@article {pmid40217329,
year = {2025},
author = {Lin, ZZ and Cai, HW and Huang, YF and Zhou, LL and Yuan, ZY and He, LP and Li, J},
title = {Prevalence of depression among university students in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC psychology},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {373},
pmid = {40217329},
issn = {2050-7283},
support = {20241180013//National Undergraduate Training Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Students/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; China/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Universities ; Prevalence ; *Depression/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Male ; Female ; Young Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Depression among university students in China represents a critical public health challenge, with emerging evidence suggesting exacerbated risks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite prior regional studies, a comprehensive national analysis comparing pre-pandemic and pandemic-era prevalence, while accounting for profession-specific stressors, remains lacking. This study aims to quantify depression prevalence across Chinese universities, identify high-risk subgroups, and assess the pandemic's impact.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, CNKI, Wang-fang Database, and Web of Science. The articles were cross-sectional studies focusing on the prevalence of depression among university students in China, with clearly defined criteria for diagnosing depression included. MetaXL 5.3 was used to pool the outcomes and perform a meta-analysis, assessing the prevalence of depression among university students and influential factors such as the impact of COVID-19.

RESULTS: Data from 32 cross-sectional studies (n = 93,679) on depression prevalence among students were analyzed. The prevalence estimates ranged from 12.1% to 77.1%, with a summary prevalence of 34.70% after meta-analytic pooling. Subgroup investigations based on major, sample size, geographical region, gender, and the influence of COVID-19 were conducted. Prior to the pandemic, student depression prevalence was 35.0% (95%CI, 26.9%-43.4%), which increased to 38.7% (95%CI, 33.6%-44.0%) during and after the pandemic.

DISCUSSION: This study underscores a substantial mental health burden among Chinese university students, intensified by pandemic-related disruptions. Medical students and those in high-stress regions warrant prioritized interventions. Systemic reforms in healthcare education and regionally tailored mental health policies are urgently needed. Longitudinal studies are critical to track post-pandemic recovery trajectories.

CRD42024502949.},
}

Humans
*Students/psychology/statistics & numerical data
China/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Universities
Prevalence
*Depression/epidemiology
Cross-Sectional Studies
Male
Female
Young Adult
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40216549,
year = {2025},
author = {Mueller, HJ and Pennington, EL and Carr, AS and Barner, JC},
title = {Effectiveness of Telehealth for Disease Management During the Perinatal Period: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/tmj.2024.0501},
pmid = {40216549},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {Introduction: Many perinatal services to manage chronic diseases transitioned to telehealth following the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study was conducted to review the literature and summarize the effectiveness of telehealth for diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), mental health (anxiety and depression), and opioid use disorder (OUD) management during the perinatal period postonset of COVID-19. Methods: PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases were searched for articles published between 2020 and 2023 using keywords (COVID-19) and (maternal, maternity, obstetrics, perinatal, pregnancy) and (telemedicine, telehealth). Inclusion criteria were: intervention or change in practice with clinical results, postonset of COVID-19, English language, and addressed disease management (i.e., diabetes, hypertension, mental health, OUD) during pregnancy or postpartum. Exclusion criteria were: commentary, guideline, protocol, or review articles and perspectives. Results: The review included 24 articles, including 7 randomized controlled trials. Articles evaluated diabetes (N = 9), HDP (N = 4), mental health (N = 10), and OUD (N = 1). One-half (N = 12) were conducted in the United States and telehealth interventions (e.g., app, videoconferencing, audio visits) and clinical effectiveness varied by disease state. Most studies reported at least one positive outcome of telehealth (N = 19, 79.2%); however, some also reported negative outcomes (N = 8, 33.3%). Glycemic control was adequately achieved in most studies (N = 8, 88.9%), and the majority of studies (N = 3, 75%) reported positive or neutral results for the management of HDP. Various telehealth interventions resulted in lower anxiety and depression symptoms. Only one study examined OUD and reported negative outcomes. Conclusions: Telehealth offered effective management of diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, and depression in perinatal women and often improved patient outcomes during COVID-19. Therefore, telehealth should continue to be offered to perinatal women with these chronic conditions as appropriate for individual and clinical situations. More research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of telehealth interventions for OUD management.},
}

@article {pmid40215094,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, R and Jiang, J and Ding, L and Song, D and Chen, Y},
title = {Innovation of Ratiometric Sensing Strategies Based on Graphitic Carbon Nitride.},
journal = {Critical reviews in analytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-25},
doi = {10.1080/10408347.2025.2486213},
pmid = {40215094},
issn = {1547-6510},
abstract = {Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), a π-conjugated semiconductor with visible-light absorption, has emerged as a versatile material for ratiometric sensing due to its thermal/chemical stability, biocompatibility, and tunable optoelectronic properties. This review highlights recent advances in g-C3N4-based ratiometric electrochemiluminescence (ECL), fluorescence (FL), and photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors for ultrasensitive detection of diverse analytes. Ratiometric ECL platforms achieved remarkable detection limits, such as 0.2 nM for Hg[2+] and 59 aM for SARS-CoV-2 RdRp gene, leveraging dual-potential or dual-wavelength strategies. FL sensors enabled selective quantification of analysts, such as Ce[3+] (6.4 × 10[-8 ]mol/L) and tetracycline (5.0 nM) via aggregation-induced emission or inner filter effect mechanisms. In PEC sensing, spatial-resolved dual-electrode systems attained ultrahigh sensitivity for Escherichia coli (0.66 cfu/mL) and alpha-fetoprotein (0.2 pg/mL). These g-C3N4-based sensors demonstrated enhanced sensitivity and reliability across environmental, biomedical, and food safety applications. The synergy of g-C3N4's structural advantages and ratiometric design principles demonstrates broad application prospects in fields such as food and environmental safety analysis, as well as early disease diagnosis.},
}

@article {pmid40214651,
year = {2025},
author = {Akingbola, A and Adewole, O and Adegbesan, A and Peters, F and Odukoya, T and Aremu, O and Adeleke, O and Idris, A and Owolabi, A and Aiyenuro, A},
title = {From Wuhan to Omicron K.P2 strain: A comprehensive review of SARS-CoV-2 phylogeny and public health implications of the latest booster vaccine.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2485840},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2485840},
pmid = {40214651},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology/classification ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/virology/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; Immunization, Secondary ; Phylogeny ; Public Health ; Mutation ; },
abstract = {The SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to evolve, with the Omicron KP.2 variant, a descendant of BA.2.86, emerging as a public health concern due to its rapid spread and resistance to existing immunity. This review examines the phylogenetic evolution of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on KP.2 and its key mutations (R346T, F456L, V1104L), alongside its epidemiological implications. It also discusses the development and approval of the KP.2-adapted booster vaccine, shown in clinical trials to significantly enhance immune responses and protect against symptomatic and severe disease, particularly in vulnerable groups. Despite vaccine advancements, challenges in global distribution and inequity persist, especially in low- and middle-income countries, increasing the risk of vaccine-resistant variants. The manuscript underscores the importance of equitable access to the KP.2-adapted booster to control the pandemic and prevent future outbreaks, while highlighting the need for continuous surveillance and broader-spectrum vaccine research as the virus evolves.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology/classification
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/virology/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
Immunization, Secondary
Phylogeny
Public Health
Mutation

@article {pmid40214136,
year = {2025},
author = {Baruah, A},
title = {A Paradigmatic Shift: Telehealth Counselling's Expansion and Challenges in India.},
journal = {Journal of evaluation in clinical practice},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {e70089},
doi = {10.1111/jep.70089},
pmid = {40214136},
issn = {1365-2753},
support = {//This study was supported by Christ University Delhi NCR./ ; },
mesh = {India/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Counseling/organization & administration/methods ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; Health Services Accessibility/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the rapid expansion and transformative impact of telehealth counselling in India, a trend significantly propelled by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODOLOGY: This paper presents a perspective on the current telehealth landscape, synthesizing insights from an extensive literature review. The investigation integrates qualitative insights from health care practitioners and clients, allowing for a multifaceted understanding of the emerging obstacles linked to telehealth implementation. The synthesis is structured around several key concepts identified in the literature, including the efficacy of telehealth counselling services compared to traditional face-to-face interactions, the resilience of mental health services during crises, and the growing acceptance of digital modalities among patients. Additionally, it explores significant challenges such as disparities in technological access, the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks, varying levels of patient receptivity, infrastructural limitations, and the readiness of health care professionals to adopt telehealth technologies.

RESULTS: By focusing on these areas, the paper elucidates the complex interplay of technical, regulatory, and cultural factors shaping the telehealth ecosystem in India. It advocates for urgent policy enhancements and the continuous integration of technology to effectively address these barriers.

DISCUSSION: This perspective underscores the potential for telehealth counselling to evolve into a permanent and essential component of India's mental health service delivery model, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and accessible health care system.

CONCLUSION: The conclusions drawn emphasize the necessity for targeted policy interventions and the establishment of robust technological infrastructures to foster a more inclusive and effective telehealth environment, ensuring mental health services reach all segments of the population.},
}

India/epidemiology
Humans
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Counseling/organization & administration/methods
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
Health Services Accessibility/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40213632,
year = {2025},
author = {Dezawa, M},
title = {Macrophage- and pluripotent-like reparative Muse cells are unique endogenous stem cells distinct from other somatic stem cells.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1553382},
pmid = {40213632},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {Muse cells are endogenous reparative stem cells with dual characteristics: pluripotent-like and macrophage-like. They can be identified by the pluripotent surface marker stage-specific embryonic antigen-3-positive (SSEA-3 (+)) cells in the bone marrow, peripheral blood, and various organs, including the umbilical cord and amnion. Muse cells can differentiate into ectodermal, endodermal, and mesodermal lineage cells, self-renew, and selectively migrate to damaged sites by sensing one of the universal tissue damage signals, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). At these sites, they phagocytose damaged/apoptotic cells and differentiate into the same cell type as the phagocytosed cells. In this manner, Muse cells replace damaged/apoptotic cells with healthy, functioning cells, thereby repairing tissues. Due to their specific immunosuppressive and immunotolerant mechanism, clinical trials have been conducted for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), subacute ischemic stroke, epidermolysis bullosa, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), cervical spinal cord injury, neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome. These trials involved the intravenous injection of ∼1.5 × 10[7] donor Muse cells without human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching or immunosuppressant treatment, and they demonstrated safety and therapeutic efficacy. Thus, donor Muse cell treatment does not require gene manipulation, differentiation induction, or surgical intervention. These unique characteristics distinguish Muse cells from other somatic stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells, VSEL stem cells, and marrow-isolated adult multi-lineage inducible (MIAMI) cells.},
}

@article {pmid40184037,
year = {2025},
author = {Radcliffe, C and Kotton, CN},
title = {Vaccination strategies for solid organ transplant candidates and recipients: insights and recommendations.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {313-323},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2025.2489659},
pmid = {40184037},
issn = {1744-8395},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccination/methods ; *Transplant Recipients ; Immunocompromised Host ; *Organ Transplantation ; *Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; *Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/prevention & control ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Vaccines save lives. They are integral to reducing the morbidity and mortality of vaccine-preventable infections in solid organ transplant recipients. Pre-transplant vaccination provides a unique opportunity for administration of live, viral vaccines, and enhanced vaccine efficacy, compared to the post-transplant period with decreased vaccine response due to immunosuppression.

AREAS COVERED: We discuss a general approach to pre- and post-transplant vaccination in solid organ transplant candidates and recipients. We then review guideline statements and recent literature related to individual vaccines, including the recently developed respiratory syncytial virus vaccine. Travel and occupation-related vaccines are also discussed.

EXPERT OPINION: The challenge of vaccination for immunocompromised patients expands as the prevalence of immunocompromised adults rises, and immunocompromised patients are frequently excluded from vaccine trials. In an age of vaccine hesitancy and reemerging vaccine-preventable infections, well-powered, prospective studies are needed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of vaccines in solid organ transplant candidates and recipients.},
}

Humans
*Vaccination/methods
*Transplant Recipients
Immunocompromised Host
*Organ Transplantation
*Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
*Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/prevention & control
Vaccine Efficacy

@article {pmid40212904,
year = {2025},
author = {Schipper, AE and Sloane, CSM and Shimelis, LB and Kim, RT},
title = {Technological innovations in layperson CPR education - A scoping review.},
journal = {Resuscitation plus},
volume = {23},
number = {},
pages = {100924},
pmid = {40212904},
issn = {2666-5204},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Rapid initiation of CPR is key for survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, making bystander CPR education a key part of the cardiac chain-of-survival. CPR classes continue to include new technologies that enable more widespread and high-fidelity training. We aimed to examine the landscape of technological innovations in layperson CPR training since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: We searched Cochrane, Medline, PubMed, and Web of Science from database inception to July 2024 for studies. We included articles with layperson CPR classes that included a technological advance, either in the equipment or mode of delivery of education. We focused on studies published after the start of 2020.

RESULTS: Out of 1070 studies screened, 50 met the selection criteria. The primary groups of technology found were extended reality (20), feedback devices (11), asynchronous video instruction (10), tele-education (5), and low-cost CPR manikins (4). These technologies show promise to offer comparable or improved effectiveness compared to traditional options. Several topics may warrant further investigation, such as cognitive load associated with extended reality, the practicality of student-created CPR training devices, and possible interactive effects between technologies.

CONCLUSION: Future systematic reviews should evaluate the specific learning contexts for which these individual technologies, or combinations of these technologies, may be best suited to guide regulating bodies and CPR instructors in their pedagogical decisions.},
}

@article {pmid40212158,
year = {2025},
author = {Abbas, AH and Haji, MR and Shimal, AA and Kurmasha, YH and Al-Janabi, AAH and Azeez, ZT and Al-Ali, ARS and Al-Najati, HMH and Al-Waeli, ARA and Abdulhadi, NASA and Al-Tuaama, AZH and Al-Ashtary, MM and Hussin, OA},
title = {A multidisciplinary review of long COVID to address the challenges in diagnosis and updated management guidelines.},
journal = {Annals of medicine and surgery (2012)},
volume = {87},
number = {4},
pages = {2105-2117},
pmid = {40212158},
issn = {2049-0801},
abstract = {Long COVID has emerged as a significant challenge since the COVID-19 pandemic, which was declared as an outbreak in March 2020, marked by diverse symptoms and prolonged duration of disease. Defined by the WHO as symptoms persisting or emerging for at least two months post-SARS-CoV-2 infection without an alternative cause, its prevalence varies globally, with estimates of 10-20% in Europe, 7.3% in the USA, and 3.0% in the UK. The condition's etiology remains unclear, involving factors, such as renin-angiotensin system overactivation, persistent viral reservoirs, immune dysregulation, and autoantibodies. Reactivated viruses, like EBV and HSV-6, alongside epigenetic alterations, exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction and energy imbalance. Emerging evidence links SARS-CoV-2 to chromatin and gut microbiome changes, further influencing long-term health impacts. Diagnosis of long COVID requires detailed systemic evaluation through medical history and physical examination. Management is highly individualized, focusing mainly on the patient's symptoms and affected systems. A multidisciplinary approach is essential, integrating diverse perspectives to address systemic manifestations, underlying mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies. Enhanced understanding of long COVID's pathophysiology and clinical features is critical to improving patient outcomes and quality of life. With a growing number of cases expected globally, advancing research and disseminating knowledge on long COVID remain vital for developing effective diagnostic and management frameworks, ultimately supporting better care for affected individuals.},
}

@article {pmid40212143,
year = {2025},
author = {Nayak, SS and Amini-Salehi, E and Ulrich, MT and Sahli, Y and Fleischman, M and Patel, M and Naeiji, M and Maghsoodifar, H and Sadeghi Douki, SAH and Alotaibi, A and Faraji, N and Hassanipour, S and Hashemi, M and Keivanlou, MH},
title = {Exploring the evolution of evidence synthesis: a bibliometric analysis of umbrella reviews in medicine.},
journal = {Annals of medicine and surgery (2012)},
volume = {87},
number = {4},
pages = {2035-2048},
pmid = {40212143},
issn = {2049-0801},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Umbrella review studies have become increasingly vital in evidence synthesis, offering a comprehensive overview by analyzing multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses. This bibliometric study aimed to delineate the growth and thematic evolution of umbrella reviews within evidence-based medicine, illuminating their integral role in synthesizing high-level evidence.

METHODS: Utilizing the Web of Science Core Collection, we performed a search for publications on umbrella reviews, identifying relevant articles through a refined strategy. Analytical tools including VOS Viewer and CiteSpace were employed to visualize connections and trends among the gathered data, converting intricate bibliometric information into comprehensible visual maps.

RESULTS: Our search yielded 2965 pertinent publications, highlighting a marked growth in research output, particularly from 2010 to 2023. The United States, United Kingdom, and China were predominant in this field, with leading institutions like King's College London and the University of Toronto at the forefront. The analysis identified major journals such as BMJ Open and PLOS One as key publishers. Co-citation and keyword analysis revealed current research focuses, with recent trends emphasizing COVID-19 and mental health. The study also uncovered a robust international collaboration network, underscoring the global impact of umbrella reviews.

CONCLUSION: This bibliometric analysis confirms the expanding influence and utility of umbrella reviews in medical research and decision-making. By charting the evolution and current trends in this field, our study not only showcases the geographical and institutional distribution of research but also guides future scholarly efforts to advance evidence synthesis methodologies.},
}

@article {pmid40211768,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, J and Zhao, D and Nouri, HR and Chu, HW and Huang, H},
title = {Transcriptional Regulation of Mouse Mast Cell Differentiation and the Role of Human Lung Mast Cells in Airway Inflammation.},
journal = {Immunological reviews},
volume = {331},
number = {1},
pages = {e70026},
doi = {10.1111/imr.70026},
pmid = {40211768},
issn = {1600-065X},
support = {R01AI083986/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01AI107022/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01AI150082/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01AI152504/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01AI161296/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; U19AI125357/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Mast Cells/immunology/metabolism ; Cell Differentiation/genetics ; Mice ; *Lung/immunology ; Gene Expression Regulation ; Inflammation/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology ; Transcription Factors/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Mast cells (MCs) play a critical role in allergic inflammation, anaphylaxis, and chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma, COPD, and osteoarthritis. Dysregulated MC activation can lead to MC activation syndrome (MACS), which is observed in patients with long COVID. MCs express the high-affinity receptor for IgE and, upon activation, release mediators and cytokines that trigger anaphylactic shock and promote allergic inflammation. They also interact with epithelial and nerve cells, which are crucial in forming a complex network of cell-cell and gene-gene interactions driving chronic inflammation that can confer resistance to treatment. In this review, in the context of the literature, we focus on experiments conducted in our laboratory investigating how transcription factors and enhancers regulate genes critical in mouse MC differentiation and function related to human lung inflammation.},
}

Animals
Humans
*Mast Cells/immunology/metabolism
Cell Differentiation/genetics
Mice
*Lung/immunology
Gene Expression Regulation
Inflammation/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology
Transcription Factors/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40211538,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhojnagarwala, PS and Jose, J and Zhao, S and Weiner, DB},
title = {DNA based Immunotherapy for Cancer: in vivo Approaches for Recalcitrant Targets.},
journal = {Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.04.008},
pmid = {40211538},
issn = {1525-0024},
abstract = {Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment which complements traditional therapies including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies. Immunotherapy redirects the patient's immune system against tumors via several immune mediated approaches. Over the past few years, therapeutic immunization, which enable the patient's T cells to better recognize and kill tumors, have been increasingly tested in the clinic with several approaches demonstrating treatment improvements. There has been a renewed interest in cancer vaccines due to advances in tumor-antigen identification, immune response optimization, novel adjuvants, next-generation vaccine delivery platforms and antigen designs. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated progress in nucleic acid-based vaccine manufacturing, which spurred broader interest in mRNA or plasmid platforms. Enhanced DNA vaccine designs including optimized leader sequences, RNA and codon optimizations, improved formulations and delivery via adaptive electroporation using stereotactic intramuscular/intradermal methods have improved T cell responses to plasmid-delivered tumor-antigens. Additionally, advancements for direct in vivo delivery of DNA-encoded mono/bispecific antibodies offer novel tumor-targeting strategies. This review summarizes recent clinical data for therapeutic cancer vaccines utilizing the DNA platform, including vaccines targeting common tumor-associated and viral antigens and neoantigen vaccines using nucleic acid technologies. We also summarize preclinical data using DNA-launched monoclonal/bispecific antibodies, underscoring their potential as a novel cancer therapy tool.},
}

@article {pmid40210368,
year = {2025},
author = {Verduzco-Gutierrez, M and Fleming, TK and Azola, AM},
title = {Considerations for Long COVID Rehabilitation in Women.},
journal = {Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {371-387},
doi = {10.1016/j.pmr.2024.11.009},
pmid = {40210368},
issn = {1558-1381},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation/epidemiology ; Female ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Sex Factors ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has given rise to long COVID, a prolonged manifestation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, which presents with varied symptoms and conditions lasting beyond expected acute illness. Despite efforts, diagnostic and treatment approaches remain insufficient, particularly for women who experience higher prevalence rates. Rehabilitation professionals have played a crucial role during the pandemic. Individualized rehabilitation plans, encompassing various therapies and interdisciplinary collaborations, are essential. Addressing disparities and biological sex differences is paramount, requiring increased research, understanding, and advocacy for effective rehabilitative care tailored to all individuals affected by long COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/rehabilitation/epidemiology
Female
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Sex Factors

