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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 04 May 2025 at 01:41 Created:
covid-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2), a virus closely related to the SARS virus. The disease was discovered and named during the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak. Those affected may develop a fever, dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A sore throat, runny nose or sneezing is less common. While the majority of cases result in mild symptoms, some can progress to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. The infection is spread from one person to others via respiratory droplets produced from the airways, often during coughing or sneezing. Time from exposure to onset of symptoms is generally between 2 and 14 days, with an average of 5 days. The standard method of diagnosis is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) from a nasopharyngeal swab or sputum sample, with results within a few hours to 2 days. Antibody assays can also be used, using a blood serum sample, with results within a few days. The infection can also be diagnosed from a combination of symptoms, risk factors and a chest CT scan showing features of pneumonia. Correct handwashing technique, maintaining distance from people who are coughing and not touching one's face with unwashed hands are measures recommended to prevent the disease. It is also recommended to cover one's nose and mouth with a tissue or a bent elbow when coughing. Those who suspect they carry the virus are recommended to wear a surgical face mask and seek medical advice by calling a doctor rather than visiting a clinic in person. Masks are also recommended for those who are taking care of someone with a suspected infection but not for the general public. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, with management involving treatment of symptoms, supportive care and experimental measures. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 3%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As of 29 February 2020, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the United States are areas having evidence of community transmission of the disease.
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Created with PubMed® Query: ( SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR (wuhan AND coronavirus) AND review[SB] ) NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion
Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children and Kawasaki disease.
Frontiers in immunology, 16:1554787.
This narrative review aims to analyze and compare the current literature on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and Kawasaki disease (KD), with a focus on case definitions, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, treatment strategies, and outcomes. Through a comprehensive review of relevant studies, including screening titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, key similarities and differences were identified. Both MIS-C and KD involve immune system dysregulation and share clinical manifestations such as rash, gastrointestinal symptoms, and cardiovascular involvement, with treatments often centered around immunomodulatory therapies. However, significant differences were observed, particularly in terms of age distribution, demographic prevalence, clinical presentation, and diagnostic criteria, with KD primarily affecting younger children and being associated more prominently with coronary artery abnormalities. While both diseases raise concerns about severe cardiac involvement and the need for intensive care, their pathogenic mechanisms have not been fully understood. Ongoing research is critical to elucidating these mechanisms, refining diagnostic criteria, and optimizing therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes for affected children. This comparative analysis is essential for advancing the understanding of both conditions, as accurately distinguishing between MIS-C and KD has significant implications for clinical decision-making and patient management. Given their overlapping yet distinct clinical features, precise differentiation is critical for ensuring timely diagnosis, optimizing therapeutic strategies, and improving patient outcomes. The concern among pediatric patients stems from the potential for severe complications, particularly cardiac involvement, which underscores the need for heightened awareness, early recognition, and evidence-based treatment strategies to minimize long-term morbidity and mortality.
Additional Links: PMID-40303414
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40303414,
year = {2025},
author = {Lupu, A and Gavrilovici, C and Mihai, CM and Tonco, DC and Nedelcu, AH and Pertea, L and Chisnoiu, T and Baciu, G and Stoicescu, RM and Salaru, DL and Badescu, MC and Cuciureanu, M and Cirstea, O and Lupu, VV},
title = {Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children and Kawasaki disease.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1554787},
pmid = {40303414},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology/immunology ; *Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology/immunology ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/therapy/complications ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Infant ; },
abstract = {This narrative review aims to analyze and compare the current literature on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and Kawasaki disease (KD), with a focus on case definitions, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, treatment strategies, and outcomes. Through a comprehensive review of relevant studies, including screening titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, key similarities and differences were identified. Both MIS-C and KD involve immune system dysregulation and share clinical manifestations such as rash, gastrointestinal symptoms, and cardiovascular involvement, with treatments often centered around immunomodulatory therapies. However, significant differences were observed, particularly in terms of age distribution, demographic prevalence, clinical presentation, and diagnostic criteria, with KD primarily affecting younger children and being associated more prominently with coronary artery abnormalities. While both diseases raise concerns about severe cardiac involvement and the need for intensive care, their pathogenic mechanisms have not been fully understood. Ongoing research is critical to elucidating these mechanisms, refining diagnostic criteria, and optimizing therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes for affected children. This comparative analysis is essential for advancing the understanding of both conditions, as accurately distinguishing between MIS-C and KD has significant implications for clinical decision-making and patient management. Given their overlapping yet distinct clinical features, precise differentiation is critical for ensuring timely diagnosis, optimizing therapeutic strategies, and improving patient outcomes. The concern among pediatric patients stems from the potential for severe complications, particularly cardiac involvement, which underscores the need for heightened awareness, early recognition, and evidence-based treatment strategies to minimize long-term morbidity and mortality.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology/immunology
*Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology/immunology
Child
Child, Preschool
*COVID-19/diagnosis/therapy/complications
Diagnosis, Differential
Infant
RevDate: 2025-05-03
CmpDate: 2025-05-03
Challenges in interpreting Mendelian randomization studies with a disease as the exposure: Using COVID-19 liability studies as an exemplar.
European journal of human genetics : EJHG, 33(5):658-665.
Mendelian randomization (MR) studies using diseases as exposures are increasingly prevalent although any observed associations do not necessarily imply effect of diseases. To illustrate this challenge, we conducted a systematic review of MR studies focusing on COVID-19 consequence. We hypothesized if outcome genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted before COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019, any observed associations in these studies were unlikely to be driven by COVID-19. We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE for all MR studies published between 1 January 2019 and 20 May 2023. Inclusion criteria included MR studies which used COVID-19 as the exposure and designed to assess COVID-19's impact on health outcomes. We extracted relevant information, such as result interpretation and relevance assumption assessment. This review was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023421079). Amongst 57 included studies, 45 studies used outcome GWAS published prior to 2019 whilst the remaining studies likely used outcome GWAS containing data collected before 2019. Relevance assumption was assessed mainly by p values. A total of 35 studies showed an association of COVID-19 liability with health outcomes. Regardless of the results, 45 studies attributed these as evidence (or lack of evidence) of COVID-19 consequence. In MR studies using disease liability as exposure, relevance assumption should consider the prevalence of the disease in the outcome GWAS in the context of 2 sample Mendelian randomization study rather than p values/F-statistic alone. Even when these are verified, these studies likely suffered from pleiotropy, making corresponding interpretation as effect of disease challenging.
Additional Links: PMID-40164729
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40164729,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, S and Liang, Y and Mo, JMY and Li, QHY and He, B and Luo, S and Burgess, S and Au Yeung, SL},
title = {Challenges in interpreting Mendelian randomization studies with a disease as the exposure: Using COVID-19 liability studies as an exemplar.},
journal = {European journal of human genetics : EJHG},
volume = {33},
number = {5},
pages = {658-665},
pmid = {40164729},
issn = {1476-5438},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/genetics/epidemiology ; *Mendelian Randomization Analysis/methods/standards ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; },
abstract = {Mendelian randomization (MR) studies using diseases as exposures are increasingly prevalent although any observed associations do not necessarily imply effect of diseases. To illustrate this challenge, we conducted a systematic review of MR studies focusing on COVID-19 consequence. We hypothesized if outcome genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted before COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019, any observed associations in these studies were unlikely to be driven by COVID-19. We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE for all MR studies published between 1 January 2019 and 20 May 2023. Inclusion criteria included MR studies which used COVID-19 as the exposure and designed to assess COVID-19's impact on health outcomes. We extracted relevant information, such as result interpretation and relevance assumption assessment. This review was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023421079). Amongst 57 included studies, 45 studies used outcome GWAS published prior to 2019 whilst the remaining studies likely used outcome GWAS containing data collected before 2019. Relevance assumption was assessed mainly by p values. A total of 35 studies showed an association of COVID-19 liability with health outcomes. Regardless of the results, 45 studies attributed these as evidence (or lack of evidence) of COVID-19 consequence. In MR studies using disease liability as exposure, relevance assumption should consider the prevalence of the disease in the outcome GWAS in the context of 2 sample Mendelian randomization study rather than p values/F-statistic alone. Even when these are verified, these studies likely suffered from pleiotropy, making corresponding interpretation as effect of disease challenging.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/genetics/epidemiology
*Mendelian Randomization Analysis/methods/standards
Genome-Wide Association Study
SARS-CoV-2
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
RevDate: 2025-05-03
CmpDate: 2025-05-03
Adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines before and during COVID-19 in children: A review.
International journal of sports medicine, 46(5):305-315.
This study aims to describe and compare adherence to the 24-Hour Movement Guidelines (recommendations for physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration) among children before and during COVID-19 pandemic . The literature search was conducted on Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus for quantitative studies on 24-hour movement behaviors, published in English. The studies were categorized by collection date into before the pandemic (June 16th, 2016 - March 10, 2020) and during the pandemic (March 11th, 2020 - May 5, 2023), with all studies included. A random-effects model was employed to synthesize the adherence rates, and subgroup analyses were conducted based on age, sex, region, and Human development index (HDI) groups. Before the pandemic, 12.1% (95% CI:10.3%-13.9%) of overall children met the three recommendations. During the pandemic, 8.6% (95% CI: 6.4%-11.4%) of overall children met the three recommendations. The adherence to the three recommendations during the pandemic was 3.5% lower (p<0.05) than before the pandemic, with significant regional differences (p<0.05). Most children fail to meet the guidelines in any period. The adherence to the three 24-Hour Movement Guidelines during the pandemic was lower than before, with varying degrees of low adherence across different groups.
Additional Links: PMID-39923763
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39923763,
year = {2025},
author = {Yan, Y and Jia, J and Liu, B and Ke, Y and Liu, Y},
title = {Adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines before and during COVID-19 in children: A review.},
journal = {International journal of sports medicine},
volume = {46},
number = {5},
pages = {305-315},
doi = {10.1055/a-2464-3228},
pmid = {39923763},
issn = {1439-3964},
support = {23&ZD197//Research on the High-Quality Development of Youth Sports in China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child ; *Exercise ; Sleep ; Screen Time ; *Guideline Adherence/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {This study aims to describe and compare adherence to the 24-Hour Movement Guidelines (recommendations for physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration) among children before and during COVID-19 pandemic . The literature search was conducted on Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus for quantitative studies on 24-hour movement behaviors, published in English. The studies were categorized by collection date into before the pandemic (June 16th, 2016 - March 10, 2020) and during the pandemic (March 11th, 2020 - May 5, 2023), with all studies included. A random-effects model was employed to synthesize the adherence rates, and subgroup analyses were conducted based on age, sex, region, and Human development index (HDI) groups. Before the pandemic, 12.1% (95% CI:10.3%-13.9%) of overall children met the three recommendations. During the pandemic, 8.6% (95% CI: 6.4%-11.4%) of overall children met the three recommendations. The adherence to the three recommendations during the pandemic was 3.5% lower (p<0.05) than before the pandemic, with significant regional differences (p<0.05). Most children fail to meet the guidelines in any period. The adherence to the three 24-Hour Movement Guidelines during the pandemic was lower than before, with varying degrees of low adherence across different groups.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Child
*Exercise
Sleep
Screen Time
*Guideline Adherence/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Global Emergence of Infectious Bronchitis Virus Variants: Evolution, Immunity, and Vaccination Challenges.
Transboundary and emerging diseases, 2023:1144924.
Infectious bronchitis is an acute, extremely contagious viral disease affecting chickens of all ages, leading to devastating economic losses in the poultry industry worldwide. Affected chickens show respiratory distress and/or nephritis, in addition to decrease of egg production and quality in layers. The avian coronavirus, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), is a rapidly evolving virus due to the high frequency of mutations and recombination events that are common in coronaviruses. This leads to the continual emergence of novel genotypes that show variable or poor crossprotection. The immune response against IBV is complex. Passive, innate and adaptive humoral and cellular immunity play distinct roles in protection against IBV. Despite intensive vaccination using the currently available live-attenuated and inactivated IBV vaccines, IBV continues to circulate, evolve, and trigger outbreaks worldwide, indicating the urgent need to update the current vaccines to control the emerging variants. Different approaches for preparation of IBV vaccines, including DNA, subunit, peptides, virus-like particles, vectored and recombinant vaccines, have been tested in many studies to combat the disease. This review focuses on several key aspects related to IBV, including its clinical significance, the functional structure of the virus, the factors that contribute to its evolution and diversity, the types of immune responses against IBV, and the characteristics of both current and emerging IBV vaccines. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of IBV and explore the emergence of variants, their dissemination around the world, and the challenges to define the efficient vaccination strategies.
Additional Links: PMID-40303661
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40303661,
year = {2023},
author = {Abozeid, HH},
title = {Global Emergence of Infectious Bronchitis Virus Variants: Evolution, Immunity, and Vaccination Challenges.},
journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases},
volume = {2023},
number = {},
pages = {1144924},
pmid = {40303661},
issn = {1865-1682},
mesh = {*Infectious bronchitis virus/genetics/immunology ; Animals ; *Poultry Diseases/virology/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; *Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology/immunology ; *Vaccination/veterinary ; Chickens ; Genetic Variation ; },
abstract = {Infectious bronchitis is an acute, extremely contagious viral disease affecting chickens of all ages, leading to devastating economic losses in the poultry industry worldwide. Affected chickens show respiratory distress and/or nephritis, in addition to decrease of egg production and quality in layers. The avian coronavirus, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), is a rapidly evolving virus due to the high frequency of mutations and recombination events that are common in coronaviruses. This leads to the continual emergence of novel genotypes that show variable or poor crossprotection. The immune response against IBV is complex. Passive, innate and adaptive humoral and cellular immunity play distinct roles in protection against IBV. Despite intensive vaccination using the currently available live-attenuated and inactivated IBV vaccines, IBV continues to circulate, evolve, and trigger outbreaks worldwide, indicating the urgent need to update the current vaccines to control the emerging variants. Different approaches for preparation of IBV vaccines, including DNA, subunit, peptides, virus-like particles, vectored and recombinant vaccines, have been tested in many studies to combat the disease. This review focuses on several key aspects related to IBV, including its clinical significance, the functional structure of the virus, the factors that contribute to its evolution and diversity, the types of immune responses against IBV, and the characteristics of both current and emerging IBV vaccines. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of IBV and explore the emergence of variants, their dissemination around the world, and the challenges to define the efficient vaccination strategies.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Infectious bronchitis virus/genetics/immunology
Animals
*Poultry Diseases/virology/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
*Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology/immunology
*Vaccination/veterinary
Chickens
Genetic Variation
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
[Advances in pulmonary pathology in China over the past ten years: retrospect and prospect].
Zhonghua bing li xue za zhi = Chinese journal of pathology, 54(5):425-434.
Over the past decade, China has made remarkable achievements in the updating of molecular characteristics and diagnostic criteria of lung cancer, pathological characteristics of COVID-19, classification scheme of interstitial lung disease, application of artificial intelligence in pulmonary pathological diagnosis, and clinical application of new biomarkers such as liquid biopsy. The Chinese Journal of Pathology has witnessed a revolution in this field. On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the journal, this article reviews the development of pulmonary pathology over the past decade and looks forward to the future trend.
Additional Links: PMID-40302570
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40302570,
year = {2025},
author = {Feng, SS and Zhang, S},
title = {[Advances in pulmonary pathology in China over the past ten years: retrospect and prospect].},
journal = {Zhonghua bing li xue za zhi = Chinese journal of pathology},
volume = {54},
number = {5},
pages = {425-434},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn112151-20241024-00697},
pmid = {40302570},
issn = {0529-5807},
mesh = {Humans ; China ; *COVID-19/pathology/diagnosis ; *Lung Neoplasms/pathology/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Lung/pathology ; Lung Diseases, Interstitial/pathology/diagnosis ; Artificial Intelligence ; Liquid Biopsy ; },
abstract = {Over the past decade, China has made remarkable achievements in the updating of molecular characteristics and diagnostic criteria of lung cancer, pathological characteristics of COVID-19, classification scheme of interstitial lung disease, application of artificial intelligence in pulmonary pathological diagnosis, and clinical application of new biomarkers such as liquid biopsy. The Chinese Journal of Pathology has witnessed a revolution in this field. On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the journal, this article reviews the development of pulmonary pathology over the past decade and looks forward to the future trend.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
China
*COVID-19/pathology/diagnosis
*Lung Neoplasms/pathology/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
*Lung/pathology
Lung Diseases, Interstitial/pathology/diagnosis
Artificial Intelligence
Liquid Biopsy
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Acute Macular Neuroretinopathy Mediated by COVID-19 Infection: Insights into its Clinical Features and Pathogenesis.
Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition), 30(4):26412.
Acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) is a rare retinal condition that predominantly affects young females. The incidence of AMN increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, thereby providing a unique opportunity to elucidate the etiology of this disease. In the present study, 24 articles reporting 59 patients were reviewed. The average age of the patients was 33.51 ± 14.02 years, ranging from 16 to 75 years, with females comprising 71.19% of the cases. The average duration of ocular symptoms post-infection was 8.22 ± 10.69 days, ranging from 4 to 150 days. This study investigated the potential pathogenesis of AMN, including the impact of COVID-19 on retinal neurovascular structure and function, immune-mediated inflammatory factor production, blood-retinal barrier disruption, and retinal microvascular damage, as well as potential clinical therapeutic interventions. This research provides a theoretical framework that can inform further investigations of AMN.
Additional Links: PMID-40302322
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40302322,
year = {2025},
author = {Xi, Y and Zhou, Z and Chang, T and Dou, G and Chu, Z},
title = {Acute Macular Neuroretinopathy Mediated by COVID-19 Infection: Insights into its Clinical Features and Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition)},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {26412},
doi = {10.31083/FBL26412},
pmid = {40302322},
issn = {2768-6698},
support = {82371071//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 81970814//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82000905//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021JSTS28//Clinical AFFMU foundation support/ ; 22YXYJ0053//Science and Technology Project of Xi'an/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Retinal Diseases/etiology/pathology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Adult ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; Acute Disease ; Blood-Retinal Barrier/pathology ; Macula Lutea/pathology ; },
abstract = {Acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) is a rare retinal condition that predominantly affects young females. The incidence of AMN increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, thereby providing a unique opportunity to elucidate the etiology of this disease. In the present study, 24 articles reporting 59 patients were reviewed. The average age of the patients was 33.51 ± 14.02 years, ranging from 16 to 75 years, with females comprising 71.19% of the cases. The average duration of ocular symptoms post-infection was 8.22 ± 10.69 days, ranging from 4 to 150 days. This study investigated the potential pathogenesis of AMN, including the impact of COVID-19 on retinal neurovascular structure and function, immune-mediated inflammatory factor production, blood-retinal barrier disruption, and retinal microvascular damage, as well as potential clinical therapeutic interventions. This research provides a theoretical framework that can inform further investigations of AMN.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Retinal Diseases/etiology/pathology/virology
SARS-CoV-2
Adult
Female
Male
Middle Aged
Aged
Adolescent
Young Adult
Acute Disease
Blood-Retinal Barrier/pathology
Macula Lutea/pathology
RevDate: 2025-05-02
Effect of the vitamin D supplementation on clinical outcomes and inflammatory status in COVID-19 patients: an umbrella review.
BMC nutrition, 11(1):86.
INTRODUCTION: The role of vitamin D supplementation in modulating clinical outcomes and inflammatory responses in COVID- 19 patients has garnered significant interest. This umbrella review consolidates current evidence to evaluate the association between vitamin D supplementation and COVID- 19-related outcomes.
METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases to identify relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Studies assessing the impact of vitamin D supplementation on disease severity, mortality, hospitalization, and inflammatory markers in COVID- 19 patients were included. Methodological quality was assessed using standardized tools.
RESULTS: The findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation may be associated with reduced mortality and improved clinical outcomes in COVID- 19 patients. Several studies reported a decrease in inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein and interleukin- 6, following supplementation. However, variations in study design, dosage regimens, and baseline vitamin D status limit the generalizability of results.
CONCLUSION: Vitamin D supplementation appears to have a potential role in improving clinical outcomes and modulating inflammatory responses in COVID- 19 patients. Nevertheless, due to heterogeneity among studies, further high-quality randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings.
Additional Links: PMID-40301951
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40301951,
year = {2025},
author = {Jafari-Vayghan, H and Rahimlou, M and Almasi-Hashiani, A and Aframehr, E and Saleh-Ghadimi, S},
title = {Effect of the vitamin D supplementation on clinical outcomes and inflammatory status in COVID-19 patients: an umbrella review.},
journal = {BMC nutrition},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {86},
pmid = {40301951},
issn = {2055-0928},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The role of vitamin D supplementation in modulating clinical outcomes and inflammatory responses in COVID- 19 patients has garnered significant interest. This umbrella review consolidates current evidence to evaluate the association between vitamin D supplementation and COVID- 19-related outcomes.
METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases to identify relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Studies assessing the impact of vitamin D supplementation on disease severity, mortality, hospitalization, and inflammatory markers in COVID- 19 patients were included. Methodological quality was assessed using standardized tools.
RESULTS: The findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation may be associated with reduced mortality and improved clinical outcomes in COVID- 19 patients. Several studies reported a decrease in inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein and interleukin- 6, following supplementation. However, variations in study design, dosage regimens, and baseline vitamin D status limit the generalizability of results.
CONCLUSION: Vitamin D supplementation appears to have a potential role in improving clinical outcomes and modulating inflammatory responses in COVID- 19 patients. Nevertheless, due to heterogeneity among studies, further high-quality randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings.},
}
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Identification and classification of risk factors for mental health problems in healthcare workers using a systemic framework: an umbrella review.
BMC public health, 25(1):1581.
BACKGROUND: Mental health problems are high among healthcare workers (HCWs) due to difficult and complex working conditions. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of depression and anxiety through existing meta-analyses and identify risk factors related to these mental health issues at different levels of the work system.
METHODS: We conducted an umbrella review with a scoping approach to identify and select studies related to depression and anxiety among HCWs. This study was conducted according to a five-step scoping approach. The search included only studies published before January 2024. The final studies were reviewed and selected using EndNote X9, with information extracted according to specific criteria.
RESULTS: Sixty-one studies were included in the final stage and necessary information was extracted from them, 47 articles reported prevalence and risk factors were extracted from 29 articles. Most of the studies were conducted in the context of Covid-19. prevalence of depression varied between 20.5% and 46.2% and for anxiety, it was between 21.9 and 47%. Factors related to depression and anxiety were divided into four levels of the work system, including individual factors, work and unit factors, organizational factors, and external factors.
CONCLUSIONS: Numerous secondary studies indicate a high prevalence of depression and anxiety among HCWs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study introduces a framework for systematically identifying mental health problems. Future research is encouraged to utilize this framework to identify risk factors contributing to mental health challenges. It is recommended to use a systemic approach to managing mental health problems.
Additional Links: PMID-40301825
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40301825,
year = {2025},
author = {Khanlari, P and NoorbalaTafti, A and Ghasemi, F and Ghiyasvandian, S and Azam, K and Zakerian, SA},
title = {Identification and classification of risk factors for mental health problems in healthcare workers using a systemic framework: an umbrella review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1581},
pmid = {40301825},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Risk Factors ; *Depression/epidemiology ; COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Anxiety/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mental health problems are high among healthcare workers (HCWs) due to difficult and complex working conditions. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of depression and anxiety through existing meta-analyses and identify risk factors related to these mental health issues at different levels of the work system.
METHODS: We conducted an umbrella review with a scoping approach to identify and select studies related to depression and anxiety among HCWs. This study was conducted according to a five-step scoping approach. The search included only studies published before January 2024. The final studies were reviewed and selected using EndNote X9, with information extracted according to specific criteria.
RESULTS: Sixty-one studies were included in the final stage and necessary information was extracted from them, 47 articles reported prevalence and risk factors were extracted from 29 articles. Most of the studies were conducted in the context of Covid-19. prevalence of depression varied between 20.5% and 46.2% and for anxiety, it was between 21.9 and 47%. Factors related to depression and anxiety were divided into four levels of the work system, including individual factors, work and unit factors, organizational factors, and external factors.
CONCLUSIONS: Numerous secondary studies indicate a high prevalence of depression and anxiety among HCWs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study introduces a framework for systematically identifying mental health problems. Future research is encouraged to utilize this framework to identify risk factors contributing to mental health challenges. It is recommended to use a systemic approach to managing mental health problems.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Risk Factors
*Depression/epidemiology
COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Anxiety/epidemiology
Prevalence
Mental Disorders/epidemiology
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Differences in chest imaging between Omicron and non-Omicron coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BMC infectious diseases, 25(1):631.
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have posed a great threat to human health. We carried out this systematic review and meta-analysis for two objectives. First, to evaluate the differences in lung infection between the Omicron variants and the non-Omicron strains by chest computed tomography (CT); second, to evaluate the differences in chest CT features between COVID-19 patients with the Omicron variants and those with non-Omicron strains in CT-positive cases.
METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for articles and performed a meta-analysis using Stata 14.0 with a random effects model.
RESULTS: Our study included a total of 8126 patients with COVID-19, 4113 with the Omicron variants, and 4013 with non-Omicron strains. Patients with the Omicron variants were less likely to be CT-positive (OR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.08-0.25), and further analysis among CT-positive patients was performed. Compared with the CT images of patients with non-Omicron strains, those of patients with the Omicron variants showed atypical pulmonary features (OR = 4.02, 95% CI: 2.31-6.98). Moreover, patients with the Omicron variants typically had lesions that were mainly located in the center of the lung (OR = 4.51, 95% CI: 1.38-14.76) and in a single lobe (OR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.10-2.70). The patients with the Omicron variants were less likely to have lesions in both lungs (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15-0.69), more likely to have bronchial wall thickening (OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.05-3.77) and less likely to have the crazy-paving pattern (OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.33-0.81), linear opacity (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.12-0.60), and vascular enlargement (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.35-0.84).
CONCLUSIONS: Through meta-analysis, which yields the highest level of evidence for evidence-based medicine, we further confirmed that there were significant differences in the distribution and manifestations of lesions between patients with non-Omicron strains and those with the Omicron variants on chest CT. The variation in SARS-CoV-2 has never stopped. Our findings are useful for the diagnosis and treatment of new SARS-CoV-2 variants that may appear in the future and provide a basis for public health decision-making.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024581869.
Additional Links: PMID-40301746
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40301746,
year = {2025},
author = {Han, Y and Wang, Z and Li, X and Zhong, Z},
title = {Differences in chest imaging between Omicron and non-Omicron coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {631},
pmid = {40301746},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {No. JJKH20221045KJ//Scientific and technological research program of Jilin provincial education department/ ; No. JJKH20221045KJ//Scientific and technological research program of Jilin provincial education department/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/virology ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *Lung/diagnostic imaging/virology/pathology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have posed a great threat to human health. We carried out this systematic review and meta-analysis for two objectives. First, to evaluate the differences in lung infection between the Omicron variants and the non-Omicron strains by chest computed tomography (CT); second, to evaluate the differences in chest CT features between COVID-19 patients with the Omicron variants and those with non-Omicron strains in CT-positive cases.
METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for articles and performed a meta-analysis using Stata 14.0 with a random effects model.
RESULTS: Our study included a total of 8126 patients with COVID-19, 4113 with the Omicron variants, and 4013 with non-Omicron strains. Patients with the Omicron variants were less likely to be CT-positive (OR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.08-0.25), and further analysis among CT-positive patients was performed. Compared with the CT images of patients with non-Omicron strains, those of patients with the Omicron variants showed atypical pulmonary features (OR = 4.02, 95% CI: 2.31-6.98). Moreover, patients with the Omicron variants typically had lesions that were mainly located in the center of the lung (OR = 4.51, 95% CI: 1.38-14.76) and in a single lobe (OR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.10-2.70). The patients with the Omicron variants were less likely to have lesions in both lungs (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15-0.69), more likely to have bronchial wall thickening (OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.05-3.77) and less likely to have the crazy-paving pattern (OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.33-0.81), linear opacity (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.12-0.60), and vascular enlargement (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.35-0.84).
CONCLUSIONS: Through meta-analysis, which yields the highest level of evidence for evidence-based medicine, we further confirmed that there were significant differences in the distribution and manifestations of lesions between patients with non-Omicron strains and those with the Omicron variants on chest CT. The variation in SARS-CoV-2 has never stopped. Our findings are useful for the diagnosis and treatment of new SARS-CoV-2 variants that may appear in the future and provide a basis for public health decision-making.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024581869.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/virology
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*Lung/diagnostic imaging/virology/pathology
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health emergency and disaster risk management systems: a scoping review of mental health support provided to health care workers.
Journal of occupational health, 67(1):.
OBJECTIVES: This systematic scoping review examined the strategies used by different countries and institutions to support the mental health of health care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic, to identify effective practices and the lessons learned in dealing with the associated challenges.
METHODS: Of 1330 retrieved articles from PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science, 34 articles were ultimately included in the final analysis.
RESULTS: The analysis revealed that mental health consultation services, especially telephone support lines, online interventions, and apps, played a critical role in addressing the psychological burden experienced by HCWs. Group activities and peer support strategies offered personalized support, and educational programs offered crucial information regarding stress management. Improvements in the work environment, such as the addition of dedicated rest areas, enhanced the well-being of HCWs. However, many interventions suffered from low participation and a lack of tailored content, despite their apparent effectiveness.
