration of canonical RPA, or its combination with CRISPR-Cas, into different diagnostic platforms towards NA amplification at the POC (e.g., mobile laboratories, centrifugal, or pump-free platforms). Finally, the advantages, limitations, and outlook for POC-based diagnostics of zoonotic diseases with RPA(-CRISPR-Cas) are discussed, highlighting the need for innovative technologies to address global health challenges. While promising, many of these approaches still require further research to achieve streamlined, single-step reactions and seamless integration into diagnostic platforms. Moreover, despite two decades of RPA(-CRISPR-Cas) development, technology readiness is limited, still missing validated platforms, integrated sample preparation, and AI-powered results analysis enabling real time epidemiological monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid41144923,
year = {2025},
author = {Raju, L and Tiz, DB and Iles, A and Košmrlj, J and Jansen-van Vuuren, RD},
title = {Deuteration of Six-Membered N-Heteroarenes: Chemistry and Applications.},
journal = {Chemistry (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e02659},
doi = {10.1002/chem.202502659},
pmid = {41144923},
issn = {1521-3765},
support = {101211395//HORIZON EUROPE Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions/ ; J7-50041//Javna Agencija za Raziskovalno Dejavnost RS/ ; },
abstract = {Six-membered N-heteroarenes ("6NHetAr") play pivotal roles in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and materials science industries. In recent times, deuterium (D)-labelled 6NHetAr have demonstrated enhanced performance over their unlabelled counterparts. For example, VV116 and VX-984, approved therapeutics for the treatment of COVID-19 and cancer, and deuterated functional materials for use as ligands in catalysts and organometallic light-emitters. As interest in this field continues to grow, there is a corresponding need to develop more efficient, scalable, and sustainable approaches to deuterate 6NHetAr. In this work, we comprehensively review approaches developed for the incorporation of D into 6NHetAr, their fused counterparts, and complex compounds containing 6NHetAr. We also provide an overview of established and emerging applications for these materials.},
}

@article {pmid41144325,
year = {2025},
author = {Dutta, A and Mooventhan, A and Nivethitha, L and Dharani, E},
title = {Efficacy of Yoga Nidra in Managing Sleep Disorders: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.},
journal = {Journal of integrative and complementary medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1177/27683605251390728},
pmid = {41144325},
issn = {2768-3613},
abstract = {Background: Sleep disorders are increasingly prevalent and significantly impact physical and mental health. Yoga Nidra, a guided meditative practice, has been proposed as a non-pharmacological intervention to enhance sleep quality. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of Yoga Nidra in managing sleep disorders across diverse populations. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and Scopus databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating Yoga Nidra for sleep-related outcomes, published up to March 31, 2025. The primary objective was to assess the efficacy of Yoga Nidra on sleep quality and related psychological outcomes. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane RoB tool (in seven domains). Results: Six RCTs (n = 244) were included, involving participants with chronic insomnia, hypertension, acute insomnia, COVID-19 health care workers, and sportspersons. Most studies reported significant improvements in key sleep parameters such as sleep onset latency, total sleep time, and sleep efficiency among participants practicing Yoga Nidra. Improvements were observed compared to various control interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, progressive muscle relaxation, and music-based relaxation. However, heterogeneity was noted in intervention protocols, outcome measures, and duration. Most studies had moderate to high RoB, primarily due to lack of blinding and incomplete outcome reporting. Moreover, there was a lack of accurate reporting of adverse events and safety data across the studies. Conclusion: Yoga Nidra appears to show promise as a therapeutic intervention for improving sleep and related mental health outcomes. Nevertheless, high-quality, methodologically robust RCTs are needed to confirm its efficacy and support its integration into evidence-based clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid41143640,
year = {2025},
author = {Shchelokova, EE and Kogan, EA and Avraamova, ST and Demura, TA and Zharkov, NV and Kovyazina, NV and Mordovina, AI and Zelenchenkova, PI and Meerovich, GA and Reshetov, IV},
title = {[Features of lung cancer carcinogenesis involving cancer stem cells in COVID-19. Effects of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of cancer and COVID-19].},
journal = {Arkhiv patologii},
volume = {87},
number = {5},
pages = {65-73},
doi = {10.17116/patol20258705165},
pmid = {41143640},
issn = {0004-1955},
mesh = {Humans ; *Photochemotherapy/methods ; *COVID-19/virology/pathology/complications ; *Lung Neoplasms/pathology/drug therapy/virology/metabolism ; *Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology/virology/drug effects/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Carcinogenesis/pathology/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Lung cancer occupies a leading position among malignant neoplasms throughout the world, and the issue of carcinogenesis of this disease today still remains relevant. This review examines in detail the issue of the participation of cancer stem cells in the development of lung cancer, the concept of the stem cell niche, and options for their detection using molecular and immunohistochemical studies. A separate section examines the impact of the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 on CSC and lung cancer carcinogenesis in general, as well as the successful results of the use of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of both diseases.},
}

Humans
*Photochemotherapy/methods
*COVID-19/virology/pathology/complications
*Lung Neoplasms/pathology/drug therapy/virology/metabolism
*Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology/virology/drug effects/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Carcinogenesis/pathology/drug effects

@article {pmid41142721,
year = {2025},
author = {Kerobe, W and Msellem, AS and Sabuni, PA and Mkassy, FI and Chilipweli, PM and Kapesa, A and Kidenya, BR and Ayieko, P and Bintabara, D and Konje, ET},
title = {Impact of temperature and humidity on SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1570002},
pmid = {41142721},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Humidity ; *COVID-19/transmission/epidemiology ; *Temperature ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic remains crucial for understanding the epidemiology of future respiratory infections. Gaining insights into the climatic factors influencing the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 is an important public health issue in the control and prevention of the disease. Hence, this study aimed to assess the association between SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility and both humidity and temperature.

METHODS: Articles published between December 2019 and August 2024 were identified from PubMed, Africa Journal Online, Science Direct, and Hinari databases following PRISMA guidelines. The focus was on studies that reported transmissibility based on basic reproductive number, specifically correlation coefficients between basic reproductive number and temperature, or humidity, or corresponding regression coefficients, and their standard errors. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Random effect models were applied. The meta-analysis was done in R version 4.3.0.

RESULTS: 9 studies qualified, but 5 were excluded for missing coefficients, leaving 4 for meta-analysis. The study analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between temperature and SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility (r = -0.509, 95% CI: -0.680 to -0.338, p < 0.001). Similarly, a significant but weaker negative correlation was found between humidity and SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility (r = -0.426, 95% CI: -0.548 to -0.303, p < 0.001). A unit increase in humidity measured in percentage was associated with a decrease in transmissibility by 0.006 (95% CI: -0.007 to -0.004, p < 0.001), while a unit increase in temperature in Celsius (°C) was associated with a reduction of transmissibility by 0.008 (95% CI: -0.030 to -0.030, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Temperature and humidity were negatively associated with SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility; thus, disease transmissibility decreased as temperature or humidity increased. Climatic factors are important considerations for effective disease surveillance and preparedness strategies.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, CRD42025637440.},
}

Humans
*Humidity
*COVID-19/transmission/epidemiology
*Temperature
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41142406,
year = {2025},
author = {Thambiraj, G and Bazoukis, G and Ghabousian, A and Zhou, J and Bollepalli, SC and Isselbacher, EM and Donahue, V and Singh, JP and Armoundas, AA},
title = {Use of artificial intelligence in predicting in-hospital cardiac and respiratory arrest in an acute care environment-implications for clinical practice.},
journal = {Frontiers in medical technology},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1681059},
pmid = {41142406},
issn = {2673-3129},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI)-based models can augment clinical decision-making, including prediction, diagnosis, and treatment, in all aspects of medicine.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS: The current systematic review aims to provide a summary of existing data about the role of machine learning (ML) techniques in predicting in-hospital cardiac arrest, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, and respiratory arrest.

METHODS: The study was conducted in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework. PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science without any restriction were searched to extract relevant manuscripts until October 20, 2023. Additionally, the reference list of all potential studies was searched to identify further relevant articles. Original publications were regarded as eligible if they only recruited adult patients (≥18 years of age), employed AI/ML algorithms for predicting cardiac arrest, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, and respiratory arrest in the setting of critical care, used data gathered from wards with critically ill patients (ICUs, cardiac ICUs, and emergency departments), and were published in English. The following information was extracted: first author, journal, ward, sample size, performance and features of ML and conventional models, and outcomes.

RESULTS: ML algorithms have been used for cardiac arrest prediction using easily obtained variables as inputs. ML algorithms showed promising results (AUC 0.73-0.96) in predicting cardiac arrest in different settings, including critically ill ICU patients, patients in the emergency department and patients with sepsis, they demonstrated variable performance (AUC 0.54-0.94) in predicting respiratory arrest in COVID-19 patients, as well as other clinical settings.

CONCLUSION: ML algorithms have shown promising results in predicting in-hospital cardiac and respiratory arrest using readily available clinical data. These algorithms may enhance early identification of high risk patients and support timely interventions, thereby reducing mortality and morbidity rates. However, the prospective validation of these algorithms and their integration into clinical workflows need further exploration.},
}

@article {pmid41142061,
year = {2025},
author = {Negari, IP and Khoerunnisa, AN and Tarwadi, and Sari, AN and Chuang, TH},
title = {Delivery and adjuvant: liposomes for SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.},
journal = {Biotechnologia},
volume = {106},
number = {3},
pages = {339-360},
pmid = {41142061},
issn = {2353-9461},
abstract = {The global COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of vaccines in controlling infectious diseases, with liposome-based formulations emerging as a pivotal advancement in vaccine technology. Liposomes are spherical vesicles composed of lipid bilayers that serve as drug delivery systems and versatile adjuvants, enhancing vaccine efficacy through improved antigen stability, targeted delivery, and immunogenicity. This review explores the potential of liposomes as adjuvants in both mRNA and protein subunit SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, detailing their composition and dual impact on innate and adaptive immune responses. Notably, liposome-based mRNA vaccines, such as those developed by Pfizer and Moderna, have demonstrated high efficacy by utilizing lipid nanoparticles to encapsulate mRNA and stimulate antigen-presenting cells, thereby inducing robust immune responses. Despite their advantages, challenges remain, including the optimization of lipid compositions and the mitigation of adverse immune effects. This review also examines the broad applications of liposomes in nanomedicine - from cancer therapy to antifungal treatments - and their potential for future vaccine development. By bridging the gap between engineering and immunology, the study of liposomes underscores their transformative potential in addressing current and emerging global health challenges.},
}

@article {pmid41141841,
year = {2025},
author = {Belayneh, AG and Andargie, GA and Seid, K and Lakew, G and Yirsaw, AN and Tefera, M and Bogale, EK and Anagaw, TF and Fenta, ET and Endeshaw, D and Adal, O and Tareke, AA and Kebede, N and Jemberu, L and Getachew, E},
title = {Treatment outcome and associated factors of acute heart failure in East Africa, an Ethiopian perspective: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {American heart journal plus : cardiology research and practice},
volume = {59},
number = {},
pages = {100637},
pmid = {41141841},
issn = {2666-6022},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute heart failure is a major global health issue, contributing to significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia. Despite its burden, comprehensive data on acute heart failure in East Africa remains scarce.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the treatment outcome of acute heart failure and associated factors in East Africa with a focus on Ethiopia.

METHODS: Relevant studies were searched in major databases, including PubMed/Medline, Hinari, Science Direct, EMBASE, Scopus, AJOL, Cochrane Library, and local sources from July 5-25, 2024. Both published and unpublished studies in English were included without restrictions on publication date, following PRISMA-2020 protocols. Data quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and meta-analysis was conducted using Stata version 18.

RESULTS: A total of 9 articles involving 1107 participants were included. The pooled mortality of acute heart failure was 16.36 % (95 % CI: 12.39, 20.33) with heterogeneity (I[2)] value of 85.86 %. Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), smoking, and hypotension were the factors significantly associated with the pooled mortality rate of acute heart failure.

CONCLUSION: This review reveals a high mortality of acute heart failure among hospitalized patients in Ethiopia. Factors such as increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), smoking, and hypotension contribute to death due to acute heart failure. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the burden of acute heart failure and improve patient survival in Ethiopia by addressing the identified predictors of poor outcomes and integrating global best practices into local healthcare systems.},
}

@article {pmid41141460,
year = {2025},
author = {Irfan, B and Khleif, A and Badarneh, J and Abutaqa, J and Allam, A and Kweis, S and Tarab, B and Abu Shammala, A and Nasser, E and Shweiki, S and Wajahath, M and Padela, A},
title = {Considering Islamic Frameworks to Infectious Disease Prevention.},
journal = {Open forum infectious diseases},
volume = {12},
number = {10},
pages = {ofaf011},
pmid = {41141460},
issn = {2328-8957},
abstract = {Infectious diseases remain a significant global health challenge, particularly in Muslim-majority countries, where socioeconomic disparities, urbanization, and conflict exacerbate the spread of illnesses such as dengue, cholera, malaria, and coronavirus disease 2019. This review explores the potential of Islamic concepts such as taharah (cleanliness), la darar wa la dirar (prevention of harm), and maṣlaḥa (communal benefit) as frameworks for infectious disease prevention. These values may align with public health goals, offering religiously resonant approaches to health promotion while addressing the ethical complexities of integrating religious beliefs with biomedical imperatives. This review examines how community health workers and religious leaders can collaborate to deliver health education, promote vaccination, and manage disease outbreaks, particularly in underserved regions where trust in certain institutions is limited. Challenges arise in ensuring inclusivity, avoiding stigmatization, and balancing the utility of religion in optimal medical end goals. The ethical implications of using religious messaging in public health campaigns are critically analyzed, emphasizing the need for careful framing to avoid coercion while addressing public benefit. By synthesizing existing literature and case studies, this review highlights how Islamic frameworks may be used to support effective, ethical, and sustainable infectious disease prevention for various stakeholders, offering valuable insights for public health strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41141324,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmad Hilmi, SB and Chellappan, DK and Kunnath, AP},
title = {Non-Malignant Granulocyte and Monocyte Disorders: An Update.},
journal = {British journal of biomedical science},
volume = {82},
number = {},
pages = {15072},
pmid = {41141324},
issn = {2474-0896},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neutropenia/genetics/therapy ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Granulocytes/pathology ; *Monocytes/pathology/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Non-malignant disorders of granulocytes and monocytes include a range of conditions characterized by either quantitative issues (such as cytopenias or cytophilias) or qualitative defects in innate immune cells. These disorders encompass neutropenias, monocytopenias, eosinophilic syndromes, and defects in granulocyte maturation. They can result from genetic mutations (including ELANE, HAX1, GATA2, and CSF3R), autoimmune dysregulation, or idiopathic mechanisms. The clinical manifestations of these disorders vary and can include recurrent infections, inflammatory complications, and organ damage. These issues arise from disrupted granulopoiesis, abnormal apoptosis, or dysfunctional chemotaxis. Recent innovations underscore how molecular diagnostics inform both mutation detection and risk stratification in congenital neutropenias. Take ELANE-associated severe congenital neutropenia: such variants not only establish the disorder but also highlight the subsequent hazard of myelodysplastic progression. In contrast, GATA2 deficiency generates isolated monocytopenia, correlating with a broadened window for opportunistic pathogens. Frontline practice now advocates for prompt, integrative assessment using next-generation sequencing alongside quantitative flow cytometry, thereby parsing mild benign states from early clonal hematopoiesis. Management hurdles persist, especially in patients with refractory neutropenia and the calibrated use of immunosuppression in autoimmune etiologies. The COVID-19 pandemic incidentally reiterated the extent of infectious susceptibility within this cohort, prompting the refinement of absolute, personalized prophylactic strategies. This review synthesizes the molecular mechanisms, genetic basis, and therapeutic innovations in non-malignant granulocyte/monocyte disorders, offering a roadmap for personalized management. By bridging mechanistic insights with clinical practice, it addresses unmet needs in diagnostics, risk prediction, and novel biologics, ultimately improving outcomes for these underrecognized yet impactful conditions.},
}

Humans
*Neutropenia/genetics/therapy
*COVID-19/immunology
*Granulocytes/pathology
*Monocytes/pathology/immunology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41140791,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, R and Liu, L and Wang, G},
title = {Medical Policy Reform in the Digital Age: Responding to Health Crises Shaped by Internet Public Opinion.},
journal = {Risk management and healthcare policy},
volume = {18},
number = {},
pages = {3387-3396},
pmid = {41140791},
issn = {1179-1594},
abstract = {The evolution of digital media over recent decades has fundamentally reshaped how health crises are communicated and managed, significantly influencing medical policy reforms. The increasing prominence of social media platforms has created new opportunities and challenges in health crisis management. This review examines how online discourse surrounding health crises, including both accurate information and misinformation, has shaped public health policy by influencing public trust and complicating policy implementation. Through an analysis of case studies and crisis communication literature, this review identifies the key factors driving policy changes in response to digital public opinion. The role of misinformation, viral content, and digital activism in driving or hindering health policy reforms is discussed, with a focus on how governments and health agencies have adapted their communication strategies to maintain public trust and ensure effective policy implementation. Notable examples include South Korea's digital health initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic and the United States responses to vaccine eligibility confusion, which illustrate the dynamic relationship between digital mobilisation and policy shifts. The review advocates for the integration of digital engagement strategies into health policy development, emphasising transparency, real-time feedback, and active stakeholder participation. Best practices in digital crisis management, such as social media monitoring, data-informed decision-making, and transparent communication, are highlighted. As digital media continues to shape public opinion, agile, transparent, and responsive communication has become critical. Policymakers must now consider digital engagement not only as a tool for crisis management but as an essential component of the policymaking process.},
}

@article {pmid41140367,
year = {2025},
author = {Alfonso Arvez, MJ and Tan, GSQ and Leung, MTY and Ademi, Z and Bell, JS},
title = {SGLT2 Inhibitors and the Risk of Infections in Type 2 Diabetes: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses of Real-World Evidence.},
journal = {Journal of diabetes research},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {5888495},
pmid = {41140367},
issn = {2314-6753},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy/complications ; *COVID-19/mortality/epidemiology ; *Infections/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: People with diabetes are at increased risk of infections. Emerging evidence suggests sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have pleiotropic effects that may protect against certain infections. We systematically reviewed real-world evidence on the association between SGLT2 inhibitors and infections among adults with Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar from January 1, 2012 to March 18, 2024 for observational studies conducted in adults with Type 2 diabetes published in English. The exposure was SGLT2 inhibitors, and comparators were nonusers or users of other glucose-lowering medications. Studies reporting outcome estimates for specific non-genitourinary infections were included. The study was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023492265).

RESULTS: From 6827 records, 28 studies were included in qualitative synthesis and 14 in meta-analyses. There was no association with COVID-19-related mortality in seven studies (OR 0.91; 95% CI: 0.57-1.46) or COVID-19-related hospitalisation in three studies (OR 0.90; 95% CI: 0.67-1.20). A reduced risk of pneumonia was observed in three studies (HR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.57-0.66), a reduced risk of pneumonia-related mortality in two studies (HR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.35-0.67), and a reduced risk of sepsis in three studies (HR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.30-0.68).

CONCLUSION: Real-world evidence suggests SGLT2 inhibitors are associated with lower risk of pneumonia, pneumonia-related mortality and sepsis. Given the high burden of infection in this population, these associations deserve further research.},
}

Humans
*Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors/therapeutic use
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy/complications
*COVID-19/mortality/epidemiology
*Infections/epidemiology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid41140224,
year = {2025},
author = {Moreal, C and Angelini, J and Venturini, S and Deana, C and Flammini, S and Lugano, M and Lucangelo, U and Montanari, L and Pellis, T and Roman-Pognuz, E and Schioppa, O and Zerbato, V and Bassi, F and Giuliano, S and Tascini, C},
title = {Management of Invasive Fungal Infection: Clinical Strategies in Critical Care from a Multidisciplinary Consensus.},
journal = {The new microbiologica},
volume = {48},
number = {3},
pages = {211-214},
pmid = {41140224},
issn = {1121-7138},
mesh = {Humans ; *Invasive Fungal Infections/drug therapy/diagnosis/microbiology ; *Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; *Critical Care/methods ; Consensus ; },
abstract = {Fungal infections pose a growing threat in hospital settings, particularly among critically ill or immunocompromised patients. A multidisciplinary consensus among fifteen clinical experts from Northern Italy examined the increasing challenge of invasive fungal infections, especially in patients with high-risk complications and in critical settings. The report emphasizes early diagnostic integration through clinical assessment, biomarker evaluation, and the essential role of therapeutic drug monitoring in optimizing outcomes. This consensus aims to consolidate clinical strategies for timely diagnosis, personalized pharmacologic intervention, and antifungal stewardship. Azoles are identified as first-line treatment options. Isavuconazole emerged as a preferred therapeutic agent due to its favorable pharmacokinetic profile, safety in renal impairment, and lack of QT interval prolongation. This consensus supports integrated strategies combining early recognition, rapid diagnostics, individualized pharmacology, and antifungal stewardship to improve outcomes, particularly in critical care settings.},
}

Humans
*Invasive Fungal Infections/drug therapy/diagnosis/microbiology
*Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use
*Critical Care/methods
Consensus

@article {pmid41140040,
year = {2025},
author = {Madjitey, P and Hunt, M and Andermann, A},
title = {Exploring the Ethical Tensions Experienced by Health Care Workers during Infectious Disease Outbreaks in Low- and Middle-income Countries: A Critical Interpretive Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Disaster medicine and public health preparedness},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {e304},
doi = {10.1017/dmp.2025.10229},
pmid = {41140040},
issn = {1938-744X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Health Personnel/psychology/ethics/statistics & numerical data ; Developing Countries/statistics & numerical data ; *Disease Outbreaks/statistics & numerical data ; Qualitative Research ; COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This review aimed to map the main ethical tensions experienced by health workers in low- and middle-income countries during infectious disease outbreaks.

