@article {pmid40432602,
year = {2025},
author = {Mikkelsen, K and Zaccagnini, M and Brunton, G and Hosseini, A and Tan, MC and Nonoyama, ML},
title = {Characteristics of Rapidly Manufactured Ventilators: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Respiratory care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/respcare.12549},
pmid = {40432602},
issn = {1943-3654},
abstract = {Many health care systems worldwide were ill-prepared for the mass-casualty surge caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mechanical ventilator shortages prompted the production of rapidly manufactured ventilators (RMVs). However, without standards to develop them, the effectiveness and safety of RMVs remain uncertain. The purpose of this study was to map the breadth and depth of the literature on RMVs and provide suggestions for effective and safe designs. A scoping review, following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, was completed. A search of 9 electronic databases and Google Scholar was completed in April 2022 and updated in 2024. Dual screening and data extraction were conducted using predefined criteria based on 6 previously published RMV guidance documents. Results were collated into descriptive summaries and tables and used to develop the suggested standards. There were 66 RMVs described within 66 articles. The majority (60, 91%) of articles were published post-COVID-19 (2020), with 24 (36%) from the United States. Four designs were identified: 18 (27%) electro-pneumatic (E-P), 27 (41%) automatic compression of manual resuscitator (MR), 6 (9%) automatic compression of MR with E-P components (E-P and MR), and 15 (23%) "other." The E-P designs mimicked conventional ventilators and MR designs incorporated an MR with a motor and arm. Four RMV characteristic categories emerged from the data: operating features, performance features, other features outside routine use, and engineering features. There was significant variability in the RMV designs. Eleven suggestions regarding RMV design, performance, and testing were developed. This study provides preliminary information to inform the standardization of RMV designs to guide future manufacturing for effective and safe use. Although pandemic urgency has waned, RMV utility may extend to future mass-casualty scenarios (eg, natural disasters, wars) and in low- and middle-income countries, which often lack sufficient resources even under normal conditions.},
}

@article {pmid40432133,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, J and Amin, MA and Campian, JL},
title = {Past, Present, and Future of Viral Vector Vaccine Platforms: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432133},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Over the past several decades, viral vector-based vaccines have emerged as some of the most versatile and potent platforms in modern vaccinology. Their capacity to deliver genetic material encoding target antigens directly into host cells enables strong cellular and humoral immune responses, often superior to what traditional inactivated or subunit vaccines can achieve. This has accelerated their application to a wide array of pathogens and disease targets, from well-established threats like HIV and malaria to emerging infections such as Ebola, Zika, and SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the agility of viral vector platforms, with several adenovirus-based vaccines quickly authorized and deployed on a global scale. Despite these advances, significant challenges remain. One major hurdle is pre-existing immunity against commonly used vector backbones, which can blunt vaccine immunogenicity. Rare but serious adverse events, including vector-associated inflammatory responses and conditions like vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), have raised important safety considerations. Additionally, scaling up manufacturing, ensuring consistency in large-scale production, meeting rigorous regulatory standards, and maintaining equitable global access to these vaccines present profound logistical and ethical dilemmas. In response to these challenges, the field is evolving rapidly. Sophisticated engineering strategies, such as integrase-defective lentiviral vectors, insect-specific flaviviruses, chimeric capsids to evade neutralizing antibodies, and plug-and-play self-amplifying RNA approaches, seek to bolster safety, enhance immunogenicity, circumvent pre-existing immunity, and streamline production. Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and prior outbreaks are guiding the development of platform-based approaches designed for rapid deployment during future public health emergencies. This review provides an exhaustive, in-depth examination of the historical evolution, immunobiological principles, current platforms, manufacturing complexities, regulatory frameworks, known safety issues, and future directions for viral vector-based vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40432119,
year = {2025},
author = {Iwu-Jaja, C and Ndwandwe, D and Malinga, T and Mathebula, L and Mazingisa, A and Wiysonge, CS},
title = {Vaccine Research Trends in Africa from 2016 to Mid-2024: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432119},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccine research publications play a crucial role in the scientific process by strategically linking the generation of knowledge with its translation into vaccine policy and practice. This study was designed to understand vaccine and immunization research publication trends in Africa to inform strategic directions for vaccine research and innovation efforts in the continent.

METHODS: We searched PubMed only for vaccine and immunization-related publications from Africa between 1 January 2016 and 8 August 2024. Metrics such as annual growth rates, geographical distribution, international collaboration, and trend topics were analyzed. We conducted separate analyses for general vaccine research, vaccine clinical trials, and vaccine evidence syntheses (systematic reviews and meta-analyses).

RESULTS: Vaccine research in Africa demonstrated an annual growth rate of 55.4% (based on the 10,000 records retrieved due to PubMed's export limit), while vaccine trials saw a decline of 6.08% during the study period. The trend topics analysis across vaccine research, trials, and reviews showed that topics shifted from a focus on general vaccine development, immunization, and malaria pre-2020 to COVID-19-related topics in 2020, with post-2020 research returning to traditional topics like immunization schedules, vaccine safety, and pediatric and maternal vaccines. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on vaccine research, leading to a surge in publications for vaccine research, trials, and reviews. About 65.8% of vaccine research featured international co-authorship. Vaccine trials had a higher rate of international co-authorship at 79.8%.

CONCLUSION: While vaccine research in general in Africa has increased, vaccine trials do not match this increase. The number of clinical trials remained relatively stagnant, reflecting ongoing challenges in the vaccine research ecosystem, particularly in building and sustaining clinical trial capacity across the region. In addition, disparities in research productivity exist between countries. Research prioritization, strategic collaborations, capacity building for research, and improved research infrastructure require critical consideration.},
}

@article {pmid40432106,
year = {2025},
author = {Sayedahmed, EE and Gairola, V and Murala, MST and Mittal, SK},
title = {Bovine Adenoviral Vector-Based Platform for Vaccine Development.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432106},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {AI059374/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; AI158177/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; Hatch#1014146//USDA/ ; },
abstract = {Adenoviral (AdV) vector-based vaccines employing the human AdV (HAdV) and chimpanzee AdV (ChAdV) vector platforms played a crucial role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the widespread use of these platforms, the prevalence of various HAdV types, and the resulting preexisting immunity have significantly impacted the vaccines utilizing these vector platforms. Considering these challenges, the bovine AdV type 3 (BAdV-3) vector system has emerged as a versatile and innovative platform for developing next-generation vaccines against infectious diseases. Inherent attributes like a high transduction efficiency, large transgene insertion capacity, broad tissue tropism, and robust induction of innate immunity add significant value to the BAdV vector platform for vaccine design. BAdV-3 vectors effectively elude HAdV-specific preexisting humoral and cellular immune responses. Additionally, BAdV-3 is low in pathogenicity for its host and is anticipated to be safe as a vaccine platform. This systematic review provides an overview of the development of BAdV-3 as a vaccine delivery platform and its application in designing vaccines for infectious agents of human and veterinary importance.},
}

@article {pmid40432093,
year = {2025},
author = {Lino, MM and Mather, S and Trani, M and Chen, Y and Caubel, P and De Bernardi, B},
title = {Challenges and Innovations in Pharmacovigilance and Signal Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Industry Perspective.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432093},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Vaccine marketing authorization holders (MAHs) are responsible for the conduction of global vaccine pharmacovigilance on their vaccine products. A safety signal is detected when a new adverse event (AE) or aspect of an AE occurs after exposure to the vaccine and warrants further investigation to determine whether a causal association may exist. Signal detection and evaluation (signal management) begins at the start of vaccine development, before an MAH submits an application for authorization to regulatory authorities, continues through the course of all clinical trials, and carries on beyond development into the post-marketing phase. As long as the vaccine remains authorized anywhere in the world, pharmacovigilance continues. During the time that the COVID-19 vaccine became widely available after authorization and approval, clinical trials were also ongoing, and therefore all clinical development and post-authorization safety information was closely monitored for safety by the MAH. MAH pharmacovigilance activities were adapted to manage the unprecedented volume of safety information that became available within a very short timeframe following worldwide vaccination campaigns. No vaccine had previously been administered to such a large number of individuals in such a short time, nor had there previously been a public health vaccine experience that was the subject of so many medical and non-medical writings. The MAH's COVID-19 vaccine signal detection methods included the continuous review of accruing clinical trial data and the quantitative and qualitative analyses of spontaneously reported experiences. Review of published and unpublished medical literature and epidemiology-based analyses such as observed vs. expected analysis based on reported adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) played key roles in pharmacovigilance and signal management. All methods of signal detection and evaluation have caveats, but when considered in totality, can advance our understanding of a vaccine's safety profile and therefore the risk-benefit considerations for vaccinating both individuals and large populations of people. All COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use were subject to an unprecedented level of pharmacovigilance by their individual MAHs, national regulatory authorities, public health organizations, and others during the years immediately following regulatory authorization and full approval. The intense worldwide focus on pharmacovigilance and the need for MAHs and regulatory/health authorities to quickly evaluate incoming safety information, spurred frequent and timely communications between national and regional health authorities and between MAHs and regulatory/health authorities, spotlighting a unique opportunity for individuals committed to patient safety to share important accruing safety information in a collegial and less traditionally formal manner than usual. The global pandemic precipitated by the SARS-CoV-2 virus created a significant impetus for MAHs to develop innovative vaccines to change the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacovigilance also had to meet unprecedented needs. In this article, unique aspects of COVID-19 vaccine pharmacovigilance encountered by one MAH will be summarized.},
}

@article {pmid40432085,
year = {2025},
author = {Skerritt, JH},
title = {Considerations for mRNA Product Development, Regulation and Deployment Across the Lifecycle.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432085},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {With the successful deployment of several mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, an mRNA vaccine against RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and a large pipeline of mRNA products against other infectious diseases, cancers and rare diseases, it is important to examine the whole product lifecycle. mRNA technology enables product design, testing and manufacturing systems to be rapidly developed, but these advantages can be lost if other factors that determine public access are not closely considered. This review analyzes key aspects of the mRNA product lifecycle including candidate design, manufacturing, quality systems and product safety and storage. Regulatory thinking is well advanced in some countries but not others, but more thought on the regulation of mRNA vaccines outside of a pandemic situation as well as mRNA therapeutics including individual neoantigen therapies and rare disease treatments is needed. Consumer acceptance-the "social license to operate" around mRNA products-is critical for their uptake, particularly outside of a pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40432077,
year = {2025},
author = {Franchini, M and Maggi, F and Focosi, D},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccination in Patients with Hematological Malignances.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432077},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {Programme CCM 2020 Ricerca Corrente-Linea 1 on emerging and re-emerging infections//italian ministry of health/ ; },
abstract = {Patients with hematologic malignancies (HM) represent a population particularly vulnerable to infections due to their cancer-related immune deficiency and the immunosuppressive treatment they are administered. Accordingly, a high hospitalization and mortality rate has been consistently reported in such a frail population during the first COVID-19 pandemic waves. After a brief description of the clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with blood cancers, this narrative review is focused on the protective effect of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with HM. All in all, the results from the literature analysis indicate that booster shots in fully vaccinated HM patients are significantly able to increase seroconversion rates, which represent the best surrogate of vaccine efficacy. Despite these encouraging data, concerns still remain regarding the lower immune responses to COVID-19 vaccines, even to booster doses, in severely immunosuppressed HM patients, such as those receiving anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapies and hematopoietic stem cell transplants.},
}

@article {pmid40432073,
year = {2025},
author = {Min Htike, WY and Zhang, M and Wu, Z and Zhou, X and Lyu, S and Kam, YW},
title = {Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy in College Students Post COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review Using COVID-19 as a Case Study.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432073},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {00AKUG0130//Division of Natural and Applied Sciences, Duke Kunshan University/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Resistance to vaccinations continues to pose a considerable challenge to attaining widespread vaccination, especially among the college student demographic, who are pivotal in championing public health initiatives. This systematic review investigates the elements that influence reluctance to receive the COVID-19 vaccine among university students globally. Utilizing the WHO's 3C model, which encompasses confidence, complacency, and convenience, this review seeks to pinpoint the main factors and suggest focused strategies to address them. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Global Health. Eligible studies were cross-sectional, peer-reviewed, and examined COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among college students. Covidence was used for screening, and data were synthesized narratively using the 3C model. Results: Sixty-seven studies (n = 88,345 participants) from 25 countries were included in this study. Confidence factors were the most influential, with fear of side effects (87.18%) and doubts about efficacy (72.4%) as primary concerns. Complacency factors included a low perceived risk of infection (34.9%) and a preference for alternative preventive measures (52.3%). Convenience barriers involved financial costs (58.1%) and difficulty accessing vaccination centers (40.3%). Subgroup analyses revealed variations by academic discipline and geographic region, with medical students showing hesitancy despite their health knowledge. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among college students is primarily driven by safety concerns, misinformation, and accessibility barriers. Addressing hesitancy requires transparent risk communication, policy-driven accessibility improvements, and tailored educational interventions. These findings can inform strategies to enhance vaccine uptake among young adults and contribute to broader efforts in pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid40432062,
year = {2025},
author = {Santilli, V and Sgrulletti, M and Costagliola, G and Beni, A and Mastrototaro, MF and Montin, D and Rizzo, C and Martire, B and Miraglia Del Giudice, M and Moschese, V and , },
title = {Maternal Immunization: Current Evidence, Progress, and Challenges.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40432062},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Maternal immunization is a key strategy for protecting pregnant individuals and newborns from infectious diseases. This review examines the mechanisms and benefits of maternal immunization, with a focus on transplacental IgG transfer and immune system interactions. We provide an overview of current recommendations and the safety and efficacy profiles of maternal vaccines, including influenza, tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, and hepatitis B. Additionally, we analyze the barriers to maternal immunization, such as misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and disparities in healthcare access, while exploring potential strategies to overcome these challenges through targeted educational initiatives, improved provider communication, and policy-driven interventions aimed at increasing vaccine confidence and accessibility. Finally, this review highlights recent innovations and future directions in maternal immunization, including emerging vaccines for Group B Streptococcus and cytomegalovirus. Expanding immunization programs and advancing research on maternal-fetal immunity are essential to optimizing vaccination strategies, improving public health outcomes, and reducing the global burden of infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40378861,
year = {2025},
author = {Amstutz, A and Schandelmaier, S and Ewald, H and Speich, B and Schwenke, JM and Schönenberger, CM and Schobinger, S and Agoritsas, T and Tomashek, KM and Nayak, S and Makowski, M and Morales-Ortega, A and Bernal-Bello, D and Pomponio, G and Ferrarini, A and Ghazaeian, M and Hall, F and Bond, S and García-Morales, MT and Jiménez-González, M and Arribas, JR and Guimaraães, PO and Tavares, CAM and Berwanger, O and Yazdanpanah, Y and Simensen, VC and Lacombe, K and Hites, M and Ader, F and Tacconelli, E and Mentré, F and Belhadi, D and Massonnaud, CR and Laouénan, C and Diallo, A and Baldé, A and Assoumou, L and Costagliola, D and Ponzi, E and Rueegg, CS and Olsen, IC and Trøseid, M and Briel, M},
title = {Effects of Janus kinase inhibitors in adults admitted to hospital due to COVID-19: a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials.},
journal = {The Lancet. Respiratory medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {530-544},
doi = {10.1016/S2213-2600(25)00055-4},
pmid = {40378861},
issn = {2213-2619},
mesh = {Humans ; *Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/mortality ; Hospitalization ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pyrimidines/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Purines/therapeutic use ; Sulfonamides/therapeutic use ; Nitriles ; Azetidines/therapeutic use ; Piperidines/therapeutic use ; Pyrazoles/therapeutic use ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence from randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors-compared with usual care or placebo-in adults treated in hospital for COVID-19 is conflicting. We aimed to evaluate the benefits and harms of JAK inhibitors compared with placebo or usual care and whether treatment effects differed between prespecified participant subgroups.

METHODS: For this systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis (IPDMA), we searched Medline via Ovid, Embase via Elsevier, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, and the COVID-19 L·OVE Platform, including backward and forward citation searching (last search Nov 28, 2024), for RCTs (unpublished or published in any format and any language) that randomly assigned adults (aged ≥16 years) admitted to a hospital due to COVID-19 to receive either a JAK inhibitor (any type) or no JAK inhibitor (ie, received site-specific standard of care with or without placebo), and requested individual participant data (IPD) from the original trial teams. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at day 28 after random assignment. We used two-stage meta-analyses adjusting for age and respiratory support, and pooled estimates using random-effects models. The assessment of individual-level effect modifiers was based solely on within-trial information and continuous modifiers were investigated as both linear and non-linear interactions. We used the Instrument for Assessing the Credibility of Effect Modification Analyses to appraise the subgroup analyses and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to adjudicate the certainty of evidence. Grade 3 or 4 adverse events and serious adverse events by day 28, and adverse events of special interest within 28 days, were assessed among secondary outcomes. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023431817).

FINDINGS: We identified 16 eligible trials. IPD were obtained from 12 trials, corresponding to 12 902 adults admitted to hospital between May, 2020, and March, 2022. These trials represented 12 902 [96·1%] of 13 423 participants from all eligible trials worldwide. Seven trials evaluated baricitinib, three evaluated tofacitinib, and two evaluated ruxolitinib. Overall, 755 (11·7%) of 6465 participants in the JAK inhibitor group died by day 28 compared with 805 (13·2%) of 6108 participants in the no JAK inhibitor group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0·67 [95% CI 0·55-0·82]; high-certainty evidence; 39 fewer per 1000 [95% CI 55 fewer to 21 fewer]). JAK inhibitors decreased the need for new mechanical ventilation or other respiratory support and allowed for faster discharge from hospital by about 1 day. We observed fewer grade 3 and 4 adverse events and serious adverse events in the JAK inhibitor group (14 fewer per 1000 [95% CI 24 fewer to 4 fewer]; moderate-certainty evidence). The rates of adverse events of special interest were similar across both groups. No credible subgroup effect on mortality at day 28 was found for ventilation status, type of JAK inhibitor, presence of comorbidities, timing of treatment initiation after symptom onset, C-reactive protein concentration, or concomitant use of dexamethasone or tocilizumab. We found a moderately credible effect modification by age, with younger participants showing larger relative treatment effects than older participants, but similar absolute treatment effects due to higher baseline risk for older participants.

INTERPRETATION: This IPDMA of RCTs in adults admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 found that JAK inhibitors reduced mortality across all levels of respiratory support, independent of dexamethasone or tocilizumab, and probably decreased serious and severe adverse events compared with no JAK inhibitors.