@article {pmid40209971,
year = {2025},
author = {Adiguzel, Y and Bogdanos, DP and Shoenfeld, Y},
title = {Molecular/antigenic mimicry and immunological cross-reactivity explains SARS-CoV-2-induced autoimmunity.},
journal = {Autoimmunity reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {103811},
doi = {10.1016/j.autrev.2025.103811},
pmid = {40209971},
issn = {1873-0183},
abstract = {COVID-19 pandemic is over, but its effects on chronic illnesses remain a challenging issue. Understanding the influence of SARS-COV-2-mediated autoimmunity and overt autoimmune disease is of paramount importance, as it can provide a critical mass of information regarding both infection-mediated (and vaccination-induced) autoimmune phenomena in susceptible individuals during the disease course, and short or long-term post-disease sequelae. The high prevalence of organ and non-organ specific autoantibody positivity in patients with COVID-19 led to studies attempting to delineate the origin and the underlying mechanism responsible for their induction nature, identifying novel autoantigens, and the self-epitope sequences which could be the impetus for the initiating autoreactive responses. Herein, we provide a meticulous review of the studies reporting those mimicking sequences that have been experimentally validated, based on the assumption that molecular mimicry and immunological crossreactivity may account for autoantibody development. Most reports are based on bioinformatics approaches, and only a disproportionally small number of studies currently demonstrate immunological crossreactivity. We took the opportunity to further review and searched for the linear human epitope sequences of human, through the epitopes deposited at the Immune Epitope Database. This included an analysis of autoimmune disease as the disease data to comprehensively understand the subject matter. The critical overview of the findings underscore the urgent and immense need for further research to gain a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved and the anticipated appraisal that molecular mimicry and immunological crossreactivity is indeed central to the loss of immunological tolerance during SARS-COV-2 infection.},
}

@article {pmid40208120,
year = {2025},
author = {Fournier, L and Pérez-Rodriguez, F and Rohr, M and Buvelot, H and Vetter, P},
title = {[Measles: a persistent threat despite an effective vaccine].},
journal = {Revue medicale suisse},
volume = {21},
number = {913},
pages = {736-741},
doi = {10.53738/REVMED.2025.21.913.736},
pmid = {40208120},
issn = {1660-9379},
mesh = {Humans ; *Measles/prevention & control/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Measles Vaccine/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Vaccination ; Immunocompromised Host ; Child ; },
abstract = {Measles is a highly transmissible viral disease. Following a decrease in vaccination rate between 2020 and 2023 due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a new surge of cases is observed worldwide. No direct antiviral is currently licensed against measles. Young children and immunocompromised individuals are the most at risk to develop complications. The best way to prevent transmission and complications is through vaccination. Public health measures are required to break transmission chains and protect the most fragile ones. The aim of this article is to review the epidemiology and the virological aspects of measles, to clarify the protection conferred by vaccination and to specify the key elements of diagnosis and management.},
}

Humans
*Measles/prevention & control/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Measles Vaccine/administration & dosage
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Vaccination
Immunocompromised Host
Child

@article {pmid40206484,
year = {2025},
author = {Satyanarayanan, SK and Yip, TF and Han, Z and Zhu, H and Qin, D and Lee, SMY},
title = {Role of toll-like receptors in post-COVID-19 associated neurodegenerative disorders?.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1458281},
pmid = {40206484},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {In the intricate realm of interactions between hosts and pathogens, Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which play a crucial role in the innate immune response, possess the ability to identify specific molecular signatures. This includes components originating from pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, as well as the resulting damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), the endogenous molecules released after cellular damage. A developing perspective suggests that TLRs play a central role in neuroinflammation, a fundamental factor in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease (PD). This comprehensive review consolidates current research investigating the potential interplay between TLRs, their signaling mechanisms, and the processes of neurodegeneration following SARS-CoV-2 infection with an aim to elucidate the involvement of TLRs in the long-term neurological complications of COVID-19 and explore the potential of targeting TLRs as a means of implementing intervention strategies for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19-associated long-term brain outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40049397,
year = {2025},
author = {Camelo, S and Dioh, W and Teixeira, JP and Busse, LW and Nair, G and Plantefeve, G and Morelot-Panzini, C and Lobo, SM and Self, WH and Collins, SP and Van Maanen, R and Veillet, S},
title = {Modulation of the renin-angiotensin system against COVID-19: A path forward?.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {154},
number = {},
pages = {107867},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2025.107867},
pmid = {40049397},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; *Renin-Angiotensin System/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Pandemics ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists/therapeutic use ; Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Soon after the pandemic outbreak in 2020, it was proposed that binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the angiotensin converting enzyme-2 may explain most of COVID-19's manifestations. Therefore, manipulation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by using well known and commercialized blockers of its classical arm or by repurposing new stimulators of the alternative RAS pathway in clinical development was seen as a potentially effective strategy for the treatment of COVID-19. Moreover, this therapeutic approach had previously shown significant promise in the treatment of other respiratory viral respiratory infections and forms of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Consequently, several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were launched to test the efficacy of rebalancing the RAS to reduce the severity of COVID-19. While most of these trials produced neutral results, certain studies reached their primary endpoints. In the present collaborative review, sponsors and main investigators of some of these trials attempt to reach a consensus regarding their clinical significance and which factors influenced their differing outcomes. The knowledge gained through the careful analysis of these RCTs of RAS modulators in patients with severe COVID-19 may prove useful for other forms of acute lung injury.},
}

Humans
*Renin-Angiotensin System/drug effects
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Pandemics
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Betacoronavirus/drug effects
Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists/therapeutic use
Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism

@article {pmid39979191,
year = {2025},
author = {Pederson, T and Tainter, CK and Self, M and Ghobrial, M and Sloane, C and Mergen, S and Kennis, B and Aminlari, A and McGuire, WC and Wardi, G},
title = {Controversies in the Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism in the Emergency Department.},
journal = {The Journal of emergency medicine},
volume = {71},
number = {},
pages = {31-43},
doi = {10.1016/j.jemermed.2024.10.003},
pmid = {39979191},
issn = {0736-4679},
support = {K23 GM146092/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Embolism/diagnosis/therapy ; Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration ; COVID-19/complications ; Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products/analysis ; Anticoagulants/therapeutic use ; Risk Assessment/methods ; Acute Disease ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is frequently diagnosed in the Emergency Department (ED), and the management approach can be nuanced.

OBJECTIVE: In this narrative review, we synthesize the literature in selected areas of ongoing controversy regarding the diagnostic and management approaches for acute PE in the ED, and provide evidence-based recommendations to empower emergency physicians (EPs) to provide optimal care in these situations.

DISCUSSION: d-Dimer is used to clinically exclude the diagnosis of PE patients who are stratified as low risk. However by utilizing likelihood ratio and with certain scoring tools, patient historically considered moderate or high risk for PE may safely be able to have the diagnosis excluded with a negative d-dimer. Traditional risk stratification and management strategies can be cautiously applied to patients with concomitant Coronavirus-19 infection while awaiting more definitive studies. There is an increasing trend in the diagnosis of isolated subsegmental PE, and many patients receiving this diagnosis may be treated without anticoagulation provided that they have no evidence of associated deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and can be closely followed as an outpatient. There is a persistent hesitancy to discharge patients with newly diagnosed acute PE, and existing well-supported risk stratification tools and clinical decision frameworks can support the EP's decision to safely discharge low-risk patients.

CONCLUSION: tThis review of the literature empowers emergency clinicians to manage challenging PE cases in the ED.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Embolism/diagnosis/therapy
Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration
COVID-19/complications
Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products/analysis
Anticoagulants/therapeutic use
Risk Assessment/methods
Acute Disease

@article {pmid39971694,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsang, MS and Zhou, IW and Zhang, AL and Xue, CC},
title = {Chinese herbal medicine for dyspnea and persistent symptoms of long COVID: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Journal of integrative medicine},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {126-137},
doi = {10.1016/j.joim.2025.01.001},
pmid = {39971694},
issn = {2095-4964},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dyspnea/drug therapy/etiology ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19/complications ; Fatigue/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Anxiety/drug therapy ; Depression/drug therapy ; Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders/drug therapy ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Over 65 million people have long COVID. Evidence for using Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) to treat long COVID is growing. A systematic review of evidence for guiding clinical decision is warranted.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects and safety of CHM in alleviating the severity of dyspnea, fatigue, exercise intolerance, depression, anxiety and insomnia in long COVID adults based on registered randomized clinical trials (RCT).

SEARCH STRATEGY: World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and Chinese Clinical Trial Registry were searched for registered trial protocols from database inception to February 10, 2023. English (PubMed, Embase, AMED and CINAHL) and Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang Data and CQVIP) were then searched to identify relevant publications from December 2019 through April 6, 2023.

INCLUSION CRITERIA: Registered RCTs that compared the effects of Chinese herbal medicines or Chinese herbal formulas against a control treatment (i.e., the placebo or usual care) in adults with persistent symptoms of long COVID. The primary outcome of dyspnea, and secondary outcomes of fatigue, exercise intolerance, depression, anxiety and insomnia were measured using validated tools at the end of the treatment.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS: Data were extracted, and eligible RCTs were evaluated using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations independently by two researchers. Effect sizes were estimated by random-effects modelling and mean difference (MD). Heterogeneity between trials was quantified by I[2].

RESULTS: Among the 38 registered clinical trials we identified, seven RCTs (1,519 patients) were included in the systematic review. One RCT had a low overall risk of bias. Compared to the control, CHM reduces dyspnea on the Borg Dyspnea Scale score (MD = -0.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.65 to 0.25) with moderate certainty, and reduces fatigue on the Borg Scale (MD = -0.48, 95% CI = -0.74 to -0.22) with low certainty. CHM clinically reduces depression on Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score (MD = -6.00, 95% CI = -7.56 to -4.44) and anxiety on Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale score (MD = -6.10, 95% CI = -7.67 to -4.53), and reduces insomnia on the Insomnia Severity Index (MD = -4.86, 95% CI = -12.50 to 2.79) with moderate certainty. Meta-analysis of two RCTs (517 patients) showed that CHM clinically improves exercise intolerance by increasing 6-minute walking distance (MD = -15.92, 95% CI = -10.20 to 42.05) with substantial heterogeneity (I[2] = 68%) and low certainty.

CONCLUSION: CHM is associated with a post-treatment clinical reduction in depression and anxiety in long COVID adults, compared to the control, but it does not have a strong treatment effect on dyspnea and insomnia. Effects of CHM on exercise intolerance and fatigue are uncertain, and the safety of using CHM remains questionable. Please cite this article as: Tsang MS, Zhou IW, Zhang AL, Xue CC. Chinese herbal medicine for dyspnea and persistent symptoms of long COVID: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Integr Med. 2025; 23(2): 126-137.},
}

Humans
*Dyspnea/drug therapy/etiology
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19/complications
Fatigue/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Anxiety/drug therapy
Depression/drug therapy
Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders/drug therapy
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid39543801,
year = {2025},
author = {Parua, P and Ghosh, S and Jana, K and Seth, A and Debnath, B and Rout, SK and Sarangi, MK and Dash, R and Halder, J and Rajwar, TK and Pradhan, D and Rai, VK and Dash, P and Das, C and Kar, B and Ghosh, G and Rath, G},
title = {Therapeutic Potential of Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies (nMAbs) against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical design},
volume = {31},
number = {10},
pages = {753-773},
pmid = {39543801},
issn = {1873-4286},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/drug effects ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred significant endeavors to devise treatments to combat SARS-CoV-2. A limited array of small-molecule antiviral drugs, specifically monoclonal antibodies and interferon therapy, have been sanctioned to treat COVID-19. These treatments typically necessitate administration within ten days of symptom onset. There have been reported reductions in the effectiveness of these medications due to mutations in non-structural protein genes, particularly against Omicron subvariants. This underscores the pressing requirement for healthcare systems to continually monitor pathogen variability and its impact on the efficacy of prevention and treatments.

AIM: This review aimed to comprehend the therapeutic benefits and recent progress of nMAbs for preventing and treating the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (nMAbs) provide a treatment avenue for severely affected individuals, especially those at high risk for whom vaccination is not viable. With their specific epitope affinity, they pose no significant risk of severe adverse effects. The degree of reduction in neutralization varies significantly across different monoclonal antibodies and variant combinations. For instance, Sotrovimab maintained its neutralization effectiveness against Omicron BA.1, but exhibited diminished efficacy against BA.2, BA.4, BA.5, and BA.2.12.1.

CONCLUSION: Bebtelovimab has been observed to preserve its efficacy against all subtypes of the Omicron variant. Subsequently, WKS13, mAb-39, 19n01, F61-d2 cocktail, etc., have become effective. This review has highlighted the therapeutic implications of nMAbs in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron treatment and the progress of COVID-19 drug discovery.},
}

Humans
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/drug effects
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology

@article {pmid40206686,
year = {2024},
author = {Raissi Dehkordi, N and Raissi Dehkordi, N and Karimi Toudeshki, K and Farjoo, MH},
title = {Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome: A Review of Current State, Challenges, and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Mayo Clinic proceedings. Digital health},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {21-31},
pmid = {40206686},
issn = {2949-7612},
abstract = {Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a potentially life-threatening cardiac repolarization disorder characterized by an increased risk of fatal arrhythmias. Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for risk stratification and appropriate management. However, traditional diagnostic approaches have limitations, necessitating more objective and efficient tools. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers promising solutions by enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of electrocardiography (ECG) interpretation. The AI algorithms can process ECG data more rapidly than human experts, providing real-time analysis and prompt identification of individuals at risk, and reducing interobserver variability. By analyzing large volumes of ECG data, AI algorithms can extract meaningful features that may not be apparent to the human eye. Advancements in AI-driven corrected QT interval monitoring using mobile ECG devices, such as smartwatches, offer a valuable and convenient tool for identifying individuals at risk of LQTS-related complications, which is particularly applicable during pandemic conditions, such as COVID-19. Integration of AI into clinical practice poses a number of challenges. Bias in data gathering and patient privacy concerns are important considerations that must be addressed. Safeguarding patient privacy and ensuring data protection are crucial for maintaining trust in AI-driven systems. In addition, the interpretability of AI algorithms is a concern because understanding the decision-making process is essential for clinicians to trust and confidently use these tools. Future perspectives in this field may involve the integration of AI into diagnostic protocols, through genetic subtype classifications on the basis of ECG data. Moreover, explainable AI techniques aim to uncover ECG features associated with LQTS diagnosis, suggesting new insights into LQTS pathophysiology.},
}

@article {pmid40206609,
year = {2023},
author = {Nguyen, AM and Rivera, AM and Gualtieri, L},
title = {A New Health Care Paradigm: The Power of Digital Health and E-Patients.},
journal = {Mayo Clinic proceedings. Digital health},
volume = {1},
number = {3},
pages = {203-209},
pmid = {40206609},
issn = {2949-7612},
abstract = {The integration of digital health into the field of medicine has seen a marked increase with the advancement of technology. Before the pandemic, a marked portion of the adult population, more than 66%, owned smartphones, and approximately 15% owned wearables. The widespread use of such devices, along with the effect of COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a transformation in health care culture that prioritizes cocreation, codesign, and collaboration. This shift promotes a model of health care centered on patient empowerment and self-management. In a recent interview with Dave deBronkart, known as e-Patient Dave, we revisited the possibilities of this new approach aimed at empowering, engaging, and equipping e-patients in the context of the pandemic. This interview with deBronkart was originally used for a graduate course on digital health. However, after noticing many reoccurring themes throughout the discussion, we decided to further explore this matter. It was discovered that participatory medicine is a new paradigm in health care, which challenges the conventional, paternalistic model and emphasizes the importance of a collaborative relationship between patients and providers. The realization of the full potential of health care can be achieved by promoting patient engagement and activation through the adoption of participatory medicine.},
}

@article {pmid40206469,
year = {2025},
author = {Snopkowska Lesniak, SW and Maschio, D and Henriquez-Camacho, C and Moreno Cuerda, V},
title = {Biomarkers for SARS-CoV-2 infection. A narrative review.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1563998},
pmid = {40206469},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 with devastating effects on health-care systems. The magnitude of the problem has moved physicians and investigators to identify strategies to detect patients at a high risk of severe disease. The aim of this study was to identify the most relevant biomarkers in the published literature and their correlation with clinical outcomes. To this end, we performed a revision of studies that investigated laboratory abnormalities in patients with COVID-19, comparing non-severe and severe patients. Blood biomarkers were classified into five main categories: hematological, coagulation related to the liver or kidney, and inflammatory. From our analysis, the most relevant biomarkers associated with severe infection for each category were increased levels of leukocytes, neutrophils, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio; decreased platelet count; and high levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, creatine kinase, troponin, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen, C-reactive protein, ferritin, and IL-6. Moreover, lactate dehydrogenase and D-dimer levels were independent risk factors for death.},
}

@article {pmid40205144,
year = {2025},
author = {Bonanni, P and Heo, JY and Honda, H and Lee, PI and Mouliom, A and Leong, HN and Del Pilar Martin Matos, M and Dawson, R},
title = {Optimal Timing of Vaccination: A Narrative Review of Integrating Strategies for COVID-19, Influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus.},
journal = {Infectious diseases and therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40205144},
issn = {2193-8229},
abstract = {Lower respiratory tract infections caused by SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cause a significant disease burden globally, despite the availability of effective vaccines. Certain populations, such as older adults (≥ 60 years) and individuals of all ages with particular comorbidities, are at increased risk for severe outcomes, including hospitalization and death. National administration schedules for available vaccines against respiratory viruses are not unified, and not all current guidelines are clear and directive, concerning the optimal timing of vaccination. Herein, we formulate an evidence-based position regarding the optimal timing of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV vaccination for older adults and individuals with chronic comorbidities, based on a synthesis of the literature and current guidelines. Vaccination impact and timing were found to be influenced by vaccinee risk factors, including age and comorbidities, and waning vaccine effectiveness and seasonal pathogen burden. Because COVID-19, influenza, and RSV display unique seasonal patterns within and between regions, local epidemiological surveillance of each virus is crucial for determining optimal vaccination timing and guidelines. To maximize the benefits of these respiratory virus vaccines, the timing of peak vaccine effectiveness and period of greatest risk for severe outcomes should be aligned. Thus, COVID-19, influenza, and other recommended vaccines given ahead of the start of the respiratory virus season (or other regionally appropriate time) and co-administered at a single, routine visit represent the optimal approach to protecting at-risk populations. More data will be required to establish the clinical benefit of additional RSV vaccine doses and whether these may be integrated within a seasonal schedule. Coordinated policy decisions that align with strain selection for new and annually reformulated vaccines would enable the timely raising of public health awareness, ultimately leading to enhanced vaccine uptake. Implementation strategies will require engagement of healthcare providers and strong, evidence-based public health recommendations for integrated vaccine schedules.},
}

@article {pmid40205087,
year = {2025},
author = {Cao, Q and Zhang, N and Leng, C and Wang, S and Ma, J},
title = {Emerging Viral Infections (ZIKV, SARS-CoV-2, and MPXV) and Depression: Ketamine and (S, R)-Ketamine as Promising Antidepressants.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {e70036},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70036},
pmid = {40205087},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ketamine/therapeutic use/chemistry ; *Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/psychology/complications/virology ; *Depression/drug therapy/virology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Emerging viral pathogens, newly reported or rapidly evolving viruses, are a significant public health concern worldwide. Beyond their characteristic clinical presentations, emerging viruses, such as monkeypox virus (MPXV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), have been increasingly implicated in the development of various neuropsychiatric complications including depression, mainly due to their ability to induce neuroinflammation, immune dysfunction, and neurotransmitter imbalances. Depression is a common mental health condition characterised by continuous low mood or sadness, pessimism, anxiety, and even a tendency to suicide as the main symptoms. Post viral depression commonly shows significant challenges, as traditional antidepressant agents exhibit suboptimal efficacy and prolonged onset of action. Regarding this, ketamine and its enantiomers, S-ketamine and R-ketamine, have recently received increasing attention as potential options in light of their potent and effective antidepressant properties. The present review describes the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of depression associated with emerging viruses, highlighting the role of neuroinflammation and disturbances inneurotransmitter systems. It also discusses the antidepressant mechanisms of ketamine and its enantiomers, the current clinical evidence demonstrating their effectiveness and safety, especially in the case of treatment-resistant depression, and their growing relevance for mood complications linked to emerging viral infections, including depression. Although preliminary reports propose effectiveness, additional studies are needed to present optimal treatment strategies, long-term safety, and incorporation into clinical practice. Addressing these challenges will be critical for optimising the effectiveness of ketamine- and (S, R)-ketamine-containing therapeutic protocols in treating depression linked to emerging viral infections.},
}

Humans
*Ketamine/therapeutic use/chemistry
*Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/psychology/complications/virology
*Depression/drug therapy/virology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid40204184,
year = {2025},
author = {Higgins, DM and Bryan, MA and O'Leary, ST and Opel, DJ},
title = {The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Parental Childhood Vaccine Attitudes in the US.},
journal = {Academic pediatrics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102829},
doi = {10.1016/j.acap.2025.102829},
pmid = {40204184},
issn = {1876-2867},
}

@article {pmid40203968,
year = {2025},
author = {Fuster-Casanovas, A and Melero, SM and Cabutto, D and Carrion, C and Vidal-Alaball, J and Herrera-Ramos, E and Barcons, C and Duarte-Díaz, A},
title = {Exploring digital health tools for depression management in primary health care: Systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of affective disorders},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2025.03.187},
pmid = {40203968},
issn = {1573-2517},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital health tools are transforming mental health care, particularly in treating depression, which affects 5 % of the global population and is projected to be the top disease burden by 2030. In primary care, these tools improve accessibility and efficacy, addressing rising mental health demands, especially post-COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of digital health tools for the management of depression within primary care.