METHODS: We conducted a critical interpretive review of qualitative research studies. After searching 3 databases, 4445 articles were exported to Rayyan, deduplicated, and screened for eligibility. Of the 98 articles retained for full review, 25 met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted to an Excel spreadsheet and key ethical tensions were identified using a descriptive content and thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS: Twenty-three of the studies focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, and two addressed Ebola epidemics. Three major ethical tensions were experienced by health workers, which involved conflicts between their professional duty to patients, colleagues, and communities, as against their concerns for personal safety, the well-being of their families, and facing stigma and discrimination. Secondary tensions arose when health workers seeking to manage these primary ethical tensions experienced further uncertainty about whether to disclose information about their professional roles with family members or community.

CONCLUSIONS: Ethical tensions are unavoidable during contagions, and may be amplified due to structural features. Authorities must take steps to support health workers as they navigate ethical tensions during localized epidemics or global pandemics.},
}

Humans
*Health Personnel/psychology/ethics/statistics & numerical data
Developing Countries/statistics & numerical data
*Disease Outbreaks/statistics & numerical data
Qualitative Research
COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology

@article {pmid41140011,
year = {2025},
author = {Chandrasekaran, K and Chitathoor, S and Deshpande, A and Santhanakrishnan, S and Jayaraman, S and Sankari, L},
title = {Oral Cavity Involvement in Mucormycosis: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Ear, nose, & throat journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1455613251387879},
doi = {10.1177/01455613251387879},
pmid = {41140011},
issn = {1942-7522},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mucormycosis is a rare but life-threatening fungal infection. While rhinocerebral forms are well-documented, oral cavity involvement remains underreported and misdiagnosed, despite its potential for rapid progression and serious complications.

AIM: This systematic review aimed to evaluate and synthesize available evidence on the clinical presentation, anatomical patterns, diagnostic methods, outcomes, and management strategies associated with oral cavity involvement in mucormycosis.

METHODOLOGY: Literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to 2025. Eligible human studies were included. Data were extracted and narratively synthesized. Quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and risk of bias was evaluated with the ROBINS-I tool with 7 included studies.

RESULTS: Seven studies comprising 451 cases were analyzed. Most patients were middle-aged males with diabetes and a recent post-COVID-19 status. Common clinical features included palatal ulcers, eschar, tooth mobility, and necrotic lesions. Diagnosis relied on potassium hydroxide mount, histopathology, and imaging. Amphotericin B was the mainstay of antifungal therapy, often combined with surgical debridement or maxillectomy. Mortality varied widely across studies, with better outcomes linked to early diagnosis and combined treatment.

CONCLUSION: Oral Mucormycosis is a critical yet often underrecognized condition. Timely identification in high-risk patients is essential to prevent progression.},
}

@article {pmid41138066,
year = {2025},
author = {Hamilton, FL and Imran, S and Mahmood, A and Dobbin, J and Bradbury, K and Poduval, S and Scuffell, J and Thomas, F and Stevenson, F},
title = {Design and deployment of digital health interventions to reduce the risk of the digital divide and to inform development of the living with COVID recovery: a systematic scoping review.},
journal = {Health and social care delivery research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-18},
doi = {10.3310/GJHG1331},
pmid = {41138066},
issn = {2755-0079},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital health interventions can support health-related knowledge transfer, for example through websites or mobile applications, and may reduce health inequalities by making health care available, where access is difficult, and by translating content to overcome language barriers. However, digital health intervention can also increase health inequalities due to the digital divide. To reach digitally excluded populations, design and delivery mechanisms need to specifically address this issue. This review was conducted during the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and informed the rapid design, deployment and evaluation of a post-COVID-19 rehabilitation digital health intervention: 'Living with COVID Recovery' (LWCR). LWCR needed to be engaging and usable for patients and to avoid exacerbating health inequalities. LWCR was introduced as a service into 33 NHS clinics, was used by 7679 patients, and evaluation ran from August 2020 to December 2022.

OBJECTIVE: To identify evidence-based digital health intervention design and deployment features conducive to mitigating the digital divide.

METHODS: Cochrane Library, Epistemonikos, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Evidence, PROSPERO, PubMed (with MEDLINE and Europe PMC) and Turning Research into Practice; OpenGrey and Google Scholar were searched for primary research studies published in English from 1 October 2011 to 1 October 2021.

SETTING AND POPULATION: Adults who were likely to be affected by the digital divide, including older age, minority ethnic groups, lower income/education level and in any healthcare setting.

INTERVENTIONS: Any digital health intervention with features of design and/or deployment intended to enable access and engagement by the population of focus.

COMPARATORS: Any or none.

OUTCOME MEASURES: Any related to participants' access and/or use of digital health intervention and/or change in digital skills and confidence.

ANALYSIS: Data from studies that met the inclusion criteria were extracted, narratively synthesised and thematically analysed.

RESULTS: Twenty-two papers met the inclusion criteria. Digital health interventions evaluated included telehealth, text message interventions, virtual assistants, self-management programmes and decision aids.

DESIGN THEMES INCLUDE: Co-development with end-users, user testing through iterative design cycles, digital health interventions that also helped improve digital skills and digital health literacy, tailoring for low literacy through animations, pictures, videos and writing for low reading ages; virtual assistants to collect information from patients and guide the use of a digital health intervention.

DEPLOYMENT THEMES INCLUDED: Free devices and data, or signposting to sources of cheap/free devices and Wi-Fi, text message interventions, providing 'human support', providing tailored digital skills education as part of the intervention and enabling peer/family support.

LIMITATIONS: Our search extended to late 2021, and there has been a massive increase in the literature following the pandemic. However, as our review was undertaken to inform the LWCR digital health intervention design and deployment, we have reported the results that informed this work. The studies included in the review were heterogeneous, so generalisability may be limited. Few randomised controlled trials assessed the digital health intervention's impact on digital health skills by using validated measures.

CONCLUSIONS: Using the design and deployment findings described above when developing digital health interventions may help overcome the digital divide. Beyond informing the LWCR digital health intervention development, the review findings have wider implications for the equitable design, delivery and evaluation of digital health interventions.

FUNDING: This article presents independent research funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health and Social Care Delivery Research programme as award number NIHR132243.},
}

@article {pmid40971535,
year = {2025},
author = {Maeda, T and Komine, G and Noda, R and Komatsu, M and Sakai, M and Takeyama, Y and Soejima, S and Maruyama, A and Akahoshi, M and Koarada, S and Tada, Y},
title = {Adult-onset Still's disease following COVID-19: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {Modern rheumatology case reports},
volume = {9},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/mrcr/rxaf059},
pmid = {40971535},
issn = {2472-5625},
mesh = {Humans ; *Still's Disease, Adult-Onset/drug therapy/etiology/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/complications ; Middle Aged ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Methotrexate/therapeutic use ; Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Ferritins/blood ; },
abstract = {A 59-year-old man developed adult-onset Still's disease 11 days after contracting COVID-19. He presented with high fever, polyarthritis, erythema, sore throat, and high levels of C-reactive protein and ferritin; treatment with glucocorticoids and methotrexate led to disease remission. We reviewed the clinical characteristics of 12 cases (11 from the literature and the present case) of adult-onset Still's disease following COVID-19. Eight cases involved females, with a median age of 54 years (19-59 years), and the median time from COVID-19 to Still's disease onset was 12.5 days. Frequencies of high fever, arthralgia, typical skin lesion, sore throat, liver damage, and increased neutrophil count did not differ from cases of non-COVID-related adult-onset Still's disease. Serum ferritin levels were increased in all cases (median 6354 ng/ml). Complications were infrequent, with macrophage activation syndrome reported in one case. Immunosuppressive drugs and biologic agents were used in five and three cases, respectively, and all cases had good outcomes. Our review suggests that adult-onset Still's disease develops early after COVID-19, presenting with clinical findings similar to non-COVID-19-related cases, and has few severe complications and a good prognosis.},
}

Humans
*Still's Disease, Adult-Onset/drug therapy/etiology/diagnosis
*COVID-19/complications
Middle Aged
Male
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Methotrexate/therapeutic use
Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
Adult
Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use
Ferritins/blood

@article {pmid41137964,
year = {2025},
author = {Reis, J and Öztürk, Ş and Buguet, A and Kauffenstein, G and Tulek, Z},
title = {Stroke, infections, and New Mechanisms: a Narrative Review.},
journal = {Current neurology and neuroscience reports},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {74},
pmid = {41137964},
issn = {1534-6293},
mesh = {Humans ; *Stroke/etiology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Risk Factors ; *Infections/complications/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Infections as a risk factor for stroke remain an underrecognized issue within the medical community although this link was identified for more than 60 years. Preceding infections acting as triggers or even causal factors for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke were assessed notably for tropical infections.

RECENT FINDINGS: Since the COVID 19 pandemic, the interest for all kind of infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasitosis) is becoming an emerging concern worldwide. Surprisingly, this risk is addressed only in classification of causes concerning young adults and children. In addition, the seasonality of meteorological conditions (temperature, humidity, rain patterns) probably obscured the underlying causes such as epidemic infections and air pollution peaks (which can act in synergy, notably for respiratory infections). Greater recognition of infection-related stroke risk is essential, especially given the potential for increased incidence driven by global warming, the availability of biomarkers for risk assessment, and the opportunities improving preventive and therapeutic strategies.},
}

Humans
*Stroke/etiology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Risk Factors
*Infections/complications/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41136586,
year = {2025},
author = {Vera-Torres, A and Cortes-Mejia, NA and de la Hoz-Valle, JA and Bejarano-Ramírez, DF},
title = {Challenges of high-quality clinical research in Colombia: an example of a clinical trial amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of public health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41136586},
issn = {1745-655X},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed significant disparities in health research across regions, particularly in Latin America. This viewpoint explores the challenges encountered during a randomized clinical trial in Colombia designed to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous Alprostadil for treating moderate-to-severe COVID-19. The trial, aimed to address the urgent need for effective treatments, ultimately became undermined by bureaucratic barriers. This experience of regulatory delays and prolonged setbacks highlighted broader systemic issues in health research across Latin America, such as tangled regulatory frameworks, insufficient skilled staff, and limited research infrastructure. These obstacles, combined with financial constraints, prevent timely research, impairing Latin America's ability to address health crises independently. To improve health research policies in the region, lessons from countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, where regulatory processes have been streamlined, suggest that reforms promoting efficient approval systems, policy alignment, and enhanced collaboration are vital for strengthening health research capacity in Latin America.},
}

@article {pmid40991173,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, X and Tong, X and Hou, R and Wang, P and Mo, Y and Zhang, L},
title = {Unveiling the secret of cellular metamorphosis: the crucial role of EndMT mechanisms in COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {33},
number = {10},
pages = {6251-6260},
pmid = {40991173},
issn = {1568-5608},
support = {2022NSFSC1394//Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan province/ ; 2023-GH02-00092-HZ//International Science and Technology Cooperation Project of Chengdu/ ; Q21018//Youth Innovation Project of Sichuan Medical Association/ ; 2022516//Chengdu Medical Research Projects/ ; 2023666//Chengdu Medical Research Projects/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/pathology ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology/pathology/etiology/metabolism ; Animals ; *Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/physiology ; Endothelial Cells/pathology/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in several long-term complications, with COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis being a significant concern. Despite increasing recognition, the mechanisms underlying its development, effective treatment strategies, and long-term outcomes remain poorly understood. Emerging research highlights the direct impact of SARS-CoV-2 on vascular endothelial cells, identifying endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) as a key factor in the progression of COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis. However, there is a notable lack of comprehensive reviews addressing the link between EndMT and COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis. This review seeks to fill that gap by providing an in-depth analysis of the relationship between EndMT and fibrosis, examining relevant risk factors and molecular pathways. Our findings offer critical insights that could inform the development of targeted anti-fibrotic therapies aimed at mitigating COVID-19-related pulmonary fibrosis. Ultimately, this review aims to advance understanding of the role of EndMT in pulmonary fibrosis and to guide future research and treatment approaches.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/pathology
*Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology/pathology/etiology/metabolism
Animals
*Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/physiology
Endothelial Cells/pathology/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition

@article {pmid40680937,
year = {2025},
author = {Meschino, D and Lindsay, D and Tang, GH and James, P and Fralick, M and Sholzberg, M},
title = {Evaluating the combined effect of antifibrinolytics and estrogen on the risk of thromboembolism: a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of thrombosis and haemostasis : JTH},
volume = {23},
number = {11},
pages = {3540-3560},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtha.2025.06.033},
pmid = {40680937},
issn = {1538-7836},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Estrogens/adverse effects ; *Antifibrinolytic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Thromboembolism/chemically induced ; Risk Factors ; Risk Assessment ; *Menorrhagia/drug therapy/blood ; Adult ; Postpartum Hemorrhage/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Up to 30% of reproductive-aged women seek medical attention for heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Estrogen-containing contraceptives and antifibrinolytics are first-line treatments. Despite evidence for these agents for HMB and for antifibrinolytics in other high-estrogen states (eg, postpartum), many antifibrinolytic monographs warn against use with concurrent estrogen-containing contraception given theoretical thromboembolic risk.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to systematically evaluate the literature that explores the combined effect of pharmacologic or high physiologic estrogen and antifibrinolytic agents on thromboembolic risk in women of reproductive age when used for heavy menstrual or postpartum bleeding.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed of records until April 2023. Publications written in English describing risk or reported cases of thromboembolism in reproductive-age women prescribed antifibrinolytics with estrogen-containing contraceptives or with a physiologic estrogenic state were included.

RESULTS: We identified 4302 publications; 55 publications with 199 228 participants were included. Two case reports and one case series described thromboembolism with concomitant estrogen-containing contraceptives and antifibrinolytic use. Four of 5 patients in the case series had other thrombotic risk factors. Fifty-two publications investigated antifibrinolytic use postpartum. Four RCTs of postpartum antifibrinolytic use assessed thromboembolism as a secondary outcome, none of which reported increased risk with antifibrinolytics. One case report suggested possible thrombotic risk wherein the patient had other provoking risk factors.

CONCLUSION: We found no strong evidence that intermittent antifibrinolytic use in physiologic estrogenic states is associated with increased reported cases or risk of thromboembolic events. Prospective studies are warranted to assess the thrombotic risk of combined estrogen-containing contraceptives and antifibrinolytics.},
}

Humans
Female
*Estrogens/adverse effects
*Antifibrinolytic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Thromboembolism/chemically induced
Risk Factors
Risk Assessment
*Menorrhagia/drug therapy/blood
Adult
Postpartum Hemorrhage/drug therapy

@article {pmid40504242,
year = {2025},
author = {Summerbell, R and Scott, J},
title = {Emerging Human Health Problems Caused by Pathogenic and Immuno-activating Fungi.},
journal = {Current topics in microbiology and immunology},
volume = {446},
number = {},
pages = {201-241},
pmid = {40504242},
issn = {0070-217X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mycoses/microbiology/epidemiology/immunology ; Animals ; *Fungi/drug effects/pathogenicity/immunology/classification ; Drug Resistance, Fungal ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/microbiology/epidemiology ; Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {In recent years, several types of novel fungal health problems have been emerging in parallel. Antifungal-drug-resistant opportunistic pathogens have emerged both in previously unknown lineages, notably Candida auris, and in traditional pathogens and opportunists such as the Trichophyton mentagrophytes species complex and Aspergillus fumigatus. Emergence of resistance in Aspergillus is clearly connected to agricultural use of fungicides related to medical antifungals, but is brought into further prominence by the simultaneous emergence of immunosuppressive viral effects connected to influenza and SARS CoV 2 infections. The sources of drug resistance phenotypes in Candida auris and Trichophyton indotineae are unclear, but neither climate change nor drug misuse can be clearly implicated. In Onygenalean endemic mycoses, however, climate change is under suspicion of causing range extension in Coccidioides immitis. Decimation of some North American bat species associated with Histoplasma hot spots has not had a perceptible effect on this fungus so far. Historical reading suggests that it may have survived a previous loss of conditioned habitat when the passenger pigeon became extinct. Emergence of Emergomyces and new Blastomyces species appears mainly to be related to enhanced recognition. Two separate sporotrichosis outbreaks in cats in South America and Southeast Asia suggest a little-discussed mechanism of pathogen emergence, opportunity trawling, i.e. ingress of new potential hosts into pathogen habitats leading to novel epizootics. In the investigations of non-pathogenic fungi connected to immunologically or toxicologically mediated symptomatology in indoor environments, the slow augmentation of difficult-to-obtain evidence has clarified that indoor dampness and mould can cause diverse health effects, ranging from novel advent of asthmatic conditions to eczema-like skin disturbances. The methodology used to evaluate indoor mould symptomatology shares some of the deficiencies that racked medical evaluations of causality during the SARS CoV 2 outbreak. Pertinent epidemiological connections may be obscured by an excessive positivistic demand for proof where the combination of valid evidence and judicious attention to the precautionary principle would better serve the community.},
}

Humans
*Mycoses/microbiology/epidemiology/immunology
Animals
*Fungi/drug effects/pathogenicity/immunology/classification
Drug Resistance, Fungal
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/microbiology/epidemiology
Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40388925,
year = {2025},
author = {Wei, P and Wang, X and Han, J and Zhang, X},
title = {A bibliometric and visualized analysis of ischemic optic neuropathy from 2014 to 2024.},
journal = {European journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {35},
number = {6},
pages = {2259-2271},
doi = {10.1177/11206721251343653},
pmid = {40388925},
issn = {1724-6016},
mesh = {Humans ; *Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Bibliometrics ; Tomography, Optical Coherence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {ObjectiveIschemic optic neuropathy (ION) is one of major causes of blindness or severe visual impairment. However, controversies persist regarding its pathogenesis, clinical features and management. This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis to provide an assessment of current status and emerging trends in the field of ION.MethodsPublications spanning from January 2014 to Jun 2024 were retrieved, using the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometric and visualized analyses were performed employing the bibliometrix, CiteSpace and VOSviewer.ResultsA total of 776 papers met the inclusion criteria and a fluctuated publication trend was observed. The United States was the leading country. Research topics in ION field encompassed non-arteritic anterior ION (NAION), optical coherence tomography angiography, neuroprotection, optical coherence tomography, spine surgery, giant cell arteritis (GCA), optic disc diameter, peripapillary hyperreflective ovoid mass-like structures, vaccination, and branch retinal vein occlusion, based on the co-citation references analysis. The keywords "COVID-19", "oxidative stress", "inflammation" and "optic neuritis" experienced burst lasting until 2024.ConclusionDuring the past decade, advancements in in vivo imaging techniques are continually enhancing our understanding of the pathogenesis of ION and facilitating accurate diagnosis. NAION has been a prominent research topic, covering its pathogenesis, clinical features, and management. Studies on arteritic ION and GCA have garnered widespread attention, especially due to advances in treatments. Future research is warranted to identify standardized therapies for non-arteritic ION, potentially incorporating neuroprotective agents, and to formulate steroid-sparing treatment strategies aimed at preventing vision loss in arteritic ION, rather than merely addressing GCA.},
}

Humans
*Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Bibliometrics
Tomography, Optical Coherence
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41136410,
year = {2025},
author = {Sherman, AC and Gray, GE and Cao, B and To, KKW and Rouphael, N and Henao-Restrepo, AM and Gordon, AC and Baden, LR},
title = {Acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Disease primers},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {75},
pmid = {41136410},
issn = {2056-676X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/physiopathology/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a respiratory pathogen that emerged in December 2019 and caused a global pandemic by March 2020, with >7 million deaths due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) globally as of September 2025. The clinical syndrome of COVID-19 ranges from asymptomatic infection to severe disease with pneumonia and death. SARS-CoV-2 variant type, inoculum, previous exposure and host factors influence the clinical trajectory. Identification of key structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2 and insights into the pathophysiology of the immune response to infection led to the development of effective preventive (vaccines and monoclonal antibodies) and therapeutic (antivirals and immunomodulatory agents) agents. Antiviral agents, such as remdesivir and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, inhibit viral replication and immunomodulatory agents, such as tocilizumab and baricitinib, act to reduce a dysregulated immune response to SARS-CoV-2. The pandemic had economic and socio-cultural consequences that affected the quality of life and overall life expectancy of individuals. As the emergency phase of the pandemic concludes, robust monitoring and surveillance systems must be sustained and research to improve vaccines and therapeutics must continue to maintain control of SARS-CoV-2 in the population and be prepared for emerging pathogens with pandemic potential.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/physiopathology/therapy
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
COVID-19 Vaccines
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid41135434,
year = {2025},
author = {Briggs, EE and Chau, IJ and Nguyen, SA and Pelic, JC and Harvey, EA and Meyer, TA},
title = {Acute mastoiditis in children during the Covid era: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology},
volume = {198},
number = {},
pages = {112613},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijporl.2025.112613},
pmid = {41135434},
issn = {1872-8464},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatric acute mastoiditis (AM).

DATA SOURCES: CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus.

METHODS: Literature was searched from 2014 to 2025 for articles reporting AM in children. Specific outcomes included clinical presentation, bacterial epidemiology, complications, and management. Primary outcome measures included continuous measures (mean), proportions (%), mean difference (Δ), and relative risk (RR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS: There were seven included studies (N = 1001 children) with 632 patients in the pre-COVID cohort and 369 in the COVID-era cohort. There was a significant difference in the proportion of intracranial complications with a 20 % greater risk of having an intracranial complication after the COVID pandemic than before (RR: 1.2 [95 % CI: 0.6-2.3], p = 0.0097). There was also a significant decrease in the proportion of cases treated conservatively with antibiotics after the pandemic (mean difference 10.8 % [95 % CI: 2.9 %-18.0 %], p < 0.01). Bacterial epidemiology also experienced a significant shift in composition following the pandemic.

CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in intracranial complications in pediatric AM, with fewer cases being treated solely with antibiotics. Additionally, the pandemic has altered the bacterial epidemiological patterns of AM, highlighting opportunities for further investigation into the characteristics of AM during and after this period to inform and improve future management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41134172,
year = {2025},
author = {Alshareefi, AH and Zaid, MH and Hamdi, HA and Zaylaee, SY and Muthaffar, IY and Salim, AM and Aqeely, EA and Alaqi, SM and Madkhali, HA and Hedari, GF and Hadadi, RA and Shajeri, SM and Harjah, MA},
title = {A Systematic Review of COVID-19 Vaccination Side Effects, Acceptance, and Attitudes Among Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia.},
journal = {British journal of hospital medicine (London, England : 2005)},
volume = {86},
number = {10},
pages = {1-18},
doi = {10.12968/hmed.2024.0837},
pmid = {41134172},
issn = {1750-8460},
mesh = {Humans ; Saudi Arabia/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/statistics & numerical data/psychology ; *Vaccination/adverse effects/psychology ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care ; },
abstract = {Aims/Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted global health and the economy. Vaccination is crucial for controlling its spread, and healthcare workers (HCWs) in Saudi Arabia prioritize vaccination. This systematic review aimed to: (1) evaluate the reported side effects of COVID-19 vaccines among HCWs in Saudi, (2) assess vaccine acceptance rates and their temporal changes, and (3) identify the factors influencing vaccine uptake and hesitancy. Methods We conducted a systematic review following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The protocol included: (1) systematic searching of five major databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) up to 25 November 2024; (2) independent screening and selection by three reviewers using predefined inclusion criteria; (3) quality assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool; and (4) standardized data extraction and synthesis focusing on vaccine side effects, acceptance rates, and influencing factors among healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia. Results Of the 220 citations, 30 met the inclusion criteria. Studies have revealed predominantly mild to moderate side effects, with severity patterns varying by professional role and demographic factors. Vaccine acceptance showed significant improvement over time, which was attributed to public health campaigns, peer influence, and improved accessibility. Higher acceptance was correlated with professional experience and education levels, while hesitancy stemmed from safety concerns and efficacy doubts. Conclusion Understanding these patterns supports the development of targeted interventions, suggesting a need for evidence-based communication and peer-led education programs. Healthcare institutions should focus on transparent safety communication and address specific misconceptions to enhance vaccine confidence among HCWs.},
}

Humans
Saudi Arabia/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Vaccination Hesitancy/statistics & numerical data/psychology
*Vaccination/adverse effects/psychology
*Attitude of Health Personnel
SARS-CoV-2
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care

@article {pmid41133205,
year = {2025},
author = {Báscolo, E and Houghton, N and Bennett, S},
title = {Political economy of primary health care resilience in Latin America and the Caribbean: insights from the WB/PAHO Commission recommendations.},
journal = {Lancet regional health. Americas},
volume = {50},
number = {},
pages = {101241},
pmid = {41133205},
issn = {2667-193X},
abstract = {The World Bank-PAHO Lancet Regional Health Americas Commission, launched in January 2024, aims to transform primary health care (PHC) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) to enhance resilience against public health emergencies. The Commission's 2025 report offer recommendations to strengthen integrated care, community empowerment, resilient financing, and intersectoral collaboration. Implementing these recommendations requires understanding political and economic factors. Political economy analysis provides insights into how stakeholder interests, institutions, ideologies, and political dynamics affect health policy implementation. Key factors include the influence of interest groups, the role of institutions, the conceptualization of PHC, and political ideologies. Historical legacies and institutional path dependence often hinder reform, but crises like the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the importance of robust, equitable health systems. Addressing political polarization and strengthening social participation will be crucial for building resilient PHC systems that respond to future health crises. Policymakers and advocates must consider these factors to implement the Commission's recommendations effectively.},
}

@article {pmid41132774,
year = {2025},
author = {Tarasenko, A and Josy, G and Minnis, H and Hall, J and Danese, A and Lau, JYF and Cortese, S and Stringaris, A and Redlich, C and Ougrin, D},
title = {Mental health of children and young people in the WHO Europe region.},
journal = {The Lancet regional health. Europe},
volume = {57},
number = {},
pages = {101459},
pmid = {41132774},
issn = {2666-7762},
abstract = {Most mental health disorders start before adulthood. They are highly prevalent, disabling and often treatable. This Series paper discusses the current problems that contribute to the growing child, adolescent and youth mental health crisis in Europe. These include the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating military conflicts, the climate crisis, and unregulated digital environments. Mental health problems in youths are further compounded by a changing landscape of how children and young people engage with the world, healthcare and other services. We outline a comprehensive list of recommendations to address mental health problems through the integration of creative prevention and treatment approaches with the help of community-based services and support systems, as well as robust research and implementation strategies to ensure cost-effective, evidence-based care.},
}

@article {pmid41132488,
year = {2025},
author = {Xue, J and Wang, X and Wang, H and Qiao, B and Gao, P and Ren, B and Yan, S},
title = {Unraveled role of TLR7-mediated interferon signaling activation in COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1658249},
pmid = {41132488},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Toll-Like Receptor 7/immunology/metabolism ; *Signal Transduction/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Interferons/immunology/metabolism ; Immunity, Innate ; Adaptive Immunity ; Animals ; Autoantibodies/immunology ; },
abstract = {Emerging evidence underscores the critical role of Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7)-mediated interferon (IFN) signaling in host defense against viral infections including SARS-CoV-2, through the modulation of both innate and adaptive immunity. However, the specific mechanisms by which TLR7 activation shapes SARS-CoV-2-specific immune responses, particularly via IRF-IFN pathways, remain incompletely elucidated. This review synthesizes current findings on how intrinsic TLR7-driven IFN signaling influences viral clearance, modulates adaptive immunity, and contributes to autoantibody production in COVID-19. A deeper understanding of these processes is essential for developing targeted therapeutic interventions and improved vaccines aimed at mitigating severe COVID-19 and preventing post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Toll-Like Receptor 7/immunology/metabolism
*Signal Transduction/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Interferons/immunology/metabolism
Immunity, Innate
Adaptive Immunity
Animals
Autoantibodies/immunology

@article {pmid41132374,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, L and Jin, S and Ma, D and Liu, Z and Ye, J and Liu, Q},
title = {The global trends and clinical progress in influenza co-infection: a visualization and bibliometric analysis (2005-2025).},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1658752},
pmid = {41132374},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Influenza co-infection, characterized by concurrent or sequential infection with influenza and other pathogens, lacks comprehensive quantitative analysis. This study evaluates the status, key hotspots, and clinical advancements in influenza co-infection research from 2005 to 2025 to guide future investigations.

METHODS: We analyzed articles from 2005 to 2025 sourced from the Web of Science database using R, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Concurrently, we extracted clinical trials from PubMed within the same timeframe to assess advancements in the field.

RESULTS: The study analyzed 3,058 articles, noting a consistent rise in publications on influenza co-infection from 2005 to 2025, with a significant spike between 2020 and 2021. The United States led in publication numbers, followed by China, Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. Among these, the United Kingdom exhibited the highest international collaboration. Key collaborative centers included the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Emory University, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. "PLOS ONE" and "BMC Infectious Diseases" published the most articles, while "Journal of Virology" and "Journal of Infectious Diseases" were the most cited. Keywords such as "infection", "virus", "COVID-19", "children", and "respiratory syncytial virus" highlighted research hotspots and emerging trends in influenza co-infection. The study of pathogenic mechanisms and immune interactions in influenza-bacterial co-infection remains crucial. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified research on the epidemiological shifts and clinical impacts of co-infection. Emphasis has also been placed on the significance of pediatric populations in influenza and respiratory viral co-infections. Clinical trials have mainly targeted preventive strategies for high-risk groups and the effects of influenza vaccination on the respiratory microbiome.

CONCLUSION: This study comprehensively analyzes the current research landscape and identifies key hotspots in influenza co-infection. The findings offer crucial guidance for future studies in this field.},
}

@article {pmid41132120,
year = {2025},
author = {Elson, WH and Forbes, A and Jamie, G and Wimalaratna, R and Morbey, R and Hobbs, FDR and de Lusignan, S and Bernal, JL},
title = {A Systematic Review of the Markers of Severity in Acute Respiratory Infections to Inform Primary Care Surveillance.},
journal = {Influenza and other respiratory viruses},
volume = {19},
number = {10},
pages = {e70172},
doi = {10.1111/irv.70172},
pmid = {41132120},
issn = {1750-2659},
support = {//UKHSA/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Primary Health Care ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/pathology ; Severity of Illness Index ; Biomarkers/analysis ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Acute Disease ; Public Health Surveillance ; Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Primary care computerised medical records (CMR) are used to report the incidence of acute respiratory infections (ARI) for public health surveillance. These systems could increase their utility by also reporting population-level severity of ARI; however, this is rarely done.

OBJECTIVES: To identify candidate markers of ARI severity suitable for use in primary care CMR-based surveillance.

METHODS: We undertook a systematic review of bibliographic databases and grey literature. Eligible studies reported characteristics for > 500 patients with ARI, severe ARI, influenza-like illness or suspected COVID-19. Studies had to report at least one potential marker of severity. A panel of clinical primary care informaticians reviewed candidate severity markers and assessed each for severity, specificity, relevance to primary care and whether it was likely to be recorded in a CMR.

RESULTS: We included 126 studies from 84 countries. Seventy-seven candidate severity markers were identified across 11 groups. These included four outcome groups (complications, hospital events, intensive care events and death) and seven predictor groups (symptoms, signs, scores, investigations, treatments, absenteeism and treatment-seeking behaviour). Thirty markers were considered most suitable for primary care CMR-based ARI surveillance: 7 outcomes (such as hospital admission, attendance and death) and 23 predictors (such as shortness of breath, oxygen levels, work absence and antibiotics). Predictors were generally considered more timely, as they are likely recorded during the consultation.

CONCLUSIONS: This review provides a list of severity markers that could support the development of population-level severity indicators for ARI surveillance in primary care. This could improve real-time situational awareness during respiratory outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*Primary Health Care
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/pathology
Severity of Illness Index
Biomarkers/analysis
COVID-19/epidemiology
Acute Disease
Public Health Surveillance
Influenza, Human/epidemiology

@article {pmid41131594,
year = {2025},
author = {Trojnacki, A and Nguinkal, JA and May, J and Rainer, K and Duscher, GG and Winkelmayer, L and Ungureanu, A and Jaho, E and Vlachostergiou, A and Suciu, G and Stalidi, C and Marcu, L and Annus, H and Kamdron, K and Aasamäe, A and Groschup, M and Dietze, K and Knauf, S and Keller, M and Mellou, K and Politi, L and Neubauer, G and Ignjatović, D and Melo, AM and Peham, JR and Affara, M and Gehre, F},
title = {Assessing rapid response mobile laboratory (RRML) capacities in Europe and Africa to improve One Health disease surveillance activities and pandemic preparedness across two continents.},
journal = {One health outlook},
volume = {7},
number = {1},
pages = {53},
pmid = {41131594},
issn = {2524-4655},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Europe and Africa are increasingly affected by (re-)emerging risk group 3 and 4, zoonotic viral disease epidemics, which not only require diagnostic BSL-3/4 laboratory capacity but also a One Health-based control strategy for efficient outbreak containment. In many European and African countries such laboratory capacity is often not readily available, and rapid response mobile laboratories (RRMLs) can play important, complementary roles in outbreak responses and pandemic preparedness activities on national, regional and international level.

MAIN BODY: The aim of the present review was to assess whether existing European and African RRML infrastructure is prepared for future One Health outbreak responses and to identify potential diagnostic gaps. Based on a literature review (2007-2021), we identified 291 mobile laboratories (Europe: 192, Africa: 99) and assessed them in respect to purpose (e.g. military, civilian), design (suitcase, modular, vehicle mounted), biosafety level, laboratory equipment, diagnostic portfolio, sample types analyzed (human, animal) and quality assurance measures. Following peaks in 2014 (Ebola/West Africa) and 2020 (COVID-19), mobile laboratory numbers have steadily increased. Whilst laboratories were originally designed to diagnose viral haemorrhagic fevers, there has been an increased focus on SARS-CoV-2 since 2020. Recently, there was a shift of African countries to develop an independent mobile laboratory capacity, rather than relying on external support for outbreak responses.

CONCLUSION: We identified key shortcomings of existing laboratories, as the majority only process samples of human origin (not compliant with One Health principles), only 5% have sufficient capacity to diagnose emerging risk group 3/4 (arbo)viruses, 1-10% have accredited quality assurance systems in place, and mobile laboratories are not interconnected to allow concerted national and international responses. Our results reveal the gaps that should be addressed to make future responses to zoonotic, high-consequence pathogens more effective.},
}

@article {pmid41131532,
year = {2025},
author = {Ogieuhi, IJ and Ajekiigbe, VO and Agbo, CE and Anthony, CS and Christopher, AA and Onyehalu, JC and Agu, MC and Mbaji, SM and Akingbola, A and Ahmed, B and Ogieuhi, O and Akinmeji, O},
title = {COVID-19 infection and cancer regression: a review of current evidence, potential mechanisms, and clinical perspectives on a Paradoxical phenomenon.},
journal = {Infectious agents and cancer},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {74},
pmid = {41131532},
issn = {1750-9378},
abstract = {Since its emergence, the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak has been a pandemic responsible for about 7 million deaths worldwide. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the virus's multiorgan system involvement, particularly its relation to cancer biology. Spontaneous regression of cancer has been observed in some patients with the coronavirus, which may be attributed to the virus's ability to trigger specific immune responses that can be oncolytic and help reduce and eliminate oncogenic cells. This study aims to explore the paradoxical effects of COVID-19 in inducing cancer regression. The paradoxical effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been attributed to the possibility of a heightened immune activation possibly triggered by the virus, and some of these include increased levels of cytokines such as interferon and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), as well as the activation of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. COVID-19-induced cancer regression presents new perspectives on the relationship between viral infections and the immune system's antitumor capabilities. This would help foster future research investigating specific immune pathways activated during SARS-CoV-2 and discover how these can be therapeutically harnessed to aid cancer regression.},
}

@article {pmid40839033,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, L and Li, M and Niu, T and Chang, H},
title = {Anti-plasma cell therapy in patients with monoclonal gammopathy-associated refractory pure red cell aplasia: A report of three cases and literature review.},
journal = {Annals of hematology},
volume = {104},
number = {9},
pages = {4837-4841},
pmid = {40839033},
issn = {1432-0584},
support = {No. ZYAI24039//1.3.5 Project for Artificial Intelligence/ ; No. 82370192, U24A20680//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Red-Cell Aplasia, Pure/etiology/therapy/drug therapy ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Dexamethasone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; Aged ; Lenalidomide/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/complications/therapy ; *Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance/complications/therapy/drug therapy ; Bortezomib/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Male ; *Plasma Cells/immunology ; *Paraproteinemias/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Acquired pure red cell aplasia (aPRCA) is a clinical syndrome that may be secondary to a diverse array of diseases. It is rarely secondary to monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Currently, there is no consensus on when to initiate anti-plasma cell therapy. This study reports three cases of patients with MGUS-associated aPRCA who responded to anti-plasma cell therapy after failing conventional immunosuppressive treatment. Patient 1 achieved complete remission after treatment with the BD (bortezomib and dexamethasone) and BRD (bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone) regimens. She subsequently received lenalidomide as maintenance treatment. She has remained in treatment-free survival (TFS) for 22 months to date. Patient 2 achieved complete remission after treatment with the BRD regimen and was maintained with lenalidomide. She has maintained TFS for 16 months so far. Patient 3 was treated with the BD regimen and became transfusion-independent, but relapsed after treatment discontinuation due to COVID-19 infection.This study suggests that anti-plasma cell therapy may be an effective strategy for aPRCA patients unresponsive to conventional immunosuppressive therapy and exhibiting monoclonal protein (M-protein). However, further studies are needed to explore the optimal timing and duration of such therapy.},
}

Humans
*Red-Cell Aplasia, Pure/etiology/therapy/drug therapy
Female
Middle Aged
Dexamethasone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
Aged
Lenalidomide/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
COVID-19/complications/therapy
*Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance/complications/therapy/drug therapy
Bortezomib/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Male
*Plasma Cells/immunology
*Paraproteinemias/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41129928,
year = {2025},
author = {Atlas, D},
title = {Targeting neurodegeneration and inflammation with thioredoxin-mimetic peptides.},
journal = {Redox biology},
volume = {87},
number = {},
pages = {103899},
doi = {10.1016/j.redox.2025.103899},
pmid = {41129928},
issn = {2213-2317},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative and degenerative disorders are in part, driven by imbalances in cellular inflammatory and oxidation-reduction (redox) states. This vulnerability triggers the activation of highly selective and tightly regulated cellular defense networks against oxidative stress (OS), primarily involving the glutathione (GSH) and the thioredoxin (Trx) enzymatic complexes. These systems operate through reversible oxidation/reduction reactions involving the thiol groups of cysteine (Cys) residues, maintaining redox homeostasis and protecting cells from oxidative damage. To reinforce this defense under pathological conditions, a family of thioredoxin-mimetic (TXM) tri- and tetra-peptides was developed, based on the redox-active sequence motif of thioredoxin. These low-molecular-weight amino peptides each bearing two thiol groups, serve as a versatile platform of diverse redox-active molecules. Structurally optimized with blocked N- and C-termini, the TXM peptides exhibit enhanced cell permeability and are capable of crossing the blood-brain-barrier (BBB), thereby enabling therapeutic protection in both systemic degenerative and neurodegenerative disorders. Upon cellular entry, TXM peptides may undergo hydrolysis, potentially generating a cluster of 10-15 Cys-containing fragments including Cys, a precursor of GSH, which could further enhance and prolong their redox activity. This review summarizes key findings on the functional activity of various TXM-peptides, as demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo models. Particular emphasis is given to TXM-CB3, which has shown protective effects across a wide range of animal models, including those of asthma, mild traumatic brain injury, obesity, viral infection, epilepsy, wound healing, myocardial infarction, aging, and inflammatory bowel-disease. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of TXM-peptides in protecting cellular function under diverse pathological conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41129757,
year = {2025},
author = {Ameratunga, R and Leung, EY and Woon, ST and Lea, E and Chan, L and Mehrtens, JA and Longhurst, HJ and Steele, R and Lehnert, K},
title = {COVID-19 is a living example of Darwinian natural selection, and SARS-CoV-2 evolution is occurring under (and in) our noses.},
journal = {The New Zealand medical journal},
volume = {138},
number = {162},
pages = {65-75},
doi = {10.26635/6965.7039},
pmid = {41129757},
issn = {1175-8716},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *Selection, Genetic ; Pandemics ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Betacoronavirus/genetics ; *Pneumonia, Viral/virology/epidemiology ; Biological Evolution ; },
abstract = {This review explores COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) from the perspective of Darwinian natural selection and consequent evolution of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2). COVID-19 has caused unprecedented societal and economic turmoil. The human host population has responded with widespread vaccination, therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, convalescent plasma and antiviral drugs. SARS-CoV-2 has demonstrated remarkable resilience and has been able to quickly adapt to its rapidly changing habitat. SARS-CoV-2 has generated new antibody and vaccine evasive mutations in its genome, while simultaneously optimising its infectivity by improving its affinity to the ACE2 receptor and host proteases. Molecular analysis of SARS-CoV-2 has demonstrated natural selection of advantageous mutations in both individual patients with chronic COVID-19 infection and at a host population level, leading to extinction of less fit strains. COVID-19 is living proof of Darwinian evolution, which is occurring in observable time rather than over millions of years. Viewing COVID-19 from an evolutionary perspective will help mitigate the current and future pandemics. The aim of this article is to illustrate these concepts, using examples from the human host peer-reviewed literature.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*Selection, Genetic
Pandemics
Evolution, Molecular
*Betacoronavirus/genetics
*Pneumonia, Viral/virology/epidemiology
Biological Evolution

@article {pmid41129423,
year = {2025},
author = {Yılmaz, M and Gökçe, A and Öztürk, O},
title = {What Is the Real Impact of Smoking on Diseases Alleged to Benefit from It?.},
journal = {European addiction research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.1159/000549064},
pmid = {41129423},
issn = {1421-9891},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cigarette smoking is a major preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite its well-known harms, epidemiological studies have reported potential protective associations between smoking and certain diseases, necessitating a critical appraisal of these claims.

SUMMARY: This review evaluates evidence on smoking's impact across eight conditions: endometrial carcinoma, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Parkinson's disease, uterine leiomyoma, preeclampsia, COVID-19, and psychological stress. While observational data suggest inverse associations in some cases, such effects are often modest, mechanistically unclear, and confounded by biases. The review underscores the scarcity of randomized clinical trials and highlights the complexity of disentangling nicotine's biological actions from the broader toxic effects of tobacco smoke.