FUNDING: This project has received funding from the EU's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement number 101015736.},
}

Humans
*Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/mortality
Hospitalization
SARS-CoV-2
Pyrimidines/therapeutic use
Adult
Purines/therapeutic use
Sulfonamides/therapeutic use
Nitriles
Azetidines/therapeutic use
Piperidines/therapeutic use
Pyrazoles/therapeutic use
Male
Female
Middle Aged

@article {pmid40432048,
year = {2025},
author = {Nembot Fogang, BA and Debrah, LB and Owusu, M and Agyei, G and Meyer, J and Gmanyami, JM and Ritter, M and Arndts, K and Adu Mensah, D and Adjobimey, T and Hörauf, A and Debrah, AY},
title = {Helminth Coinfections Modulate Disease Dynamics and Vaccination Success in the Era of Emerging Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13050436},
pmid = {40432048},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {81204851//Federal Ministry of Education and Research/ ; 2021//German West African Center for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention (GWAC)/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Helminth infections, particularly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, have been extensively studied for their effects on human health. With the emergence of new infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola, their impact on disease outcomes become more apparent. While individual studies have explored the impact of helminth co-infections on disease severity and vaccine efficacy, the findings are often inconsistent and context-dependent. Furthermore, the long-term effects of helminth-mediated immunosuppression on vaccine efficacy and its broader implications for co-infections in endemic regions remain not fully understood. Methods: This systematic review conducted in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines synthesizes the current evidence, identifies patterns, and highlights areas needing further research, offering a cohesive understanding of the topic. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library were searched to include studies published from 2003 to February 2025. Results: Co-infection reveals a dual role of helminths in modulating immune responses, with both beneficial and detrimental interactions reported across studies. It may confer benefits against respiratory viral infections by muting hyper-inflammation associated with the severity of conditions like COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV. However, they can exacerbate disease outcomes in most bacteria and blood-borne viral conditions by impairing immune functions, such as neutrophil recruitment and antibody response, leading to more severe infections and higher viral loads. The stage of helminth infection also appears critical, with early-stage infections sometimes offering protection, while late-stage infections may worsen disease outcomes. Helminth infection can also negatively impact vaccine efficacy by suppressing B cell activity, reducing antibody levels, and decreasing vaccine effectiveness against infectious diseases. This immunosuppressive effect may persist after deworming, complicating efforts to restore vaccine efficacy. Maternal helminth infections also significantly influence neonatal immunity, affecting newborn vaccine responses. Conclusions: There is a need for targeted interventions and further research in helminth-endemic regions to mitigate the adverse effects on vaccine efficacy and improve public health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40431734,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, DH and Kim, JH and Jeon, MT and Kim, KS and Kim, DG and Choi, IS},
title = {The Role of TDP-43 in SARS-CoV-2-Related Neurodegenerative Changes.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050724},
pmid = {40431734},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {25-BR-02-03//Korea Brain Research Institute/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism/virology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/virology/pathology/etiology ; Virus Replication ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been linked to long-term neurological effects with multifaceted complications of neurodegenerative diseases. Several studies have found that pathological changes in transactive response DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) are involved in these cases. This review explores the causal interactions between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and TDP-43 from multiple perspectives. Some viral proteins of SARS-CoV-2 have been shown to induce pathological changes in TDP-43 through its cleavage, aggregation, and mislocalization. SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause liquid-liquid phase separation and stress granule formation, which accelerate the condensation of TDP-43, resulting in host RNA metabolism disruption. TDP-43 has been proposed to interact with SARS-CoV-2 RNA, though its role in viral replication remains to be fully elucidated. This interaction potentially facilitates viral replication, while viral-induced oxidative stress and protease activity accelerate TDP-43 pathology. Evidence from both clinical and experimental studies indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to long-term neurological sequelae, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-like and frontotemporal dementia-like features, as well as increased phosphorylated TDP-43 deposition in the central nervous system. Biomarker studies further support the link between TDP-43 dysregulation and neurological complications of long-term effects of COVID-19 (long COVID). In this review, we presented a novel integrative framework of TDP-43 pathology, bridging a gap between SARS-CoV-2 infection and mechanisms of neurodegeneration. These findings underscore the need for further research to clarify the TDP-43-related neurodegeneration underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection and to develop therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating long-term neurological effects in patients with long COVID.},
}

Humans
*DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism/virology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/virology/pathology/etiology
Virus Replication
Animals

@article {pmid40431733,
year = {2025},
author = {Dinata, R and Baindara, P and Mandal, SM},
title = {Evolution of Antiviral Drug Resistance in SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050722},
pmid = {40431733},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Drug Repositioning ; Mutation ; Evolution, Molecular ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact and continues to alarm the entire world due to the rapid emergence of new variants, even after mass vaccinations. There is still an urgent need for new antivirals or strategies to combat the SARS-CoV-2 infections; however, we have success stories with nirmatrelvir. Drug repurposing and drug discovery may lead to a successful SARS-CoV-2 antiviral; however, rapid drug use may cause unexpected mutations and antiviral drug resistance. Conversely, novel variants of the SARS-CoV-2 can diminish the neutralizing efficacy of vaccines, thereby enhancing viral fitness and increasing the likelihood of drug resistance emergence. Additionally, the disposal of antivirals in wastewater also contributes to drug resistance. Overall, the present review summarizes the strategies and mechanisms involved in the development of drug resistance in SARS-CoV-2. Understanding the mechanism of antiviral resistance is crucial to mitigate the significant healthcare threat and to develop effective therapeutics against drug resistance.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Drug Repositioning
Mutation
Evolution, Molecular

@article {pmid40431702,
year = {2025},
author = {Mahdi, M and Kiarie, IW and Mótyán, JA and Hoffka, G and Al-Muffti, AS and Tóth, A and Tőzsér, J},
title = {Receptor Binding for the Entry Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2: Insights from the Original Strain and Emerging Variants.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050691},
pmid = {40431702},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {TKP2021-EGA-20//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH K132623//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; POST-COVID2021-33//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH Advanced Grant 150532//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; BO/00110/23/5//János Bolyai Research Scholarship of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences/ ; EKÖP-24-4-I-DE-435//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/physiology ; *Virus Internalization ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics ; *COVID-19/virology/transmission/metabolism ; *Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Mutation ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism ; Protein Binding ; },
abstract = {Since its emergence in late 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has continuously evolved, giving rise to multiple variants that have significantly altered the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic. These variants have resulted in multiple waves of the pandemic, exhibiting characteristic mutations in the spike (S) protein that may have affected receptor interaction, tissue tropism, and cell entry mechanisms. While the virus was shown to primarily utilize the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and host proteases such as transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) for entry into host cells, alterations in the S protein have resulted in changes to receptor binding affinity and use of alternative receptors, potentially expanding the virus's ability to infect different cell types or tissues, contributing to shifts in clinical presentation. These changes have been linked to variations in disease severity, the emergence of new clinical manifestations, and altered transmission dynamics. In this paper, we overview the evolving receptor utilization strategies of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on how mutations in the S protein may have influenced viral entry mechanisms and clinical outcomes across the ongoing pandemic waves.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/physiology
*Virus Internalization
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics
*COVID-19/virology/transmission/metabolism
*Receptors, Virus/metabolism
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Mutation
Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism
Protein Binding

@article {pmid40431631,
year = {2025},
author = {de Melo, BP and da Silva, JAM and Rodrigues, MA and Palmeira, JDF and Amato, AA and Argañaraz, GA and Argañaraz, ER},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Long COVID-Part 2: Understanding the Impact of Spike Protein and Cellular Receptor Interactions on the Pathophysiology of Long COVID Syndrome.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050619},
pmid = {40431631},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/physiopathology/complications/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/genetics/physiology ; *Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; Protein Binding ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection has had a significant impact on global health through both acute illness, referred to as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and chronic conditions (long COVID or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, PASC). Despite substantial advancements in preventing severe COVID-19 cases through vaccination, the rise in the prevalence of long COVID syndrome and a notable degree of genomic mutation, primarily in the S protein, underscores the necessity for a deeper understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms related to the S protein of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, the latest part of this series, we investigate the potential pathophysiological molecular mechanisms triggered by the interaction between the spike protein and cellular receptors. Therefore, this review aims to provide a differential and focused view on the mechanisms potentially activated by the binding of the spike protein to canonical and non-canonical receptors for SARS-CoV-2, together with their possible interactions and effects on the pathogenesis of long COVID.},
}

*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics
Humans
*COVID-19/virology/physiopathology/complications/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/genetics/physiology
*Receptors, Virus/metabolism
Protein Binding
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40431629,
year = {2025},
author = {de Melo, BP and da Silva, JAM and Rodrigues, MA and Palmeira, JDF and Saldanha-Araujo, F and Argañaraz, GA and Argañaraz, ER},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Long COVID-Part 1: Impact of Spike Protein in Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Long COVID Syndrome.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17050617},
pmid = {40431629},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; *COVID-19/complications/virology/physiopathology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection has resulted in more than 700 million cases and nearly 7 million deaths worldwide. Although vaccination efforts have effectively reduced mortality and transmission rates, a significant proportion of recovered patients-up to 40%-develop long COVID syndrome (LC) or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 infection (PASC). LC is characterized by the persistence or emergence of new symptoms following initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, affecting the cardiovascular, neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and immune systems. Despite the broad range of clinical symptoms that have been described, the risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms behind LC remain unclear. This review, the first of a two-part series, is distinguished by the discussion of the role of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in the primary mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of LC.},
}

Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
*COVID-19/complications/virology/physiopathology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40431528,
year = {2025},
author = {Lunge, VR and Kipper, D and Streck, AF and Fonseca, ASK and Ikuta, N},
title = {Emergence and Dissemination of the Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus Lineages in Poultry Farms in South America.},
journal = {Veterinary sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vetsci12050435},
pmid = {40431528},
issn = {2306-7381},
support = {350153/2025-6//CNPq/ ; 303647/2023-0//CNPq/ ; },
abstract = {Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a chicken pathogen present in commercial poultry farms worldwide. It is classified within the species Avian coronavirus, genus Gammacoronavirus. As with other members of the family Coronaviridae, it has a single positive-sense RNA genome with 27.6 Kb and presents viral particles with a typical crown-like aspect due to the spike (S) transmembrane glycoprotein. IBV has a remarkable capacity for genetic recombination and mutation, resulting in many genotypes and antigenic variants over evolutionary time. Currently, it is classified into nine genetic types (GI to GIX) and 41 (1 to 41) lineages disseminated worldwide. In South America, IBV was first identified in early commercial poultry production ventures in Brazil in the 1950s. Since then, this virus has been frequently detected in commercial South American poultry farms, being classified into serotypes in the first decades and genotypes more recently. IBVs of the Massachusetts (Mass) serotype were initially detected and vaccine strains of this serotype were used extensively on commercial poultry farms. Other serotypes/genotypes were identified later, with almost all of them classified in the current genetic type I (GI). In addition, five GI lineages (GI-1, -11, -13, -16, and -23) have been associated with the main infectious bronchitis outbreaks in the continent, with some variations in the occurrence according to the countries and the period of time. Molecular epidemiological surveillance of IBV genetic types and lineages is necessary to anticipate potential outbreaks, revealing patterns of viral evolution and dissemination, as well as to guide the selection of appropriate vaccine strains and immunization programs.},
}

@article {pmid40431497,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubini, A and Di Via, R and Pastore, VP and Del Signore, F and Rosto, M and De Bonis, A and Odone, F and Vignoli, M},
title = {Artificial Intelligence in Chest Radiography-A Comparative Review of Human and Veterinary Medicine.},
journal = {Veterinary sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vetsci12050404},
pmid = {40431497},
issn = {2306-7381},
abstract = {The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into chest radiography (CXR) has greatly impacted both human and veterinary medicine, enhancing diagnostic speed, accuracy, and efficiency. In human medicine, AI has been extensively studied, improving the identification of thoracic abnormalities, diagnostic precision in emergencies, and the classification of complex conditions such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Deep learning-based models assist radiologists by detecting patterns, generating probability maps, and predicting outcomes like heart failure. However, AI is still supplementary to clinical expertise due to challenges such as data limitations, algorithmic biases, and the need for extensive validation. Ethical concerns and regulatory constraints also hinder full implementation. In veterinary medicine, AI is still in its early stages and is rarely used; however, it has the potential to become a valuable tool for supporting radiologists in the future. However, challenges include smaller datasets, breed variability, and limited research. Addressing these through focused research on species with less phenotypic variability (like cats) and cross-sector collaborations could advance AI in veterinary medicine. Both fields demonstrate AI's potential to enhance diagnostics but emphasize the ongoing need for human expertise in clinical decision making. Differences in anatomy structure between the two fields must be considered for effective AI adaptation.},
}

@article {pmid40431340,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhu, W and Wang, D and Li, P and Deng, H and Deng, Z},
title = {Advances in Wastewater-Based Epidemiology for Pandemic Surveillance: Methodological Frameworks and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13051169},
pmid = {40431340},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {8252030//Beijing Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a transformative approach for community-level health monitoring, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review critically examines the methodological framework of WBE systems through the following three core components: (1) sampling strategies that address spatial-temporal variability in wastewater systems, (2) comparative performance of different platforms in pathogen detection, and (3) predictive modeling integrating machine learning approaches. We systematically analyze how these components collectively overcome the limitations of conventional surveillance methods through early outbreak detection, asymptomatic case identification, and population-level trend monitoring. While highlighting technical breakthroughs in viral concentration methods and variant tracking through sequencing, the review also identifies persistent challenges, including data standardization, cost-effectiveness concerns in resource-limited settings, and ethical considerations in public health surveillance. Drawing insights from global implementation cases, we propose recommendations for optimizing each operational phase and discuss emerging applications beyond pandemic response. This review highlights WBE as an indispensable tool for modern public health, whose methodological refinements and cross-disciplinary integration are critical for transforming pandemic surveillance from reactive containment to proactive population health management.},
}

@article {pmid40431202,
year = {2025},
author = {Rampelotto, PH and Taufer, CR and da Silva, J},
title = {The Role of Beneficial Microbiota in COVID-19: Insights from Key Bacterial Genera.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13051029},
pmid = {40431202},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {88887.513461/2020-00//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 88887.798411/2022-00//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing disease severity and progression. Emerging research indicates that the human microbiota, particularly beneficial bacteria, significantly impacts immune responses and health outcomes in COVID-19 patients. While existing studies provide general insights into the relationship between the microbiota and probiotics with COVID-19, they often lack a detailed exploration of how specific bacterial taxa might be used as adjunctive treatments. This review aims to address this gap by focusing on ten key genera of beneficial bacteria, discussing their roles in COVID-19 and evaluating their potential as probiotics for prevention and treatment. The review covers the impact of these microbes on human health, their population alterations in COVID-19 patients, and their interactions with other viral infections. Among these microbes, several exhibit distinct patterns of abundance in COVID-19 patients, influencing disease outcomes and highlighting their potential roles in infection dynamics. In COVID-19 patients, populations of Akkermansia, Ruminococcus, and Roseburia are consistently reduced, while those of Faecalibacterium show a significant decline in more severe cases. Bacteroides presents varying effects depending on the species involved. Alterations in the abundance of Blautia and Lachnospiraceae are associated with increased inflammation and disease severity. Likewise, the depletion of Lachnospira and Coprococcus populations, both linked to anti-inflammatory effects, may exacerbate symptom severity. Oscillospira, though less studied, is connected to overall health and could have implications for viral infections. This review synthesizes the current understanding of these beneficial microbes to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiota to alleviate the impact of COVID-19 and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies involving microbiota modulation.},
}

@article {pmid40430901,
year = {2025},
author = {Spagnolo, F and Brugiapaglia, S and Perin, M and Intonti, S and Curcio, C},
title = {Anti-Cancer Drugs: Trends and Insights from PubMed Records.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics17050610},
pmid = {40430901},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {2022TRSH52//Progetti di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale-PRIN/ ; },
abstract = {Background: In recent years, there has been an exponential growth in global anti-cancer drug research, prompting the necessity for comprehensive analyses of publication output and thematic shifts. Methods: This study utilized a comprehensive set of PubMed records from 1962 to 2024 and examined growth patterns, content classification, and co-occurrence of key pharmacological and molecular terms. Results: Our results highlight an exponential rise in publications, with an annual compound growth rate of over 14%, influenced by advancements in digital knowledge sharing and novel therapeutic breakthroughs. A pronounced surge occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting a sustained shift in research dynamics. The content analyses revealed a strong emphasis on classical chemotherapeutic agents-often studied in combination with targeted therapies or immunotherapies-and a growing focus on immune checkpoint inhibitors and vaccine platforms. Furthermore, co-occurrence networks indicated robust links between chemotherapy and supportive care, as well as emerging synergies between immuno-oncology, precision medicine approaches. Conclusions: Our study suggests that while novel modalities are reshaping treatment paradigms, chemotherapy remains central, underscoring the value of integrative regimens. This trend toward personalized, combination-based strategies indicates a transformative era in oncology research, where multidimensional data assessment is instrumental in guiding future therapeutic innovations.},
}

@article {pmid40430786,
year = {2025},
author = {Valencia-Ledezma, OE and Reyes-Montes, MDR and Acosta-Altamirano, G and Frías-De-León, MG and García-Salazar, E and Duarte-Escalante, E and Santiago-Abundio, J and González-Miguel, Z and García-Hernández, ML and Martínez-Quezada, R and Torres-Páez, OU and Galindo-Oseguera, E and Meza-Meneses, P and Santiago-González, N},
title = {Invasive Candidiasis Coinfection in Patients with Severe COVID-19 Disease: Scoping Review.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14050466},
pmid = {40430786},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/microbiology ; *Coinfection/epidemiology/microbiology ; *Candidiasis, Invasive/epidemiology/microbiology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; Candida/isolation & purification/classification ; },
abstract = {Coinfection rates of candidiasis in patients affected by COVID-19 had a significantly increase during the sanitary contingency. The objective of this scoping review is to analyze the available scientific evidence around the coinfection of invasive candidiasis in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 disease. Online databases such as PubMed, EBSCO, SciFinder, Scopus, and SciELO were used to analyze the different scientific studies published from January 2020 to December 2022, selecting 48 publications that reported comorbidity between invasive candidiasis and COVID-19 as a study variable. Based on the PRISMA-ScR extension for scoping reviews, we identified more than half of the publications (57%) as observational, descriptive, and analytic studies, while 43% were systematic reviews. Overall, up to 169,468 adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit were examined. Coinfection was due mainly to Candida albicans (75%), but some more species were reported such as Meyerozyma parapsilosis (formerly Candida parapsilosis); Meyerozyma guilliermondii (formerly Candida guilliermondii); Nakaseomyces glabratus (formerly Candida glabrata); Candida tropicalis; Candida dubliniensis; Clavispora lusitaniae (formerly Candida lusitaniae); and Pichia kudriavzevii (formerly Candida krusei). We concluded that patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 had a higher incidence of fungal coinfections, thus increasing the mortality rate, disease severity, and length of hospital stay in the intensive care unit.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/microbiology
*Coinfection/epidemiology/microbiology
*Candidiasis, Invasive/epidemiology/microbiology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Intensive Care Units
Candida/isolation & purification/classification

@article {pmid40430385,
year = {2025},
author = {Ortega, Á and Duran, P and Garrido, B and Manzano, A and Navarro, C and Silva, A and Rojas, M and De Sanctis, JB and Radzioch, D and Rivera-Porras, D and Paredes, CS and Bermúdez, V},
title = {Specialized Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators in Pulmonary Diseases: Molecular and Therapeutic Implications.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30102212},
pmid = {40430385},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; COVID-19/metabolism ; *Lung Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism ; Docosahexaenoic Acids/therapeutic use/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Inflammatory lung diseases (ILDs) represent a global public health crisis characterized by escalating prevalence, significant morbidity, and substantial mortality. In response to the complex immunopathogenic mechanisms driving these conditions, novel pharmacological strategies targeting resolution pathways have emerged throughout the discovery of specialized pro-resolving lipid mediator (SPM; resolvins, maresins, and protectins) dysregulation across the ILD spectra, positioning these endogenous molecules as promising therapeutic candidates for modulating maladaptive inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Over the past decade, this paradigm has catalyzed extensive translational research into SPM-based interventions as precision therapeutics for respiratory inflammation. In asthma, they reduce mucus hypersecretion, bronchial hyperreactivity, and airway inflammation, with prenatal SPM exposure potentially lowering offspring disease risk. In COPD, SPMs attenuate amyloid A-driven inflammation, normalizing cytokine/chemokine imbalances and oxidative stress and mitigating COVID-19-associated cytokine storm, enhancing survival. This review synthesizes SPMs' pharmacotherapeutic mechanisms in ILDs and evaluates current preclinical and clinical evidence.},
}

Humans
Animals
COVID-19/metabolism
*Lung Diseases/drug therapy/metabolism
Docosahexaenoic Acids/therapeutic use/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy/metabolism

@article {pmid40430296,
year = {2025},
author = {Kubryń, N and Fijałkowski, Ł and Nowaczyk, J and Jamil, A and Nowaczyk, A},
title = {PROTAC Technology as a New Tool for Modern Pharmacotherapy.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30102123},
pmid = {40430296},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; Neoplasms/drug therapy/metabolism ; *Proteolysis/drug effects ; Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Design ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {The publication focuses on the innovative applications of PROTAC (proteolysis-targeting chimera) technology in modern pharmacotherapy, with particular emphasis on cancer treatment. PROTACs represent an advanced therapeutic strategy that enables selective protein degradation, opening new possibilities in drug design. This technology shows potential in the treatment of cancers, viral infections (such as HIV and COVID-19), and chronic diseases including atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, atopic dermatitis, and Huntington's disease. Promising results from clinical studies on the compound ARV-471 confirm the effectiveness of this approach. New types of PROTACs, like TF-PROTAC and PhosphoTAC, are designed to enhance the effectiveness, stability, and absorption of treatment drugs. The conclusions of the review highlight the broad therapeutic potential of PROTACs in various diseases and their relevance for the future of therapies, particularly in oncology.},
}

Humans
Neoplasms/drug therapy/metabolism
*Proteolysis/drug effects
Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Design
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40430232,
year = {2025},
author = {Ciortea, DA and Matei, MN and Debita, M and Lupu, A and Mătăsaru, M and Verga Răuță, GI and Fotea, S},
title = {Cardiac Manifestations and Emerging Biomarkers in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050805},
pmid = {40430232},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cardiac involvement is a key prognostic factor in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but serious inflammatory condition that typically occurs 2-6 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection and is characterized by fever, systemic inflammation, and multiorgan involvement. Biomarkers may aid in early detection, severity assessment, and treatment stratification.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic utility of established and emerging serum biomarkers in MIS-C, with an emphasis on cardiac dysfunction and disease severity.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 2025. Eligible studies included pediatric MIS-C cases with reported serum biomarkers. Meta-analyses were performed for NT-proBNP and troponin using random-effects models. Descriptive profiling was applied to emerging biomarkers. Subgroup comparisons were explored between severe and moderate MIS-C. Quality assessment followed the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and publication bias was assessed via funnel plots and Egger's test.

RESULTS: A total of 67 studies were included, comprising >4000 pediatric MIS-C cases. NT-proBNP and troponin were consistently elevated (pooled means: 9697 pg/mL and 0.384 ng/mL, respectively), with a low risk of publication bias. Emerging biomarkers such as CXCL9, angiopoietin-2, and vitamin D revealed high inter-study variability but potential prognostic value. Subgroup analyses for selected studies (n = 5) suggested higher biomarker levels in severe MIS-C.