CONCLUSIONS: Many interventions have focused on psychological support and resilience-building for HCWs, but they often overlook systemic issues. Comprehensive mental health support must address these systemic factors, such as adequate staffing, training, and resource allocation. Future strategies should emphasize leadership commitment to tackling root causes and actively involve HCWs in program design to ensure relevance and effectiveness. Educational resources and wellness interventions, although reported as effective, need to be tailored and adapted to specific emergencies. Additionally, research gaps, especially in low-resource settings, highlight the need for further studies to enhance preparedness for future crises.
Additional Links: PMID-40163647
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40163647,
year = {2025},
author = {Amarsanaa, J and Batsaikhan, O and Jargalsaikhan, B and Kubo, T and Ghotbi, N and Kayano, R and Chimed-Ochir, O},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health emergency and disaster risk management systems: a scoping review of mental health support provided to health care workers.},
journal = {Journal of occupational health},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/joccuh/uiaf020},
pmid = {40163647},
issn = {1348-9585},
support = {//World Health Organization Kobe Centre for Health Development/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Risk Management ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Mental Health ; Pandemics ; Resilience, Psychological ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This systematic scoping review examined the strategies used by different countries and institutions to support the mental health of health care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic, to identify effective practices and the lessons learned in dealing with the associated challenges.
METHODS: Of 1330 retrieved articles from PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science, 34 articles were ultimately included in the final analysis.
RESULTS: The analysis revealed that mental health consultation services, especially telephone support lines, online interventions, and apps, played a critical role in addressing the psychological burden experienced by HCWs. Group activities and peer support strategies offered personalized support, and educational programs offered crucial information regarding stress management. Improvements in the work environment, such as the addition of dedicated rest areas, enhanced the well-being of HCWs. However, many interventions suffered from low participation and a lack of tailored content, despite their apparent effectiveness.
CONCLUSIONS: Many interventions have focused on psychological support and resilience-building for HCWs, but they often overlook systemic issues. Comprehensive mental health support must address these systemic factors, such as adequate staffing, training, and resource allocation. Future strategies should emphasize leadership commitment to tackling root causes and actively involve HCWs in program design to ensure relevance and effectiveness. Educational resources and wellness interventions, although reported as effective, need to be tailored and adapted to specific emergencies. Additionally, research gaps, especially in low-resource settings, highlight the need for further studies to enhance preparedness for future crises.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Risk Management
SARS-CoV-2
Mental Health
Pandemics
Resilience, Psychological
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02
Global, regional, and national burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis, 1990-2021, and projections to 2050: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.
The Lancet. Respiratory medicine, 13(5):425-446.
BACKGROUND: Asthma and atopic dermatitis are common allergic conditions that contribute to substantial health loss, economic burden, and pain across individuals of all ages worldwide. Therefore, as a component of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, we present updated estimates of the prevalence, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), incidence, and deaths due to asthma and atopic dermatitis and the burden attributable to modifiable risk factors, with forecasted prevalence up to 2050.
METHODS: Asthma and atopic dermatitis prevalence, incidence, DALYs, and mortality, with corresponding 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs), were estimated for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021. A systematic review identified data from 389 sources for asthma and 316 for atopic dermatitis, which were further pooled using the Bayesian meta-regression tool. We also described the age-standardised DALY rates of asthma attributable to four modifiable risk factors: high BMI, occupational asthmagens, smoking, and nitrogen dioxide pollution. Furthermore, as a secondary analysis, prevalence was forecasted to 2050 using the Socio-demographic Index (SDI), air pollution, and smoking as predictors for asthma and atopic dermatitis. To assess trends in the burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis before (2010-19) and during (2019-21) the COVID-19 pandemic, we compared their average annual percentage changes (AAPCs).
FINDINGS: In 2021, there were an estimated 260 million (95% UI 227-298) individuals with asthma and 129 million (124-134) individuals with atopic dermatitis worldwide. Asthma cases declined from 287 million (250-331) in 1990 to 238 million (209-272) in 2005 but increased to 260 million in 2021. Atopic dermatitis cases consistently rose from 107 million (103-112) in 1990 to 129 million (124-134) in 2021. However, age-standardised prevalence rates decreased-by 40·0% (from 5568·3 per 100 000 to 3340·1 per 100 000) for asthma and 8·3% (from 1885·4 per 100 000 to 1728·5 per 100 000) for atopic dermatitis. In 2021, there were substantial variations in the burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis across different SDI groups, with the highest age-standardised DALY rate found in south Asia for asthma (465·0 [357·2-648·9] per 100 000) and the high-income super-region for atopic dermatitis (3552·5 [3407·2-3706·1] per 100 000). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the decline in asthma prevalence had stagnated (AAPC pre-pandemic -1·39% [-2·07 to -0·71] and during the pandemic 0·47% [-1·86 to 2·79]; p=0·020); however, there was no significant difference in atopic dermatitis prevalence in the same period (pre-pandemic -0·28% [-0·33 to -0·22] and during the pandemic -0·35% [-0·78 to 0·08]; p=0·20). Modifiable risk factors were responsible for 29·9% of the global asthma DALY burden; among them, high BMI was the greatest contributor (39·4 [19·6-60·2] per 100 000), followed by occupational asthmagens (20·8 [16·7-26·5] per 100 000) across all regions. The age-standardised DALY rate of asthma attributable to high BMI was highest in high-SDI settings, whereas the contribution of occupational asthmagens was highest in low-SDI settings. According to our forecasting models, we expect 275 million (224-330) asthma cases and 148 million (140-158) atopic dermatitis cases in 2050, with population growth driving this increase. However, age-standardised prevalence rates are expected to remain stable (-23·2% [-44·4 to 5·3] for asthma and -1·4% [-9·1 to 7·0] for atopic dermatitis) from 2021 to 2050.
INTERPRETATION: Although the increases in the total number of asthma and atopic dermatitis cases will probably continue until 2050, age-standardised prevalence rates are expected to remain stable. A considerable portion of the global burden could be managed through efforts to address modifiable risk factors. Additionally, the contribution of risk factors to the burden substantially varied by SDI, which suggests the need for tailored initiatives for specific SDI settings. The growing number of individuals expected to be affected by asthma and atopic dermatitis in the future suggests that it is essential to improve our understanding of risk factors for asthma and atopic dermatitis and collect disease prevalence data that are globally generalisable.
FUNDING: Gates Foundation.
Additional Links: PMID-40147466
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid40147466,
year = {2025},
author = {, },
title = {Global, regional, and national burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis, 1990-2021, and projections to 2050: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.},
journal = {The Lancet. Respiratory medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {425-446},
doi = {10.1016/S2213-2600(25)00003-7},
pmid = {40147466},
issn = {2213-2619},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dermatitis, Atopic/epidemiology/mortality ; *Asthma/epidemiology/mortality ; *Global Burden of Disease/trends ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; Disability-Adjusted Life Years ; Incidence ; Global Health ; Adult ; Female ; Male ; Forecasting ; Bayes Theorem ; Cost of Illness ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Asthma and atopic dermatitis are common allergic conditions that contribute to substantial health loss, economic burden, and pain across individuals of all ages worldwide. Therefore, as a component of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, we present updated estimates of the prevalence, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), incidence, and deaths due to asthma and atopic dermatitis and the burden attributable to modifiable risk factors, with forecasted prevalence up to 2050.
METHODS: Asthma and atopic dermatitis prevalence, incidence, DALYs, and mortality, with corresponding 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs), were estimated for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021. A systematic review identified data from 389 sources for asthma and 316 for atopic dermatitis, which were further pooled using the Bayesian meta-regression tool. We also described the age-standardised DALY rates of asthma attributable to four modifiable risk factors: high BMI, occupational asthmagens, smoking, and nitrogen dioxide pollution. Furthermore, as a secondary analysis, prevalence was forecasted to 2050 using the Socio-demographic Index (SDI), air pollution, and smoking as predictors for asthma and atopic dermatitis. To assess trends in the burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis before (2010-19) and during (2019-21) the COVID-19 pandemic, we compared their average annual percentage changes (AAPCs).
FINDINGS: In 2021, there were an estimated 260 million (95% UI 227-298) individuals with asthma and 129 million (124-134) individuals with atopic dermatitis worldwide. Asthma cases declined from 287 million (250-331) in 1990 to 238 million (209-272) in 2005 but increased to 260 million in 2021. Atopic dermatitis cases consistently rose from 107 million (103-112) in 1990 to 129 million (124-134) in 2021. However, age-standardised prevalence rates decreased-by 40·0% (from 5568·3 per 100 000 to 3340·1 per 100 000) for asthma and 8·3% (from 1885·4 per 100 000 to 1728·5 per 100 000) for atopic dermatitis. In 2021, there were substantial variations in the burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis across different SDI groups, with the highest age-standardised DALY rate found in south Asia for asthma (465·0 [357·2-648·9] per 100 000) and the high-income super-region for atopic dermatitis (3552·5 [3407·2-3706·1] per 100 000). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the decline in asthma prevalence had stagnated (AAPC pre-pandemic -1·39% [-2·07 to -0·71] and during the pandemic 0·47% [-1·86 to 2·79]; p=0·020); however, there was no significant difference in atopic dermatitis prevalence in the same period (pre-pandemic -0·28% [-0·33 to -0·22] and during the pandemic -0·35% [-0·78 to 0·08]; p=0·20). Modifiable risk factors were responsible for 29·9% of the global asthma DALY burden; among them, high BMI was the greatest contributor (39·4 [19·6-60·2] per 100 000), followed by occupational asthmagens (20·8 [16·7-26·5] per 100 000) across all regions. The age-standardised DALY rate of asthma attributable to high BMI was highest in high-SDI settings, whereas the contribution of occupational asthmagens was highest in low-SDI settings. According to our forecasting models, we expect 275 million (224-330) asthma cases and 148 million (140-158) atopic dermatitis cases in 2050, with population growth driving this increase. However, age-standardised prevalence rates are expected to remain stable (-23·2% [-44·4 to 5·3] for asthma and -1·4% [-9·1 to 7·0] for atopic dermatitis) from 2021 to 2050.
INTERPRETATION: Although the increases in the total number of asthma and atopic dermatitis cases will probably continue until 2050, age-standardised prevalence rates are expected to remain stable. A considerable portion of the global burden could be managed through efforts to address modifiable risk factors. Additionally, the contribution of risk factors to the burden substantially varied by SDI, which suggests the need for tailored initiatives for specific SDI settings. The growing number of individuals expected to be affected by asthma and atopic dermatitis in the future suggests that it is essential to improve our understanding of risk factors for asthma and atopic dermatitis and collect disease prevalence data that are globally generalisable.
FUNDING: Gates Foundation.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Dermatitis, Atopic/epidemiology/mortality
*Asthma/epidemiology/mortality
*Global Burden of Disease/trends
Prevalence
Risk Factors
Disability-Adjusted Life Years
Incidence
Global Health
Adult
Female
Male
Forecasting
Bayes Theorem
Cost of Illness
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02
Leptospirosis, melioidosis, and rickettsioses in the vicious circle of neglect.
PLoS neglected tropical diseases, 19(1):e0012796.
The global priorities in the field of infectious diseases are constantly changing. While emerging viral infections have regularly dominated public health attention, which has only intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous bacterial diseases have previously caused, and continue to cause, significant morbidity and mortality-deserving equal attention. Three potentially life-threatening endemic bacterial diseases (leptospirosis, melioidosis, and rickettsioses) are a huge public health concern especially in low- and middle-income countries. Despite their continued threat, these diseases do not receive proportionate attention from global health organizations and are not even included on the WHO list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). This, in turn, has led to a vicious circle of neglect with continued, yet conceivably preventable, hospitalizations and deaths each year especially in the vulnerable population. This is a call from a group of multi-institutional experts on the urgent need to directly address the circle of neglect and raise support in terms of funding, research, surveillance, diagnostics, and therapeutics to alleviate the burden of these 3 diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-39847571
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39847571,
year = {2025},
author = {Tshokey, T and Ko, AI and Currie, BJ and Munoz-Zanzi, C and Goarant, C and Paris, DH and Dance, DAB and Limmathurotsakul, D and Birnie, E and Bertherat, E and Gongal, G and Benschop, J and Savelkoel, J and Stenos, J and Saraswati, K and Robinson, MT and Day, NPJ and Graves, SR and Belmain, SR and Blacksell, SD and Wiersinga, WJ},
title = {Leptospirosis, melioidosis, and rickettsioses in the vicious circle of neglect.},
journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {e0012796},
pmid = {39847571},
issn = {1935-2735},
support = {001/WHO_/World Health Organization/International ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Melioidosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/prevention & control ; *Neglected Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control/microbiology ; *Leptospirosis/epidemiology/prevention & control/diagnosis ; *Rickettsia Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/prevention & control ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {The global priorities in the field of infectious diseases are constantly changing. While emerging viral infections have regularly dominated public health attention, which has only intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous bacterial diseases have previously caused, and continue to cause, significant morbidity and mortality-deserving equal attention. Three potentially life-threatening endemic bacterial diseases (leptospirosis, melioidosis, and rickettsioses) are a huge public health concern especially in low- and middle-income countries. Despite their continued threat, these diseases do not receive proportionate attention from global health organizations and are not even included on the WHO list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). This, in turn, has led to a vicious circle of neglect with continued, yet conceivably preventable, hospitalizations and deaths each year especially in the vulnerable population. This is a call from a group of multi-institutional experts on the urgent need to directly address the circle of neglect and raise support in terms of funding, research, surveillance, diagnostics, and therapeutics to alleviate the burden of these 3 diseases.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Melioidosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/prevention & control
*Neglected Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control/microbiology
*Leptospirosis/epidemiology/prevention & control/diagnosis
*Rickettsia Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/prevention & control
COVID-19/epidemiology
Global Health
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02
From Epithelium to Therapy: Transitional Cells in Lung Fibrosis.
American journal of respiratory cell and molecular biology, 72(5):472-483.
Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung fibrosis secondary to infections such as influenza A and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have limited treatment options outside of supportive therapy and lung transplantation. Multiple lung stem cell populations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis, and more progenitor cell populations continue to be discovered and characterized. In this review, we summarize the functions and differentiation pathways of various cells that constitute the lung epithelium. We then focus on two subpopulations of KRT5[+] or KRT8[+] transitional cells that both originate from alveolar type II cells but experience different cell fates and play important roles in lung regeneration and repair. We address these transitional cells' potential role in fibrosis and bronchiolization of the alveoli, as they are correlated to aggregate near fibrotic foci in both in vivo models and in human fibrotic lung disease. We conclude by discussing recent advances in cell and organoid therapy to replace aberrant transitional cells and treat lung fibrosis. Namely, we focus on strategies to minimize immune clearance of transplanted cells and to optimize engraftment by transplanting cells precultured as three-dimensional organoids.
Additional Links: PMID-39642382
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39642382,
year = {2025},
author = {Shin, SY and Chen, J and Milman Krentsis, I and Reisner, Y and Abrencillo, R and Hussain, R and Wu, D and Karmouty-Quintana, H},
title = {From Epithelium to Therapy: Transitional Cells in Lung Fibrosis.},
journal = {American journal of respiratory cell and molecular biology},
volume = {72},
number = {5},
pages = {472-483},
doi = {10.1165/rcmb.2024-0372TR},
pmid = {39642382},
issn = {1535-4989},
support = {R01 HL138510/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 HL157100/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; R35 HL171346/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01HL138510/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/pathology/therapy ; Lung/pathology ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/therapy/pathology ; Cell Differentiation ; COVID-19/complications ; Stem Cells/metabolism ; Alveolar Epithelial Cells/metabolism/pathology ; Epithelium/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung fibrosis secondary to infections such as influenza A and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have limited treatment options outside of supportive therapy and lung transplantation. Multiple lung stem cell populations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis, and more progenitor cell populations continue to be discovered and characterized. In this review, we summarize the functions and differentiation pathways of various cells that constitute the lung epithelium. We then focus on two subpopulations of KRT5[+] or KRT8[+] transitional cells that both originate from alveolar type II cells but experience different cell fates and play important roles in lung regeneration and repair. We address these transitional cells' potential role in fibrosis and bronchiolization of the alveoli, as they are correlated to aggregate near fibrotic foci in both in vivo models and in human fibrotic lung disease. We conclude by discussing recent advances in cell and organoid therapy to replace aberrant transitional cells and treat lung fibrosis. Namely, we focus on strategies to minimize immune clearance of transplanted cells and to optimize engraftment by transplanting cells precultured as three-dimensional organoids.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Animals
*Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/pathology/therapy
Lung/pathology
*Pulmonary Fibrosis/therapy/pathology
Cell Differentiation
COVID-19/complications
Stem Cells/metabolism
Alveolar Epithelial Cells/metabolism/pathology
Epithelium/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02
Understanding the use of telemedicine across different opioid use disorder treatment models: A scoping review.
Journal of telemedicine and telecare, 31(4):500-514.
IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has instigated the development of telemedicine-mediated provision of medications for opioid use disorder such as buprenorphine and methadone, referred to as TMOUD in this study. As services start to return to pre-pandemic norms, there is a debate around the role of TMOUD as addition to or replacement of the conventional cascade of care for people with opioid use disorder (PWOUD). This scoping review is designed to characterize existing TMOUD services and provide insights to enable a more nuanced discussion on the role of telemedicine in the care of PWOUD.MethodsThe literature search was conducted in OVID Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, from inception up to and including April 2023, using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. The review considered any study design that detailed sufficient descriptive information on a given TMOUD service. A data extraction form was developed to collect and categorize a range of descriptive characteristics of each discrete TMOUD model identified from the obtained articles.ResultsA total of 45 articles met the inclusion criteria, and from this, 40 discrete TMOUD services were identified. In total, 33 services were US-based, three from Canada, and one each from India, Ireland, the UK, and Norway. Through a detailed analysis of TMOUD service characteristics, four models of care were identified. These were TMOUD to facilitate inclusion health, to facilitate transitions in care, to meet complex healthcare needs, and to maintain opioid use disorder (OUD) service resilience.ConclusionsCharacterizing TMOUD according to its functional benefits to PWOUD and OUD services will help support evidence-based policy and practice. Additionally, particular attention is given to how digital exclusion of PWOUD can be mitigated against.
Additional Links: PMID-37661829
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid37661829,
year = {2025},
author = {Tay Wee Teck, J and Butner, JL and Baldacchino, A},
title = {Understanding the use of telemedicine across different opioid use disorder treatment models: A scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of telemedicine and telecare},
volume = {31},
number = {4},
pages = {500-514},
pmid = {37661829},
issn = {1758-1109},
mesh = {Humans ; *Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy/therapy ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; *Opiate Substitution Treatment/methods ; Methadone/therapeutic use ; Buprenorphine/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has instigated the development of telemedicine-mediated provision of medications for opioid use disorder such as buprenorphine and methadone, referred to as TMOUD in this study. As services start to return to pre-pandemic norms, there is a debate around the role of TMOUD as addition to or replacement of the conventional cascade of care for people with opioid use disorder (PWOUD). This scoping review is designed to characterize existing TMOUD services and provide insights to enable a more nuanced discussion on the role of telemedicine in the care of PWOUD.MethodsThe literature search was conducted in OVID Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, from inception up to and including April 2023, using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. The review considered any study design that detailed sufficient descriptive information on a given TMOUD service. A data extraction form was developed to collect and categorize a range of descriptive characteristics of each discrete TMOUD model identified from the obtained articles.ResultsA total of 45 articles met the inclusion criteria, and from this, 40 discrete TMOUD services were identified. In total, 33 services were US-based, three from Canada, and one each from India, Ireland, the UK, and Norway. Through a detailed analysis of TMOUD service characteristics, four models of care were identified. These were TMOUD to facilitate inclusion health, to facilitate transitions in care, to meet complex healthcare needs, and to maintain opioid use disorder (OUD) service resilience.ConclusionsCharacterizing TMOUD according to its functional benefits to PWOUD and OUD services will help support evidence-based policy and practice. Additionally, particular attention is given to how digital exclusion of PWOUD can be mitigated against.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy/therapy
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
*Opiate Substitution Treatment/methods
Methadone/therapeutic use
Buprenorphine/therapeutic use
COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents with New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes.
Pediatric diabetes, 2023:7660985.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has an impact on the incidence of type 1 diabetes and frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis. However, the exact relationships are unclear. It is also not known whether this is a short-term phenomenon or whether the effects have long-term relevance. Furthermore, it is not known whether these changes during the pandemic are due to direct effects of SARS-CoV-2 or to changes in the patient's environment during the pandemic.
METHODS: We conducted an extensive literature search on PubMed. For the estimation of relative risks of new-onset type 1 diabetes, we applied a Poisson regression model and for the comparison of incidences and we included the logarithm of person-years. Furthermore, we performed a meta-analysis using the logarithm of the relative risk for new-onset type 1 diabetes as effect size.
RESULTS: Pooling the relative risk estimates in a random-effects meta-analysis revealed that the type 1 diabetes incidence rate increased by 20% (relative risk 1.200 (95% CI 1.125, 1.281)), and that the risk of new-onset type 1 diabetes after a SARS-CoV-2 infection increased by 62% (relative risk 1.622 (95% CI 1.347, 1.953)) compared with the prepandemic period.
CONCLUSION: There is considerable evidence that there is an increase in type 1 diabetes in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many studies suggesting a direct effect of SARS-CoV-2 have methodological weaknesses. As no evidence of an increase in presymptomatic cases with isolated islet autoimmunity was found, this could also suggest an accelerated transition from presymptomatic patients to clinically overt type 1 diabetes. Furthermore, there was a marked exacerbation of the preexisting increase in the prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes during the pandemic. Both the increased incidence of paediatric type 1 diabetes and the higher prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis led to a massive rise in the number of children with diabetic ketoacidosis during the pandemic.
Additional Links: PMID-40303240
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40303240,
year = {2023},
author = {Kamrath, C and Eckert, AJ and Holl, RW and Rosenbauer, J},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents with New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes.},
journal = {Pediatric diabetes},
volume = {2023},
number = {},
pages = {7660985},
pmid = {40303240},
issn = {1399-5448},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Child ; Adolescent ; Incidence ; Diabetic Ketoacidosis/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has an impact on the incidence of type 1 diabetes and frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis. However, the exact relationships are unclear. It is also not known whether this is a short-term phenomenon or whether the effects have long-term relevance. Furthermore, it is not known whether these changes during the pandemic are due to direct effects of SARS-CoV-2 or to changes in the patient's environment during the pandemic.
METHODS: We conducted an extensive literature search on PubMed. For the estimation of relative risks of new-onset type 1 diabetes, we applied a Poisson regression model and for the comparison of incidences and we included the logarithm of person-years. Furthermore, we performed a meta-analysis using the logarithm of the relative risk for new-onset type 1 diabetes as effect size.
RESULTS: Pooling the relative risk estimates in a random-effects meta-analysis revealed that the type 1 diabetes incidence rate increased by 20% (relative risk 1.200 (95% CI 1.125, 1.281)), and that the risk of new-onset type 1 diabetes after a SARS-CoV-2 infection increased by 62% (relative risk 1.622 (95% CI 1.347, 1.953)) compared with the prepandemic period.
CONCLUSION: There is considerable evidence that there is an increase in type 1 diabetes in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many studies suggesting a direct effect of SARS-CoV-2 have methodological weaknesses. As no evidence of an increase in presymptomatic cases with isolated islet autoimmunity was found, this could also suggest an accelerated transition from presymptomatic patients to clinically overt type 1 diabetes. Furthermore, there was a marked exacerbation of the preexisting increase in the prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes during the pandemic. Both the increased incidence of paediatric type 1 diabetes and the higher prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis led to a massive rise in the number of children with diabetic ketoacidosis during the pandemic.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Child
Adolescent
Incidence
Diabetic Ketoacidosis/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02
Racism and the mental health of East Asian diasporas in North America: a scoping review.
Journal of mental health (Abingdon, England), 34(2):166-181.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic heightened anti-Asian racism towards East Asian diasporas in North America. Experiences of racism encountered by East Asian communities have been documented to negatively impact their mental health.
METHODS: A scoping review was undertaken following Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) methodology to (a) map the foci of literature on racism and the mental health of East Asian diasporas in North America and (b) identify gaps in the current literature.
RESULTS: A total of 1309 articles were identified in May 2021. Based on the inclusion criteria, 35 records were included. Two distinct mental health foci were found: mental health outcomes and mental healthcare access and utilization. The majority (n = 22) of the articles focused on racism at the interpersonal level. Six articles provided anti-racism solutions at the individual level, such as overcoming biases. Five articles targeted anti-racism solutions from both the individual and institutional levels, while 1 article addressed barriers at the institutional level, such as dismantling sanctioned power hierarchies.
CONCLUSION: The expanding knowledge base on COVID-19-related racial discrimination is reminiscent of previous literature examining the history of anti-Asian racism in North America. Greater attention is needed to navigate impactful anti-racism solutions for East Asian populations' mental health in North America.
Additional Links: PMID-35543389
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid35543389,
year = {2025},
author = {Louie-Poon, S and Idrees, S and Plesuk, T and Hilario, C and Scott, SD},
title = {Racism and the mental health of East Asian diasporas in North America: a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of mental health (Abingdon, England)},
volume = {34},
number = {2},
pages = {166-181},
doi = {10.1080/09638237.2022.2069715},
pmid = {35543389},
issn = {1360-0567},
mesh = {Humans ; *Racism/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/ethnology ; *Mental Health/ethnology ; North America ; Asia, Eastern/ethnology ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic heightened anti-Asian racism towards East Asian diasporas in North America. Experiences of racism encountered by East Asian communities have been documented to negatively impact their mental health.
METHODS: A scoping review was undertaken following Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) methodology to (a) map the foci of literature on racism and the mental health of East Asian diasporas in North America and (b) identify gaps in the current literature.
RESULTS: A total of 1309 articles were identified in May 2021. Based on the inclusion criteria, 35 records were included. Two distinct mental health foci were found: mental health outcomes and mental healthcare access and utilization. The majority (n = 22) of the articles focused on racism at the interpersonal level. Six articles provided anti-racism solutions at the individual level, such as overcoming biases. Five articles targeted anti-racism solutions from both the individual and institutional levels, while 1 article addressed barriers at the institutional level, such as dismantling sanctioned power hierarchies.
CONCLUSION: The expanding knowledge base on COVID-19-related racial discrimination is reminiscent of previous literature examining the history of anti-Asian racism in North America. Greater attention is needed to navigate impactful anti-racism solutions for East Asian populations' mental health in North America.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Racism/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/ethnology
*Mental Health/ethnology
North America
Asia, Eastern/ethnology
East Asian People
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit.
Medical gas research, 15(4):478-487.
Oxygen therapy is a crucial treatment method for maintaining vital signs in patients in the intensive care unit. However, several controversial issues have emerged regarding its clinical application. This article analyzes current research trends in oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit and provides guidance and recommendations. Relevant literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, and keyword co-occurrence and highly cited literature hotspot analyses were conducted using VOSviewer 1.6.19 software. The key topics related to oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit primarily focus on four areas: oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 and its role in reducing mortality, research on hypoxia and oxygen saturation monitoring, and oxygen inhalation therapy in the intensive care unit. The analysis of highly cited literature indicates that the main research hotspots regarding oxygen therapy used in the intensive care unit focus primarily on conservative oxygen therapy, high-flow nasal oxygen therapy, comparisons of high- and low-oxygenation strategies, and research on hyperbaric oxygen therapy. First, the potential of conservative oxygen therapy to reduce mortality rates in the intensive care unit has attracted considerable attention; however, further clinical studies are needed to validate its optimal parameters and suitable patient populations. Second, high-flow nasal oxygen therapy has been shown to be effective in alleviating respiratory distress and reducing the need for intubation. This therapy can deliver oxygen flows of up to 60 L/min, effectively improving respiratory distress and decreasing intubation demands. In patients subjected to high-risk extubation, the combination of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy and noninvasive ventilation significantly lowers the rate of reintubation, making the combined approach one of the best strategies to prevent respiratory failure after extubation in the intensive care unit. Third, there are differences between lower and higher oxygenation strategies regarding their effects on patient mortality, long-term outcomes, and clinician preferences; however, there is currently no clear evidence indicating which strategy is superior. Clinicians' preferences regarding various oxygenation targets may impact the design of future studies. Finally, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is recognized as an effective supportive treatment for various critical conditions and has significant application value in acute severe traumatic brain injury, cerebral resuscitation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Currently, researchers are continually exploring the latest oxygen therapies in the intensive care unit. Several randomized controlled clinical trials investigating automated oxygen control, novel high-flow nasal oxygen therapy, and combined oxygen therapy are underway. The results of these trials should be closely observed. Overall, this article provides a systematic review and valuable reference for the scientific and rational application of oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit. Future research should focus on verifying the optimal parameters of conservative oxygen therapy, assessing oxygen needs in different patient populations, evaluating the long-term effects of oxygen treatment, and developing novel oxygen therapy technologies and devices.