METHODS: A systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines, focusing on digital health tools for reducing depressive symptoms. Controlled trials were included, with RCTs assessed via the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and non-RCTs evaluated using the JBI checklist for quasi-experimental studies. Depressive symptom reduction was the primary outcome.

RESULTS: A total of 29 controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, identifying were web-based platforms, mobile apps, phone calls, text messages, and decision algorithms. The meta-analysis revealed that digital health tools had a significant effect on depressive symptoms (g = -0.22, 95 % CI: -0.37; -0.06, I[2] = 79.64 %). At 6 to 12-month follow-up, the random effects meta-analysis showed that digital health tools had a significant effect on depressive symptoms (g = -0.19, 95%CI: -0.29; -0.09, I[2] = 53.42 %).

CONCLUSIONS: Digital health tools are effective in reducing the symptoms of repression. Symptom severity does not predict suitability for digital treatment, emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive approaches and strategies for older adults. Integrating digital interventions into clinical guidelines requires studies like this to support their adoption in real-world practice.},
}

@article {pmid40203050,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Hu, Y and Zhang, Y and Cheng, K and Zhang, C and Wang, J},
title = {Advances in Subacute Thyroiditis: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapies.},
journal = {FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology},
volume = {39},
number = {7},
pages = {e70525},
doi = {10.1096/fj.202403264R},
pmid = {40203050},
issn = {1530-6860},
support = {YDZJ202501ZYTS133//the Science and Technology Development Project of Jilin Province/ ; 2024SCZ90//the Health Talent Project of Jilin Province department of Finance/ ; 2024B12//Bethune Project of Jilin Unversity/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Thyroiditis, Subacute/diagnosis/therapy/etiology/drug therapy ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Subacute thyroiditis (SAT) is an inflammatory thyroid disease that is often associated with viral infections. In particular, SARS-COV-2 and its vaccine were found to cause SAT during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. However, the pathogenesis, clinical features, and processes still need further profiling. Recently, there are new findings and understanding about the pathogenic mechanisms of SAT. Some HLA genes have been shown to increase the risk of SAT development, and inflammatory cytokine storms could promote the progression of SAT. Some new diagnostic criteria for SAT have been proposed to facilitate clinicians' diagnosis of SAT when facing atypical symptoms in a manner of rapidity and accuracy. Plus, new treatments for SAT with herbal medicines have been proposed recently as an addition to the conventional steroidal drugs and NSAIDs. This review will provide a summary of these recent progresses of SAT on pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapies with emphasis on the role of a variety of virus pathogens, including the COVID-19 virus.},
}

Humans
*Thyroiditis, Subacute/diagnosis/therapy/etiology/drug therapy
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40202690,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, Q and Han, J and Yan, Y and Kuo, YH and Shen, ZM},
title = {Reinforcement learning for healthcare operations management: methodological framework, recent developments, and future research directions.},
journal = {Health care management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40202690},
issn = {1572-9389},
support = {21222881//Health Bureau/ ; 27200419//University Grants Committee/ ; },
abstract = {With the advancement in computing power and data science techniques, reinforcement learning (RL) has emerged as a powerful tool for decision-making problems in complex systems. In recent years, the research on RL for healthcare operations has grown rapidly. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, RL has played a critical role in optimizing decisions with greater degrees of uncertainty. RL for healthcare applications has been an exciting topic across multiple disciplines, including operations research, operations management, healthcare systems engineering, and data science. This review paper first provides a tutorial on the overall framework of RL, including its key components, training models, and approximators. Then, we present the recent advances of RL in the domain of healthcare operations management (HOM) and analyze the current trends. Our paper concludes by presenting existing challenges and future directions for RL in HOM.},
}

@article {pmid39929362,
year = {2025},
author = {Kara-Junior, N and Rossi, S},
title = {Epidemiology of Cataract-Related Blindness in Brazil: 30 Years of Public Policy Evolution: A Review Article.},
journal = {American journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {273},
number = {},
pages = {205-211},
doi = {10.1016/j.ajo.2025.01.023},
pmid = {39929362},
issn = {1879-1891},
mesh = {Humans ; *Blindness/epidemiology/etiology/prevention & control ; Brazil/epidemiology ; *Cataract/epidemiology/complications ; *Cataract Extraction/statistics & numerical data ; *Public Policy ; *Health Policy ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: This review evaluated the impact of various public policies on the number of cataract surgeries performed annually by the Public Health System (SUS) in Brazil and its regions. The goal was to provide insights for managers and the medical community to assess the effectiveness of strategies to prevent cataract-related blindness.

DESIGN: Trend studies based on literature review.

METHODS: This study was developed through a literature review, with a bibliographic survey conducted in databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, LILACS, and SciELO.

RESULTS: Until the early 2000s, approximately 130 000 cataract surgeries were performed annually in Brazil. In 2001, the National Cataract Campaign (CNC) was introduced, which significantly increased surgical volume by providing unrestricted federal funding. By 2003, the SUS had performed 430 000 surgeries, underscoring the critical role of funding in combating cataract blindness. However, the Ministry of Health discontinued the CNC in 2006, leading to a decline in surgeries in subsequent years. The annual surgical volume recovered to 430 000 only in 2011, following the adoption of new policies that involved directly contracting private companies through government tenders. In 2013, the SUS achieved the minimum number of surgeries required to prevent an accumulation of cataract blindness cases, conducting 530 000 procedures. By the early 2020s, parliamentary amendments directed to specific municipalities through Health Social Organizations became a primary funding source for cataract procedures. This approach proved effective, with approximately 860 000 surgeries performed in 2022 to prevent new accumulations and reduce overall cataract blindness. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted progress, causing a 23% decline in surgeries in 2020. However, surgical rates surged with the relaxation of restrictions in 2021, exceeding prepandemic levels by 21%. By 2022, the number of cataract surgeries increased by 63% compared with the prepandemic average, fully addressing the backlog created during the health crisis.

CONCLUSIONS: The increase in surgeries was driven by unlimited federal funding, private contracts, and targeted parliamentary amendments. Despite these efforts, regional disparities persist, requiring equitable policies based on local epidemiologic data. Ensuring access to cataract surgery demands sustained public investment. The resilience of Brazil's SUS in the postpandemic era underscores the need for consistent investments to effectively address health care challenges.},
}

Humans
*Blindness/epidemiology/etiology/prevention & control
Brazil/epidemiology
*Cataract/epidemiology/complications
*Cataract Extraction/statistics & numerical data
*Public Policy
*Health Policy
Public Health

@article {pmid39724286,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghatak, A and Pierides, I and Singh, RK and Srivastava, RK and Varshney, RK and Prasad, M and Chaturvedi, P and Weckwerth, W},
title = {Millets for a sustainable future.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {76},
number = {6},
pages = {1534-1545},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/erae507},
pmid = {39724286},
issn = {1460-2431},
support = {//Vienna Metabolomics Center/ ; 5234//Austrian Science Fund/ ; },
mesh = {*Millets/genetics/growth & development ; *Crops, Agricultural/genetics ; Climate Change ; COVID-19 ; Agriculture ; },
abstract = {Our current agricultural system faces a perfect storm-climate change, a burgeoning population, and unpredictable outbreaks such as COVID-19 which disrupt food production, particularly for vulnerable populations in developing countries. A paradigm shift in agriculture practices is needed to tackle these issues. One solution is the diversification of crop production. While ~56% of the plant-based protein stems from three major cereal crops (rice, wheat, and maize), underutilized crops such as millets, legumes, and other cereals are highly neglected by farmers and the research community. Millets are one of the most ancient and versatile orphan crops with attributes such as fast growing, high yielding, withstanding harsh environments, and rich in micronutrients such as iron and zinc, making them appealing to achieve agronomic sustainability. Here, we highlight the contribution of millet to agriculture and focus on the genetic diversity of millet, genomic resources, and next-generation omics and their applications under various stress conditions. Additionally, integrative omics technologies could identify and develop millets with desirable phenotypes having high agronomic value and mitigating climate change. We emphasize that biotechnological interventions, such as genome-wide association, genomic selection, genome editing, and artificial intelligence/machine learning, can improve and breed millets more effectively.},
}

*Millets/genetics/growth & development
*Crops, Agricultural/genetics
Climate Change
COVID-19
Agriculture

@article {pmid39688608,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsionis, A and Stefanatou, P and Konstantakopoulos, G},
title = {Under pressure: A systematic review of the mental health impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health workers.},
journal = {Psychiatrike = Psychiatriki},
volume = {36},
number = {1},
pages = {55-71},
doi = {10.22365/jpsych.2024.025},
pmid = {39688608},
issn = {1105-2333},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Mental Health ; Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology ; Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; Depression/epidemiology/psychology ; Pandemics ; Female ; Male ; Stress, Psychological/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic emerged suddenly, profoundly impacting the lives of us all, including mental health workers (MHW). This unprecedented crisis introduced significant challenges for MHW, exposing them to increased risks of psychological distress. This systematic review aims to evaluate the psychopathological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on MHW. Additionally, it seeks to explore factors-social, regional, occupational, and others-influencing these effects. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, PsycINFO, and Embase databases following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 2621 citations were screened, with 29 studies meeting the inclusion criteria for analysis. Our review focused exclusively on studies utilizing validated measurement tools to ensure reliability. Our findings revealed a high prevalence of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma-related disorders, and burnout among mental health nurses and other MHW during the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant variations based on regional, occupational, gender, and other demographic factors. Depressive symptoms ranged from 16.8% to 52.2%, and anxiety levels varied from 9.7% to 63% among MHW. Interestingly, MHW exhibited lower rates of depression and anxiety compared to other healthcare workers and the general population, possibly indicating higher resilience. Factors such as younger age, female gender, profession, work setting, fear of COVID-19, and workload were associated with increased psychological distress. Our review also underscores the need for more systematically accurate trauma research, particularly in how trauma is defined and assessed during global crises. While the consistency in study findings highlights the considerable effect of the pandemic, we observed differences that suggest the influence of multiple interacting factors. The lack of longitudinal studies and comparative data limits the ability to determine changes over time and differences with other groups. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the mental health of those responsible for caring for the mental health of others, with considerable variations influenced by multiple interacting factors. Our findings highlight the critical need for protective protocols and psychological support systems to mitigate adverse effects on MHW during global crises. The variance in impact across different countries, in relation to local, political, cultural, and other factors, provides a foundation for future research.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Mental Health
Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology
Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology
Depression/epidemiology/psychology
Pandemics
Female
Male
Stress, Psychological/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39688606,
year = {2025},
author = {Deli, D and Tsouvelas, G and Roukas, D and Mentis, M},
title = {A systematic review of depressive and anxiety symptoms in caregivers of dementia patients.},
journal = {Psychiatrike = Psychiatriki},
volume = {36},
number = {1},
pages = {72-80},
doi = {10.22365/jpsych.2024.023},
pmid = {39688606},
issn = {1105-2333},
mesh = {Humans ; *Caregivers/psychology ; *Dementia/psychology/nursing ; *Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology ; *Depression/epidemiology/psychology ; Quality of Life/psychology ; COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Male ; Caregiver Burden/psychology ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {The current number of dementia cases in Europe stands at 7.7 million, a figure projected to double by 2050. Caregivers of individuals with dementia experience a heightened burden compared to those caring for other chronically ill individuals, increasing the risk of depression and stress disorders. This systematic literature review, following PRISMA guidelines, explores the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms in dementia caregivers. Searches in academic databases, restricted to studies from the last 15 years, identified 85 articles with 16 meeting the inclusion criteria. Results indicate significant caregiver burden, diminished self-reported quality of life, and a propensity for clinical depression. Depression and anxiety symptoms were more pronounced among female caregivers. Caregiver depression correlated with increased emergency department utilization by dementia patients, with a surge in depressive symptoms reported during the COVID-19 pandemic. Caregiving for dementia patients was associated with burnout, adversely impacting caregiver quality of life. Depression and anxiety symptoms in caregivers correlated with substance use. Sociodemographic variables, including low socioeconomic status, high urbanization levels, and older age, were associated with caregiver depression. Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease reported higher anxiety, burden, and depression scores compared to those assisting individuals with other dementias, particularly when neuropsychiatric symptoms were evident. The identification of the factors that are linked to the mental burden of caregivers allows mental health professionals to enhance symptom detection and provide tailored support, ultimately alleviating caregiver burden and improving dementia care quality. Systematic professional assistance and training opportunities through health policies can effectively alleviate caregiver burden.},
}

Humans
*Caregivers/psychology
*Dementia/psychology/nursing
*Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology
*Depression/epidemiology/psychology
Quality of Life/psychology
COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Female
Male
Caregiver Burden/psychology
Prevalence

@article {pmid40202004,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Z and Du, B and Wu, X and Hu, X and Diao, S and Dong, R},
title = {[Research progress on the relationship between mitochondrial dynamics imbalance and novel coronavirus infection-related acute respiratory distress syndrome].},
journal = {Zhonghua wei zhong bing ji jiu yi xue},
volume = {37},
number = {3},
pages = {300-304},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn121430-20241126-00957},
pmid = {40202004},
issn = {2095-4352},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/metabolism/virology/etiology ; COVID-19 ; *Mitochondrial Dynamics ; *Mitochondria/metabolism ; DNA, Mitochondrial ; Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/metabolism ; Dynamins ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Patients with severe pneumonia caused by novel coronavirus infection are often complicated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which has a high mortality. ARDS is characterized by diffuse alveolar damage, pulmonary edema, and hypoxemia. Mitochondria are prone to morphological and functional abnormalities under hypoxia and viral infection, which can lead to cell apoptosis and damage, severely impacting the disease progression. Mitochondria maintain homeostasis through fission and fusion. In ARDS, hypoxia leads to the phosphorylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), triggering excessive mitochondrial fission and damaging the alveolar epithelial barrier. Animal experiments have shown that inhibiting this process can alleviate lung injury, providing a potential direction for treatment. The pathology of novel coronavirus infection-related ARDS is similar to that of typical ARDS but more severe. Viral infection and hypoxia disrupt the mitochondrial balance, causing fission and autophagy abnormalities, promoting oxidative stress and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release, activating inflammasomes, inducing the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), exacerbating viral infection, inflammation, and coagulation reactions, and resulting in multiple organ damage. Mechanical ventilation and glucocorticoids are commonly used in the treatment of novel coronavirus infection-related ARDS. Mechanical ventilation is likely to cause lung and diaphragm injuries and changes in mitochondrial dynamics, while the lung protective ventilation strategy can reduce the adverse effects. Glucocorticoids can regulate mitochondrial function and immune response and improve the patient's condition through multiple pathways. The mitochondrial dynamics imbalance in novel coronavirus infection-related ARDS is caused by hypoxia and viral proteins, leading to lung and multiple organ injuries. To clarify the pathophysiological mechanism of mitochondrial dynamics imbalance in novel coronavirus infection-related ARDS and explore effective strategies for regulating mitochondrial dynamics balance to treat this disease, so as to provide new treatment targets and methods for patients with novel coronavirus infection-related ARDS. The existing treatments have limitations. Future research needs to deeply study the mechanism of mitochondrial dysfunction, develop new therapies and regulatory strategies, and improve the treatment effect.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/metabolism/virology/etiology
COVID-19
*Mitochondrial Dynamics
*Mitochondria/metabolism
DNA, Mitochondrial
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/metabolism
Dynamins
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40201990,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, J and Li, Y and Li, H and Zhou, J},
title = {[Acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by severe respiratory infectious diseases: clinical significance and solution of maintaining artificial airway closure].},
journal = {Zhonghua wei zhong bing ji jiu yi xue},
volume = {37},
number = {3},
pages = {221-224},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn121430-20240506-00404},
pmid = {40201990},
issn = {2095-4352},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/etiology ; *Respiration, Artificial ; Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury/prevention & control ; *Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome ; COVID-19 ; Clinical Relevance ; },
abstract = {Since the beginning of the 21st century, the severe respiratory infectious diseases worldwide [such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), influenza A H1N1 and novel coronavirus infection have attracted wide attention from all walks of life due to their superior pathogenicity and transmissibility. Aerosols-carrying pathogens are the main transmission route of many severe respiratory infectious diseases, which can lead to severe respiratory failure and even acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in infected individuals. Mechanical ventilation is the primary treatment for ARDS, and the small tidal volume, appropriate level of positive end-expiratory pressure based lung protective ventilation strategy can effectively reduce the incidence of ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). However, in the process of clinical treatment, it is sometimes necessary to briefly disconnect the connection between the artificial airway and the ventilator circuit, which will not only cause the residual aerosol in the respiratory system to spill out and pollute the surrounding environment, increase the risk of nosocomial infection including medical staff, but also interfere with the implementation of lung protective ventilation strategy and aggravate ventilator-induced lung injury. In addition, studies have shown that a lot of medical staff have nosocomial infections, especially staff involved in tracheal intubation, extubation and other airway related operations. In addition to enhancing personal protective measures, it is crucial to safeguard healthcare workers from aerosol contamination and minimize associated risks during airway management. At present, there are few researches on the temporary sealing of airway lines and ventilator system, and there is a lack of clear guidance. This review summarizes the research status in related fields to provide a reference for corresponding solutions and programs.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/etiology
*Respiration, Artificial
Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury/prevention & control
*Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
COVID-19
Clinical Relevance

@article {pmid40199308,
year = {2024},
author = {Bona, JP},
title = {Knowledge Representation and Management in the Age of Long Covid and Large Language Models: a 2022-2023 Survey.},
journal = {Yearbook of medical informatics},
volume = {33},
number = {1},
pages = {216-222},
doi = {10.1055/s-0044-1800747},
pmid = {40199308},
issn = {2364-0502},
mesh = {*COVID-19 ; Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Language ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Large Language Models ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To select, present, and summarize cutting edge work in the field of Knowledge Representation and Management (KRM) published in 2022 and 2023.

METHODS: A comprehensive set of KRM-relevant articles published in 2022 and 2023 was retrieved by querying PubMed. Topic modeling with Latent Dirichlet Allocation was used to further refine this query and suggest areas of focus. Selected articles were chosen based on a review of their title and abstract.

RESULTS: An initial set of 8,706 publications were retrieved from PubMed. From these, fifteen papers were ultimately selected matching one of two main themes: KRM for long COVID, and KRM approaches used in combination with generative large language models.

CONCLUSIONS: This survey shows the ongoing development and versatility of KRM approaches, both to improve our understanding of a global health crisis and to augment and evaluate cutting edge technologies from other areas of artificial intelligence.},
}

*COVID-19
Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Language
Surveys and Questionnaires
Large Language Models

@article {pmid40199042,
year = {2025},
author = {Baaden, M and Glowacki, DR},
title = {Virtual reality in drug design: Benefits, applications and industrial perspectives.},
journal = {Current opinion in structural biology},
volume = {92},
number = {},
pages = {103044},
doi = {10.1016/j.sbi.2025.103044},
pmid = {40199042},
issn = {1879-033X},
abstract = {Virtual reality (VR) is a tool which has transformative potential in domains which involve the visualization of complex 3D data such as structure-based drug design (SBDD), where it offers new ways to visualize and manipulate complex molecular structures in three dimensions, and enable intuitive exploration of protein-ligand complexes. In this article, we outline three levels of interaction which are available in immersive VR environments for drug discovery, and provide illustrative case studies with applications in COVID-19 research and protein-ligand docking. We discuss VR's role in drug discovery based on conversations with experts from the pharmaceutical industry. While industry experts are mostly optimistic about the potential of VR, they point to the challenges related to integration with existing workflows and the need for improved hardware ergonomics, as well as ensuring a synergistic relationship between VR and an expanding suite of artificial intelligence (AI) tools.},
}

@article {pmid40198513,
year = {2025},
author = {Correia, E and Mandel, J and Cullison, SRJ},
title = {Analyzing Social Media Trends in Cosmeceuticals: Insights From Google Trends and TikTok Analytics.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {24},
number = {4},
pages = {e70172},
doi = {10.1111/jocd.70172},
pmid = {40198513},
issn = {1473-2165},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Media/trends/statistics & numerical data ; *Cosmeceuticals/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Search Engine/trends/statistics & numerical data ; *Dermatology/trends ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Social media usage has surged, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Dermatology invokes intense interest on social media, and cosmeceuticals are among the most trending topics, offering a unique space for dermatologists to share their expertise. By using tools like Google Trends and TikTok viewership, we aim to capture cosmeceutical trends to guide dermatologists' educational efforts.

METHODS: A Google Trends search from January 2004 to December 2023 was performed on retinol, bakuchiol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, hydroquinone, niacinamide, vitamin C serum, and hyaluronic acid. Trend lines were created for each term, and yearly percent differences in relative search volume index (SVI) were calculated. Relative interest for each cosmeceutical was analyzed, comparing the average SVI and TikTok views.

RESULTS: Google data shows sustained cosmeceutical search volume growth, with the largest increase from 2020 to 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Cosmeceutical search volume corresponds with TikTok views. Both platforms demonstrate retinol as the most popular cosmeceutical, followed by hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin C. Niacinamide has considerably more TikTok views compared to search interest. Bakuchiol was the least popular cosmeceutical.