CONCLUSIONS: NT-proBNP and troponin are robust indicators of cardiac injury in MIS-C. Emerging biomarkers show promise but require validation. Future studies should include copeptin and adopt standardized reporting to refine biomarker-guided management.},
}

@article {pmid40430210,
year = {2025},
author = {Gherman, A and Andrei, D and Popoiu, CM and Stoicescu, ER and Levai, MC and Stoian, II and Bloancă, V},
title = {Multidisciplinary Telemedicine in Healthcare During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050783},
pmid = {40430210},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), transforming healthcare delivery through telemedicine. This review examines the integration of telemedicine into multidisciplinary care across various medical specialties, highlighting its benefits and challenges. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords related to telemedicine and MDTs. Inclusion criteria focused on studies discussing telemedicine implementation in multidisciplinary care, as well as its effectiveness and impact on patient outcomes, while non-English studies, single-case reports, and articles lacking explicit discussions on MDT integration were excluded. Data extraction covered telemedicine platforms, specialties involved, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Our findings suggest that virtual MDTs enhance efficiency, accessibility, and patient satisfaction, particularly in remote and underserved areas. However, challenges, such as technological barriers, disparities in digital access, and maintaining effective team communication, persist. Despite these limitations, telemedicine has demonstrated significant potential in improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment coordination. Future efforts should focus on optimizing infrastructure, digital training for healthcare providers, and regulatory frameworks to guarantee long-term sustainability.},
}

@article {pmid40430160,
year = {2025},
author = {Caliman-Sturdza, OA and Gheorghita, RE and Soldanescu, I},
title = {Vitamin D and COVID-19: Clinical Evidence and Immunological Insights.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050733},
pmid = {40430160},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Vitamin D has emerged as a potential modulator of immune responses, sparking interest in its role in COVID-19 susceptibility and clinical outcomes. This review synthesizes current clinical evidence and explores immunological insights into the relationship between vitamin D levels and COVID-19 infection severity. Epidemiological studies indicate an inverse correlation between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Immunologically, vitamin D exerts regulatory effects on both innate and adaptive immunity, enhancing antimicrobial defense mechanisms, reducing excessive inflammatory responses, and potentially mitigating cytokine storm events observed in severe COVID-19 cases. Despite promising observational data, clinical trials evaluating vitamin D supplementation have shown mixed results, underscoring the need for standardized dosing regimens and patient stratification. Future research should focus on large-scale randomized controlled trials to conclusively determine the therapeutic potential and optimal supplementation strategies for vitamin D in managing COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40430154,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, TS and Chao, JY and Chang, HH and Lin, WR and Lin, WH},
title = {COVID-19 and Diabetes: Persistent Cardiovascular and Renal Risks in the Post-Pandemic Landscape.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050726},
pmid = {40430154},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), disproportionately affects individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) by exacerbating cardiovascular and renal complications. This increased risk is mediated through immune dysfunction, chronic inflammation, hyperglycemia, dysregulation of renin-angiotensin system dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, and hypercoagulability. Epidemiological studies indicate a two-fold increased risk of stroke and end-stage renal disease in SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals with diabetes, along with a 60% higher risk of cardiovascular disease. While antidiabetic therapies like sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists show potential protective effects, insulin use in hospitalized patients is linked to higher mortality. Vaccination is crucial in reducing severe COVID-19 outcomes and mitigating post-infection complications, including new-onset diabetes. While concerns exist regarding vaccine-associated nephropathy and thromboembolic events, these risks are thought to be minimal compared to the benefits. As COVID-19 shifts to an endemic phase, the long-term renal and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with DM remain uncertain, highlighting the urgent need for continued research and targeted management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40430138,
year = {2025},
author = {Modiga, A and Butiurca, VO and Boeriu, CM and Truta, TS and Turucz, E and Halațiu, VB and Rodean, IP and Russu, PC and Gherghinescu, MC and Molnar, C},
title = {Pathophysiological Mechanisms Linking COVID-19 and Acute Surgical Abdomen: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15050707},
pmid = {40430138},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Acute surgical abdomen is characterized by intense, sudden abdominal pain due to intra-abdominal conditions requiring prompt surgical intervention. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to various complications related to the disease's complex pathophysiological mechanisms, hence the hypothesis of COVID-19-induced acute abdominal surgical pathologies. The connection between acute surgical abdomen and COVID-19 involves two primary mechanisms. First, there is the presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in multiple abdominal organs. This facilitates the cytokine storm through direct viral injury and inflammation. Second, the hypercoagulable state induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) increases the thrombotic risk within abdominal vessels, which can subsequently lead to ischemia. ACE2 receptors are notably expressed in the gastric, duodenal, and rectal epithelium, with SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA and nucleocapsid proteins detected in these tissues. The inflammatory response results in significant endothelial damage, activating coagulation pathways that cause monocellular infiltration, lymphocytic inflammation, and uncontrolled coagulation. These findings highlight the need for further research to clarify how COVID-19 leads to acute abdominal pathologies. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for improving clinical management and patient outcomes during future health crises and in the aftermath of the pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40430032,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, PG and Lee, SY and Youn, H and Hong, KJ},
title = {Promising Vaccine Formulations for Emerging Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26104893},
pmid = {40430032},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {NRF-2020R1A2C2011695//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; 22213MFDS421//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; RS-2023-00217026//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; RS-2024-00331833//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; HI22C0009//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; HV22C0004//Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are one of the greatest threats to human health today, thus requiring an urgent response. Vaccines are one of the most effective means of preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and their usefulness in responding to EIDs has been clearly proven through the process of overcoming the global COVID-19 pandemic. As the characteristics of various vaccine formulations differ, it is necessary to apply the most appropriate one according to the EID response strategy. In this review, we first consider which vaccine formulation is the most suitable for EID vaccines by comparing the pros and cons of different vaccine formulations, and then we discuss the utility of mRNA vaccine formulations, which are considered the most promising for EID vaccines.},
}

Humans
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40428732,
year = {2025},
author = {Hărșan, ST and Sin, AI},
title = {The Involvement and Manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 Virus in Cardiovascular Pathology.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medicina61050773},
pmid = {40428732},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/virology/physiopathology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Although the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, the emergence of the post-COVID-19 condition presents a new and complex public health challenge, characterized by persistent, multisystem symptoms that can endure for weeks or months after the initial infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, significantly affecting survivors' quality of life. Among the most concerning sequelae are cardiovascular complications, which encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, including arrhythmias, myocardial damage, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. This narrative review explores the burden of the SARS-CoV-2 infection on cardiovascular health by reviewing the latest and most relevant findings in the literature and highlighting different aspects of COVID-19's cardiovascular involvement. This review investigates the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cardiovascular involvement in the post-COVID-19 condition, with a focus on direct viral invasion via ACE2 receptors, immune-mediated cardiovascular injury, cytokine storm, systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial injury. The interplay between pre-existing cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation, and COVID-19 is also explored, revealing that individuals with such conditions are at heightened risk for both severe acute illness and long-term complications. Long-term immune activation and the persistence of viral antigens are increasingly recognized as contributors to ongoing cardiovascular damage, even in individuals with mild or asymptomatic initial infections. As the healthcare system continues to adapt to the long-term consequences of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a deeper understanding of these cardiovascular manifestations is essential. This knowledge will inform the development of targeted strategies for prevention, clinical management, and rehabilitation of affected patients. Furthermore, the insights gained from the intersection of COVID-19 and cardiovascular health will be instrumental in shaping responses to future viral epidemics, highlighting the necessity for multidisciplinary approaches to patient care and public health preparedness.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Cardiovascular Diseases/virology/physiopathology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40428193,
year = {2025},
author = {Hsu, NC and Lin, YF and Tsai, HB and Liao, C and Hsu, CH},
title = {Ten Questions on Using Lung Ultrasonography to Diagnose and Manage Pneumonia in Hospital-at-Home Model: Part II-Confounders and Mimickers.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diagnostics15101200},
pmid = {40428193},
issn = {2075-4418},
abstract = {The hospital-at-home (HaH) model offers hospital-level care within patients' homes and has proven effective for managing conditions such as pneumonia. The point-of-care ultrasonography (PoCUS) is a key diagnostic tool in this model, especially when traditional imaging modalities are unavailable. This review explores how PoCUS can be optimized to manage pneumonia in HaH settings, focusing on its diagnostic accuracy in patients with comorbidities, differentiation from mimickers, and role in assessing disease severity. Pulmonary comorbidities, such as heart failure and interstitial lung disease (ILD), can complicate lung ultrasound (LUS) interpretation. In heart failure, combining lung, cardiac, and venous assessments (e.g., IVC collapsibility, VExUS score) improves diagnostic clarity. In ILD, distinguishing chronic changes from acute infections requires attention to B-line patterns and pleural abnormalities. PoCUS must differentiate pneumonia from conditions such as atelectasis, lung contusion, cryptogenic organizing pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and neoplastic lesions-many of which present with similar sonographic features. Serial LUS scoring provides useful information on pneumonia severity and disease progression. Studies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, show correlations between worsening LUS scores and poor outcomes, including increased ventilator dependency and mortality. Furthermore, LUS scores correlate with inflammatory markers and gas exchange metrics, supporting their prognostic value. In conclusion, PoCUS in HaH care requires clinicians to integrate multi-organ ultrasound findings, clinical context, and serial monitoring to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Mastery of LUS interpretation in complex scenarios is crucial to delivering personalized, high-quality care in the home setting.},
}

@article {pmid40428133,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheng, Y and Cheng, R and Xu, T and Tan, X and Bai, Y},
title = {Machine Learning Techniques Applied to COVID-19 Prediction: A Systematic Literature Review.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering12050514},
pmid = {40428133},
issn = {2306-5354},
support = {202103021224195//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 202103021223189//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 202103021224212//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 20210302123019//Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province, China/ ; 61774137//National Science Foundation of China, China/ ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 was one of the most serious global public health emergencies in recent years, and its extremely fast spreading speed had a profound negative impact on society. A comprehensive analysis and prediction of COVID-19 could lay a theoretical foundation for monitoring and early warning systems. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, there has been an influx of research on predictive modelling, with artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, particularly machine learning (ML) methods, becoming the dominant research direction due to their superior capability in processing multidimensional datasets and capturing complex nonlinear transmission patterns. We systematically reviewed COVID-19 ML prediction models developed under the background of the epidemic using the PRISMA method. We used the selected keywords to screen the relevant literature of COVID-19 prediction using ML technology from 2020 to 2023 in the Web of Science, Springer and Elsevier databases. Based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 136 eligible studies were ultimately selected from 5731 preliminarily screened publications, and the datasets, data preprocessing, ML models, and evaluation metrics used in these studies were assessed. By establishing a multi-level classification framework that included traditional statistical models (such as ARIMA), ML models (such as SVM), deep learning (DL) models (such as CNN, LSTM), ensemble learning methods (such as AdaBoost), and hybrid models (such as the fusion architecture of intelligent optimization algorithms and neural networks), it revealed that the hybrid modelling strategy effectively improved the prediction accuracy of the model through feature combination optimization and model cascade integration. In addition, we compared the performance of ML models with other models in the COVID-19 prediction task. The results showed that the propagation of COVID-19 is affected by multiple factors, including meteorological and socio-economic conditions. Compared to traditional methods, ML methods demonstrated significant advantages in COVID-19 prediction, especially hybrid modelling strategies, which showed great potential in optimizing accuracy. However, these techniques face challenges and limitations despite their strong performance. By reviewing existing research on COVID-19 prediction, this study provided systematic theoretical support for AI applications in infectious disease prediction and promoted technological innovation in public health.},
}

@article {pmid40428099,
year = {2025},
author = {Jadhav, K and Abhang, A and Kole, EB and Gadade, D and Dusane, A and Iyer, A and Sharma, A and Rout, SK and Gholap, AD and Naik, J and Verma, RK and Rojekar, S},
title = {Peptide-Drug Conjugates as Next-Generation Therapeutics: Exploring the Potential and Clinical Progress.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering12050481},
pmid = {40428099},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {Peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) have emerged as a next-generation therapeutic platform, combining the target specificity of peptides with the pharmacological potency of small-molecule drugs. As an evolution beyond antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), PDCs offer distinct advantages, including enhanced cellular permeability, improved drug selectivity, and versatile design flexibility. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the fundamental components of PDCs, including homing peptide selection, linker engineering, and payload optimization, alongside strategies to address their inherent challenges, such as stability, bioactivity, and clinical translation barriers. Therapeutic applications of PDCs span oncology, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and emerging areas like COVID-19, with several conjugates advancing in clinical trials and achieving regulatory milestones. Innovations, including bicyclic peptides, supramolecular architectures, and novel linker technologies, are explored as promising avenues to enhance PDC design. Additionally, this review examines the clinical trajectory of PDCs, emphasizing their therapeutic potential and highlighting ongoing trials that exemplify their efficacy. By addressing limitations and leveraging emerging advancements, PDCs hold immense promise as targeted therapeutics capable of addressing complex disease states and driving progress in precision medicine.},
}

@article {pmid40427985,
year = {2025},
author = {Bernuzzi, C and Piccardo, MA and Guglielmetti, C},
title = {Mapping Research Trends on the Implications of Telemedicine for Healthcare Professionals: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13101149},
pmid = {40427985},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {//MUSA-Multilayered Urban Sustainability Action-project, funded by the European Un-ion-NextGenerationEU, under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP)/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The digital transformation in healthcare is reshaping care delivery by enhancing patient care and flexibility. However, it also poses potential challenges to healthcare professionals' wellbeing and work practices. To date, research on the implications of telemedicine for healthcare professionals remains limited and inconclusive. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of this research field using a quantitative, bibliometric approach. Methods: Articles were systematically selected from Web of Science and Scopus databases, focusing on empirical, peer-reviewed articles written in English, involving healthcare professionals and focusing on telemedicine. Results: The dataset consists of 160 papers. The analysis reveals a significant increase in publications starting from 2012, with a notable surge in 2020, reflecting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The University of New Mexico and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, both in the United States, were identified as the institutions with the highest number of published articles. Most studies were published in clinical-focused journals (e.g., Journal of Medical Internet Research and BMC Health Services Research), emphasizing the field's dominant orientation. The intellectual structure reveals that wellbeing, work practices, and communications between patients and professionals are central themes. Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis provides scholars with a clearer understanding of the intellectual structure of research on the implications of telemedicine for healthcare professionals, addressing key gaps left by previous reviews. While telemedicine offers numerous advantages, such as enhanced access to care and greater flexibility, it also raises challenges related to healthcare professionals' wellbeing, work practices, and communication with patients. Both contextual factors (e.g., digital skills training) and individual characteristics (e.g., attitudes toward telemedicine) play a significant role in shaping healthcare professionals' experiences with telemedicine. By identifying influential contributors and thematic patterns, this study offers a foundation for future research and informs the development of targeted interventions to sustain healthcare professionals in digitally mediated care environments.},
}

@article {pmid40427984,
year = {2025},
author = {D'Ardes, D and Deana, C and Boccatonda, A and Biasucci, DG and Cipollone, F and Castro-Sayat, M and Colaianni-Alfonso, N and Gallardo, A and Vetrugno, L},
title = {Lung Ultrasound After COVID-19: A Pivotal Moment for Clinical Integration-Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13101148},
pmid = {40427984},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Lung ultrasound (LUS) has emerged as a valuable bedside decision-making tool, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, with applications in diagnosing pneumonia, managing fluid, and monitoring interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), ultimately improving patient outcomes. Its repeatability, environmental safety, and reduced radiation exposure make it ideal for vulnerable populations and resource-limited settings. However, challenges such as inadequate documentation and a lack of standardized reporting formats limit its widespread adoption. The evolution of technology offers different possibilities, and improvements in software open up a range of possibilities, but this contrasts with the lack of postgraduate and undergraduate training and formal accreditation. This review addresses the impact of lung ultrasound through the course of air-liquid ratio impairment, crossing different clinical scenarios and exploring the challenges and opportunities for the implementation of lung ultrasound in the post-COVID era.},
}

@article {pmid40427812,
year = {2025},
author = {Santalucia, I and Sorrentino, M and Fiorilla, C and Tranquilli, S and Strazza, G and Montuori, P and Palladino, R and Fiore, M and Ferrante, M and Triassi, M},
title = {Learning from COVID-19: A Systematic Review of the IHR-SPAR Framework's Role in the Pandemic Response.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph22050695},
pmid = {40427812},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Humans ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *International Health Regulations ; },
abstract = {The International Health Regulations (IHR) provide a global framework for health security, requiring annual reporting on 35 indicators across 15 core capacities via the State Parties Annual Reporting (SPAR) tool. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed gaps in the IHR framework and monitoring systems, prompting calls for reform. This systematic review analyzed the correlations between IHR-SPAR scores and pandemic outcomes across nine studies (2020-2024), selected using the PRISMA guidelines. The study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's tool for cross-sectional studies. Of 1019 screened studies, nine met the inclusion criteria. Higher SPAR scores generally correlated with lower COVID-19 incidence and mortality, although some high-scoring countries experienced severe outbreaks. Middle-income countries showed the greatest improvement, particularly in risk communication and emergency response, while zoonotic disease capacities saw little progress. While the SPAR tool aids monitoring, it requires revisions to better reflect real-world pandemic responses. High SPAR scores do not always indicate effective crisis management. This study recommends integrating more dynamic, operational, and context-sensitive indicators to enhance the global preparedness for future health emergencies.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Humans
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Global Health
SARS-CoV-2
*International Health Regulations

@article {pmid40427786,
year = {2025},
author = {Espinola, N and Loudet, CI and Luxardo, R and Moreno, C and Kyaw, MH and Spinardi, J and Mendoza, CF and Carballo, CM and Dantas, AC and Abalos, MG and Ballivian, J and Navarro, E and Bardach, A},
title = {COVID-19 Disease and Economic Burden to Healthcare Systems in Adults in Six Latin American Countries Before Nationwide Vaccination Program: Ministry of Health Database Assessment and Literature Review.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph22050669},
pmid = {40427786},
issn = {1660-4601},
support = {NA//Pfizer/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/economics/epidemiology/mortality ; Adult ; Latin America/epidemiology ; *Cost of Illness ; *Health Care Costs/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Middle Aged ; Databases, Factual ; Aged ; Young Adult ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic imposed a substantial burden on healthcare systems worldwide, yet reliable data on COVID-19 morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs in Latin America remain limited. This study explored the disease and economic burden of COVID-19 in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru during the pre-vaccination period. Using national databases and a systematic review of the literature, we analyzed data on adults aged 18 and older, reporting cases, death rates, years of life lost, excess mortality, and direct medical costs. Before vaccination programs began, the average COVID-19 incidence rate was 6741 per 100,000 adults. Of these, 91% were mild cases, 7% moderate/severe, and 2% critical. Among 2,201,816 hospitalizations, 27.8% required intensive care, and 17.5% required mechanical ventilation. Excess mortality ranged from 76 to 557 per 100,000, and years of life lost spanned 241,089 to 3,312,346. Direct medical costs ranged from USD 258 million to USD 10,437 million, representing 2-5% of national health expenditures. The findings highlight significant variability across countries and provide crucial insights to help policymakers to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively to improve national strategies around surveillance, preventive and treatment strategies to control the spread of COVID-19 disease in the future.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/economics/epidemiology/mortality
Adult
Latin America/epidemiology
*Cost of Illness
*Health Care Costs/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Middle Aged
Databases, Factual
Aged
Young Adult
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40426590,
year = {2025},
author = {Andreev, DN and Khurmatullina, AR and Maev, IV and Bordin, DS and Zaborovskiy, AV and Abdulkhakov, SR and Kucheryavyy, YA and Sokolov, FS and Beliy, PA},
title = {Helicobacter pylori Antibiotic Resistance in Russia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14050524},
pmid = {40426590},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the temporal changes in Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance in Russia based on studies published over the past 15 years. Materials and Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, the Russian Science Citation Index, and Google Scholar, following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Our meta-analysis was pre-registered in PROSPERO (CRD 420251025636). The inclusion criteria included original research, published in English or Russian in 2011-2024, involving antibiotic susceptibility testing in treatment-naive Russian adults using validated diagnostic methods. Two independent researchers selected studies and extracted data using standardized procedures, with methodological quality assessed via the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Pooled resistance rates were calculated using fixed/random-effects models in MedCalc 23.1.5 and Python 3.9.21, with meta-regression investigating temporal trends and subgroup analyses examining regional and methodological variations. Results: We identified 16 studies comprising 1206 H. pylori isolates. The pooled analysis of studies (2011-2025) revealed an overall clarithromycin resistance rate of 15.236%, with a significant temporal increase from 11.903% pre-2015 to 21.024% in 2020-2024 (p = 0.0049). Metronidazole showed consistently high pooled resistance (33.309%), while amoxicillin (1.828%), levofloxacin (19.014%), tetracycline (1.328%), and rifampicin (5.803%) maintained low resistance rates, and dual clarithromycin-metronidazole resistance was observed in 2.793% of isolates. Regional disparities were notable in the two largest cities of Russia, with 18.763% clarithromycin resistance in Moscow versus 28.540% in Saint-Petersburg. Conclusions: Russia surpasses the Maastricht VI Consensus resistance threshold for clarithromycin (15%), necessitating revision of empirical treatment strategies. The significant increase in clarithromycin resistance, potentially exacerbated by antibiotic use during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the urgent need for resistance-guided therapies and ongoing national surveillance programs to optimize H. pylori management.},
}