Additional Links: PMID-40300883
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40300883,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, P and Huang, Q and Liu, B and Xu, Q and Li, X and Feng, G and Liu, Y},
title = {Oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit.},
journal = {Medical gas research},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {478-487},
doi = {10.4103/mgr.MEDGASRES-D-24-00143},
pmid = {40300883},
issn = {2045-9912},
mesh = {Humans ; *Intensive Care Units ; *Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/methods ; COVID-19/therapy ; Respiration, Artificial ; Oxygen ; Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Oxygen therapy is a crucial treatment method for maintaining vital signs in patients in the intensive care unit. However, several controversial issues have emerged regarding its clinical application. This article analyzes current research trends in oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit and provides guidance and recommendations. Relevant literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, and keyword co-occurrence and highly cited literature hotspot analyses were conducted using VOSviewer 1.6.19 software. The key topics related to oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit primarily focus on four areas: oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 and its role in reducing mortality, research on hypoxia and oxygen saturation monitoring, and oxygen inhalation therapy in the intensive care unit. The analysis of highly cited literature indicates that the main research hotspots regarding oxygen therapy used in the intensive care unit focus primarily on conservative oxygen therapy, high-flow nasal oxygen therapy, comparisons of high- and low-oxygenation strategies, and research on hyperbaric oxygen therapy. First, the potential of conservative oxygen therapy to reduce mortality rates in the intensive care unit has attracted considerable attention; however, further clinical studies are needed to validate its optimal parameters and suitable patient populations. Second, high-flow nasal oxygen therapy has been shown to be effective in alleviating respiratory distress and reducing the need for intubation. This therapy can deliver oxygen flows of up to 60 L/min, effectively improving respiratory distress and decreasing intubation demands. In patients subjected to high-risk extubation, the combination of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy and noninvasive ventilation significantly lowers the rate of reintubation, making the combined approach one of the best strategies to prevent respiratory failure after extubation in the intensive care unit. Third, there are differences between lower and higher oxygenation strategies regarding their effects on patient mortality, long-term outcomes, and clinician preferences; however, there is currently no clear evidence indicating which strategy is superior. Clinicians' preferences regarding various oxygenation targets may impact the design of future studies. Finally, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is recognized as an effective supportive treatment for various critical conditions and has significant application value in acute severe traumatic brain injury, cerebral resuscitation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Currently, researchers are continually exploring the latest oxygen therapies in the intensive care unit. Several randomized controlled clinical trials investigating automated oxygen control, novel high-flow nasal oxygen therapy, and combined oxygen therapy are underway. The results of these trials should be closely observed. Overall, this article provides a systematic review and valuable reference for the scientific and rational application of oxygen therapy in the intensive care unit. Future research should focus on verifying the optimal parameters of conservative oxygen therapy, assessing oxygen needs in different patient populations, evaluating the long-term effects of oxygen treatment, and developing novel oxygen therapy technologies and devices.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Intensive Care Units
*Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/methods
COVID-19/therapy
Respiration, Artificial
Oxygen
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
Mobile Phone Network Data in the COVID-19 era: A systematic review of applications, socioeconomic factors affecting compliance to non-pharmaceutical interventions, privacy implications, and post-pandemic economic recovery strategies.
PloS one, 20(4):e0322520.
BACKGROUND: The use of traditional mobility datasets, such as travel surveys and census data, has significantly impacted various disciplines, including transportation, urban sensing, criminology, and healthcare. However, because these datasets represent only discrete instances of measurement, they miss continuous temporal shifts in human activities, failing to record the majority of human mobility patterns in real-time. Bolstered by the rapid expansion of telecommunication networks and the ubiquitous use of smartphones, mobile phone network data (MPND) played a pivotal role in fighting and controlling the spread of COVID-19.
METHODS: We conduct an extensive review of the state-of-the-art and recent advancements in the application of MPND for analyzing the early and post-stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Additionally, we evaluate and assess the included studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Furthermore, we apply bibliometric analysis to visualize publication structures, co-authorship networks, and keyword co-occurrence networks.
RESULTS: After the full-text screening process against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, our systematic literature review identified 55 studies that utilized MPND in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: 46 (83.6%) were quantitative, and 9 (16.4%) were qualitative. These quantitative studies can be classified into five main groups: monitoring and tracking of human mobility patterns (n = 11), investigating the correlation between mobility patterns and the spread of COVID-19 (n = 7), analyzing the recovery of economic activities and travel patterns (n = 5), assessing factors associated with NPI compliance (n = 5), and investigating the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) measures on human behaviors, urban dynamics, and economic activity (n = 18). In addition, our findings indicate that NPI measures had a significant impact on reducing human movement and dynamics. However, demographics, political party affiliation, socioeconomic inequality, and racial inequality had a significant impact on population adherence to NPI measures, which could increase disease spread and delay social and economic recovery.
CONCLUSION: The usage of MPND for monitoring and tracking human activities and mobility patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic raises privacy implications and ethical concerns. Thus, striking a balance between meeting the ethical requirements and maintaining privacy risks should be further discovered and investigated in the future.
Additional Links: PMID-40299886
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40299886,
year = {2025},
author = {Okmi, M and Ang, TF and Mohd Zaki, MF and Ku, CS and Phan, KY and Wahyudi, I and Por, LY},
title = {Mobile Phone Network Data in the COVID-19 era: A systematic review of applications, socioeconomic factors affecting compliance to non-pharmaceutical interventions, privacy implications, and post-pandemic economic recovery strategies.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {e0322520},
pmid = {40299886},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/economics ; *Cell Phone/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; Privacy ; Socioeconomic Factors ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Smartphone ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of traditional mobility datasets, such as travel surveys and census data, has significantly impacted various disciplines, including transportation, urban sensing, criminology, and healthcare. However, because these datasets represent only discrete instances of measurement, they miss continuous temporal shifts in human activities, failing to record the majority of human mobility patterns in real-time. Bolstered by the rapid expansion of telecommunication networks and the ubiquitous use of smartphones, mobile phone network data (MPND) played a pivotal role in fighting and controlling the spread of COVID-19.
METHODS: We conduct an extensive review of the state-of-the-art and recent advancements in the application of MPND for analyzing the early and post-stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Additionally, we evaluate and assess the included studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Furthermore, we apply bibliometric analysis to visualize publication structures, co-authorship networks, and keyword co-occurrence networks.
RESULTS: After the full-text screening process against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, our systematic literature review identified 55 studies that utilized MPND in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: 46 (83.6%) were quantitative, and 9 (16.4%) were qualitative. These quantitative studies can be classified into five main groups: monitoring and tracking of human mobility patterns (n = 11), investigating the correlation between mobility patterns and the spread of COVID-19 (n = 7), analyzing the recovery of economic activities and travel patterns (n = 5), assessing factors associated with NPI compliance (n = 5), and investigating the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) measures on human behaviors, urban dynamics, and economic activity (n = 18). In addition, our findings indicate that NPI measures had a significant impact on reducing human movement and dynamics. However, demographics, political party affiliation, socioeconomic inequality, and racial inequality had a significant impact on population adherence to NPI measures, which could increase disease spread and delay social and economic recovery.
CONCLUSION: The usage of MPND for monitoring and tracking human activities and mobility patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic raises privacy implications and ethical concerns. Thus, striking a balance between meeting the ethical requirements and maintaining privacy risks should be further discovered and investigated in the future.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/economics
*Cell Phone/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics
Privacy
Socioeconomic Factors
SARS-CoV-2
Smartphone
RevDate: 2025-05-01
The Impact of Vitamin D in the Prevention of Influenza, COVID-19, and Dengue: A Review.
Biomedicines, 13(4):.
Since its discovery, vitamin D (VD) has been known for its implications in maintaining bone homeostasis. However, in recent years it has been discovered that the vitamin D receptor is expressed on different cells of the immune system and that these cells can locally produce the active form of this molecule, calcitriol, strongly suggesting that this vitamin might play a key role in both branches of the immune system, innate and adaptive. Recent evidence has demonstrated that VD participates in the different protective phases of the immune system against invading microorganisms, including in the activation and production of antimicrobial peptides, in the inactivation of replication of infectious agents, in the prevention of the exposure of cellular receptors to microbial adhesion, and, more importantly, in the modulation of the inflammatory response. In recent years, the world has witnessed major outbreaks of an ancient infectious disease, dengue fever; the emergence of a pandemic caused by an unknown virus, SARS-CoV-2; and the resurgence of a common respiratory infection, influenza. Despite belonging to different viral families, the etiological agents of these infections present a common trait: their capacity to cause complications not only through their cytopathic effect on target tissues but also through the excessive inflammatory response produced by the human host against an infection. This review outlines the current understanding of the role that vitamin D plays in the prevention of the aforementioned diseases and in the development of their complications through its active participation as a major modulator of the immune response.
Additional Links: PMID-40299497
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40299497,
year = {2025},
author = {Galindo-Méndez, M and Galindo-Ruiz, M and Concheso-Venegas, MF and Mendoza-Molina, SU and Orozco-Cruz, D and Weintraub-Benzion, E},
title = {The Impact of Vitamin D in the Prevention of Influenza, COVID-19, and Dengue: A Review.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40299497},
issn = {2227-9059},
abstract = {Since its discovery, vitamin D (VD) has been known for its implications in maintaining bone homeostasis. However, in recent years it has been discovered that the vitamin D receptor is expressed on different cells of the immune system and that these cells can locally produce the active form of this molecule, calcitriol, strongly suggesting that this vitamin might play a key role in both branches of the immune system, innate and adaptive. Recent evidence has demonstrated that VD participates in the different protective phases of the immune system against invading microorganisms, including in the activation and production of antimicrobial peptides, in the inactivation of replication of infectious agents, in the prevention of the exposure of cellular receptors to microbial adhesion, and, more importantly, in the modulation of the inflammatory response. In recent years, the world has witnessed major outbreaks of an ancient infectious disease, dengue fever; the emergence of a pandemic caused by an unknown virus, SARS-CoV-2; and the resurgence of a common respiratory infection, influenza. Despite belonging to different viral families, the etiological agents of these infections present a common trait: their capacity to cause complications not only through their cytopathic effect on target tissues but also through the excessive inflammatory response produced by the human host against an infection. This review outlines the current understanding of the role that vitamin D plays in the prevention of the aforementioned diseases and in the development of their complications through its active participation as a major modulator of the immune response.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-29
Prone positioning during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Intensive care medicine [Epub ahead of print].
PURPOSE: The evidence supporting the benefit on clinical outcomes of prone positioning during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure remains inconclusive. We aimed to assess the association of prone positioning, compared to no prone positioning, with 28-day mortality and other clinical outcomes in different patient subgroups.
METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using a random-effects model was conducted. An electronic database search up to September 1st, 2024 was performed (PROSPERO CRD42024517602). The RoB 2 and ROBINS-I tools were used for risk of bias assessments.
RESULTS: We analyzed two RCTs and 20 non-RCTs (3,465 patients). Compared to no prone positioning, the use of prone positioning was associated with lower 28-day (odds ratio [OR] 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42-0.98, p = 0.040, I[2] = 66%, low certainty of evidence [CoE]) and hospital mortality (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.54-0.83, p < 0.001, I[2] = 39%, low CoE), despite fewer 28-day ventilator-free days and longer ECMO duration. Younger age (p = 0.005), a higher sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (p = 0.022), non-Covid-19 etiology (p = 0.003), and lower rates of prone positioning before cannulation (p = 0.049) were associated with a greater benefit from prone positioning.
CONCLUSION: In this analysis, among patients supported with V-V ECMO for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, we observed improved 28-day and hospital mortality in those who received prone positioning, compared to those who did not. However, these findings do not imply causation. Further research is needed to clarify the role of prone positioning in this population.
Additional Links: PMID-40298974
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40298974,
year = {2025},
author = {Pettenuzzo, T and Balzani, E and Sella, N and Giani, M and Bassi, M and Fincati, V and Cescon, R and Pacchiarini, G and Pandolfo, G and Ceccato, R and Grønlykke, L and Staudacher, DL and Nesseler, N and Raasveld, SJ and Carron, M and Pistollato, E and Mormando, G and Zarantonello, F and De Cassai, A and Boscolo, A and Rezoagli, E and Foti, G and Navalesi, P},
title = {Prone positioning during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Intensive care medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40298974},
issn = {1432-1238},
abstract = {PURPOSE: The evidence supporting the benefit on clinical outcomes of prone positioning during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure remains inconclusive. We aimed to assess the association of prone positioning, compared to no prone positioning, with 28-day mortality and other clinical outcomes in different patient subgroups.
METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using a random-effects model was conducted. An electronic database search up to September 1st, 2024 was performed (PROSPERO CRD42024517602). The RoB 2 and ROBINS-I tools were used for risk of bias assessments.
RESULTS: We analyzed two RCTs and 20 non-RCTs (3,465 patients). Compared to no prone positioning, the use of prone positioning was associated with lower 28-day (odds ratio [OR] 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42-0.98, p = 0.040, I[2] = 66%, low certainty of evidence [CoE]) and hospital mortality (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.54-0.83, p < 0.001, I[2] = 39%, low CoE), despite fewer 28-day ventilator-free days and longer ECMO duration. Younger age (p = 0.005), a higher sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (p = 0.022), non-Covid-19 etiology (p = 0.003), and lower rates of prone positioning before cannulation (p = 0.049) were associated with a greater benefit from prone positioning.
CONCLUSION: In this analysis, among patients supported with V-V ECMO for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, we observed improved 28-day and hospital mortality in those who received prone positioning, compared to those who did not. However, these findings do not imply causation. Further research is needed to clarify the role of prone positioning in this population.},
}
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
Leading a hospital in the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review.
Ciencia & saude coletiva, 30(4):e14682023.
The objective of this review was to investigate the experiences lived by leaders during the pandemic period and their potential contributions. It is an integrative review based on the methodology proposed by Whittemore and Knafl (2005). The search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, LILACS, SciELO, and CINAHL, resulting in the retrieval of 1,538 articles. In the analysis of the included articles, the difficulties faced by identified leaderships were: fear, stress, burnout syndrome, insecurity, prejudice, anger, communication problems, external challenges related to lockdown, school and daycare closures, Personal Protective Equipment, budget and funding, separation of family members from the hospital, overload, and difficulties in leading the team and leading individually. In cases where the leader managed to deal with the difficulties and shifted their focus to people-focused leadership, it was possible to confront one of the greatest health crises in history. Leadership produced positive outcomes such as streamlining, a sense of professional appreciation, improvement in continuous education, strengthening of team spirit, knowledge sharing, and development of health services.
Additional Links: PMID-40298723
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@article {pmid40298723,
year = {2025},
author = {Carbonera, JB and Silva, SMD and Cunha, CJCA},
title = {Leading a hospital in the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review.},
journal = {Ciencia & saude coletiva},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {e14682023},
doi = {10.1590/1413-81232025304.14682023},
pmid = {40298723},
issn = {1678-4561},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Leadership ; Pandemics ; *Hospital Administration ; },
abstract = {The objective of this review was to investigate the experiences lived by leaders during the pandemic period and their potential contributions. It is an integrative review based on the methodology proposed by Whittemore and Knafl (2005). The search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, LILACS, SciELO, and CINAHL, resulting in the retrieval of 1,538 articles. In the analysis of the included articles, the difficulties faced by identified leaderships were: fear, stress, burnout syndrome, insecurity, prejudice, anger, communication problems, external challenges related to lockdown, school and daycare closures, Personal Protective Equipment, budget and funding, separation of family members from the hospital, overload, and difficulties in leading the team and leading individually. In cases where the leader managed to deal with the difficulties and shifted their focus to people-focused leadership, it was possible to confront one of the greatest health crises in history. Leadership produced positive outcomes such as streamlining, a sense of professional appreciation, improvement in continuous education, strengthening of team spirit, knowledge sharing, and development of health services.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Leadership
Pandemics
*Hospital Administration
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
A systematic review assessing the reliability of studies focusing on urological content on YouTube.
Minerva urology and nephrology, 77(2):192-201.
INTRODUCTION: In recent years, several publications have focused on analyzing the quality of medical content on YouTube. The current systematic review aimed to summarize and analyze the available studies examining YouTube video content in the urological field.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: This is a systematic review including studies examining urological content uploaded on the YouTube platform published before November 2023. The following keywords were combined to capture relevant publications with a title/abstract search: ("Urology" OR "Andrology") AND ("YouTube" OR "Social media").
EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: According to the inclusion criteria, 84 studies were included. Of all, 74 (88%) studies were published after the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. A total of 52 (62%) studies used the DISCERN score, 29 (35%) the PEMAT A/V score, 30 (36%) the GQS, 23 (27%) the Misinformation score, 14 (17%) the Likert scale, and 13 (15%) the JAMA score. According to the conclusion, 62 (74%) studies reported poor quality results. Among all, only 10 (12%) studies respected our criteria of best quality methodology, defined as: 1) description of the research time frame; 2) use of incognito status; 3) the description of the inter-rater variability between reviewers; 4) use of at least one quality assessment tool.
CONCLUSIONS: The systematic review highlights significant variability in results and methodologies across studies on the quality analysis of urological content on YouTube. The official urological community should establish guidelines for authors, aiming to enhance the reliability and importance of such publications as valuable resources for daily clinical practice.
Additional Links: PMID-40298344
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40298344,
year = {2025},
author = {Collà Ruvolo, C and Morra, S and Di Bello, F and Cilio, S and Fraia, A and Polverino, F and Creta, M and Longo, N and Imbimbo, C and Checcucci, E and Puliatti, S and Dell'oglio, P and Califano, G},
title = {A systematic review assessing the reliability of studies focusing on urological content on YouTube.},
journal = {Minerva urology and nephrology},
volume = {77},
number = {2},
pages = {192-201},
doi = {10.23736/S2724-6051.24.05994-9},
pmid = {40298344},
issn = {2724-6442},
mesh = {*Social Media/standards ; Humans ; *Urology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Video Recording ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In recent years, several publications have focused on analyzing the quality of medical content on YouTube. The current systematic review aimed to summarize and analyze the available studies examining YouTube video content in the urological field.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: This is a systematic review including studies examining urological content uploaded on the YouTube platform published before November 2023. The following keywords were combined to capture relevant publications with a title/abstract search: ("Urology" OR "Andrology") AND ("YouTube" OR "Social media").
EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: According to the inclusion criteria, 84 studies were included. Of all, 74 (88%) studies were published after the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. A total of 52 (62%) studies used the DISCERN score, 29 (35%) the PEMAT A/V score, 30 (36%) the GQS, 23 (27%) the Misinformation score, 14 (17%) the Likert scale, and 13 (15%) the JAMA score. According to the conclusion, 62 (74%) studies reported poor quality results. Among all, only 10 (12%) studies respected our criteria of best quality methodology, defined as: 1) description of the research time frame; 2) use of incognito status; 3) the description of the inter-rater variability between reviewers; 4) use of at least one quality assessment tool.
CONCLUSIONS: The systematic review highlights significant variability in results and methodologies across studies on the quality analysis of urological content on YouTube. The official urological community should establish guidelines for authors, aiming to enhance the reliability and importance of such publications as valuable resources for daily clinical practice.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Social Media/standards
Humans
*Urology
COVID-19/epidemiology
Reproducibility of Results
*Video Recording
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
Current Evidence of Maternal Infection With Chlamydia trachomatis and Preeclampsia Risk.
American journal of reproductive immunology (New York, N.Y. : 1989), 93(5):e70080.
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. Ascending C. trachomatis can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), potentially leading to subsequent infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. There is growing evidence implicating infections (e.g., COVID-19, cytomegalovirus) in preeclampsia etiology, a maternal hypertensive disorder and leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. However, few studies have investigated the impact of STIs on preeclampsia risk. In this review, we provide an overview of the potential association between C. trachomatis and preeclampsia and identify future research needs through a critical evaluation of epidemiologic, in vitro, and in vivo studies. Unfortunately, current methodological limitations such as lower-quality study designs, selection bias, confounding bias, and variations in chlamydia diagnostic methods inhibit our understanding of the impact of C. trachomatis on preeclampsia. In addition, bench-side approaches such as animal models and in vitro studies have not elucidated the mechanisms linking C. trachomatis to preeclampsia. Understanding the biological pathways that could be disrupted by chlamydia is important as it may ultimately guide the development and use of novel therapeutics to augment standard antibiotic therapy to reduce pathology.
Additional Links: PMID-40298141
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40298141,
year = {2025},
author = {Taylor, BD and Haggerty, CL and Amabebe, E and Richardson, LS},
title = {Current Evidence of Maternal Infection With Chlamydia trachomatis and Preeclampsia Risk.},
journal = {American journal of reproductive immunology (New York, N.Y. : 1989)},
volume = {93},
number = {5},
pages = {e70080},
doi = {10.1111/aji.70080},
pmid = {40298141},
issn = {1600-0897},
support = {1R01AI143653//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; 1R01AI141501//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Pre-Eclampsia/epidemiology ; *Chlamydia trachomatis/physiology ; *Chlamydia Infections/epidemiology/complications/immunology ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology ; Animals ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. Ascending C. trachomatis can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), potentially leading to subsequent infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. There is growing evidence implicating infections (e.g., COVID-19, cytomegalovirus) in preeclampsia etiology, a maternal hypertensive disorder and leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. However, few studies have investigated the impact of STIs on preeclampsia risk. In this review, we provide an overview of the potential association between C. trachomatis and preeclampsia and identify future research needs through a critical evaluation of epidemiologic, in vitro, and in vivo studies. Unfortunately, current methodological limitations such as lower-quality study designs, selection bias, confounding bias, and variations in chlamydia diagnostic methods inhibit our understanding of the impact of C. trachomatis on preeclampsia. In addition, bench-side approaches such as animal models and in vitro studies have not elucidated the mechanisms linking C. trachomatis to preeclampsia. Understanding the biological pathways that could be disrupted by chlamydia is important as it may ultimately guide the development and use of novel therapeutics to augment standard antibiotic therapy to reduce pathology.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*Pre-Eclampsia/epidemiology
*Chlamydia trachomatis/physiology
*Chlamydia Infections/epidemiology/complications/immunology
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology
Animals
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-04-30
Exploring TMPRSS2 Drug Target to Combat Influenza and Coronavirus Infection.
Scientifica, 2025:3687892.
Respiratory viral infections, including influenza and coronaviruses, present significant health risks worldwide. The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlights the urgent need for novel and effective antiviral agents. The host cell protease, transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), facilitates viral pathogenesis by playing a critical role in viral invasion and disease progression. This protease is coexpressed with the viral receptors of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for SARS-CoV-2 in the human respiratory tract and plays a significant role in activating viral proteins and spreading. TMPRSS2 activates the coronavirus spike (S) protein and permits membrane fusion and viral entry by cleaving the virus surface glycoproteins. It also activates the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, an enzyme necessary for the spread of influenza virus. TMPRSS2 inhibitors can reduce viral propagation and morbidity by blocking viral entry into respiratory cells and reducing viral spread, inflammation, and disease severity. This review examines the role of TMPRSS2 in viral replication and pathogenicity. It also offers potential avenues to develop targeted antivirals to inhibit TMPRSS2 function, suggesting a possible focus on targeted antiviral development. Ultimately, the review seeks to contribute to improving public health outcomes related to these viral infections.
Additional Links: PMID-40297833
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40297833,
year = {2025},
author = {Baby, K and Vithalkar, MP and Dastidar, SG and Mukhopadhyay, C and Hamdy, R and Soliman, SSM and Nayak, Y},
title = {Exploring TMPRSS2 Drug Target to Combat Influenza and Coronavirus Infection.},
journal = {Scientifica},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {3687892},
pmid = {40297833},
issn = {2090-908X},
abstract = {Respiratory viral infections, including influenza and coronaviruses, present significant health risks worldwide. The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlights the urgent need for novel and effective antiviral agents. The host cell protease, transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), facilitates viral pathogenesis by playing a critical role in viral invasion and disease progression. This protease is coexpressed with the viral receptors of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for SARS-CoV-2 in the human respiratory tract and plays a significant role in activating viral proteins and spreading. TMPRSS2 activates the coronavirus spike (S) protein and permits membrane fusion and viral entry by cleaving the virus surface glycoproteins. It also activates the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, an enzyme necessary for the spread of influenza virus. TMPRSS2 inhibitors can reduce viral propagation and morbidity by blocking viral entry into respiratory cells and reducing viral spread, inflammation, and disease severity. This review examines the role of TMPRSS2 in viral replication and pathogenicity. It also offers potential avenues to develop targeted antivirals to inhibit TMPRSS2 function, suggesting a possible focus on targeted antiviral development. Ultimately, the review seeks to contribute to improving public health outcomes related to these viral infections.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
Microbial Contamination of Door Handles: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Public and Healthcare Settings.
Environmental health insights, 19:11786302251328550.
BACKGROUND: The public health risk of microbial contamination of fomites is evident from the numerous fomite-associated outbreaks that have occurred in several countries. Despite the high-touch nature of door handles across various settings, no comprehensive synthesis of contamination rates and microbial profiles has been performed.
AIM: The aim of this work was to assess the prevalence and types of microbial contamination on door handles in public and healthcare settings.
METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published up to July 2024. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated via a random-effects model, and subgroup analyses were performed to assess differences on the basis of pathogen type, handle location, and setting.
RESULTS: A total of 27 studies met the eligibility criteria. The overall estimation of microbial contamination of door handles revealed a prevalence of 9.96% (95% CI: 5.87‒14.11). Compared with viral contamination which was observed to be 17.73% (95% CI: 9.24‒27.81), bacterial contamination was less common at 6.20% (95% CI: 2.90‒10.42). The most predominant bacterial agent was Bacillus spp. (55.74%), followed by Acinetobacter baumannii (25.00%); the most prevalent virus was rotavirus (62.50%). The rate of contamination was higher for toilet door handles (23.04%) than for other public and healthcare handles (7.75%). Hospitals presented slightly higher contamination rates (10.82%) than did public settings (8.97%).
CONCLUSION: This systematic review highlights the widespread microbial contamination of door handles, particularly in public and healthcare environments. While bacterial contamination is predominant, the finding of viruses such as rotavirus, norovirus and even SARS-CoV-2 highlights the stringency of cleaning that has to be applied. These findings emphasise the need for targeted hygiene interventions to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission via door handles, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Additional Links: PMID-40297655
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40297655,
year = {2025},
author = {Appiah, PO and Odoom, A and Tetteh-Quarcoo, PB and Kotey, FCN and Donkor, ES},
title = {Microbial Contamination of Door Handles: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Public and Healthcare Settings.},
journal = {Environmental health insights},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {11786302251328550},
pmid = {40297655},
issn = {1178-6302},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The public health risk of microbial contamination of fomites is evident from the numerous fomite-associated outbreaks that have occurred in several countries. Despite the high-touch nature of door handles across various settings, no comprehensive synthesis of contamination rates and microbial profiles has been performed.
AIM: The aim of this work was to assess the prevalence and types of microbial contamination on door handles in public and healthcare settings.
METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published up to July 2024. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated via a random-effects model, and subgroup analyses were performed to assess differences on the basis of pathogen type, handle location, and setting.
RESULTS: A total of 27 studies met the eligibility criteria. The overall estimation of microbial contamination of door handles revealed a prevalence of 9.96% (95% CI: 5.87‒14.11). Compared with viral contamination which was observed to be 17.73% (95% CI: 9.24‒27.81), bacterial contamination was less common at 6.20% (95% CI: 2.90‒10.42). The most predominant bacterial agent was Bacillus spp. (55.74%), followed by Acinetobacter baumannii (25.00%); the most prevalent virus was rotavirus (62.50%). The rate of contamination was higher for toilet door handles (23.04%) than for other public and healthcare handles (7.75%). Hospitals presented slightly higher contamination rates (10.82%) than did public settings (8.97%).
CONCLUSION: This systematic review highlights the widespread microbial contamination of door handles, particularly in public and healthcare environments. While bacterial contamination is predominant, the finding of viruses such as rotavirus, norovirus and even SARS-CoV-2 highlights the stringency of cleaning that has to be applied. These findings emphasise the need for targeted hygiene interventions to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission via door handles, particularly in high-traffic areas.},
}
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-05-01
Monoclonal Antibodies for Pediatric Viral Disease Prevention and Treatment.
Pediatrics, 155(5):.
Medical advancements over the last century have improved our ability to treat pediatric infectious diseases, significantly reducing associated morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although vaccines have been pivotal in this progress, many viral pathogens still do not currently have effective vaccines. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid responses to emerging viral pathogens and introduced new tools to combat them. This review addresses human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as a strategy for treating and preventing viral infections in pediatric populations. We discuss previously used and currently available mAbs and advancements in mAb discovery. We address the future of mAb therapy by describing novel approaches in drug production and delivery platforms in addition to alternative antibody classes. Finally, we review the challenges and limitations of mAb therapy development for newborns and children.
Additional Links: PMID-40174915
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40174915,
year = {2025},
author = {Bahadir, Z and Narayan, P and Wolters, R and Permar, SR and Fouda, G and Hessell, AJ and Haigwood, NL},
title = {Monoclonal Antibodies for Pediatric Viral Disease Prevention and Treatment.},
journal = {Pediatrics},
volume = {155},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1542/peds.2024-068690},
pmid = {40174915},
issn = {1098-4275},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Child ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control/drug therapy/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Infant, Newborn ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Medical advancements over the last century have improved our ability to treat pediatric infectious diseases, significantly reducing associated morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although vaccines have been pivotal in this progress, many viral pathogens still do not currently have effective vaccines. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid responses to emerging viral pathogens and introduced new tools to combat them. This review addresses human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as a strategy for treating and preventing viral infections in pediatric populations. We discuss previously used and currently available mAbs and advancements in mAb discovery. We address the future of mAb therapy by describing novel approaches in drug production and delivery platforms in addition to alternative antibody classes. Finally, we review the challenges and limitations of mAb therapy development for newborns and children.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
Child
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control/drug therapy/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Infant, Newborn
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
RevDate: 2025-05-01
CmpDate: 2025-05-01
[Contact-restricting measures in care facilities in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and their impact on residents - a plea].