CONCLUSIONS: The results reveal growing curiosity in cosmeceuticals, with interest correlating with consumers' views on social media. Awareness of skincare trends and growth in cosmeceutical interest empower dermatologists to anticipate patient inquiries and develop targeted education on product efficacy, cost effectiveness, and potential adverse reactions. Social media platforms are a possible space for dermatologists to engage with their patients and ensure dissemination of accurate cosmeceutical information.},
}

Humans
*Social Media/trends/statistics & numerical data
*Cosmeceuticals/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Search Engine/trends/statistics & numerical data
*Dermatology/trends
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40198477,
year = {2025},
author = {Allela, OQB and Ali, NAM and Sanghvi, G and Roopashree, R and Kashyap, A and Krithiga, T and Panigrahi, R and Kubaev, A and Kareem, RA and Sameer, HN and Yaseen, A and Athab, ZH and Adil, M},
title = {The Role of Viral Infections in Acute Kidney Injury and Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapy.},
journal = {Stem cell reviews and reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40198477},
issn = {2629-3277},
abstract = {Viruses may cause a wide range of renal problems. Furthermore, many kidney diseases may be brought on by viral infections. Both the primary cause and a contributing factor of acute kidney injury (AKI) may be viral infections. As an example, it is recommended that patients with dengue virus (DENV) infections undergo careful monitoring of their AKI levels. Also, researchers' data so far lend credence to the several hypothesized pathophysiological mechanisms via which AKI can develop in SARS-CoV- 2 infection. Thus, it is critical to comprehend how viral infections cause AKI. Finding an effective method of treating AKI caused by viruses is also vital. Thus, a potential cell-free method for treating AKI that uses regenerative and anti-inflammatory processes is mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes (MSC-EXOs). MSCs alleviate tissue damage and enhance protective effects on damaged kidneys in AKI. Furthermore, MSC-EXOs have exhibited substantial regulatory impact on a range of immune cells and exhibit robust immune regulation in the therapy of AKI. Thus, in models of AKI caused by ischemia-reperfusion damage, nephrotoxins, or sepsis, MSCs and MSC-EXOs improved renal function, decreased inflammation, and improved healing. Therefore, MSCs and MSC-EXOs may help treat AKI caused by different viruses. Consequently, we have explored several innovative and significant processes in this work that pertain to the role of viruses in AKI and the significance of viral illness in the onset of AKI. After that, we assessed the key aspects of MSCs and MSC-EXOs for AKI therapy. We have concluded by outlining the current state of and plans for future research into MSC- and EXO-based therapeutic approaches for the treatment of AKI brought on by viruses.},
}

@article {pmid40197228,
year = {2025},
author = {Noma, K and Asano, T and Taniguchi, M and Ashihara, K and Okada, S},
title = {Anti-cytokine autoantibodies in human susceptibility to infectious diseases: insights from Inborn errors of immunity.},
journal = {Immunological medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/25785826.2025.2488553},
pmid = {40197228},
issn = {2578-5826},
abstract = {The study of Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEIs) is critical for understanding the complex mechanisms of the human immune response to infectious diseases. Specific IEIs, characterized by selective susceptibility to certain pathogens, have enhanced our understanding of the key molecular pathways and cellular subsets involved in host defense against pathogens. These insights revealed that patients with anti-cytokine autoantibodies exhibit phenotypes similar to those with pathogenic mutations in genes encoding signaling molecules. This new disease concept is currently categorized as 'Phenocopies of IEI'. This category includes anti-cytokine autoantibodies targeting IL-17/IL-22, IFN-γ, IL-6, GM-CSF, and type I IFNs. Abundant anti-cytokine autoantibodies deplete corresponding cytokines, impair signaling pathways, and increase susceptibility to specific pathogens. We herein demonstrate the clinical and etiological significance of anti-cytokine autoantibodies in human immunity to pathogens. Insights from studies of rare IEIs underscore the pathological importance of cytokine-targeting autoantibodies. Simultaneously, the diverse clinical phenotype of patients with these autoantibodies suggests that the influences of cytokine dysfunction are broader than previously recognized. Furthermore, comprehensive studies prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the substantial clinical impact of autoantibodies and their potential role in shaping the outcomes of infectious disease.},
}

@article {pmid40197159,
year = {2025},
author = {Alizon, S and Sofonea, MT},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology, kinetics, and evolution: A narrative review.},
journal = {Virulence},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {2480633},
doi = {10.1080/21505594.2025.2480633},
pmid = {40197159},
issn = {2150-5608},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/pathogenicity ; Pandemics ; Evolution, Molecular ; },
abstract = {Since winter 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has emerged, spread, and evolved all around the globe. We explore 4 y of evolutionary epidemiology of this virus, ranging from the applied public health challenges to the more conceptual evolutionary biology perspectives. Through this review, we first present the spread and lethality of the infections it causes, starting from its emergence in Wuhan (China) from the initial epidemics all around the world, compare the virus to other betacoronaviruses, focus on its airborne transmission, compare containment strategies ("zero-COVID" vs. "herd immunity"), explain its phylogeographical tracking, underline the importance of natural selection on the epidemics, mention its within-host population dynamics. Finally, we discuss how the pandemic has transformed (or should transform) the surveillance and prevention of viral respiratory infections and identify perspectives for the research on epidemiology of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/pathogenicity
Pandemics
Evolution, Molecular

@article {pmid40197126,
year = {2025},
author = {Klingl, YE and Petrauskas, A and Jaślan, D and Grimm, C},
title = {TPCs: From plant to human.},
journal = {Physiological reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1152/physrev.00044.2024},
pmid = {40197126},
issn = {1522-1210},
support = {DFG GR4315/6-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)/ ; DFG GR4315/7-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)/ ; SFB1328 A21//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)/ ; TRR152 P04//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)/ ; GRK2338 P08//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)/ ; },
abstract = {In 2005, the Arabidopsis thaliana two-pore channel TPC1 channel was identified as a vacuolar Ca[[2+]]-release channel. In 2009 three independent groups published studies on mammalian TPCs as NAADP-activated endolysosomal Ca[2+] release channels, results that were eventually challenged by two other groups, claiming mammalian TPCs to be PI(3,5)P2 activated Na[+] channels. By now this dispute seems to have been largely reconciled. Lipophilic small molecule agonists of TPC2, mimicking either the NAADP or the PI(3,5)P2 mode of channel activation, revealed, together with structural evidence, that TPC2 can change its selectivity for Ca[2+] versus Na[+] in a ligand-dependent fashion (N- versus P-type activation). Furthermore, NAADP-binding proteins, JPT2 and Lsm12 were discovered, corroborating the hypothesis that NAADP activation of TPCs only works in the presence of these auxiliary NAADP-binding proteins. Pathophysiologically, loss or gain of function of TPCs has effects on autophagy, exocytosis, endocytosis, and intracellular trafficking, e.g., LDL cholesterol trafficking leading to fatty liver disease or viral and bacterial toxin trafficking, corroborating roles of TPCs in infectious diseases such as Ebola or Covid19. Defects in trafficking of EGFR and (?)1-integrin suggested roles in cancer. In neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease models, P-type activation of TPC2 was found to have beneficial effects on both in vitro and in vivo hallmarks of Niemann- Pick disease type C1, Batten disease, and Mucolipidosis type IV. Here, we cover the latest on structure, function, physiology, and pathophysiology of these channels with a focus initially on plant followed by mammalian TPCs, and we discuss their potential as drug targets, including currently available pharmacology.},
}

@article {pmid40196380,
year = {2025},
author = {Safi, D and Khouri, F and Zareef, R and Arabi, M},
title = {Antivirals in COVID-19: A Focus on Pediatric Cardiac Patients.},
journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {4573096},
pmid = {40196380},
issn = {1712-9532},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented public health crisis, driven by its rapid global spread and the urgent need for worldwide collaborative interventions to contain it. This urgency spurred the search for therapeutic agents to prevent or manage the infection. Among these, various types of antivirals emerged as a prominent treatment option, supported by a wealth of observational studies and randomized controlled trials. The results from such studies conflict, with some concluding efficacy and others the lack thereof, with variability also occurring depending on the severity of COVID-19 in the studied population. In addition, many agents have been explored using randomized controlled trials-the gold standard in evaluating the efficacy of an intervention-to only a limited degree, with most of the evidence behind their use concluded using observational studies. Thus, the sheer volume of data has made it challenging to resolve inconsistencies and determine true efficacy. Furthermore, there is a paucity in the literature regarding the use of antivirals in the pediatric population infected with COVID-19, with their use being extrapolated from the results of studies done on adult patients. As such, additional trials are needed to solidify the effectiveness of antivirals in managing COVID-19, particularly in the underexplored and especially vulnerable pediatric cardiac patients. Therefore, utilizing the results from randomized controlled trials, this narrative review evaluates the rationale behind the use of antivirals, summarizes the findings from the literature, and concludes with a focused discussion on their application in pediatric cardiac patients.},
}

@article {pmid40195851,
year = {2025},
author = {Chung, J and Pierce, J and Franklin, C and Olson, RM and Morrison, AR and Amos-Landgraf, J},
title = {Translating animal models of SARS-CoV-2 infection to vascular, neurological and gastrointestinal manifestations of COVID-19.},
journal = {Disease models & mechanisms},
volume = {18},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1242/dmm.052086},
pmid = {40195851},
issn = {1754-8411},
support = {U42OD010918//Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; T32OD011126//NIH Office of the Director/ ; IK2BX002527//U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs/ ; },
mesh = {*COVID-19/complications/pathology/virology ; Animals ; *Disease Models, Animal ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Gastrointestinal Diseases/virology/etiology/pathology ; Humans ; *Nervous System Diseases/virology/etiology/pathology ; *Vascular Diseases/virology/etiology ; Gastrointestinal Tract/pathology/virology ; *Translational Research, Biomedical ; },
abstract = {Since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) initiated a global pandemic resulting in an estimated 775 million infections with over 7 million deaths, it has become evident that COVID-19 is not solely a pulmonary disease. Emerging evidence has shown that, in a subset of patients, certain symptoms - including chest pain, stroke, anosmia, dysgeusia, diarrhea and abdominal pain - all indicate a role of vascular, neurological and gastrointestinal (GI) pathology in the disease process. Many of these disease processes persist long after the acute disease has been resolved, resulting in 'long COVID' or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). The molecular mechanisms underlying the acute and systemic conditions associated with COVID-19 remain incompletely defined. Appropriate animal models provide a method of understanding underlying disease mechanisms at the system level through the study of disease progression, tissue pathology, immune system response to the pathogen and behavioral responses. However, very few studies have addressed PASC and whether existing models hold promise for studying this challenging problem. Here, we review the current literature on cardiovascular, neurological and GI pathobiology caused by COVID-19 in patients, along with established animal models of the acute disease manifestations and their prospects for use in PASC studies. Our aim is to provide guidance for the selection of appropriate models in order to recapitulate certain aspects of the disease to enhance the translatability of mechanistic studies.},
}

*COVID-19/complications/pathology/virology
Animals
*Disease Models, Animal
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Gastrointestinal Diseases/virology/etiology/pathology
Humans
*Nervous System Diseases/virology/etiology/pathology
*Vascular Diseases/virology/etiology
Gastrointestinal Tract/pathology/virology
*Translational Research, Biomedical

@article {pmid40195015,
year = {2025},
author = {Zubair, A and Ahmad, H and Arif, MM and Ali, M},
title = {mRNA vaccines against HIV: Hopes and challenges.},
journal = {HIV medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/hiv.70024},
pmid = {40195015},
issn = {1468-1293},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the introduction of the first licensed mRNA-based vaccines against COVID-19, there has been significant interest in leveraging this technology for other vaccines. An unprecedented surge of mRNA vaccines has emerged in preclinical, clinical, and various research phases since 2020. The rapid development of mRNA formulations, delivery methods, and manufacturing processes has made this trend foreseeable. There is an urgent demand for effective and easily transportable vaccines in regions where the virus is prevalent, and mRNA technology shows promise in addressing this need.

METHODOLOGY: The data was retrieved from various databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, ClinicalTrials.gov, and government websites. The following terms were used in the search strategies: HIV, vaccines, mRNA vaccines, clinical trials, and preclinical trials. A total of 35 articles were identified and subsequently screened for data regarding mRNA vaccines for HIV.

RESULTS: mRNA vaccines are an effective solution for HIV treatment, as demonstrated by various research studies referenced in the article.

CONCLUSION: This review evaluates the current state of HIV-1 mRNA vaccine development, clarifies various targeting strategies, highlights recent research findings, and provides insights into the challenges and potential solutions associated with these issues. In this review, we have explored mRNA vaccines, focusing on their functional structure, design, manufacturing, and distribution methodologies.},
}

@article {pmid40194536,
year = {2025},
author = {Bejon, P and Agweyu, A and Ochola-Oyier, LI and Hamaluba, M and Kamuya, D and Kinyanjui, S and Barasa, E},
title = {Rethinking the evidence on COVID-19 in Africa.},
journal = {The Lancet. Infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S1473-3099(25)00071-4},
pmid = {40194536},
issn = {1474-4457},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic was predicted to cause substantial mortality in Africa. However, some countries in Africa had a striking absence of overwhelmed hospitals and low reported mortality. The marked contrast with the overwhelmed hospitals and high mortality seen in Europe and other high-income settings was regarded as puzzling and a paradox. In this Review, we reflect on possible explanations for the paradox with particular reference to observations made on the ground in Kenya. The evidence is inconsistent with reduced viral transmission or poor surveillance as primary explanations for the discrepancy. Population age structure is an important but incomplete explanation of the epidemiology. Due to the high prevalence of asymptomatic infection, low mortality, and evidence of reduced inflammatory responses, we hypothesise that some populations in Africa might have reduced susceptibility to symptomatic COVID-19. The reduced inflammatory responses might result from immunoregulation or cross-reactive, pre-pandemic cellular immunity, although the evidence is not definitive. Local data are essential to develop public health policies that align with the reality on the ground rather than external perceptions.},
}

@article {pmid39218423,
year = {2025},
author = {Morris, JS},
title = {Tracking vaccine effectiveness in an evolving pandemic, countering misleading hot takes and epidemiologic fallacies.},
journal = {American journal of epidemiology},
volume = {194},
number = {4},
pages = {898-907},
doi = {10.1093/aje/kwae280},
pmid = {39218423},
issn = {1476-6256},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Social Media ; Bias ; },
abstract = {With the emergence of Omicron during the pandemic and the establishment of antibody waning over time, vaccine effectiveness, especially against infection, declined sharply from the original levels seen after the initial rollout. However, studies have demonstrated that they still provided substantial protection vs severe/fatal disease even with Omicron and after waning. Social media has been rife with reports claiming vaccines provided no benefit and some even claiming they made things worse, often driven by simple presentations of raw observational data using erroneous arguments involving epidemiologic fallacies including the base rate fallacy, Simpson's paradox, and the ecological fallacy and ignoring the extensive bias especially from confounding that is an inherent feature of these data. Similar fallacious arguments have been made by some in promoting vaccination policies, as well. Generally, vaccine effectiveness cannot be accurately estimated from raw population summaries but instead require rigorous, careful studies using epidemiologic designs and statistical analysis tools attempting to adjust for key confounders and sources of bias. This article summarizes what aggregated evidence across studies reveals about effectiveness of the mRNA vaccines as the pandemic has evolved, chronologically summarized with emerging variants and highlighting some of the fallacies and flawed arguments feeding social media-based claims that have obscured society's collective understanding.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccine Efficacy
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Social Media
Bias

@article {pmid39168833,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, NN and Do, TD and Truong, HH and Mai, AN and Chen, YC},
title = {Difference in precocious puberty between pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods: a meta-analysis.},
journal = {American journal of epidemiology},
volume = {194},
number = {4},
pages = {1131-1139},
doi = {10.1093/aje/kwae295},
pmid = {39168833},
issn = {1476-6256},
support = {//National Science and Technology Council/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Puberty, Precocious/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Child ; Body Mass Index ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the trend of precocious puberty (PP) incidence after the COVID-19 outbreak and explore potential contributing factors, such as age at presentation and body mass index (BMI) SD score (SDS). Children visiting pediatric endocrinology clinics for the first time for suspected PP were included. We searched databases until February 28, 2023, for studies reporting various indicators of PP incidence before and during the pandemic. Total numbers of events and observations were recorded. A meta-analysis was performed to compare the odds of PP, BMI SDS, and age at presentation between the 2 periods. The dose-response relationships between time points (by number of years away from the pandemic) and PP risk were explored. In summary, a total of 32 studies including 24 200 participants were recruited. The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with the increasing odds of PP among children referred for a suspicious condition (odds ratio = 1.96; 95% CI, 1.56-2.47; I2 = 54%; P < .001). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the findings. The BMI SDS did not vary between the 2 periods, whereas age at presentation was lower after the pandemic. Precocious puberty incidence increased more rapidly during the pandemic period than during the prepandemic period. Trial registration: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; identifier: CRD42023402212).},
}

Humans
*Puberty, Precocious/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Incidence
Child
Body Mass Index
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40194268,
year = {2025},
author = {Jeremic, D and Navarro-Lopez, JD and Jimenez-Diaz, L},
title = {Clinical Benefits and Risks of Antiamyloid Antibodies in Sporadic Alzheimer Disease: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis With a Web Application.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e68454},
doi = {10.2196/68454},
pmid = {40194268},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy ; Humans ; Network Meta-Analysis as Topic ; *Internet ; Bayes Theorem ; Risk Assessment ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite the increasing approval of antiamyloid antibodies for Alzheimer disease (AD), their clinical relevance and risk-benefit profile remain uncertain. The heterogeneity of AD and the limited availability of long-term clinical data make it difficult to establish a clear rationale for selecting one treatment over another.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this work was to assess and compare the efficacy and safety of antiamyloid antibodies through an interactive online meta-analytic approach by performing conventional pair-wise meta-analyses and frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analyses of phase II and III clinical trial results. To achieve this, we developed AlzMeta.app 2.0, a freely accessible web application that enables researchers and clinicians to evaluate the relative and absolute risks and benefits of these therapies in real time, incorporating different prior choices and assumptions of baseline risks of disease progression and adverse events.

METHODS: We adhered to PRISMA-NMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for reporting of systematic reviews with network meta-analysis) and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) guidelines for reporting and rating the certainty of evidence. Clinical trial reports (until September 30, 2024) were retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, and clinical trial databases (including ClinicalTrials.gov). Studies with <20 sporadic AD patients and a modified Jadad score <3 were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed with the RoB-2 tool. Relative risks and benefits have been expressed as risk ratios and standardized mean differences, with confidence, credible, and prediction intervals calculated for all outcomes. For significant results, the intervention effects were ranked in frequentist and Bayesian frameworks, and their clinical relevance was determined by the absolute risk per 1000 people and number needed to treat (NNT) for a wide range of control responses.

RESULTS: Among 7 treatments tested in 21,236 patients (26 studies with low risk of bias or with some concerns), donanemab was the best-ranked treatment on cognitive and functional measures, and it was almost 2 times more effective than aducanumab and lecanemab and significantly more beneficial than other treatments on the global (cognitive and functional) Clinical Dementia Rating Scale-Sum of Boxes (NNT=10, 95% CI 8-16). Special caution is required regarding cerebral edema and microbleeding due to the clinically relevant risks of edema for donanemab (NNT=8, 95% CI 5-16), aducanumab (NNT=10, 95% CI 6-17), and lecanemab (NNT=14, 95% CI 7-31), which may outweigh the benefits.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that donanemab is more effective and has a safety profile similar to aducanumab and lecanemab, highlighting the need for treatment options with improved safety. Potential bias may have been introduced in the included trials due to unblinding caused by frequent cerebral edema and microbleeds, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

*Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy
Humans
Network Meta-Analysis as Topic
*Internet
Bayes Theorem
Risk Assessment

@article {pmid40194267,
year = {2025},
author = {Bakhti, R and Daler, H and Ogunro, H and Hope, S and Hargreaves, D and Nicholls, D},
title = {Exploring Engagement With and Effectiveness of Digital Mental Health Interventions in Young People of Different Ethnicities: Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e68544},
doi = {10.2196/68544},
pmid = {40194267},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/ethnology ; COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Ethnicity/psychology ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; *Mental Health ; Telemedicine ; *Mental Health Services ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The prevalence of mental health difficulties among young people has risen in recent years, with 75% of mental disorders emerging before the age of 24 years. The identification and treatment of mental health issues earlier in life improves later-life outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic spurred the growth of digital mental health interventions (DMHIs), which offer accessible support. However, young people of different ethnicities face barriers to DMHIs, such as socioeconomic disadvantage and cultural stigma.

OBJECTIVE: This review aimed to summarize and evaluate the engagement with and effectiveness of DMHIs among young people of different ethnicities.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO for studies published between January 2019 and May 2024, with an update in September 2024. The inclusion criteria were participants aged <25 years using DMHIs from various ethnic backgrounds. Three reviewers independently screened and selected the studies. Data on engagement (eg, use and uptake) and effectiveness (eg, clinical outcomes and symptom improvement) were extracted and synthesized to compare findings. Studies were assessed for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

RESULTS: The final search yielded 67 studies, of which 7 (10%) met inclusion criteria. There were 1853 participants across the 7 studies, all from high-income countries. Participants were predominantly aged 12 to 25 years, with representation of diverse ethnic identities, including Black, Asian, Hispanic, mixed race, and Aboriginal individuals. Engagement outcomes varied, with culturally relatable, low-cost interventions showing higher retention and user satisfaction. Linguistic barriers and country of origin impeded the effectiveness of some interventions, while near-peer mentorship, coproduction, and tailored content improved the effectiveness of DMHIs. While initial results are promising, small sample sizes, heterogeneity in outcome assessments, and a paucity of longitudinal data impeded robust comparisons and generalizability.