@article {pmid40426524,
year = {2025},
author = {Satyam, SM and El-Tanani, M and Patni, MA and Rehman, A and Wali, AF and Rangraze, IR and Babiker, R and Rabbani, SA and El-Tanani, Y and Rizzo, M},
title = {Repurposing Anthelmintic Drugs for COVID-19 Treatment: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials on Ivermectin and Mebendazole.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14050459},
pmid = {40426524},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the urgent exploration of therapeutic options, including drug repurposing. Anthelmintic drugs such as ivermectin and mebendazole have garnered interest due to their potential antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. However, conflicting evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) necessitates a comprehensive meta-analysis to determine their efficacy and safety in COVID-19 management. Objective: This meta-analysis evaluates the clinical efficacy of ivermectin and mebendazole in treating COVID-19 by analyzing their impact on viral clearance, symptom resolution, hospitalization duration, and safety profiles. Methods: A systematic search of Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to identify RCTs published up to February 2025. Eligible studies included adult patients with confirmed COVID-19 who received ivermectin or mebendazole compared with a placebo or standard of care. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I[2] statistic, and pooled effect sizes were calculated for primary clinical outcomes. Results: Twenty-three RCTs (n = 12,345) were included, with twenty-one studies on ivermectin and two on mebendazole. The pooled analysis suggested no statistically significant improvement in viral clearance (p = 0.39), hospitalization duration (p = 0.15), or symptom resolution (p = 0.08) with ivermectin or mebendazole. However, individual studies indicated potential benefits, particularly for mebendazole, in reducing viral load and inflammation. Both drugs exhibited favorable safety profiles, with no significant increase in adverse events. Conclusions: The promising propensities observed in selected studies underscore the potential of ivermectin and mebendazole as adjunct therapies for COVID-19. With well-established safety profiles, immunomodulatory effects, and affordability, these drugs present strong candidates for further exploration. Advancing research through well-designed, large-scale RCTs will help unlock their full therapeutic potential and expand treatment options in the fight against COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40426384,
year = {2025},
author = {Fernández-Vilas, E and Coca, JR and Labora González, JJ and Iglesias Carrera, M},
title = {The Sociology of Suicide After COVID-19: Assessment of the Spanish Case.},
journal = {Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bs15050606},
pmid = {40426384},
issn = {2076-328X},
support = {2024-3608//Banco Santander (Spain)/ ; },
abstract = {The phenomenon of suicide has become a significant global concern, claiming over 800,000 lives annually and resulting in millions of suicide attempts worldwide. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, these troubling statistics have worsened, with notable increases in suicidal behavior, especially among vulnerable populations such as the youth, the elderly, and those in socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. This paper aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on suicide rates in Spain, using a theoretical ex post facto analysis. Spain has witnessed an alarming rise in suicide rates, particularly among young people, and a disturbing trend of increased suicidal ideation and self-harm behaviors. While some studies report no significant change in suicide rates during the pandemic, others point to the exacerbating effects of social isolation, economic instability, and public health measures. This study provides an in-depth examination of the psychosocial consequences of the pandemic on mental health in Spain, emphasizing the urgency of the need to address pre-existing inequalities and implement effective suicide prevention measures. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of gender-sensitive strategies and the need for systemic reforms to ensure better mental healthcare access for all segments of society. To achieve this goal, this paper uses a narrative literature review combined with a theoretical ex post facto analysis to assess the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on suicide patterns in Spain.},
}

@article {pmid40426351,
year = {2025},
author = {Agyapong-Opoku, N and Agyapong-Opoku, F and Greenshaw, AJ},
title = {Effects of Social Media Use on Youth and Adolescent Mental Health: A Scoping Review of Reviews.},
journal = {Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bs15050574},
pmid = {40426351},
issn = {2076-328X},
support = {N/A//Alberta Mental Health Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Background: The impact of social media on adolescent mental health has become a critical area of research as social media usage has surged among youth. Despite extensive research, findings on this relationship remain inconsistent, with various studies reporting both negative and positive effects. This scoping review aims to clarify the multifaceted nature of this relationship by analyzing the recent literature. Objective: This review aims to analyze the current evidence regarding the effects of social media use on adolescent mental health, identify consistent patterns and discrepancies in the findings, identify gaps in our knowledge, and highlight opportunities for further research. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage approach. Searches were performed in PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus for articles published between July 2020 and July 2024. Inclusion criteria were systematic reviews, umbrella reviews, narrative reviews, and meta-analyses written in English focusing on youth/adolescents' mental health and social media. The search strategy identified 1005 articles, of which 43 relevant articles survived the reviewer selection process, from which data were extracted and analyzed to inform this review. Results: The majority of studies linked social media use to adverse mental health outcomes, particularly depression and anxiety. However, the relationship was complex, with evidence suggesting that problematic use and passive consumption of social media were most strongly associated with adverse effects. In contrast, some studies highlighted positive aspects, including enhanced social support and reduced isolation. The mental health impact of social media use, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic, was mixed, with the full range of neutral, negative, and positive effects reported. Conclusions: The nature of social media's impact on adolescent mental health is highly individualistic and influenced by moderating factors. This review supports the notion that social media's effects on adolescent mental health can be context specific and may be shaped by patterns of usage. A focus on longitudinal studies in future research will be useful for us to understand long-term effects and develop targeted interventions in this context. Enhancing digital literacy and creating supportive online environments are essential to maximizing the benefits of social media while mitigating its risks.},
}

@article {pmid40426138,
year = {2025},
author = {Abbasi, AF and Karimi Dehkordi, N and SoleimanvandiAzar, N and Roohravan Benis, M and Nojomi, M},
title = {Gini coefficient, GDP per capita and COVID-19 mortality: a systematic review of ecologic studies.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1960},
pmid = {40426138},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {1401-4-90-24758//Iran University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality ; *Gross Domestic Product/statistics & numerical data ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since December 2019, when Wuhan officially reported COVID-19, the disease has spread globally, revealing significant variations in mortality rates influenced by socio-economic factors and health policies. This study aims to identify two predictors of COVID-19 mortality differences-GDP (Gross Domestic Product), and Gini Coefficient index-across various countries through a systematic review.

METHODS: The study was a systematic review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. The search strategy was searched in the titles and abstracts of the articles in three main databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Gini Coefficients and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the countries were used as mortality predictors. The initial search yielded 331 articles, which were assessed for quality using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Ultimately, 31 articles were included in the final synthesis.

RESULTS: Most studies analyzed data from multiple countries, with only ten of the thirty-one articles focusing on a single nation. Initial research in 2020 aimed to understand the immediate socioeconomic factors affecting COVID-19 outcomes. Later studies in 2021 and 2022 explored more complex interactions between the pandemic and socioeconomic factors, while long-term outcomes were published in 2023 and 2024. Some studies found a paradoxical relationship between GDP and COVID-19 mortality rates, whereas most indicated a positive correlation between COVID-19 mortality rates and the Gini index.

CONCLUSION: Both income inequality and GDP significantly influence COVID-19 mortality rates. While a higher GDP can provide some protective benefits, it does not completely shield countries from high mortality, especially when considering economic activity and demographics. Researchers consistently identify income inequality as a predictor of poorer health outcomes, highlighting the need for equitable health and social policies to mitigate vulnerabilities in future pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality
*Gross Domestic Product/statistics & numerical data
Socioeconomic Factors
Global Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40425603,
year = {2025},
author = {Gonete, AT and Tamir, TT and Techane, MA and Workneh, BS and Mekonen, EG and Ali, MS and Zegeye, AF and Wassie, M and Kassie, AT and Tsega, SS and Wassie, YA and Tekeba, B and Ahmed, MA},
title = {Practice and associated factors of Covid-19 prevention among health professionals in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {18462},
pmid = {40425603},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; },
abstract = {Health professionals (HPs) who work on the front lines are more likely to contract COVID-19.Healthmanners of HPs impact control and prevention activities employed in answer to the contagion crisis. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled level of practice and associated factors toward COVID-19 prevention among HPs in Ethiopia. PubMed, Scoups, Web of Science, Google Scholar (search engine), Google Advance, and Cochrane Library were searched from December 20, 2023 -January 30, 2024. Data was dugout using Microsoft Excel (version 10) and analysis was computed using STATA version 11. Funnel plot and quantitatively further through Egger's regression test, with P < 0.05 was used to check publication bias. I[2] statistics were used to check the heterogeneity of the studies. Pooled analysis was used using a weighted inverse variance random-effects model. A subgroup analysis was conducted based on publication year and region. Meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were used. Eighteen studies with 7,775 Health professionals were included in the review process. Among them, 57.03% (95% CI; 48.41, 65.65%) of HPs practice correctly. Although the risk factors reported were inconsistent between studies, access to infection prevention training (IP) (AOR = 1.79; 95% CI 1.54, 2.08), good knowledge (AOR = 1.92; 95% CI 1.38, 2.66), MSc degree and above (AOR = 3.53; 95% CI 2.64, 4.71), and positive attitude (AOR = 2.19; 95% CI 1.50, 3.19) were significant predictors of good practice. Nearly 43% of health professionals had poor practice. Good knowledge, positive attitude, level of education, and infection prevention training were the main determinants of good practice. The responsible authorities do emphases to halt barriers and improving the zero infection principles of health professionals during the pandemic.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Ethiopia/epidemiology
*Health Personnel
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice

@article {pmid40424828,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, L and Shi, X and Wang, R and Fan, Y and Xu, Z and Mirzaei, H and Wei, W},
title = {Cardiovascular impact of emerging and Re-emerging Viruses: Pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnosis, and management with a pediatric focus.},
journal = {Molecular aspects of medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {},
pages = {101371},
doi = {10.1016/j.mam.2025.101371},
pmid = {40424828},
issn = {1872-9452},
abstract = {Emerging and re-emerging viruses are currently known as a major public health issue. These viruses can cause various human complications such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), both in adults and pediatric populations. Although various CVDs have been previously reported for emerging and re-emerging viruses, the mechanisms underlying these complications remain relatively unknown. Children and infants, while commonly developing less severe symptoms, may experience notable cardiovascular manifestations during infections caused by emerging and re-emerging viral infections, which can result in both acute and long-term complications. The present review aims to discuss various cardiovascular complications linked to emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens (including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), dengue virus (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), and chikungunya virus (CHIKV)) such as arrhythmias, myocarditis, vascular disorders, and thromboembolic conditions, particularly among the pediatric population. This review also addresses the potential mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2, DENV, ZIKV, and CHIKV may impact the cardiovascular system and their clinical implications. Moreover, it discusses the diagnostic challenges for viral-caused cardiovascular disorders in children, owing to their common subtle or atypical manifestations. Finally, it addresses the present therapeutic specifically used for pediatric cases.},
}

@article {pmid40423359,
year = {2025},
author = {Ochola, R},
title = {The Case for Genomic Surveillance in Africa.},
journal = {Tropical medicine and infectious disease},
volume = {10},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40423359},
issn = {2414-6366},
abstract = {Sub-Saharan Africa has made remarkable strides in genomic surveillance, with more than 50% of countries now equipped with an in-country sequencing capacity and 98% actively contributing data to public genomic repositories. Catalyzed by the momentum of the COVID-19 pandemic, these advancements have extended far beyond SARS-CoV-2 to address a broader spectrum of public health threats, including antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and other emerging infectious diseases. This review explores these transformative achievements, identifies remaining gaps, and outlines strategic priorities for embedding genomics into the continent's health systems. With a focus on sustainability, equity, and cross-sector collaboration, it positions Africa as a driver of global innovation in pathogen surveillance, uniquely leveraging its genetic and epidemiological diversity.},
}

@article {pmid40423350,
year = {2025},
author = {Leung, V and Ritchie, G and Stefanovic, A and Lee, C and Chorlton, S and Matic, N and Romney, MG and Hayden, A and Lowe, CF},
title = {An Outbreak of Multidrug-Resistant Shigella flexneri Serotype 2a Among People Experiencing Homelessness in Vancouver.},
journal = {Tropical medicine and infectious disease},
volume = {10},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40423350},
issn = {2414-6366},
abstract = {Background: We describe a community-based outbreak of multidrug-resistant Shigella flexneri serotype 2a among people experiencing homelessness (PEH) in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In this observational cohort study, we followed the Outbreak Reports and Intervention Studies of Nosocomial Infection (ORION) reporting guidelines. We identified cases by laboratory surveillance and collected demographic and clinical data from the medical charts or patient interviews. We implemented enhanced surveillance and disseminated testing and management guidelines. Shigella flexneri isolates were serotyped, and whole-genome sequencing was performed. Results: We identified 101 confirmed cases of Shigella flexneri 2a (80% male; median age 43) between 31 January and 16 December 2021. All the affected individuals experienced homelessness, and substance use disorder was the most common comorbidity (88%). Five patients required ICU hospitalization, and one death occurred within 30 days. Core-genome multilocus sequence typing analysis confirmed a clonal outbreak. All S. flexneri isolates were phenotypically and genotypically multidrug-resistant. Conclusions: COVID-19 exacerbated longstanding public health concerns around the dearth of hygiene and sanitation resources available to PEH. Preventing similar outbreaks will require addressing these risks and finding solutions to the crisis of homelessness in Canada.},
}

@article {pmid40422702,
year = {2025},
author = {Landré, V and Klingebiel, FK and van Niftrik, CHB and Goetze, E and Speck, RF and Hübner, CT and Pape, HC and Schäfer, FP},
title = {Mucormycosis Caused by Apophysomyces elegans-A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature of Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Cases of the Genus Apophysomyces.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {40422702},
issn = {2309-608X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Orbitocerebral mucormycosis, caused by Apophysomyces, is a rare infection, usually occurring in tropical and subtropical climates, with a high mortality rate. We report a case of orbitocerebral mucormycosis caused by A. elegans in a person living with HIV (PLWHIV) from Africa alongside a systematic literature review updating current diagnostic and treatment strategies for orbitocerebral mucormycosis caused by Apophysomyces.

METHODS: The presented case was treated in our hospital for polytrauma following a motor vehicle accident (MVA) with aggressive surgical debridement and therapy with liposomal Amphotericin B (AMB). We evaluated clinical presentation, imaging, surgery, and postoperative outcomes. A systematic review of English or German language articles (published between 1985 and 2025) was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Articles describing patients with mucormycosis due to Apophysomyces were summarized. Quantitative values for relevant parameters that indicated a reduction in mortality and morbidity were obtained.

RESULTS: The systematic search initially identified 452 publications, from which 79 studies were retrieved. Seventeen publications comprising 21 cases were included, along with one additional case from our institution, for a total of 22 rhino-orbito-cerebral infections caused by the genus Apophysomyces. Apophysomyces elegans (A. elegans) was the most frequently isolated species (n = 17), followed by A. variabilis (n = 4) and A. ossiformis (n = 1); A. trapeziformis was not reported. The majority of patients were male (72.7%), with a mean age of 40.7 ± 15.9 years. Trauma (27.3%) and diabetes mellitus (18.2%) were the most common underlying risk factors, with SARS-CoV-2 infection identified in 13.6% of cases.

CONCLUSION: Mucormycosis due to Apophysomyces is a rare but potentially devastating condition. Based on our experience and the literature, we suggest that the early diagnosis of Apophysomyces treated with liposomal AMB and aggressive surgical debridement is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality.},
}

@article {pmid40422292,
year = {2025},
author = {Neto, GEF and Prudente, GD and de Oliveira, HL and de Lima, KBA and da Silva Menezes Junior, A},
title = {Telerehabilitation as an innovative strategy for the management of anxiety and dyspnea in post-COVID-19: A scoping review.},
journal = {PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/pmrj.13403},
pmid = {40422292},
issn = {1934-1563},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges for everyone, especially for patients with persistent sequelae, driving interest in telerehabilitation as an alternative treatment. Additional evidence may be useful to better assess its efficacy and applicability in managing post-COVID-19 symptoms. This study aimed to enhance the understanding of telerehabilitation in the post-COVID-19 context, facilitating its integration into clinical settings and patient management. Adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, we reviewed PubMed, Excerpta Medica, and Scopus databases until January 2024. The study included primary and secondary research evaluating the benefits and drawbacks of telerehabilitation for patients with persistent COVID sequelae. This review analyzed 19 studies on telerehabilitation for long-term COVID-19 patients. Key findings included the comparison between hospital-based and telerehabilitation and synchronous versus asynchronous telerehabilitation. The main sequelae addressed were dyspnea, quality of life, and anxiety. Limitations, particularly regarding costs, were also examined. Telerehabilitation provides psychological and social support, which is essential for managing post-COVID-19. Despite initial costs, long-term benefits include reduced anxiety and improved quality of life. More long-term research is needed to better understand the limitations and potential implications of telerehabilitation for integration into post-COVID-19 care to optimize outcomes and provide continuous support to patients and caregivers during recovery.},
}

@article {pmid40420966,
year = {2025},
author = {Muodiaju, JC and Madu, CS},
title = {Messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA)-Based Universal Vaccines: Engineering Broad-Spectrum Immunity Against Future Pandemics.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {e84821},
pmid = {40420966},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The rapid emergence and evolution of infectious pathogens, including the COVID-19 pandemic and recurring influenza outbreaks, underscore the need for universal vaccines capable of providing broad-spectrum immunity. Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccine technology has emerged as a transformative platform due to its rapid development, high immunogenicity, and adaptability to new variants. Unlike conventional vaccines, which rely on weakened or inactivated pathogens, mRNA vaccines instruct host cells to produce antigens that elicit robust immune responses. This paper explores the design principles, mechanisms of action, and advancements in mRNA-based universal vaccines, emphasizing their potential against influenza, coronaviruses, and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. We discuss innovations such as self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA), nanoparticle-based delivery systems, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven antigen selection. Additionally, challenges such as antigenic variability, immune evasion, stability issues, and global distribution barriers are addressed. With continued research and development, mRNA-based universal vaccines could play a critical role in pandemic preparedness and global health security.},
}

@article {pmid40420959,
year = {2025},
author = {Okusanya, BO and Gadanya, M and Nlemadim, A and Adaramoye, V and Akeju, DO and Ehiri, J and Meremiku, MM},
title = {Systematic review of surface disinfection: Spraying versus wiping for COVID-19 prevention.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {597},
pmid = {40420959},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Within countries, community spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) propagated the infection despite the use of non-pharmaceutical interventions.

AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of disinfecting surfaces and materials in the community by spraying compared with wiping (mechanical cleaning) or nothing for SARS-CoV-2 infection prevention.

SETTING: This research was conducted in a global context.

METHOD: We searched six databases for eligible studies from 01 January 2020 to 06 September 2022. Spraying disinfectants was the intervention, while wiping or nothing was the comparison. Review outcomes include SARS-CoV-2 infection, the incidence of adverse effects and operator satisfaction. The review was registered on Prospero: CRD42022356276.

RESULTS: We found no studies that compared spraying with wiping or had human participants. Three studies with indirect evidence, published between 2021 and 2022 in Japan, South Korea and Spain, were included. Dry fog spraying of 8 700 parts per million (ppm) of hypochlorous acid solution or 56 400 ppm of hydrogen peroxide solution reduced the infectious viral titre. Wiping with 1000 ppm of sodium hypochlorite for 1 min completely reduces SARS-CoV-2 viruses on stainless steel. Also, wiping with 500 ppm of bleach for 5 min completely reduces the virus on kraft paper and polypropylene. No viruses were detected on any surface after wiping with 1000 ppm of bleach for 5 min.

CONCLUSION: This review provides basic scientific evidence that either spraying disinfectants as dry fog or wiping has some disinfectant effects on surfaces and materials.