KEY MESSAGES: The potential "protective" effects of smoking do not outweigh its well-established detrimental health consequences. Smoking cessation remains paramount, and further rigorous clinical research is needed to clarify these paradoxical findings and to explore the therapeutic potential of nicotine independent of tobacco use.},
}

@article {pmid41129047,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohiuddin, M and Asghar, T and Hameed, H and Din, AM and Siddique, A and Younas, S and Mohi Ud Din, M and Ara, R},
title = {The psychobiotic revolution: comprehending the optimistic role of gut microbiota on gut-brain axis during neurological and Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {41},
number = {10},
pages = {401},
pmid = {41129047},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; *Gastrointestinal Diseases/microbiology/therapy ; *Brain ; *Nervous System Diseases/microbiology/therapy ; *Brain-Gut Axis ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System ; COVID-19 ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a complex central nexus, intricately communicating with human health, affecting neurophysiological and cognitive processes. In this review article, the therapeutic potential of psychobiotics is comprehensively examined as a relatively new category of probiotics that have been shown to have beneficial effects on mental health, particularly in the context of the increasing prevalence of neurological and gastrointestinal pathologies in developing economies particularly Pakistan. This current discussion examines the pathways through which psychobiotics are postulated to influence their beneficial effect such as their role in biosynthesis of neuroactive substances, the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and inflammatory response. Some specific strains of bacteria including Lactobacillus plantarum PS128, Lactobacillus helveticus NS8, Bifidobacterium longum 1714, Lactobacillus rhamnosus (JB-1), and Bifidobacterium infantis (35624) play an important role in overcoming anxiety and mood disorders. The neuroactive chemicals (gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and serotonin) are extracted from gut microbes and have the ability to alter the brain activity. Other metabolites and intermediate substances, such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier and control the immune system and inflammatory response. The psychobiotic food pyramid aims to protect gut and mental health while psychobiotic supplements are been known to alleviate chronic stress and anxiety. They are used to treat different types of mental conditions, such as neurodegenerative, neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and GI disorders as well. Mental health disorders (with depression having the highest percentage) are increasing in various countries including Pakistan every day, with women being affected more than men. The review incorporates existing evidence based on both preclinical and clinical studies and clarifies the nexus of critical importance between the disorder of gut microbiota and the pathogenesis of mental health disorders that were aggravated in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional research is imperative in determining the long-term effectiveness and safety of psychobiotic interventions, particularly against a diverse population and different socioeconomic environments. This study therefore, contributes to highlighting the tremendous potential of psychobiotics as a cost-effective and innovative approach to supplementing traditional mental healthcare modalities.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Probiotics/therapeutic use
*Gastrointestinal Diseases/microbiology/therapy
*Brain
*Nervous System Diseases/microbiology/therapy
*Brain-Gut Axis
Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System
COVID-19
Animals

@article {pmid41127824,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, HB and Xu, AM and Qiu, HB and Chao, J and Zhao, S},
title = {Single-Cell Sequencing Redefines Immune Heterogeneity and Communication Networks in ARDS: Toward Precision Therapeutics.},
journal = {International journal of genomics},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {9902676},
pmid = {41127824},
issn = {2314-4378},
abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a critical condition characterized by diffuse alveolar damage and intense inflammatory responses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its incidence and mortality have remained persistently high. Conventional approaches have struggled to uncover the complex cellular heterogeneity and dynamic inflammatory networks underlying ARDS. The advent of single-cell sequencing technologies has revolutionized our ability to dissect the molecular mechanisms of ARDS. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the application of single-cell sequencing in studying pulmonary inflammation in ARDS, with a focus on its strengths in elucidating immune cell heterogeneity, reconstructing intercellular communication networks, and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Furthermore, we discuss current technical limitations and translational challenges, aiming to provide a theoretical foundation and future direction for translating mechanistic insights into precision medicine for ARDS.},
}

@article {pmid41127349,
year = {2025},
author = {Shabbir, R and Shabbir, Z and Parente, PEL and Azad, A},
title = {Vaccine hesitancy and bone health: Musculoskeletal sequelae of vaccine-preventable diseases.},
journal = {Osteoporosis and sarcopenia},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {83-91},
pmid = {41127349},
issn = {2405-5263},
abstract = {Vaccine hesitancy threatens global health by diminishing herd immunity and permitting the return of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) including poliomyelitis, measles and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These infections carry short-term and long-term musculoskeletal consequences, such as paralysis, limb deformities, septic or reactive arthritis, osteomyelitis and chronic pain, that place an ever increasing burden on orthopaedic services. This narrative review synthesizes clinical and epidemiological evidence linking sub-optimal immunization to orthopaedic morbidity caused by major VPDs. Outbreak data show that low vaccination coverage precipitates spikes in invasive bacterial disease after varicella, post-polio deformities, tetanus-related fractures, rubella-associated arthritis and COVID-19-related avascular necrosis (AVN). This impact is amplified in rapidly ageing regions such as Asia, where the population ≥ 60 years will nearly double by 2050, significantly increasing the prevalence of sarcopenia and osteoporosis that exacerbate VPD complications. Although orthopaedic surgeons are not primary vaccinators, they routinely manage these downstream effects and hold a trusted position in society from which they are able to strongly advocate for immunization. Integrating brief vaccine counselling, perioperative vaccination checks, and public health initiatives into orthopaedic practice can improve uptake and reduce preventable disability. Strengthening immunization programs and countering hesitancy are essentially critical not only for infection control but also for safeguarding a rapidly declining global musculoskeletal health. A coordinated strategy involving public-health authorities, primary-care providers, and specialists, including orthopaedic surgeons, is essential to mitigate vaccine hesitancy and its orthopaedic sequelae.},
}

@article {pmid41127248,
year = {2025},
author = {Ebrahimi, B and Kargar Jahromi, H and Shafiei Jahromi, N and Molayem, M},
title = {A Systematic Review of Ocular Complications Following Different Types of Covid-19 Vaccines.},
journal = {Journal of immunology research},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {8766021},
pmid = {41127248},
issn = {2314-7156},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; *Eye Diseases/etiology ; *Uveitis/etiology/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: More than 6 million deaths from the novel coronavirus, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, have prompted the development of several prophylactic vaccines of COVID-19. This systematic review summarizes the ocular complications of various COVID-19 vaccinations, diseases diagnosed, treatment, and risk factors.

METHODS: The search was done in PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), and Google Scholar databases. Manifestations were classified depending on the type of vaccines and the interval between vaccination and the onset of symptoms. Other data such as patients' age, gender, underlying diseases, and follow-up data were also extracted.

RESULTS: Initially, 10,242 articles were identified and 76 articles were eligible that among them 107 cases were reported. Ocular complications were diagnosed more often in Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) recipients than in others.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review highlights a wide range of ocular complications reported after COVID-19 vaccination, the most common of which is uveitis. While most cases were mild and self-limiting, some involved reactivation of preexisting inflammatory diseases. These findings emphasize the importance of postvaccination ocular surveillance. This is particularly important in individuals with a history of ocular inflammation and suggests a potential immunological mechanism that requires further investigation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccination/adverse effects
*Eye Diseases/etiology
*Uveitis/etiology/epidemiology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid41126833,
year = {2025},
author = {Maggi, E and Landolina, N and Mariotti, FR and Munari, E and Tumino, N and Vacca, P and Azzarone, B and Moretta, L},
title = {The innate immune response in SARS-CoV2 infection: focus on toll-like receptor 4 in severe disease outcomes.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1658396},
pmid = {41126833},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Toll-Like Receptor 4/immunology/metabolism ; Animals ; Signal Transduction ; Killer Cells, Natural/immunology ; },
abstract = {Innate immunity is the first line of defense against infections, including the detection and response to SARS-CoV-2. Cells of the innate system are usually activated within hours after pathogen exposure and do not generate conventional immunological memory. In this review, the current knowledge of the innate immune cells and of pattern-recognition receptors in sensing and responding to SARS-CoV-2 to mount a protective response has been shortly reviewed. Subsequently, the evasion strategies of the virus, as the inhibition of IFN-I/III production and autophagic response, counteracting the innate cell activity (including NK cells), have been briefly outlined. In the course of the infection, these strategies are also capable of rendering dysfunctional most innate cells, thus deeply interfering with the onset and maintenance of adaptive immunity. Possible mechanism(s) for the maintenance of dysfunctional innate immune response are also discussed. In this context, the importance of a rapid and robust activation of innate immunity through toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 as a key paradigm central to host defense against COVID-19 pathogenesis is also illustrated. We also discuss how the viral excess plus inflammatory signals upregulating TLR4 on innate cells may initiate a vicious loop which maintains and improves hyperinflammation, leading to the most critical outcomes. Targeting the TLR4 or its signaling pathway may be a promising therapeutic strategy, offering the dual benefits of viral suppression and decreasing inflammation.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Toll-Like Receptor 4/immunology/metabolism
Animals
Signal Transduction
Killer Cells, Natural/immunology

@article {pmid41125407,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Yuan, B and Fang, Y and Zhao, C and Liu, J and Xiong, K},
title = {Post-tuberculosis morbidities and their associated mortality: moving from challenges to solutions.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {34},
number = {178},
pages = {},
pmid = {41125407},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; Risk Factors ; *Tuberculosis/mortality ; Antitubercular Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Morbidity ; *Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/mortality ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {The case fatality of tuberculosis (TB) has progressively decreased since the use of antibiotics in anti-TB treatment, leaving 155 million TB survivors alive in 2020. Of the 122 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to TB in 2019, 58 million DALYs were attributed to the post-TB phase. TB causes massive lung structure damage, declined lung function and excessive inflammation, which persist even after microbiological cure and predispose to multiple lung diseases (e.g. COPD, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, bronchiectasis and COVID-19). TB survivors also face a higher risk of cancers and cardiovascular diseases. These post-TB morbidities together with worse psychological and socioeconomic status lead to poor quality of life and a three- to four-fold higher mortality rate than the general population. Understanding the epidemiology of post-TB morbidities can help to set intervention and research priorities to lower public health burdens associated with post-TB morbidities. In this narrative review, we summarise what we know and do not know about the prevalence, risk factors and management of post-TB morbidities and their associated mortality. We identify the major post-TB morbidities based on current evidence. Delayed or incomplete TB treatment, residual lung structure damage and prolonged inflammation after TB treatment are important risk factors. Developing host-directed therapies to reduce lung structure damage, smoking cessation, implementing pulmonary rehabilitation to improve lung function and adopting well-tailored preventive strategies and screening protocols may improve the management of these post-TB morbidities and mortality and warrant future research.},
}

Humans
Risk Factors
*Tuberculosis/mortality
Antitubercular Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Morbidity
*Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/mortality
Prevalence

@article {pmid40329717,
year = {2025},
author = {Parwani, S and Upreti, S and Mishra, CK and Tripathi, A and Chakraborty, S and Tiwari, S},
title = {Navigating the COVID-19 Treatment Landscape: Efficacy and Side-Effects of Current Therapies against SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Current HIV research},
volume = {23},
number = {3},
pages = {145-160},
doi = {10.2174/011570162X338375250414114957},
pmid = {40329717},
issn = {1873-4251},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *HIV Infections/complications/immunology/drug therapy ; Drug Repositioning ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the highly contagious severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in late 2019 in Wuhan, China. Designated as an epidemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 30, 2020, the virus quickly escalated to a global emergency, officially declared a pandemic in March 2020. With over 6 million recorded deaths and more than 200 identified symptoms in diverse individuals, the impact of COVID-19 is substantial. COVID-19 poses a greater risk to individuals with advanced HIV, while those with well-managed HIV are not at increased risk. Although COVID-19 vaccines are generally effective for people with HIV, some may experience reduced vaccine effectiveness and breakthrough infections due to suboptimal immune responses. Long COVID, affecting at least 65 million individuals, adds a layer of complexity. The virus's rapid mutation has led to diverse symptomatology, prompting adjustments in treatment guidelines. This review comprehensively examines repurposed antiviral drug candidates against COVID-19, explores immune responses across different age groups, delves into the mechanisms of COVID-19 vaccines, and discusses potential immunosuppressants. Additionally, the focus extends to Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG), steroids, and anti-cytokine therapy as promising avenues to address cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a critical condition in COVID-19 patients.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*HIV Infections/complications/immunology/drug therapy
Drug Repositioning

@article {pmid40008994,
year = {2025},
author = {Kitajima, M and Abe, H and Honda, R and Kobayashi, H and Kuroita, T and Nemoto, A and Shirakashi, R and Scott, R and Furuta, K},
title = {Biobanking: Possibilities for Wastewater-Based Epidemiology.},
journal = {Biopreservation and biobanking},
volume = {23},
number = {5},
pages = {387-395},
doi = {10.1089/bio.2024.0118},
pmid = {40008994},
issn = {1947-5543},
mesh = {Humans ; *Wastewater/virology/microbiology ; *Biological Specimen Banks/ethics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Public Health ; Pandemics ; *Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, spanning from early 2020 to late 2022, posed unprecedented challenges for global public health. However, it also spurred innovative approaches to pandemic management, notably the development of pathogen detection in wastewater. It was successfully demonstrated that wastewater analysis can not only reflect ongoing COVID-19 infections but also serve as an early indicator of disease prevalence within communities. Recognizing the value of longitudinal analyses of various pathogens, we identified the need for wastewater biobanking. This practice allows for the retrospective analysis of samples, offering critical public health insights at the population level. Moreover, the potential to transport and store biobanked samples at ambient temperature or in a dry state could greatly enhance the utility of this technology, especially in resource-limited settings such as low- and middle-income countries. This article also addresses the ethical considerations and public health implications of wastewater-based epidemiology. While this approach holds significant potential beyond pathogen detection, it is essential to evaluate the benefits and potential risks carefully.},
}

Humans
*Wastewater/virology/microbiology
*Biological Specimen Banks/ethics
*COVID-19/epidemiology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Public Health
Pandemics
*Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring

@article {pmid41124269,
year = {2025},
author = {Forgham, H and Chang, Y and Wang, Y and Zhu, J and Liu, L and Biggs, H and Kakinen, A and Jiang, Y and You, X and Thurecht, KJ and Ma, S and Ju, LA and Tao, W and Davis, TP and Wong, JY and Qiao, R},
title = {The evolution of nanomedicine: The rise of next-generation nanomaterials in cancer nanomedicine.},
journal = {Science advances},
volume = {11},
number = {43},
pages = {eadx1576},
doi = {10.1126/sciadv.adx1576},
pmid = {41124269},
issn = {2375-2548},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nanomedicine/methods/trends ; *Neoplasms/therapy/drug therapy ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Nanostructures/chemistry/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The nanomedicine field continues to gain momentum, with several groundbreaking clinical trials underway. However, despite the promise of advanced antifouling nanoparticles incorporating poly(ethylene glycol)-a key component in the development of COVID-19 vaccines-the clinical translation of nanomedicine remains limited. This is primarily due to the relatively low delivery efficacy, with passive targeting relying on the enhanced permeability and retention effect, and active targeting leading to only modest improvements in target tissue accumulation. Improving the targeting, biocompatibility, and functionality of nanoparticles has the potential to create more effective, personalized, and minimally invasive therapies. This review aims to highlight the rise of a previously unidentified order of immune-minded nanomaterials and explores how mechanobiological principles and biomechanical nanotools are revolutionizing our understanding of nano-bio interactions in relation to disease. By considering mechanical properties such as stiffness, surface topology, and behavior under physiological flow conditions, researchers can better engineer nanoparticles for improved therapeutic outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Nanomedicine/methods/trends
*Neoplasms/therapy/drug therapy
COVID-19/prevention & control
Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Nanostructures/chemistry/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Delivery Systems
Animals

@article {pmid41123220,
year = {2025},
author = {Moore, TJ and Socal, MP and Anderson, G},
title = {Developing New Drugs for the COVID-19 Emergency: Anatomy of the U.S. Response.},
journal = {Pharmacotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/phar.70070},
pmid = {41123220},
issn = {1875-9114},
abstract = {CONTEXT: To meet the need for effective treatments during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the U.S. government sought to accelerate the discovery and development of new antiviral treatments-a process that normally took 4-12 years. The government changed many features of the established system, selecting the investigational drugs, sponsoring or conducting the clinical testing, and purchasing and managing the distribution of the successful products.

METHODS: We focused on novel therapeutic agents for COVID-19 that were funded, clinically tested, and/or received Emergency Use Authorization during the Public Health Emergency from January 2020 to May 2023. The primary sources were the public records of the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority. Excluded were vaccines, devices, diagnostic tests, and new indications for approved drugs.

RESULTS: In less than 24 months, the emergency program developed, tested, approved, and distributed eight new therapeutic products, including six monoclonal antibodies and two new oral antivirals. In addition, 11 other investigational agents were funded or tested under the emergency program but did not receive Emergency Use Authorization. More than 30 million courses of treatment were distributed at a cost of $29 billion or $881 per patient. By the end of the emergency, viral mutations and rapidly growing population immunity rendered the new products ineffective in almost all patients.

CONCLUSIONS: The emergency program was dramatically effective in finding and testing new drug treatments using a variety of clinically relevant endpoints and serving varied patient populations. Planning for future pandemics should include a global network of clinical testing centers that were key to a rapid response. Research is needed to discover more durable antiviral treatments, especially in settings where mutation and population immunity are subject to rapid change.},
}

@article {pmid41121642,
year = {2025},
author = {Hortsch, M and Girão-Carmona, VCC and Leite, ACRM and Nikas, IP and Gatumu, MK and Koney, NK and Arko-Boham, B and Yohannan, DG and Oommen, AM and Li, Y and Yang, J and Trollope, AF and Meyer, AJ and Van Nuland, SE},
title = {A global overview of anatomical science education and its present and future role in biomedical curricula.},
journal = {Anatomical sciences education},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ase.70137},
pmid = {41121642},
issn = {1935-9780},
abstract = {The four main anatomical sciences, gross anatomy, histology, neuroanatomy, and embryology, are fundamental subjects for most health professionals and biomedical students. Usually taught as part of preclinical basic science training, the anatomical sciences provide a structural understanding of human or animal bodies at both macroscopic and microscopic levels. This overview characterizes how the anatomical sciences are currently taught around the globe, highlighting similarities, differences, and recent curricular transformations that were partially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Globally, educators of the anatomical sciences navigate similar pressures, including expectations of curricular integration and reduced time for anatomical teaching. Student-centered teaching approaches and e-learning technologies have been adopted across many regions, transforming how educators engage their learners. However, not all educators are provided with technological resources to facilitate such educational advancements, particularly in regions where economic inequality and poor infrastructure hinder access to the internet. Though ethical standards guiding the procurement of human bodies have evolved over time, the sources of human bodies that academic institutions use for anatomy education vary widely. Specific regional issues complicate many aspects of anatomical science education, challenging educators to adopt novel teaching approaches. Despite some differences, every global region appears to be moving in a similar direction. However, where academic institutions fall on that trajectory differs for specific regions/countries. How these educational and technological changes influence anatomy education should be carefully considered for the strengths and weaknesses they provide and the opportunities and threats they bring.},
}

@article {pmid41120028,
year = {2025},
author = {Song, Y and Zhang, S and Wang, R and Zhang, Y and Zhang, Y and Lin, H and Wang, F},
title = {Ginseng as Promising Natural Medicine against Infectious Diseases: Therapeutic Targets and Potential Mechanisms.},
journal = {Journal of ethnopharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {120764},
doi = {10.1016/j.jep.2025.120764},
pmid = {41120028},
issn = {1872-7573},
abstract = {C.A. Meyer (ginseng) has been esteemed for centuries in traditional Chinese, Korean, and indigenous medicine as a vital tonic and therapeutic agent for enhancing resilience and treating infectious diseases. Historically, used for respiratory or skin infections, gastrointestinal disorders, etc. These applications align with modern evidence supporting its broad-spectrum anti-infective activity. Ginsenosides, the principal bioactive constituents, have been shown to exert targeted effects against diverse infectious pathogens. This review integrates ethnomedical insights with contemporary pharmacology, highlighting ginseng's translational potential in combating antimicrobial resistance and emerging infectious diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY: This review aims to elucidate the therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of ginsenosides' anti-infective activities and critically evaluates their translational potential in addressing emerging infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Elsevier, and the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) using keywords such as "ginsenosides", "anti-infective", "antiviral", "antibacterial", and "immunomodulation". Relevant studies published in English and Chinese were systematically screened, extracted, and analyzed to elucidate the mechanisms and clinical potential of ginsenosides in combating infectious diseases.

RESULTS: Ginsenosides exhibit anti-infective effects through three major mechanisms: (i) direct inhibition of viral entry and replication; (ii) immunomodulatory activity via activation of macrophages, T cells, and dendritic cells; and (iii) suppression of pro-inflammatory pathways, particularly NF-κB and MAPK signaling. They also demonstrate synergistic effects with conventional therapies against key pathogens such as influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. Additional benefits include modulation of the gut microbiota and enhancement of host immune responses, underscoring their multifaceted therapeutic profile.

CONCLUSION: Ginsenosides represent promising natural anti-infective agents with broad-spectrum activity. This review highlights their mechanistic basis and clinical potential, supporting their development as novel therapeutics in the fight against infectious diseases, including the urgent threat of antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41117273,
year = {2025},
author = {Oba, S and Hosoya, T and Iwai, H and Yasuda, S},
title = {Long COVID: mechanisms of disease, multisystem sequelae, and prospects for treatment.},
journal = {Immunological medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-24},
doi = {10.1080/25785826.2025.2570902},
pmid = {41117273},
issn = {2578-5826},
abstract = {Long COVID has emerged as a significant global health issue, affecting individuals across a wide spectrum of initial disease severity. While its definition and prevalence vary across studies, persistent symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, respiratory difficulties, and cardiovascular complications have been widely reported. Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed, including incomplete viral clearance, reactivation of latent viruses, immune dysregulation, autoimmunity, endothelial dysfunction, microbiome alterations, and mitochondrial impairment. These interconnected processes are thought to contribute to chronic inflammation and multi-organ disease. To date, there are no established therapies for Long COVID, and management primarily focuses on symptomatic relief and rehabilitation. Vaccination has been shown to reduce the incidence of Long COVID, and emerging strategies, including antiviral agents, immune-modulating therapies, microbiome restoration, and mitochondria-targeted interventions, are under investigation. This review summarizes the current understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, organ-specific manifestations, and potential therapeutic approaches for Long COVID, aiming to provide insights into future research directions and clinical management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41117125,
year = {2025},
author = {Sanchez, ZM and Y Valente, J and da Silva Dos Santos, MH and Oliveira E Souza, R},
title = {Substance Use During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Americas: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Substance use & addiction journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {29767342251370454},
doi = {10.1177/29767342251370454},
pmid = {41117125},
issn = {2976-7350},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, substance use in the Americas was influenced by various factors, including social isolation, increased stress, and disruption of healthcare services. While the impacts varied across populations, the health crisis exacerbated challenges related to substance use, particularly in more vulnerable groups. This article aims to describe the pandemic's impact on substance use and substance use disorders in the Americas region.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review across 4 databases (Pubmed, Scielo, Lilacs, and Google Scholar) using a search paradigm based on the combination of several keywords related to substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Americas.

RESULTS: Most studies were conducted at the beginning of the pandemic and carried out in the United States and Canada. A higher proportion of the general population decreased or showed no changes in cannabis consumption. On the other hand, for those who reported pre-pandemic substance use, consumption has increased as a strategy to cope with COVID-related stress, exacerbating preexisting problems. Patients with substance use disorders reduced their visits to treatment services and in-person medication visits declined significantly. In an attempt to reverse the distancing of patients from the services, there was an increase in take-home medication and telehealth services. Rates for opioid-related deaths and other substance overdose-related deaths increased during the pandemic, especially among racial/ethnic minorities.