CONCLUSIONS: DMHIs show potential as engaging and effective mental health promotional tools for young people of different ethnicities, especially when coproduced and culturally relatable. Initial data suggest that interventions facilitating near-peer mentoring, linguistic adaptation, low cost, and cultural relatability have improved engagement and effectiveness. Future research should focus on developing a consensus definition of DMHIs, exploring DMHIs in children aged <12 years, and conducting detailed qualitative and quantitative research on use factors and treatment efficacy of DMHIs for young people of different ethnicities.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024544364; https://tinyurl.com/yk5jt8yk.},
}

Humans
*Mental Disorders/therapy/ethnology
COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Ethnicity/psychology
Adolescent
Young Adult
*Mental Health
Telemedicine
*Mental Health Services

@article {pmid40193038,
year = {2025},
author = {Sadowski, J and Ostrowska, SA and Klaudel, T and Zaborska, M and Chruszcz, M and Sztangreciak-Lehun, A and Bułdak, RJ},
title = {Neuropsychiatric disorders in the course to SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, including biological pathomechanisms, psychosocial factors and long COVID-19 associated with "brain fog".},
journal = {Journal of neurovirology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40193038},
issn = {1538-2443},
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, neuropsychiatric disorders began to be observed in a significant proportion of patients, occurring at different times after infection and characterised by varying degrees of severity. This article discusses neurological and psychiatric disorders associated with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, taking into account biological pathomechanisms and psychosocial factors. The long COVID-19 along with the "brain fog" phenomenon were considered in the study. The purpose of the study is to analyse and discuss the available information from the scientific literature on the possible association between SARS-CoV-2 virus infection and the occurrence of neuropsychiatric disorders with different degrees of severity and temporal correlation. To discuss the correlation of COVID-19 with the occurrence of neuropsychiatric disorders, a systematic literature review was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Elsevier and Google Scholar. The following keywords were used when searching the materials used: "neuropsychiatric disorders", "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "NeuroCOVID", "cytokine storm" and "long COVID-19". Focusing on the characteristics of the materials and methods used, as well as the results obtained and conclusions reached in each article, 164 publications of research, meta-analysis, review and case reports were included in the study. Neuropsychiatric disorders resulting from SARS-CoV-2 virus infection are multifactorial in nature. The main elements responsible for the varied pattern of symptoms include direct and indirect central nervous system effects of the disease, individual patient conditions, psychosocial factors, severity of immune responses and severity of infection. The neuropsychiatric effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection can be divided into symptoms directly related to the neurological and psychiatric zones and mixed disorders.},
}

@article {pmid40191963,
year = {2025},
author = {Anandari, D and Kurniawan, A and Gamelia, E},
title = {Enablers and Barriers of Telemedicine in Indonesia: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/phn.13552},
pmid = {40191963},
issn = {1525-1446},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Health-seeking behavior related to the utilization of health services has experienced exceptionally noteworthy changes after the COVID-19 pandemic. That is telemedicine, which has become more commonplace amid lockdowns. The pandemic status has ended today, but since telemedicine utilization has numerous benefits, the innovation must stay accessible. This systematic review aimed to describe telemedicine utilization and which factors could become enablers and barriers.

DESIGN: The literature search for the review was conducted in November 2024. The articles reviewed were published in 2019-2024 and selected from Science Direct, Springer, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost databases.

RESULTS: The articles were research articles and used qualitative methods. Based on search results, screening process, and review articles, we describe enabling factors and barriers of telemedicine utilization through users' (patients) and providers' (health practitioners) points of view. We also define infrastructures, such as smart city development, that contribute to the development of telemedicine.

CONCLUSIONS: Future research into people's perception of telemedicine, developing telemedicine technology, and finding alternatives to getting electricity and internet connection with a low budget will promote telemedicine utilization.},
}

@article {pmid40191455,
year = {2025},
author = {Prashar, N and Mohammed, SB and Raja, NS and Mohideen, HS},
title = {Rerouting therapeutic peptides and unlocking their potential against SARS-CoV2.},
journal = {3 Biotech},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {116},
pmid = {40191455},
issn = {2190-572X},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of peptide-based therapies as an alternative to traditional pharmaceutical treatments for SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. Our review explores the role of therapeutic peptides in modulating immune responses, inhibiting viral entry, and disrupting replication. Despite challenges such as stability, bioavailability, and the rapid mutation of the virus, ongoing research and clinical trials show that peptide-based treatments are increasingly becoming integral to future viral outbreak responses. Advancements in computational modelling methods in combination with artificial intelligence will enable mass screening of therapeutic peptides and thereby, comprehending a peptide repurposing strategy similar to the small molecule repurposing. These findings suggest that peptide-based therapies play a critical and promising role in future pandemic preparedness and outbreak management.},
}

@article {pmid40191438,
year = {2025},
author = {Karimi, R and Norozirad, M and Esmaeili, F and Mansourian, M and Marateb, HR},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccination and Cardiovascular Events: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Multivariate Meta-Analysis of Preventive Benefits and Risks.},
journal = {International journal of preventive medicine},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {14},
pmid = {40191438},
issn = {2008-7802},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: To provide a detailed understanding and apply a comprehensive strategy, this study examines the association between COVID-19 vaccination and cardiovascular events. We conducted a Bayesian multivariate meta-analysis using summary data across multiple outcomes including myocardial infarction, stroke, arrhythmia, and CAD, considering potential dependencies in the data. Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods were detected for easy implementation of the Bayesian approach. Also, the sensitivity analysis of the model was done by using different priors.

METHODS: Fifteen studies were included in the systematic review, with eleven studies comparing the results between the vaccine group and the unvaccinated group. Additionally, six studies were used for further analysis to compare mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna).

RESULTS: Bayesian meta-analysis revealed a link between vaccines and CAD risk (OR, 1.70; 95% CrI: 1.11-2.57), particularly after BNT162b2 (OR, 1.64; 95% CrI: 1.06-2.55) and second dose (OR, 3.44; 95% CrI: 1.99-5.98). No increased risk of heart attack, arrhythmia, or stroke was observed post-COVID-19 vaccination. As the only noteworthy point, a protective effect on stroke (OR, 0.19; 95% CrI: 0.10-0.39) and myocardial infarction (OR, 0.003; 95% CrI: 0.001-0.006) was observed after the third dose of the vaccine.

CONCLUSIONS: Secondary analysis showed no notable disparity in cardiovascular outcomes between BNT162b2 and mRNA vaccines. The association of COVID-19 vaccination with the risk of coronary artery disease should be considered in future vaccine technologies for the next pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40190856,
year = {2025},
author = {Khan, S and Hussain Timraz, J and Al Ghamdi, NA and Metwali, NY and Yaseen, FA and Alshaqha, AM and Alamri, SH and Turkistani, H and Dwaima, A and Ali Algarni, I},
title = {COVID-19 and Its Effects on the Hepatobiliary System: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {e80231},
pmid = {40190856},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {COVID-19 encompasses a wide clinical spectrum, from mild influenza-like illness to severe pneumonia and systemic complications. There is emerging literature on hepatobiliary involvement in COVID-19, especially elevation in liver enzymes as surrogate markers of liver injury. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors within the hepatobiliary system are a portal of entry for SARS-CoV-2, after which injury may be perpetuated through hypoxia and cytokine storms. This literature review covers studies published before 2024 from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Springer, and BMC Library. The keywords used were "COVID-19", "liver", "SARS-CoV-2", "chronic liver disease", and other relevant terms to ensure a wide scope of investigation. The most common liver enzymes elevated among COVID-19 patients include aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase, all of which are associated with the severity of the disease. Chronic liver disease (CLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients have worse outcomes with increased ICU admission rates and increased mortality. COVID-19 vaccination in CLD and liver transplant recipients is very often associated with suboptimal antibody responses, adding to the risks. SARS-CoV-2 causes liver involvement through direct viral cytopathic effects, immune-mediated injury, and systemic hypoxia. Individuals with CLD are particularly vulnerable to severe illness.},
}

@article {pmid40190702,
year = {2025},
author = {Cho, JY and Prakash, T and Lam, W and Seegert, N and Samore, MH and Pavia, AT and Nelson, RE and Chaiyakunapruk, N},
title = {Understanding macroeconomic indicators affected by COVID-19 containment policies in the United States: a scoping review.},
journal = {Health affairs scholar},
volume = {3},
number = {4},
pages = {qxaf045},
pmid = {40190702},
issn = {2976-5390},
abstract = {Containment policies were essential in controlling the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, but they also introduced significant economic challenges. This scoping review aimed to examine the macroeconomic indicators used to assess COVID-19 closure and containment policies in the United States. We reviewed 42 eligible studies from 4516 records identified across PubMed, Web of Science, and EconLit. These studies explored various economic impacts, focusing on employment, labor market indicators, consumer spendings, etc., primarily using publicly available sources. During the pandemic, high-frequency data (eg, mobility and card transactions) became newly accessible and played a key role in evaluating the real-time effects of mitigation policies. Our review summarizes macroeconomic indicators investigated and provides researchers and policymakers with a list of data sources for assessment of economic impacts in the future. This review emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluations to balance public health measures with economic considerations in future pandemic responses.},
}

@article {pmid40190619,
year = {2025},
author = {Williams, KA},
title = {Advancing Health Equity and Addressing Health Disparities.},
journal = {American journal of lifestyle medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15598276251329888},
pmid = {40190619},
issn = {1559-8284},
abstract = {This article describes the factors contributing to ethnic health disparities and their impact on health equity in the United States. Historical examples of infectious diseases, such as smallpox, yellow fever, polio, HIV, and COVID-19, illustrate racial mortality differences that were eliminated by removing the diseases. In addition, disparities in cardiovascular death risk factors, including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and obesity, are examined. The adoption of whole food plant-based (WFPB) diets is proposed as a practical and culturally sensitive solution to mitigate these disparities and promote health equity. Evidence-based strategies are discussed to support implementation.},
}

@article {pmid40190037,
year = {2025},
author = {Heiser, BJ and Veyssi, A and Ghosh, D},
title = {Recent strategies for enhanced delivery of mRNA to the lungs.},
journal = {Nanomedicine (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-27},
doi = {10.1080/17435889.2025.2485669},
pmid = {40190037},
issn = {1748-6963},
abstract = {mRNA-based therapies have emerged as a transformative tool in modern medicine, gaining significant attention following their successful use in COVID-19 vaccines. Delivery to the lungs offers several compelling advantages for mRNA delivery. The lungs are one of the most vascularized organs in the body, which provides an extensive surface area that can facilitate efficient drug transport. Local delivery to the lungs bypasses gastrointestinal degradation, potentially enhancing therapeutic efficacy. In addition, the extensive capillary network of the lungs provides an ideal target for systemic delivery. However, developing effective mRNA therapies for the lungs presents significant challenges. The complex anatomy of the lungs and the body's immune response to foreign particles create barriers to delivery. This review discusses key approaches for overcoming these challenges and improving mRNA delivery to the lungs. It examines both local and systemic delivery strategies aimed at improving lung delivery while mitigating off-target effects. Although substantial progress has been made in lung-targeted mRNA therapies, challenges remain in optimizing cellular uptake and achieving therapeutic efficacy within pulmonary tissues. The continued refinement of delivery strategies that enhance lung-specific targeting while minimizing degradation is critical for the clinical success of mRNA-based pulmonary therapies.},
}

@article {pmid40189700,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, S and Sun, J and Li, H and Han, Z and Wang, T and Gao, S and Zhu, P and Chen, Y and Yan, P and Wang, M and Liu, G},
title = {Expression of SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor ACE2 in human brain and its association with Alzheimer's disease and COVID-19.},
journal = {Molecular psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40189700},
issn = {1476-5578},
support = {82071212, and 81901181//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
abstract = {It is known that infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cause coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It is widely reported that Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with the highest risk of COVID-19 infection, hospitalization and mortality. However, it remains largely unclear about the link between AD and COVID-19. ACE2 is an entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2. We consider that there may be a link between AD and COVID-19 through the expression of ACE2. Here, we summarize recent findings about the ACE2 expression especially in AD and COVID-19, and shows that (1) ACE2 shows mRNA and protein expression in human brain tissues, especially in neurons and non-neuron cells; (2) low ACE2 mRNA and protein expression are sufficient for SARS-CoV-2 entry into the human brain through the neural route (olfactory and/or vagal) and the hematogenous route; (3) SARS-CoV-2 RNA and protein were detected in brains of COVID-19 patients; (4) SARS-CoV-2 infects and replicates in human brain dependent on ACE2; (5) SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA load shows a positive association with ACE2 mRNA levels and COVID-19 severity; (6) ACE2 shows increased expression in AD compared with controls in human brain; (7) ACE2 shows increased expression in COVID-19 compared with controls in human brain; (8) ACE2 expression levels affect COVID-19 outcomes. Together, ACE2 shows significantly increased mRNA and protein expression in AD compared with controls in human brain. Consequently, the increased expression of ACE2 would facilitate infection with SARS-CoV-2, and play a role in the context of COVID-19. These findings suggest that the expression of ACE2 may partly explain the link of AD with COVID-19 infection, hospitalization and mortality.},
}

@article {pmid40189453,
year = {2025},
author = {Lorea, CF and Pressman, K and Schuler-Faccini, L},
title = {Infections during pregnancy: An ongoing threat.},
journal = {Seminars in perinatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {152075},
doi = {10.1016/j.semperi.2025.152075},
pmid = {40189453},
issn = {1558-075X},
abstract = {Congenital infections are an ongoing relevant cause of congenital and perinatal abnormalities since effective vaccination is not available for many diseases. Moreover, climate change, mutational evolution of pathogens, or their vectors associated with intense human traveling predispose to outbreaks and modification of the geographic distribution of traditionally limited infectious diseases. Here, we review the so-called TORCH infections (toxoplasmosis, others, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes) with a special emphasis on the arboviral infections (zika, dengue, chikungunya, oropouche). Although respiratory viruses are rarely transmitted through the placenta, the maternal condition itself can cause adverse effects on the developing embryo/fetus (COVID-19, influenza). Some perinatal-acquired infections will also be briefly discussed due to their relevance in the child's development. The majority of teratogenic congenital and some perinatal-acquired infections have effects on the central nervous system or sensory organs with long-lasting disabilities. Vaccines are unavailable for several teratogenic or perinatal infections, and treatment options are still limited, particularly for arboviral and other emergent diseases. Social inequalities are associated with the prevalence, fetal outcomes and long-term disabilities of these diseases. The One Health approach could be an essential way to reduce the burden of these diseases in the population.},
}

@article {pmid40189198,
year = {2025},
author = {Azeem, M and Cancemi, P and Mukhtar, F and Marino, S and Peri, E and Di Prima, G and De Caro, V},
title = {Efficacy and limitations of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines - A systematic review.},
journal = {Life sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {123610},
doi = {10.1016/j.lfs.2025.123610},
pmid = {40189198},
issn = {1879-0631},
abstract = {The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus worldwide led to the call for the development of effective and safe vaccines to contain the spread and effects of COVID-19. Using information from 40 publications, including clinical trials and observational studies from 2019 to 2024, this review assesses the effectiveness, safety, and limitations of four major vaccines: Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV), Moderna (mRNA-1273), Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT162b2), and CoronaVac. Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna's mRNA vaccines proved to be more effective than others; Moderna's vaccines showed an efficacy of 94.1 % against symptomatic infection, while Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccines showed an efficacy of up to 95 %, against severe diseases and hospitalization. These vaccinations, which included protection against Omicron and Delta variants, offered notable protection against serious illness, hospitalization, and mortality. Severe adverse events were rare while most adverse events were mild to moderate, such as headaches, fatigue, and localized reactions. In contrast, inactivated virus vaccines such as Sinopharm and CoronaVac with efficacies ranging from 50 to 79 % against symptomatic infection showed lower levels of effectiveness. In Phase 3 trial, Sinopharm showed 72.8 % efficacy, whereas CoronaVac demonstrated roughly 67 % efficacy in population against hospitalization and severe disease. Booster doses were required for adequate immunological response, especially against novel strains, as these vaccinations proved to be less effective in older populations. They showed considerable safety profiles, with mild side effects, but their low immunogenicity is concerning. This review emphasizes the importance of continuously evaluating vaccines in response to the evolving virus, essential for improving international immunization programs.},
}

@article {pmid40188989,
year = {2025},
author = {Khalaf, WS and Morgan, RN and Elkhatib, WF},
title = {Clinical microbiology and artificial intelligence: Different applications, challenges, and future prospects.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107125},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2025.107125},
pmid = {40188989},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {Conventional clinical microbiological techniques are enhanced by the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI). Comprehensive data processing and analysis enabled the development of curated datasets that has been effectively used in training different AI algorithms. Recently, a number of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) algorithms are developed and evaluated using diverse microbiological datasets. These datasets included spectral analysis (Raman and MALDI-TOF spectroscopy), microscopic images (Gram and acid fast stains), and genomic and protein sequences (whole genome sequencing (WGS) and protein data banks (PDBs)). The primary objective of these algorithms is to minimize the time, effort, and expenses linked to conventional analytical methods. Furthermore, AI algorithms are incorporated with quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models to predict novel antimicrobial agents that address the continuing surge of antimicrobial resistance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, AI algorithms played a crucial role in vaccine developments and the discovery of new antiviral agents, and introduced potential drug candidates via drug repurposing. However, despite their significant benefits, the implementation of AI encounters various challenges, including ethical considerations, the potential for bias, and errors related to data training. This review seeks to provide an overview of the most recent applications of artificial intelligence in clinical microbiology, with the intention of educating a wider audience of clinical practitioners regarding the current uses of machine learning algorithms and encouraging their implementation. Furthermore, it will discuss the challenges related to the incorporation of AI into clinical microbiology laboratories and examine future opportunities for AI within the realm of infectious disease epidemiology.},
}

@article {pmid40187944,
year = {2025},
author = {Pavia, AT},
title = {Clinical Manifestations and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children and Adolescents.},
journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.idc.2025.02.018},
pmid = {40187944},
issn = {1557-9824},
abstract = {Compared to adults, children are more likely to experience asymptomatic infections or mild-to-moderate symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection that resemble other viral infections. However, a substantial proportion of children experience severe disease; more than 2000 US children have died of COVID-19, significantly exceeding the death toll from influenza. Risk factors for severe disease include age less than 6 months and 12 to 17 years, as well as the presence of underlying conditions, especially 2 or more conditions. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children is a life-threatening post-infectious complication seen in children. Children experience post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 but at lower rates than adults.},
}

@article {pmid40187784,
year = {2025},
author = {Oliwa, J and Guleid, FH and Owek, CJ and Maluni, J and Jepkosgei, J and Nzinga, J and Were, VO and Sim, SY and Walekhwa, AW and Clapham, H and Dabak, S and Kc, S and Hadley, L and Undurraga, E and Hagedorn, BL and Hutubessy, RC},
title = {Framework to guide the use of mathematical modelling in evidence-based policy decision-making.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e093645},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-093645},
pmid = {40187784},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Policy Making ; *Health Policy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Models, Theoretical ; *Decision Making ; Developing Countries ; Pandemics ; Public Health ; Translational Research, Biomedical ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; Capacity Building ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the significance of mathematical modelling in decision-making and the limited capacity in many low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Thus, we studied how modelling supported policy decision-making processes in LMICs during the pandemic (details in a separate paper).We found that strong researcher-policymaker relationships and co-creation facilitated knowledge translation, while scepticism, political pressures and demand for quick outputs were barriers. We also noted that routine use of modelled evidence for decision-making requires sustained funding, capacity building for policy-facing modelling, robust data infrastructure and dedicated knowledge translation mechanisms.These lessons helped us co-create a framework and policy roadmap for improving the routine use of modelling evidence in public health decision-making. This communication paper describes the framework components and provides an implementation approach and evidence for the recommendations. The components include (1) funding, (2) capacity building, (3) data infrastructure, (4) knowledge translation platforms and (5) a culture of evidence use.

KEY ARGUMENTS: Our framework integrates the supply (modellers) and demand (policymakers) sides and contextual factors that enable change. It is designed to be generic and disease-agnostic for any policy decision-making that modelling could support. It is not a decision-making tool but a guiding framework to help build capacity for evidence-based policy decision-making. The target audience is modellers and policymakers, but it could include other partners and implementers in public health decision-making.

CONCLUSION: The framework was created through engagements with policymakers and researchers and reflects their real-life experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its purpose is to guide stakeholders, especially in lower-resourced settings, in building modelling capacity, prioritising efforts and creating an enabling environment for using models as part of the evidence base to inform public health decision-making. To validate its robustness and impact, further work is needed to implement and evaluate this framework in diverse settings.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Policy Making
*Health Policy
SARS-CoV-2
*Models, Theoretical
*Decision Making
Developing Countries
Pandemics
Public Health
Translational Research, Biomedical
Evidence-Based Medicine
Capacity Building

@article {pmid39800813,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohd Yusoff, H and Yew, SQ and Mohammed Nawi, A and Htwe, O and Mohd Tohit, N and Mohamed, Z and Muhamad Noordin, MA and Che Mohamed, N and Mohd, FH},
title = {Prevalence and symptoms of Long Covid-19 in the workplace.},
journal = {Occupational medicine (Oxford, England)},
volume = {75},
number = {1},
pages = {33-41},
doi = {10.1093/occmed/kqae128},
pmid = {39800813},
issn = {1471-8405},
support = {UKMP-S230424//National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Malaysia/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Prevalence ; *Workplace/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology ; Dyspnea/epidemiology/etiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Male ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The symptoms of Long coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are heterogeneous, creating uncertainty for employers regarding the diagnosis. The prevalence of Long Covid-19 in the workforce is also unknown. Furthermore, workers affected by Long Covid-19 encounter considerable difficulties in ensuring work safety and returning to their jobs due to this condition.