CONTRIBUTION: Although the review included no human studies, both methods of disinfection can be practiced in the community for SARS-CoV-2 infection prevention.},
}

@article {pmid40420061,
year = {2025},
author = {Eslami, A and Allami, P and KamaliZonouzi, S and Ravanbakhsh, M and Razi, S and Yazdanpanah, N and Rezaei, N},
title = {Prevalence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder during the COVID-19 lockdown in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {546},
pmid = {40420061},
issn = {1471-244X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Arthritis, Rheumatoid/psychology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology/psychology ; *Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/psychology/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Anxiety/epidemiology ; *Depression/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated lockdown measures had a profound impact on mental health, particularly among individuals with chronic illnesses. Patients with autoimmune arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), are already at increased risk for psychological disorders due to the chronic nature of their disease, physical disability, and long-term medication use. The added stress of the pandemic, including fear of infection, limited access to healthcare, and social isolation, may have further exacerbated mental health issues in this population. This systematic review aims to evaluate the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among individuals with autoimmune arthritis during the pandemic. A comprehensive search of major medical databases identified 18 relevant studies, encompassing 9,666 participants from various geographic regions. By synthesizing findings across diverse populations, this review examines the extent of the mental health burden in this vulnerable group and highlights the importance of mental health support during public health crises. Understanding these impacts can help guide future research and inform healthcare policies to better support autoimmune arthritis patients in times of crisis.},
}

Humans
*Arthritis, Rheumatoid/psychology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology/psychology
*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/psychology/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Anxiety/epidemiology
*Depression/epidemiology

@article {pmid40419326,
year = {2025},
author = {Belmonte, M and Albiero, A and Callewaert, F and Patris, J and Whittal, A},
title = {Understanding supply sustainability of plasma-derived medicinal products: Drivers and consequences of shortages.},
journal = {Vox sanguinis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/vox.70052},
pmid = {40419326},
issn = {1423-0410},
support = {//argenx/ ; },
abstract = {Plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs), particularly immunoglobulins (Igs), are essential treatments for numerous diseases, often serving as the primary therapeutic option and playing a critical role in patient care. The human origin of these products, however, can lead to supply constraints due to a lack of plasma collection, market dynamics, regulatory challenges and manufacturing complexities. Many nations lack plasma self-sufficiency and often rely on the United States, which supplies approximately 70% of the world's plasma. This supply chain is vulnerable to disruptions, such as those caused by COVID-19. Additionally, plasma processing timelines are lengthy-Ig manufacturing takes 7-12 months compared with 2-3 months for biologics. Despite the global Ig market's projected growth from $13.36 billion to $24.98 billion between 2023 and 2032, plasma shortages persist. The European Medicines Agency anticipated shortages to affect 14 European countries in 2024. These factors can have significant implications for patients, with growing demand likely leading to supply challenges and forcing countries to prioritize certain indications in the face of shortages. Policy interventions may be needed to ensure the sustainable use of these products in treating immune-mediated disorders and related conditions. Exploring alternative treatments where possible could also mitigate the risk of shortages and maintain access to these life-saving therapies. This review examines the sustainability of PDMPs, focusing on drivers and consequences of shortages, insufficient plasma collection, vulnerability of the plasma supply chain and impacts on patients. A scoping literature research was conducted in PubMed, supplemented by internal knowledge and targeted web searches.},
}

@article {pmid40419200,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhat, AA and Singh, I and Farid, A and Wani, AW and Khanday, F and Wani, AK and Shah, N and Hassan, A and Kabrah, A and Qusty, NF and Babalghith, AO and Alghamdi, S},
title = {Repositioning Antivirals Against COVID-19: Synthetic Pathways, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Insights.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107724},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107724},
pmid = {40419200},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The pandemic of COVID-19 has ignited a global race to locate effective therapies with drug repositioning emerging as a leading strategy due to its cost-effectiveness and established safety profiles. Remdesivir, Favipiravir, Hydroxychloroquine, and Chloroquine have been the focus of rigorous clinical trials to determine their therapeutic potential against SARS-CoV-2. This article delves into the innovative synthetic strategies behind these drugs, providing a blueprint for researchers navigating the complex landscape of antiviral development. Beyond synthesis, we explore the fascinating mechanisms of action: hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine elevate lysosomal pH to impede autophagy and viral replication; favipiravir, a nucleoside analogue, induces lethal mutagenesis or RNA chain termination and remdesivir disrupts viral RNA synthesis through delayed chain termination. By merging synthetic methodologies with mechanistic insights, this article offers a comprehensive resource aimed at accelerating the development of potent COVID-19 therapies and underscores the crucial part that chemistry in addressing global health emergencies. It also underscores the vital function of chemistry in addressing global health emergencies and highlights how innovative drug design and repurposing can provide rapid responses to emerging infectious diseases. This fusion of chemistry and virology not only advances our understanding of drug action but also paves the way for the discovery of new therapeutic agents crucial in future pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid40418749,
year = {2025},
author = {Rumfelt, KE and Englund, JA and Kachikis, A},
title = {The burden, pathogenesis, clinical outcomes, and treatment of common respiratory virus infections during pregnancy.},
journal = {Women's health (London, England)},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {17455057251338501},
pmid = {40418749},
issn = {1745-5065},
support = {K23 AI153390/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology/virology/therapy ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology/therapy ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pregnancy Outcome ; },
abstract = {Respiratory illnesses due to respiratory virus infections disproportionately impact pregnant individuals and their infants, leading to significant morbidity and mortality globally. Data describing the incidence and impact of these infections in pregnancy is sparse and more common for influenza and now severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 with less data available on other respiratory virus infections in pregnancy. This lack of data is a result of limited prospective surveillance and issues surrounding the calculations of seroprevalence, as well as disproportionately low funding for reproductive health research. In this review article, we aimed to summarize available data on respiratory virus infections in pregnancy and identify gaps in the published literature.},
}

Humans
Pregnancy
Female
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology/virology/therapy
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology/therapy
COVID-19/epidemiology
Influenza, Human/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pregnancy Outcome

@article {pmid40418682,
year = {2025},
author = {Alkharaan, H},
title = {Infectious and Immunological Links Between Periodontitis and COVID-19: A Review.},
journal = {Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research},
volume = {31},
number = {},
pages = {e948069},
doi = {10.12659/MSM.948069},
pmid = {40418682},
issn = {1643-3750},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications/virology ; *Periodontitis/immunology/complications/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Cytokines/immunology/metabolism ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Risk Factors ; Inflammation/immunology ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology ; },
abstract = {Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between periodontitis and adverse outcomes in COVID-19. Both conditions share risk factors and exhibit similar immune dysregulation, including elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines, altered myeloid compartments, and T-cell dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 uses angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 and transmembrane protease serine 2 membrane proteins, highly expressed in the oral cavity, for cellular entry. Periodontitis may exacerbate COVID-19 through mechanisms such as oral microbe aspiration, increased viral receptor expression, and systemic inflammation. The shared immunopathogenesis, characterized by cytokine storms and perturbed immune profiles, suggests periodontitis can predispose patients to more severe COVID-19 outcomes. This article aims to review the associations between periodontitis and the severity of COVID-19 and the possible immune mechanisms involved.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications/virology
*Periodontitis/immunology/complications/virology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Cytokines/immunology/metabolism
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Risk Factors
Inflammation/immunology
Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology

@article {pmid40418574,
year = {2025},
author = {Osimitz, TG and Droege, W},
title = {Perspectives on safety of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs).},
journal = {Journal of toxicology and environmental health. Part B, Critical reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-26},
doi = {10.1080/10937404.2025.2503784},
pmid = {40418574},
issn = {1521-6950},
abstract = {Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are widely used to kill pathogenic microbes (including COVID-19), providing a substantial public health benefit. This review is an update to our previous publications that summarized and interpreted the current knowledge of the safety of the two most widely used QACs, alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (ADBAC) and didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC). A literature search was conducted for studies published since 2000 that addressed possible toxicity of ADBAC and DDAC as well as investigations into human exposure. The current database of high-quality animal toxicology studies with ADBAC/DDAC showed that adverse cellular changes are limited to effects at the point of contact. (1) Non-guideline animal toxicology investigations, (2) studies of the effect of QACs on subcellular functions, and (3) the sole report of systemic effects in humans might not be informative for human health risk assessment. Because of their widespread use, human exposure to QACs is frequent. Various reports measured QACs in media in the home and workplaces. Risk calculations performed based upon these exposure estimates performed as part of this review demonstrated that none of the exposure scenarios examined are predicted to pose adverse health risks to exposed individuals.},
}

@article {pmid40418545,
year = {2025},
author = {Varikasuvu, SR and Manne, M and Kumar, S and Mudgal, SK and Raj, V and Varshney, S and Gupta, P and Grover, A and Goyal, C and Lal, V and Singh, H and Lisa, M and Saransh Workshop Members, },
title = {COVID-19 clinical outcomes and N-acetylcysteine (CoViNAC study): a GRADE compliant meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies with Mpro of SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Cellular and molecular biology (Noisy-le-Grand, France)},
volume = {71},
number = {5},
pages = {95-102},
doi = {10.14715/cmb/2025.71.5.13},
pmid = {40418545},
issn = {1165-158X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Acetylcysteine/therapeutic use ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Coronavirus 3C Proteases/metabolism/chemistry ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Molecular Dynamics Simulation ; COVID-19/mortality/virology ; Treatment Outcome ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been proposed as an adjuvant therapy for COVID-19, but evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) remains inconclusive. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated NAC's efficacy in improving mortality and recovery/discharge rates. Additionally, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation (MDMS) studies were conducted to assess NAC's interaction with the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), a key enzyme for viral replication. A systematic search identified 12 RCTs, with 11 trials (1125 patients) included in the mortality analysis. NAC significantly reduced mortality (RR=0.59, 95% CI 0.39-0.88, p=0.01; I[2]=62%), indicating a 41% decreased risk of death. Six RCTs (656 patients) showed improved recovery/discharge rates (RR=1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.14, p=0.003; I[2]=0%). MDMS studies demonstrated stable NAC binding at the Mpro catalytic site, interacting with His41 and Cys145, crucial for enzymatic activity. These findings suggest NAC significantly improves clinical outcomes in COVID-19 and may inhibit viral replication by targeting Mpro. This integrated evidence substantiates NAC's potential as a critical adjuvant therapy.},
}

Humans
*Acetylcysteine/therapeutic use
Molecular Docking Simulation
*SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Coronavirus 3C Proteases/metabolism/chemistry
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Molecular Dynamics Simulation
COVID-19/mortality/virology
Treatment Outcome
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40418401,
year = {2025},
author = {Zou, H and Wang, Y and Luo, G and Huang, S},
title = {The biomechanical phenomena observed in the cell invasion pathway of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus: a review.},
journal = {Archives of virology},
volume = {170},
number = {7},
pages = {139},
pmid = {40418401},
issn = {1432-8798},
support = {cqsx2021001//Chongqing Three Gouges Vocational College/ ; KJQN202203513//Chongqing Municipal Education Commission/ ; },
mesh = {*Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/physiology ; Animals ; Swine ; *Virus Internalization ; Endocytosis ; *Swine Diseases/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/veterinary ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Cell Membrane/virology ; },
abstract = {Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is the primary pathogen responsible for highly contagious intestinal infections in pigs, which results in significant economic losses to the global animal husbandry industry. PEDV is an enveloped virus that enters cells via endocytosis, a process that is dependent on the binding of the viral surface S protein to a receptor on the host cell membrane. This results in a series of biomechanical alterations that drive the fusion of the viral and host cell membranes. These alterations stabilise the binding of the virus to the receptor and also affect the tension and the curvature of the plasma membrane and the formation of endocytic vesicles. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanism by which PEDV enters cells and the biomechanical changes that accompany this process is of paramount importance for the development of PEDV inhibitors, vaccines, and disease prevention and control strategies. Here, we review the general mechanism of PEDV entry, the biomechanical phenomena that occur during endocytosis, and the potential applications of biomechanics in antiviral therapy. It is anticipated that by gaining insight into these mechanisms, novel approaches to regulating viral entry pathways through mechanical interference, vaccine development, and antiviral drug design can be explored.},
}

*Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/physiology
Animals
Swine
*Virus Internalization
Endocytosis
*Swine Diseases/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/veterinary
Biomechanical Phenomena
Cell Membrane/virology

@article {pmid40418273,
year = {2025},
author = {Caldwell, JM and Espinosa, CM and Banerjee, R and Domachowske, JB},
title = {Rapid diagnosis of acute pediatric respiratory infections with Point-of-Care and multiplex molecular testing.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40418273},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {Acute infections of the respiratory tract are very common in pediatric patients, with an estimated global incidence of 17.2 billion cases in 2019. Accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment of acute respiratory infections can prevent progression to more serious pathologies, especially in the young, elderly, immunocompromised, and other high-risk groups. Due to the significant increase in the number of multiplex molecular tests available, there are now many diagnostic options which generate results within minutes or hours, many of which can be performed at point-of-care or near-patient rather than being sent out to a centralized laboratory. Rapid molecular single- or multiplex testing conducted at point-of-care or near-patient offers the potential to improve timely and accurate diagnosis, decrease inappropriate antibiotic use, decrease reliance on chest radiographs, improve timely antiviral administration, reduce the length of hospital stay, reduce the number of clinical visits, and, ultimately, improve patient outcomes. Optimal use of user-friendly multiplex molecular panels also has the potential to improve regional and global disease surveillance and to fill gaps that exist in our understanding of the epidemiology of respiratory infections. These potential benefits, however, come with limitations. For example, use of multiplex PCR assays is not always a cost effective approach. Despite their potential, there are clinical and/or laboratory circumstances where their use becomes cost prohibitive. Another recognized limitation of multiplex PCR assays is that the pathogen detected may not be the cause of a patient's current symptom complex. Such false positive results may occur because the assays are designed to detect pathogen-specific nucleic acid (which may be residual from a prior illness), rather than replication competent pathogens, or because some pathogens can be present without causing symptomatic infection. Further study is needed to determine optimal use of these tests across different patient groups and settings. Incorporating recommendations for best practice use of multiplex molecular assays into clinical guidelines helps offer a framework for their most appropriate use in the diagnosis of pediatric acute respiratory infections.},
}

@article {pmid40416841,
year = {2025},
author = {Mahendran, R and Ju, K and Yang, Z and Gao, Y and Huang, W and Yu, W and Liu, Y and Hundessa, S and Yu, P and Xu, R and Zhang, L and Li, S and Guo, Y},
title = {Wildfire-Related Air Pollution and Infectious Diseases: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {ACS environmental Au},
volume = {5},
number = {3},
pages = {253-266},
pmid = {40416841},
issn = {2694-2518},
abstract = {Amid the global rise in wildfire events, the health impacts of wildfire-related air pollution are increasingly scrutinized. While numerous reviews have examined the link between air pollution and infectious diseases, reviews specifically focusing on wildfire-related air pollution and infectious diseases remain scarce. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Science databases up to December 31, 2023, using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews & Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Search terms included synonyms of wildfire and infectious diseases. Peer-reviewed epidemiological studies that reported any association or trend between wildfire air pollution and infectious diseases were selected against eligibility criteria. Risk of bias and quality of included studies were assessed using modified risk of bias and quality assessment tools. Our review included 30 studies, predominantly from developed countries including the United States (USA), Australia, and Canada. Most focused on respiratory infectious diseases (n = 29), including 9 specifically on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The majority examined short-term wildfire air pollution (n = 27) (exposure of one month or less). Twenty-three studies reported effect estimates for the meta-analysis. We found that a 10 μg/m[3] increase in short-term wildfire PM2.5 (particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometer of less) exposure was associated with a 15% increase in COVID-19 infections (relative risk [RR] = 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09-1.21; heterogeneity (I [2]): 83%), a 3% increase in respiratory diseases (RR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01-1.05; I [2]: 0%) and a 3% increase in acute upper respiratory infection combined with acute bronchitis (RR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02-1.05; I [2]: 62%). Medium-term exposure (more than a month but less than a year) to wildfire smoke was associated with 20% rising hospitalization for systemic fungal infections like coccidioidomycosis (95% CI: 5-38%). The current research exclusively examines respiratory infections in developed countries. Future high-quality primary studies should prioritize understanding the impact of wildfire-related air pollution on various infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40416618,
year = {2025},
author = {Eltayeb, A and Adilović, M and Golzardi, M and Hromić-Jahjefendić, A and Rubio-Casillas, A and Uversky, VN and Redwan, EM},
title = {Intrinsic factors behind long COVID: exploring the role of nucleocapsid protein in thrombosis.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e19429},
pmid = {40416618},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Thrombosis/virology/metabolism/etiology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism ; },
abstract = {COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2, poses significant global health challenges. A key player in its pathogenesis is the nucleocapsid protein (NP), which is crucial for viral replication and assembly. While NPs from other coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, are known to increase inflammation and cause acute lung injury, the specific effects of the SARS-CoV-2 NP on host cells remain largely unexplored. Recent findings suggest that the NP acts as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) that binds to Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), activating NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling pathways. This activation is particularly pronounced in severe COVID-19 cases, leading to elevated levels of soluble ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1) and VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1), which contribute to endothelial dysfunction and multiorgan damage. Furthermore, the NP is implicated in hyperinflammation and thrombosis-key factors in COVID-19 severity and long COVID. Its potential to bind with MASP-2 (mannan-binding lectin serine protease 2) may also be linked to persistent symptoms in long COVID patients. Understanding these mechanisms, particularly the role of the NP in thrombosis, is essential for developing targeted therapies to manage both acute and chronic effects of COVID-19 effectively. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the multifaceted roles of the NP, highlighting its contributions to viral pathogenesis, immune evasion, and the exacerbation of thrombotic events, thereby providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for mitigating the severe and long-term impacts of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Thrombosis/virology/metabolism/etiology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism

@article {pmid40416616,
year = {2025},
author = {Xue, L and Qi, Y and Zou, Y},
title = {Short-term safety and efficacy of aspirin in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e19466},
pmid = {40416616},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Humans ; *Aspirin/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/mortality/complications ; Hemorrhage/chemically induced ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Thrombosis/prevention & control ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Coagulation activation and inflammatory derangements are key characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Aspirin therapy in patients with COVID-19 remains uncertain due to conflicting evidence regarding its ability to balance anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic benefits against potential bleeding risks in the context of COVID-19-associated coagulopathy. This study aimed to compare the clinical safety and efficacy of aspirin in patients with COVID-19 in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: In the present systematic review and meta-analysis, the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for RCTs from database inception to January 13, 2023. Data were independently extracted and screened by two authors using structured data collection forms based on published reports. Results were calculated using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with the Mantel-Haenszel method. Quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The main outcomes were short-term all-cause mortality, bleeding events and any thrombosis events. This meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO.

RESULTS: A total of 922 studies were identified. Finally, six RCTs with low risk of bias were pooled in the analysis. The results showed that aspirin use was not associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality (OR = 0.95, 95% CI [0.88-1.03], I[2] = 0%) or the risk of any thrombosis (RR 0.88, 95% CI [0.77-1.01], I[2] = 0%), but aspirin use was associated with a higher risk of bleeding (OR 1.72, 95% CI [1.32-2.24], I[2] = 0%). No obvious risk of bias was found among the included RCTs for the primary outcome.

CONCLUSION: Routine low-dose aspirin use does not reduce the risk of short-term mortality and risk of any thrombosis but increases the risk of bleeding. The data does not support the use of low-dose aspirin in patients with COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Aspirin/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/mortality/complications
Hemorrhage/chemically induced
SARS-CoV-2
Thrombosis/prevention & control
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40416015,
year = {2025},
author = {Harabuchi, Y and Kumai, T and Nishi, K and Tanaka, A and Hotta, O and Hagino, H and Kusuyama, T and Mogitate, M and Ohno, Y and Sakakibara, A and Araki, S and Nishida, Y and Shintani, T and Takezawa, H and Ito, H and Komazawa, D and Nishiwaki, N and Toritani, R and Hirahata, K and Marumo, S},
title = {Retracted: Chronic Epipharyngitis Treated with Epipharyngeal Abrasion Therapy: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Pathogenesis, and Treatment Outcomes.},
journal = {JMA journal},
volume = {8},
number = {2},
pages = {371-384},
pmid = {40416015},
issn = {2433-3298},
abstract = {Chronic epipharyngitis is associated with a wide variety of symptoms, including local symptoms such as postnasal drip, sore throat, lump sensation of the pharynx, headache, chronic cough, nasal obstruction, tinnitus/ear fullness, chronic phlegm and dysphonia due to inflammation of the epipharynx, functional somatic symptoms such as chronic fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, brain fog, abdominal discomfort, and depression caused by dysfunction of the hypothalamus-limbic system via disturbances of vagal response and cerebrospinal fluid outflow, and distant organ symptoms such as immunoglobulin A nephropathy and palmoplantar pustulosis caused by the epipharyngeal lymphoid tissue as an etiologic organ. In the past, chronic inflammation in the epipharynx was difficult to prove by gross findings, now, direct observation of the epipharyngeal inflammation by endoscopy has become easier for the diagnosis. For the treatment of chronic epipharyngitis, epipharyngeal abrasive therapy (EAT), epipharyngeal application of a 1% zinc chloride solution intranasally or orally was popular since the 1960s, recently, endoscopic EAT (E-EAT), in which epipharynx is safely and accurately observed and abraded under clear vision using an endoscope, has been developed. The mechanisms of EAT effects can be classified into anti-inflammatory/antiviral effect, bloodletting effect, and vagus nerve stimulation effect. Recently, the effectiveness of EAT for post-acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), known as long COVID, has come into the limelight, and the number of patients for whom EAT is expected to increase. In 2019, the Japan Society of Stomato-pharyngology established the EAT Review Committee to accumulate evidence on the efficacy of EAT and to establish indications and techniques for its use. In this article, the EAT Review Committee outlines its symptoms, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of chronic epipharyngitis, technique of E-EAT, mechanisms of EAT effects, past reports for the efficacy of EAT, and a multicenter prospective study.},
}

@article {pmid40415711,
year = {2025},
author = {Schürmann, PJL and van Breda Vriesman, SPE and Castro-Alpízar, JA and Kooijmans, SAA and Nieuwenhuis, EES and Schiffelers, RM and Fuchs, SA},
title = {Therapeutic Application of mRNA for Genetic Diseases.},
journal = {Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {e70019},
pmid = {40415711},
issn = {1939-0041},
support = {10104161//European Research Council, ERC-2021-STG PRIME/ ; //Stichting Metakids, mRNA-research/ ; //Koninklijke Nederlandse Akademie van Wetenschappen, KNAW Ammodo Science Award for Groundbreaking Research 2022/ ; 09150182310045//Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, NWA-ORC Research along Routes by Consortia, Netherlands Science Agenda - Research along Routes/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Genetic Therapy/methods ; *RNA, Messenger/genetics/therapeutic use ; *Genetic Diseases, Inborn/therapy/genetics ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Animals ; Gene Editing ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {While gene therapy has been at the center of an active research field for decades, messenger RNA (mRNA) has long been considered unsuited for therapeutic application due to challenges with stability, immunogenicity, and delivery. Where gene therapy focuses on providing the desired genetic code, mRNA can directly provide the instructions encoded in the corresponding gene. This review aims to explore recent advances in mRNA therapies, building on the success of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, and extend these insights to the potential treatment of rare genetic diseases. We follow the "outside-in" trajectory of mRNA therapies from administration to intracellular function, focusing on carrier systems such as lipid nanoparticles and virus-like particles, mRNA modifications, and the potential and challenges for clinical applications. To treat rare diseases, different approaches can be envisioned, including chronic or acute delivery of mRNAs encoding functional enzymes for enzyme deficiencies and delivery of CRISPR/Cas9-based gene-editing tools for gene correction. These different approaches determine safety and immunological considerations. By exploring genetic, technical, and therapeutic aspects, this review highlights the potential and current challenges of mRNA therapies to address the large unmet needs in rare genetic disorders.},
}