CONCLUSION: The study concludes that the pandemic-intensified substance use among vulnerable populations, particularly individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions or a history of substance use disorders, while having a low impact on the general population. This divergence has contributed to widening health disparities.},
}

@article {pmid41116823,
year = {2025},
author = {Ebrahim, MA and Makundi, SE and Mushi, NN and Ibrahim, PM and Osman, RS and Fidaali, Z and Nkya, DA},
title = {Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {The Pan African medical journal},
volume = {51},
number = {},
pages = {96},
pmid = {41116823},
issn = {1937-8688},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/complications/therapy/physiopathology ; *Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy/virology/physiopathology ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/administration & dosage ; Female ; Child ; Methylprednisolone/administration & dosage ; Myocarditis/virology/etiology ; Gastroenteritis/virology/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {Given the rarity of multisystem inflammatory syndrome related to COVID-19 (MIS-C). This case report highlights the high index of suspicion to diagnose MIS-C in a child who presented with symptoms suggestive of acute gastroenteritis. While admitted in the hospital, she deteriorated with worsening of symptoms, clinical decline, deranged laboratory markers, and significant radiological findings, even though on antibiotics. She had acute myocarditis with myocardial dysfunction on echocardiography and raised cardiac enzymes. Intravenous human immunoglobulin (IVIG) was given, but there was additional need for inotrope (norepinephrine) and methylprednisolone albeit the preliminary echocardiogram was normal. Early recognition of MIS-C with rapid escalation of care post IVIG administration is needed to prevent morbidity and mortality.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/complications/therapy/physiopathology
*Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy/virology/physiopathology
Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/administration & dosage
Female
Child
Methylprednisolone/administration & dosage
Myocarditis/virology/etiology
Gastroenteritis/virology/diagnosis

@article {pmid41116774,
year = {2025},
author = {Wright, A and McGrowder, D and Bryan, S},
title = {Nitric Oxide in the Treatment of COVID-19: Nasal Sprays, Inhalants and Nanoparticles.},
journal = {Biochemistry research international},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {8846903},
pmid = {41116774},
issn = {2090-2247},
abstract = {Although the World Health Organization has declared that the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is not a public health emergency of international concern anymore, it has negatively impacted the world, and effective treatment for this pandemic remains a major priority. Vaccine effectiveness has been a matter of concern given the evolution of variants and subvariants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Thus, continued protection against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants is still necessary and could work alone or in parallel with vaccinations to treat COVID-19 in the future. Further, findings from in vitro and in vivo studies have noted the effectiveness of high dosages of nitric oxide (NO) as an antimicrobial agent against respiratory pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. NO has been previously utilized in the management of SARS-CoV and has shown a similar antiviral effect with SARS-CoV-2 in vivo and in vitro. Effective therapy with NO can be used to target several stages of COVID-19 infection to prevent transmission and progression of the disease. The unique properties of NO allow this simple, gaseous molecule to be administered in various forms. NO can be used as an inhalant, in the form of NO donor drugs such as S-nitrosothiols and more recently as NO-releasing nanoparticles (NO-nps). This review summarizes the bioavailability of NO in COVID-19 patients and highlights in vivo and in vitro studies as well as clinical trials with NO administered as a nasal spray, inhalant, or via nanodelivery for therapeutic applications for COVID-19 and other respiratory infections in the future.},
}

@article {pmid41116592,
year = {2025},
author = {Mutee, AF and Shareef, A and Jyothi, SR and Panigrahi, R and Abbot, V and Chauhan, AS and Singh, S and Abduvoyitov, B and Sameer, HN and Yaseen, A and Athab, ZH and Adil, M},
title = {Exploring Potential Mechanisms for Epilepsy After mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination: An Extremely Rare Side-Effect.},
journal = {Scandinavian journal of immunology},
volume = {102},
number = {4},
pages = {e70059},
doi = {10.1111/sji.70059},
pmid = {41116592},
issn = {1365-3083},
mesh = {Humans ; *Epilepsy/immunology/etiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; BNT162 Vaccine/adverse effects ; 2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {The rapid rollout of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, including Pfizer-BioNTech's BNT162b2 and Moderna's mRNA-1273, has been instrumental in curbing the pandemic, demonstrating high efficacy and safety in the general population. However, concerns regarding neurological adverse effects, particularly in individuals with epilepsy (PWE), warrant scrutiny. Clinical data from case reports, multicenter studies, and meta-analyses (encompassing over 3000 PWE) indicate that most tolerate vaccination well, with seizure worsening in approximately 5% of cases, often transient and lower than post-COVID-19 infection rates. Rare severe events, such as status epilepticus, highlight vulnerabilities, though background seizure incidence remains comparable or lower than natural rates. This review examines potential neuroimmune mechanisms linking mRNA vaccination to seizure exacerbation, emphasising immune activation, neuroinflammation, and epileptogenesis. mRNA vaccines utilise lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver spike protein-encoding mRNA, eliciting robust immune responses. Potential triggers for seizures include cytokine storms (e.g., IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6), blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, molecular mimicry with neuronal antigens, and autoantibody production, which may heighten neuronal hyperexcitability in susceptible individuals. Neurological side effects, including Bell's palsy, transverse myelitis, and herpes zoster reactivation, are more prevalent in mRNA platforms, potentially tied to LNP-induced inflammation or cross-reactive immunity. While evidence supports vaccination benefits outweighing risks for PWE, gaps persist in understanding individual predispositions. Future research should prioritise longitudinal studies, EEG monitoring, and AI-driven approaches for personalised risk assessment, mRNA optimisation, and pharmacovigilance. Integrating multi-omics and computational modelling could enhance vaccine safety, ensuring equitable protection for vulnerable populations.},
}

Humans
*Epilepsy/immunology/etiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology
Vaccination/adverse effects
BNT162 Vaccine/adverse effects
2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects

@article {pmid41115503,
year = {2025},
author = {Bratzler, DW},
title = {COVID-19 in Retrospect: Public Health Lessons from a Global Crisis.},
journal = {The American journal of the medical sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.amjms.2025.10.008},
pmid = {41115503},
issn = {1538-2990},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, emerging in late 2019, rapidly evolved into a global health crisis of unprecedented scale. Initially marked by widespread transmission and severe illness, the pandemic overwhelmed healthcare systems, disrupted economies, and exposed deep-rooted inequalities. Over 775 million cases and an estimated 18-33 million global deaths were recorded by 2024. The crisis illuminated critical vulnerabilities in pandemic preparedness, healthcare infrastructure, and public health communication. Key lessons included the need for resilient supply chains, robust data systems, equitable healthcare access, and sustained investment in public health. Misinformation significantly hindered response efforts, underscoring the importance of aligned scientific and public messaging. The pandemic also triggered debates over civil liberties and public health authority. While rapid vaccine development was a major achievement, the overall response highlighted systemic gaps. These insights offer a roadmap for improving future pandemic responses and safeguarding global health security.},
}

@article {pmid40839804,
year = {2025},
author = {Ni, K and Korfmacher, KS},
title = {A Scoping Review on the Ethics of Wastewater Surveillance for COVID-19.},
journal = {Journal of public health management and practice : JPHMP},
volume = {31},
number = {6},
pages = {E387-E395},
pmid = {40839804},
issn = {1550-5022},
support = {P30 ES001247/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Wastewater ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Public Health/ethics/methods ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {CONTEXT: Wastewater surveillance (WWS) emerged as a tool to monitor public health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wastewater surveillance is generally undertaken voluntarily by public health and wastewater treatment agencies. Therefore, public trust and support is essential to its sustainability. Development and implementation of ethically informed practices may contribute to public support for expansion of WWS to other public health applications.

OBJECTIVE: We conducted a scoping review of existing publications on the ethics of WWS for COVID-19. We characterized these publications and identified research gaps.

DESIGN: This scoping review was based on searches through Scopus and PubMed for the period January 2020 to December 2023 focusing on four concepts: wastewater, surveillance, ethics, and COVID-19. We included studies published in journals, reports, and books and identified 31 publications. Publications were coded thematically as well as by approach, region, discipline, and publication type.

RESULTS: The majority of publications focused on the need to develop ethical guidelines that promote long-term public support for WWS. A number of publications proposed ethical guidelines and also emphasized that these considerations are context-specific and dynamic, requiring an ongoing system for input as new situations, endpoints, and technologies evolve. Themes included protection of privacy, potential to stigmatize communities with high COVID-19 signals, the importance of effective communication, equitable application of WWS, community engagement, and high standards for data quality. There were few empirical studies of diverse populations' preferences for WWS. Ethical considerations may vary across communities and countries and as new applications of wastewater surveillance emerge.

CONCLUSIONS: We provide an overview of the emerging principles for ethical practice of WWS and identify gaps in knowledge. These findings may guide future research and consideration of ethics as decisionmakers consider new monitoring endpoints (eg, pharmaceuticals, illegal drugs, infectious diseases, and indicators of population health).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Wastewater
SARS-CoV-2
Public Health/ethics/methods
Pandemics

@article {pmid41115313,
year = {2025},
author = {Gualotuña-Suntaxi, J and Pérez-Muñoz, D and Zambrano-Villacres, R and Zambrano, AK and Simancas-Racines, D and Angamarca-Iguago, J},
title = {Available evidence on integrating COVID-19 into sentinel surveillance systems: A scoping review.},
journal = {Medwave},
volume = {25},
number = {9},
pages = {e3026},
doi = {10.5867/medwave.2025.09.3026},
pmid = {41115313},
issn = {0717-6384},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Sentinel Surveillance ; Pandemics ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the weaknesses of epidemiological surveillance systems and highlighted the need to integrate new respiratory viruses into sentinel surveillance systems. However, current evidence on their effectiveness remains limited.

AIM: This project conducts a scoping review to describe the available evidence on the integration of COVID-19 into sentinel surveillance systems.

METHODS: The included studies addressed sentinel surveillance in the context of the pandemic following the World Health Organization declaration. A systematic search was performed in databases including MEDLINE, LILACS, EPISTEMONIKOS, and DIMENSIONS, selecting observational studies and systematic reviews. Data collection and analysis were organized into categories such as clinical characteristics, timely detection, geographic representativeness, co-infection, and adaptability with genomic surveillance. Seventeen studies reporting on COVID-19 integration impact and one preliminary WHO report were identified.

RESULTS: Results identified the most prevalent symptoms in the general population: fever (73%), cough (51.8%), loss of taste or smell (45.1%), hypoxemia (33%), and sputum production (23.9%). A high correlation was obtained between SARI cases or hospitalizations due to respiratory infection and the incidence of COVID-19 (ρ = 0.78 and ρ = 0.82 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS: Integrating COVID-19 into the sentinel surveillance system could improve detection, response, and follow-up capacity. Additionally, implementing standardized case definitions promotes more efficient use of laboratory resources, thereby enhancing the sustainability of the surveillance system.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Sentinel Surveillance
Pandemics
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid41113908,
year = {2025},
author = {Boraschi, D and Carsetti, R and Chen, L and Tagliabue, A and Tan, AT and Wang, B},
title = {Advocating mucosal immunization: A global need in a viewpoint from China.},
journal = {Innovation (Cambridge (Mass.))},
volume = {6},
number = {10},
pages = {100951},
pmid = {41113908},
issn = {2666-6758},
abstract = {Human mucosal immunization is expected to afford protection against infection and reduce transmission by generating anti-infective immunity at the mucosal entry site of viruses and bacteria. Nasal or oral administration has the advantage of being needle free and self-administered, thereby improving compliance and coverage of large populations. In China, the experience of COVID-19 has promoted substantial efforts in the development of nasal vaccinations in the general health protection strategy. The hurdles we are facing in the development of mucosal vaccines, however, come from the still limited knowledge of the mechanisms controlling mucosal immunity in different anatomical locations and in response to different pathogens/vaccines. Identifying and filling the knowledge gaps in order to develop effective and safe mucosal immunization strategies requires global collaboration, not only at the scientific level but, most importantly, by engaging public and private health organizations, governments, and regulatory authorities. We have highlighted here some of the crucial issues in mucosal immunization and provided suggestions for the way forward toward a global preparedness effort to prevent infectious diseases and ensure vaccine equity.},
}

@article {pmid41112617,
year = {2025},
author = {Ding, W and Zhang, Y and Wang, MZ and Wang, S},
title = {Post-pandemic mental health: Understanding the global psychological burden and charting future research priorities.},
journal = {World journal of psychiatry},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {109502},
pmid = {41112617},
issn = {2220-3206},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has left an indelible mark on global mental health, with widespread psychological consequences that persist beyond the acute phase of the virus. This review synthesizes current evidence on the post-pandemic mental health burden across diverse populations, highlighting elevated rates of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and substance use disorders linked to prolonged social isolation, economic instability, and grief. We examine disparities in psychological outcomes among vulnerable groups (e.g., healthcare workers, survivors, marginalized communities) and identify key challenges in addressing these issues, including fragmented healthcare systems, stigma, and the limited scalability of interventions. Emerging evidence on resilience factors (e.g., social support and adaptive coping) is also discussed. Finally, we propose critical priorities for future research, including longitudinal studies on the chronic mental health effects, the development of culturally tailored interventions, and the integration of digital mental health solutions. This review distinctively addresses enduring post-pandemic mental health challenges, integrating neurobiological insights, equity-focused interventions, and critical perspectives on digital solutions, gaps underrepresented in prior syntheses. By charting a roadmap for multidisciplinary collaboration, this review aims to inform policymakers and researchers in mitigating the long-term psychological aftermath of the pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid41112575,
year = {2025},
author = {Xin, R and Garigliany, MM and Li, J},
title = {KAP1 in antiviral immunity: dual roles in viral silencing and immune regulation.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1618103},
pmid = {41112575},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Tripartite Motif-Containing Protein 28/immunology/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Influenza A virus/immunology ; Protein Processing, Post-Translational ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/virology ; Retroviridae/immunology ; },
abstract = {Krüppel-associated box (KRAB)-associated protein 1 (KAP1), also known as TRIM28 due to its tripartite motif (TRIM) domain, is a member of the transcription intermediary factor 1 (TIF1) family. Since its discovery in 1996, KAP1 has been widely studied as a scaffold protein involved in histone methylation, heterochromatin formation, and genome maintenance. Its function and stability are dynamically regulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation, SUMOylation, and acetylation. In addition, KAP1 serves as a signal transducer via its SUMO/ubiquitin E3 ligase activity. This review summarizes current advances in understanding the roles of KAP1 in regulating retroviruses (RVs), herpesviruses, and emerging respiratory viruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A virus (IAV), with a particular focus on the interplay between its structural domains and physiological functions. Recent findings on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are highlighted to address ongoing mechanistic controversies, particularly those involving KAP1-mediated latency control. We further examine novel insights into KAP1's involvement in other viruses, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), and African swine fever virus (ASFV). as well as its emerging regulatory roles in host innate immune responses through PTM-mediated modulation of antiviral signaling pathways. Although KAP1 exerts both antiviral and proviral effects, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely defined, especially in systems where conflicting observations exist for the same pathogen. These discrepancies-reflecting both methodological variation and KAP1's inherent regulatory complexity-underscore the need for deeper mechanistic insight. Future studies utilizing precise genetic tools and in vivo models will be critical for elucidating the context-specific roles of KAP1 in viral gene regulation and advancing its translational potential.},
}

*Tripartite Motif-Containing Protein 28/immunology/metabolism/genetics
Humans
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Influenza A virus/immunology
Protein Processing, Post-Translational
Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
*Virus Diseases/immunology/virology
Retroviridae/immunology

@article {pmid41112192,
year = {2025},
author = {Cavada, BS and Osterne, VJS and Oliveira, MV and Ferreira, WP and Neto, CC and Nascimento, KS and Pinto-Junior, VR},
title = {Bridging Viral Glycobiology and Lectin Biotechnology for Antiviral and Diagnostic Strategies.},
journal = {ACS bio & med chem Au},
volume = {5},
number = {5},
pages = {792-814},
pmid = {41112192},
issn = {2694-2437},
abstract = {Lectins, proteins that reversibly bind specific glycan motifs, offer dual utility as molecular probes or inhibitors of virus-host interactions. This review explores the molecular interactions between lectins and viral envelope glycoproteins, emphasizing their applications as antiviral agents and diagnostic tools. Enveloped viruses, such as HIV, Influenza, Herpesviruses, and Coronaviruses, exhibit dense glycosylation on their surface proteins, forming a glycan shield rich in high-mannose and complex glycans crucial for viral processes and immune evasion. Lectins exploit these glycan shields by selectively targeting conserved glycosylation sites on key viral proteins like gp120 (HIV), hemagglutinin (Influenza), spike (SARS-CoV-2), and glycoprotein D (HSV), thereby interfering with viral entry. Potent inhibitory activity across diverse virus families has been demonstrated for natural lectins such as griffithsin (GRFT), cyanovirin (CV-N), and banana lectin (BanLec), with novel fungal and algal lectins continually expanding the list. Concurrently, lectin-based biosensors utilizing electrochemical, plasmonic, and microfluidic platforms, often enhanced by nanomaterials or aptamers, enable sensitive and specific detection of glycosylated viral targets. Despite challenges including potential immunogenicity and production scalability, ongoing bioengineering efforts aim to refine lectin specificity, reduce toxicity, and enhance overall functionality. These collective advances showcase the role of lectins as versatile molecular tools for the detection, inhibition, and mechanistic study of viral pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid41111875,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammed, M and Konda, M and Ganti, L},
title = {Deficiency and Development: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Effects of Iron Deficiency on Human Development.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {e92544},
pmid = {41111875},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Iron is an important micronutrient for biological and neurocognitive function. Iron deficiency is significantly undertreated; yet, for many vulnerable populations, such as women and children, iron deficiency is prevalent and leads to serious developmental consequences. As global trends continue to rise, it is crucial to research trends in this area. Publications were extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection database, specifically containing the keywords "iron deficiency" and "development." A total of 6,850 articles were acquired from the search. A bibliometric analysis was then conducted on VOSViewer 1.6.2 to assess data concerning the publication year, country, journal, and keyword frequency. The quantity of published articles on iron deficiency and development has an overall increasing trend, dominated by the United States, China, and India. The top five publishing journals included Nutrients, Journal of Nutrition, and American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, with the Journal of Nutrition having the highest link strength. The frequently co-occurring keywords included iron, anemia, and iron-deficiency. Although COVID-19 had some disruption on publication due to priority on the pandemic-related research, the overall global trend. The occurrence of nutrition journals suggests an emphasis on the nutritional aspects of managing iron deficiency. The recurring keywords highlight the data focus primarily on early pediatric care, plant science, and medical research.},
}

@article {pmid41111765,
year = {2025},
author = {Sato, T and Kakuda, K and Sekiguchi, E and Ishiseki, M and Iwanami, M and Akamatsu, Y and Taito, S},
title = {Psychological Safety and Burnout in Nurses: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {e92411},
pmid = {41111765},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Burnout among nurses has become a global problem, with prevalence rates exceeding 40% in high-intensity clinical settings. Psychological safety represents a shared belief about team interpersonal risk-taking safety. These constructs have emerged as potential protective factors in recent research. However, studies that simultaneously examine both constructs remain limited, thereby hindering the development of evidence-based interventions aimed at promoting psychological safety and preventing burnout.Therefore, we conducted a scoping review to evaluate and synthesize existing literature that investigates the direct relationship between psychological safety and burnout among nurses, with emphasis on the conceptualization, measurement, and contextual association of these constructs within the nursing profession. This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and complied with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Excerpta Medica Database, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The search was conducted using terms related to psychological safety, burnout, and nurses. Studies were deemed eligible if they involved nurses employed in hospital-based settings and simultaneously examined the concepts of psychological safety and burnout. All published studies that examined psychological safety and burnout among nurses were included, with data extracted on study design, setting, country of origin, publication year, definitions used, measurement instruments, reported scores, and associated factors. Of 1,021 initially identified studies, six met the inclusion criteria, comprising 4,984 nurses across the United States, China, Pakistan, Japan, and South Korea, published between 2021 and 2025. Study designs included four cross-sectional studies, one longitudinal study, and one non-randomized controlled trial, conducted across diverse healthcare settings, including coronavirus disease 2019 wards, emergency departments, and psychiatric units. Three studies reported a consistent inverse relationship between psychological safety and burnout. Psychological safety was consistently defined in accordance with Edmondson's framework, while burnout was assessed based on Maslach's three-dimensional conceptualization. Leadership style, particularly servant leadership, emerged as a key factor potentially influencing both constructs. Workplace conditions, including patient acuity, exposure to workplace violence, and team dynamics, were identified as significant contextual factors.This review provides evidence of a consistent inverse relationship between psychological safety and burnout among nurses, with Edmondson's and Maslach's frameworks offering appropriate conceptual foundations for future research. These findings suggest that promoting psychological safety serves as a protective organizational strategy in high-intensity clinical settings. They also underscore the need for comprehensive, multi-level interventions focused on leadership development, structured communication protocols, and robust organizational support systems to enhance psychological safety and mitigate the risk of burnout.},
}

@article {pmid41110943,
year = {2025},
author = {Thomas, C and Pearse, RM},
title = {Socioeconomic deprivation and health inequity: independently associated with postoperative outcomes, and does this matter?.},
journal = {British journal of anaesthesia},
volume = {135},
number = {5},
pages = {1141-1143},
doi = {10.1016/j.bja.2025.07.002},
pmid = {41110943},
issn = {1471-6771},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Postoperative Complications/epidemiology ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; *Health Inequities ; *Social Deprivation ; *Healthcare Disparities ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Health Status Disparities ; },
abstract = {Health inequities are unjust disparities in health between groups of people, typically described in terms of sex, race and ethnicity, or socioeconomic position. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted significant ongoing health inequities across the United Kingdom and worldwide. We believe that socioeconomic deprivation is the single most important driver of health inequity. For patients having surgical treatments, it is clear that socioeconomic deprivation is an important risk factor for poor patient outcomes. However, there is overlap with other important risk factors such as smoking and obesity. We discuss recent work that describes the associations between socioeconomic deprivation and short-term patient outcomes after surgery. We explore the difficulties in identifying risk factors for poor patient outcomes that can be modified by perioperative teams, and why it is important not to confuse modifiable risks with the underlying drivers of health inequity.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Postoperative Complications/epidemiology
United Kingdom/epidemiology
Risk Factors
*Health Inequities
*Social Deprivation
*Healthcare Disparities
Socioeconomic Factors
*Health Status Disparities