Gesundheitswesen (Bundesverband der Arzte des Offentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes (Germany)), 87(5):359-368.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of care homes for the elderly were at a particularly high risk of contracting the virus and dying from it. Strict protective measures were therefore taken, including bans on visits. However, the negative effects of these contact-restricting measures on the mental and physical health, quality of life, right to self-determination and ultimately the dignity of the residents soon became apparent and the question was raised as to whether isolation (confinement disease) was even more harmful to health than the disease itself. Statements on infection control measures in care facilities, studies with the views of those affected (residents, relatives, employees in care facilities) and interviews with residents of care facilities as well as reviews on adverse effects of the protective measures were researched. The search included both so-called "gray literature" and publications from PubMed. The residents suffered greatly from isolation and from the fact that decisions were made about them without consulting them. They complained about the loss of their autonomy and felt that their dignity was violated. The reviews showed that the residents generally experienced loneliness, anxiety, sadness and depression more frequently, and in some cases also physical deterioration. In future, care must be taken to achieve a good balance from a legal and health perspective between protection against infection and protection of the mental and physical health, well-being and quality of life of residents, respect for autonomy, the right to self-determination and the dignity of residents. This requires a broad social discussion in which not only experts from the fields of infectiology but also from the fields of geriatrics, nursing, public health, ethics and law, but in particular also those affected themselves or their representatives, their relatives, are heard and their arguments taken into account.
Additional Links: PMID-40015326
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40015326,
year = {2025},
author = {Heudorf, U and Stalla, K},
title = {[Contact-restricting measures in care facilities in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and their impact on residents - a plea].},
journal = {Gesundheitswesen (Bundesverband der Arzte des Offentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes (Germany))},
volume = {87},
number = {5},
pages = {359-368},
doi = {10.1055/a-2476-9220},
pmid = {40015326},
issn = {1439-4421},
mesh = {Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/psychology/transmission ; Germany/epidemiology ; *Homes for the Aged/statistics & numerical data ; *Nursing Homes/statistics & numerical data ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Patient Isolation/psychology ; Quality of Life/psychology ; },
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of care homes for the elderly were at a particularly high risk of contracting the virus and dying from it. Strict protective measures were therefore taken, including bans on visits. However, the negative effects of these contact-restricting measures on the mental and physical health, quality of life, right to self-determination and ultimately the dignity of the residents soon became apparent and the question was raised as to whether isolation (confinement disease) was even more harmful to health than the disease itself. Statements on infection control measures in care facilities, studies with the views of those affected (residents, relatives, employees in care facilities) and interviews with residents of care facilities as well as reviews on adverse effects of the protective measures were researched. The search included both so-called "gray literature" and publications from PubMed. The residents suffered greatly from isolation and from the fact that decisions were made about them without consulting them. They complained about the loss of their autonomy and felt that their dignity was violated. The reviews showed that the residents generally experienced loneliness, anxiety, sadness and depression more frequently, and in some cases also physical deterioration. In future, care must be taken to achieve a good balance from a legal and health perspective between protection against infection and protection of the mental and physical health, well-being and quality of life of residents, respect for autonomy, the right to self-determination and the dignity of residents. This requires a broad social discussion in which not only experts from the fields of infectiology but also from the fields of geriatrics, nursing, public health, ethics and law, but in particular also those affected themselves or their representatives, their relatives, are heard and their arguments taken into account.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Female
Humans
Male
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/psychology/transmission
Germany/epidemiology
*Homes for the Aged/statistics & numerical data
*Nursing Homes/statistics & numerical data
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Patient Isolation/psychology
Quality of Life/psychology
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
Early combined therapy for COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients: a promising approach against viral persistence and drug resistance.
BMC infectious diseases, 25(1):616.
Immunocompromised (IC) patients face significant challenges in managing COVID-19 due to their heightened susceptibility to severe illness, persistent infections, and the potential development of drug resistance. Studies indicate that IC patients, particularly those with hematologic malignancies (HM), hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCTR), or solid organ transplants (SOTR), experience higher mortality rates and worse outcomes compared to the general population, even post-vaccination. The persistence of the virus in these patients, combined with its rapid mutation, further complicates treatment. Recent evidence supports the use of combined neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) as a more effective approach to viral clearance, reducing mortality, and preventing relapses. However, the rise of resistant variants, especially to mAbs, and concerns about the safety of prolonged or intensive therapies pose ongoing challenges. Monotherapies often fail short to address these issues, highlighting the need for early combined therapy (ECT) with mAbs and DAAs. ECT has shown promise in managing COVID-19 in IC individuals by targeting multiple stages of the viral lifecycle, reducing viral load, and clearing infections at earlier stages, which helps mitigate the risks of severe disease and drug resistance. Continued research is essential to refine these treatment protocols, especially as the virus evolves. Although further studies are needed, current findings suggest that ECT may become the standard of care for managing COVID-19 in severely IC patients, offering better clinical outcomes and hindering viral persistence.
Additional Links: PMID-40295963
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40295963,
year = {2025},
author = {Rotundo, S and Serapide, F and Berardelli, L and Gullì, SP and Mongiardi, S and Tassone, MT and Trecarichi, EM and Russo, A},
title = {Early combined therapy for COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients: a promising approach against viral persistence and drug resistance.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {616},
pmid = {40295963},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *COVID-19/therapy/immunology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/immunology ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Drug Resistance, Viral ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; },
abstract = {Immunocompromised (IC) patients face significant challenges in managing COVID-19 due to their heightened susceptibility to severe illness, persistent infections, and the potential development of drug resistance. Studies indicate that IC patients, particularly those with hematologic malignancies (HM), hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCTR), or solid organ transplants (SOTR), experience higher mortality rates and worse outcomes compared to the general population, even post-vaccination. The persistence of the virus in these patients, combined with its rapid mutation, further complicates treatment. Recent evidence supports the use of combined neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) as a more effective approach to viral clearance, reducing mortality, and preventing relapses. However, the rise of resistant variants, especially to mAbs, and concerns about the safety of prolonged or intensive therapies pose ongoing challenges. Monotherapies often fail short to address these issues, highlighting the need for early combined therapy (ECT) with mAbs and DAAs. ECT has shown promise in managing COVID-19 in IC individuals by targeting multiple stages of the viral lifecycle, reducing viral load, and clearing infections at earlier stages, which helps mitigate the risks of severe disease and drug resistance. Continued research is essential to refine these treatment protocols, especially as the virus evolves. Although further studies are needed, current findings suggest that ECT may become the standard of care for managing COVID-19 in severely IC patients, offering better clinical outcomes and hindering viral persistence.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Immunocompromised Host
*COVID-19/therapy/immunology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/immunology
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Drug Resistance, Viral
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use
Drug Therapy, Combination
RevDate: 2025-04-30
A portrait of the infected cell: how SARS-CoV-2 infection reshapes cellular processes and pathways.
Npj viruses, 2(1):66.
Positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA) viruses exert a profound influence on cellular organelles and metabolic pathway by usurping host processes to promote their replication. In this review, we present a portrait of selected cellular pathways perturbed in SARS-CoV-2 infection: the effect of viral translation, replication and assembly on the morphology and function of the ER, the remodelling of degradative pathways with a focus on the autophagic processes, and the alterations affecting cellular membranes and lipid metabolism. For each of these cellular processes, we highlight the specific viral and host factors involved and their interplay in this microscopic tug-of-war between pro-viral and anti-viral effects that ultimately tip the scale toward the propagation or the resolution of the infection.
Additional Links: PMID-40295886
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40295886,
year = {2024},
author = {Marano, V and Vlachová, Š and Tiano, SML and Cortese, M},
title = {A portrait of the infected cell: how SARS-CoV-2 infection reshapes cellular processes and pathways.},
journal = {Npj viruses},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {66},
pmid = {40295886},
issn = {2948-1767},
support = {HT-ECF 763//Human Technopole/ ; },
abstract = {Positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA) viruses exert a profound influence on cellular organelles and metabolic pathway by usurping host processes to promote their replication. In this review, we present a portrait of selected cellular pathways perturbed in SARS-CoV-2 infection: the effect of viral translation, replication and assembly on the morphology and function of the ER, the remodelling of degradative pathways with a focus on the autophagic processes, and the alterations affecting cellular membranes and lipid metabolism. For each of these cellular processes, we highlight the specific viral and host factors involved and their interplay in this microscopic tug-of-war between pro-viral and anti-viral effects that ultimately tip the scale toward the propagation or the resolution of the infection.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
Effects of oxidative stress on viral infections: an overview.
Npj viruses, 3(1):27.
Viral infections can trigger increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and a reduced antioxidant response in the host, leading to redox stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and ultimately, cell and tissue damage, which contribute to disease development. A better understanding of how ROS contributes to viral pathogenesis is critical for the development of novel therapeutic interventions. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on ROS production and its effects across various viral infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2, influenza A virus, dengue virus, Zika virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus infections, to improve future therapeutic and preventive strategies for these infections.
Additional Links: PMID-40295852
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@article {pmid40295852,
year = {2025},
author = {Kayesh, MEH and Kohara, M and Tsukiyama-Kohara, K},
title = {Effects of oxidative stress on viral infections: an overview.},
journal = {Npj viruses},
volume = {3},
number = {1},
pages = {27},
pmid = {40295852},
issn = {2948-1767},
abstract = {Viral infections can trigger increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and a reduced antioxidant response in the host, leading to redox stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and ultimately, cell and tissue damage, which contribute to disease development. A better understanding of how ROS contributes to viral pathogenesis is critical for the development of novel therapeutic interventions. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on ROS production and its effects across various viral infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2, influenza A virus, dengue virus, Zika virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus infections, to improve future therapeutic and preventive strategies for these infections.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
Balancing stability and function: impact of the surface charge of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron spike protein.
Npj viruses, 3(1):23.
The ectodomain of the Omicron SARS-CoV-2 spike has an increased positive surface charge, favoring binding to the host cell surface, but may affect the stability of the ectodomain. Thermal stability studies identified two transitions associated with the flexibility of the receptor binding domain and the unfolding of the whole ectodomain, respectively. Despite destabilizing effects of some mutations, compensatory mutations maintain ECD stability and functional advantages thus supporting viral fitness.
Additional Links: PMID-40295844
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@article {pmid40295844,
year = {2025},
author = {Lauster, D and Haag, R and Ballauff, M and Herrmann, A},
title = {Balancing stability and function: impact of the surface charge of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron spike protein.},
journal = {Npj viruses},
volume = {3},
number = {1},
pages = {23},
pmid = {40295844},
issn = {2948-1767},
support = {431232613//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 431232613//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 434130070//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 431232613//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
abstract = {The ectodomain of the Omicron SARS-CoV-2 spike has an increased positive surface charge, favoring binding to the host cell surface, but may affect the stability of the ectodomain. Thermal stability studies identified two transitions associated with the flexibility of the receptor binding domain and the unfolding of the whole ectodomain, respectively. Despite destabilizing effects of some mutations, compensatory mutations maintain ECD stability and functional advantages thus supporting viral fitness.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
Antimicrobial resistance and vaccines in Enterobacteriaceae including extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
npj antimicrobials and resistance, 3(1):34.
Antimicrobial-resistant Enterobacteriaceae are increasingly a clinical challenge. In particular, extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae threaten public health. Vaccination presents a long-term strategy to reduce both drug-susceptible and resistant infections while maintaining current clinical therapies. The review aims to emphasize the need for vaccines targeting extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli and K. pneumoniae by providing an overview of disease burden, antimicrobial resistance, therapeutics, and vaccine development.
Additional Links: PMID-40295787
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@article {pmid40295787,
year = {2025},
author = {Cabrera, A and Mason, E and Mullins, LP and Sadarangani, M},
title = {Antimicrobial resistance and vaccines in Enterobacteriaceae including extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {npj antimicrobials and resistance},
volume = {3},
number = {1},
pages = {34},
pmid = {40295787},
issn = {2731-8745},
abstract = {Antimicrobial-resistant Enterobacteriaceae are increasingly a clinical challenge. In particular, extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae threaten public health. Vaccination presents a long-term strategy to reduce both drug-susceptible and resistant infections while maintaining current clinical therapies. The review aims to emphasize the need for vaccines targeting extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli and K. pneumoniae by providing an overview of disease burden, antimicrobial resistance, therapeutics, and vaccine development.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
Beyond COVID-19: the promise of next-generation coronavirus vaccines.
Npj viruses, 2(1):39.
Coronaviruses (CoVs) have caused three global outbreaks: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1 (SARS-CoV-1) in 2003, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in 2012, and SARS-CoV-2 in 2019, with significant mortality and morbidity. The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) raised serious concerns about the global preparedness for a pandemic. Furthermore, the changing antigenic landscape of SARS-CoV-2 led to new variants with increased transmissibility and immune evasion. Thus, the development of broad-spectrum vaccines against current and future emerging variants of CoVs will be an essential tool in pandemic preparedness. Distinct phylogenetic features within CoVs complicate and limit the process of generating a pan-CoV vaccine capable of targeting the entire Coronaviridae family. In this review, we aim to provide a detailed overview of the features of CoVs, their phylogeny, current vaccines against various CoVs, the efforts in developing broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccines, and the future.
Additional Links: PMID-40295763
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@article {pmid40295763,
year = {2024},
author = {Koolaparambil Mukesh, R and Yinda, CK and Munster, VJ and van Doremalen, N},
title = {Beyond COVID-19: the promise of next-generation coronavirus vaccines.},
journal = {Npj viruses},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {39},
pmid = {40295763},
issn = {2948-1767},
abstract = {Coronaviruses (CoVs) have caused three global outbreaks: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1 (SARS-CoV-1) in 2003, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in 2012, and SARS-CoV-2 in 2019, with significant mortality and morbidity. The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) raised serious concerns about the global preparedness for a pandemic. Furthermore, the changing antigenic landscape of SARS-CoV-2 led to new variants with increased transmissibility and immune evasion. Thus, the development of broad-spectrum vaccines against current and future emerging variants of CoVs will be an essential tool in pandemic preparedness. Distinct phylogenetic features within CoVs complicate and limit the process of generating a pan-CoV vaccine capable of targeting the entire Coronaviridae family. In this review, we aim to provide a detailed overview of the features of CoVs, their phylogeny, current vaccines against various CoVs, the efforts in developing broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccines, and the future.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
De novo AML spontaneously achieved PR after COVID-19 infection, and CR after reduced dose of azacytidine combined with venetoclax: A case report and literature review.
Medicine, 104(17):e42039.
RATIONALE: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection increases the mortality of patients with hematological malignancies. The optimal treatment for de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with severe pneumonia caused by COVID-19 is not clear.
PATIENT CONCERNS: A 59-year-old woman was admitted to our department with fever, cough dyspnea, and thrombocytopenia for 1 week.
DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed with AML associated with a TP53 mutation and complex chromosomal abnormalities by bone marrow examination. In addition, she had severe COVID-19 pneumonia when her AML was diagnosed.
INTERVENTIONS: We delayed leukemia therapy to adequately treat her severe COVID-19 pneumonia. In the therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia, the patient presented with high levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 6. Surprisingly, after being treated for severe COVID-19 pneumonia, she obtained partial remission in the absence of leukemia therapy. When the severe COVID-19 pneumonia was under control, the patient achieved complete remission after she received a reduced dose of azacytidine combined with venetoclax for only 1 cycle.
OUTCOMES: After a standard dose of azacytidine combined with venetoclax for 2 cycles, the patient achieved a deep molecular remission. The results of next-generation sequencing analysis indicated that the TP53 mutation turned negative.
LESSONS: This case suggests that azacytidine combined with venetoclax could be a safe and valid option compared with intensive chemotherapy in newly diagnosed AML patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Whether the increased cytokine levels could indicate that COVID-19 infection might have an anti-tumor effect on AML patients remains to be further observed.
Additional Links: PMID-40295300
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40295300,
year = {2025},
author = {Qi, Y and Li, JY and Wang, J and Mu, J and Deng, Q and Cui, R},
title = {De novo AML spontaneously achieved PR after COVID-19 infection, and CR after reduced dose of azacytidine combined with venetoclax: A case report and literature review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {17},
pages = {e42039},
pmid = {40295300},
issn = {1536-5964},
support = {TJWJ2022XK021//Tianjin Health Research Project/ ; Y-SY2021QN-0184//Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Beijing Xisike Clinical Oncology Research Foundation/ ; Y-NCJH202201-0027//Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Beijing Xisike Clinical Oncology Research Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy/complications ; *Sulfonamides/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Azacitidine/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Remission Induction ; Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection increases the mortality of patients with hematological malignancies. The optimal treatment for de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with severe pneumonia caused by COVID-19 is not clear.
PATIENT CONCERNS: A 59-year-old woman was admitted to our department with fever, cough dyspnea, and thrombocytopenia for 1 week.
DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed with AML associated with a TP53 mutation and complex chromosomal abnormalities by bone marrow examination. In addition, she had severe COVID-19 pneumonia when her AML was diagnosed.
INTERVENTIONS: We delayed leukemia therapy to adequately treat her severe COVID-19 pneumonia. In the therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia, the patient presented with high levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 6. Surprisingly, after being treated for severe COVID-19 pneumonia, she obtained partial remission in the absence of leukemia therapy. When the severe COVID-19 pneumonia was under control, the patient achieved complete remission after she received a reduced dose of azacytidine combined with venetoclax for only 1 cycle.
OUTCOMES: After a standard dose of azacytidine combined with venetoclax for 2 cycles, the patient achieved a deep molecular remission. The results of next-generation sequencing analysis indicated that the TP53 mutation turned negative.
LESSONS: This case suggests that azacytidine combined with venetoclax could be a safe and valid option compared with intensive chemotherapy in newly diagnosed AML patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Whether the increased cytokine levels could indicate that COVID-19 infection might have an anti-tumor effect on AML patients remains to be further observed.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Female
Middle Aged
*Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy/complications
*Sulfonamides/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/complications
*Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Azacitidine/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Remission Induction
Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/administration & dosage
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
Acute type A aortic dissection patients undergoing surgical repair during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Medicine, 104(17):e42249.
BACKGROUND: Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is a deadly form of acute aortic syndrome which necessitates emergency surgical repair. Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a significant impact on surgery globally. The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on ATAAD patients undergoing surgical repair remains undetermined.
METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing ATAAD patients undergoing aortic surgery before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic and literature review of published cases reporting COVID-19 patients undergoing surgical repair for ATAAD. PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP, WANFANG, and SinoMed databases were searched for relevant studies and case reports till January 21st, 2023, and the database search was updated on January 3rd, 2024. Meta-analysis was performed by utilizing RevMan. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated for dichotomous data, and weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CI for continuous data, respectively. All P-values were 2-sided and statistical significance was defined as P < .05.
RESULTS: Meta-analysis of 5 included studies comparing ATAAD patients undergoing aortic surgery before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that, the patients in Group During-Pandemic (DP) were older than those in Group Before-Pandemic (BP; P = .005), and the body mass index of the patients in Group DP was lower than that of the patients in Group BP (P = .002), more patients in Group DP were smokers (P = .02). Meta-analysis also showed that, either the composite incidence of mortality and morbidities or individual morbidity was comparable between 2 groups, except that more patients in Group DP developed pneumonia (P = .05). Literature reviews of 24 published cases reporting COVID-19 patients undergoing surgical repair for ATAAD demonstrated that, twenty (83.3%) patients recovered well after aortic surgery and were finally discharged from hospital. Unfortunately, 4 patients died postoperatively, 3 due to multiple organ failure and one due to respiratory failure (RF). Reported postoperative complications included hypoxia, endotracheal re-intubation, RF, renal failure, coagulopathy, fever, multi-organ failure and shock.
CONCLUSION: The hospitalized outcomes of ATAAD patients undergoing surgical repair before versus during the COVID-19 were mostly comparable. ATAAD patients with concomitant COVID-19 infection who underwent emergent surgical repair had a high risk of mortality and morbidities.
Additional Links: PMID-40295228
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40295228,
year = {2025},
author = {Yao, YT and Xie, CM and Wang, HB and Yu, SC and , },
title = {Acute type A aortic dissection patients undergoing surgical repair during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {17},
pages = {e42249},
pmid = {40295228},
issn = {1536-5964},
support = {2021-I2M-C&T-B-038//the Youth Teacher Training Program of Peking Union Medical College/ ; 2024RCTJ-QN002//Talent Trusteeship Program of Fuwai Yunnan Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Aortic Dissection/surgery/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Aortic Aneurysm/surgery ; Risk Factors ; Male ; Postoperative Complications/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is a deadly form of acute aortic syndrome which necessitates emergency surgical repair. Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a significant impact on surgery globally. The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on ATAAD patients undergoing surgical repair remains undetermined.
METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing ATAAD patients undergoing aortic surgery before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic and literature review of published cases reporting COVID-19 patients undergoing surgical repair for ATAAD. PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP, WANFANG, and SinoMed databases were searched for relevant studies and case reports till January 21st, 2023, and the database search was updated on January 3rd, 2024. Meta-analysis was performed by utilizing RevMan. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated for dichotomous data, and weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CI for continuous data, respectively. All P-values were 2-sided and statistical significance was defined as P < .05.
RESULTS: Meta-analysis of 5 included studies comparing ATAAD patients undergoing aortic surgery before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that, the patients in Group During-Pandemic (DP) were older than those in Group Before-Pandemic (BP; P = .005), and the body mass index of the patients in Group DP was lower than that of the patients in Group BP (P = .002), more patients in Group DP were smokers (P = .02). Meta-analysis also showed that, either the composite incidence of mortality and morbidities or individual morbidity was comparable between 2 groups, except that more patients in Group DP developed pneumonia (P = .05). Literature reviews of 24 published cases reporting COVID-19 patients undergoing surgical repair for ATAAD demonstrated that, twenty (83.3%) patients recovered well after aortic surgery and were finally discharged from hospital. Unfortunately, 4 patients died postoperatively, 3 due to multiple organ failure and one due to respiratory failure (RF). Reported postoperative complications included hypoxia, endotracheal re-intubation, RF, renal failure, coagulopathy, fever, multi-organ failure and shock.
CONCLUSION: The hospitalized outcomes of ATAAD patients undergoing surgical repair before versus during the COVID-19 were mostly comparable. ATAAD patients with concomitant COVID-19 infection who underwent emergent surgical repair had a high risk of mortality and morbidities.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Aortic Dissection/surgery/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Aortic Aneurysm/surgery
Risk Factors
Male
Postoperative Complications/epidemiology
Pandemics
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Sins of Omission: Model-Based Estimates of the Health Effects of Excluding Pregnant Participants From Randomized Controlled Trials.
Annals of internal medicine [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: More than 90 million women in the United States have given birth. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of medications almost always exclude pregnant participants.
OBJECTIVE: To quantify the health effects of excluding pregnant participants from RCTs.
DESIGN: Decision analytic framework applied to case studies of thalidomide, COVID-19 vaccines, and dolutegravir.
SETTING: Varied.
PARTICIPANTS: Pregnant people and their children.
MEASUREMENTS: The authors modeled the ex post facto health effects of RCTs, comparing projected health effects of medication uptake had an RCT been conducted versus historically observed outcomes. They also modeled the a priori health effects that could have been anticipated in trial planning. They converted health effect estimates to monetary value using standard benchmarks.
RESULTS: Across case studies, health benefits from conducting RCTs during pregnancy were projected to far exceed expected adverse effects (AEs) from RCTs. For example, had thalidomide been tested in a completed RCT with 200 treated participants, about 33 children would have experienced severe AEs, whereas knowledge from the RCT would have prevented 8000 thalidomide-related birth defects, 99.6% of all thalidomide-related birth defects from 1956 to 1962. Likewise, if RCTs for COVID-19 vaccines had included pregnant participants and if posttrial pregnant uptake were conservatively assumed to mirror that of age- and state-matched nonpregnant women, a projected 20% of COVID-19-related maternal deaths and stillbirths (8% of all maternal deaths and 1% of all stillbirths) in the United States would have been prevented from March to November 2021. Across case studies, the a priori value of RCT data would have exceeded the approximately $100 million cost of phase 1 to 3 RCTs.
LIMITATION: Parameter uncertainty.
CONCLUSION: Systematic inclusion in RCTs could benefit both pregnant people and their children by both speeding AE detection and increasing uptake of beneficial medications.
PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: None.
Additional Links: PMID-40294421
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40294421,
year = {2025},
author = {Bilinski, A and Emanuel, N and Ciaranello, A},
title = {Sins of Omission: Model-Based Estimates of the Health Effects of Excluding Pregnant Participants From Randomized Controlled Trials.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-24-00689},
pmid = {40294421},
issn = {1539-3704},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: More than 90 million women in the United States have given birth. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of medications almost always exclude pregnant participants.
OBJECTIVE: To quantify the health effects of excluding pregnant participants from RCTs.
DESIGN: Decision analytic framework applied to case studies of thalidomide, COVID-19 vaccines, and dolutegravir.
SETTING: Varied.
PARTICIPANTS: Pregnant people and their children.
MEASUREMENTS: The authors modeled the ex post facto health effects of RCTs, comparing projected health effects of medication uptake had an RCT been conducted versus historically observed outcomes. They also modeled the a priori health effects that could have been anticipated in trial planning. They converted health effect estimates to monetary value using standard benchmarks.
RESULTS: Across case studies, health benefits from conducting RCTs during pregnancy were projected to far exceed expected adverse effects (AEs) from RCTs. For example, had thalidomide been tested in a completed RCT with 200 treated participants, about 33 children would have experienced severe AEs, whereas knowledge from the RCT would have prevented 8000 thalidomide-related birth defects, 99.6% of all thalidomide-related birth defects from 1956 to 1962. Likewise, if RCTs for COVID-19 vaccines had included pregnant participants and if posttrial pregnant uptake were conservatively assumed to mirror that of age- and state-matched nonpregnant women, a projected 20% of COVID-19-related maternal deaths and stillbirths (8% of all maternal deaths and 1% of all stillbirths) in the United States would have been prevented from March to November 2021. Across case studies, the a priori value of RCT data would have exceeded the approximately $100 million cost of phase 1 to 3 RCTs.
LIMITATION: Parameter uncertainty.
CONCLUSION: Systematic inclusion in RCTs could benefit both pregnant people and their children by both speeding AE detection and increasing uptake of beneficial medications.
PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: None.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-28
Post-COVID-19 Guillain-Barré Syndrome with GM1 and GD1b Antibodies: A Case Study and Literature Review.
The American journal of case reports, 26:e947416 pii:947416.
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has led to the emergence of various neurological complications, including Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). GBS is an acute, immune-mediated disorder characterized by progressive weakness, sensory deficits, and autonomic dysfunction. Anti-ganglioside antibodies are often seen in GBS; however, they are rarely reported in the setting of COVID-19-related GBS. We present a case of post-COVID-19 GBS with positive GM1 and GD1b antibodies. CASE REPORT An 86-year-old man presented with progressive quadriparesis, sensory deficits, and hyporeflexia 4 weeks after COVID-19 infection. Brain and spine imaging were unremarkable. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed albuminocytological dissociation, consistent with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). Despite 2 courses of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), the patient showed minimal improvement in muscle strength. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) revealed severe sensorimotor polyneuropathy, with axonal and demyelinating features. Serum testing showed elevated GM1 and GD1b anti-ganglioside antibody titers. CONCLUSIONS Although numerous cases of COVID-19-related GBS have been reported, anti-ganglioside antibody positivity, particularly GM1 and GD1b, is uncommon. The underlying mechanism is presumed to be autoimmune, likely triggered by molecular mimicry. Our case contributes to the evolving understanding of GBS immunology in the context of COVID-19. Although this case report may not alter current GBS management, the co-occurrence of GM1 and GD1b antibodies in post-COVID-19 GBS underscores the need for continued vigilance, immunological profiling, and research into potential prognostic and therapeutic implications.
Additional Links: PMID-40293968
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40293968,
year = {2025},
author = {Thiriveedi, M and Sto Domingo, FG and Longley, S and Patel, S and Baddam, S and Chimakurthy, A},
title = {Post-COVID-19 Guillain-Barré Syndrome with GM1 and GD1b Antibodies: A Case Study and Literature Review.},
journal = {The American journal of case reports},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {e947416},
doi = {10.12659/AJCR.947416},
pmid = {40293968},
issn = {1941-5923},
mesh = {Humans ; *Guillain-Barre Syndrome/immunology/diagnosis/therapy/etiology ; Male ; *COVID-19/complications ; *G(M1) Ganglioside/immunology ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Gangliosides/immunology ; *Autoantibodies/blood ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has led to the emergence of various neurological complications, including Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). GBS is an acute, immune-mediated disorder characterized by progressive weakness, sensory deficits, and autonomic dysfunction. Anti-ganglioside antibodies are often seen in GBS; however, they are rarely reported in the setting of COVID-19-related GBS. We present a case of post-COVID-19 GBS with positive GM1 and GD1b antibodies. CASE REPORT An 86-year-old man presented with progressive quadriparesis, sensory deficits, and hyporeflexia 4 weeks after COVID-19 infection. Brain and spine imaging were unremarkable. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed albuminocytological dissociation, consistent with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). Despite 2 courses of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), the patient showed minimal improvement in muscle strength. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) revealed severe sensorimotor polyneuropathy, with axonal and demyelinating features. Serum testing showed elevated GM1 and GD1b anti-ganglioside antibody titers. CONCLUSIONS Although numerous cases of COVID-19-related GBS have been reported, anti-ganglioside antibody positivity, particularly GM1 and GD1b, is uncommon. The underlying mechanism is presumed to be autoimmune, likely triggered by molecular mimicry. Our case contributes to the evolving understanding of GBS immunology in the context of COVID-19. Although this case report may not alter current GBS management, the co-occurrence of GM1 and GD1b antibodies in post-COVID-19 GBS underscores the need for continued vigilance, immunological profiling, and research into potential prognostic and therapeutic implications.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Guillain-Barre Syndrome/immunology/diagnosis/therapy/etiology
Male
*COVID-19/complications
*G(M1) Ganglioside/immunology
Aged, 80 and over
*Gangliosides/immunology
*Autoantibodies/blood
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-28
Tailoring mRNA lipid nanoparticles for antifungal vaccines.