Humans
*Genetic Therapy/methods
*RNA, Messenger/genetics/therapeutic use
*Genetic Diseases, Inborn/therapy/genetics
COVID-19/prevention & control
Animals
Gene Editing
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19 Vaccines
Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid40415355,
year = {2025},
author = {Focosi, D and Alfonsi, T and Bernasconi, A},
title = {Is SARS-CoV-2 Spike Evolution Being Retargeted at the N-Terminal Domain?.},
journal = {Discovery medicine},
volume = {37},
number = {196},
pages = {801-807},
doi = {10.24976/Discov.Med.202537196.70},
pmid = {40415355},
issn = {1944-7930},
mesh = {*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/immunology/chemistry ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/immunology ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Protein Domains ; Mutation ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; },
abstract = {Since 2020, most of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) evolution has been focused on the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the Spike protein. Nevertheless, the N-terminal domain (NTD) of Spike has been shown to represent the target for neutralizing antibodies, and accordingly, NTD mutations are relevant for immune escape. In 2024, after the introduction of the BA.2.86 saltation variant (heavily mutated at the NTD antigenic supersite), its descendant JN.1 has further explored NTD evolution in its progeny, largely focused on positions 22, 31, 59 and 60. In this review, we explore such convergent evolution in detail and hypothesize the underlying mechanisms.},
}

*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/immunology/chemistry
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology
Humans
*COVID-19/virology/immunology
*Evolution, Molecular
Protein Domains
Mutation
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology

@article {pmid40415285,
year = {2025},
author = {Eltayeb, A and Rubio-Casillas, A and Uversky, VN and Redwan, EM},
title = {Intrinsic Factors Behind Long COVID: VI. Combined Impact of G3BPs and SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein on the Viral Persistence and Long COVID.},
journal = {Journal of cellular biochemistry},
volume = {126},
number = {5},
pages = {e70038},
doi = {10.1002/jcb.70038},
pmid = {40415285},
issn = {1097-4644},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/metabolism/immunology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/physiology ; *Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism ; *RNA Recognition Motif Proteins/metabolism/immunology ; *Poly-ADP-Ribose Binding Proteins/metabolism/immunology ; *DNA Helicases/metabolism ; *Phosphoproteins/metabolism ; *RNA Helicases/metabolism ; Virus Replication ; Stress Granules/metabolism/virology ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; },
abstract = {The efficient transmission of SARS-CoV-2 caused the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected millions of people around the globe. Despite extensive efforts, specific therapeutic interventions and preventive measures against COVID-19 and its consequences, such as long COVID, have not yet been identified due to the lack of a comprehensive knowledge of the SARS-CoV-2 biology. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the sophisticated strategies employed by SARS-CoV-2 to bypass the host antiviral defense systems is needed. One of these strategies is the inhibition of the Ras GTPase-activating protein-binding protein (GAP SH3-binding protein or G3BP)-dependent host immune response by the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein. This inhibition disrupts the formation of stress granules (SGs), which are crucial for antiviral defense. By preventing SG formation, the virus enhances its replication and evades the host's immune response, leading to increased disease severity. Given the involvement of G3BP1 in SG formation and its ability to interact with viral proteins, along with the crucial role of the N protein in the replication of the virus, we hypothesize that these proteins may have a potential role in the pathogenesis of long COVID. Despite the current lack of direct evidence linking these proteins to long COVID, their interactions and functions suggest a possible connection that warrants further investigation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/virology/metabolism/immunology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/physiology
*Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins/metabolism
*RNA Recognition Motif Proteins/metabolism/immunology
*Poly-ADP-Ribose Binding Proteins/metabolism/immunology
*DNA Helicases/metabolism
*Phosphoproteins/metabolism
*RNA Helicases/metabolism
Virus Replication
Stress Granules/metabolism/virology
Host-Pathogen Interactions

@article {pmid40415212,
year = {2025},
author = {Moirangthem, R and Bar-On, Y},
title = {Passive Immunization in the Prevention and Treatment of Viral Infections.},
journal = {European journal of immunology},
volume = {55},
number = {5},
pages = {e202451606},
pmid = {40415212},
issn = {1521-4141},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunization, Passive/methods ; *COVID-19/immunology/therapy/prevention & control ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology/therapy/prevention & control ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology ; Animals ; *Antibodies, Viral/therapeutic use/immunology ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/immunology ; HIV-1/immunology ; },
abstract = {The basic concepts of passive immunization and the potential of antibody therapy to confer immunity against infectious diseases were introduced already in the late 19th century. This approach was also later implemented to extensively treat and prevent infections, but with the development of effective vaccines, it became restricted to only a few medical conditions such as snake bites, neutralization of toxins, and prevention of rabies infection. This has dramatically changed in the last decade, as antibodies have been widely used in the clinic for the treatment of COVID-19 and the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections. A stepping-stone for the progress in monoclonal antibody generation was the development of single-cell antibody cloning techniques that made it possible to develop effective neutralizing antibodies against highly mutable viruses such as influenza virus and HIV-1. Here, we review the use of passive immunotherapy in the clinic for treating and controlling SARS-CoV-2 and RSV infections. We further discuss key developments that have made it possible to use monoclonal antibodies against the highly mutable HIV-1 and influenza virus and advanced clinical trials designed to evaluate the efficacy of such an approach. Finally, we present recent findings that demonstrate that passive immunization can elicit long-term immunity in the host.},
}

Humans
*Immunization, Passive/methods
*COVID-19/immunology/therapy/prevention & control
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology/therapy/prevention & control
Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology
Animals
*Antibodies, Viral/therapeutic use/immunology
Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/immunology
HIV-1/immunology

@article {pmid40359339,
year = {2025},
author = {Mirkin, CA and Langer, R and Mrksich, M and Margolin, AA and Petrosko, SH and Artzi, N},
title = {Blueprints for Better Drugs: The Structural Revolution in Nanomedicine.},
journal = {ACS nano},
volume = {19},
number = {20},
pages = {18889-18901},
doi = {10.1021/acsnano.5c06380},
pmid = {40359339},
issn = {1936-086X},
mesh = {*Nanomedicine/methods ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Drug Delivery Systems ; },
abstract = {Structural nanomedicines are engineered constructs that arrange therapeutic components into well-defined architectures to maximize efficacy. Their multivalent, multifunctional design offers key advantages over unstructured formulations, including targeted delivery, expanded therapeutic windows, and enhanced target engagement. The mRNA COVID-19 vaccines exemplify their transformative potential. However, structural precision varies, and more well-defined architectures will streamline optimization, manufacturing, and regulation. Unlike small molecule drugs, nanomedicines within a batch are not identical. Identifying the most effective, least toxic structures will advance our understanding of structure-function relationships and therapeutic mechanisms. This work highlights structural nanomedicines─small molecules, nucleic acids, and biologics─to galvanize the field and drive innovation toward even safer, more effective treatments that benefit patients.},
}

*Nanomedicine/methods
Humans
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry
COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Drug Delivery Systems

@article {pmid40314667,
year = {2025},
author = {Gannamaneni, K and Mian, SI},
title = {Corneal complications of common vaccinations.},
journal = {Current opinion in ophthalmology},
volume = {36},
number = {4},
pages = {288-293},
doi = {10.1097/ICU.0000000000001146},
pmid = {40314667},
issn = {1531-7021},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; *Corneal Diseases/etiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Graft Rejection/etiology ; *Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Keratitis/etiology ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarize and evaluate the current literature concerning corneal complications associated with common vaccinations, particularly keratitis and corneal graft rejection following vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, Varicella-Zoster, and Influenza.

RECENT FINDINGS: Small case series and reports have documented keratitis/herpesvirus reactivation and corneal graft rejection following vaccination, prompting concern from ophthalmologists regarding vaccination timing and management of patients. Recent population-based studies have reported higher risks of herpesvirus keratitis and herpes zoster ophthalmicus recurrence associated with the COVID-19 and varicella zoster vaccinations in rare cases, often in patients with identified risk factors. Similarly, corneal graft rejection rates appear to be stable following vaccination when compared with unvaccinated individuals, with the bulk of vaccine-associated rejection noted to occur with penetrating keratoplasties and in patients at a higher risk for rejection.

SUMMARY: While the benefits of vaccination continue to outweigh the risks, clinicians must identify and balance patient-specific risk factors for corneal complications to inform individual management and counseling, potentially with heightened steroid use in the postvaccination period and more stringent follow up for signs of keratitis or graft rejection.},
}

Humans
*Vaccination/adverse effects
*Corneal Diseases/etiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Graft Rejection/etiology
*Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Keratitis/etiology
Influenza, Human/prevention & control

@article {pmid39973309,
year = {2025},
author = {Beck, E and Georgieva, M and Wang, WJ and Gomez-Lievano, A and Wang, H and Gao, Y and Kopel, H and Bausch-Jurken, M and Patterson-Lomba, O and Mu, F and Wu, E and Van de Velde, N},
title = {Indirect comparison of the relative vaccine effectiveness of mRNA-1283 vs. BNT162b2 vaccines against symptomatic COVID-19 among US adults.},
journal = {Current medical research and opinion},
volume = {41},
number = {4},
pages = {721-732},
doi = {10.1080/03007995.2025.2466726},
pmid = {39973309},
issn = {1473-4877},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/immunology ; *BNT162 Vaccine ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; United States/epidemiology ; *2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/immunology ; Adult ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 continues to pose a significant health burden, particularly among older adults. mRNA-1283 is a next-generation COVID-19 mRNA vaccine developed to enhance immune response. Findings from the Phase 3 NextCOVE trial comparing bivalent versions of mRNA-1273 and mRNA-1283 vaccines have recently become available. However, there are no head-to-head trials comparing mRNA-1283 and the BNT162b2 vaccine.

OBJECTIVE: To indirectly compare the effectiveness of mRNA-1283 and BNT162b2 against symptomatic COVID-19 among adults in the US.

METHODS: A targeted literature review was conducted to identify relevant studies comparing the mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 bivalent vaccines. A real-world evidence (RWE) study by Kopel et al. (2023) assessing the relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) of mRNA-1273 vs. BNT162b2 was selected for an indirect treatment comparison (ITC) against the NextCOVE trial using the Bucher method. Analyses were stratified by age group and sensitivity analyses were conducted using alternative outcome definitions.

RESULTS: Despite differences between NextCOVE and the Kopel study, comparability assessments supported a robust ITC. Among participants ≥18 years of age, the indirect rVE of mRNA-1283 vs. BNT162b2 against symptomatic COVID-19 was 15.3% (95% CI = 4.7-24.8%, p = 0.006). For adults ≥65 years of age, the rVE was 22.8% (95% CI = 3.7-38.1%, p = 0.022). Sensitivity analyses with alternative outcome definitions supported these estimates.

CONCLUSION: This analysis provides consistent and statistically significant evidence indicating the next-generation mRNA-1283 vaccine is more effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 than BNT162b2, with the largest effect in individuals aged ≥65. Consistent results across sensitivity analyses underscore the robustness of the findings, offering important evidence to inform vaccination decisions by policymakers, providers, and payers.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/immunology
*BNT162 Vaccine
*Vaccine Efficacy
United States/epidemiology
*2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/immunology
Adult
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Aged
Middle Aged

@article {pmid39946209,
year = {2025},
author = {Hoskins, K and Montgomery, M and Griffith, A and Pollard, H and Orr-Roderick, D and Schmick, D and Strausman, J and Wade, S and Robertson, M and DeArmond, M},
title = {Trends in osteopathic medical education: a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of osteopathic medicine},
volume = {125},
number = {6},
pages = {277-283},
pmid = {39946209},
issn = {2702-3648},
mesh = {*Osteopathic Medicine/education/trends ; Humans ; *Education, Medical, Graduate/trends ; United States ; *Education, Medical, Undergraduate/trends ; },
abstract = {CONTEXT: Following the transition to a single graduate medical education (GME) accreditation system in 2020, leaders at American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) were interested in learning more about the research being done about osteopathic medical education leading up to that point in time.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this scoping review was to identify trends in undergraduate and graduate osteopathic medical education and to determine where this information was being disseminated and the institutions who were creating the content.

METHODS: Searches were conducted in eight databases: PubMed (National Center for Biotechnology Information [NCBI]), MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature ([CINAHL], EBSCO), Education Research Complete (EBSCO) OSTMED.DR, Education Resources Information Center ([ERIC], Ovid), and Scopus (Elsevier). Gray literature sources were also identified. All 10 authors were involved in the search. Search terms were identified by utilizing Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), the Yale MeSH Analyzer, and through consultation with an expert searcher. Sources were excluded if they were not in English, were based outside of the United States, did not fit in the date range of being published between 2010 and 2020, and included information on COVID-19. The research team conducted title/abstract screening based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS: A total of 8,083 articles were identified and included through searches, ending in a total of 1,203 articles after full-text screening. Most sources for this osteopathic medical education review were journal articles (n=505) and conference proceedings (n=482). A total of 23 trends were identified, with the top three being residency (n=318), curriculum (n=235), and pedagogy (n=178). None of the other 23 primary trends were above 6.9 %.

CONCLUSIONS: Osteopathic medical education trends from 2010 to 2020 were primarily focused on residency, curriculum, and pedagogy. This information was disseminated evenly between published journal articles and conference presentations, and osteopathic institutions that have existed longer and have established research track records were more likely to publish and share information in this area.},
}

*Osteopathic Medicine/education/trends
Humans
*Education, Medical, Graduate/trends
United States
*Education, Medical, Undergraduate/trends

@article {pmid39260400,
year = {2025},
author = {Benemei, S and Gatto, F and Marcucci, R and Gresele, P},
title = {Emerging Thrombotic Disorders Associated with Virus-Based Innovative Therapies: From VITT to AAV Gene Therapy-Related Thrombotic Microangiopathy.},
journal = {Thrombosis and haemostasis},
volume = {125},
number = {6},
pages = {513-522},
doi = {10.1055/a-2413-4345},
pmid = {39260400},
issn = {2567-689X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Genetic Therapy/adverse effects/methods ; *Dependovirus/genetics ; *Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology/therapy/diagnosis ; *Genetic Vectors/adverse effects ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Thrombosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Gene therapy is a promising therapeutic approach for treating life-threatening disorders. Despite the clinical improvements observed with gene therapy, immune responses either innate or adaptive against the vector used for gene delivery, can affect treatment efficacy and lead to adverse reactions. Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and small vessel occlusion known to be elicited by several drugs, that has been recently reported as an adverse event of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy. TMA encompasses a heterogenous group of disorders, its classification and underlining mechanisms are still uncertain, and still lacks validated biomarkers. The identification of predictors of TMA, such as vector dose and patient characteristics, is a pressing need to recognize patients at risk before and after AAV-based gene therapy administration. This review aims to explore the literature on TMA associated with AAV-based gene therapy in the larger context of TMA (i.e., hemolytic-uremic syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, and other drug-related TMAs). Considering the wide attention recently gained by another TTS associated with a non-gene therapy viral platform (adenovirus, AV COVID-19 vaccine), namely vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT), AAV gene therapy-related TMA mechanisms will be discussed and differentiated from those of VITT to avoid recency bias and favor a correct positioning of these two recently emerged syndromes within the heterogenous group of drug-related TTS. Finally, the review will discuss strategies for enhancing the safety and optimize the management of AAV-based gene therapy that is emerging as an efficacious therapeutic option for disparate, severe, and often orphan conditions.},
}

Humans
*Genetic Therapy/adverse effects/methods
*Dependovirus/genetics
*Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology/therapy/diagnosis
*Genetic Vectors/adverse effects
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Thrombosis
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40414639,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, AK and Sudhan, YG and Ramakrishna, R and Durairajan, SSK},
title = {Viral agents in neuromuscular pathology.},
journal = {International review of neurobiology},
volume = {180},
number = {},
pages = {397-434},
doi = {10.1016/bs.irn.2025.04.007},
pmid = {40414639},
issn = {2162-5514},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuromuscular Diseases/virology/therapy/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Virus Diseases/complications/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {In recent years, viral infections have been increasingly identified as major players in neuromuscular pathologies. This chapter presents an overview of the evidence and future directions for virus-induced neuromuscular disorders. Information is integrated on the global burden of these diseases related to epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive strategies was integrated. Responsible viruses include enteroviruses, flaviviruses, herpesviruses, and emerging pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2. It represents a broad spectrum of neuromuscular disorders, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, viral myositis, and critical illness neuropathy/myopathy. The book chapter discusses different diagnostic approaches, therapy strategies, and rehabilitation methods, in addition to early intervention and preventive measures. This has led to new insights into novel therapies, unmet research needs, and future perspectives on viral neuromuscular disorders. This chapter demonstrates that supporting both clinical care and patient management with clinical research entails a profound understanding of the difficult interactions between the viruses concerned and the neuromuscular system.},
}

Humans
*Neuromuscular Diseases/virology/therapy/diagnosis
*COVID-19/complications
*Virus Diseases/complications/therapy
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40413978,
year = {2025},
author = {Braconi, L and Sosic, A and Crocetti, L},
title = {Recent breakthroughs in synthetic small molecules targeting SARS-CoV-2 M[pro] from 2022 to 2024.},
journal = {Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry},
volume = {128},
number = {},
pages = {118247},
doi = {10.1016/j.bmc.2025.118247},
pmid = {40413978},
issn = {1464-3391},
abstract = {Among the identified targets for developing anti-coronavirus therapies, SARS-CoV-2 M[pro] stands out as one of the most promising due to its crucial role in viral replication and its low mutability across various coronaviruses, making it a potential broad-spectrum target. Currently, although the approved drugs targeting M[pro] are peptidomimetic inhibitors with an adequate efficacy, they exhibit relatively poor pharmacokinetic properties commonly associated with peptide-based compounds. On the contrary, using non-peptidic small-molecules M[pro] inhibitors can offer many advantages, including reduced off-target toxicity, improved metabolic stability and drug-like properties more appropriate for oral administration. This topic has sparked interest in the scientific community, leading to the publication of numerous studies in recent years. In this review, we summarize the most recent progress over the past two years in the identification and development of synthetic small-molecule inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 M[pro].},
}

@article {pmid40413366,
year = {2025},
author = {Nair, AS and Tauro, L and Joshi, HB and Makhal, A and Sobczak, T and Goret, J and Dewitte, A and Kaveri, S and Chakrapani, H and Matsuda, MM and Joshi, MB},
title = {Influence of homocysteine on regulating immunothrombosis: mechanisms and therapeutic potential in management of infections.},
journal = {Inflammation research : official journal of the European Histamine Research Society ... [et al.]},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {86},
pmid = {40413366},
issn = {1420-908X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Homocysteine/metabolism/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology ; Animals ; *Thrombosis/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Sepsis/immunology ; },
abstract = {Mechanisms controlling innate immune responses and coagulation are interdependent, evolutionarily entangled and make a complex network to form immuno-thrombosis axis which is an integral part of host-defence response. During infections, immunothrombosis generates intravascular scaffold enabling recognition, trap and destruction of pathogens facilitating tissue integrity. However, the accompanying dysregulation fosters into pathologies associated with thrombosis and regulates severity, morbidity and mortality in infections. Several extrinsic and intrinsic factors such as (epi)genetic mechanisms, age, metabolism and lifestyle regulate immunothrombosis during infections. Mounting evidence demonstrates that homocysteine, a metabolic intermediate of methionine synthesis pathway activate cells participating in immuno-thrombosis such as neutrophils, platelets, monocytes and endothelial cells. Interestingly, multiple infections are significantly associated with perturbed homocysteine metabolism. In the present review, we describe mechanistic insights into how homocysteine drives immuno-thrombotic crosstalk that generate a vicious cycle of inflammation and coagulation that fuels organ failure during infections with an emphasis on sepsis, COVID-19, and other infectious diseases caused by parasites, viral, and bacterial pathogens. Subsequently, we discuss therapeutic strategies targeting homocysteine metabolism that may improve clinical outcomes in infections.},
}

Humans
*Homocysteine/metabolism/immunology
COVID-19/immunology
Animals
*Thrombosis/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Sepsis/immunology

@article {pmid40413212,
year = {2025},
author = {Akingbola, A and Adegbesan, A and Adegoke, K and Idahor, C and Mariaria, P and Peters, F and Salami, RA and Ojo, O and Nwaeze, E and Abdullahi, O and Chuku, J},
title = {Comparing Moderna's mRNA-1083 and Pfizer's dual-target mRNA vaccines for influenza and COVID-19.},
journal = {NPJ vaccines},
volume = {10},
number = {1},
pages = {105},
pmid = {40413212},
issn = {2059-0105},
abstract = {This review examines Moderna's mRNA-1083 and Pfizer/BioNTech's mRNA-1020/1030 dual-target vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza. Both utilize mRNA technology, demonstrating strong immunogenicity and favorable safety profiles. Moderna's mRNA-1083 showed superior immune responses, while Pfizer's mRNA-1020/1030 performed well but was slightly less effective against influenza B. These vaccines simplify immunization strategies, enhance protection, and emphasize the need for global vaccine equity to prevent future outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid40412913,
year = {2025},
author = {DeMasi, M and Bujold, L},
title = {Effect of the Covid Pandemic on Women's Health.},
journal = {Primary care},
volume = {52},
number = {2},
pages = {371-382},
doi = {10.1016/j.pop.2025.01.009},
pmid = {40412913},
issn = {1558-299X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Female ; *Women's Health ; United States/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted all spheres of the lives of women. This article focuses on the impact on the health, careers, and family lives of women in the United States. There is a lasting impact from COVID-19 on the lives and health of women. Preventative care and chronic care were disrupted. Long covid seems to impact premenopausal women at much higher rates than men. Time spent between work and home changed for many during the pandemic. Women shifted to more time spent on home duties. The long-term outcome of career advancement and economic success is unknown.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Female
*Women's Health
United States/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40412334,
year = {2025},
author = {Rahimi, HK and Jasim, AA and Rezahosseini, O and Harboe, ZB},
title = {Immunogenicity and adverse effects of pneumococcal vaccines co-administered with influenza or SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in adults: A systematic review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {59},
number = {},
pages = {127293},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127293},
pmid = {40412334},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the immunogenicity and adverse effects (AEs) of co-administration of pneumococcal vaccines with influenza or SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

METHODS: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google for studies published from January 1, 1950, to October 20, 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies were included. Pooled geometric mean titer (GMT) ratios per serotype and risk ratios (RR) for AEs were calculated in the meta-analyses.