@article {pmid40676931,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdul-Azees, PA and Marinkovic, M and Singh, BB and Dean, DD and Chen, XD and Goldberg, MP and Restrepo, MI and Loomer, PM and Yeh, CK},
title = {The Impact of Aging Oral Health on Long COVID-19.},
journal = {Journal of dental research},
volume = {104},
number = {12},
pages = {1294-1303},
doi = {10.1177/00220345251349805},
pmid = {40676931},
issn = {1544-0591},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/immunology ; *Oral Health ; *Aging/physiology/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Mouth Diseases/virology ; },
abstract = {At least 10% of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop a variety of multisystem symptoms lasting more than 12 wk known as postacute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) or "long COVID." While the precise pathogenesis of PASC remains unclear, immune dysregulation is widely recognized as a key factor. Moreover, PASC disproportionately affects older individuals who are prone to age-related immune system decline, which further exacerbates the risk and severity of PASC. The oral cavity, a primary site for initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, may contribute to the development and persistence of PASC. Emerging evidence suggests that changes in age-related oral health, such as periodontitis, salivary gland (SG) dysfunction, and gustatory and olfactory impairments, may create an environment conducive to forming an oral reservoir of intact virus or viral antigens, which may contribute to the chronicity of PASC. Alternatively, the pathogenesis of PASC may increase the risk of a wide range of oral health issues, such as dental diseases, dry mouth, and sensory dysfunction (e.g., taste and smell) that are frequently reported by patients with PASC. This review highlights how aging facilitates oral SARS-CoV-2 infection, co-infection with other viruses may drive PASC in aging patients, aging and PASC dysregulate the oral microbiome, SARS-CoV-2 infection promotes molecular mechanisms involved in oral tissue aging, aging oral health affects susceptibility to developing PASC, and inflammation associated with PASC exacerbates dysregulation of metabolic/enzymatic pathways of aging oral mucosa and diseases of the periodontal apparatus, SGs, and taste. It underscores the urgent need to comprehensively address the interplay between aging oral health and PASC, which will help mitigate long-term complications and improve overall health outcomes for affected individuals.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/immunology
*Oral Health
*Aging/physiology/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Mouth Diseases/virology

@article {pmid40418063,
year = {2025},
author = {Pascual-Mato, M and Gárate Viñas, G and Muñoz San Martín, M and González-Quintanilla, V and Crespo, J and Rivero Tirado, M and Pascual Gómez, J},
title = {Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal disorders - A key mediator in the gut-brain axis.},
journal = {Revista espanola de enfermedades digestivas},
volume = {117},
number = {10},
pages = {572-578},
doi = {10.17235/reed.2025.11310/2025},
pmid = {40418063},
issn = {1130-0108},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Diseases/physiopathology ; *Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide/physiology/metabolism ; *Brain-Gut Axis/physiology ; *Brain/physiopathology/physiology ; *Gastrointestinal Tract/physiopathology ; },
abstract = {The concept "gut-brain axis" means a bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This axis is key in keeping the physiological homeostasis of the GI tract and its dysfunction has been implicated in a number of neuropsychiatric and gut conditions. A number of neurotransmitters are known to be involved in the performance of gut-brain axis. Our objective has been to review and critically analyze the contribution of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the physiology and pathophysiology of the gut-brain axis, with emphasis in the fresh, basic, and clinical evidence supporting an outstanding role of this neuropeptide. CGRP is considered the pivotal molecule and the first biomarker of migraine, a debilitating disease combining digestive and neurological symptoms. A number of recent experimental and clinical data support a relevant protective role for CGRP, and in particular for beta-CGRP, the isoform located in the enteric nervous system, in the gut-brain axis proper functioning and in the pathophysiology of several gut diseases, including conditions such as diverticular disease, acute infectious diarrhea or inflammatory bowel disease. As examples of its adaptable behavior, circulating beta-CGRP levels are increased in patients with acute diarrhea in COVID-19 infection or reduced already in the early phases of inflammatory bowel disease. In addition, beta-CGRP antagonism could explain the constipation seen with the new CGRP antagonists used in the preventive treatment of frequent migraine. These evidences indicate a relevant role of CGRP in gut-brain axis functioning and call for analyzing a potential role of CGRP in other common diseases of the GI tract, comorbid with brain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or chronic constipation.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Diseases/physiopathology
*Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide/physiology/metabolism
*Brain-Gut Axis/physiology
*Brain/physiopathology/physiology
*Gastrointestinal Tract/physiopathology

@article {pmid41110781,
year = {2025},
author = {Borrow, R and Caugant, DA and Clark, SA and Dinleyici, EÇ and Hall, I and Harrison, LH and Hausdorff, WP and Ladhani, SN and Lucidarme, A and Sáfadi, MA and Smith, V and Taha, MK and Vázquez, J},
title = {Current global trends in meningococcal disease control, risk groups and vaccination: Consensus of the Global Meningococcal Initiative.},
journal = {The Journal of infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106635},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinf.2025.106635},
pmid = {41110781},
issn = {1532-2742},
abstract = {This review outlines recent trends on invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) discussed at the latest meeting of the Global Meningococcal Initiative (GMI). There has been a re-emergence of the Hajj strain sublineage (serogroup W; ST-11 clonal complex), with travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia being a critical factor in transmission. The epidemiology of IMD has also changed following the COVID-19 pandemic, with annual IMD cases increasing in many countries. For example, the highest number of IMD cases since 2014 was reported in the USA in 2023-2024. Atypical presentations of IMD have been prominent irrespective of the pandemic. For instance, an increase in cases of meningococcal epiglottitis has been reported in France in 2022-2023 (serogroups W and Y). When considering vaccination, the GMI has identified a need for broader meningococcal serogroup B (MenB) immunisation owing to the potential impact of the vaccines on reducing IMD incidence caused by other serogroups than MenB. There is also a case for using MenB vaccination to protect against Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection based on initial evidence, albeit further studies will need to be conducted.},
}

@article {pmid41110316,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, W and Chen, X and Liu, C and Olatunji, OJ and Le, TD and Ashaolu, TJ and Ashaolu, JO},
title = {Vitamin D deficiency and respiratory health: A narrative review bridging gaps in public health through innovative strategies and sustainable solutions.},
journal = {Journal of infection and public health},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {103013},
doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2025.103013},
pmid = {41110316},
issn = {1876-035X},
abstract = {Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health issue, highly prevalent in middle-income and Eastern Mediterranean countries. It is associated with increased risks of respiratory infections like COVID-19 and influenza, alongside osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Functioning as an immunomodulator, vitamin D enhances macrophage activity, suppresses inflammatory cytokines, and induces antimicrobial peptides. Observational studies link deficiency to a higher risk of infection, although clinical trial results are mixed. Risk factors include dark skin, older age, urban living, and reduced sun exposure. This narrative review synthesized findings from peer-reviewed literature (2000-2025) in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. It focuses on addressing respiratory infections associated with vitamin D deficiency through multifaceted public health strategies. These include policy-led food fortification, biofortification, public awareness campaigns, and technological innovations to increase dietary vitamin D intake and reduce the global burden of deficiency and respiratory infection.},
}

@article {pmid41108594,
year = {2025},
author = {Akbar, N and Phadke, S and Mehelay, S and Pullattayil, AK and Fakolade, A and Busse, M},
title = {Considerations of race and ethnicity within rehabilitation studies for post COVID-19 condition: A scoping review.},
journal = {PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/pmrj.70027},
pmid = {41108594},
issn = {1934-1563},
abstract = {Post COVID-19 condition (PCC) or long COVID disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority communities. There are a growing number of rehabilitation studies for PCC, however, it has yet to be determined whether existing studies take race and ethnicity into account in their study designs and whether existing rehabilitative approaches are equally effective across diverse racial and ethnic groups. The objective of this study was to describe the extent to which rehabilitation studies of PCC consider race and ethnicity in defining eligibility criteria, planning recruitment strategies, designing intervention delivery and adherence promoting approaches, selecting outcome measures, and reporting results. Of the 4845 studies screened, 23 met eligibility criteria and were included in this review. The most common reason for exclusion was a lack of mention of race or ethnicity anywhere within the article. Among the 23 studies included, 13 studies provided data on the race and/or ethnicity characteristics of their sample, with 88% of participants across all of these studies being White. Less than 25% of studies described the incorporation of race and/or ethnicity in their recruitment strategies (n = 3, 13%) or data analysis (n = 5, 22%). Greater racial and ethnic diversity is needed within rehabilitation studies for PCC as there is currently a significant underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in existing studies. Overall, more PCC rehabilitation studies need to incorporate race and ethnicity into their study designs as it is not well understood whether existing rehabilitation strategies are equally effective across different racial and ethnic groups.},
}

@article {pmid40992230,
year = {2025},
author = {Ortega-Paz, L and Talasaz, AH and Sadeghipour, P and Rashedi, S and Connors, JM and Angiolillo, DJ and Cavallari, LH and Jimenez, D and Bastidas, G and Lorenzi, E and Berry, LR and Hills, T and McAuley, DF and Shah, T and Lansky, AJ and Deepti, S and Gaitán-Duarte, HG and Potpara, TS and Galli, M and Dixon, DL and Piazza, G and Lip, GYH and Mehran, R and Libby, P and Krumholz, HM and Bikdeli, B},
title = {Safety and effectiveness of statins in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: Systematic review and collaborative meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Thrombosis research},
volume = {255},
number = {},
pages = {109484},
doi = {10.1016/j.thromres.2025.109484},
pmid = {40992230},
issn = {1879-2472},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *COVID-19/mortality ; Hospitalization ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Male ; Muscular Diseases/chemically induced ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {AIMS: Statins may impact COVID-19 outcomes through lipid-mediated and lipid-independent pathways. However, the clinical impact of statin therapy among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 remains unclear due to the limited power of existing randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and clinicaltrials.gov was conducted through July 17th, 2024. RCTs were included if they compared statin therapy to control (placebo or standard care) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and enrolled at least 250 randomized participants. Studies with co-treatment were considered in sensitivity analyses. The primary effectiveness outcome was 30-day all-cause death. The main safety outcomes were myopathy and rise in liver enzymes.

RESULTS: Three RCTs were included in the main analysis (3882 statin-naive patients, 33.7 % female, average follow-up duration 37 days). Compared with control, statin therapy was associated with reduced all-cause death (20.9 % vs. 23.8 %; odds ratio [OR]: 0.82, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.70-0.96; P = 0.01), with a small but significant increase in myopathy (0.6 % vs. 0 %; risk difference: 0.00, 95 % CI -0.00; 0.01), and no significant difference in liver enzyme abnormalities (1.0 % vs. 1.4 %; OR 1.00, 95 % CI: 0.25-3.99). A sensitivity analysis including two additional RCTs that included randomized co-treatments yielded similar findings. There were no significant interactions for effectiveness by disease severity (critically vs. non-critically ill, P = 0.38) or sex (males vs. females, P = 0.83).

CONCLUSION: Among hospitalized patients with COVID-19, statin therapy was associated with a significant reduction in 30-day all-cause death compared with control and exhibited an excellent safety profile.

STUDY REGISTRATION: This study is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023478764).},
}

Humans
*Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*COVID-19/mortality
Hospitalization
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Male
Muscular Diseases/chemically induced
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40939863,
year = {2025},
author = {Filipczak, N and Yalamarty, SSK and Li, X and Pathrikar, TV and Pinapati, R and Vanjara, B and Torchilin, V},
title = {Neutrophil extracellular traps: Formation, pathological roles, and nanoparticle-based therapeutic targeting strategies.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {387},
number = {},
pages = {114220},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.114220},
pmid = {40939863},
issn = {1873-4995},
mesh = {*Extracellular Traps/drug effects/immunology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Neutrophils/immunology/drug effects ; *Nanoparticles/administration & dosage ; Inflammation/drug therapy/immunology ; Drug Delivery Systems ; },
abstract = {Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are large, web-like DNA structures released by neutrophils, coated with histones and antimicrobial proteins. They serve as a crucial defense mechanism for neutrophils against microbial invasion, playing a significant role in eliminating microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. While NETs are primarily recognized for their role in microbial defense, growing evidence indicates that excessive NET formation, triggered by physical and chemical stimuli, pathogens, or pathological factors, can worsen inflammation and cause organ damage. Understanding NETs' presence in various tissues and body fluids is crucial for elucidating their contribution to disease etiopathogenesis. By designing nanoparticles that can either prevent NET formation or facilitate their degradation, researchers aim to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive NETs. These nanotechnological interventions can be tailored to specifically target the molecular components of NETs, enhancing treatment precision and efficacy. Furthermore, nanoparticles can deliver therapeutic agents directly to inflammation sites, reducing systemic side effects and improving patient outcomes. This review summarizes the role of NETs in various pathologies, focusing on strategies to inhibit NETosis, including mechanisms of pathogen evasion, and the use of nanodelivery systems to enhance the efficiency of NETs inhibition or removal.},
}

*Extracellular Traps/drug effects/immunology
Humans
Animals
*Neutrophils/immunology/drug effects
*Nanoparticles/administration & dosage
Inflammation/drug therapy/immunology
Drug Delivery Systems

@article {pmid41108463,
year = {2025},
author = {Demongeot, J and Hillen, T and Ruan, S and Webb, G},
title = {The work of Pierre Magal on differential equations, functional analysis and mathematical biology.},
journal = {Journal of mathematical biology},
volume = {91},
number = {5},
pages = {59},
pmid = {41108463},
issn = {1432-1416},
mesh = {Humans ; Mathematical Concepts ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Models, Biological ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Population Dynamics/history ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Pierre Magal (1967-2024) was a leading researcher at the interface of differential equations, functional analysis, and mathematical biology. He made substantial contributions to both theoretical and applied aspects of these subjects. He published a dozen monographs, proceedings, and special issues and more than 125 journal articles. In this article we provide an introduction to Pierre's contributions in some topics, including discrete population dynamics, integrated semigroup theory and abstract Cauchy problems with nondense domain, traveling waves in biological systems, uniform persistence and global attractors, cell-to-cell P-glycoprotein transfer in breast cancers, transfer problems in population dynamics and economics, and modeling of various epidemic problems, in particular his recent and extensive work on modeling COVID-19.},
}

Humans
Mathematical Concepts
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Models, Biological
History, 20th Century
History, 21st Century
Population Dynamics/history
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41108384,
year = {2025},
author = {Lv, Y and Zhu, L and Li, FH and Li, H},
title = {Nonadherence to anti-VEGF intravitreal injections in patients with diabetic macular edema : The names of the authors.},
journal = {Graefe's archive for clinical and experimental ophthalmology = Albrecht von Graefes Archiv fur klinische und experimentelle Ophthalmologie},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41108384},
issn = {1435-702X},
support = {No. GSWSKY2025-086//Health Commission of Gansu Province/ ; },
abstract = {Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a principal cause of impaired vision in individuals with diabetes. The effectiveness of treatment using intravitreal injection (IVI) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) has been established in clinical trials, and it has become the treatment of choice for the majority of DME patients. However, real-world treatment outcomes for patients with DME have consistently lagged behind those reported in clinical trials. Nonadherence to IVI treatment and loss to follow-up (LTFU) limit the results of clinical treatment for patients with DME in real-world conditions.Herein, we report results from different real-world studies and analyse high levels of nonadherence to anti-VEGF treatment in patients with DME. IVI adherence may involve a variety of patient-related, condition-related, therapy-related, and COVID-19-related factors. Notably, although the overall adherence rate to IVI declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, targeted interventions addressing treatment barriers significantly improved DME patient adherence. In this review, we highlight changes in IVI practices that were implemented to reduce nonadherence in patients with DME during the pandemic, along with other emerging strategies, including assessments of the risk of visual impairment and prioritisation of treatment; distinguishing among types of appointments; modifications of anti-VEGF injection protocols; diversification of medical services, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence (AI); and improvements in patient education.Our analysis identified multifaceted factors associated with nonadherence to IVI among DME patients and proposed corresponding intervention strategies. Future investigations should focus on developing clinically feasible adherence assessment tools and standardised metrics to facilitate individualised therapeutic decision-making. We advocate for the systematic integration of adherence monitoring into standardized clinical workflows as a fundamental component of IVI management protocols. This evidence-based paradigm holds significant promise in addressing the growing practical challenges in contemporary DME management.},
}

@article {pmid41107883,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, T and Zhang, S and Liu, S and Yu, J},
title = {Digital technology integration in home-based exercise: a systematic review of research evolution, applications, and impact mechanisms.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {3528},
pmid = {41107883},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Digital Technology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Exercise ; *Exercise Therapy/methods ; Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {The integration of digital technologies in home-based exercise (HBE) has emerged as a critical public health intervention, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, comprehensive understanding of how digital technologies influence HBE research evolution and practice remains limited. This systematic review aims to: (1) map the knowledge evolution of digital technology-supported HBE research, (2) analyze innovative applications and value propositions of digital technologies in HBE, (3) identify key determinants of HBE participation in the digital era, and (4) predict future development trends. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search of the Web of Science database from 2000 to 2024, yielding 311 articles for bibliometric analysis using CiteSpace and VOSviewer. Results indicated that digital technology-supported HBE research has grown exponentially, peaking in 2022. We identified seven core research themes, including intelligent exercise training, AI-driven fall prevention, wearable device interventions, virtual reality rehabilitation, mobile health applications, cancer patient tracking systems, and remote diagnostics. These themes highlight innovative approaches to personalized training, remote monitoring, and immersive rehabilitation experiences, demonstrating significant value in enhancing exercise adherence and health outcomes. Key determinants of HBE participation were identified at personal (social support, professional guidance, self-efficacy) and technological (digital literacy, accessibility, user interface design, data privacy) levels. Digital technologies demonstrate substantial potential for enhancing HBE accessibility, improving adherence, and reducing public health burden. Future research should prioritize addressing digital equity and developing evidence-based implementation frameworks to ensure sustainable and inclusive digital health interventions.},
}

Humans
*Digital Technology
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Exercise
*Exercise Therapy/methods
Telemedicine

@article {pmid41107683,
year = {2025},
author = {Iskuzhina, L and Turaev, Z and Rozhin, A and Romanov, A and Skomorokhova, E and Ishmukhametov, I and Rozhina, E},
title = {Artificial intelligence in biology and medicine.},
journal = {Die Naturwissenschaften},
volume = {112},
number = {6},
pages = {80},
pmid = {41107683},
issn = {1432-1904},
abstract = {This article explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine and biology. Special attention is given to areas of biology such as genomics, proteomics, biotechnology, cell, and synthetic biology. In the field of medicine, the emphasis is on diagnosis, vaccine development, and treatment of various diseases, including COVID-19. The future of AI is explored, including explainable AI and biologically inspired models, as well as the synergy of AI with other advanced technologies, such as robotics and nanotechnology. The limitations and challenges facing AI are also analysed, including ethical and legal aspects, data quality issues, and the need for standardisation. The article emphasises that the potential of AI can both improve the quality of life and accelerate scientific discovery, and increase the occurrence of risks associated with its introduction into the scientific process. It concludes by emphasising the need for responsible use of AI to preserve scientific diversity and innovation.},
}

@article {pmid41106514,
year = {2025},
author = {Ma, W and Hu, ZB and Zhu, N and Yu, Y and Shen, W and Fang, WJ},
title = {An overview of needle-free injection technology in human vaccines.},
journal = {International journal of pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {126287},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2025.126287},
pmid = {41106514},
issn = {1873-3476},
abstract = {With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the harmful effects of infectious diseases have gained widespread attention among the public. Vaccination is one of the most effective means of preventing infectious diseases, and the willingness to receive vaccinations is a key factor influencing the success of vaccination programs. Infants and young children, with relatively low immune levels, are a primary target group for preventive vaccinations. However, they often exhibit strong anxiety, resistance, and crying when facing traditional needle-based injections, which highlights the clinical significance of developing needle-free vaccination methods. In recent years, needle-free injection technology has been widely applied to the administration of various medications, but its application in human vaccines remains limited, with only a few commercially available products. This paper provides a review of needle-free injection technology, covering its classification and development history, research progress in vaccine applications, the advantages of needle-free human vaccines, the current status and prospects of market applications, as well as the technical challenges and considerations involved in developing needle-free human vaccines. The review aims to explore the prospects of developing needle-free vaccine formulations for human use.},
}

@article {pmid41106257,
year = {2025},
author = {Sousa, VC and Freitas, FC and Gouveia E Silva, EC and Santos, NO and de Melo, D and da Silva, SCA and Nogueira, DSS and Fu, C and de Godoy, CG and Pompeu, JE and Schmitt, ACB},
title = {Functional impact for indication and access to physical therapy after hospital discharge due to COVID-19.},
journal = {Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {100807},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinsp.2025.100807},
pmid = {41106257},
issn = {1980-5322},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: After hospitalization for COVID-19, patients may present impairment in functionality and require physical therapy after hospital discharge for functional recovery.

OBJECTIVE: To understand the association between Covid-19 functional impacts and physical therapy indication and access 30 days and 1 year after hospital discharge of severely and critically ill patients.

METHODS: Cross-sectional study with two assessments: 30 days and one year after hospital discharge, in individuals ≥ 18 years of age, admitted to a referral hospital in São Paulo between June 2020 and July 2021. A convenience sample of 345 patients was used. The Poisson test was used to estimate the prevalence ratio for the association between Covid-19 functional impacts and physical therapy indication and access, with ≤ 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS: Of the 185 patients included, 67 % (n: 104) were indicated for physical therapy and the majority (53 %; n:79) could not access it 30 days after hospital discharge. Post-Covid-19 functional limitations were associated with physical therapy indication (PR: 1.69; 95 %CI 1.1-2.5) and impairment in basic activities of daily living (BADLs) with access 30 days (PR: 1.81; 95 %CI 1.2 -2.6) and 1 year after discharge (PR: 1.70; 95 %CI 1.2-2.3). Physical therapy indication was significant, with a 4.07 and 2.06 likelihood of access 30 days and 1 year after discharge.