PLoS pathogens, 21(4):e1013091.
Vaccination is one of the most effective public health measures for preventing and managing infectious diseases. Despite intensive efforts from the relatively small medical mycology community, developing effective vaccines against invasive fungal infections remains a scientific challenge. This is predominantly due to large antigenic repertoires, complicated life cycles, and the capacity of fungal pathogens to evade the host immune system. Additionally, antifungal vaccines often need to work for at-risk individuals who are immunodeficient. We anticipate that the success of mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its exploration for various infectious diseases and cancers will usher a new wave of antifungal vaccine research. Herein, we discuss recent advancements and key scientific areas that need to be explored to actualize the development of effective antifungal mRNA vaccines.
Additional Links: PMID-40293964
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40293964,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Meagher, RB and Lin, X},
title = {Tailoring mRNA lipid nanoparticles for antifungal vaccines.},
journal = {PLoS pathogens},
volume = {21},
number = {4},
pages = {e1013091},
pmid = {40293964},
issn = {1553-7374},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fungal Vaccines/immunology ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology ; *Lipids/chemistry/immunology ; *Mycoses/prevention & control/immunology ; Animals ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Vaccination is one of the most effective public health measures for preventing and managing infectious diseases. Despite intensive efforts from the relatively small medical mycology community, developing effective vaccines against invasive fungal infections remains a scientific challenge. This is predominantly due to large antigenic repertoires, complicated life cycles, and the capacity of fungal pathogens to evade the host immune system. Additionally, antifungal vaccines often need to work for at-risk individuals who are immunodeficient. We anticipate that the success of mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its exploration for various infectious diseases and cancers will usher a new wave of antifungal vaccine research. Herein, we discuss recent advancements and key scientific areas that need to be explored to actualize the development of effective antifungal mRNA vaccines.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Fungal Vaccines/immunology
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology
*Lipids/chemistry/immunology
*Mycoses/prevention & control/immunology
Animals
Liposomes
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Alpha-synuclein pathology and Parkinson's disease-related olfactory dysfunctions: an update on preclinical models and therapeutic approaches.
Mammalian genome : official journal of the International Mammalian Genome Society [Epub ahead of print].
Olfactory dysfunction (OD) is considered one of the early signs of Parkinson's disease (PD), affecting over 90% of PD patients. OD often appears several years before the onset of motor symptoms and is therefore considered an early biomarker of PD. Recent studies have shown that COVID-19 infection might lead to worsening of symptoms and acceleration of disease progression in neurodegenerative disorders, where OD is a common symptom to both. Hence, it is essential to accurately monitor olfactory fitness in clinical settings using any of the currently available olfactory function tests. Even after a quarter of a century of the discovery of α-synuclein (α-syn) pathogenesis in PD, many aspects related to the α-syn pathogenesis in OD remain unknown. Currently, there is no definitive cure for PD; the disease management options include dopaminergic medications, deep brain stimulations, stem cells, and immunotherapy. Generating reliable PD animal models is critical for understanding the molecular pathways and neural circuits affected by disease conditions. This might contribute to the development and validation of new therapeutic approaches. This review discusses the known mechanisms of α-syn aggregated forms causing neuronal death, the recent developments in the PD preclinical models with ODs, and the treatment strategies employed.
Additional Links: PMID-40293510
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@article {pmid40293510,
year = {2025},
author = {Abraham, JN and Rawat, D and Srikanth, P and Sunny, LP and Abraham, NM},
title = {Alpha-synuclein pathology and Parkinson's disease-related olfactory dysfunctions: an update on preclinical models and therapeutic approaches.},
journal = {Mammalian genome : official journal of the International Mammalian Genome Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40293510},
issn = {1432-1777},
support = {BT/RLF/Re-entry/45/2014//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; IA/S/22/2/506517//Wellcome Trust DBT India Alliance/ ; },
abstract = {Olfactory dysfunction (OD) is considered one of the early signs of Parkinson's disease (PD), affecting over 90% of PD patients. OD often appears several years before the onset of motor symptoms and is therefore considered an early biomarker of PD. Recent studies have shown that COVID-19 infection might lead to worsening of symptoms and acceleration of disease progression in neurodegenerative disorders, where OD is a common symptom to both. Hence, it is essential to accurately monitor olfactory fitness in clinical settings using any of the currently available olfactory function tests. Even after a quarter of a century of the discovery of α-synuclein (α-syn) pathogenesis in PD, many aspects related to the α-syn pathogenesis in OD remain unknown. Currently, there is no definitive cure for PD; the disease management options include dopaminergic medications, deep brain stimulations, stem cells, and immunotherapy. Generating reliable PD animal models is critical for understanding the molecular pathways and neural circuits affected by disease conditions. This might contribute to the development and validation of new therapeutic approaches. This review discusses the known mechanisms of α-syn aggregated forms causing neuronal death, the recent developments in the PD preclinical models with ODs, and the treatment strategies employed.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Effectiveness of telepsychiatry interventions for youth with depressive and/or anxiety disorders: A systematic review with meta-analysis.
Clinical child psychology and psychiatry [Epub ahead of print].
ObjectiveSince the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of anxiety and depression in youth have risen. Telepsychiatry is a potential mode of intervention for such digital natives. This systematic review aims to examine the effectiveness of telepsychiatry for youth with depression and/or anxiety.MethodsFour electronic databases, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, were searched from their inception to May 12, 2024. Included studies were assessed for study quality and risk of bias.ResultsA search returning 29,944 records yielded 26 included studies, comprising 1,558 youths. Of 13 studies comparing depressive symptoms pre- and post-telepsychiatry intervention, symptom severity was significantly lower post-intervention compared to baseline (Hedges' g: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.59, 1.08). Similarly, of six studies comparing pre- and post-telepsychiatry intervention anxiety symptoms, anxiety scores were significantly lower post-intervention (Hedges' g: 1.15; 95% CI: 0.79, 1.50). Patients undergoing telepsychiatry also had superior outcomes when compared to waitlist control groups for depression (Hedges' g: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.85) but not anxiety (Hedges' g: 0.50; 95% CI: -0.09, 1.10). Certainty of these estimates ranged from moderate to very low. Qualitative feedback noted subjective improvement in symptoms and high levels of satisfaction.ConclusionTelepsychiatry has potential as a therapeutic intervention for youth anxiety and depression. Further research with more controlled methodology is needed for development of recommendations that can guide growing use of this technology.
Additional Links: PMID-40293430
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40293430,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, E and Ho, MK and Chou, OHI and Chong, S and Kwan, CT and Lam, AH and Chan, KT},
title = {Effectiveness of telepsychiatry interventions for youth with depressive and/or anxiety disorders: A systematic review with meta-analysis.},
journal = {Clinical child psychology and psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {13591045251338475},
doi = {10.1177/13591045251338475},
pmid = {40293430},
issn = {1461-7021},
abstract = {ObjectiveSince the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of anxiety and depression in youth have risen. Telepsychiatry is a potential mode of intervention for such digital natives. This systematic review aims to examine the effectiveness of telepsychiatry for youth with depression and/or anxiety.MethodsFour electronic databases, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, were searched from their inception to May 12, 2024. Included studies were assessed for study quality and risk of bias.ResultsA search returning 29,944 records yielded 26 included studies, comprising 1,558 youths. Of 13 studies comparing depressive symptoms pre- and post-telepsychiatry intervention, symptom severity was significantly lower post-intervention compared to baseline (Hedges' g: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.59, 1.08). Similarly, of six studies comparing pre- and post-telepsychiatry intervention anxiety symptoms, anxiety scores were significantly lower post-intervention (Hedges' g: 1.15; 95% CI: 0.79, 1.50). Patients undergoing telepsychiatry also had superior outcomes when compared to waitlist control groups for depression (Hedges' g: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.85) but not anxiety (Hedges' g: 0.50; 95% CI: -0.09, 1.10). Certainty of these estimates ranged from moderate to very low. Qualitative feedback noted subjective improvement in symptoms and high levels of satisfaction.ConclusionTelepsychiatry has potential as a therapeutic intervention for youth anxiety and depression. Further research with more controlled methodology is needed for development of recommendations that can guide growing use of this technology.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Granulomatous disorders of the nose and paranasal sinuses: perspective from low- and middle-income countries.
Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery, 33(3):170-175.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This is a comprehensive overview of current trends in the prevalence, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges and management of granulomatous disorders involving the nose and paranasal sinuses in low- and middle-income countries. Emphasis is placed on infective aetiologies contributing to granulomatous diseases and the emerging innovations in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
RECENT FINDINGS: Granulomatous inflammations represent a distinctive spectrum of conditions arising from infectious, autoimmune, neoplastic, and chemical exposures. The prevalence of these disorders varies globally, with infectious aetiologies being more common in subtropical regions and autoimmune inflammatory conditions predominating in Western countries. Notably, the global burden of certain infectious granulomatous diseases is declining due to improved awareness, socio-economic conditions, and enhanced access to healthcare.However, the incidence of invasive fungal mucormycosis has risen sharply following the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. Contributing factors include diabetes mellitus, excessive use of high-dose corticosteroids, and environmental influences. Early diagnosis, along with aggressive surgical debridement and antifungal therapy, remains critical for successful management.
SUMMARY: Otolaryngologists must be aware of granulomatous conditions affecting the nose and paranasal sinuses, given their potential to cause significant morbidity if left untreated. Timely diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion supported by blood tests, imaging, and histopathology for effective intervention.
Additional Links: PMID-40177822
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40177822,
year = {2025},
author = {Ranganathan, B and Natarajan, K and Nandhan, R and Abdlehamid, A},
title = {Granulomatous disorders of the nose and paranasal sinuses: perspective from low- and middle-income countries.},
journal = {Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {170-175},
doi = {10.1097/MOO.0000000000001048},
pmid = {40177822},
issn = {1531-6998},
mesh = {Humans ; *Paranasal Sinus Diseases/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy/etiology ; *Developing Countries ; *Nose Diseases/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy/etiology ; *Granuloma/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis/etiology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This is a comprehensive overview of current trends in the prevalence, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges and management of granulomatous disorders involving the nose and paranasal sinuses in low- and middle-income countries. Emphasis is placed on infective aetiologies contributing to granulomatous diseases and the emerging innovations in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
RECENT FINDINGS: Granulomatous inflammations represent a distinctive spectrum of conditions arising from infectious, autoimmune, neoplastic, and chemical exposures. The prevalence of these disorders varies globally, with infectious aetiologies being more common in subtropical regions and autoimmune inflammatory conditions predominating in Western countries. Notably, the global burden of certain infectious granulomatous diseases is declining due to improved awareness, socio-economic conditions, and enhanced access to healthcare.However, the incidence of invasive fungal mucormycosis has risen sharply following the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. Contributing factors include diabetes mellitus, excessive use of high-dose corticosteroids, and environmental influences. Early diagnosis, along with aggressive surgical debridement and antifungal therapy, remains critical for successful management.
SUMMARY: Otolaryngologists must be aware of granulomatous conditions affecting the nose and paranasal sinuses, given their potential to cause significant morbidity if left untreated. Timely diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion supported by blood tests, imaging, and histopathology for effective intervention.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Paranasal Sinus Diseases/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy/etiology
*Developing Countries
*Nose Diseases/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy/etiology
*Granuloma/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis/etiology
COVID-19/epidemiology
Prevalence
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Updates on the neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Current opinion in infectious diseases, 38(3):234-241.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Since its emergence in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has created a global surge of survivors experiencing neurologic effects from SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review aims to provide an updated synthesis of the acute and chronic neurological manifestations of COVID-19, and to outline the current therapeutic strategies for these conditions.
RECENT FINDINGS: Epidemiological studies have shown that COVID-19 patients with neurological symptoms during acute infection tend to have poorer hospital and functional outcomes. While the risk of adverse neurologic symptoms including cognitive dysfunction, headache, autonomic dysfunction, and chronic fatigue are thought to be greatest following infection with the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and its alpha variant, they remain prevalent after infection with subsequent less virulent strains as well. Some recent work has also found a link between SARS-CoV-2 and structural brain changes. However, ongoing trials show promising results for pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments targeting the postacute neurological sequelae of COVID-19.
SUMMARY: Lingering neurological manifestations after COVID-19 still pose considerable individual, healthcare system, and socioeconomic repercussions. Both preventive and multimodal treatment approaches are necessary to address these conditions. Further research is required to assess the lasting impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on the nervous system, particularly its potential contribution to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-40167111
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40167111,
year = {2025},
author = {Ocampo, FF and Holroyd, KB},
title = {Updates on the neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Current opinion in infectious diseases},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {234-241},
doi = {10.1097/QCO.0000000000001110},
pmid = {40167111},
issn = {1473-6527},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Nervous System Diseases/virology/etiology/therapy ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Since its emergence in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has created a global surge of survivors experiencing neurologic effects from SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review aims to provide an updated synthesis of the acute and chronic neurological manifestations of COVID-19, and to outline the current therapeutic strategies for these conditions.
RECENT FINDINGS: Epidemiological studies have shown that COVID-19 patients with neurological symptoms during acute infection tend to have poorer hospital and functional outcomes. While the risk of adverse neurologic symptoms including cognitive dysfunction, headache, autonomic dysfunction, and chronic fatigue are thought to be greatest following infection with the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and its alpha variant, they remain prevalent after infection with subsequent less virulent strains as well. Some recent work has also found a link between SARS-CoV-2 and structural brain changes. However, ongoing trials show promising results for pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments targeting the postacute neurological sequelae of COVID-19.
SUMMARY: Lingering neurological manifestations after COVID-19 still pose considerable individual, healthcare system, and socioeconomic repercussions. Both preventive and multimodal treatment approaches are necessary to address these conditions. Further research is required to assess the lasting impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on the nervous system, particularly its potential contribution to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Nervous System Diseases/virology/etiology/therapy
*SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-04-30
CmpDate: 2025-04-30
Clinical practice in an age of medical misinformation and conspiracy theories.
Internal medicine journal, 55(1):158-164.
Medical misinformation (false health or medical-related information) has seen a rapid increase in volume recently, with the global surge in social media usage and further exacerbation by the COVID-19 pandemic. This may put more lives at stake, as misinformation is an often-cited reason that people make dangerous health choices, engage in harmful practices and reject beneficial health treatments. In this article, we explore the drivers and consequences, as well as suggest several strategies at the personal, educational and systemic level, for physicians to guide and communicate with patients who subscribe to medical misinformation.
Additional Links: PMID-39757876
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@article {pmid39757876,
year = {2025},
author = {Choo, LX and Ng, IKS and Tan, LF and Teo, DB},
title = {Clinical practice in an age of medical misinformation and conspiracy theories.},
journal = {Internal medicine journal},
volume = {55},
number = {1},
pages = {158-164},
doi = {10.1111/imj.16588},
pmid = {39757876},
issn = {1445-5994},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Communication ; *Social Media ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Deception ; },
abstract = {Medical misinformation (false health or medical-related information) has seen a rapid increase in volume recently, with the global surge in social media usage and further exacerbation by the COVID-19 pandemic. This may put more lives at stake, as misinformation is an often-cited reason that people make dangerous health choices, engage in harmful practices and reject beneficial health treatments. In this article, we explore the drivers and consequences, as well as suggest several strategies at the personal, educational and systemic level, for physicians to guide and communicate with patients who subscribe to medical misinformation.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Communication
*Social Media
*Physician-Patient Relations
SARS-CoV-2
Deception
RevDate: 2025-04-29
Ensitrelvir as a novel treatment option for mild-to-moderate COVID-19: a narrative literature review.
Therapeutic advances in infectious disease, 12:20499361251321724.
To address the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several antiviral agents targeting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been developed for clinical use. However, antivirals that can be administered irrespective of risk factors were lacking until the approval of ensitrelvir fumaric acid (hereafter, ensitrelvir) in Japan, which took effect in November 2022. Ensitrelvir is an oral SARS-CoV-2 3C-like protease inhibitor currently approved in Japan and Singapore. This narrative review summarizes preclinical, clinical trial, and real-world data on ensitrelvir. The efficacy and safety of ensitrelvir were assessed in a seamless, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II/III study conducted in Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam (Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier, jRCT2031210350). This study enrolled patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms or asymptomatic individuals irrespective of the presence of risk factors for severe illness. Overall, ensitrelvir demonstrated favorable antiviral efficacy and symptom improvement, with an acceptable safety profile. In the phase III part, the time to resolution of the composite of five typical COVID-19 symptoms showed a difference between the ensitrelvir 125 mg and placebo groups, and the difference in median was approximately 1 day when the patients were randomized in less than 72 h of disease onset. This study is one of the clinical trials that used patient symptoms as a clinical efficacy endpoint. Additional clinical trials are currently underway to investigate the efficacy and safety of ensitrelvir in various patient populations. Moreover, published evidence generally supports the effectiveness of ensitrelvir in routine clinical practice and its antiviral activity against various SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Further research is granted to establish ensitrelvir as a novel antiviral treatment. Royalty-free licensing agreements concluded between drug manufacturers and the Medicines Patent Pool will facilitate access to COVID-19 therapeutics, including ensitrelvir, in low- and middle-income countries.
Additional Links: PMID-40292087
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40292087,
year = {2025},
author = {Mukae, H and Yotsuyanagi, H and Ohmagari, N and Doi, Y and Yamato, M and Imamura, T and Sakaguchi, H and Sanaki, T and Sonoyama, T and Tsuge, Y and Uehara, T},
title = {Ensitrelvir as a novel treatment option for mild-to-moderate COVID-19: a narrative literature review.},
journal = {Therapeutic advances in infectious disease},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {20499361251321724},
pmid = {40292087},
issn = {2049-9361},
abstract = {To address the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several antiviral agents targeting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been developed for clinical use. However, antivirals that can be administered irrespective of risk factors were lacking until the approval of ensitrelvir fumaric acid (hereafter, ensitrelvir) in Japan, which took effect in November 2022. Ensitrelvir is an oral SARS-CoV-2 3C-like protease inhibitor currently approved in Japan and Singapore. This narrative review summarizes preclinical, clinical trial, and real-world data on ensitrelvir. The efficacy and safety of ensitrelvir were assessed in a seamless, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II/III study conducted in Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam (Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier, jRCT2031210350). This study enrolled patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms or asymptomatic individuals irrespective of the presence of risk factors for severe illness. Overall, ensitrelvir demonstrated favorable antiviral efficacy and symptom improvement, with an acceptable safety profile. In the phase III part, the time to resolution of the composite of five typical COVID-19 symptoms showed a difference between the ensitrelvir 125 mg and placebo groups, and the difference in median was approximately 1 day when the patients were randomized in less than 72 h of disease onset. This study is one of the clinical trials that used patient symptoms as a clinical efficacy endpoint. Additional clinical trials are currently underway to investigate the efficacy and safety of ensitrelvir in various patient populations. Moreover, published evidence generally supports the effectiveness of ensitrelvir in routine clinical practice and its antiviral activity against various SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Further research is granted to establish ensitrelvir as a novel antiviral treatment. Royalty-free licensing agreements concluded between drug manufacturers and the Medicines Patent Pool will facilitate access to COVID-19 therapeutics, including ensitrelvir, in low- and middle-income countries.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-29
Navigating the Philippine mental health system for the nation's youth: challenges and opportunities.
BJPsych international, 21(3):56-58.
The challenges besetting the Philippine mental health system demand multifaceted, strategic responses to ensure the holistic well-being of Filipino youth. Through the integration of mental health into primary care, augmentation of the professional workforce, bolstering information infrastructure, reforming medication accessibility, augmenting budgetary allocations and invigorating governance, the Philippines can pave the way for an inclusive mental health system that adequately addresses the exigencies of its younger demographic. In doing so, the nation can make substantial strides towards alleviating the negative impacts of adverse social conditions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on the mental well-being of its youth.
Additional Links: PMID-40291986
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40291986,
year = {2024},
author = {Alibudbud, R},
title = {Navigating the Philippine mental health system for the nation's youth: challenges and opportunities.},
journal = {BJPsych international},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {56-58},
pmid = {40291986},
issn = {2056-4740},
abstract = {The challenges besetting the Philippine mental health system demand multifaceted, strategic responses to ensure the holistic well-being of Filipino youth. Through the integration of mental health into primary care, augmentation of the professional workforce, bolstering information infrastructure, reforming medication accessibility, augmenting budgetary allocations and invigorating governance, the Philippines can pave the way for an inclusive mental health system that adequately addresses the exigencies of its younger demographic. In doing so, the nation can make substantial strides towards alleviating the negative impacts of adverse social conditions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on the mental well-being of its youth.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-29
Looking beyond the origin of SARS-CoV-2: Significant strategic aspects during the five-year journey of COVID-19 vaccine development.
Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids, 36(2):102527.
It has been five years since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and we are also approaching the five-year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccine is a significant weapon in combating infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2. Several vaccines were developed against SARS-CoV-2, and they demonstrated efficacy and safety during these five years. The rapid development of multiple next-generation vaccine candidates in different platforms with very little time is the success story of the vaccine development endeavor. This remarkable success of rapid vaccine development is a new paradigm for fast vaccine development that might help develop infectious diseases and fight against the pandemic. With the completion of five years since the beginning of SARS-CoV-2 origin, we are looking back on the five years and reviewing the milestones, vaccine platforms, animal models, clinical trials, successful collaborations, vaccine safety, real-world effectiveness, and challenges. Lessons learned during these five years will help us respond to public health emergencies and to fight the battle against future pandemics.
Additional Links: PMID-40291378
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40291378,
year = {2025},
author = {Chakraborty, C and Lo, YH and Bhattacharya, M and Das, A and Wen, ZH},
title = {Looking beyond the origin of SARS-CoV-2: Significant strategic aspects during the five-year journey of COVID-19 vaccine development.},
journal = {Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {102527},
pmid = {40291378},
issn = {2162-2531},
abstract = {It has been five years since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and we are also approaching the five-year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccine is a significant weapon in combating infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2. Several vaccines were developed against SARS-CoV-2, and they demonstrated efficacy and safety during these five years. The rapid development of multiple next-generation vaccine candidates in different platforms with very little time is the success story of the vaccine development endeavor. This remarkable success of rapid vaccine development is a new paradigm for fast vaccine development that might help develop infectious diseases and fight against the pandemic. With the completion of five years since the beginning of SARS-CoV-2 origin, we are looking back on the five years and reviewing the milestones, vaccine platforms, animal models, clinical trials, successful collaborations, vaccine safety, real-world effectiveness, and challenges. Lessons learned during these five years will help us respond to public health emergencies and to fight the battle against future pandemics.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-28
Community health workers: a narrative review of a curriculum and training program for low-income communities facing limited access to healthcare.
Frontiers in public health, 13:1504490.
BACKGROUND: The aim of this narrative review is to examine a WHO-compliant program that prepares Community Health Workers (CHWs) in low-resource environments. The intended outcome of the training is to enhance healthcare access and address health equity disparities. We examined the program's curriculum, instructional methods, and a complementary continuing medical education (CME) program designed to sustain CHWs' knowledge and skills.
METHODOLOGY: We review, in detail, the CHW training program-its curriculum, delivery, and implementation-launched prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing today. This program develops critical human resources to expand the reach of overburdened healthcare professionals in disproportionately affected regions.
RESULTS: Our review highlights the positive impact of this program on marginalized communities. We propose the adoption of its curriculum and pedagogical framework by local leaders seeking to train teams of well-prepared CHWs to improve healthcare and bridge the gap between communities and medical professionals. This no-cost program is accessible even to the most under-resourced settings.
CONCLUSION: The program examined in this paper offers small, disproportionately affected communities a valuable opportunity to implement a program that equips CHWs to provide essential clinical services and conduct community-wide health education initiatives. These CHWs serve as vital bridges between their communities and the professional medical system. Their demonstrated effectiveness in serving the health needs of their communities, even during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, is noteworthy. When called for, they can support refugees fleeing war and climate pressures by offering basic clinical care and prevention training.
Additional Links: PMID-40290510
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40290510,
year = {2025},
author = {Othman, M and Selnow, GW},
title = {Community health workers: a narrative review of a curriculum and training program for low-income communities facing limited access to healthcare.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1504490},
pmid = {40290510},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {*Community Health Workers/education ; Humans ; *Curriculum ; *Health Services Accessibility ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Poverty ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The aim of this narrative review is to examine a WHO-compliant program that prepares Community Health Workers (CHWs) in low-resource environments. The intended outcome of the training is to enhance healthcare access and address health equity disparities. We examined the program's curriculum, instructional methods, and a complementary continuing medical education (CME) program designed to sustain CHWs' knowledge and skills.
METHODOLOGY: We review, in detail, the CHW training program-its curriculum, delivery, and implementation-launched prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing today. This program develops critical human resources to expand the reach of overburdened healthcare professionals in disproportionately affected regions.
RESULTS: Our review highlights the positive impact of this program on marginalized communities. We propose the adoption of its curriculum and pedagogical framework by local leaders seeking to train teams of well-prepared CHWs to improve healthcare and bridge the gap between communities and medical professionals. This no-cost program is accessible even to the most under-resourced settings.
CONCLUSION: The program examined in this paper offers small, disproportionately affected communities a valuable opportunity to implement a program that equips CHWs to provide essential clinical services and conduct community-wide health education initiatives. These CHWs serve as vital bridges between their communities and the professional medical system. Their demonstrated effectiveness in serving the health needs of their communities, even during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, is noteworthy. When called for, they can support refugees fleeing war and climate pressures by offering basic clinical care and prevention training.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Community Health Workers/education
Humans
*Curriculum
*Health Services Accessibility
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Poverty
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-04-29
The paradox of hikikomori through a transcultural lens.
BJPsych international, 22(1):22-24.
This article appraises cultural understanding and controversies regarding hikikomori (prolonged social withdrawal), with reference to research over the past 20 years. Initially viewed as a uniquely Japanese phenomenon, hikikomori is now recognised globally, prompting a re-evaluation of its cultural, psychological and socioeconomic demographics. A revision in lifestyle after the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing technological advancements - particularly the rise of social media, gaming and the internet - have paradoxically both exacerbated isolation and provided new forms of social interaction for young adults who confine themselves at home. This phenomenon underlines the complex interplay between putative individual psychopathology, neurodiversity and broader societal shifts across the globe.
Additional Links: PMID-40290477
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40290477,
year = {2025},
author = {Nagai, Y and Kartar, A and Pfaff, M and Elkholy, H},
title = {The paradox of hikikomori through a transcultural lens.},
journal = {BJPsych international},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {22-24},
pmid = {40290477},
issn = {2056-4740},
abstract = {This article appraises cultural understanding and controversies regarding hikikomori (prolonged social withdrawal), with reference to research over the past 20 years. Initially viewed as a uniquely Japanese phenomenon, hikikomori is now recognised globally, prompting a re-evaluation of its cultural, psychological and socioeconomic demographics. A revision in lifestyle after the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing technological advancements - particularly the rise of social media, gaming and the internet - have paradoxically both exacerbated isolation and provided new forms of social interaction for young adults who confine themselves at home. This phenomenon underlines the complex interplay between putative individual psychopathology, neurodiversity and broader societal shifts across the globe.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-29
Aptamer-engaged nanotherapeutics against SARS-CoV-2.
Discover nano, 20(1):71.
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2 infection, has underscored the critical importance of rapid and accurate therapeutics. The neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 is paramount in controlling the spread and impact of COVID-19. In this context, the integration of aptamers and aptamer-related nanotherapeutics presents a valuable and scientifically significant approach. Despite the potential, current reviews in this area are often not comprehensive and specific enough to encapsulate the full scope of therapeutic principles, strategies, advancements, and challenges. This review aims to fill that gap by providing an in-depth examination of the role of aptamers and their related molecular medicine in COVID-19 therapeutics. We first introduce the unique properties, selection, and recognition mechanism of aptamers to bind with high affinity to various targets. Next, we delve into the therapeutic potential of aptamers, focusing on their ability to inhibit viral entry and replication, as well as modulate the host immune response. The integration of aptamers with nucleic acid nanomedicine is explored. Finally, we address the challenges and future perspectives of aptamer and nucleic acid nanomedicine in COVID-19 therapeutics, including issues of stability, delivery, and manufacturing scalability. We conclude by underscoring the importance of continued research and development in this field to meet the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19 and potential future pandemics. Our review will be a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians interested in the latest developments at the intersection of molecular biology, nanotechnology, and infectious disease management.