RESULTS: Of 752 search hits, 17 studies were included, consisting of 14 RCTs and three non-randomized studies. One study investigated PCV20 and SARS-CoV-2 vaccine co-administration and found it safe and immunogenic. Six studies examined PPV23 and influenza vaccine co-administration, showing lower immunogenicity for some serotypes but non-inferior to single administration. A meta-analysis of studies on PCV and influenza vaccines showed significantly reduced pooled GMT ratios for several serotypes, with serotype 1 (pooled GMT ratio = 0.74, 95 % CI: [0.63, 0.87]) and 6 A (pooled GMT ratio = 0.78, 95 % CI: [0.71, 0.85]) having the lowest ratios. For AEs, PCV co-administration resulted in a 15 % increase in risk for myalgia/arthralgia (RR: 1.15, 95 % CI: 1.04-1.27) and a 34 % increase for headache (RR: 1.34, 95 % CI: 1.14-1.57). Eight studies were rated as having a moderate or severe risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS: In adults, co-administration of pneumococcal vaccines with influenza or SARS-CoV-2 vaccines is non-inferior to single-administration; however, it can increase mild-moderate systemic AEs. Data is scarce, and further studies are needed on immunocompromised adults.},
}

@article {pmid40412331,
year = {2025},
author = {Gandhi, K and Vijay, Y and Page, K and Dahari, H and Gutfraind, A},
title = {Challenges in coverage of future hepatitis C vaccines: Review and potential solutions.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {59},
number = {},
pages = {127256},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127256},
pmid = {40412331},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Motivated by the high mortality burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and the unprecedented rapid development of the COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, we note that a prompt HCV vaccine rollout may streamline the World Health Organization's goal to eliminate HCV before 2030. While progress in the development of HCV vaccine candidates has rapidly flourished, vaccine hesitancy and HCV incidence are both particularly prevalent in people who inject drugs (PWID). The aim of this paper is to document several potential challenges in HCV vaccine uptake and provide a set of preliminary recommendations for public and community health professionals to improve acceptance.

METHODS: We conducted a forward-looking integrative narrative review and identified relevant articles from PubMed. We survey literature discussing barriers to vaccine acceptance in past rollouts (e.g., COVID-19, hepatitis B) and barriers to HCV management, particularly in PWID.

RESULTS: Six key challenges were identified: (1) structural and social barriers affecting PWID, (2) vaccine safety, efficacy, and relevance concerns, (3) multiple-dose attrition and vaccine fatigue, (4) media presentation and misinformation, (5) awareness and attitude towards infection, and (6) information framing and primary care linkage. Four possible recommendations were also identified: (1) vaccine promotion in targeted educational and outreach campaigns, (2) community-level support programs integrated with vaccine rollout, (3) rollout of a pan-genotypic, multivalent, or combination vaccine, and (4) cost-benefit analysis supporting the vaccine.

CONCLUSION: This forward-looking paper offers several recommendations to address potential gaps in HCV vaccination-from linkage with syringe exchange programs to economic analysis of vaccination program costs.},
}

@article {pmid40412200,
year = {2025},
author = {Tonutti, A and Motta, F and Isailovic, N and Selmi, C and Timilsina, S and Eric Gershwin, M and De Santis, M},
title = {Mechanistic considerations linking SARS-CoV-2 infection, inflammation, and the loss of immune tolerance.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {95},
number = {},
pages = {102567},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102567},
pmid = {40412200},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {The immune response to SARS-CoV-2 has been implicated in the onset of multiple, seemingly unrelated, autoimmune diseases. The immune response to SARS-CoV-2 has also been implicated in the unmasking and/or production of multiple autoantibodies, even in the absence of clinical disease. Despite such data, it remains unclear whether antibodies targeting antiviral signaling proteins and mitochondrial antigens reflect bystander activation or alternatively contribute to de novo viral immune escape mechanisms. With these comments in mind, a variety of professional antibody presenting cells and including lung resident macrophages of COVID-19 infected patients are impacted and dependent on the uptake of antibody-opsonized virus by Fcγ receptors; yet infection is aborted via antibody-dependent effector mechanisms or pyroptosis, possibly leading to autoantibody production, and autoinflammatory manifestations, respectively. TRIM21/Ro52, a cytosolic E3-ubiquitin ligase with an Fc-gamma receptor domain, functions as an intracytoplasmic antibody receptor, directs immune complexes binding virions but also autoantigens to autophagy. During autophagy, Ig-virions-TRIM21/Ro52-autoantigens complexes bind directly to class II human leukocyte antigen in lysosomal compartment, leading to subsequent presentation on the cell surface. This process favors the development of a specific humoral immune response but has the potential to lead to loss of tolerance. Interestingly, TRIM21/Ro52 can also contribute to pyroptosis. We propose that TRIM21/Ro52 is well-placed at the crossroad between the inflammatory response and clinical autoimmunity.},
}

@article {pmid40411467,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, X and Zhong, L and Zhang, W and Wu, P and Wang, M and Li, D and Dong, L and Wang, G},
title = {CRISPR Digital Sensing: From Micronano-Collaborative Chip to Biomolecular Detection.},
journal = {ACS nano},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsnano.5c03474},
pmid = {40411467},
issn = {1936-086X},
abstract = {The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) sensing technology proved to be valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic through its sensitivity, specificity, robustness, and versatility. However, issues such as overreliance on amplification, susceptibility to false positives, lack of quantification strategies, and complex operation procedures have hindered its broader application in bioanalysis and clinical diagnostics. The collision between micronano-collaborative chips and CRISPR technology has effectively addressed these bottlenecks, offering innovative solutions for diagnosis and treatment. Unlike conventional micronano chips, micronano digital chips enhance CRISPR's response to trace amounts of target molecules by leveraging highly controllable local environments and compartmentalized microreactors. This advancement improves detection efficiency and revolutionizes traditional in vitro bioanalytical processes. First, the working principles, fabrication techniques, and performance metrics of CRISPR-based digital droplet microfluidics and microarray chips are examined. Then, the applications of CRISPR digital sensing chips in bioassays are reviewed, emphasizing their importance in advancing in vitro detection systems for gene editing. Finally, the prospects of CRISPR digital sensing technology are explored, particularly its potential for body surface biomonitoring and its broader development opportunities in the biomedical field.},
}

@article {pmid40411153,
year = {2025},
author = {Patel, V and Korsun, M and Cervia, JS},
title = {EXPRESS: Protective Effects of Booster Dose of SARS-COV-2 Vaccination Against Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of investigative medicine : the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10815589251346963},
doi = {10.1177/10815589251346963},
pmid = {40411153},
issn = {1708-8267},
abstract = {The global impact of COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has extended beyond acute infection, with Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS) affecting an estimated 10% of recovered individuals. PACS manifests a range of debilitating symptoms, including fatigue, cognitive impairment, and gastrointestinal issues. While vaccination has proven effective in mitigating severe COVID-19 outcomes, the role of booster doses in preventing PACS remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate whether COVID-19 booster vaccinations reduce the incidence and severity of PACS in individuals with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in adherence to PRISMA guidelines. Databases PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were searched for peer-reviewed studies published in English from January 2020-August 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed RCTs, prospective cohort studies, and case-control studies comparing PACS prevalence between booster recipients and non-recipients. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tool. Data synthesis included pooled prevalence estimates and narrative analyses. Of 849 identified studies, 22 met inclusion criteria, with 12 providing complete data for meta-analysis. Among 38,718 participants, a trend toward lower PACS prevalence was observed in booster recipients (RR: 0.66; 95%-CI: 0.41 - 1.09), though heterogeneity (I[2] = 98%) limited statistical significance. Risk of bias analysis classified most studies as low or moderate risk, with two high-risk studies reporting higher PACS rates in boosted individuals. This study suggests a potential protective effect of booster vaccinations against PACS, though findings were not statistically significant. Further research with larger, standardized cohorts is essential to validate these observations and guide vaccination strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40410684,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, N and Segovia, D and Kumar, P and Atti, HB and Kumar, S and Mishra, J},
title = {Mucosal implications of oral Jak3-targeted drugs in COVID patients.},
journal = {Molecular medicine (Cambridge, Mass.)},
volume = {31},
number = {1},
pages = {203},
pmid = {40410684},
issn = {1528-3658},
mesh = {Humans ; *Janus Kinase 3/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Janus Kinase Inhibitors/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Administration, Oral ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {The JAK family, particularly JAK3, plays a crucial role in immune signaling and inflammatory responses. Dysregulated JAK3 activation in SARS-CoV-2 infections has been associated with severe inflammation and respiratory complications, making JAK inhibitors a viable therapeutic option. However, their use raises concerns regarding immunosuppression, which could increase susceptibility to secondary infections. While long-term adverse effects are less of a concern in acute COVID-19 treatment, patient selection and monitoring remain critical. Furthermore, adverse effects associated with oral JAK3 inhibitors necessitate the exploration of alternative strategies to optimize therapeutic efficacy while minimizing risks. This review highlights the role of JAK3 in immune and epithelial cells, examines the adverse effects of oral JAK3 inhibitors in COVID-19 and other treatments, and discusses alternative therapeutic strategies for improving patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Janus Kinase 3/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Janus Kinase Inhibitors/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Administration, Oral
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects

@article {pmid40409874,
year = {2025},
author = {, and Batra, K and Walker, CM and Little, BP and Bang, TJ and Bartel, TB and Brixey, AG and Christensen, JD and Cox, CW and Hanak, M and Khurana, S and Madan, R and Merchant, N and Moore, WH and Pandya, S and Sanchez, LD and Shroff, GS and Zagurovskaya, M and Chung, JH},
title = {ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Acute Respiratory Illness in Immunocompetent Patients: 2024 Update.},
journal = {Journal of the American College of Radiology : JACR},
volume = {22},
number = {5S},
pages = {S14-S35},
doi = {10.1016/j.jacr.2025.02.014},
pmid = {40409874},
issn = {1558-349X},
mesh = {Humans ; Acute Disease ; United States ; *Immunocompetence ; Societies, Medical ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/diagnostic imaging ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; },
abstract = {Acute respiratory illness is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality amongst infectious diseases worldwide and a major public health issue. Even though most cases are due to self-limited viral infections, a significant number of cases are due to more serious respiratory infections where delay in diagnosis can lead to morbidity and mortality. Imaging plays a key role in the initial diagnosis and management of acute respiratory illness. This document reviews the current literature concerning the appropriate role of imaging in the diagnosis and management of the immunocompetent adult patient initially presenting with acute respiratory illness. Imaging recommendations for adults presenting with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations are discussed. Finally, guidelines for follow-up imaging in suspected pneumonia cases to ensure occult malignancy is not overlooked. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or intermediate, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.},
}

Humans
Acute Disease
United States
*Immunocompetence
Societies, Medical
*Respiratory Tract Infections/diagnostic imaging
Evidence-Based Medicine

@article {pmid40409813,
year = {2025},
author = {Pomin, VH and Zhang, F and Dordick, JS},
title = {Role, binding properties, and potential therapeutical use of glycosaminoglycans and mimetics in SARS-CoV-2 infection. In memory of Dr. Robert Linhardt (1953-2025).},
journal = {Carbohydrate polymers},
volume = {362},
number = {},
pages = {123703},
doi = {10.1016/j.carbpol.2025.123703},
pmid = {40409813},
issn = {1879-1344},
mesh = {*Glycosaminoglycans/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry/metabolism ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19/virology ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; History, 20th Century ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; History, 21st Century ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Dr. Robert Linhardt was a prolific scientist who paved the way for understanding the key aspects of structure, function, synthesis, mechanisms of action, and potential therapeutic use of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). His contribution to the field of Glycobiology for over 40 years led to an incredible legacy in terms of mentorship, publication, and research accomplishment. Sorrowfully, he succumbed to a rare case of spinal cancer aggravated by a SARS-CoV-2 infection at the beginning of 2025. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Linhardt published approximately 20 groundbreaking scientific articles unraveling the role, mechanism of action, virus binding properties, and potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 use of GAGs. In honor of the extraordinary contribution of Dr. Robert Linhardt in the fields of GAGs and SARS-CoV2, we review herein the main scientific achievements of his set of published works on the topic, after presenting a biography of this renowned glycoscientist.},
}

*Glycosaminoglycans/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry/metabolism
Humans
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19/virology
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
History, 20th Century
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
History, 21st Century
Pandemics

@article {pmid40409475,
year = {2025},
author = {Dermitzakis, I and Theotokis, P and Delilampou, E and Axarloglou, E and Gouta, C and Manthou, ME and Meditskou, S and Miliaras, D},
title = {The impact of infections and genetics on secondary sex ratio.},
journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases},
volume = {132},
number = {},
pages = {105770},
doi = {10.1016/j.meegid.2025.105770},
pmid = {40409475},
issn = {1567-7257},
abstract = {The secondary sex ratio (SSR), which reflects the proportion of male to female offspring at birth, is influenced by a complex interplay of multiple factors. This review delves into the current understanding of how infections and genetics contribute to variations in the SSR. The effects of infections on the SSR represent an intriguing intersection of biology and epidemiology. Research indicates that several infectious diseases, such as toxoplasmosis, coronavirus disease 2019, Spanish flu, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and tuberculosis, can impact the SSR through mechanisms that are only partially understood. Genetics are also scrutinized in this review. Although their involvement in determining the SSR is debatable, various genetic factors have been studied. The influences of the Rhesus D heterozygous phenotype, major histocompatibility complex, corticosteroid-binding globulin deficiency, ethnicity, and consanguinity on SSR have been delineated. By amalgamating findings from diverse disciplines, this review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted impact of infections and genetics on SSR, pinpointing potential implications for reproductive biology and public health.},
}

@article {pmid39370147,
year = {2025},
author = {Schukow, CP and Allen, TC},
title = {A New Generation of Pathologists: Addressing Modern Curriculum and Educational Scholarship for Pathology Educators and Trainees After the End of the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Archives of pathology & laboratory medicine},
volume = {149},
number = {6},
pages = {578-588},
doi = {10.5858/arpa.2024-0114-RA},
pmid = {39370147},
issn = {1543-2165},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Curriculum ; *Education, Distance/methods ; *Pathologists/education ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pathology/education ; Pandemics ; *Pathology, Clinical/education ; Fellowships and Scholarships ; },
abstract = {CONTEXT.—: The COVID-19 pandemic irreversibly altered the pathology education landscape. It exacerbated workforce shortages, restricted in-person activities, and highlighted critical means in curricula evaluation to limit the expansion of medical knowledge gaps in postpandemic society. Training enacted swift changes toward online learning (e-learning) practices to minimize potential deficiencies in pathology education. Today, a breadth of widely available online pathology curricular tools, including e-learning and digital pathology, are increasingly being used by medical students, trainees, and pathologists worldwide.

OBJECTIVE.—: To critically address the continued role of e-learning and digital pathology in postpandemic pathology education and scholarship, as a current paucity of literature exists and lingering workflow effects of this pandemic affecting many anatomic and clinical pathology departments globally persist.

DATA SOURCES.—: A qualitative review of relevant literature is synthesized to create a timely, narrative discussion to bridge this literature gap. Peer-reviewed sources and other original or primary documents will be assessed.

CONCLUSIONS.—: Because of the subjective nature of curricular development and defining what constitutes scholarship, no widely established consensus is present, though it has been touched on in previous literature. It may be years until we better understand how e-learning and digital pathology shape curricular practices, scholarship production, and patient-care delivery, though recent studies support sustained blended curricula beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. The education landscape continues to become increasingly digitalized, and infrastructures may soon be able to support complete digital pathology practice as the education norm. Future and theoretical insight for pathology and laboratory departments globally are provided.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Curriculum
*Education, Distance/methods
*Pathologists/education
SARS-CoV-2
*Pathology/education
Pandemics
*Pathology, Clinical/education
Fellowships and Scholarships

@article {pmid40407658,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, SO and Nanda, N},
title = {Long COVID: A Systematic Review of Preventive Strategies.},
journal = {Infectious disease reports},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40407658},
issn = {2036-7430},
abstract = {Background: Since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in December 2019, long COVID (LC) has become a significant global health burden. While knowledge about LC is accumulating, studies on its prevention are still lacking. Methods: We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to investigate prevention options for LC. We identified fifteen articles on vaccines, seven on antivirals, and six on other interventions after searching for articles in the PubMed/MEDLINE database using the MeSH terms. Results: Most vaccine-related studies demonstrated a protective effect of COVID-19 vaccines against developing LC. Our review found an equivocal effect of antivirals, while metformin had a protective effect in outpatients and corticosteroids were protective in hospitalized patients against LC. Conversely, COVID-19 convalescent plasma and multiple micronutrient supplement did not confer any protection against LC. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccination is vital as it not only prevents COVID-19 but also reduces the severity of illness and may help prevent LC. Further studies are warranted to shed light on preventive strategies for long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid40407551,
year = {2025},
author = {Alexatou, O and Papadopoulou, SK and Mentzelou, M and Deligiannidou, GE and Dakanalis, A and Giaginis, C},
title = {Exploring the Impact of Emotional Eating Among University Students: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {40407551},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {Humans ; *Students/psychology ; Universities ; *Emotions ; COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Feeding Behavior/psychology ; Quality of Life ; *Eating/psychology ; Mental Health ; Anxiety/psychology ; Stress, Psychological/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Depression/psychology ; Emotional Eating ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Emotional eating has been considered as a trend to consume energy concentrated and tasty foods in response to adverse emotions. Emotional eating may harmfully influence physical and mental health among university students, worsening their daily quality of life and their academic performance. The aim of the present study is to critically summarize and analyze the currently available clinical data concerning the impact of emotional eating among university students.

METHODS: Comprehensive exploration of the currently available scientific literature was performed in the most precise scientific databases, utilizing relevant and representative keywords.

RESULTS: More than a few interrelationships were found between emotional eating and body mass index, physical activity, depression, anxiety, stress, social media overuse, nutritional behaviors, and COVID-19 lockdown concerning university students.

CONCLUSIONS: The currently available clinical studies support evidence that there are significant intercorrelations between emotional eating and several aspects of physical and mental health of university students. However, most of them have a cross-sectional design that cannot establish causality effects. In this respect, prospective surveys are strongly required to delineate the impact of emotional eating in the daily life of university students.},
}

Humans
*Students/psychology
Universities
*Emotions
COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Feeding Behavior/psychology
Quality of Life
*Eating/psychology
Mental Health
Anxiety/psychology
Stress, Psychological/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Depression/psychology
Emotional Eating

@article {pmid40406976,
year = {2025},
author = {Agyei-Manu, E and Atkins, N and Nundy, M and St-Jean, C and Gornall-Wick, A and Birley, E and De Silva, U and Krishan, P and Vokey, L and Dozier, MF and McSwiggan, E and McQuillan, R and Theodoratou, E and Shi, T and , },
title = {Characteristics of influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV surveillance systems that utilise ICD-coded data: a systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {04177},
pmid = {40406976},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; *International Classification of Diseases ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology ; *Population Surveillance/methods ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Some surveillance systems for influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) utilise International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-coded data and are useful for analysing trends and enhancing quick, evidence-based decisions against the epidemic potential that threatens global health security. With variations in the design of systems globally, the World Health Organization requested a systematic review to identify key characteristics of influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV surveillance systems that utilise ICD-coded data, and to assess their performance.

METHODS: We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Global Health to identify relevant studies reporting on influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV surveillance systems that use ICD-coded data. We independently assessed studies for the ICD codes used, their statistical estimates and limitations. We appraised included studies using Joana Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tools and synthesised using narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: We identified 77 studies, reporting on 71 surveillance systems - 33 systems recorded surveillance data only, 15 systems recorded burden of disease data only, and 23 systems recorded both surveillance and burden of disease data. Surveillance systems utilised ICD-10 codes (75%), ICD-9 codes (22%), or both (3%). ICD-10 codes J09 and J10 were frequently used for influenza, U07.1 for COVID-19, and B97.4, J12.1, J20.5, and J21.0 for RSV. ICD-9 codes 487 and 488 were mostly used for influenza, and codes 466.11 and 480.1 for RSV. ICD-10 codes had low-to-moderate sensitivity (6.60-79.87%) and high specificity (97.40-99.72%) for influenza, low-to-high sensitivity (30.00-98.4%) and specificity (39.50-99.80%) for COVID-19, and low-to-high sensitivity (6.00-99.80%) and specificity (12.10-100.00%) for RSV. ICD-9 codes had low sensitivity (45.60%) and high specificity (97.90%) for influenza. Underestimation of infections or mortality attributable to influenza, SARS-CoV-2, or RSV is a major limitation to using ICD-coded data across surveillance systems.