AIMS: This review is aimed to identify the prevalence of Long Covid-19 in the workplace and to determine the various symptoms of Long Covid-19 experienced by the workers.

METHODS: A meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the pooled estimates for the prevalence of Long Covid-19. Heterogeneity among the estimates was evaluated using the I² statistic.

RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of Long Covid-19 among workers across the 11 studies was 38% (95% CI 23-56). A total of 43 symptoms associated with Long Covid-19 were identified in the workplace, with the top five symptoms being dyspnoea at moderate activity (51%, 95% CI 39-62), mental symptoms (38%, 95% CI 6-87), dyspnoea at mild activity (35%, 95% CI 25-47), fatigue (26%, 95% CI 3-78) and effort intolerance (24%, 95% CI 15-35).

CONCLUSIONS: The review indicates a significant burden of long-lasting symptoms within the workforce. The top five reported symptoms of Long Covid-19 were dyspnoea during mild and moderate activities, mental symptoms, fatigue and effort intolerance.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Prevalence
*Workplace/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology
Dyspnea/epidemiology/etiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Male

@article {pmid40187234,
year = {2025},
author = {Qin, J and Wang, G and Han, D},
title = {Benefits of melatonin on mortality in severe-to-critical COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {100638},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinsp.2025.100638},
pmid = {40187234},
issn = {1980-5322},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis aimed to determine the efficacy of melatonin on mortality in patients with severe-to-critical illness COVID-19.

METHODS: A systematic search was made of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and clinicaltrials.gov, without language restrictions. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) on the treatment of severe-to-critical COVID-19 with melatonin, compared with placebo or blank, were reviewed. Studies were pooled to Odds Ratios (ORs), with 95 % Confidence Intervals (95 % CIs).

RESULTS: Three RCTs (enrolling 451 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Melatonin showed a significant effect on in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.19, 95 % CI 0.05 to 0.74; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS: Melatonin significantly reduced in-hospital mortality in patients with severe-to-critical COVID-19. Melatonin should be considered for severe-to-critical COVID-19 patients.},
}

@article {pmid40186706,
year = {2025},
author = {Steidtmann, D and McBride, S and Mishkind, M and Shore, J},
title = {From Couch to Click: Opportunities and Challenges of Hybrid Work Models in Mental Health Care.},
journal = {Current psychiatry reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40186706},
issn = {1535-1645},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hybrid work is common in mental health care following the COVID-19 pandemic. Although widespread, little is known about how to optimize it. We review relevant literature for patients, employees and mental health systems, and offer guidance on navigating tradeoffs in the application of hybrid work.

RECENT FINDINGS: Patients often prefer telehealth visits due to convenience, but in-person visits are sometimes clinically indicated or preferred. The mental health workforce appreciates reduced commutes and flexibility, though may risk increased isolation and work fatigue. Mental health systems may realize cost savings, although these may create challenges for accommodating patient in-person needs or employee preferences. Hybrid work in mental health care presents a promising path forward but requires thoughtful tradeoff management. It is unlikely that all benefits of hybrid work can be realized at once. Settings may benefit from identifying top priorities and designing hybrid work arrangements accordingly.},
}

@article {pmid40186505,
year = {2025},
author = {Menezes Pinto, N and das Chagas Mendonça, MR and da Silva Santos, J and Dos Santos Ferraz, CM and Santos Oliveira, D and Dos Santos, LVB and de Souza Araújo, AA and José Quintans Júnior, L and Lyra Júnior, D and de Oliveira Filho, AD and Lira, AAM and Russo Serafini, M and de Souza Nunes, R},
title = {Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Intranasal Administration as a route for treatment - A Patent Review.},
journal = {Pharmaceutical development and technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-33},
doi = {10.1080/10837450.2025.2487575},
pmid = {40186505},
issn = {1097-9867},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of today's marketed treatments for respiratory infections. As a primary site of infection, the upper airways may represent a key access route for the control and treatment for these conditions. The present study aims to explore and identify, through a patent review, the novelty of therapies for COVID-19 that use the intranasal route for drug administration. A search was carried out in Wipo and Espacenet, using the descriptors "COVID-19 OR SARS-CoV 2" AND "treatment OR therapy" AND NOT "vaccine OR immunizing" and the classification "A61K9/0043". Of the 151 patents identified, we excluded 73 duplicates, and 36 documents that meet the criteria adopted for exclusion (not nasally administered formulations, vaccines, post COVID-19 treatments, uncertain route of administration or form). We identified 78 unique patents on patent databases, of which 42 were selected for this review. The documents revealed the use of the intranasal pathway not only for drug repositioning but also for using plant-derived and biological molecules. Overall, the new formulations explore a variety of known drugs and natural products incorporated in drug carrier systems and devices for drug delivery and administration. Thus, the intranasal route remains a promising strategy for drug delivery, offering direct access to the primary infection site and warranting further exploration.},
}

@article {pmid40186353,
year = {2025},
author = {Casmil, IC and Jin, J and Won, EJ and Huang, C and Liao, S and Cha-Molstad, H and Blakney, AK},
title = {The advent of clinical self-amplifying RNA vaccines.},
journal = {Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.03.060},
pmid = {40186353},
issn = {1525-0024},
abstract = {Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) technology is an emerging platform for vaccine development, offering significant advantages over conventional mRNA vaccines. By enabling intracellular amplification of RNA, saRNA facilitates robust antigen expression at lower doses, thereby enhancing both immunogenicity and cost-effectiveness. This review examines the latest advancements in saRNA vaccine development, highlighting its applications in combating infectious diseases, including viral pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and emerging zoonotic threats. We discuss the design and optimization of saRNA vectors to maximize antigen expression while minimizing adverse immune responses. Recent studies demonstrating the safety, efficacy, and scalability of saRNA-based vaccines in clinical settings are also discussed. We address challenges related to delivery systems, stability, and manufacturing, along with novel strategies being developed to mitigate these challenges. As the global demand for rapid, flexible, and scalable vaccine platforms grows, saRNA presents a promising solution with enhanced potency and durability. This review emphasizes the transformative potential of saRNA vaccines to shape the future of immunization strategies, particularly in response to pandemics and other global health threats.},
}

@article {pmid40185557,
year = {2025},
author = {Ching, PR and Pedersen, LL},
title = {Severe Pneumonia.},
journal = {The Medical clinics of North America},
volume = {109},
number = {3},
pages = {705-720},
doi = {10.1016/j.mcna.2024.12.011},
pmid = {40185557},
issn = {1557-9859},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pneumonia/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology/microbiology/drug therapy ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; Severity of Illness Index ; Anti-Infective Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Severe pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Being a complex condition caused by a variety of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, it requires intensive care. A combination of early initiation of antimicrobial therapy and adjunctive nonantimicrobial interventions improve patient outcomes. This article reviews the most recent data on the epidemiology, microbiology, diagnosis, and management of severe pneumonia.},
}

Humans
*Pneumonia/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology/microbiology/drug therapy
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
Severity of Illness Index
Anti-Infective Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40184864,
year = {2025},
author = {Deloncle, R and Guillard, O and Pineau, A},
title = {Copper in human health: From COVID 19 to neurodegenerative diseases.},
journal = {Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology : organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS)},
volume = {89},
number = {},
pages = {127636},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtemb.2025.127636},
pmid = {40184864},
issn = {1878-3252},
abstract = {Copper (Cu) exists in two oxidation states Cu+I and Cu+II yielding formation of enzymes involved in biological processes. In higher concentrations, by oxidative process and ROS production, Cu is toxic towards plants, humans and animals livers as observed in Wilson disease or sheep scrapie. Fighting according to the Fenton reaction against bacteria and viruses, has been proposed as a mean of combatting nosocomial diseases and complementary to COVID19 vaccination. In humans, Cu is stocked in liver, muscle or bound to brain protein as ß-APP, tau-protein, α-synuclein, ubiquitin or prion which present antioxidant properties when Cu-bonded. In abnormal ß-sheet conformation, they can trigger neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer(AD), Parkinson(PD) and ALS. In these diseases, blood copper increase correlated with brain copper decrease has been described. In AD, abnormal D-serine has been detected in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. D-glutamate and D-alanine blood levels have been found in AD and could also be controlled with Cu and ceruloplasmin in a possible disease screening test. This abnormal D-conformation might result from epimerization of physiologically L-conformation brain peptides into protease-resistant D-enantiomers. This has previously been experimentally demonstrated for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in a free Cu reductive medium with UV-induced free radicals. The Cu brain protective effect against free radicals was restored with cupric addition in oxidizing medium. Cupric supplementation in the brain, might restore Cu protection and slow down neurodegenerative processes. To lower side effects, Cu amino-acid complexes able to cross the blood brain barrier might be suggested for a Cu transfer to the brain.},
}

@article {pmid40184638,
year = {2025},
author = {McCosker, LK and Dyer, B and Sudarmana, T and Seale, H and Ware, RS},
title = {COVID-19 vaccination uptake in people experiencing homelessness during the first three years of the global COVID-19 vaccination effort: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {53},
number = {},
pages = {127050},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127050},
pmid = {40184638},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {There are complex barriers to vaccination, including COVID-19 vaccination, in people experiencing homelessness. Consequently, it is likely COVID-19 vaccination uptake in this vulnerable population is lower than in general populations. This systematic review and meta-analysis reports COVID-19 vaccination uptake in people experiencing homelessness, including in comparison to general populations, in literature published during the first three years of the global COVID-19 vaccination effort. Searches were conducted on eight electronic databases. Peer-reviewed studies from high-income countries available in English and in full-text were considered for inclusion. Studies were considered up to 31 December 2023. In total 1884 studies were retrieved and, after removal of duplicates, 1167 were screened. Thirty-one studies were included in this review. For studies reporting uptake of either any, or first, COVID-19 vaccine a random effects meta-analysis was used to pool coverage estimates. It included 28 first vaccine dose coverage estimates from 18 studies including 104,139 vaccinated individuals in 308,253 participants. The pooled estimate for first dose vaccine coverage in people experiencing homelessness was 43 % (95 % CI: 35 %, 51 %). The 95 % prediction interval was (0, 88 %). Uptake of subsequent doses was heterogeneous and was reported narratively. Uptake of the second dose ranged upwards from 31.3 %, and uptake of the third dose was reported in one study as 7.2 %. COVID-19 vaccination uptake in people experiencing homelessness is lower than in general populations. Disparities in uptake persisted when comparing uptake at regional/state/national levels, at multiple timepoints, and in studies focused on different sub-populations including veterans. This is problematic, considering people experiencing homelessness are more likely to have poorer COVID-19-associated outcomes. It is important to recognise people experiencing homelessness are an at-risk, hard-to-reach group for vaccination, and vaccination strategies should be targeted to this population to improve uptake.},
}

@article {pmid40184086,
year = {2025},
author = {Koh, AR and Kim, HW and Lee, YJ and Jo, HJ and Chae, GE and Kim, DW and Ha, IH and Kim, D},
title = {Integrative Korean medicine for recurrent lumbar disc herniation after coronavirus disease vaccination: A case report and literature review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {1},
pages = {e41079},
pmid = {40184086},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *Intervertebral Disc Displacement/etiology/therapy/surgery ; Adult ; Male ; Lumbar Vertebrae/surgery ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Recurrence ; *Integrative Medicine/methods ; Acupuncture Therapy/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Many side effects have been associated with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine. While most adverse events (AEs) are mild, serious adverse events are occasionally observed in the neurological and musculoskeletal systems. Nevertheless, articles reporting such serious adverse events after COVID-19 vaccination are limited, and only few case reports with detailed descriptions are available in the literature.

PATIENT CONCERNS: Herein, we report the case of a 41-year-old male office worker who developed symptoms of recurrent disc herniation 2 days after COVID-19 vaccination; the patient had no other factors that may have caused the recurrence of disc herniation, such as excessively vigorous activities, following vaccination.

DIAGNOSES: Consequently, the patient was suspected of having cauda equina syndrome owing to recurrent lumbar disc herniation, and he underwent surgery.

INTERVENTIONS: The patient underwent integrative Korean medicine treatment, including acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, and Chuna manual therapy, for 8 months postoperatively.

OUTCOMES: After treatment, the patient's postoperative complications improved; the Numerical Rating Scale score changed from 5 to 1, and the Oswestry Disability Index score changed from 30 to 3. A literature review showed various cases of adverse events related to musculoskeletal inflammation or immune-mediated pathogenesis.

LESSONS: This paper confirmed the possibility that COVID vaccination is related to lumbar disc herniation recurrence and the possibility of integrative Korean medicine as an effective treatment option after lumbar disc herniation surgery.},
}

Humans
*Intervertebral Disc Displacement/etiology/therapy/surgery
Adult
Male
Lumbar Vertebrae/surgery
COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Recurrence
*Integrative Medicine/methods
Acupuncture Therapy/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Vaccination/adverse effects

@article {pmid40183860,
year = {2025},
author = {Weckler, BC and Kutzinski, M and Vogelmeier, CF and Schmeck, B},
title = {Multiorgan sequelae following non-COVID-19 respiratory infections: a review.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40183860},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: While numerous studies have documented severe and long-term health impacts of COVID-19 infections on various organs, the prolonged multisystemic implications of other acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are poorly understood. This review therefore analyzed currently available studies about these sequelae of ARIs excluding COVID-19.

MAIN BODY: Multiple pathogens causing ARIs are associated with significant long-lasting impairments across various organ systems. Cardiovascular events occur in 10-35% of patients following ARIs, with an elevated risk persisting for 10 years. The stroke incidence ratio increases significantly after ARIs up to 12.3. Pulmonary sequelae are common, including abnormal lung function in 54%, parenchymal opacification in 51%, lung fibrosis in 33-62%, asthma in 30%, and bronchiectasis in 24% of patients. The risk of developing dementia is increased 2.2-fold. Posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue occur in 15-43%, 15-36%, 14-62%, and 27-75% of patients, respectively. 28-day mortality from CAP with (versus no) additional cardiovascular event is increased to 36% (versus 10%). Long-term mortality from CAP (versus no CAP) remains elevated for years post-infection, with a 1-year, 5-year, and 7-year mortality rate of 17% (versus 4%), 43% (versus 19%), and 53% (versus 24%), respectively. Patients´ quality of life is significantly reduced, with 17% receiving invalidity pensions and 22% retiring within 4 years of severe ARIs.

CONCLUSION: Non-COVID-19 ARIs are associated with clinically relevant, frequent, and long-term sequelae involving multiple organ systems. Further prospective studies are needed.},
}

@article {pmid40183837,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghajarzadeh, M and Rastkar, M and Mowry, EM and Nourbakhsh, B},
title = {Clinical and radiological activity after extended interval and standard interval dosing of ocrelizumab in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40183837},
issn = {1590-3478},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ocrelizumab is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that is highly effective in reducing MS clinical and radiological activity. The standard dosing regimen consists of infusing 600 mg of ocrelizumab every six months. However, concerns about increasing risks of infection and lowered vaccine response, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompted clinicians to extend the dosing interval between ocrelizumab infusions for some patients. Several observational studies have compared the effects of extended-interval dosing (EID) and standardinterval dosing (SID) of ocrelizumab on MS relapse rate and MRI activity. METHOD: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the current literature to summarize studies comparing ocrelizumab EID and SID on MS disease activity in patients with MS. Two independent reviewers searched PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar on the 1st of June 2024.

RESULTS: Our systematic search revealed 348 records, and after deleting duplicates, 29 records remained. Twenty-eight full texts were evaluated; ultimately, 16 studies remained for systematic review. In this meta-analysis, extended interval dosing (EID) was defined variably across studies, with some considering even a one-month delay as EID. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) for clinical and MRI activity, comparing ocrelizumab EID to SID groups, were estimated as 1.04 (95%CI: 0.67-1.6, I2=30%, P=0.21) and 1.31(95%CI: 0.90-1.92) (I2=15%, P=0.32), respectively.  CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that ocrelizumab EID is not associated with greater odds of clinical and radiological disease activity in patients with MS.},
}

@article {pmid40183651,
year = {2025},
author = {Kang, HM and Lee, TJ and Park, SE and Choi, SH},
title = {Pertussis in the Post-COVID-19 Era: Resurgence, Diagnosis, and Management.},
journal = {Infection & chemotherapy},
volume = {57},
number = {1},
pages = {13-30},
doi = {10.3947/ic.2024.0117},
pmid = {40183651},
issn = {2093-2340},
abstract = {Pertussis is endemic worldwide, with epidemics occurring every 2 to 5 years despite a high vaccination coverage. After limited circulation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, pertussis cases have increased rapidly worldwide since mid-late 2023, returning to pre-pandemic patterns. In Korea, 90 cases of pertussis were reported from April 2020 to May 2023, with elderly individuals aged ≥65 years accounting for 48.9%. Pertussis cases have increased sharply since June 2024, showing a nationwide epidemic, with a large increase among adolescents aged 13-15 years. As of August 2024, the national incidence rate of pertussis was estimated to be 37.75 per 100,000 population, with the highest incidence of 526.2 per 100,000 population in 13-year-olds. In Europe, during 2023-2024, an increase in pertussis incidence among infants was observed, along with large increases in 10-19-year-olds. In China, the number of reported cases of pertussis has increased rapidly since late 2023, with an age shift to older children, increase of vaccine escape, and a marked increase in the prevalence of macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis. The recent global resurgence of pertussis is due to decreased opportunities for boosting immunity by natural infection during the COVID-19 pandemic in combination with waning of immunity-induced pertussis vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40182387,
year = {2025},
author = {Castillo, JL and Medel Sánchez, A and Miranda Lugo, DM and Núñez Muratalla, N and Agredano Chávez, CP and Cervantes Carrillo, JM and Martínez Sánchez, GV and Rios Torres, M and Aguilar García, K and Rubio Alfaro, L and Montelongo Quevedo, M and Flores Valdés, JR},
title = {Efficacy of Thromboprophylaxis in Preventing Thrombotic Events in Pediatric Patients With COVID-19 or Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {e80002},
pmid = {40182387},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, including multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but serious condition characterized by a proinflammatory and hypercoagulable state. MIS-C has been linked to an elevated risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), necessitating a focus on thromboprophylaxis to prevent potentially fatal complications in pediatric patients. This systematic review aims to evaluate the association between COVID-19/MIS-C and thromboembolism and to assess the efficacy of thromboprophylaxis protocols in reducing thrombotic events and mortality in children. A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane, and Science Direct databases. Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case-control studies reporting on thromboprophylaxis, thrombotic events, and associated outcomes in pediatric patients (<21 years) with COVID-19 and/or MIS-C were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of included studies. Primary outcomes were the incidence of thrombotic events and mortality, while secondary outcomes included bleeding events, clinical recovery, and changes in coagulation markers. Of the 375 articles identified, three studies (n=771 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Thromboprophylaxis protocols primarily included low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) such as enoxaparin and antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, with varied doses and treatment durations. Thrombotic events were reported in 3.3% of patients, with a higher incidence in MIS-C cases compared to COVID-19 alone. Prophylactic anticoagulation was effective in preventing thrombotic events in high-risk patients without increasing the risk of major bleeding. The studies emphasized individualized treatment approaches based on risk factors such as elevated D-dimer levels, obesity, prolonged immobilization, and central venous catheter presence. All studies reported a low mortality rate, ranging from 0% to 2.2%, highlighting the potential benefit of thromboprophylaxis in this population. Pediatric patients with MIS-C or severe COVID-19 are at an increased risk of thrombotic complications due to their heightened proinflammatory and hypercoagulable states. Thromboprophylaxis using enoxaparin and aspirin appears effective in reducing thrombotic events and mortality in these patients. Individualized protocols based on clinical risk factors and D-dimer levels are critical to optimizing outcomes while minimizing bleeding risks. Standardized, evidence-based guidelines are needed to refine thromboprophylaxis strategies and determine the optimal duration of therapy in this vulnerable population. Further research is essential to better understand the role of coagulation markers in guiding treatment cessation and improving outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40182319,
year = {2025},
author = {Odey, AF and Arikpo, II and Meremikwu, J and Otonkue, MA and Chukwu, NN and Ita-Lincoln, F},
title = {Tolerability of facemask during physical exercises during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {610},
pmid = {40182319},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Available evidence supports the use of facemasks by all groups to prevent respiratory infections, particularly severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, it is not clear whether these masks can be used safely during various intensities of physical exercise.

AIM: To evaluate the impact of different types of facemasks on oxygen saturation, oxygen uptake, rate of perceived exertion and performance during different physical exercises.

SETTING: Healthcare databases.

METHOD: We searched for articles published between 2020 to 05 September 2022. There was no restriction in age, language or setting. Electronic databases including The Cochrane Library - Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Database of systematic review and EPOC; MEDLINE; EMBASE were searched for articles for the period stated above. Risk of Bias in included studies was assessed using Cochrane risk of bias tool for RCTs.

RESULTS: Twenty-four randomised control trials with cross-over design were included. There was a total of 617 participants (373 males and 244 females). None of studies reported on prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection by mask. The pooled effect estimate shows that wearing surgical mask did not affect oxygen saturation and oxygen uptake. Masks are tolerated during mild and moderate exercise, but reduce maximal exercise capacity. Children tolerate masks for submaximal exercise better than adults.