Additional Links: PMID-40289185
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40289185,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, J and Wang, D and Kwok, C and Xu, L and Famulok, M},
title = {Aptamer-engaged nanotherapeutics against SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Discover nano},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {71},
pmid = {40289185},
issn = {2731-9229},
support = {CHN-1228220-HFST-P//Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung/ ; 2023T160653//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2022M723202//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2 infection, has underscored the critical importance of rapid and accurate therapeutics. The neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 is paramount in controlling the spread and impact of COVID-19. In this context, the integration of aptamers and aptamer-related nanotherapeutics presents a valuable and scientifically significant approach. Despite the potential, current reviews in this area are often not comprehensive and specific enough to encapsulate the full scope of therapeutic principles, strategies, advancements, and challenges. This review aims to fill that gap by providing an in-depth examination of the role of aptamers and their related molecular medicine in COVID-19 therapeutics. We first introduce the unique properties, selection, and recognition mechanism of aptamers to bind with high affinity to various targets. Next, we delve into the therapeutic potential of aptamers, focusing on their ability to inhibit viral entry and replication, as well as modulate the host immune response. The integration of aptamers with nucleic acid nanomedicine is explored. Finally, we address the challenges and future perspectives of aptamer and nucleic acid nanomedicine in COVID-19 therapeutics, including issues of stability, delivery, and manufacturing scalability. We conclude by underscoring the importance of continued research and development in this field to meet the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19 and potential future pandemics. Our review will be a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians interested in the latest developments at the intersection of molecular biology, nanotechnology, and infectious disease management.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-27
CmpDate: 2025-04-28
Exploring the Efficacy of Hypochlorous Acid as a Cost Effective Environmental Decontaminant in Dentistry: A Scoping Review.
Nigerian journal of clinical practice, 28(4):425-445.
Dental procedures result in the production of bioaerosols that contaminate various environmental surfaces in the dental clinic. In order to maintain a safe environment in the dental clinic and prevent cross contamination, it is important to find alternative disinfection methods and agents to ensure effective decontamination. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a cost-effective antimicrobial agent that can be used for infection control. The purpose of this scoping review is to provide evidence from the literature supporting the routine use of HOCl as a biodecontamination and disinfection agent in dental clinics. An electronic search was completed on the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley, and Science Direct. The studies were included based on their titles, abstract, and relevance to HOCl and the ability to render pathogens deactivated after exposure to HOCl vapor. The search focused on studies in the past 5 years. The search resulted in a total of 15 articles being selected after exclusions based on duplications, title, and abstract assessment. The articles included studies that used various HOCl concentrations and expanded on the inactivation of several pathogens. The reviewed studies highlight HOCl's broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy, with significant reductions in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, and Clostridioides difficile, reinforcing its role in optimizing disinfection protocols across healthcare and occupational settings. The articles selected provided clear evidence that under correct and established parameters, HOCl can provide a cheaper safer alternative to most disinfectants. Further studies are recommended on applications methods in clinical settings.
Additional Links: PMID-40288999
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40288999,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmed, R and Ahmed, S},
title = {Exploring the Efficacy of Hypochlorous Acid as a Cost Effective Environmental Decontaminant in Dentistry: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Nigerian journal of clinical practice},
volume = {28},
number = {4},
pages = {425-445},
doi = {10.4103/njcp.njcp_674_24},
pmid = {40288999},
issn = {1119-3077},
mesh = {*Hypochlorous Acid/pharmacology/economics ; Humans ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; *Decontamination/methods/economics ; Disinfection/methods ; *Infection Control, Dental/methods ; *Dental Disinfectants/pharmacology ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Dental procedures result in the production of bioaerosols that contaminate various environmental surfaces in the dental clinic. In order to maintain a safe environment in the dental clinic and prevent cross contamination, it is important to find alternative disinfection methods and agents to ensure effective decontamination. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a cost-effective antimicrobial agent that can be used for infection control. The purpose of this scoping review is to provide evidence from the literature supporting the routine use of HOCl as a biodecontamination and disinfection agent in dental clinics. An electronic search was completed on the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley, and Science Direct. The studies were included based on their titles, abstract, and relevance to HOCl and the ability to render pathogens deactivated after exposure to HOCl vapor. The search focused on studies in the past 5 years. The search resulted in a total of 15 articles being selected after exclusions based on duplications, title, and abstract assessment. The articles included studies that used various HOCl concentrations and expanded on the inactivation of several pathogens. The reviewed studies highlight HOCl's broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy, with significant reductions in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, and Clostridioides difficile, reinforcing its role in optimizing disinfection protocols across healthcare and occupational settings. The articles selected provided clear evidence that under correct and established parameters, HOCl can provide a cheaper safer alternative to most disinfectants. Further studies are recommended on applications methods in clinical settings.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Hypochlorous Acid/pharmacology/economics
Humans
Cost-Benefit Analysis
*Decontamination/methods/economics
Disinfection/methods
*Infection Control, Dental/methods
*Dental Disinfectants/pharmacology
COVID-19/prevention & control
RevDate: 2025-04-27
[Non-pharmacological interventions: A new paradigm and opportunities for internists].
La Revue de medecine interne pii:S0248-8663(25)00535-1 [Epub ahead of print].
The notion of non-pharmacological interventions (NPI) has been used by healthcare researchers since 1975, and is cited in numerous reports by French, European and international healthcare authorities, such as the WHO since 2003 and the HAS since 2011. However, it was only recently that a collaborative initiative of consensus was launched to address the lack of consensus on how to define and evaluate these health practices, amplified by the media controversy surrounding these practices during the COVID-19 episode. Indeed, in 2021, the launch of a collaborative and open research program responding to international scientific expectations in the healthcare field and to the specificities of these immaterial, personalized and targeted healthcare solutions has finally been initiated. The first part of this article, intended for specialists in internal medicine, describes the consensus-building work carried out under the guidance of a multidisciplinary committee, with the support of Inserm and the logistics of the international Non-Pharmacological Intervention Society (NPIS). Over a period of three years, this work, involving more than 1000 participants, established a definition, a characterization and an evaluative framework including 77 ethical and methodological recommendations for these practices. This NPIS Model framework has received the support of 30 French scientific and medical societies, two European societies and three French health authorities. The second part of the article presents the collaborative tools that have emerged from this work. Finally, the third part of the article looks at the implications of NPI for research and practice in the field of internal medicine.
Additional Links: PMID-40288953
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40288953,
year = {2025},
author = {Ninot, G and Minet, M and Larché, J and Ribstein, J and Chiche, L},
title = {[Non-pharmacological interventions: A new paradigm and opportunities for internists].},
journal = {La Revue de medecine interne},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.revmed.2025.04.004},
pmid = {40288953},
issn = {1768-3122},
abstract = {The notion of non-pharmacological interventions (NPI) has been used by healthcare researchers since 1975, and is cited in numerous reports by French, European and international healthcare authorities, such as the WHO since 2003 and the HAS since 2011. However, it was only recently that a collaborative initiative of consensus was launched to address the lack of consensus on how to define and evaluate these health practices, amplified by the media controversy surrounding these practices during the COVID-19 episode. Indeed, in 2021, the launch of a collaborative and open research program responding to international scientific expectations in the healthcare field and to the specificities of these immaterial, personalized and targeted healthcare solutions has finally been initiated. The first part of this article, intended for specialists in internal medicine, describes the consensus-building work carried out under the guidance of a multidisciplinary committee, with the support of Inserm and the logistics of the international Non-Pharmacological Intervention Society (NPIS). Over a period of three years, this work, involving more than 1000 participants, established a definition, a characterization and an evaluative framework including 77 ethical and methodological recommendations for these practices. This NPIS Model framework has received the support of 30 French scientific and medical societies, two European societies and three French health authorities. The second part of the article presents the collaborative tools that have emerged from this work. Finally, the third part of the article looks at the implications of NPI for research and practice in the field of internal medicine.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-27
mRNA vaccines for prostate cancer: A novel promising immunotherapy.
Biochimica et biophysica acta. Reviews on cancer pii:S0304-419X(25)00075-7 [Epub ahead of print].
The treatment of advanced prostate cancer (PCa) primarily based on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT); however, patients inevitably progress to the castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) stage. Despite the recent advancements in CRPC treatment with novel endocrine drugs that further inhibit androgen receptor signaling, resistance ultimately develops, underscoring the urgent need for new effective therapeutic strategies. Therapeutic cancer vaccines, a form of immunotherapy, exert anti-cancer effects by activating the host's immune system. Over the past few decades, various conventional therapeutic PCa vaccines based on cells, microbes, proteins, peptides, or DNA have been developed and tested in patients with advanced PCa. These attempts have largely failed to improve survival, with the sole exception of sipuleucel-T, which extended the median overall survival of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic CRPC (mCRPC) patients by four months. The rapid development and high efficacy of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic have garnered worldwide attention. Compared to conventional vaccines, mRNA vaccines offer several unique advantages, including high production efficiency, low cost, high safety, strong immune response induction, and high adaptability and precision. These attributes make mRNA vaccines a promising frontier in the treatment of advanced PCa.
Additional Links: PMID-40288658
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40288658,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, Y and Yi, X and Ai, J},
title = {mRNA vaccines for prostate cancer: A novel promising immunotherapy.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Reviews on cancer},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {189333},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbcan.2025.189333},
pmid = {40288658},
issn = {1879-2561},
abstract = {The treatment of advanced prostate cancer (PCa) primarily based on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT); however, patients inevitably progress to the castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) stage. Despite the recent advancements in CRPC treatment with novel endocrine drugs that further inhibit androgen receptor signaling, resistance ultimately develops, underscoring the urgent need for new effective therapeutic strategies. Therapeutic cancer vaccines, a form of immunotherapy, exert anti-cancer effects by activating the host's immune system. Over the past few decades, various conventional therapeutic PCa vaccines based on cells, microbes, proteins, peptides, or DNA have been developed and tested in patients with advanced PCa. These attempts have largely failed to improve survival, with the sole exception of sipuleucel-T, which extended the median overall survival of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic CRPC (mCRPC) patients by four months. The rapid development and high efficacy of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic have garnered worldwide attention. Compared to conventional vaccines, mRNA vaccines offer several unique advantages, including high production efficiency, low cost, high safety, strong immune response induction, and high adaptability and precision. These attributes make mRNA vaccines a promising frontier in the treatment of advanced PCa.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
[Importance of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy for the management of neuroendocrine tumours].
Radiologie (Heidelberg, Germany), 65(5):371-380.
Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are rare, heterogeneous neoplasms that often express somatostatin receptors (SSTRs). This allows targeted peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for NETs. PRRT is currently indicated as second- or third-line therapy for metastatic or unresectable, progressive, SSTR-positive NETs of grade (G) 1 or 2. Adequate bone marrow reserves as well as renal and hepatic function are required for PRRT. The most commonly used radiopharmaceutical for PRRT is [177]Lu-DOTA-TATE. PRRT prolongs progression-free and overall survival, reduces or stabilises tumour burden, and improves tumour symptoms and quality of life. Adverse events associated with PRRT are mostly mild and transient. Haemato- and nephrotoxicity are the most common toxicities following PRRT. The NETTER‑2 and COMPOSE trials are investigating PRRT with [177]Lu-DOTA-TATE/-TOC in G2 and G3 gastroenteropancreatic NETs.
Additional Links: PMID-40227439
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40227439,
year = {2025},
author = {Ciuciulkaite, I and Herrmann, K and Lahner, H},
title = {[Importance of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy for the management of neuroendocrine tumours].},
journal = {Radiologie (Heidelberg, Germany)},
volume = {65},
number = {5},
pages = {371-380},
pmid = {40227439},
issn = {2731-7056},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuroendocrine Tumors/radiotherapy ; *Octreotide/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives ; *Radiopharmaceuticals/therapeutic use ; *Receptors, Somatostatin/metabolism ; *Receptors, Peptide ; *Radioisotopes/therapeutic use ; Organometallic Compounds/therapeutic use ; Lutetium/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are rare, heterogeneous neoplasms that often express somatostatin receptors (SSTRs). This allows targeted peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for NETs. PRRT is currently indicated as second- or third-line therapy for metastatic or unresectable, progressive, SSTR-positive NETs of grade (G) 1 or 2. Adequate bone marrow reserves as well as renal and hepatic function are required for PRRT. The most commonly used radiopharmaceutical for PRRT is [177]Lu-DOTA-TATE. PRRT prolongs progression-free and overall survival, reduces or stabilises tumour burden, and improves tumour symptoms and quality of life. Adverse events associated with PRRT are mostly mild and transient. Haemato- and nephrotoxicity are the most common toxicities following PRRT. The NETTER‑2 and COMPOSE trials are investigating PRRT with [177]Lu-DOTA-TATE/-TOC in G2 and G3 gastroenteropancreatic NETs.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Neuroendocrine Tumors/radiotherapy
*Octreotide/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives
*Radiopharmaceuticals/therapeutic use
*Receptors, Somatostatin/metabolism
*Receptors, Peptide
*Radioisotopes/therapeutic use
Organometallic Compounds/therapeutic use
Lutetium/therapeutic use
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
Pharmacokinetic Interactions of Paxlovid Involving CYP3A Enzymes and P-gp Transporter: An Overview of Clinical Data.
Current drug metabolism, 25(9):639-652.
BACKGROUND: The US FDA has approved paxlovid, a combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, as the first oral treatment for the management of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review article is to explore the clinical data that is currently available regarding the drug-drug interactions (DDIs) of paxlovid with various medications.
METHODS: Keywords, such as drug interactions, paxlovid, ritonavir, nirmatrelvir, pharmacokinetic interactions, CYP3A, and P-glycoprotein, were used to search online databases, including LitCOVID, Scopus, Embase, EBSCO host, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and reference lists.
RESULTS: Paxlovid interacted with a variety of medications due to strong inhibition of CYP3A4 and P-gp transporter protein by ritonavir and the dual function of nirmatrelvir as a substrate and inhibitor of CYP3A enzymes and P-gp transporter protein. Numerous case reports and other studies determined that the risk of toxicities of several drugs, including anticoagulants (warfarin, rivaroxaban), calcium channel blockers (nifedipine, manidipine, verapamil), statins (atorvastatin), immunosuppressants (tacrolimus), antiarrhythmics (amiodarone), antipsychotics (clozapine, quetiapine), and ranolazine have been enhanced by the concomitant administration of paxlovid.
CONCLUSION: Adverse effects of paxlovid from DDIs can range from less-than-ideal therapeutic responses to potentially fatal toxicities. Effective management requires close observation, adjustments to dosage, and assessment of substitute treatments. Collaboration between pharmacists and other medical professionals is necessary to guarantee effective and safe treatment outcomes of paxlovid therapy.
Additional Links: PMID-39917926
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39917926,
year = {2024},
author = {Maideen, NMP and Kandasamy, K and Balasubramanian, R},
title = {Pharmacokinetic Interactions of Paxlovid Involving CYP3A Enzymes and P-gp Transporter: An Overview of Clinical Data.},
journal = {Current drug metabolism},
volume = {25},
number = {9},
pages = {639-652},
pmid = {39917926},
issn = {1875-5453},
mesh = {Humans ; Drug Interactions ; *Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A/metabolism ; *ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/metabolism ; *Ritonavir/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The US FDA has approved paxlovid, a combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, as the first oral treatment for the management of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review article is to explore the clinical data that is currently available regarding the drug-drug interactions (DDIs) of paxlovid with various medications.
METHODS: Keywords, such as drug interactions, paxlovid, ritonavir, nirmatrelvir, pharmacokinetic interactions, CYP3A, and P-glycoprotein, were used to search online databases, including LitCOVID, Scopus, Embase, EBSCO host, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and reference lists.
RESULTS: Paxlovid interacted with a variety of medications due to strong inhibition of CYP3A4 and P-gp transporter protein by ritonavir and the dual function of nirmatrelvir as a substrate and inhibitor of CYP3A enzymes and P-gp transporter protein. Numerous case reports and other studies determined that the risk of toxicities of several drugs, including anticoagulants (warfarin, rivaroxaban), calcium channel blockers (nifedipine, manidipine, verapamil), statins (atorvastatin), immunosuppressants (tacrolimus), antiarrhythmics (amiodarone), antipsychotics (clozapine, quetiapine), and ranolazine have been enhanced by the concomitant administration of paxlovid.
CONCLUSION: Adverse effects of paxlovid from DDIs can range from less-than-ideal therapeutic responses to potentially fatal toxicities. Effective management requires close observation, adjustments to dosage, and assessment of substitute treatments. Collaboration between pharmacists and other medical professionals is necessary to guarantee effective and safe treatment outcomes of paxlovid therapy.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Drug Interactions
*Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A/metabolism
*ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1/metabolism
*Ritonavir/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
[Chronic pain syndrome in musculoskeletal diseases-how different are fibromyalgia and long COVID?-Part 2].
Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie, 84(4):320-329.
Acute and chronic pain play an important part in the care of patients with musculoskeletal diseases. For rheumatologists this represents a frequent challenge. For the management of chronic pain conditions in rheumatology those that cannot be explained by objective tissue damage are particularly important-which makes patients' subjective assessment of pain a central building block of the diagnosis. For the diagnosis of fibromyalgia (FM) standardized questionnaires such as the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and the Symptom Severity Score (SSS) are used. In connection with the recent global SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic protracted courses and health problems have been described, which have been termed long COVID syndrome and have some similarities but, as is shown in the following, also demonstrate some differences from FM. There has recently been an interesting scientific controversy that culminated in a pros and cons session at the EULAR congress 2024, following several publications. The arguments and citations exchanged have served as the basis for the overview produced here, which is intended to offer rheumatologists confronted with such clinical pictures assistance with the assessment of these diseases, even if the results of the studies presented are definitely controversial.
Additional Links: PMID-39888379
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39888379,
year = {2025},
author = {Braun, J},
title = {[Chronic pain syndrome in musculoskeletal diseases-how different are fibromyalgia and long COVID?-Part 2].},
journal = {Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie},
volume = {84},
number = {4},
pages = {320-329},
pmid = {39888379},
issn = {1435-1250},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fibromyalgia/diagnosis/therapy ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology ; *Chronic Pain/diagnosis/therapy ; *Musculoskeletal Diseases/diagnosis/therapy ; Pain Measurement/methods ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Pandemics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Acute and chronic pain play an important part in the care of patients with musculoskeletal diseases. For rheumatologists this represents a frequent challenge. For the management of chronic pain conditions in rheumatology those that cannot be explained by objective tissue damage are particularly important-which makes patients' subjective assessment of pain a central building block of the diagnosis. For the diagnosis of fibromyalgia (FM) standardized questionnaires such as the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and the Symptom Severity Score (SSS) are used. In connection with the recent global SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic protracted courses and health problems have been described, which have been termed long COVID syndrome and have some similarities but, as is shown in the following, also demonstrate some differences from FM. There has recently been an interesting scientific controversy that culminated in a pros and cons session at the EULAR congress 2024, following several publications. The arguments and citations exchanged have served as the basis for the overview produced here, which is intended to offer rheumatologists confronted with such clinical pictures assistance with the assessment of these diseases, even if the results of the studies presented are definitely controversial.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Fibromyalgia/diagnosis/therapy
*COVID-19/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology
*Chronic Pain/diagnosis/therapy
*Musculoskeletal Diseases/diagnosis/therapy
Pain Measurement/methods
Diagnosis, Differential
Pandemics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
[Chronic pain syndrome in musculoskeletal diseases-how different are fibromyalgia and long Covid?-Part 1].
Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie, 84(4):312-319.
Chronic pain is a common problem in rheumatology. Nociceptive pain is distinguished from neuropathic and nociplastic pain. Mechanistically, the former is explained by persistent inflammation, for example. Included in the second category is nerve damage of various causes. In contrast, nociplastic pain is not caused by tissue damage or a lesion in the somatosensory nerve system. It is caused by an altered sensation of pain through the modulation of stimulus processing. The concept of central sensitization, together with further neurobiological and psychosocial mechanisms, best explains such pain conditions. Fibromyalgia (FM) plays a big part in rheumatology - on the one hand, as a differential diagnosis, and on the other, because the management of inflammatory rheumatic conditions is made more difficult by the simultaneous occurrence of FM. In the context of the coronavirus pandemic, persistent pain syndromes with similarities to FM have been described after COVID-19 infection. There is an increasing scientific controversy whether the so-called long Covid syndrome is an actual entity or "only" a variant of FM. This discussion and the current state of knowledge on the problem are the subject of this review.
Additional Links: PMID-39888378
PubMed:
Citation:
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hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid39888378,
year = {2025},
author = {Braun, J},
title = {[Chronic pain syndrome in musculoskeletal diseases-how different are fibromyalgia and long Covid?-Part 1].},
journal = {Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie},
volume = {84},
number = {4},
pages = {312-319},
pmid = {39888378},
issn = {1435-1250},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fibromyalgia/diagnosis/therapy ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/complications/therapy ; *Chronic Pain/diagnosis/therapy ; Diagnosis, Differential ; *Musculoskeletal Diseases/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Chronic pain is a common problem in rheumatology. Nociceptive pain is distinguished from neuropathic and nociplastic pain. Mechanistically, the former is explained by persistent inflammation, for example. Included in the second category is nerve damage of various causes. In contrast, nociplastic pain is not caused by tissue damage or a lesion in the somatosensory nerve system. It is caused by an altered sensation of pain through the modulation of stimulus processing. The concept of central sensitization, together with further neurobiological and psychosocial mechanisms, best explains such pain conditions. Fibromyalgia (FM) plays a big part in rheumatology - on the one hand, as a differential diagnosis, and on the other, because the management of inflammatory rheumatic conditions is made more difficult by the simultaneous occurrence of FM. In the context of the coronavirus pandemic, persistent pain syndromes with similarities to FM have been described after COVID-19 infection. There is an increasing scientific controversy whether the so-called long Covid syndrome is an actual entity or "only" a variant of FM. This discussion and the current state of knowledge on the problem are the subject of this review.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Fibromyalgia/diagnosis/therapy
*COVID-19/diagnosis/complications/therapy
*Chronic Pain/diagnosis/therapy
Diagnosis, Differential
*Musculoskeletal Diseases/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-04-29
CmpDate: 2025-04-29
The SARS-CoV-2 antibody-dependent enhancement façade.
Microbes and infection, 27(3):105464.
Antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) is an immunological paradox whereby sensitization following a primary viral infection results in the subsequent enhancement of a similar secondary infection. This idiosyncratic immune response has been established in dengue virus infections, driven by four antigenically related serotypes co-circulating in endemic regions. Several coronaviruses exhibit antibody-mediated mechanisms of viral entry, which has led to speculation of an ADE capacity for SARS-CoV-2, though in vivo and epidemiological evidence do not currently support this phenomenon. Three distinct antibody-dependent mechanisms for SARS-CoV-2 entry have recently been demonstrated: 1. FcR-dependent, 2. ACE2-FcR-interdependent, and 3. FcR-independent. These mechanisms of viral entry may be dependent on SARS-CoV-2 antibody specificity; antibodies targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD) typically result in Fc-dependent and ACE2-FcR-interdependent entry, whereas antibodies targeting the N-terminal domain can induce a conformational change to the RBD that optimizes ACE2-receptor binding domain interactions independent of Fc receptors. Whether these antibody-dependent entry mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 result in the generation of infectious progenies and enhancement of infection has not been robustly demonstrated. Furthermore, ADE of SARS-CoV-2 mediated by antigenic seniority remains a theoretical concern, as no evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 imprinting blunts a subsequent immune response, contributing to severe COVID-19 disease.
Additional Links: PMID-39662700
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39662700,
year = {2025},
author = {Coish, JM and MacNeil, LA and MacNeil, AJ},
title = {The SARS-CoV-2 antibody-dependent enhancement façade.},
journal = {Microbes and infection},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {105464},
doi = {10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105464},
pmid = {39662700},
issn = {1769-714X},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology ; Virus Internalization ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/immunology/metabolism ; Animals ; Receptors, Fc/immunology ; },
abstract = {Antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) is an immunological paradox whereby sensitization following a primary viral infection results in the subsequent enhancement of a similar secondary infection. This idiosyncratic immune response has been established in dengue virus infections, driven by four antigenically related serotypes co-circulating in endemic regions. Several coronaviruses exhibit antibody-mediated mechanisms of viral entry, which has led to speculation of an ADE capacity for SARS-CoV-2, though in vivo and epidemiological evidence do not currently support this phenomenon. Three distinct antibody-dependent mechanisms for SARS-CoV-2 entry have recently been demonstrated: 1. FcR-dependent, 2. ACE2-FcR-interdependent, and 3. FcR-independent. These mechanisms of viral entry may be dependent on SARS-CoV-2 antibody specificity; antibodies targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD) typically result in Fc-dependent and ACE2-FcR-interdependent entry, whereas antibodies targeting the N-terminal domain can induce a conformational change to the RBD that optimizes ACE2-receptor binding domain interactions independent of Fc receptors. Whether these antibody-dependent entry mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 result in the generation of infectious progenies and enhancement of infection has not been robustly demonstrated. Furthermore, ADE of SARS-CoV-2 mediated by antigenic seniority remains a theoretical concern, as no evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 imprinting blunts a subsequent immune response, contributing to severe COVID-19 disease.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology
Virus Internalization
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/immunology/metabolism
Animals
Receptors, Fc/immunology
RevDate: 2025-04-27
Designing highly efficient heterocyclic inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 3C-like proteinase: a comprehensive in silico study.
Journal of biomolecular structure & dynamics [Epub ahead of print].
To address the limitations of current COVID-19 treatments, we conducted an integrated in-silico investigation to design potential drugs with proven efficacy against the virus. We developed Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) models using a database of 63 Aromatic heterocyclic compounds, focusing on key parameters Effective Diameter (ED) and Diameter Maximum (DM). Our models, utilizing multi-linear regression (MLR) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN), were validated according to OECD principles and successfully used to predict unexplored aromatic heterocyclic compounds with Pyridine Cores. Compound 4 (Dexbrompheniramine) exhibited high inhibition against the SARS coronavirus 3 C-like protease, leading to the design of two new molecules (compounds 15 and 16) with enhanced activity based on structural enhancements from the QSAR model. Docking studies and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the improved binding energies and stability of compounds 15 and 16, with compound 15 showing remarkable stability and strong binding affinity with the 3 C-like proteinase (1P9U). This comprehensive in-silico review identifies compound 15 as a promising candidate for experimental evaluation as a potential COVID-19 drug, highlighting a significant advancement in our battle against the pandemic.
Additional Links: PMID-40287959
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40287959,
year = {2025},
author = {Nor, N and Zahm, S and El Alaoui El Abdallaoui, H and Kerraj, S and Naji, N and Mazoir, N and Komiha, N and Marakchi, K and Salah, M},
title = {Designing highly efficient heterocyclic inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 3C-like proteinase: a comprehensive in silico study.},
journal = {Journal of biomolecular structure & dynamics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-9},
doi = {10.1080/07391102.2025.2494842},
pmid = {40287959},
issn = {1538-0254},
abstract = {To address the limitations of current COVID-19 treatments, we conducted an integrated in-silico investigation to design potential drugs with proven efficacy against the virus. We developed Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) models using a database of 63 Aromatic heterocyclic compounds, focusing on key parameters Effective Diameter (ED) and Diameter Maximum (DM). Our models, utilizing multi-linear regression (MLR) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN), were validated according to OECD principles and successfully used to predict unexplored aromatic heterocyclic compounds with Pyridine Cores. Compound 4 (Dexbrompheniramine) exhibited high inhibition against the SARS coronavirus 3 C-like protease, leading to the design of two new molecules (compounds 15 and 16) with enhanced activity based on structural enhancements from the QSAR model. Docking studies and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the improved binding energies and stability of compounds 15 and 16, with compound 15 showing remarkable stability and strong binding affinity with the 3 C-like proteinase (1P9U). This comprehensive in-silico review identifies compound 15 as a promising candidate for experimental evaluation as a potential COVID-19 drug, highlighting a significant advancement in our battle against the pandemic.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-27
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of the fractures and etiology of orofacial trauma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BMC oral health, 25(1):643.
BACKGROUND: To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of oral and maxillofacial fractures (OMFs) by comparing current data with pre-pandemic trends.
METHODS: Eligibility criteria: Observational studies comparing current data from OMFs with pre-pandemic trends were eligible for inclusion.
INFORMATION SOURCES: An electronic search was conducted in six databases up to January 15, 2024 and gray literature and reference lists. Risk of bias: The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool for analytical cross-sectional studies.
SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: Results were presented as both qualitative and quantitative syntheses. Prevalence and Comparative meta-analysis were performed to evaluate the location and etiology of OMFs in the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods using R version 4.4.1.
RESULTS: Included studies: Fifty-one studies with 104,960 patients and 23,514 cases of OMFs met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review.
SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: Mandibular fractures showed a decrease in prevalence from 24% in the pre-pandemic period to 20% during the pandemic (OR 0.73 [0.59-0.90], I[2] = 62%). OMFs caused by falls and violence increased significantly, from 23% for 30% (OR 1.29 [1.06-1.57], I[2] = 76%) and from 22% for 31% (OR 1.43 [1.04-1.98], I[2] = 45%), respectively.
CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in the prevalence of OMFs, including an increase in cases caused by falls and interpersonal violence, as well as a decrease in mandibular fractures. The results should be interpreted with caution due to the heterogeneity and inconsistency found in the studies included in the review. The data presented here may inform public health policies and emergency response protocols for managing OMFTs in future global health crises like pandemics. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CRD42023431119.