CONCLUSION: Despite the lack of functional criteria at discharge, patients with poor functional performance perceived the need for physical therapy indication and referral. Indication was essential for access to physiotherapy within the healthcare network.},
}

@article {pmid41104805,
year = {2025},
author = {Luo, S and Lai, LY and Zhu, R and Gao, Y and Zhao, Z},
title = {Prevalence and duration of common symptoms in people with long COVID: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {04282},
doi = {10.7189/jogh.15.04282},
pmid = {41104805},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Prevalence ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Time Factors ; Fatigue/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, an increasing number of patients have reported persistent symptoms after recovery, a phenomenon known as long COVID. These symptoms may persist for weeks or months, affecting the patient's daily life and health. To systematically understand the long-term impact of long COVID, this study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. This study aims to determine the long-term effects of long COVID by identifying, evaluating and summarising the incidence and duration of persistent symptoms after the acute phase of COVID-19.

METHOD: We searched PubMed, Embase, and medRxiv up to August 2021 for articles and preprints presenting original research on the symptoms of long COVID. Following title/abstract and full-text screening, based on the PICOS framework, we excluded articles that did not clearly report on diagnoses, reported on symptoms lasting less than four weeks, lacked epidemiological data, or did not provide complete data. We assessed the bias of included studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. For effects reported in more than two studies, we performed meta-analysis of prevalence, and also counted the duration of each symptom.

RESULTS: We included 19 observational studies in the meta-analysis, through which we determined the incidence and duration of five common long COVID symptoms, including cognitive/memory/attention disorders (36%, unreported duration), fatigue (34%, 5.5 months), mental health problems (including anxiety and depression, 31%, 3.5-3.8 months), and dyspnoea (24%, 6.52 months) and chest pain (23%, 2 months).

CONCLUSIONS: The symptoms of long COVID usually persist after the acute phase of COVID-19. The clustering of long COVID symptoms provides a direction for studying the aetiology, diagnosis, and management of post-COVID conditions. Our findings provide important baseline data for the prevention and treatment of long COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Prevalence
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Time Factors
Fatigue/epidemiology

@article {pmid41104804,
year = {2025},
author = {Raza, MW and Uddin, F and Rahman, O and Hossain, MB},
title = {Driving the Consumer Adoption of Halal Cosmetics: A Systematic Review Using PRISMA and TCCM Framework.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {24},
number = {10},
pages = {e70479},
doi = {10.1111/jocd.70479},
pmid = {41104804},
issn = {1473-2165},
mesh = {Humans ; *Consumer Behavior/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Cosmetics ; Marketing ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 epidemic has fuelled increasing anxiety regarding the environment and religiosity. Moreover, the worldwide halal cosmetics industry is expected to experience significant growth in the years ahead. Still, the reasons that drove people all across to choose halal cosmetics are unclear.

OBJECTIVES: The study aims to find factors influencing halal cosmetics purchases. Based on the findings, the review proposes a conceptual framework and new directions for future research in the context of halal cosmetics.

METHOD: The PRISMA & TCCM framework systematically evaluates 51 empirical articles on consumers' behaviors regarding the purchase of halal cosmetics from Scopus between 2014 and 2024 for the review.

RESULTS: The review suggests forthcoming investigations to utilize Consumer Culture theory, Social Practice theory, and the UTAUT model. By highlighting patterns in halal cosmetics literature, the paper helps to guide future research in underexplored domains such as artificial intelligence and e-commerce.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The review contributes to the existing corpus of knowledge regarding the theoretical perspective of contemporary halal marketing through its proposed conceptual framework. In particular, scholars, academicians, and practitioners may delve into the reliable body of literature on halal cosmetics.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This study examines consumer behavior regarding the consumption of halal cosmetics. It pinpoints research gaps and offers future avenues using the TCCM framework. In addition, it provides the conceptual framework for measuring the behavior of halal cosmetics.},
}

Humans
*Consumer Behavior/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Cosmetics
Marketing

@article {pmid41104504,
year = {2025},
author = {Kris, LP and Dixon, DL and Bihari, S and Carr, JM},
title = {Revisiting the monocrotaline-treated rat as a model of inflammatory lung disease: COVID-19 and future pandemic threats?.},
journal = {Animal models and experimental medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ame2.70099},
pmid = {41104504},
issn = {2576-2095},
support = {//College of Medicine and Public Health, MD, Advanced Studies Program/ ; GNT2003683//Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)/ ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic posed a challenge for clinical management of a new lung disease that was characterized by inflammation, endothelial cell dysfunction, and thrombosis, which occur after the replication phase of infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). There are many laboratory models of active SARS-CoV-2 infection in mice, reflecting an acute lung injury in an otherwise healthy animal, but there is a lack of accurate animal models of the postviral inflammatory phase of the COVID-19 lung reflecting severe disease. The monocrotaline (MCT)-treated rat is a widely used laboratory model of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Not often discussed, however, are the observed changes in inflammation, edema, fibrosis, and microthrombosis in the lung prior to PH. At the cellular level, there is loss of pneumocytes and endotheliopathy, and at the molecular level the MCT rat lung is characterized by a pro-inflammatory cytokine profile, namely elevated interleukin 6, transforming growth factor β and tumor necrosis factor, M1 macrophage phenotype, and dysregulation of the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)/ACE2 balance. The systems-level pathophysiology of the MCT-treated rat includes progressive cardiopulmonary dysfunction. The MCT-treated rat clearly differs from the COVID-19 lung in terms of the triggers for pathology, but there are many parallels apparent in both the MCT-treated rat and the COVID-19 lung. The MCT-treated rat lung as a model of the COVID-19 lung may provide an in-depth understanding of the factors that drive the lung to more severe pathology, treatments that benefit lung recovery, or the factors that prove a useful research platform for future emerging respiratory threats of similar pathology.},
}

@article {pmid41103428,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Tao, R and Jiang, Y and Ma, Z and Xia, L},
title = {Risk factors for postherpetic neuralgia: a meta-analysis based on demographic, clinical features, and treatment characteristics.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1667364},
pmid = {41103428},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuralgia, Postherpetic/epidemiology/etiology/therapy ; Risk Factors ; Comorbidity ; Female ; Male ; Age Factors ; Herpes Zoster ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study aims to comprehensively analyze the independent risk factors of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) through a systematic evaluation, including demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, treatment regimens, comorbidities, and virological factors, in order to provide evidence-based support for the early identification of high-risk patients and the optimization of preventive strategies in clinical practice.

METHOD: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted to identify studies reporting risk factors for PHN. After screening the literature according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, effect size indicators such as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for each risk factor were extracted. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 15.0 software, with a random-effects model applied to pool effect sizes. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's test, and sensitivity analysis was conducted by sequentially removing individual studies to verify the robustness of the result.

RESULTS: Age (≥60 years), severe rash manifestations, prodromal pain symptoms, smoking history, alcohol abuse, immunosuppressive status, and comorbidities including diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hypertension, malignant tumors, or chronic kidney disease, along with high viral load, have been identified as independent risk factors for the development of PHN(p<0.05). In contrast, gender differences and socioeconomic status were not significantly associated with PHN incidence, with insufficient evidence observed (I²>50%, p>0.05).

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis confirms that older age (≥60 years), severe rash, prodromal pain, immunosuppressive therapy, and smoking are significant risk factors for PHN. Furthermore, it identifies alcohol abuse, T2DM, COPD, hypertension, cancer, high pain scores (as measured by VAS or NRS), and high HZ viral load as additional risk factors. COVID-19 may represent a potential risk factor that must be further investigated. The association between socioeconomic status and PHN remains inconclusive, while antibody levels against varicella-zoster virus (VZV) may serve as a protective factor.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42025629699.},
}

Humans
*Neuralgia, Postherpetic/epidemiology/etiology/therapy
Risk Factors
Comorbidity
Female
Male
Age Factors
Herpes Zoster
Middle Aged

@article {pmid41103058,
year = {2025},
author = {Moghadam, SHP and Sarkoohi, A and Navidi, Z and Amani, B and Amani, B and Khorramnia, S},
title = {Comparing the Effectiveness and Safety of Remdesivir and Molnupiravir in COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Immunity, inflammation and disease},
volume = {13},
number = {10},
pages = {e70289},
doi = {10.1002/iid3.70289},
pmid = {41103058},
issn = {2050-4527},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Hydroxylamines/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19/mortality ; *Cytidine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Treatment Outcome ; Ribonucleosides/therapeutic use ; Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Remdesivir and molnupiravir have been approved and are being used as viable treatment options for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate and compare the safety and effectiveness of these two antiviral drugs in the treatment of COVID-19.

METHODS: An extensive search was conducted across several databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and medRxiv, up to July 1, 2024. To evaluate the risk of bias, a standardized bias assessment tool was used. Data from the selected studies were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.

RESULTS: The analysis included data from 10 studies, encompassing a total of 5766 patients. According to the meta-analysis, remdesivir and molnupiravir showed no statistically significant differences in mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 2.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67, 9.57), hospitalizations (OR = 2.43, 95% CI: 0.81, 7.24), viral clearance rates (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 0.64, 3.46), or average time to viral clearance (standardized mean difference = 0.02, 95% CI: -0.40, 0.46). However, the incidence of adverse events was lower in the remdesivir group (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.26, 0.93). The certainty of evidence for these findings was evaluated and determined to be low or moderate.

CONCLUSION: The findings of this study suggest that remdesivir and molnupiravir have similar effectiveness in treating COVID-19 outpatients; however, molnupiravir is associated with a higher rate of adverse events. Additional studies are required to enable a more thorough evaluation of these treatments for COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Hydroxylamines/therapeutic use/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19/mortality
*Cytidine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Treatment Outcome
Ribonucleosides/therapeutic use
Betacoronavirus/drug effects
Pandemics

@article {pmid41103004,
year = {2025},
author = {Lokesh, BVS and Sreedharan Nair, R and Mohd Hashim, NB and Maw Shin, GS},
title = {Targeted respiratory viral infection therapy using mucoadhesive nanodrug-polymer conjugates: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Journal of biomaterials science. Polymer edition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-32},
doi = {10.1080/09205063.2025.2574939},
pmid = {41103004},
issn = {1568-5624},
abstract = {The pulmonary route presents a highly effective approach for treating respiratory infections, enabling targeted drug delivery with rapid absorption and minimal systemic toxicity. Inhalation therapy, which bypasses first-pass metabolism, offers localized treatment for conditions such as COVID-19 and influenza, providing faster relief and reducing hospitalizations. Polymeric drug-conjugate nanoparticles, proven effective in lung cancer therapies, hold promise for viral infections by enhancing drug bioavailability and targeting precision while minimizing side effects. This review explores the potential of aerosol-based antiviral drug delivery systems, specifically focusing on the design, conjugation, and application of polymeric nanoparticles using natural and biodegradable polymers. We highlight the role of mucoadhesive properties and polymer-drug conjugation to improve drug retention through electrostatic interactions with respiratory mucin, critical for effective delivery. Challenges such as aerosolization efficiency, inhaler device design, particle size, and site-specific release are discussed, along with strategies to overcome these hurdles. The use of biodegradable, pH-responsive polymers for controlled release and targeted delivery is emphasized, considering the physiological differences between healthy and infected lungs. Future strategies for scalable, self-administered inhalable polymeric nanodrug conjugates are outlined, with the potential to reduce viral loads, limit transmission, and minimize systemic side effects in the treatment of respiratory viral infections.},
}

@article {pmid41102745,
year = {2025},
author = {Ma, J and Zhang, S},
title = {Prevalence and risk factors of intimate partner violence among pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1104},
pmid = {41102745},
issn = {1471-2393},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Intimate Partner Violence/statistics & numerical data/psychology ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; *Pregnant People/psychology ; Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Intimate partner violence (IPV) has adverse physical and psychological effects on pregnant women. With regard to the influencing factors of IPV among pregnant women, discrepancies still exist in clinical studies. By identifying these factors, more targeted and effective interventions can be developed for this population. Consequently, this review aims to examine the impact of IPV on pregnant women and provide an empirical basis for the development of preventive strategies in clinical practice.

METHOD: Bibliographic databases like PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, CBM, VIP, CNKI, and Wan Fang Data were employed in the investigation for retrieving articles. A thorough evaluation of all study designs was conducted to understand the impact of IPV on pregnant women, focusing on articles published before May 2025. In total, 36,214 pregnant women were included in the studies reviewed.

RESULTS: A total of 33,355 articles were retrieved, and 37 articles were systematically screened to evaluate the influencing factors of IPV among pregnant women. The meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of IPV in pregnant women was 34%[95%CI (27%-41%)]. Sixteen significant influencing factors were identified: Age of pregnant women<25, Partner's smoking habit, Unemployed, Low level of education, Undesired pregnancy, Partner's Khat chewing habit, Partner's alcohol drinking habit, household income, Experience of violence before the current pregnancy, Parental exposure to IPV, Living alone, Rural dwellers, Income loss due to COVID-19, Household decisions made by husband alone, partner controlling behaviors, and partner has more than one wife.

CONCLUSION: IPV has detrimental effects on the physical and mental well-being of pregnant women. Consequently, prompt implementation of prevention and intervention strategies is essential to decrease the prevalence of IPV and enhance the quality of life for pregnant women. Numerous factors contribute to IPV during pregnancy. Healthcare providers should systematically identify these high-risk factors and offer targeted preventive guidance to effectively reduce its incidence at its root cause.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: CRD420251046017.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*Intimate Partner Violence/statistics & numerical data/psychology
Risk Factors
Prevalence
*Pregnant People/psychology
Adult

@article {pmid41102617,
year = {2025},
author = {Hui, DSC and Chan, KKP},
title = {Host Immunomodulatory Interventions in Severe Influenza.},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {232},
number = {Supplement_3},
pages = {S262-S272},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf328},
pmid = {41102617},
issn = {1537-6613},
support = {INF-CUHK-2//Health and Medical Research Fund Commissioned Research on Influenza/ ; HMRF 19180242//Health and Medical Research Fund Commissioned Research on Influenza/ ; T11-712/19-N//Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; and RGC theme-based research schemes/ ; T11-705/21-N//Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; and RGC theme-based research schemes/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/immunology/drug therapy/therapy ; COVID-19/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Immunomodulating Agents/therapeutic use ; Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; Immunization, Passive ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Currently, no immunomodulatory agents have been conclusively shown to benefit severe influenza. The World Health Organization conditionally advises against the use of systemic corticosteroids, macrolides, plasma therapy, mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitors, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for such patients. High-dose systemic corticosteroids may increase mortality and morbidity in severe influenza; the potential of low-dose corticosteroids merits further study given survival benefits in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Passive immunotherapy using convalescent plasma or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) from healthy donors has not proven effective, suggesting that future research should focus on hyperimmune plasma or IVIG from recent infections. An open-label randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that a triple combination of oseltamivir, clarithromycin, and naproxen improved outcomes in severe influenza. One RCT has indicated that sirolimus with corticosteroids can expedite liberation from mechanical ventilation and reduce viral load, warranting larger trials of sirolimus alone. In contrast, adding macrolides or nitazoxanide has not consistently improved clinical outcomes. Promising evidence exists for anti-C5a antibodies in COVID-19, while case reports hint that intravenous N-acetylcysteine may benefit severe influenza pneumonia. Observational data on statins remain conflicting. Further studies on COX-2 inhibitors in combination with antivirals and other immunomodulators are needed. Mycophenolic acid, pamidronate, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists are low priorities due to toxicity concerns. Research into human mesenchymal stromal cells and herbal medicine remains inconclusive. Overall, these findings support large-scale trials to validate promising results and address limitations in small studies. Treatment of severe influenza requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates antiviral and immunomodulatory strategies. Clarifying these roles may enhance patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Influenza, Human/immunology/drug therapy/therapy
COVID-19/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Immunomodulating Agents/therapeutic use
Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use
Immunization, Passive
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use
Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41102609,
year = {2025},
author = {Beigel, JH and Oldach, D},
title = {Polyclonal and Monoclonal Antibodies for the Treatment and Prevention of Influenza.},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {232},
number = {Supplement_3},
pages = {S347-S358},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf216},
pmid = {41102609},
issn = {1537-6613},
support = {//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; /NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control/therapy/drug therapy/immunology ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Antibodies, Viral/therapeutic use ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {While at least 8 monoclonal and 3 polyclonal antibody products have been tested in clinical trials for the treatment of influenza, no products have been licensed, and most have stopped clinical development. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that these approaches, especially monoclonal antibodies, may have unique potential in certain stages of disease and populations, especially in preventing severe disease in a population without preexisting immunity or in those with a limited capacity to mount an effective humoral immune response. This review summarizes past and ongoing efforts in using monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for the treatment and prevention of influenza, focusing on products that have entered clinical trials and drawing lessons from COVID-19 to direct future efforts on these strategies.},
}

Humans
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control/therapy/drug therapy/immunology
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
*Antibodies, Viral/therapeutic use
Clinical Trials as Topic

@article {pmid41102608,
year = {2025},
author = {Zambon, M and Myles, P and Sugaya, N},
title = {Use of Influenza Antivirals in Pandemic Response.},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {232},
number = {Supplement_3},
pages = {S177-S190},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf307},
pmid = {41102608},
issn = {1537-6613},
support = {//UK Health Security Agency/ ; NIHR201395//National Institute of Health Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Influenza, Human/drug therapy/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; },
abstract = {Pandemics of respiratory illness with devastating societal impact have been recognized since antiquity. This article reviews how, in the last 100 years, the response to influenza pandemics has gradually evolved from fragmented crisis response to vaccines and direct acting antivirals (DAAs).The first pandemic to make use of mass antiviral prophylaxis and treatment was in 2009. Introduction of DAAs for seasonal influenza management in 1999/2000 provided a foundation for use in the pandemic response. Lessons from the 2009 pandemic helped inform the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. DAAs, antibody therapies, and immune modulators may all have a role to play in minimizing the severity of disease from a pandemic virus strain. Rapid clinical studies evaluating potential therapeutic options will likely be necessary; an agile research infrastructure is a crucial element of a pandemic response capability. Preplanning different pandemic influenza scenarios and the likely treatment uncertainties will help maintain healthcare system preparedness.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Influenza, Human/drug therapy/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Pandemics/prevention & control
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
History, 20th Century
History, 21st Century

@article {pmid41102607,
year = {2025},
author = {Damhorst, GL and Lam, WA},
title = {Point-of-care and Home Use Influenza Diagnostics for Advancing Therapeutic and Public Health Strategies.},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {232},
number = {Supplement_3},
pages = {S314-S326},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf218},
pmid = {41102607},
issn = {1537-6613},
support = {//Flu Lab/ ; U54EB027690/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/diagnosis/therapy ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Point-of-Care Systems ; *Point-of-Care Testing ; SARS-CoV-2 ; United States ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {Point-of-care (POC) antigen-based diagnostics for influenza that have been granted waived status since the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA-waived) have been available commercially in the United States for the last 25 years. Improved sensitivity, molecular, CLIA-waived tests have entered the market in the last 10 years. More recently, a new generation of assay technologies authorized for home use and available for over-the-counter sale has been introduced primarily though Emergency Use Authorization pathways during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. While evidence for the clinical impact of waived and home use diagnostic technologies is limited, their emerging availability and capabilities carry promise for impact on influenza management. In this review, we discuss the regulatory aspects, history, and capabilities of POC and home use influenza diagnostics. We draw on specific examples from the COVID-19 pandemic to propose ways in which these technologies can advance diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and highlight areas of need for ongoing investigation.},
}

Humans
*Influenza, Human/diagnosis/therapy
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Point-of-Care Systems
*Point-of-Care Testing
SARS-CoV-2
United States
Public Health

@article {pmid41102602,
year = {2025},
author = {Bright, RA},
title = {Optimizing Antiviral Stockpiles for Pandemic Response: A Strategic Framework.},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {232},
number = {Supplement_3},
pages = {S309-S313},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf264},
pmid = {41102602},
issn = {1537-6613},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/supply & distribution/therapeutic use/economics ; *Influenza, Human/drug therapy/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Strategic Stockpile/methods ; United States/epidemiology ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Influenza antiviral stockpiling represents a critical component of pandemic preparedness, yet evolving challenges demand new approaches to this strategic imperative. The Strategic National Stockpile's target of maintaining antiviral courses for 25% of the United States population reflects both economic modeling and practical experience from recent pandemics, including the 2009 influenza A(H1N1) and coronavirus disease-19 pandemics. This perspective examines the evolution of antiviral stockpiling strategies, highlighting key lessons from these events as well as challenges in supply chain resilience, resistance management, and rapid deployment. The increasing diversity of available antivirals, from traditional neuraminidase inhibitors to a newer cap-dependent endonuclease inhibitor and emerging host-targeted therapeutics, offers opportunities for more robust stockpiling strategies. However, this diversity also introduces complexities in decision-making, storage, and deployment. Recent advances in artificial intelligence and manufacturing technologies present promising solutions for enhancing stockpile management, potentially enabling more responsive just-in-time production capabilities. The integration of rapid diagnostics, streamlined distribution systems, and novel therapeutic approaches could transform traditional stockpiling paradigms. This analysis provides a framework for optimizing antiviral stockpiles that balances immediate pandemic response capabilities with long-term strategic considerations, while addressing critical challenges in resistance management, pediatric formulations, and supply chain resilience.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/supply & distribution/therapeutic use/economics
*Influenza, Human/drug therapy/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Strategic Stockpile/methods
United States/epidemiology
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/drug effects

@article {pmid41102601,
year = {2025},
author = {Waite, AAC and Peto, L and Gordon, AC and Horby, P},
title = {Platform Trials to Assess Therapeutics in Patients Hospitalized With Influenza.},
journal = {The Journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {232},
number = {Supplement_3},
pages = {S254-S261},
doi = {10.1093/infdis/jiaf276},
pmid = {41102601},
issn = {1537-6613},
support = {NIHR155209//NIHR Health Technology Assessment program/ ; //NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre/ ; //Flu Lab Limited Liability Company/ ; //National Philanthropic Trust/ ; //Roche Products Ltd/ ; //F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/drug therapy/therapy ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Hospitalization ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Evidence-based effective treatments for hospitalized patients with influenza have yet to be identified. Traditional randomized controlled trials have struggled to provide definitive guidance due in part to small sample sizes and logistical challenges. Adaptive platform trials, such as REMAP-CAP (Randomised Embedded Multifactorial Adaptive Platform for Community-Acquired Pneumonia) and RECOVERY (Randomised Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy), offer a transformative approach to evaluating influenza therapeutics. REMAP-CAP and RECOVERY utilize flexible, efficient designs that enable the simultaneous assessment of multiple interventions, adaptation to emerging data, and large-scale recruitment. Both platforms are currently evaluating antiviral and immunomodulatory therapies for severe influenza, building on their success in identifying effective treatments for COVID-19. Establishing global platform trials for influenza will facilitate the generation of high-quality evidence to guide seasonal influenza treatment and enhance pandemic preparedness. A coordinated international effort to sustain platform trials beyond pandemic periods is essential for improving clinical outcomes, optimizing resource utilization, and ensuring readiness for future pandemics.},
}

Humans
*Influenza, Human/drug therapy/therapy
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Hospitalization
*Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/methods
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid41100177,
year = {2025},
author = {Ummer, O and Sarangi, A and Khanna, A and Mohan, D and Scott, K and LeFevre, A},
title = {Lessons Learned From Over 20 Years of Telemedicine Services in India: Scoping Review of Telemedicine Services Initiated From 2000 to 2023.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e63984},
doi = {10.2196/63984},
pmid = {41100177},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {India ; *Telemedicine/trends/organization & administration ; Humans ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: India is home to some of the world's earliest and largest telemedicine services. Since the first telemedicine services emerged in the 1990s, the growing digitization of health care services has highlighted the potential for telemedicine services to increase access to timely and appropriate care seeking, corresponding to improved health outcomes and cost savings to the individual and health system. Despite this potential, little is known about the varied typologies of telemedicine services providing in India, their design and model characteristics, scale of implementation, and the available evidence on their impact.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aims to identify the characteristics of telemedicine services in India, including the type of telemedicine model, details on the timing of delivery, health services provided, and service delivery channel. Additional details are extracted on the scale of implementation, software used, and evidence gathered, including impact on care seeking, health outcomes, and cost.