CONCLUSIONS: The performance of ICD codes for syndromic- or disease-specific surveillance remains inconclusive, although using only ICD-coded data within these systems may underestimate influenza, SARS-CoV-2, or RSV-attributable morbidity and mortality. Future studies should assess the accuracy of ICD code combinations for surveillance of influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology
*International Classification of Diseases
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology
*Population Surveillance/methods
Global Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40406515,
year = {2025},
author = {Muñoz-Carrillo, JL and Palomeque-Molina, PI and Villacis-Valencia, MS and Gutiérrez-Coronado, O and Chávez-Ruvalcaba, F and Vázquez-Alcaraz, SJ and Villalobos-Gutiérrez, PT and Palomeque-Molina, J},
title = {Relationship between periodontitis, type 2 diabetes mellitus and COVID-19 disease: a narrative review.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1527217},
pmid = {40406515},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/immunology ; *Periodontitis/complications/epidemiology ; Comorbidity ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {Inflammation plays a fundamental role in the development and bidirectional association of di-verse diseases, such as periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which generates important clinical complications, where chronic exposure to high levels of blood glucose affects the repair process of periodontal tissues. Likewise, it has been observed that comorbidity, between these two diseases, influences the development of the COVID-19 disease towards a more severe course. However, there is currently very little scientific evidence on the relationship between periodontitis, T2DM and COVID-19 disease. This narrative review aims to provide an understanding of the current and most relevant aspects of the relationship between periodontitis, T2DM and COVID-19 disease. A narrative review was performed through a systematic search of published studies, without date restrictions, indexed in the electronic databases of PubMed, for the inclusion of articles in English, and LILACS for the inclusion of articles in Spanish. This review included different articles, which addressed the most important aspects to present a current perspective on the relationship and influence between periodontitis, T2DM and COVID-19 disease. Comorbidity between periodontitis and T2DM represents a greater risk of developing a more severe course of COVID-19 disease, because these three diseases share three important axes: a clinicopathological axis; an axis associated with glycemia, and an immunological axis associated with inflammation.},
}

Humans
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/immunology
*Periodontitis/complications/epidemiology
Comorbidity
SARS-CoV-2
Inflammation

@article {pmid40406494,
year = {2025},
author = {Yin, C and Xu, M and Zong, Z},
title = {Advances in the prevalence and treatment of depression for adolescents: a review.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1574574},
pmid = {40406494},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Depression is a psychological condition in adolescents caused by various factors. Many serious consequences can be associated with depression, such as irritability, emotional instability, and suicide. Meanwhile, the incidence of depression and suicide among adolescents was also affected during the pandemic of COVID-19 in 2019. This phenomenon of adolescent depression should be drawn extensive concern by the community, which affects their physical and mental health.

MAIN BODY: This review describes the epidemiology, high-risk factors, and treatment of adolescent depression. The onset of depression is probably attributable to preterm birth, growth environment, genetic. We also identify that the COVID-19 pandemic, initiated in late 2019,affects adolescent mental health. Antidepressants and psychotherapy are conventional treatments for depressive disorders. However, it is controversial whether antidepressants are as effective and safer as psychotherapy, and a combination of the two could provide more benefit to this population than antidepressants alone. We also summarize some antidepressants developed for novel targets. Improving the efficacy and safety of treatment to reduce the suicide rate among adolescents is the primary goal of clinical research. Existing treatment modalities and drugs are not sufficient to achieve clinical demands, so that new therapeutic targets will be promising for such patients.

CONCLUSION: A variety of factors can contribute to depression in adolescents. Adolescent depression should be mainly treated with non-pharmacological. A combination of guideline-recommended antidepressants should be used if uncontrolled with non-pharmacological, but adverse drug reactions and suicidal ideation should be closely monitored.},
}

@article {pmid40406131,
year = {2025},
author = {El Arab, RA and Alkhunaizi, M and Alhashem, YN and Al Khatib, A and Bubsheet, M and Hassanein, S},
title = {Artificial intelligence in vaccine research and development: an umbrella review.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1567116},
pmid = {40406131},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccinology/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines highlighted the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern vaccinology, accelerating timelines from years to months. Nevertheless, the specific roles and effectiveness of AI in accelerating and enhancing vaccine research, development, distribution, and acceptance remain dispersed across various reviews, underscoring the need for a unified synthesis.

METHODS: We conducted an umbrella review to consolidate evidence on AI's contributions to vaccine discovery, optimization, clinical testing, supply-chain logistics, and public acceptance. Five databases were systematically searched up to January 2025 for systematic, scoping, narrative, and rapid reviews, as well as meta-analyses explicitly focusing on AI in vaccine contexts. Quality assessments were performed using the ROBIS and AMSTAR 2 tools to evaluate risk of bias and methodological rigor.

RESULTS: Among the 27 reviews, traditional machine learning approaches-random forests, support vector machines, gradient boosting, and logistic regression-dominated tasks from antigen discovery and epitope prediction to supply‑chain optimization. Deep learning architectures, including convolutional and recurrent neural networks, generative adversarial networks, and variational autoencoders, proved instrumental in multiepitope vaccine design and adaptive clinical trial simulations. AI‑driven multi‑omic integration accelerated epitope mapping, shrinking discovery timelines by months, while predictive analytics optimized manufacturing workflows and supply‑chain operations (including temperature‑controlled, "cold‑chain" logistics). Sentiment analysis and conversational AI tools demonstrated promising capabilities for real‑time monitoring of public attitudes and tailored communication to address vaccine hesitancy. Nonetheless, persistent challenges emerged-data heterogeneity, algorithmic bias, limited regulatory frameworks, and ethical concerns over transparency and equity.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: These findings illustrate AI's transformative potential across the vaccine lifecycle but underscore that translating promise into practice demands five targeted action areas: robust data governance and multi‑omics consortia to harmonize and share high‑quality datasets; comprehensive regulatory and ethical frameworks featuring transparent model explainability, standardized performance metrics, and interdisciplinary ethics committees for ongoing oversight; the adoption of adaptive trial designs and manufacturing simulations that enable real‑time safety monitoring and in silico process modeling; AI‑enhanced public engagement strategies-such as routinely audited chatbots, real‑time sentiment dashboards, and culturally tailored messaging-to mitigate vaccine hesitancy; and a concerted focus on global equity and pandemic preparedness through capacity building, digital infrastructure expansion, routine bias audits, and sustained funding in low‑resource settings.

CONCLUSION: This umbrella review confirms AI's pivotal role in accelerating vaccine development, enhancing efficacy and safety, and bolstering public acceptance. Realizing these benefits requires not only investments in infrastructure and stakeholder engagement but also transparent model documentation, interdisciplinary ethics oversight, and routine algorithmic bias audits. Moreover, bridging the gap from in silico promise to real‑world impact demands large‑scale validation studies and methods that can accommodate heterogeneous evidence, ensuring AI‑driven innovations deliver equitable global health outcomes and reinforce pandemic preparedness.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccine Development/methods
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccinology/methods

@article {pmid40406115,
year = {2025},
author = {Tscherne, A and Guardado-Calvo, P and Clark, JJ and Krause, R and Krammer, F},
title = {Puumala orthohantavirus: prevalence, biology, disease, animal models and recent advances in therapeutics development and structural biology.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1575112},
pmid = {40406115},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Animals ; *Puumala virus/immunology/physiology ; Humans ; *Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome/epidemiology/virology/therapy/immunology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Prevalence ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Viral Vaccines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV) is an emerging zoonotic virus that was first discovered in the Puumala region of Finland in the early 1980s and is the primary etiological agent of nephropathia epidemica (NE), a milder form of a life-threatening disease known as hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). PUUV and other members of the Old World hantaviruses (OWHVs) predominantly circulate in rodents or insectivores across Eurasia, accounting for several thousand of reported HFRS cases every year (with many more unreported/misdiagnosed cases suspected). The rodent reservoir of PUUV is the common bank vole (Myodes (M.) glareolus), and transmission of the virus to humans occurs via inhalation of contagious aerosols and through contact with contaminated droppings or urine. Although PUUV is the subject of extensive research, due to its potential to cause severe disease outcomes in humans and its considerable economic and social impact, neither licensed vaccines nor specific antiviral treatments are available against PUUV. However, many important advancements have been made in terms of PUUV research over the last years. This included the elucidation of its glycoproteins, the discovery of broadly neutralizing hantavirus antibodies as therapeutic candidates and expanded research on the mRNA vaccine technology which will likely enable the development of strong PUUV vaccine candidates in the near future. Currently, there is still a lack of suitable animal models for the preclinical evaluation of experimental vaccines and antivirals, which hampers vaccine and antiviral development. Current attempts to decrease hantavirus-associated human infections rely primarily on prevention and countermeasures for rodent control, including reduced contact to droppings, saliva and urine, and disinfection of areas that are contaminated with rodent excreta. Here, we review these recent advances and other aspects including PUUV prevalence, virus biology, diagnosis and clinical features, and current animal models for vaccine and treatment development.},
}

Animals
*Puumala virus/immunology/physiology
Humans
*Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome/epidemiology/virology/therapy/immunology
Disease Models, Animal
Prevalence
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Viral Vaccines/immunology

@article {pmid40280144,
year = {2025},
author = {Ray, STJ and Fuller, CE and Boubour, A and Tshimangani, T and Kafoteka, E and Muiruri-Liomba, A and Malenga, A and Tebulo, A and Pensulo, P and Gushu, MB and Nielsen, M and Raees, M and Stockdale, E and Langton, J and Birbeck, GL and Waithira, N and Bonnett, LJ and Henrion, MY and Fink, EL and Postels, DG and O'Brien, N and Page, AL and Baron, E and Gordon, SB and Molyneux, E and Dondorp, A and George, EC and Maitland, K and Michael, BD and Solomon, T and Chimalizeni, Y and Lalloo, DG and Moxon, CA and Taylor, T and Mallewa, M and Idro, R and Seydel, K and Griffiths, MJ},
title = {The aetiologies, mortality, and disability of non-traumatic coma in African children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {The Lancet. Global health},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {e1043-e1056},
doi = {10.1016/S2214-109X(25)00055-5},
pmid = {40280144},
issn = {2214-109X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Coma/etiology/mortality/epidemiology ; Child ; Africa/epidemiology ; Child, Preschool ; Adolescent ; Infant ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Non-traumatic coma in African children is a common life-threatening presentation often leading to hospital attendance. We aimed to estimate the distribution of non-traumatic coma causes and outcomes, including disease-specific outcomes, for which evidence is scarce.

METHODS: We systematically reviewed MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases from inception to Feb 6, 2024. We included studies recruiting children (aged 1 month to 16 years) with non-traumatic coma (Blantyre Coma Scale score ≤2, ie deep coma or comparable alternative) from any African country. Disease-specific studies were included if outcomes were reported. Primary data were requested where required. We used a DerSimonian-Laird random effects model to calculate pooled estimates for prevalence of causes, mortality, and morbidity (in-hospital and post-discharge), including analysis of mortality by temporality. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD4202014193).

FINDINGS: We screened 16 666 articles. 138 studies were eligible for analysis, reporting causes, outcome data, or both from 35 027 children with non-traumatic coma in 30 African countries. 114 (89%) of 128 studies were determined to be high quality. Among the causes, cerebral malaria had highest pooled prevalence at 58% (95% CI 48-69), encephalopathy of unknown cause was associated with 23% (9-36) of cases, and acute bacterial meningitis was the cause of 10% (8-12) of cases, with all other causes representing lower proportions of cases. Pooled overall case-fatality rates were 17% (16-19) for cerebral malaria, 37% (20-55) for unknown encephalopathy, and 45% (34-55) for acute bacterial meningitis. By meta-regression, there was no significant difference in cerebral malaria (p=0·98), acute bacterial meningitis (p=0·99), or all-cause coma (p=0·081) mortality by year of study. There was no substantial difference in deaths associated with cerebral malaria in-hospital compared with post-discharge (17% [16-19] vs (18% [16-20]). Mortality was higher post-discharge than in-hospital in most non-malarial comas, including acute bacterial meningitis (39% [26-52]) vs 53% [38-69]). Disability associated with cerebral malaria was 11% (9-12). Pooled disability outcomes associated with other non-malarial diseases were largely absent.

INTERPRETATION: The prevalence and outcomes of cerebral malaria and meningitis associated with non-traumatic coma were strikingly static across five decades. Enhanced molecular and radiological diagnostics, investment, policy making, community awareness, and health service provision are all required to facilitate earlier referral to specialist centres, to drive a step-change in diagnostic yield and treatment options to improve these outcomes.

FUNDING: Wellcome Trust.

TRANSLATIONS: For the Chichewa, French and Portuguese translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.},
}

Humans
*Coma/etiology/mortality/epidemiology
Child
Africa/epidemiology
Child, Preschool
Adolescent
Infant
Prevalence

@article {pmid40015486,
year = {2025},
author = {Guo, J and Wang, T and Cao, H and Ma, Q and Tang, Y and Li, T and Wang, L and Xu, Y and Zhan, S},
title = {Application of methodological strategies to address unmeasured confounding in real-world vaccine safety and effectiveness study: a systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical epidemiology},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {111737},
doi = {10.1016/j.jclinepi.2025.111737},
pmid = {40015486},
issn = {1878-5921},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic ; *Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects ; *Vaccine Efficacy/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Observational Studies as Topic ; Research Design ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Uses of real-world data to evaluate vaccine safety and effectiveness are often challenged by unmeasured confounding. The study aimed to review the application of methods to address unmeasured confounding in observational vaccine safety and effectiveness research.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42024519882), and searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus for epidemiological studies investigating influenza and COVID-19 vaccines as exposures, and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases as outcomes, published between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2023. Data on study design and statistical analyses were extracted from eligible articles.

RESULTS: A total of 913 studies were included, of which 42 (4.6%, 42/913) accounted for unmeasured confounding through statistical correction (31.0%, 13/42) or confounding detection or quantification (78.6%, 33/42). Negative control was employed in 24 (57.1%, 24/42) studies-2 (8.3%, 2/24) for confounding correction and 22 (91.7%, 22/24) for confounding detection or quantification-followed by E-value (31.0%, 13/42), prior event rate ratio (11.9%, 5/42), regression discontinuity design (7.1%, 3/42), instrumental variable (4.8%, 2/42), and difference-in-differences (2.4%, 1/42). A total of 871 (95.4%, 871/913) studies did not address unmeasured confounding, but 38.9% (355/913) reported it as study limitation.

CONCLUSION: Unmeasured confounding in real-world vaccine safety and effectiveness studies remains underexplored. Current research primarily employed confounding detection or quantification, notably negative control and E-value, which did not yield adjusted effect estimates. While some studies used correction methods like instrumental variable, regression discontinuity design, and negative control, challenges arise from the stringent assumptions. Future efforts should prioritize developing valid methodologies to mitigate unmeasured confounding.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic
*Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects
*Vaccine Efficacy/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Observational Studies as Topic
Research Design
Influenza, Human/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40010583,
year = {2025},
author = {Kaul, T and Damen, JAA and Wynants, L and Van Calster, B and van Smeden, M and Hooft, L and Moons, KGM},
title = {Assessing the quality of prediction models in health care using the Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST): an evaluation of its use and practical application.},
journal = {Journal of clinical epidemiology},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {111732},
doi = {10.1016/j.jclinepi.2025.111732},
pmid = {40010583},
issn = {1878-5921},
mesh = {Humans ; Bias ; Reproducibility of Results ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Assessment/methods ; Consensus ; *Models, Statistical ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Since 2019, the Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST; www.probast.org) has supported methodological quality assessments of prediction model studies. Most prediction model studies are rated with a "High" risk of bias (ROB) and researchers report low interrater reliability (IRR) using PROBAST. We aimed to (1) assess the IRR of PROBAST ratings between assessors of the same study and understand reasons for discrepancies, (2) determine which items contribute most to domain-level ROB ratings, and (3) explore the impact of consensus meetings.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We used PROBAST assessments from a systematic review of diagnostic and prognostic COVID-19 prediction models as a case study. Assessors included international experts in prediction model studies or their reviews. We assessed IRR using prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK) before consensus meetings, examined bias ratings per domain-level ROB judgments, and evaluated the impact of consensus meetings by identifying rating changes after discussion.

RESULTS: We analyzed 2167 PROBAST assessments from 27 assessor pairs covering 760 prediction models: 384 developments, 242 validations, and 134 mixed assessments (including both). The IRR using PABAK was higher for overall ROB judgments (development: 0.82 [0.76; 0.89]; validation: 0.78 [0.68; 0.88]) compared to domain- and item-level judgments. Some PROBAST items frequently contributed to domain-level ROB judgments, eg, 3.5 Outcome blinding and 4.1 Sample size. Consensus discussions mainly led to item-level and never to overall ROB rating changes.

CONCLUSION: Within this case study, PROBAST assessments received high IRR at the overall ROB level, with some variation at item- and domain-level. To reduce variability, PROBAST assessors should standardize item- and domain-level judgments and hold well-structured consensus meetings between assessors of the same study.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: The Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST; www.probast.org) provides a set of items to assess the quality of medical studies on so-called prediction tools that calculate an individual's probability of having or developing a certain disease or health outcome. Previous research found low interrater reliability (IRR; ie, how consistently two assessors rate aspects of the same study) when using PROBAST. To understand why this is the case, we conducted a large study involving more than 30 experts from around the world, all of whom applied PROBAST to the same set of prediction tool studies. Based on more than 2150 PROBAST assessments, we identified which PROBAST items led to the most disagreements between raters, explored reasons for these disagreements, and examined whether the use of so-called consensus meetings (ie, different assessors of the same study discuss their ratings and decide on a finalized rating) impacted PROBAST ratings. Our study found that the IRR between different assessors of the same study was higher than previously reported. One explanation for the better agreement compared to previous research may be the preplanning on how to assess certain PROBAST aspects before starting the assessments, as well as holding well-structured consensus meetings. These improvements lead to a more effective use of PROBAST in evaluating the trustworthiness and quality of prediction tools in the health-care domain.},
}

Humans
Bias
Reproducibility of Results
*COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Assessment/methods
Consensus
*Models, Statistical

@article {pmid40406036,
year = {2025},
author = {Nwaudo, D and Egbe, S and Litvak, A and Strelzow, J},
title = {Impact of Transitioning to a Level 1 Trauma Center on Orthopaedic Surgical Volume and Resident Education: Case Report in Orthopaedic Education.},
journal = {JB & JS open access},
volume = {10},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {40406036},
issn = {2472-7245},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Orthopaedic residents are required to complete at least 1,000 surgical cases over their 5-year training, including specific procedural categories mandated by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This study evaluates the effects of upgrading a major academic center to an adult Level 1 trauma center (L1TC) on orthopaedic case volume, complexity, and residents' training experience. In 2018, our institution transitioned from a Level 3 to a L1TC. We retrospectively analyzed surgical records and resident case logs spanning from 2013 to 2023.

METHODS: ACGME case logs and electronic medical records (EMRs) from a single urban institution were reviewed from July 2013 to June 2023. Data were divided into pre-L1TC (2013-2018) and post-L1TC (2018-2023) periods. Trauma cases were defined by ACGME Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes in the "fracture/dislocation" and "manipulation" categories and further identified by criteria such as treatment by orthopaedic trauma surgeons, emergent scheduling, or occurrence on weekends or holidays. All other cases were categorized as elective. Linear regression analyses assessed trends in case volumes over time.

RESULTS: Total ACGME cases logged ranged from 6,172 in 2015 to 10,541 in 2018, without a significant trend over time (p = 0.17). Trauma logs increased significantly post-L1TC (p < 0.001), with an average of 2,586 (31% of all cases) compared with 1,467 (22%) pre-L1TC. Trauma case volume saw a near 12-fold increase post-L1TC (p < 0.001). Elective cases remained stable (p = 0.48) but decreased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic (p = 0.0035).

CONCLUSIONS: The shift to L1TC status significantly boosted trauma case exposure for residents without an observed displacement of elective cases in favor of trauma cases. Elective cases declined during the pandemic, emphasizing the role of L1TC access in sustaining training. Future studies should investigate the impact of the L1TC experience on early career proficiency in orthopaedic practice. These findings underscore the value of trauma center access in resident training and support further exploration into optimizing orthopaedic education.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, Case report. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.},
}

@article {pmid40405833,
year = {2025},
author = {Phuong, NTT and Nguyen, HA and Trinh, TND and Trinh, KTL},
title = {A gold nanoparticle-based colorimetric strategy for DNA detection: principles and novel approaches.},
journal = {Analytical methods : advancing methods and applications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5ay00148j},
pmid = {40405833},
issn = {1759-9679},
abstract = {The development of nanotechnology has led to the rapid growth of many different fields, including sensors. Bulky and complex sensor systems are gradually being replaced by streamlined sensor devices with advantages in size, simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and fast response, allowing qualitative detection of target analyte on-site application for clinical diagnosis. Significantly, since the COVID-19 pandemic, research on developing test kits for detecting biological molecules has grown rapidly, with an increasing number of publications. The number of studies developing colorimetric sensors based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) has increased continuously over the years, demonstrating the potential application of this material. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect and high biocompatibility of AuNPs make them different from many other metal nanomaterials. In addition, the peroxidase activity properties of AuNPs have also received much attention in colorimetric sensors. In this review, the colorimetric sensors developed based on the AuNP material platform for DNA detection will be discussed in detail. Among them, the commonly used synthesis methods of AuNPs based on their applications and the primary mechanism of AuNP-based colorimetric sensors for DNA detection will be discussed. In addition, AuNP-based colorimetric applications in POCT for pathogenic bacteria and viruses are also mentioned in this review to provide a broader perspective on the potential and developmental direction of AuNP-based colorimetric sensors. Another aspect this review provides is development strategies that allow simple readout using the naked eye, a spectrophotometer, or a smartphone camera, which present many opportunities for integration into other electronic devices.},
}