Additional Links: PMID-40287714
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40287714,
year = {2025},
author = {Alves, VP and Souto-Souza, D and Fernandes, IA and Falci, SGM and de Souza, GM},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of the fractures and etiology of orofacial trauma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {643},
pmid = {40287714},
issn = {1472-6831},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Maxillofacial Injuries/epidemiology/etiology ; Mandibular Fractures/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of oral and maxillofacial fractures (OMFs) by comparing current data with pre-pandemic trends.
METHODS: Eligibility criteria: Observational studies comparing current data from OMFs with pre-pandemic trends were eligible for inclusion.
INFORMATION SOURCES: An electronic search was conducted in six databases up to January 15, 2024 and gray literature and reference lists. Risk of bias: The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool for analytical cross-sectional studies.
SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: Results were presented as both qualitative and quantitative syntheses. Prevalence and Comparative meta-analysis were performed to evaluate the location and etiology of OMFs in the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods using R version 4.4.1.
RESULTS: Included studies: Fifty-one studies with 104,960 patients and 23,514 cases of OMFs met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review.
SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: Mandibular fractures showed a decrease in prevalence from 24% in the pre-pandemic period to 20% during the pandemic (OR 0.73 [0.59-0.90], I[2] = 62%). OMFs caused by falls and violence increased significantly, from 23% for 30% (OR 1.29 [1.06-1.57], I[2] = 76%) and from 22% for 31% (OR 1.43 [1.04-1.98], I[2] = 45%), respectively.
CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in the prevalence of OMFs, including an increase in cases caused by falls and interpersonal violence, as well as a decrease in mandibular fractures. The results should be interpreted with caution due to the heterogeneity and inconsistency found in the studies included in the review. The data presented here may inform public health policies and emergency response protocols for managing OMFTs in future global health crises like pandemics. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CRD42023431119.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Maxillofacial Injuries/epidemiology/etiology
Mandibular Fractures/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-27
Recent advances in TAM mechanisms in lung diseases.
Journal of translational medicine, 23(1):479.
TYRO3, MERTK, and AXL receptor tyrosine kinases, collectively known as TAM receptors, play a vital role in maintaining lung tissue homeostasis by regulating integrity and self-renewal. These receptors activate signalling pathways that inhibit apoptosis, promote cell proliferation and differentiation, mediate cell adhesion and migration, and perform other essential biological functions. Additionally, TAM receptors are implicated in mechanisms that suppress anti-tumor immunity and confer resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Disruption of the homeostatic balances can lead to pathological conditions such as lung inflammation, fibrosis, or tumors. Recent studies highlight their significant role in COVID-19-induced lung injury. However, the exact mechanisms by which TAM receptors contribute to lung diseases remain unclear. This article reviews the potential mechanisms of TAM receptor involvement in disease progression, focusing on lung inflammation, fibrosis, cancer, and COVID-19-induced lung injury. It also explores future research aspects and the therapeutic potentials of targeting TAM receptors, providing a theoretical foundation for understanding lung disease mechanisms and identifying treatment targets.
Additional Links: PMID-40287707
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40287707,
year = {2025},
author = {Ban, J and Qian, J and Zhang, C and Li, J},
title = {Recent advances in TAM mechanisms in lung diseases.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {479},
pmid = {40287707},
issn = {1479-5876},
mesh = {Humans ; *Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/metabolism ; COVID-19/complications/pathology ; *Lung Diseases/metabolism/pathology ; c-Mer Tyrosine Kinase/metabolism ; Axl Receptor Tyrosine Kinase ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Signal Transduction ; *Proto-Oncogene Proteins/metabolism ; },
abstract = {TYRO3, MERTK, and AXL receptor tyrosine kinases, collectively known as TAM receptors, play a vital role in maintaining lung tissue homeostasis by regulating integrity and self-renewal. These receptors activate signalling pathways that inhibit apoptosis, promote cell proliferation and differentiation, mediate cell adhesion and migration, and perform other essential biological functions. Additionally, TAM receptors are implicated in mechanisms that suppress anti-tumor immunity and confer resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Disruption of the homeostatic balances can lead to pathological conditions such as lung inflammation, fibrosis, or tumors. Recent studies highlight their significant role in COVID-19-induced lung injury. However, the exact mechanisms by which TAM receptors contribute to lung diseases remain unclear. This article reviews the potential mechanisms of TAM receptor involvement in disease progression, focusing on lung inflammation, fibrosis, cancer, and COVID-19-induced lung injury. It also explores future research aspects and the therapeutic potentials of targeting TAM receptors, providing a theoretical foundation for understanding lung disease mechanisms and identifying treatment targets.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/metabolism
COVID-19/complications/pathology
*Lung Diseases/metabolism/pathology
c-Mer Tyrosine Kinase/metabolism
Axl Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
Signal Transduction
*Proto-Oncogene Proteins/metabolism
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
Current Analytical Strategies for mRNA-Based Therapeutics.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 30(7):.
Recent advancements in mRNA technology, utilized in vaccines, immunotherapies, protein replacement therapies, and genome editing, have emerged as promising and increasingly viable treatments. The rapid, potent, and transient properties of mRNA-encoded proteins make them attractive tools for the effective treatment of a variety of conditions, ranging from infectious diseases to cancer and single-gene disorders. The capability for rapid and large-scale production of mRNA therapeutics fueled the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For effective clinical implementation, it is crucial to deeply characterize and control important mRNA attributes such as purity/integrity, identity, structural quality features, and functionality. This implies the use of powerful and advanced analytical techniques for quality control and characterization of mRNA. Improvements in analytical techniques such as electrophoresis, chromatography, mass spectrometry, sequencing, and functionality assessments have significantly enhanced the quality and detail of information available for product and process characterization, as well as for routine stability and release testing. Here, we review the latest advancements in analytical techniques for the characterization of mRNA-based therapeutics, typically employed by the biopharmaceutical industry for eventual market release.
Additional Links: PMID-40286229
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40286229,
year = {2025},
author = {Camperi, J and Chatla, K and Freund, E and Galan, C and Lippold, S and Guilbaud, A},
title = {Current Analytical Strategies for mRNA-Based Therapeutics.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40286229},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics/chemistry/analysis ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19/virology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Mass Spectrometry ; },
abstract = {Recent advancements in mRNA technology, utilized in vaccines, immunotherapies, protein replacement therapies, and genome editing, have emerged as promising and increasingly viable treatments. The rapid, potent, and transient properties of mRNA-encoded proteins make them attractive tools for the effective treatment of a variety of conditions, ranging from infectious diseases to cancer and single-gene disorders. The capability for rapid and large-scale production of mRNA therapeutics fueled the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For effective clinical implementation, it is crucial to deeply characterize and control important mRNA attributes such as purity/integrity, identity, structural quality features, and functionality. This implies the use of powerful and advanced analytical techniques for quality control and characterization of mRNA. Improvements in analytical techniques such as electrophoresis, chromatography, mass spectrometry, sequencing, and functionality assessments have significantly enhanced the quality and detail of information available for product and process characterization, as well as for routine stability and release testing. Here, we review the latest advancements in analytical techniques for the characterization of mRNA-based therapeutics, typically employed by the biopharmaceutical industry for eventual market release.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
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*RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics/chemistry/analysis
Humans
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19/virology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Mass Spectrometry
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus (TGEV) and Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus (PRCV): Epidemiology and Molecular Characteristics-An Updated Overview.
Viruses, 17(4):.
Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and porcine respiratory coronavirus (PRCV) are enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses belonging to the genus Alphacoronavirus in the family Coronaviridae. PRCV, a TGEV mutant with a spike(S) gene deletion, exhibits altered tissue tropism. TGEV replicates mainly in the intestines and causes severe diarrhea and high mortality in piglets, whereas PRCV replicates mainly in the respiratory tract. PRCV causes mild or subclinical respiratory infections but may contribute to respiratory disease syndrome in pigs infected with other respiratory pathogens. As PRCV and TGEV continuously evolve, monitoring these viruses is important for disease prevention and control. In this review, we provide updated information on the prevalence and genetic characteristics of TGEV/PRCV and their phylogenetic relationships. We also discuss the impact of mutations, deletions and recombination on the virulence and tissue tropism of TGEV/PRCV and highlight the possible zoonotic potential of these viruses.
Additional Links: PMID-40284936
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284936,
year = {2025},
author = {Olech, M and Antas, M},
title = {Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus (TGEV) and Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus (PRCV): Epidemiology and Molecular Characteristics-An Updated Overview.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284936},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Animals ; Swine ; *Transmissible gastroenteritis virus/genetics/classification/physiology/pathogenicity ; *Gastroenteritis, Transmissible, of Swine/epidemiology/virology ; Phylogeny ; *Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus/genetics/classification/pathogenicity/physiology ; *Swine Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/veterinary/virology ; Viral Tropism ; Virulence ; Mutation ; Genome, Viral ; },
abstract = {Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and porcine respiratory coronavirus (PRCV) are enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses belonging to the genus Alphacoronavirus in the family Coronaviridae. PRCV, a TGEV mutant with a spike(S) gene deletion, exhibits altered tissue tropism. TGEV replicates mainly in the intestines and causes severe diarrhea and high mortality in piglets, whereas PRCV replicates mainly in the respiratory tract. PRCV causes mild or subclinical respiratory infections but may contribute to respiratory disease syndrome in pigs infected with other respiratory pathogens. As PRCV and TGEV continuously evolve, monitoring these viruses is important for disease prevention and control. In this review, we provide updated information on the prevalence and genetic characteristics of TGEV/PRCV and their phylogenetic relationships. We also discuss the impact of mutations, deletions and recombination on the virulence and tissue tropism of TGEV/PRCV and highlight the possible zoonotic potential of these viruses.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Animals
Swine
*Transmissible gastroenteritis virus/genetics/classification/physiology/pathogenicity
*Gastroenteritis, Transmissible, of Swine/epidemiology/virology
Phylogeny
*Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus/genetics/classification/pathogenicity/physiology
*Swine Diseases/epidemiology/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/veterinary/virology
Viral Tropism
Virulence
Mutation
Genome, Viral
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
Myocarditis and Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy in Dilated Heart Failure.
Viruses, 17(4):.
Inflammatory cardiomyopathy is a condition that is characterised by the presence of inflammatory cells in the myocardium, which can lead to a significant deterioration in cardiac function. The etiology of this condition involves multiple factors, both infectious and non-infectious causes. While it is primarily associated with viral infections, other potential causes include bacterial, protozoal, or fungal infections, as well as a wide variety of toxic substances and drugs, and systemic immune-mediated pathological conditions. In spite of comprehensive investigation, the presence of inflammatory cardiomyopathy accompanied by left ventricular dysfunction, heart failure or arrhythmia is indicative of an unfavourable outcome. The reasons for the occurrence of either favourable outcomes, characterised by the absence of residual myocardial injury, or unfavourable outcomes, marked by the development of dilated cardiomyopathy, in patients afflicted by the condition remain to be elucidated. The relative contributions of pathogenic agents, genomic profiles of the host, and environmental factors in disease progression and resolution remain subjects of ongoing discourse. This includes the determination of which viruses function as active inducers and which merely play a bystander role. It remains unknown which changes in the host immune profile are critical in determining the outcome of myocarditis caused by various viruses, including coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3), adenoviruses, parvoviruses B19 and SARS-CoV-2. The objective of this review is unambiguous: to provide a concise summary and comprehensive assessment of the extant evidence on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of myocarditis and inflammatory cardiomyopathy. Its focus is exclusively on virus-induced and virus-associated myocarditis. In addition, the extant lacunae of knowledge in this field are identified and the extant experimental models are evaluated, with the aim of proposing future directions for the research domain. This includes differential gene expression that regulates iron and lipid and metabolic remodelling. Furthermore, the current state of knowledge regarding the cardiovascular implications of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is also discussed, along with the open questions that remain to be addressed.
Additional Links: PMID-40284927
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284927,
year = {2025},
author = {Nappi, F},
title = {Myocarditis and Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy in Dilated Heart Failure.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284927},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Myocarditis/virology/pathology/etiology/diagnosis/complications ; *Cardiomyopathy, Dilated/virology/pathology/etiology ; COVID-19/complications ; *Heart Failure/virology ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cardiomyopathies/virology ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {Inflammatory cardiomyopathy is a condition that is characterised by the presence of inflammatory cells in the myocardium, which can lead to a significant deterioration in cardiac function. The etiology of this condition involves multiple factors, both infectious and non-infectious causes. While it is primarily associated with viral infections, other potential causes include bacterial, protozoal, or fungal infections, as well as a wide variety of toxic substances and drugs, and systemic immune-mediated pathological conditions. In spite of comprehensive investigation, the presence of inflammatory cardiomyopathy accompanied by left ventricular dysfunction, heart failure or arrhythmia is indicative of an unfavourable outcome. The reasons for the occurrence of either favourable outcomes, characterised by the absence of residual myocardial injury, or unfavourable outcomes, marked by the development of dilated cardiomyopathy, in patients afflicted by the condition remain to be elucidated. The relative contributions of pathogenic agents, genomic profiles of the host, and environmental factors in disease progression and resolution remain subjects of ongoing discourse. This includes the determination of which viruses function as active inducers and which merely play a bystander role. It remains unknown which changes in the host immune profile are critical in determining the outcome of myocarditis caused by various viruses, including coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3), adenoviruses, parvoviruses B19 and SARS-CoV-2. The objective of this review is unambiguous: to provide a concise summary and comprehensive assessment of the extant evidence on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of myocarditis and inflammatory cardiomyopathy. Its focus is exclusively on virus-induced and virus-associated myocarditis. In addition, the extant lacunae of knowledge in this field are identified and the extant experimental models are evaluated, with the aim of proposing future directions for the research domain. This includes differential gene expression that regulates iron and lipid and metabolic remodelling. Furthermore, the current state of knowledge regarding the cardiovascular implications of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is also discussed, along with the open questions that remain to be addressed.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Myocarditis/virology/pathology/etiology/diagnosis/complications
*Cardiomyopathy, Dilated/virology/pathology/etiology
COVID-19/complications
*Heart Failure/virology
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
*Cardiomyopathies/virology
Inflammation
RevDate: 2025-04-28
The Mystery of Certain Lactobacillus acidophilus Strains in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Symptoms of COVID-19: A Review.
Microorganisms, 13(4):.
COVID-19 presents a wide range of symptoms, including gastrointestinal manifestations such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Lactobacillus acidophilus has been proposed as a potential adjunct therapy to alleviate these symptoms due to its probiotic properties, which help restore gut microbiota balance and modulate immune responses. This review systematically analyzed studies assessing the effects of L. acidophilus in COVID-19 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. The literature search was conducted through PubMed and the WHO COVID-19 database using keywords such as "Lactobacillus acidophilus", "COVID-19", "gastrointestinal symptoms", and "inflammation markers". The search covered studies published until February 2025. Inclusion criteria: observational and clinical trials with L. acidophilus for symptom relief. Exclusion: animal studies and non-ethical approvals. The findings suggest that L. acidophilus supplementation may contribute to faster resolution of diarrhea, improved gut microbiota balance, and reduced inflammatory markers. However, some studies have found no significant impact on hospitalization rates or disease progression. The probiotic's mechanisms of action appear to involve microbiota modulation, intestinal barrier reinforcement, and anti-inflammatory effects rather than direct viral inhibition in COVID-19 after progression. Some L. acidophilus strains show promise, and clinical validation should follow careful preclinical studies (in vitro, cell lines, and animal models), especially in vulnerable populations such as immunocompromised individuals. Understanding the gut-lung axis and its role in immune response regulation, together with the need for a thorough characterization of the specific strains, including biochemical, genomic, and functional properties, before testing in humans, may provide deeper insights into the therapeutic potential of probiotics in viral infections.
Additional Links: PMID-40284780
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284780,
year = {2025},
author = {Bertola, B and Cotolí-Crespo, A and San Onofre, N and Soriano, JM},
title = {The Mystery of Certain Lactobacillus acidophilus Strains in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Symptoms of COVID-19: A Review.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284780},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {COVID-19 presents a wide range of symptoms, including gastrointestinal manifestations such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Lactobacillus acidophilus has been proposed as a potential adjunct therapy to alleviate these symptoms due to its probiotic properties, which help restore gut microbiota balance and modulate immune responses. This review systematically analyzed studies assessing the effects of L. acidophilus in COVID-19 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. The literature search was conducted through PubMed and the WHO COVID-19 database using keywords such as "Lactobacillus acidophilus", "COVID-19", "gastrointestinal symptoms", and "inflammation markers". The search covered studies published until February 2025. Inclusion criteria: observational and clinical trials with L. acidophilus for symptom relief. Exclusion: animal studies and non-ethical approvals. The findings suggest that L. acidophilus supplementation may contribute to faster resolution of diarrhea, improved gut microbiota balance, and reduced inflammatory markers. However, some studies have found no significant impact on hospitalization rates or disease progression. The probiotic's mechanisms of action appear to involve microbiota modulation, intestinal barrier reinforcement, and anti-inflammatory effects rather than direct viral inhibition in COVID-19 after progression. Some L. acidophilus strains show promise, and clinical validation should follow careful preclinical studies (in vitro, cell lines, and animal models), especially in vulnerable populations such as immunocompromised individuals. Understanding the gut-lung axis and its role in immune response regulation, together with the need for a thorough characterization of the specific strains, including biochemical, genomic, and functional properties, before testing in humans, may provide deeper insights into the therapeutic potential of probiotics in viral infections.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Predisposing and Precipitating Factors in Epstein-Barr Virus-Caused Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Microorganisms, 13(4):.
Long COVID following SARS-CoV-2 and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) following infectious mononucleosis (IM) are two examples of post-viral syndromes. The identification of risk factors predisposing patients to developing and maintaining post-infectious syndromes may help uncover their underlying mechanisms. The majority of patients with ME/CFS report infectious illnesses before the onset of ME/CFS, with 30% of cases of ME/CFS due to IM caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. After developing IM, one study found 11% of adults had ME/CFS at 6 months and 9% had ME/CFS at 1 year. Another study of adolescents found 13% and 7% with ME/CFS at 6 and 12 months following IM, respectively. However, it is unclear which variables are potential risk factors contributing to the development and maintenance of ME/CFS following IM, because few prospective studies have collected baseline data before the onset of the triggering illness. The current article provides an overview of a study that included pre-illness predictors of ME/CFS development following IM in a diverse group of college students who were enrolled before the onset of IM. Our data set included an ethnically and sociodemographically diverse group of young adult students, and we were able to longitudinally follow these youths over time to better understand the risk factors associated with the pathophysiology of ME/CFS. General screens of health and psychological well-being, as well as blood samples, were obtained at three stages of the study (Stage 1-Baseline-when the students were well, at least 6 weeks before the student developed IM; Stage 2-within 6 weeks following the diagnosis of IM, and Stage 3-six months after IM, when they had either developed ME/CFS or recovered). We focused on the risk factors for new cases of ME/CFS following IM and found factors both at baseline (Stage 1) and at the time of IM (Stage 2) that predicted nonrecovery. We are now collecting seven-year follow-up data on this sample, as well as including cases of long COVID. The lessons learned in this prospective study are reviewed.
Additional Links: PMID-40284540
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284540,
year = {2025},
author = {Jason, LA and Katz, BZ},
title = {Predisposing and Precipitating Factors in Epstein-Barr Virus-Caused Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284540},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Long COVID following SARS-CoV-2 and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) following infectious mononucleosis (IM) are two examples of post-viral syndromes. The identification of risk factors predisposing patients to developing and maintaining post-infectious syndromes may help uncover their underlying mechanisms. The majority of patients with ME/CFS report infectious illnesses before the onset of ME/CFS, with 30% of cases of ME/CFS due to IM caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. After developing IM, one study found 11% of adults had ME/CFS at 6 months and 9% had ME/CFS at 1 year. Another study of adolescents found 13% and 7% with ME/CFS at 6 and 12 months following IM, respectively. However, it is unclear which variables are potential risk factors contributing to the development and maintenance of ME/CFS following IM, because few prospective studies have collected baseline data before the onset of the triggering illness. The current article provides an overview of a study that included pre-illness predictors of ME/CFS development following IM in a diverse group of college students who were enrolled before the onset of IM. Our data set included an ethnically and sociodemographically diverse group of young adult students, and we were able to longitudinally follow these youths over time to better understand the risk factors associated with the pathophysiology of ME/CFS. General screens of health and psychological well-being, as well as blood samples, were obtained at three stages of the study (Stage 1-Baseline-when the students were well, at least 6 weeks before the student developed IM; Stage 2-within 6 weeks following the diagnosis of IM, and Stage 3-six months after IM, when they had either developed ME/CFS or recovered). We focused on the risk factors for new cases of ME/CFS following IM and found factors both at baseline (Stage 1) and at the time of IM (Stage 2) that predicted nonrecovery. We are now collecting seven-year follow-up data on this sample, as well as including cases of long COVID. The lessons learned in this prospective study are reviewed.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
The Modulation of Cell Plasticity by Budesonide: Beyond the Metabolic and Anti-Inflammatory Actions of Glucocorticoids.
Pharmaceutics, 17(4):.
The synthetic cortisol analog budesonide (BUD) is an essential drug employed to manage chronic inflammatory diseases in humans, mainly those involving gastroenteric and airway mucosa, such as rhinitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, esophagitis, gastritis, and colitis, with high levels of success. As a glucocorticoid, BUD prevents the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and the recruitment of immune cells into the inflamed mucosa. However, emerging evidence indicates that BUD, unlike classical glucocorticoids, is also a potent modulator of stem and cancer cell behavior/plasticity. Certainly, BUD stabilizes cell-cell adhesions, preventing embryonic stem cell differentiation and inhibiting the development of 3D gastruloids. In addition, BUD inhibits the motile/invasive propensity of different cancer cells, including breast, lung, and pancreatic cancer. Finally, it prevents the infection of positive single-stranded human-infecting RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. At a molecular level, BUD induces epigenetic changes and modifies the transcriptome of epithelial, stem, and cancer cells, providing molecular support to the immune cell-independent activity of BUD. Here, we performed an in-depth review of these unexpected activities of BUD, identified by unbiased drug screening programs, and we emphasize the molecular mechanisms modulated by this efficacious drug that deserve further research.
Additional Links: PMID-40284499
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284499,
year = {2025},
author = {Patriarca, EJ and D'Aniello, C and De Cesare, D and Cobellis, G and Minchiotti, G},
title = {The Modulation of Cell Plasticity by Budesonide: Beyond the Metabolic and Anti-Inflammatory Actions of Glucocorticoids.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284499},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {IG20736//Italian Foundation for Cancer Research (AIRC)/ ; 2022KME7RY//Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR-PRIN)/ ; P20224ZY5P//Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR-PRIN)/ ; PNC 0000001 D34Health//Next Generation EU, in the context of the National Plan for Complementary Investments (PNC) to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR)/ ; },
abstract = {The synthetic cortisol analog budesonide (BUD) is an essential drug employed to manage chronic inflammatory diseases in humans, mainly those involving gastroenteric and airway mucosa, such as rhinitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, esophagitis, gastritis, and colitis, with high levels of success. As a glucocorticoid, BUD prevents the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and the recruitment of immune cells into the inflamed mucosa. However, emerging evidence indicates that BUD, unlike classical glucocorticoids, is also a potent modulator of stem and cancer cell behavior/plasticity. Certainly, BUD stabilizes cell-cell adhesions, preventing embryonic stem cell differentiation and inhibiting the development of 3D gastruloids. In addition, BUD inhibits the motile/invasive propensity of different cancer cells, including breast, lung, and pancreatic cancer. Finally, it prevents the infection of positive single-stranded human-infecting RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. At a molecular level, BUD induces epigenetic changes and modifies the transcriptome of epithelial, stem, and cancer cells, providing molecular support to the immune cell-independent activity of BUD. Here, we performed an in-depth review of these unexpected activities of BUD, identified by unbiased drug screening programs, and we emphasize the molecular mechanisms modulated by this efficacious drug that deserve further research.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Expanded Spectrum and Increased Incidence of Adverse Events Linked to COVID-19 Genetic Vaccines: New Concepts on Prophylactic Immuno-Gene Therapy, Iatrogenic Orphan Disease, and Platform-Inherent Challenges.
Pharmaceutics, 17(4):.
The mRNA- and DNA-based "genetic" COVID-19 vaccines can induce a broad range of adverse events (AEs), with statistics showing significant variation depending on the timing and data analysis methods used. Focusing only on lipid nanoparticle-enclosed mRNA (mRNA-LNP) vaccines, this review traces the evolution of statistical conclusions on the prevalence of AEs and incidents associated with these vaccines, from initial underestimation of atypical, severe toxicities to recent claims suggesting the possible contribution of COVID-19 vaccinations to the excess deaths observed in many countries over the past few years. Among hundreds of different AEs listed in Pfizer's pharmacovigilance survey, the present analysis categorizes the main symptoms according to organ systems, with nearly all of them being affected. Using data from the US Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System and a global vaccination dataset, a comparison of the prevalence and incidence rates of AEs induced by genetic versus flu vaccines revealed an average 26-fold increase in AEs with the use of genetic vaccines. The difference is especially pronounced in the case of severe 'Brighton-listed' AEs, which are also observed in COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions. Among these, the increases in incidence rates relative to flu vaccines, given as x-fold rises, were 1152x, 455x, 226x, 218x, 162x, 152x, and 131x for myocarditis, thrombosis, death, myocardial infarction, tachycardia, dyspnea, and hypertension, respectively. The review delineates the concept that genetic vaccines can be regarded as prophylactic immuno-gene therapies and that the observed chronic disabling AEs might be categorized as iatrogenic orphan diseases. It also examines the unique vaccine characteristics that could be causally related to abnormal immune responses which potentially lead to adverse events and complications. These new insights may contribute to improving the safety of this platform technology and assessing the risk/benefit balance of various products.
Additional Links: PMID-40284445
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284445,
year = {2025},
author = {Szebeni, J},
title = {Expanded Spectrum and Increased Incidence of Adverse Events Linked to COVID-19 Genetic Vaccines: New Concepts on Prophylactic Immuno-Gene Therapy, Iatrogenic Orphan Disease, and Platform-Inherent Challenges.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284445},
issn = {1999-4923},
abstract = {The mRNA- and DNA-based "genetic" COVID-19 vaccines can induce a broad range of adverse events (AEs), with statistics showing significant variation depending on the timing and data analysis methods used. Focusing only on lipid nanoparticle-enclosed mRNA (mRNA-LNP) vaccines, this review traces the evolution of statistical conclusions on the prevalence of AEs and incidents associated with these vaccines, from initial underestimation of atypical, severe toxicities to recent claims suggesting the possible contribution of COVID-19 vaccinations to the excess deaths observed in many countries over the past few years. Among hundreds of different AEs listed in Pfizer's pharmacovigilance survey, the present analysis categorizes the main symptoms according to organ systems, with nearly all of them being affected. Using data from the US Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System and a global vaccination dataset, a comparison of the prevalence and incidence rates of AEs induced by genetic versus flu vaccines revealed an average 26-fold increase in AEs with the use of genetic vaccines. The difference is especially pronounced in the case of severe 'Brighton-listed' AEs, which are also observed in COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions. Among these, the increases in incidence rates relative to flu vaccines, given as x-fold rises, were 1152x, 455x, 226x, 218x, 162x, 152x, and 131x for myocarditis, thrombosis, death, myocardial infarction, tachycardia, dyspnea, and hypertension, respectively. The review delineates the concept that genetic vaccines can be regarded as prophylactic immuno-gene therapies and that the observed chronic disabling AEs might be categorized as iatrogenic orphan diseases. It also examines the unique vaccine characteristics that could be causally related to abnormal immune responses which potentially lead to adverse events and complications. These new insights may contribute to improving the safety of this platform technology and assessing the risk/benefit balance of various products.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Advancements in Research and Applications of PP-Based Materials Utilizing Melt-Blown Nonwoven Technology.
Polymers, 17(8):.
Melt-blown nonwoven materials have demonstrated significant advancements in a multitude of industrial sectors, mainly due to their high production efficiency, extensive specific surface area, and narrow aperture. The demand for melt-blown nonwoven materials has increased further in recent time, particularly in the wake of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Polypropylene (PP) is extensively used in production and research due to its low cost, low weight, and easy processing, and the melt-blown materials made from it share similar characteristics. We systematically summarize the research advancements of melt-blown nonwoven technology and applications of PP-based melt-blown materials over the last few years. First, the principles and processes of melt-blown nonwoven that govern the production of micro/nano fibers are described. Then the raw materials and process technology of melt-blown are reviewed. After these, we highlight the use of PP-based melt-blown materials in key fields, including media filtration, oil-water separation, heavy metal ions removal, organic pollutants removal and battery separator. Finally, we summary and suggest some potential future research directions of melt-blown nonwoven technology and PP-based melt-blown materials.
Additional Links: PMID-40284278
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40284278,
year = {2025},
author = {Fang, Z and Wang, J and Xie, S and Lian, Z and Luo, Z and Du, Y and Zhang, X},
title = {Advancements in Research and Applications of PP-Based Materials Utilizing Melt-Blown Nonwoven Technology.},
journal = {Polymers},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40284278},
issn = {2073-4360},
support = {2024zdyf0009//Key Research and Development Program of Karamay/ ; },
abstract = {Melt-blown nonwoven materials have demonstrated significant advancements in a multitude of industrial sectors, mainly due to their high production efficiency, extensive specific surface area, and narrow aperture. The demand for melt-blown nonwoven materials has increased further in recent time, particularly in the wake of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Polypropylene (PP) is extensively used in production and research due to its low cost, low weight, and easy processing, and the melt-blown materials made from it share similar characteristics. We systematically summarize the research advancements of melt-blown nonwoven technology and applications of PP-based melt-blown materials over the last few years. First, the principles and processes of melt-blown nonwoven that govern the production of micro/nano fibers are described. Then the raw materials and process technology of melt-blown are reviewed. After these, we highlight the use of PP-based melt-blown materials in key fields, including media filtration, oil-water separation, heavy metal ions removal, organic pollutants removal and battery separator. Finally, we summary and suggest some potential future research directions of melt-blown nonwoven technology and PP-based melt-blown materials.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
Methodology of Epidemic Risk Analysis in the Naval Military.