CONCLUSION: During physical exercises, masks should be used with caution by healthy adults and children but should be avoided by elderly and ill patients.

CONTRIBUTION: This review offers current evidence on tolerability of facemask during physical exercises.},
}

@article {pmid39531390,
year = {2025},
author = {Jernigan, VBB and Maudrie, TL and Lopez, SV},
title = {Stagnating Life Expectancy Among American Indians and Alaska Natives: Understanding the Drivers and Recommendations for Research, Policy, and Practice.},
journal = {Annual review of public health},
volume = {46},
number = {1},
pages = {193-211},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-publhealth-071723-110657},
pmid = {39531390},
issn = {1545-2093},
mesh = {Humans ; *Life Expectancy/ethnology/trends ; *Alaska Natives/statistics & numerical data ; United States/epidemiology ; *Indians, North American/statistics & numerical data ; *Health Policy ; Health Status Disparities ; },
abstract = {Life expectancy among American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) has declined from 72 years in 2019 to 68 years in 2021. This current life expectancy for AI/ANs is equivalent to the overall life expectancy in the United States population in the 1940s. The significant and persistent nature of AI/AN health inequities, and the lack of clarity around what is driving them, requires urgent action. The purpose of this article is threefold. First, we provide a comprehensive conceptual framework of health that presents Indigenous perspectives of health and recognizes settler colonialism as a key structural determinant of the health of AI/ANs. Second, we underscore the importance of Tribal self-determination and sovereignty in public health research and practice and identify successful initiatives centering these efforts. Finally, we conclude with recommendations for future research, practice, and policy.},
}

Humans
*Life Expectancy/ethnology/trends
*Alaska Natives/statistics & numerical data
United States/epidemiology
*Indians, North American/statistics & numerical data
*Health Policy
Health Status Disparities

@article {pmid40182293,
year = {2025},
author = {Yuan, J and Chen, J and Zhao, Q and Xu, J and Li, X and Zhang, Y and Li, H and Chen, X and Zhao, L and Zhang, X and Li, H and Chen, K},
title = {Advancements in the application and research of baculovirus vector vaccines for respiratory diseases in human.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1558482},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2025.1558482},
pmid = {40182293},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The rapid spread of respiratory diseases, such as influenza, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), poses significant challenges to global public health systems. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy to mitigate these threats. Baculovirus Expression Vector Systems (BEVS) have emerged as a promising platform for vaccine development, addressing key limitations of traditional methods, including complex production processes, lengthy timelines, and high costs. BEVS offers distinct advantages, such as enhanced efficacy, safety, cost-effectiveness, and scalability for large-scale manufacturing. This review highlights the application of BEVS in combating respiratory diseases by analyzing preclinical studies, clinical trials, and approved vaccines targeting these pathogens. It also examines recent advancements in BEVS technology, emphasizing its capacity to accelerate vaccine development and respond to emerging respiratory threats. By focusing on the synergy between BEVS and respiratory disease prevention, this review provides valuable insights to guide global vaccine innovation.},
}

@article {pmid40182208,
year = {2025},
author = {Choi, KA and Fitzek, S},
title = {The evolution of health services research in Austria: a bibliometric exploration of trends, themes, and collaborations.},
journal = {Frontiers in health services},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1501035},
doi = {10.3389/frhs.2025.1501035},
pmid = {40182208},
issn = {2813-0146},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health services research (HSR) in Austria has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, reflecting the evolving need for a healthcare system that effectively addresses the broader challenges of an increasingly strained healthcare environment. Mapping the progression and focus areas of this research is essential for guiding policy-making and future studies.

OBJECTIVES: This bibliometric study aims to chart the evolution of Austrian HSR between 2000 and 2024. By examining publication trends, thematic priorities, collaboration networks, and research impacts, the analysis provides evidence-based insights that inform healthcare strategies and highlight research gaps.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, which targeted peer-reviewed articles published from 2000-July 31, 2024. In total, 81 articles met the inclusion criteria. Bibliometric methods, including coauthorship mapping, keyword co-occurrence analysis, and citation tracking, were used to identify core research themes, key authors, and institutional collaborations.

RESULTS: Annual publication outputs increased notably from 2019 to 2020, corresponding to the heightened focus on healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. The major themes included mental health, patient care, public health, and disease management, with a growing interest in telemedicine and digital solutions. The Medical University of Vienna led publication activity, and strong international ties were evident, particularly with institutions in the UK and Germany. Citation analyses revealed varied research impacts, with some highly cited studies influencing policy debates and clinical practices.

CONCLUSIONS: Austrian HSR has a dynamic trajectory, reflecting evolving national priorities and global healthcare challenges. Continued efforts are needed to address gaps involving underserved populations, integrate digital health technologies, and enhance economic evaluations of primary care reforms. Furthermore, better standardization in the reporting of funding sources and conflicts of interest is recommended to strengthen methodological rigor and public trust. By fostering collaboration, transparency, and comprehensive evaluations, HSR can more effectively shape equitable healthcare policies in Austria.},
}

@article {pmid40181980,
year = {2025},
author = {Alrasheed, AR and Awadalla, M and Alnajran, H and Alammash, MH and Almaqati, AM and Qadri, I and Alosaimi, B},
title = {Harnessing immunotherapeutic molecules and diagnostic biomarkers as human-derived adjuvants for MERS-CoV vaccine development.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1538301},
doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2025.1538301},
pmid = {40181980},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology ; *Adjuvants, Immunologic ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/prevention & control/diagnosis ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; Biomarkers ; Animals ; Immunotherapy/methods ; },
abstract = {The pandemic potential of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) highlights the critical need for effective vaccines due to its high fatality rate of around 36%. In this review, we identified a variety of immunotherapeutic molecules and diagnostic biomarkers that could be used in MERS vaccine development as human-derived adjuvants. We identified immune molecules that have been incorporated into standard clinical diagnostics such as CXCL10/IP10, CXCL8/IL-8, CCL5/RANTES, IL-6, and the complement proteins Ca3 and Ca5. Utilization of different human monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of MERS-CoV patients demonstrates promising outcomes in combatting MERS-CoV infections in vivo, such as hMS-1, 4C2H, 3B11-N, NBMS10-FC, HR2P-M2, SAB-301, M336, LCA60, REGN3051, REGN3048, MCA1, MERs-4, MERs-27, MERs-gd27, and MERs-gd33. Host-derived adjuvants such as CCL28, CCL27, RANTES, TCA3, and GM-CSF have shown significant improvements in immune responses, underscoring their potential to bolster both systemic and mucosal immunity. In conclusion, we believe that host-derived adjuvants like HBD-2, CD40L, and LL-37 offer significant advantages over synthetic options in vaccine development, underscoring the need for clinical trials to validate their efficacy.},
}

Humans
*Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology
*Adjuvants, Immunologic
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/prevention & control/diagnosis
*Vaccine Development/methods
Biomarkers
Animals
Immunotherapy/methods

@article {pmid40181546,
year = {2025},
author = {Hackett, NR and Crystal, RG},
title = {Four Decades of Adenovirus Gene Transfer Vectors: History and Current Use.},
journal = {Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.03.062},
pmid = {40181546},
issn = {1525-0024},
abstract = {Replication deficient adenovirus-based gene therapy vectors were the first vectors demonstrated to mediate effective, robust in vivo gene transfer. The ease of genome engineering, large carrying capacity and methods for large scale vector production made adenoviral vectors a primary focus in the early days of gene therapy. Many vector modifications such as capsid engineering, regulated and cell-specific transgene expression were first demonstrated in adenovirus (Ad) vectors. However, early human studies proved disappointing with safety and efficacy issues arising from anti-vector innate and acquired immune responses. While many gene therapy researchers moved to other vectors, others recognized that the immune response and limited duration of transgene expression were useful in the correct context. The striking example of this was the use of several effective adenovirus vectors engineered as COVID-19 vaccines estimated to have been administered to 2 billion people. In addition to vaccines, current applications of Ad vectors relate to anti-cancer therapies, tissue remodeling and gene editing.},
}

@article {pmid40181408,
year = {2025},
author = {Kisa, A and Kisa, S},
title = {Health conspiracy theories: a scoping review of drivers, impacts, and countermeasures.},
journal = {International journal for equity in health},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {93},
pmid = {40181408},
issn = {1475-9276},
mesh = {Humans ; *Trust/psychology ; COVID-19 ; *Health Behavior ; Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health-related conspiracy theories undermine trust in healthcare, exacerbate health inequities, and contribute to harmful health behaviors such as vaccine hesitancy and reliance on unproven treatments. These theories disproportionately impact marginalized populations, further widening health disparities. Their rapid spread, amplified by social media algorithms and digital misinformation networks, exacerbates public health challenges, highlighting the urgency of understanding their prevalence, key drivers, and mitigation strategies.

METHODS: This scoping review synthesizes research on health-related conspiracy theories, focusing on their prevalence, impacts on health behaviors and outcomes, contributing factors, and counter-measures. Using Arksey and O'Malley's framework and the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, a systematic search of six databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus) was conducted. Studies were screened using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, with thematic synthesis categorizing findings across diverse health contexts.

RESULTS: The review revealed pervasive conspiracy beliefs surrounding HIV/AIDS, vaccines, pharmaceutical companies, and COVID-19, linked to reduced vaccine uptake, increased mistrust in health authorities, and negative mental health outcomes such as anxiety and depression. Key drivers included sociopolitical distrust, cognitive biases, low scientific literacy, and the unchecked proliferation of misinformation on digital platforms. Promising countermeasures included inoculation messaging, media literacy interventions, and two-sided refutational techniques. However, their long-term effectiveness remains uncertain, as few studies assess their sustained impact across diverse sociopolitical contexts.

CONCLUSION: Health-related conspiracy theories present a growing public health challenge that undermines global health equity. While several interventions show potential, further research is needed to evaluate their effectiveness across diverse populations and contexts. Targeted efforts to rebuild trust in healthcare systems and strengthen critical health literacy are essential to mitigate the harmful effects of these conspiracy beliefs.},
}

Humans
*Trust/psychology
COVID-19
*Health Behavior
Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
Public Health

@article {pmid40180657,
year = {2025},
author = {Stoffers-Winterling, JM and Wiegand, HF and Broll, J and Schäfer, SK and Adorjan, K and Tüscher, O and Lieb, K},
title = {[The COVID-19 pandemic in Germany: mental health trajectories, resilient and vulnerable groups].},
journal = {Der Nervenarzt},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40180657},
issn = {1433-0407},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has probably been the biggest health crisis of the twenty-first century to date. For many people it meant prolonged exposure to psychologically relevant stressors and simultaneously limited coping possibilities.

AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this review is to present a summary of the current state of knowledge on the course of mental health in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Using longitudinal and repeated cross-sectional surveys, key findings are summarized and vulnerability and resilience factors are identified.

RESULTS: Large proportions of the German population reported at least temporary effects on their mental well-being in the sense of increased anxiety and depression symptoms as well as reduced life satisfaction, particularly among women, children and adolescents. At the same time, resilient courses were observed in most cases, i.e., most people managed to maintain their mental health during the pandemic. Vulnerability factors included female gender, younger age and financial difficulties. In contrast, a positive appraisal style, cognitive flexibility, social support, self-efficacy beliefs and, at a societal level, social cohesion and institutional trust were reported as important resilience factors.

DISCUSSION: The vulnerability and resilience factors identified offer concrete starting points for promoting pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid40179348,
year = {2025},
author = {Bitenga Alexandre, A and Mukwege, A and Mutondo, KM and Biaba Apasa, R and Mugisho, G and Amisi, C and Maroyi, R and Mujumbe Salama, P and Mukwege, D},
title = {Bridging theory and praxis in the comprehensive treatment of conflict-related sexual violence in the Great Lakes Region of Africa.},
journal = {Global public health},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {2486440},
doi = {10.1080/17441692.2025.2486440},
pmid = {40179348},
issn = {1744-1706},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sex Offenses/psychology ; Female ; Qualitative Research ; *Survivors/psychology ; Adult ; Interviews as Topic ; Rwanda ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Uganda ; *Armed Conflicts ; Middle Aged ; Burundi ; Central African Republic ; },
abstract = {ABSTRACTThe holistic care model was designed to address the multifaceted medical, psychosocial, socioeconomic, and legal needs of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). However, the extent to which this model aligns with survivors' needs has largely been shaped by the perspectives of service providers. This multi-sited qualitative study is based on 19 in-depth interviews with female survivors from five conflict-affected countries in the Great Lakes region - namely, the DRC, Burundi, Rwanda, the Central African Republic, and Uganda. It explores their experiences and perspectives on the model. The study challenges power dynamics in knowledge production by amplifying the voices of survivors themselves. The semi-structured interviews, conducted online via Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, reveal that survivors' medical, psychosocial, socioeconomic, and legal needs are deeply interconnected. These needs must, therefore, be addressed simultaneously - if survivors choose to do so - in order to achieve comprehensive recovery from the multifaceted consequences of CRSV. While the model aligns with survivors' primary needs, access to its services remains problematic across the region due to a variety of technical, cultural, epistemic, geographical, and financial barriers, creating a significant gap between the model as a 'theory' and its practical implementation on the ground.},
}

Humans
*Sex Offenses/psychology
Female
Qualitative Research
*Survivors/psychology
Adult
Interviews as Topic
Rwanda
COVID-19/epidemiology
Uganda
*Armed Conflicts
Middle Aged
Burundi
Central African Republic

@article {pmid40178994,
year = {2025},
author = {Fekrvand, S and Saleki, K and Abolhassani, H and Almasi-Hashiani, A and Hakimelahi, A and Zargarzadeh, N and Yekaninejad, MS and Rezaei, N},
title = {COVID-19 infection in inborn errors of immunity and their phenocopies: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Infectious diseases (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-35},
doi = {10.1080/23744235.2025.2483339},
pmid = {40178994},
issn = {2374-4243},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are congenital disorders of the immune system. Due to impaired immune system, they are at a higher risk to develop a more severe COVID-19 course compared to general population.

OBJECTIVES: Herein, we aimed to systematically review various aspects of IEI patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, we performed a meta-analysis to determine the frequency of COVID-19 in patients with different IEI.

METHODS: Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus were searched introducing terms related to IEI and COVID-19.

RESULTS: 3646 IEI cases with a history of COVID-19 infection were enrolled. The majority of patients had critical infections (1013 cases, 27.8%). The highest frequency of critical and severe cases was observed in phenocopies of IEI (95.2%), defects in intrinsic and innate immunity (69.4%) and immune dysregulation (23.9%). 446 cases (12.2%) succumbed to the disease and the highest mortality was observed in IEI phenocopies (34.6%). COVID-19 frequency in immunodeficient patients was 11.9% (95% CI: 8.3 to 15.5%) with innate immunodeficiency having the highest COVID-19 frequency [34.1% (12.1 to 56.0%)]. COVID-19 case fatality rate among IEI patients was estimated as 5.4% (95% CI: 3.5-8.3%, n = 8 studies, I2 = 17.5%).

CONCLUSION: IEI with underlying defects in specific branches of the immune system responding to RNA virus infection experience a higher frequency and mortality of COVID-19 infection. Increasing awareness about these entities and underlying genetic defects, adherence to prophylactic strategies and allocating more clinical attention to these patients could lead to a decrease in COVID-19 frequency and mortality in these patients.},
}

@article {pmid40178439,
year = {2025},
author = {Singer, T},
title = {A neuroscience perspective on the plasticity of the social and relational brain.},
journal = {Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nyas.15319},
pmid = {40178439},
issn = {1749-6632},
abstract = {Over the past two decades, the fields of social and contemplative neurosciences have made significant strides. Initial research utilizing fMRI identified neuronal networks involved in empathy, mentalizing, and compassion, as well as complex interactions among these networks. Subsequent studies shifted to testing the plasticity of these social skills via different types of mindfulness- or compassion-based mental training programs, demonstrating brain plasticity, enhanced social capacities and motivation, as well as improved mental health and overall well-being. Next, researchers developed scalable evidence-based online mental training programs to address the growing levels of mental health problems and loneliness, both exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Innovative approaches, such as novel relational partner-based practices and online app-based dyadic training programs, offer scalable solutions to counteract ongoing societal and mental health deterioration. Current studies are now applying the above findings to support resilience building within diverse domains of society and professional populations-such as healthcare workers and teachers-at high risk of burn-out. Future research should explore the broader impact of such training-related individual changes on larger systems, potentially leading to the development of a translational social neuroscience approach that leverages insights from social brain plasticity research to support societal needs, thereby enhancing resilience, mental health, and social cohesion.},
}

@article {pmid40178346,
year = {2025},
author = {LeBeau, K and Lopez, J and Orejuela, M and Eliazar-Macke, N and Freytes, IM},
title = {Understanding the intersectionality of the rural Hispanic/Latino Veteran population: a scoping review of health-related challenges.},
journal = {Ethnicity & health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-28},
doi = {10.1080/13557858.2025.2486413},
pmid = {40178346},
issn = {1465-3419},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The rural Veteran population is becoming more racially and ethnically diverse, with Hispanic/Latino (H/L) Veterans representing a growing proportion of rural Veterans. Despite experiencing similar challenges to those of other rural Veteran populations, rural H/L Veterans face additional health-related challenges due to sociocultural factors. A gap in knowledge for rural H/L Veterans exists; thus, research on this population is warranted.

OBJECTIVE: We conducted a scoping review to examine literature on rural H/L Veterans. We synthesized health-related issues, needs, and services for rural H/L Veterans, including health disparities, tailored interventions to address health disparities, and whether studies employed an intersectional approach to understand and address challenges for rural H/L Veterans.

METHODS: We followed Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Inclusion criteria were limited to English language articles published between 2007-2024 focusing on rural H/L Veterans in the United States and U.S. state equivalents. Two reviewers assessed selected articles.

RESULTS: Sixteen articles were included. Most articles (75%) were retrospective cohort or retrospective cross-sectional studies. Studies examined health disparities related to diabetes, suicide, depression, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, chronic pain, COVID-19 vaccination, primary care access, goals of care documentation, and multimorbidity. 'Hispanic' and/or 'Latino' terms were often used as descriptive characteristics and/or covariates and lacked clear definitions. Few studies thoroughly highlighted the intersectionality of geographic location and H/L ethnicity for Veterans. Additionally, limitations in data were noted by some studies.

CONCLUSIONS: Increased research on health-related challenges experienced by rural H/L Veterans is needed. Of specific importance is research that emphasizes the intersectionality of rural H/L Veterans, acknowledges intra-ethnic diversity and cultural influence, prioritizes culturally relevant interventions, addresses data limitations, and focuses on providing equitable care. Knowledge gained can inform the development of Veteran-centric and culturally appropriate policies and practices to improve the health outcomes of rural H/L Veterans and achieve health equity.},
}

@article {pmid40177645,
year = {2025},
author = {Esmaeili, Z and Kamal Shahsavar, S and Ghazvini, K},
title = {A systematic review of the avian antibody (IgY) therapeutic effects on human bacterial infections over the decade.},
journal = {Antibody therapeutics},
volume = {8},
number = {2},
pages = {111-123},
pmid = {40177645},
issn = {2516-4236},
abstract = {The overuse of antibiotics worldwide, especially during the Coronavirus pandemic, has raised concerns about the rise of antibiotic resistance and its side effects. Immunoglobulin Y, a natural protein that specifically targets foreign antigens, holds promise as a potential therapeutic option, particularly for individuals with sensitive immune systems. Despite numerous studies on IgY, the optimal administration method, effective dose, target antigen, and potential side effects of this antibody remain areas of active research and challenge. This review selected and evaluated articles published in the last ten years from databases such as PubMed and Science Direct with appropriate keywords discussing the therapeutic effects of immunoglobulin Y in human infections in vivo. Out of all the reviewed articles, 35 articles met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that the specific antibody against dental, respiratory, and skin infections has an acceptable effectiveness. In contrast, some infections, such as neurological infections, including tetanus and botulism, still need further investigation due to the short survival time of mice. On the other hand, reporting side effects such as antibody-dependent enhancement in some infections limits its use.},
}

@article {pmid39743984,
year = {2025},
author = {Blake, DP},
title = {Eimeria of chickens: the changing face of an old foe.},
journal = {Avian pathology : journal of the W.V.P.A},
volume = {54},
number = {3},
pages = {267-278},
doi = {10.1080/03079457.2024.2441180},
pmid = {39743984},
issn = {1465-3338},
mesh = {Animals ; *Chickens/parasitology ; *Coccidiosis/veterinary/parasitology/economics/epidemiology ; *Poultry Diseases/parasitology/economics/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Eimeria/genetics/physiology/classification ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {ABSTRACTEimeria are globally enzootic parasites that can cause coccidiosis in chickens. Until recently, remarkably little had changed over the last 40 years in the fundamental biology that underpins detection and control of Eimeria. Tools such as microscopy and lesion scoring remain central to diagnosis, and control still relies on routine supplementation of diets with anticoccidial drugs or application of live vaccines. However, refocusing on aspects of economics, molecular biology, and bacteriology that relate to coccidiosis has prompted considerable change in dogma. The cost of coccidiosis in chickens has been difficult to define, but updating models created in the 1990s suggested an annual cost to the global poultry industry of £10.4 billion in 2016, rising to a peak of £12.9 billion in 2022 under the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic and regional wars. Surveillance using genomic sequence-based diagnostics has suggested the presence of three new Eimeria species, supported by subsequent biological characterization of each line. Use of microbiome sequencing pipelines has revealed the breadth of impact Eimeria infection exerts on enteric microbiota, contributing to dysbiosis and deteriorating litter conditions. Enhanced understanding of Eimeria and the consequences of infection can be used to improve control and diagnosis with relevance to productivity and welfare, creating opportunities to optimize anticoccidial drug use.RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTSThe cost of coccidiosis in chickens fluctuates considerably, peaking in 2022.Three new Eimeria species can infect chickens and escape current vaccines.Eimeria infection exerts wide-ranging effects on enteric microbiota.},
}

Animals
*Chickens/parasitology
*Coccidiosis/veterinary/parasitology/economics/epidemiology
*Poultry Diseases/parasitology/economics/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Eimeria/genetics/physiology/classification
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid39496811,
year = {2025},
author = {Alhumaid, S and Al Noaim, K and Almuslim, AA and Turkistani, JA and Alqurini, ZS and Alshakhs, AM and Al Dossary, N and Alabdulqader, M and Majzoub, RA and Alnaim, AA and Alahmari, AA and Al Ghamdi, MA and Alabdulmohsen, W and Alsharidah, ZA and Alkhamees, MS and AlAithan, LA and Almurayhil, AA and Almurayhil, YA and Aljubran, HA and Alhamdan, ZS and Shabib, MA and Aldandan, AW and Allowaim, AA and Al-Rasasi, AY and Albahrani, AA and Al Salem, BA and Bukhamseen, MS and Al Ayeyd, JS and Al Mutair, A and Alhumaid, H and Al Alawi, Z and Rabaan, AA},
title = {COVID-19 infection in children with blood cancer: A systematic review.},
journal = {Annals of hematology},
volume = {104},
number = {2},
pages = {1203-1230},
pmid = {39496811},
issn = {1432-0584},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy/complications ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Hematologic Neoplasms/epidemiology/complications/therapy ; Child, Preschool ; Incidence ; Adolescent ; Infant ; Male ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Blood cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of death by disease past infancy among children. Children with blood cancer are vulnerable population to viral infections such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the incidence of COVID-19 in children with blood cancer and analyse the demographic parameters, clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes in children with blood cancer with COVID-19 illness.