METHODS: Telemedicine services in India were identified through searches of Google, the Google Play Store, 3 major scientific databases (Embase, PubMed, and Scopus), and a reference review of identified peer-reviewed articles. Included services were restricted to those implemented in India between January 1, 2010, and July 4, 2023, which included humans, and were published in the English language. Once identified, articles were imported to Covidence, and the process of abstract screening was initiated using 2 independent reviewers and a third person to resolve conflicts. Full-text articles were screened, and data were extracted into Microsoft Excel.

RESULTS: A total of 2368 articles were identified, 151 of which were included for the full-text review and data extraction. From the 151 studies, a total of 115 unique services were identified and further classified based on a scale-moderate to large (n=89) and small (n=26). Among moderate- to large-scale services (n=89), 75 used specialized software and 14 used nonspecialized software, such as WhatsApp. On average, 3 new telemedicine services were initiated annually from 2000 to 2019, and the growth of new services occurred predominantly in the private sector. Evidence was available for 43% (32/75) of the telemedicine services. While 21 services reported on some facet of the quality of care, no studies systematically assessed quality of care. Where structured surveys were reported, questions were often leading, used longer Likert scale response options, and asked respondents about broad constructs subject to varied interpretations (eg, quality of care or satisfaction). Additional details on model characteristics, reach, and impact are presented.

CONCLUSIONS: The widespread proliferation of telemedicine services in India has much potential to improve access to and continuity of timely and appropriate care seeking for health. However, improved evidence demonstrating the impact of telemedicine services on care seeking, quality of care, cost, and health outcomes is needed.},
}

India
*Telemedicine/trends/organization & administration
Humans
COVID-19

@article {pmid41045746,
year = {2026},
author = {Sulaiman, KA and Alharthi, AF and Alqahtani, R and Aljouie, A and Khan, A and Al-Jedai, A and Almoeen, A and Alshennawi, M and Badreldin, HA and Alnasser, LA and Alshehri, AM and Alzahrani, M and Alhaidal, HA and Alhajaji, R and Alotaibi, S and Redhwan, EZ and Alharthi, F and Alghamdi, BG and Alquayt, A and Aljuhani, O},
title = {Ethical, data security, and resource allocation considerations in AI integration for healthcare during Hajj: task force insights and future directions.},
journal = {International journal of medical informatics},
volume = {205},
number = {},
pages = {106123},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2025.106123},
pmid = {41045746},
issn = {1872-8243},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence/ethics ; *Computer Security/ethics ; *Islam ; Saudi Arabia ; *Resource Allocation/ethics ; *Mass Gatherings ; Advisory Committees ; *Delivery of Health Care/ethics ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hajj represents one of the largest mass gatherings globally, attracting millions of pilgrims annually from various cultural and geographical backgrounds, all coming together to participate in its holy rituals. The unprecedented scale of this event necessitates advanced strategies to ensure safety, and efficiency in resource management. As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology becomes increasingly prevalent in managing large-scale gatherings, it raises vital ethical questions regarding privacy, data use, and the risk of mass surveillance. This paper explores the integration of AI during Hajj, with a specific focus on ethical considerations, data security measures, and strategies for allocating limited healthcare and logistical resources.

METHODS: A task force was formed consisting of experts, including healthcare providers, AI specialists, and representatives from the Saudi Society for Multidisciplinary Research Development and Education (SCAPE Society), the Saudi Critical Care Pharmacy Research Platform (SCAPE platform), the Saudi Society of Clinical Pharmacy (SSCP), policymakers, and frontline healthcare practitioners involved in Hajj. The task force initially agreed on the framework and voting system, and consensus was achieved through a voting system that required over 80% agreement.

RESULTS: The task force identified key focus areas: 1) AI Ethics: Bias, Fairness, Transparency and Explainability. 2) Ethical Deployment in Hajj Healthcare 3) Data Security Considerations: Key Challenges in Data Security, Advanced Security Measures, and Saudi Arabia's Cybersecurity Framework 4) Resource Allocation Considerations: AI for Dynamic Resource Management, Enhancing Healthcare Supply Chain, and Stakeholder Collaboration. The task force developed a comprehensive set of statements designed to provide direction for future initiatives.

CONCLUSION: Enhancing the integration of AI in healthcare during mass gatherings neccessitates a strong focus on ethical considerations and data security measures. Addressing ethical concerns is crucial to ensure that AI systems are used responsibly and transparently. Robust protocols for data protection must be implemented to safeguard patient information and maintain trust in healthcare systems.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence/ethics
*Computer Security/ethics
*Islam
Saudi Arabia
*Resource Allocation/ethics
*Mass Gatherings
Advisory Committees
*Delivery of Health Care/ethics
COVID-19

@article {pmid38548559,
year = {2025},
author = {Katz, C and Cohen, N and Attrash-Najjar, A and Glucklich, T and Jacobson, M and Varela, N and Priolo-Filho, SR and Chang, OD and Haffejee, S and Kaawa-Mafigiri, D and Katz, I and Maguire-Jack, K and Massarweh, N and Tarabulsy, GM and Levine, DT and Wekerle, C},
title = {The remote work of child protection professionals during COVID-19: A scoping review and thematic analysis.},
journal = {Child abuse & neglect},
volume = {168},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {106759},
doi = {10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106759},
pmid = {38548559},
issn = {1873-7757},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Child Protective Services/organization & administration ; *Child Abuse/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Teleworking ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic created new challenges and barriers for the work of child protection professionals (CPPs) and intensified existing hardships for families and children, increasing the risk of child maltreatment. As new restrictions and precautions were implemented by governments worldwide to stop the virus from spreading, CPPs had to adapt to a new reality of working remotely. However, limited research has investigated how remote work impacted CPPs and child protection work and how CPPs handled this alternative work style.

OBJECTIVE: This review aims to address gaps in the research to reveal the creative and effective approaches CPPs developed to overcome the challenges presented by COVID-19, defined as the 'positive legacy' of CPPs, particularly in adapting to remote work challenges.

METHOD: This review was conducted using a scoping review, followed by two rounds of thematic analysis. The scoping review was conducted in six languages: Hebrew, Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

RESULTS: The first round of thematic analysis found 18 articles relevant to this review. The second round extracted two main themes: 1) the challenges of remote work and 2) overcoming the challenges of no contact.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this review may be used to inform future strategies for child protection during a pandemic. They also provide an opportunity to rethink the relationship child protection work has with technology to systematically reform current and future protection policies and practices, including outside of a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Child Protective Services/organization & administration
*Child Abuse/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
*Teleworking

@article {pmid38008657,
year = {2025},
author = {Katz, C and Attrash-Najjar, A and Cohen, N and Glucklich, T and Jacobson, M and Varela, N and Priolo-Filho, SR and Bérubé, A and Chang, OD and Collin-Vézina, D and Fouché, A and Haffejee, S and Katz, I and Maguire-Jack, K and Massarweh, N and O'Reilly, M and Tiwari, A and Truter, E and de Andrade Vieira, RV and Walker-Williams, H and Zibetti, MR and Wekerle, C},
title = {Child protective services and out-of-home Care for Children during COVID-19: A scoping review and thematic analysis.},
journal = {Child abuse & neglect},
volume = {168},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {106540},
doi = {10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106540},
pmid = {38008657},
issn = {1873-7757},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Child Protective Services/organization & administration ; *Child Abuse/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Child Welfare ; Foster Home Care ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic challenged child protection and posed new risks for child maltreatment (CM). Moreover, governmental efforts worldwide prioritized mitigating the spread of the virus over ensuring the welfare and protection of families and children. This neglect caused hardship for many vulnerable children, including those in out-of-home care (OOHC), and challenged the functionality of child protective services (CPS). However, only limited research has investigated the impact of COVID-19 on OOHC and CPS and explored how CPS overcame the challenges of helping children in OOHC.

OBJECTIVE: This review aims to address this gap in the research to unveil the 'positive legacy' left by CPS in their work with children in OOHC during COVID-19.

METHOD: This review utilized three stages of analysis, including a scoping review followed by two rounds of thematic analysis. The scoping review was carried out in six languages: English, Hebrew, Arabic, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. The first round of thematic analysis found eight relevant articles for this review. The second round of thematic analysis found three themes related to this paper's aim in the context of COVID-19.

RESULTS: Three main themes were identified: 1) decision-making and OOHC, 2) difficulties in procedures related to OOHC placement, and 3) handling challenges of OOHC.

CONCLUSIONS: The discussion emphasizes the crucial role of preserving children's rights, hearing their voices and needs, and considering their safety and well-being when planning policies and practices to protect them. It also emphasizes society's responsibility to acknowledge contextual factors in child protection.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Child Protective Services/organization & administration
*Child Abuse/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Child Welfare
Foster Home Care

@article {pmid37479549,
year = {2025},
author = {Katz, C and Glucklich, T and Attrash-Najjar, A and Jacobson, M and Cohen, N and Varela, N and Priolo-Filho, SR and Bérubé, A and Chang, OD and Collin-Vézina, D and Fouché, A and Haffejee, S and Katz, I and Maguire-Jack, K and Massarweh, N and O'Reilly, M and Tiwari, A and Truter, E and de Andrade Vieira, RV and Walker-Williams, H and Zibetti, MR and Wekerle, C},
title = {The global impact of COVID-19 on child protection professionals: A scoping review and thematic analysis.},
journal = {Child abuse & neglect},
volume = {168},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {106347},
doi = {10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106347},
pmid = {37479549},
issn = {1873-7757},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Child ; Adaptation, Psychological ; *Child Protective Services ; *Child Abuse/prevention & control ; Resilience, Psychological ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic triggered new risks for child maltreatment (CM) and exacerbated existing challenges for families and children, elevating the importance of child protection professionals (CPPs) while also adding barriers to their work. During the pandemic, many CPPs experienced increased workloads, a disrupted work environment, and personal pandemic-related hardships. However, the scope of how COVID-19 impacted CPPs globally, as well as their adopted coping strategies, have not been well explored.

OBJECTIVE: This study addresses these gaps in the research by conducting an international scoping review to explore and analyze these topics.

METHOD: The scoping review was performed in six languages: English, Hebrew, Arabic, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, across 16 databases. Sixteen manuscripts were included in the final thematic analysis of this review.

RESULTS: Two main themes were identified: 1) the impact of COVID-19 on CPPs, and 2) the coping and adaptation strategies employed by CPPs during COVID-19. This review revealed and emphasized the importance of CPPs' resilience during COVID-19, underpinned by the theoretical framework of the social ecology of resilience.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the responsibility of social ecologies and organizational structures to create readiness for a rapid response in times of crisis as well as valuable evidence to inform how CPPs, children, and families may be better supported in the event of a future crisis.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Child
Adaptation, Psychological
*Child Protective Services
*Child Abuse/prevention & control
Resilience, Psychological
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41098900,
year = {2025},
author = {Modipane, N and Mbambara, S and Serite, T and Sathekge, M and Kgatle, M},
title = {Classification and regulatory interactions of key transcription factors in COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1645333},
pmid = {41098900},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/metabolism/virology/genetics/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Transcription Factors/metabolism/classification/genetics ; Protein Processing, Post-Translational ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; NF-E2-Related Factor 2/metabolism ; Oxidative Stress ; Inflammation ; Ubiquitination ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, interferes with the host's transcriptional control systems, triggering widespread disruption of immune regulation and metabolic stability. Key transcription factors (TFs), including AHR, NRF2, NF-κB, IRFs, HIF-1α, PARP, STAT3, ATF3, and PPARγ, play crucial roles in inflammation, oxidative stress defence, anti-viral responses, and immunometabolic adaptation. Their activity and interactions are modulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs) such as phosphorylation, SUMOylation, and ubiquitination, which shape COVID-19 progression. Specifically, SUMOylation of PPARγ suppresses NF-κB-driven inflammation, though impairment under severe disease amplifies macrophage activation and cytokine release. NRF2 degradation via KEAP1-CUL3-mediated ubiquitination is manipulated by the virus to deregulate oxidative stress responses, while SARS-CoV-2 also modulates NF-κB activity through ubiquitination of viral proteins (e.g., NSP6, ORF7a). Dynamic crosstalk between AHR and NRF2 further illustrates TF duality in detoxification and inflammation, with SUMOylation potentially influencing nuclear retention and transcriptional precision. This review classifies transcription factors into four functional categories: inflammatory regulators, antiviral response mediators, stress and pathogen response elements, and metabolic modulators. It further examines how PTM-driven crosstalk contributes to immune dysregulation. Targeting these transcriptional networks presents promising therapeutic strategies to mitigate hyperinflammation, rebalance immune responses, and enhance clinical outcomes in COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/metabolism/virology/genetics/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Transcription Factors/metabolism/classification/genetics
Protein Processing, Post-Translational
Host-Pathogen Interactions
NF-E2-Related Factor 2/metabolism
Oxidative Stress
Inflammation
Ubiquitination

@article {pmid41098416,
year = {2025},
author = {Kuo, WT and Lai, IH},
title = {Medication, Nutrition, and Hygiene in COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment: A Comprehensive Narrative Review.},
journal = {Global challenges (Hoboken, NJ)},
volume = {9},
number = {10},
pages = {e00223},
pmid = {41098416},
issn = {2056-6646},
abstract = {Despite advances in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention and treatment, emerging variants and persistent challenges continue to affect global health. Studies are retrieved from PubMed using title-based searches for COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, and related therapies from 2020 to 2025, focusing on randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines. This review explores treatments, nutrients, and adjuvant therapies that support the immune system in fighting COVID-19. It highlights the role of antiviral medications such as remdesivir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, and molnupiravir in reducing mortality and hospitalizations. Additionally, adjunctive therapies like corticosteroids, interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibitors, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) are discussed for their potential to modulate inflammation. Nutritional support, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins D, C, and A, zinc, selenium, and probiotics, enhances immune function. Preventive measures, such as hygiene practices, wearing masks, and physical distancing, reduce transmission. An integrated approach that combines antiviral treatments with adjunctive therapies, prevention, and nutrition is crucial for improving outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41098329,
year = {2025},
author = {Shyam, T and Atuaka, C and Venigalla, M and Sinokrot, O},
title = {Scars from the pandemic: understanding post-COVID-19 interstitial lung disease.},
journal = {Breathe (Sheffield, England)},
volume = {21},
number = {4},
pages = {250037},
pmid = {41098329},
issn = {1810-6838},
abstract = {Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, the world continues to record acute cases of COVID-19 infection and witness its residual effects. Lung injury persisting beyond the resolution of acute viral pneumonia has been a known entity since the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak in 2005. However, residual interstitial lung disease (ILD) secondary to COVID-19 infection has become a new entity of interest due to the widespread and global impact of COVID-19. Post-COVID-19 ILD (PC-ILD) has emerged as a unique entity with age, male sex, smoking and the severity of acute illness as risk factors. Using current evidence, we discuss possible mechanisms for disease occurrence and the genetic similarities between PC-ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Characteristic radiographic findings, pulmonary function abnormalities and potential therapies are also discussed. As the world moves away from the acute phase of the pandemic, obtaining information on the long-term consequences of this disease becomes even more crucial. Continued research in this field is vital to guide decisions and obtain better outcomes in treatment and follow-up.},
}

@article {pmid41098085,
year = {2025},
author = {Arca, KN and Bazarsky, AB and Yuan, DY and Villanueva, R and Friedman, DI and Charles, A and , },
title = {Telemedicine is effective and safe for clinical management of patients with headache disorders: An American Headache Society position statement.},
journal = {Headache},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/head.15084},
pmid = {41098085},
issn = {1526-4610},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES/BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to review the published literature and provide a position statement from the American Headache Society regarding the safety, efficacy, and impact on access to care of telemedicine for the clinical management of patients with headache disorders. Access to specialized care in headache medicine is severely limited in the United States and worldwide. Telemedicine has been used as an approach to care delivery in headache medicine for more than a decade, with accelerated adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic. There is now uncertainty regarding the extent to which telemedicine will be accepted by health systems and reimbursed by payers moving forward. The purpose of this position statement is to summarize evidence and clinical experience supporting the utility of telemedicine in headache medicine.

METHODS: Evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of telemedicine, and patient and clinician satisfaction with the use of telemedicine for headache specialty care, was gathered from a variety of sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The results and conclusions based upon these results were reviewed and discussed by the authors and the Board of Directors of the American Headache Society to confirm consistency with clinical experience and to achieve consensus.

RESULTS: Several randomized clinical trials and observational studies have been performed to compare telemedicine with in-person visits in the management of patients with headache disorders. These studies showed consistently that telemedicine is noninferior to in-person care based upon multiple outcome measures, including disability measures, patient satisfaction, and clinician satisfaction. In addition, these studies found that telemedicine rarely leads to a missed diagnosis of secondary headache or mismanagement of primary headache. Telemedicine has substantial advantages for patients, including improved access to care and reduced costs associated with obtaining care. Studies evaluating health care utilization indicate no significant differences between patients evaluated and treated virtually versus in person. Obvious limitations of telemedicine include the inability to perform an in-person physical exam or to perform injections. For a substantial number of patients, however, these limitations are outweighed by its advantages. The experience with telemedicine reported in the literature is consistent with the experience of the Board of Directors of the American Headache Society, who endorse its use for patients when feasible and appropriate.

CONCLUSION: Telemedicine has significantly advanced the care of patients with headache disorders. Its further development and deployment should be supported and reimbursed.},
}

@article {pmid41097203,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohib, O and Bomans, S and Jimenez Garcia, B and Leemans, L and Ligneel, C and De Waele, E and Beckwée, D and Janssens, P},
title = {Clinical Benefits of Exogenous Ketosis in Adults with Disease: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {17},
number = {19},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nu17193125},
pmid = {41097203},
issn = {2072-6643},
support = {G075423N//Research Foundation - Flanders/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Ketosis ; *Ketone Bodies/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Adult ; Cardiovascular Diseases ; *Metabolic Diseases ; COVID-19 ; Mental Disorders/drug therapy ; Nervous System Diseases ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Ketone bodies are increasingly studied for their potential therapeutic effects, particularly through exogenous ketosis, in a variety of diseases. This systematic review aimed to rigorously assess the clinical efficacy of exogenous ketosis in adults with medical conditions.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched MEDLINE and Scopus databases. Our inclusion criteria were defined according to the PICOS framework, focusing on studies involving exogenous ketosis in adult patients with specific diseases. The study is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42023492846).

RESULTS: After a stringent selection process, fifty-one studies were analyzed. Twenty-two studies focused on neurological disorders, one on psychiatric disorders, twenty-two on metabolic disorders, five on cardiovascular disorders, and one on an inflammatory disorder. Exogenous ketosis demonstrated potential benefits across multiple conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, mild cognitive impairment, McArdle's disease, various forms of heart failure, cardiogenic shock, pulmonary hypertension, and COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome, although evidence is mostly limited to surrogate endpoints with insufficient hard outcome data. Subtherapeutic ketone concentrations induced by medium-chain triglycerides and limited follow-up periods often precluded firm conclusions regarding clinically meaningful outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Exogenous ketosis shows potential in neurological, metabolic, and cardiovascular disorders, while evidence in psychiatric and inflammatory conditions remains scarce and preliminary. Ketone esters appear preferable for effective and tolerable ketosis. Future research should focus on identifying responsive patient populations, optimizing treatment regimens, and conducting long-term clinical trials with hard endpoints to validate these findings.},
}

Humans
*Ketosis
*Ketone Bodies/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Adult
Cardiovascular Diseases
*Metabolic Diseases
COVID-19
Mental Disorders/drug therapy
Nervous System Diseases