METHODS: We adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline and searched ProQuest, Medline, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, Wiley online library, Scopus and Nature for studies on the development of COVID-19 in children with blood cancer, published from December 1, 2019 to April 30, 2023, with English language restriction.

RESULTS: Of the 3077 papers that were identified, 155 articles were included in the systematic review (83 case report, 54 cohort and 18 case-series studies). Studies involving 1289 children with blood cancer with confirmed COVID-19 were analysed. Leukaemias (1141 cases) were the most frequent types of blood cancer observed in children who developed COVID-19, followed by non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (59 cases), Hodgkin's lymphomas (36 cases), Langerhans cell histiocytosis (7 cases), myelodysplastic syndrome (7 cases) and myeloid neoplasm (1 case). Among all 1289 blood cancer paediatric cases who transmitted severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), some children were documented to be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) (n = 175, 13.6%), intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation (MV) (n = 111, 8.6%), suffered acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (n = 144, 11.2%) or died (n = 111, 8.6%). Overall, COVID-19 in children with different types of blood cancer resulted in no or low severity of disease in 78.6% of all included cases (COVID-19 severity: asymptomatic = 238, mild = 601, or moderate = 171). Treatment for COVID-19 was not necessary in a small number of children with blood cancer (n = 94, 7.3%). Fatality in children with blood cancer with COVID-19 was reported in any of the included blood cancer categories for leukaemias (n = 99/1141, 8.7%), non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (n = 7/59, 11.9%), Hodgkin's lymphomas (n = 2/36, 5.5%), myelodysplastic syndrome (n = 1/7, 14.3%) or myeloid neoplasm (n = 1/1, 100%). Fatality rate in children with blood cancer infected with SARS-CoV-2 was the highest in patients with Hispanic ethnicity (n = 44/111, 39.6%) and COVID-19-related fatality was highest in male patients (76.5% of deceased patients). Most studies reported to alter the intensity and regimen of anticancer treatment in children with blood cancer during course of SARS-CoV-2 infection, however, many studies have reported to successfully treat COVID-19 without any changes to the anticancer treatment.

CONCLUSION: Globally, leukaemias were the most prevalent and myeloid neoplasms were the least prevalent blood cancer types in children who developed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Children with blood cancer infected with SARS-CoV-2 may experience higher rates of ICU admission and mortality in comparison with the healthy pediatric populations. Mortality in children with blood cancer and infected with SARS-CoV-2 was highest in cases belonging to male gender and Hispanic ethnicity. However, children with blood cancer tend to have milder COVID-19 symptoms and are less likely to be hospitalized and have better prognosis when compared to adults. Continuation of anticancer treatment in individual paediatric blood cancer patients with COVID-19 seems to be possible.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy/complications
Child
SARS-CoV-2
*Hematologic Neoplasms/epidemiology/complications/therapy
Child, Preschool
Incidence
Adolescent
Infant
Male

@article {pmid39289937,
year = {2025},
author = {Veldurthy, S and Shrivastava, D and Majeed, F and Ayaz, T and Munir, A and Haider, A and Mylavarapu, M},
title = {Incidence of Infective Endocarditis Post-TPVR with MELODY Valve in Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Current cardiology reviews},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {e1573403X324878},
doi = {10.2174/011573403X324878240903045701},
pmid = {39289937},
issn = {1875-6557},
mesh = {Humans ; Incidence ; *Endocarditis/epidemiology/etiology ; *Heart Valve Prosthesis/adverse effects ; Child ; *Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation/adverse effects/methods ; *Pulmonary Valve/surgery ; *Postoperative Complications/epidemiology ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/epidemiology ; *Cardiac Catheterization/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Infective Endocarditis (IE) has emerged to be one of the most impactful adverse complications post-transcatheter procedures, especially Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement (TPVR). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis with the aim of identifying the incidence of IE post-TPVR with the MELODY valve in the pediatric population.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was performed across several prominent databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Science Direct. Studies compared the clinical outcomes of pediatric patients who received TPVR using the MELODY valve. Data extraction was done for variables like the total pediatric patient population that underwent TPVR with MELODY valve, mean age, the sex of the patients, the incidence rate of IE following the procedure, and the duration between the procedure and the occurrence of IE. Inverse Variance was used to estimate the incidence of IE in patients who underwent TPVR with respective 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS: In total, 4 studies with 414 pediatric patients who underwent TPVR using the MELODY valve were included in the study. The mean age of the study population was 12.7 ± 3.11 years. The pooled incidence of IE following TPVR with MELODY valve in the pediatric population was 17.70% (95% Cl 3.84-31.55; p<0.00001). Additionally, the mean length of duration to develop IE following TPVR with MELODY valve in the pediatric population was 2.18 years (95% Cl 0.35-4.01; p<0.00001).

CONCLUSION: Our meta-analysis reveals that IE post-TPVR with MELODY valve in pediatric patients is a significant complication, clinically and statistically. Further research needs to be done to understand the risk factors and develop better management strategies.},
}

Humans
Incidence
*Endocarditis/epidemiology/etiology
*Heart Valve Prosthesis/adverse effects
Child
*Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation/adverse effects/methods
*Pulmonary Valve/surgery
*Postoperative Complications/epidemiology
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/epidemiology
*Cardiac Catheterization/adverse effects

@article {pmid38798209,
year = {2025},
author = {Di Domenico, M and Motta, A and Dai Pra, T and Cantore, S and Dioguardi, M and Zanella, ER and Arrigoni, R and De Vito, D and Mastrangelo, F},
title = {The "Magnificent Seven" in Oral and Systemic Health against COVID-19.},
journal = {Endocrine, metabolic & immune disorders drug targets},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {271-280},
pmid = {38798209},
issn = {2212-3873},
support = {2014-2020-OS 1.3-ACTION 1.3.1//Campania Region-PORFESR CAMPANIA/ ; CUP B63C22001210007, SURF 21058BP000000020//UNICAMPANIA/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/diet therapy/epidemiology ; *Nutritional Status ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Oral Health ; Nutrition Assessment ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic impacted all areas of daily life, including medical care. Unfortunately, to date, no specific treatments have been found for the cure of this disease, and therefore, it is advisable to implement all possible strategies to prevent infection. In this context, it is important to better define the role of all behaviors, in particular nutrition, in order to establish whether these can both prevent infection and improve the outcome of the disease in patients with COVID-19. There is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that immune response can be weakened by inadequate nutrition. Nutrition management and treatment are very important to enhance the immune response of an infected person against RNA viral infection. A complete nutritional assessment should include anthropometric, dietary, and laboratorial assessment, as well as a multidisciplinary discussion about the patient's clinical condition. In this way, it is possible to establish an individualized nutritional approach to contribute to improving clinical and nutritional prognoses. From this point of view, diet, through intake of vitamins and trace elements and maintaining adequate functioning of the intestinal barrier, can reduce the severity of the COVID-19 infection. In this study, we provide an overview of the effects of diet on COVID-19 infection in non-cancer patients. This notion needs to be further evaluated, and thus, identification, characterization, and targeting of the right nutrition principles related to the management of patients with COVID-19 are likely to improve outcomes and may prevent the infection or lead to a cure.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/diet therapy/epidemiology
*Nutritional Status
SARS-CoV-2
*Oral Health
Nutrition Assessment

@article {pmid38717054,
year = {2025},
author = {Racine, N and Deneault, AA and Eccles, H and Hopley, A and Le, M and Labelle, PR and Prada, K and Colman, I},
title = {Prevalence of Mental Health and Substance Use Difficulties Among Sexual and Gender Diverse Youth During COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {LGBT health},
volume = {12},
number = {3},
pages = {165-175},
doi = {10.1089/lgbt.2023.0263},
pmid = {38717054},
issn = {2325-8306},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Adolescent ; *Sexual and Gender Minorities/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Male ; Female ; Suicidal Ideation ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; *Mental Health ; Suicide, Attempted/statistics & numerical data ; Anxiety/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Purpose: Sexual and gender diverse (SGD) youth have been particularly vulnerable to mental health difficulties and substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, estimates have varied across studies pointing to the potential for moderator variables. This meta-analytic and narrative synthesis provides estimates of the prevalence of mental health difficulties (anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts) and substance use during COVID-19 among SGD youth. Methods: A comprehensive search strategy combining keywords and subject headings was designed and used across eight databases from inception to October 7, 2022. The search yielded 826 nonduplicate records of which 191 full-text articles were retrieved, evaluated, and extracted by two study authors. Data were analyzed from February 27 to March 1, 2023. Results: Using random-effects meta-analyses, 19 studies from 18 independent samples with 10,500 participants were included. Pooled prevalence rates for clinically elevated anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation were 55.4% [95% confidence interval (CI):45.9%-64.5%], 61.8% (95% CI: 50.9%-71.7%), and 50.9% (95% CI: 42.8%-59.0%). There was no evidence of publication bias. Suicide attempts and substance use were summarized narratively with rates of suicide attempts being greater than 20% across included studies and variable reporting of substance use across substance types. No moderators explained variability across studies. Conclusion: More than 50% of SGD youth experienced clinically elevated symptoms of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to prepandemic estimates for both SGD and non-SGD youth. Targeted resource allocation is needed to specifically address the needs of SGD youth.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology
Prevalence
Adolescent
*Sexual and Gender Minorities/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Male
Female
Suicidal Ideation
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
*Mental Health
Suicide, Attempted/statistics & numerical data
Anxiety/epidemiology

@article {pmid37909739,
year = {2025},
author = {Roth, HR and Reinert, JP},
title = {Methylxanthine Derivatives in the Treatment of Sinus Node Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cardiology in review},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {246-255},
doi = {10.1097/CRD.0000000000000609},
pmid = {37909739},
issn = {1538-4683},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sick Sinus Syndrome/drug therapy/physiopathology/complications ; *Xanthines/therapeutic use ; *Bradycardia/drug therapy/etiology ; *Theophylline/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {While the chronotropic effects of theophylline and aminophylline are well-known, their clinical application in the treatment of sinus node dysfunction has not been established in a review. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of methylxanthines in the treatment of bradyarrhythmias associated with sinus node dysfunction. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines on Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, SciELO, Korean Citation Index, Global Index Medicus, and CINAHL through June 2023. A total of 607 studies were identified through the literature search. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 studies were included in this review. The causes of bradyarrhythmias involving the sinoatrial node included acute cervical spinal cord injury, coronavirus disease of 2019, carotid sinus syncope, chronotropic incompetence, heart transplant, and chronic sinus node dysfunction. Theophylline and aminophylline were shown to be effective for increasing heart rate and reducing the reoccurrence of bradyarrhythmias. The data on symptom resolution was conflicting. While many case studies reported a resolution of symptoms, a randomized controlled trial reported no significant difference in symptom scores between the control, theophylline, and pacemaker groups in the treatment of sick sinus syndrome. The incidence of adverse effects was low across all study designs. The data suggests methylxanthines may be useful as an alternative or bridge to nonpharmacologic pacing; however, dosing has yet to be established for various indications. Overall, methylxanthines proved safe and effective as a pharmacologic therapy for bradyarrhythmic manifestations of sinus node dysfunction.},
}

Humans
*Sick Sinus Syndrome/drug therapy/physiopathology/complications
*Xanthines/therapeutic use
*Bradycardia/drug therapy/etiology
*Theophylline/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40177595,
year = {2025},
author = {French, NP and Maxwell, H and Baker, MG and Callaghan, F and Dyet, K and Geoghegan, JL and Hayman, DTS and Huang, QS and Kvalsvig, A and Russell, E and Scott, P and Thompson, TP and Plank, MJ},
title = {Preparing for the next pandemic: insights from Aotearoa New Zealand's Covid-19 response.},
journal = {The Lancet regional health. Western Pacific},
volume = {56},
number = {},
pages = {101525},
doi = {10.1016/j.lanwpc.2025.101525},
pmid = {40177595},
issn = {2666-6065},
abstract = {In 2020 Aotearoa New Zealand, like many other countries, faced the coronavirus pandemic armed with an influenza-based pandemic plan. The country adapted rapidly to mount a highly strategic and effective elimination response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, implementation was hampered by gaps in pandemic preparedness. These gaps undermined effectiveness of the response and exacerbated inequitable impacts of both Covid-19 disease and control measures. Our review examines the Covid-19 response, reflecting on strengths, limitations and implications for pandemic planning. We identify three key areas for improvement: 1) development of a systematised procedure for risk assessment of a new pandemic pathogen; 2) investment in essential capabilities during inter-pandemic periods; and 3) building equity into all stages of the response. We present a typology of potential pathogens and scenarios and describe the evidence assessment process and core capabilities required for countries to respond fluidly, equitably, and effectively to a rapidly emerging pandemic threat.},
}

@article {pmid40177285,
year = {2025},
author = {Frias, CE and Samarasinghe, N and Cuzco, C and Koorankot, J and de Juan, A and Ali Rudwan, HM and Rahim, HFA and Zabalegui, A and Tulley, I and Al-Harahsheh, ST and Al-Homaiddi, MSST and Fendt-Newlin, M and Campbell, J},
title = {Strategies to support the mental health and well-being of health and care workforce: a rapid review of reviews.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1530287},
doi = {10.3389/fmed.2025.1530287},
pmid = {40177285},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Countries globally face challenges in educating, employing and retaining their health and care workforce, largely due to underinvestment in health systems. Health and care workforce report significantly greater levels of job-related burnout and mental health problems, which in turn are associated with poorer patient outcomes, increased medical errors, diminished quality and safety, decreased patient satisfaction, and reduced healthcare efficiency.

OBJECTIVE: We conducted a rapid review of systematic reviews to evaluate the mental health and well-being of health and care workers since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify interventions available at organizational and individual levels.

METHODS: PubMed and Epistemonikos were searched for systematic reviews published between May 2022 and February 2024. The inclusion criteria were systematic reviews written in English with quantitative design, with or without meta-analysis.

RESULTS: Fifty articles met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. Overall, there has not been a significant change in the prevalence of depression and anxiety among health and care workforce since 2022, suggesting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workers' mental health and well-being was not specific to their experience working during the pandemic. Sixteen studies reported two types of mental health and well-being interventions: individual-level interventions and organizational-level interventions with specific impact on mental health and work environment variables. No specific policy interventions were found. However, some studies suggested policy interventions to improve the mental health and well-being of the health and care workforce.

DISCUSSION: Our analysis highlighted the need for systemic changes to protect the mental health and well-being of the health and care workforce in the post-COVID-19 era. Despite the wealth of evidence on mental health problems and on effective interventions, there remains a notable gap in systemic implementation and organizational accountability. The call to action for a paradigm shift must be embraced and we must strive to build resilient healthcare systems and invest in active support and sustain them, incorporating structural, non-structural and functional aspects of organizational resilience.},
}

@article {pmid40177094,
year = {2025},
author = {Richter, H and Schneider, M and Eisenberger, J and Jafari, N and Haumann, H and Häske, D},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on prehospital emergency medical service: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1543150},
doi = {10.3389/fpubh.2025.1543150},
pmid = {40177094},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Emergency Medical Services/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on healthcare systems worldwide. Emergency medical services (EMS) frequently served as the sole point of contact for individuals in need of assistance or emergency support. This study aimed to map the impact of the pandemic on emergency calls and EMS operations.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in the electronic databases Pubmed and Web of Science. A hand search supplemented the search. Published articles in English or German dealing with frequencies, diagnoses, and factors influencing emergency calls and EMS use were included. Studies on cardio-pulmonary resuscitation were not included.

RESULTS: The initial search yielded 3,359 articles, of which 3,187 were screened by title/abstracts, and 120 full-text articles were analyzed. Fifty articles were then included. Fourteen articles reported the number of emergency calls, 30 on the number of EMS operations, and six on both outcomes. The articles were mostly published in 2020 (n = 18) or 2021 (n = 29) and dealt with the situation of EMS during the COVID-19 pandemic in 13 European countries and 11 non-European countries. However, the quantitative data on changes in emergency calls show considerable variation (standard deviation of 31.3% with a mean of 0.0%, minimum: -50.0% to maximum: 121.0%). The quantitative data on changes in EMS operations show a more significant overall decrease (mean: -12.2%, standard deviation: 24.7%, minimum: -72% to maximum: 56%).

CONCLUSIONS: The heterogeneity of the studies is considerable; overall, there appears to have been a decline in emergency calls, particularly EMS operations. Clear patterns, e.g., by region, cannot be identified.

REVIEW PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: The review protocol is registered in the Open Science Framework: https://osf.io/8urq9.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Emergency Medical Services/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40177083,
year = {2025},
author = {Belkić, K},
title = {Toward better prevention of physician burnout: insights from individual participant data using the MD-specific Occupational Stressor Index and organizational interventions.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1514706},
doi = {10.3389/fpubh.2025.1514706},
pmid = {40177083},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Burnout, Professional/prevention & control/psychology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Physicians/psychology ; Female ; Male ; *Occupational Stress/prevention & control ; Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Physician burnout has become a public-health crisis. The need is dire for robust organizational solutions, focusing on reduction of specific stressors. The physician-specific Occupational Stressor Index (OSI) based on cognitive ergonomics can help. Individual-participant data (IPD) from different studies addressing physician burnout are lacking.

AIMS: To perform IPD analysis regarding job stressors and their relation to physician burnout and to utilize the IPD results to inform a systematic review of the stressors that show an association with physician burnout, focusing on intervention studies.

METHODS: PRISMA guidelines are followed for the IPD analysis and systematic review of intervention studies on the implicated stressors, taking the COVID-19 pandemic into consideration. The IPD analysis is performed on studies using the physician-specific OSI vis-à-vis burnout assessed by the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Odds ratios (OR) ± 95% confidence-intervals (CI) are reported, adjusting for age, gender and caring for patients with suspected COVID-19 infection.

RESULTS: Three studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, providing complete IPD data for 95 physicians. Thirty-two (33.7%) physicians had total OSI scores >88, for which intervention is urgently needed. Unit-change in the total stressor burden assessed via OSI yielded OR = 1.11 (95%CI: 1.03-1.18) (p = 0.003) for personal burnout, OR = 1.17 (95%CI: 1.08-1.26) (p = 0.0001) for work-related burnout and OR = 1.07 (95%CI: 1.01-1.15) (p = 0.03) for patient-related burnout. Caring for patients with suspected COVID-19 infection showed significant multivariable results (p = 0.04) only for personal burnout. Twenty distinct work stressors revealed multivariable associations with CBI. Systematic examination via PUBMED, CINAHL and OVID Medline yielded 33 publications mitigating those stressors among physicians. Adequate staffing was pivotal. Clerical staff off-loaded administrative burden. Information-technology staff helped diminish interruptions, enhancing workflow. Cross-coverage reduced time constraints, ensured separate periods for non-clinical tasks, and ≥1 work-free day/week. Several interventions impacted physician burnout, as did recognition of physicians' efforts/achievements. Other OSI-identified stressors were insufficiently examined in intervention studies: e.g. vacation; appropriately-timed, cross-covered restbreaks; and counter-measures for emotionally-disturbing aspects of MD's work, particularly during the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: Further participatory-action research is needed in well-controlled intervention trials to alleviate physician burnout.},
}

Humans
*Burnout, Professional/prevention & control/psychology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Physicians/psychology
Female
Male
*Occupational Stress/prevention & control
Adult
SARS-CoV-2
Middle Aged