International journal of environmental research and public health, 22(4):.
This review of the literature examines diseases and pathogen characteristics on military vessels, in order to improve the success of missions on a boat. Our aim is to understand the spread of disease, aiming to maximize biological resilience and hopefully eliminate outbreaks. Keyword research was conducted from various sources of information, including scientific publications, theses, public health organization websites, and clinical trials. A synthesis of bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitosis characteristics was established, and a risk prioritization index was defined, based on contagiousness (basic reproduction number (R0)) and clinical severity. For instance, COVID-19 was assessed as moderately contagious, with critical severity, and Influenza A H1N1 as having a minor level of contagiousness with critical severity, resulting in a level two out of three risk prioritization index. This approach demonstrates that while diseases have numerous characteristics, a method for classifying them by isolating specific criteria and prioritizing them could be proposed. In conclusion, further work is needed to analyze onboard operator activities and develop simulation models related to pathogen characteristics.
Additional Links: PMID-40283797
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40283797,
year = {2025},
author = {Peultier-Celli, L and Gérard, A and Letourneur, F and Inghels, C and Duclos, A and Perrin, P},
title = {Methodology of Epidemic Risk Analysis in the Naval Military.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40283797},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {Humans ; Risk Assessment/methods ; *Military Personnel ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; Ships ; },
abstract = {This review of the literature examines diseases and pathogen characteristics on military vessels, in order to improve the success of missions on a boat. Our aim is to understand the spread of disease, aiming to maximize biological resilience and hopefully eliminate outbreaks. Keyword research was conducted from various sources of information, including scientific publications, theses, public health organization websites, and clinical trials. A synthesis of bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitosis characteristics was established, and a risk prioritization index was defined, based on contagiousness (basic reproduction number (R0)) and clinical severity. For instance, COVID-19 was assessed as moderately contagious, with critical severity, and Influenza A H1N1 as having a minor level of contagiousness with critical severity, resulting in a level two out of three risk prioritization index. This approach demonstrates that while diseases have numerous characteristics, a method for classifying them by isolating specific criteria and prioritizing them could be proposed. In conclusion, further work is needed to analyze onboard operator activities and develop simulation models related to pathogen characteristics.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
Risk Assessment/methods
*Military Personnel
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
Ships
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
Mental Health in the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review of Collateral Effects on Common Mental Disorders (CMDs).
International journal of environmental research and public health, 22(4):.
It is unclear whether the COVID-19 pandemic has had consequences for common mental disorders (CMDs). This scoping review aims to examine direct infection-related (e.g., severe COVID-19 illness), psychosocial (e.g., social isolation), and indirect outcomes (e.g., changes in incidence) that have been particularly discussed so far. A literature search for clinically diagnosed adult CMDs was conducted using Pubmed, Web of Science, and PsycInfo (n = 5325). After completion of the screening process, 26 included studies remained for extraction. None of the included studies reported post-pandemic data. The effects appeared to be particularly pronounced for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders in the first year of the pandemic. This was followed by a period of adjustment, during which rates of mental disease and its symptoms largely returned to pre-pandemic levels. Fluctuating rates of CMDs may have had COVID-related causes. Preventive temporary inpatient care could be a protective approach for those at risk or vulnerable, as well as establishing pandemic consultation and building resilience. A gap in the research is the lack of comparisons of CMD data before, during, and after the pandemic to distinguish transient disease rates from chronic disease requiring treatment.
Additional Links: PMID-40283707
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40283707,
year = {2025},
author = {Höhn, AM and Ascone, L and Lohse, L and Kugler, D and Lambert, M and Wege, N and Wittmann, F and Riedel-Heller, S and Luppa, M and Elsayed, MEG and Hurlemann, R},
title = {Mental Health in the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review of Collateral Effects on Common Mental Disorders (CMDs).},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40283707},
issn = {1660-4601},
support = {01KX2021//Federal Ministry of Education and Research/ ; },
mesh = {*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology/etiology/psychology ; *Mental Health ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Social Isolation ; },
abstract = {It is unclear whether the COVID-19 pandemic has had consequences for common mental disorders (CMDs). This scoping review aims to examine direct infection-related (e.g., severe COVID-19 illness), psychosocial (e.g., social isolation), and indirect outcomes (e.g., changes in incidence) that have been particularly discussed so far. A literature search for clinically diagnosed adult CMDs was conducted using Pubmed, Web of Science, and PsycInfo (n = 5325). After completion of the screening process, 26 included studies remained for extraction. None of the included studies reported post-pandemic data. The effects appeared to be particularly pronounced for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders in the first year of the pandemic. This was followed by a period of adjustment, during which rates of mental disease and its symptoms largely returned to pre-pandemic levels. Fluctuating rates of CMDs may have had COVID-related causes. Preventive temporary inpatient care could be a protective approach for those at risk or vulnerable, as well as establishing pandemic consultation and building resilience. A gap in the research is the lack of comparisons of CMD data before, during, and after the pandemic to distinguish transient disease rates from chronic disease requiring treatment.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Humans
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology/etiology/psychology
*Mental Health
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Social Isolation
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and COVID-19: The Impact of Hematological Biomarkers on Disease Severity and Outcomes.
Journal of clinical medicine, 14(8):.
Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are at heightened risk of severe COVID-19 due to underlying respiratory impairment, systemic inflammation, and immune dysregulation. This review explores the hematological changes that occur in COPD patients with COVID-19 and their implications for disease progression, prognosis, and clinical management. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of recent peer-reviewed studies from medical databases including Clarivate Analytics, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results: Hematological alterations, such as lymphopenia, elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), increased D-dimer and fibrinogen levels, inflammatory anemia, and erythrocyte dysfunction, are commonly observed in COPD patients with COVID-19. These changes are linked to immune suppression, hyperinflammation, oxidative stress, and thromboembolic complications. Conclusions: Hematological biomarkers are valuable tools for early risk assessments and guiding treatment strategies in this high-risk population. The regular monitoring of D-dimer, fibrinogen, and NLR is advisable. Prophylactic anticoagulation and immunomodulatory therapies, such as corticosteroids and IL-6 and IL-1 inhibitors, may improve clinical outcomes. Further clinical studies are needed to validate personalized approaches and explore antioxidant-based interventions.
Additional Links: PMID-40283596
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40283596,
year = {2025},
author = {Mara, G and Nini, G and Cotoraci, C},
title = {Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and COVID-19: The Impact of Hematological Biomarkers on Disease Severity and Outcomes.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40283596},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are at heightened risk of severe COVID-19 due to underlying respiratory impairment, systemic inflammation, and immune dysregulation. This review explores the hematological changes that occur in COPD patients with COVID-19 and their implications for disease progression, prognosis, and clinical management. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of recent peer-reviewed studies from medical databases including Clarivate Analytics, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results: Hematological alterations, such as lymphopenia, elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), increased D-dimer and fibrinogen levels, inflammatory anemia, and erythrocyte dysfunction, are commonly observed in COPD patients with COVID-19. These changes are linked to immune suppression, hyperinflammation, oxidative stress, and thromboembolic complications. Conclusions: Hematological biomarkers are valuable tools for early risk assessments and guiding treatment strategies in this high-risk population. The regular monitoring of D-dimer, fibrinogen, and NLR is advisable. Prophylactic anticoagulation and immunomodulatory therapies, such as corticosteroids and IL-6 and IL-1 inhibitors, may improve clinical outcomes. Further clinical studies are needed to validate personalized approaches and explore antioxidant-based interventions.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
Variability in Arterial Stiffness and Vascular Endothelial Function After COVID-19 During 1.5 Years of Follow-Up-Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Life (Basel, Switzerland), 15(4):.
Increasing long-term observations suggest that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vasculopathy may persist even 1.5 years after the acute phase, potentially accelerating the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. This study systematically reviewed the variability of brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) from the acute phase of COVID-19 through 16 months of follow-up (F/U). Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Embase were screened for a meta-analysis without language or date restrictions (PROSPERO reference CRD42025642888, last search conducted on 1 February 2025). The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale. We considered all studies (interventional pre-post studies, prospective observational studies, prospective randomized, and non-randomized trials) that assessed FMD or cfPWV in adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with or after laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 compared with non-COVID-19 controls or that assessed changes in these parameters during the F/U. Twenty-one studies reported differences in FMD, and 18 studies examined cfPWV between COVID-19 patients and control groups during various stages: acute/subacute COVID-19 (≤30 days from disease onset), early (>30-90 days), mid-term (>90-180 days), late (>180-270 days), and very late (>270 days) post-COVID-19 recovery. Six studies assessed variability in FMD, while nine did so for cfPWV during the F/U. Data from 14 FMD studies (627 cases and 694 controls) and 15 cfPWV studies (578 cases and 703 controls) were included in our meta-analysis. FMD showed a significant decrease compared to controls during the acute/subacute phase (standardized mean difference [SMD]= -2.02, p < 0.001), with partial improvements noted from the acute/subacute phase to early recovery (SMD = 0.95, p < 0.001) and from early to mid-term recovery (SMD = 0.92, p = 0.006). Normalization compared to controls was observed in late recovery (SMD = 0.12, p = 0.69). In contrast, cfPWV values, which were higher than controls in the acute/subacute phase (SMD = 1.27, p < 0.001), remained elevated throughout the F/U, with no significant changes except for a decrease from mid-term to very late recovery (SMD= -0.39, p < 0.001). In the very late recovery, cfPWV values remained higher than those of controls (SMD = 0.45, p = 0.010). In the manuscript, we discuss how various factors, including the severity of acute COVID-19, the persistence of long-term COVID-19 syndrome, and the patient's initial vascular age, depending on metrics age and cardiovascular risk factors, influenced the time and degree of FMD and cfPWV improvement.
Additional Links: PMID-40283075
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40283075,
year = {2025},
author = {Loboda, D and Golba, KS and Gurowiec, P and Bredelytė, A and Razbadauskas, A and Sarecka-Hujar, B},
title = {Variability in Arterial Stiffness and Vascular Endothelial Function After COVID-19 During 1.5 Years of Follow-Up-Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40283075},
issn = {2075-1729},
support = {BNW-2-016/N/4/K//Medical University of Silesia/ ; },
abstract = {Increasing long-term observations suggest that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vasculopathy may persist even 1.5 years after the acute phase, potentially accelerating the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. This study systematically reviewed the variability of brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) from the acute phase of COVID-19 through 16 months of follow-up (F/U). Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Embase were screened for a meta-analysis without language or date restrictions (PROSPERO reference CRD42025642888, last search conducted on 1 February 2025). The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale. We considered all studies (interventional pre-post studies, prospective observational studies, prospective randomized, and non-randomized trials) that assessed FMD or cfPWV in adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with or after laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 compared with non-COVID-19 controls or that assessed changes in these parameters during the F/U. Twenty-one studies reported differences in FMD, and 18 studies examined cfPWV between COVID-19 patients and control groups during various stages: acute/subacute COVID-19 (≤30 days from disease onset), early (>30-90 days), mid-term (>90-180 days), late (>180-270 days), and very late (>270 days) post-COVID-19 recovery. Six studies assessed variability in FMD, while nine did so for cfPWV during the F/U. Data from 14 FMD studies (627 cases and 694 controls) and 15 cfPWV studies (578 cases and 703 controls) were included in our meta-analysis. FMD showed a significant decrease compared to controls during the acute/subacute phase (standardized mean difference [SMD]= -2.02, p < 0.001), with partial improvements noted from the acute/subacute phase to early recovery (SMD = 0.95, p < 0.001) and from early to mid-term recovery (SMD = 0.92, p = 0.006). Normalization compared to controls was observed in late recovery (SMD = 0.12, p = 0.69). In contrast, cfPWV values, which were higher than controls in the acute/subacute phase (SMD = 1.27, p < 0.001), remained elevated throughout the F/U, with no significant changes except for a decrease from mid-term to very late recovery (SMD= -0.39, p < 0.001). In the very late recovery, cfPWV values remained higher than those of controls (SMD = 0.45, p = 0.010). In the manuscript, we discuss how various factors, including the severity of acute COVID-19, the persistence of long-term COVID-19 syndrome, and the patient's initial vascular age, depending on metrics age and cardiovascular risk factors, influenced the time and degree of FMD and cfPWV improvement.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
COVID-19-Related Diplopia and Its Treatment.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 61(4):.
Background and Objectives: The effects of COVID-19 disease can manifest and cause eye complications, one of which is diplopia. Diplopia is a medical condition that makes one object appear like two images. People may also experience diplopia after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, after contracting COVID-19, or following a COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods: This review aims to summarize the cases of COVID-19 that can cause diplopia and its treatment in the past 5 years. The literature search databases used for this review were PubMed and Scopus. The keywords used were "diplopia," "COVID-19," and "treatment." Sixteen articles were reviewed after screening and applying the inclusion criteria. Results: The results show that over the past 5 years, cases of diplopia related to COVID-19 have occurred in America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most studies are case reports, and the total number of patients was 26, with an age range of 14 to 81. Conclusions: The diplopia cases recovered within 1 day to 8 months. Patients who experienced diplopia after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, during COVID-19 infection, or after COVID-19 infection exhibited different symptoms. Nasopharyngeal swabs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT) scans, visual acuity tests, slit lamp biomicroscope examinations, eye movement tests, funduscopic examinations, and blood tests were the most commonly performed tests. Corticosteroids such as prednisone, methylprednisolone, and prednisolone were the most commonly used drugs to treat diplopia. In addition to corticosteroids, antibiotics, antivirals, antiplatelets, and vitamins were also given. An eye patch was considered to alleviate the diplopia.
Additional Links: PMID-40282917
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40282917,
year = {2025},
author = {Patricia, S and Kartika, A and Puspitasari, IM},
title = {COVID-19-Related Diplopia and Its Treatment.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40282917},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Diplopia/etiology/drug therapy/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Male ; },
abstract = {Background and Objectives: The effects of COVID-19 disease can manifest and cause eye complications, one of which is diplopia. Diplopia is a medical condition that makes one object appear like two images. People may also experience diplopia after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, after contracting COVID-19, or following a COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods: This review aims to summarize the cases of COVID-19 that can cause diplopia and its treatment in the past 5 years. The literature search databases used for this review were PubMed and Scopus. The keywords used were "diplopia," "COVID-19," and "treatment." Sixteen articles were reviewed after screening and applying the inclusion criteria. Results: The results show that over the past 5 years, cases of diplopia related to COVID-19 have occurred in America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most studies are case reports, and the total number of patients was 26, with an age range of 14 to 81. Conclusions: The diplopia cases recovered within 1 day to 8 months. Patients who experienced diplopia after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, during COVID-19 infection, or after COVID-19 infection exhibited different symptoms. Nasopharyngeal swabs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT) scans, visual acuity tests, slit lamp biomicroscope examinations, eye movement tests, funduscopic examinations, and blood tests were the most commonly performed tests. Corticosteroids such as prednisone, methylprednisolone, and prednisolone were the most commonly used drugs to treat diplopia. In addition to corticosteroids, antibiotics, antivirals, antiplatelets, and vitamins were also given. An eye patch was considered to alleviate the diplopia.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Diplopia/etiology/drug therapy/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Adult
Middle Aged
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Male
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
Aggressive Squamoid Eccrine Ductal Carcinoma of the Face: A Rare and Challenging Diagnosis-Case Report and Literature Review.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 61(4):.
Background: Squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma (SEDC) is an exceedingly rare and aggressive cutaneous adnexal malignancy, with fewer than 100 reported cases. Its histopathologic overlap with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) frequently leads to misdiagnosis, delaying appropriate management. Unlike SCC, SEDC exhibits biphasic differentiation, deep infiltration, and a high rate of perineural invasion, contributing to significant morbidity and poor long-term outcomes. Given the absence of standardized treatment protocols, managing SEDC remains a challenge. Case Presentation: We report an unusual case of an 80-year-old female presenting with progressive numbness, nasal deviation, and a subcutaneous indurated lesion in the left nasofacial region. The early neurological symptoms were an atypical feature, suggesting perineural invasion (PNI) before visible tumor progression. Initial histopathologic evaluation was inconclusive, raising suspicion of SCC, necessitating immunohistochemical analysis, which confirmed ductal differentiation, leading to the final diagnosis of SEDC. The patient underwent radical resection with intraoperative margin assessment (Mohs micrographic surgery; MMS) followed by adjuvant radiotherapy (62 Gy/31 fractions) due to high-risk features, including perineural and perivascular invasion. Despite initial disease control, a local recurrence involving the left orbit and nasal bone occurred 20 months postoperatively, demonstrating the aggressive nature of SEDC despite clear surgical margins and adjuvant therapy. Due to disease progression and refusal of further surgery, only palliative care was provided. During follow-up, the patient contracted COVID-19, further complicating her clinical status and contributing to her demise. While COVID-19 was not directly linked to SEDC progression, its impact on patient management was significant. Conclusions: This case underscores the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of SEDC, emphasizing the need for early suspicion, extensive histopathologic assessment, and aggressive multimodal treatment. The importance of multidisciplinary management-particularly in elderly and immunocompromised patients-and long-term surveillance due to high recurrence risk and PNI is crucial.
Additional Links: PMID-40282903
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40282903,
year = {2025},
author = {Špiljak, B and Sauerborn, D and Tomas, M and Gregorić Butina, B and Mahovne, I and Erić, S and Vidaković, B and Lešić, S},
title = {Aggressive Squamoid Eccrine Ductal Carcinoma of the Face: A Rare and Challenging Diagnosis-Case Report and Literature Review.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40282903},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Aged, 80 and over ; *Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/diagnosis/pathology ; *Carcinoma, Ductal/diagnosis/pathology ; Face/pathology ; *Sweat Gland Neoplasms/diagnosis/pathology ; },
abstract = {Background: Squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma (SEDC) is an exceedingly rare and aggressive cutaneous adnexal malignancy, with fewer than 100 reported cases. Its histopathologic overlap with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) frequently leads to misdiagnosis, delaying appropriate management. Unlike SCC, SEDC exhibits biphasic differentiation, deep infiltration, and a high rate of perineural invasion, contributing to significant morbidity and poor long-term outcomes. Given the absence of standardized treatment protocols, managing SEDC remains a challenge. Case Presentation: We report an unusual case of an 80-year-old female presenting with progressive numbness, nasal deviation, and a subcutaneous indurated lesion in the left nasofacial region. The early neurological symptoms were an atypical feature, suggesting perineural invasion (PNI) before visible tumor progression. Initial histopathologic evaluation was inconclusive, raising suspicion of SCC, necessitating immunohistochemical analysis, which confirmed ductal differentiation, leading to the final diagnosis of SEDC. The patient underwent radical resection with intraoperative margin assessment (Mohs micrographic surgery; MMS) followed by adjuvant radiotherapy (62 Gy/31 fractions) due to high-risk features, including perineural and perivascular invasion. Despite initial disease control, a local recurrence involving the left orbit and nasal bone occurred 20 months postoperatively, demonstrating the aggressive nature of SEDC despite clear surgical margins and adjuvant therapy. Due to disease progression and refusal of further surgery, only palliative care was provided. During follow-up, the patient contracted COVID-19, further complicating her clinical status and contributing to her demise. While COVID-19 was not directly linked to SEDC progression, its impact on patient management was significant. Conclusions: This case underscores the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of SEDC, emphasizing the need for early suspicion, extensive histopathologic assessment, and aggressive multimodal treatment. The importance of multidisciplinary management-particularly in elderly and immunocompromised patients-and long-term surveillance due to high recurrence risk and PNI is crucial.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
Female
Aged, 80 and over
*Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/diagnosis/pathology
*Carcinoma, Ductal/diagnosis/pathology
Face/pathology
*Sweat Gland Neoplasms/diagnosis/pathology
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
The Bright Future of mRNA as a Therapeutic Molecule.
Genes, 16(4):.
The rapid success of messenger (m) RNA vaccines against COVID-19 has pushed the mRNA to the forefront of drug research. The promise of mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines in other areas is not new but is now emerging stronger. We review basic concepts, key historical aspects, and recent research on mRNA as a therapeutic molecule to fight infectious diseases and cancer. We also show a current patent perspective of this field. Altogether, we describe that the technology of mRNA as a therapeutic molecule is a rapidly moving field aiming for a bright future.
Additional Links: PMID-40282336
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40282336,
year = {2025},
author = {Vélez, DE and Torres, BL and Hernández, G},
title = {The Bright Future of mRNA as a Therapeutic Molecule.},
journal = {Genes},
volume = {16},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40282336},
issn = {2073-4425},
support = {Intramural funding program//Instituto Nacional de Cancerología/ ; Program Estancias posdoctorales por México para la Formación y Consolidación de las y los Investigadores por México, 2022.//Consejo Nacional de Humanidades, Ciencia y Tecnología (CONHACyT)/ ; PhD Fellowship//CONHACyT/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Neoplasms/therapy ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The rapid success of messenger (m) RNA vaccines against COVID-19 has pushed the mRNA to the forefront of drug research. The promise of mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines in other areas is not new but is now emerging stronger. We review basic concepts, key historical aspects, and recent research on mRNA as a therapeutic molecule to fight infectious diseases and cancer. We also show a current patent perspective of this field. Altogether, we describe that the technology of mRNA as a therapeutic molecule is a rapidly moving field aiming for a bright future.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
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Humans
*RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Neoplasms/therapy
Animals
RevDate: 2025-04-26
A Review of Temporal Self-Perceptions Among Emerging Adults: The Significance of Demographics and a Global Crisis on Psychological and Achievement Benefits.
Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland), 15(4):.
In industrialized societies, emerging adulthood is a unique developmental stage between adolescence and adulthood (i.e., 18 to 29 years old), where individuals continuously encounter decisions that have important consequences that unfold over time (i.e., intertemporal decisions). The present review paper had three aims. The first aim was to provide a brief overview of emerging adulthood as a developmental stage and present a rationale for the importance of understanding the relationship between temporal self-perceptions and longitudinal outcomes in emerging adults. The second aim was to review evidence for a proposed model demonstrating the connection between three domains of temporal self-perceptions-future self-perceptions, longitudinal changes in future self-perceptions, and continuity between temporal selves (i.e., past-to-future)-, self-regulatory processes, and positive downstream consequences (e.g., psychological well-being and academic success) in emerging adults. Specifically, this targeted review sought to highlight research exploring the longitudinal processes in these relationships (e.g., changes in temporal self-perceptions over time and the relationship between temporal self-perceptions and longitudinal outcomes) and testing how these relationships function amidst a large-scale challenge (i.e., the COVID-19 pandemic). Given the heterogeneity of emerging adults as a demographic group, the third aim was to review research exploring demographic factors (e.g., gender and socioeconomic status) as a potential moderator of these relationships. The review provided support for the proposed model, highlighting the importance of perceptions of temporal selves in predicting a range of positive long-term outcomes, including self-regulatory processes, psychological well-being, and achievement. Additionally, the review demonstrated preliminary support for the significance of crucial demographic factors (e.g., gender and socioeconomic status) in understanding the nature of these relationships in emerging adults. Finally, the review suggests future directions to extend this growing literature and broaden the understanding of these relationships.
Additional Links: PMID-40282092
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@article {pmid40282092,
year = {2025},
author = {McMichael, SL and Kwan, VSY},
title = {A Review of Temporal Self-Perceptions Among Emerging Adults: The Significance of Demographics and a Global Crisis on Psychological and Achievement Benefits.},
journal = {Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40282092},
issn = {2076-328X},
abstract = {In industrialized societies, emerging adulthood is a unique developmental stage between adolescence and adulthood (i.e., 18 to 29 years old), where individuals continuously encounter decisions that have important consequences that unfold over time (i.e., intertemporal decisions). The present review paper had three aims. The first aim was to provide a brief overview of emerging adulthood as a developmental stage and present a rationale for the importance of understanding the relationship between temporal self-perceptions and longitudinal outcomes in emerging adults. The second aim was to review evidence for a proposed model demonstrating the connection between three domains of temporal self-perceptions-future self-perceptions, longitudinal changes in future self-perceptions, and continuity between temporal selves (i.e., past-to-future)-, self-regulatory processes, and positive downstream consequences (e.g., psychological well-being and academic success) in emerging adults. Specifically, this targeted review sought to highlight research exploring the longitudinal processes in these relationships (e.g., changes in temporal self-perceptions over time and the relationship between temporal self-perceptions and longitudinal outcomes) and testing how these relationships function amidst a large-scale challenge (i.e., the COVID-19 pandemic). Given the heterogeneity of emerging adults as a demographic group, the third aim was to review research exploring demographic factors (e.g., gender and socioeconomic status) as a potential moderator of these relationships. The review provided support for the proposed model, highlighting the importance of perceptions of temporal selves in predicting a range of positive long-term outcomes, including self-regulatory processes, psychological well-being, and achievement. Additionally, the review demonstrated preliminary support for the significance of crucial demographic factors (e.g., gender and socioeconomic status) in understanding the nature of these relationships in emerging adults. Finally, the review suggests future directions to extend this growing literature and broaden the understanding of these relationships.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-28
CmpDate: 2025-04-28
Thrombophilia, hypofibrinolysis and osteonecrosis.
Orthopadie (Heidelberg, Germany), 54(5):376-385.
Anticoagulation in most patients with familial thrombophilia-hypofibrinolysis and primary osteonecrosis (ON) before hip or knee collapse relieves pain, prevents joint collapse and usually averts the need for joint replacement but is not successful in secondary ON or if started after joint collapse. Anticoagulation in Perthes disease and in ON acutely appearing in post-COVID patients, particularly when factor V Leiden is present, may be valuable as an approach to prevent the otherwise high likelihood of subsequent joint failure. Anticoagulation in primary ON with concurrent thrombophilia-hypofibrinolysis should be considered within the treatment spectrum of ON.
Additional Links: PMID-39969562
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Citation:
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@article {pmid39969562,
year = {2025},
author = {Glueck, CJ},
title = {Thrombophilia, hypofibrinolysis and osteonecrosis.},
journal = {Orthopadie (Heidelberg, Germany)},
volume = {54},
number = {5},
pages = {376-385},
pmid = {39969562},
issn = {2731-7153},
mesh = {Humans ; *Osteonecrosis/complications/drug therapy ; *Thrombophilia/complications/drug therapy ; *Anticoagulants/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/complications ; Fibrinolysis ; Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease/drug therapy/complications ; Factor V ; },
abstract = {Anticoagulation in most patients with familial thrombophilia-hypofibrinolysis and primary osteonecrosis (ON) before hip or knee collapse relieves pain, prevents joint collapse and usually averts the need for joint replacement but is not successful in secondary ON or if started after joint collapse. Anticoagulation in Perthes disease and in ON acutely appearing in post-COVID patients, particularly when factor V Leiden is present, may be valuable as an approach to prevent the otherwise high likelihood of subsequent joint failure. Anticoagulation in primary ON with concurrent thrombophilia-hypofibrinolysis should be considered within the treatment spectrum of ON.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Osteonecrosis/complications/drug therapy
*Thrombophilia/complications/drug therapy
*Anticoagulants/therapeutic use
COVID-19/complications
Fibrinolysis
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease/drug therapy/complications
Factor V
RevDate: 2025-04-26
Mathematical Contact Tracing Models for the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of the Literature.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(8): pii:healthcare13080935.
Background: Contact tracing (CT) is a primary means of controlling infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in the early months of the pandemic. Objectives: This work is a systematic review of mathematical models used during the COVID-19 pandemic that explicitly parameterise CT as a potential mitigator of the effects of the pandemic. Methods: This review is registered in PROSPERO. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. Two reviewers independently selected the title/abstract, full text, data extraction, and risk of bias. Disagreements were resolved through discussion. The characteristics of the studies and mathematical models were collected from each study. Results: A total of 53 articles out of 2101 were included. The modelling of the COVID-19 pandemic was the main objective of 23 studies, while the remaining articles evaluated the forecast transmission of COVID-19. Most studies used compartmental models to simulate COVID-19 transmission (26, 49.1%), while others used agent-based (16, 34%), branching processes (5, 9.4%), or other mathematical models (6). Most studies applying compartmental models consider CT in a separate compartment. Quarantine and basic reproduction numbers were also considered in the models. The quality assessment scores ranged from 13 to 26 of 28. Conclusions: Despite the significant heterogeneity in the models and the assumptions on the relevant model parameters, this systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the models proposed to evaluate the COVID-19 pandemic, including non-pharmaceutical public health interventions such as CT. Prospero Registration: CRD42022359060.
Additional Links: PMID-40281884
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40281884,
year = {2025},
author = {Ocagli, H and Brigiari, G and Marcolin, E and Mongillo, M and Tonon, M and Da Re, F and Gentili, D and Michieletto, F and Russo, F and Gregori, D},
title = {Mathematical Contact Tracing Models for the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13080935},
pmid = {40281884},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {The study was conducted under the scope of the CCM (Centre for Diseases Control) 2020 Project "Modelli organizzativi per l'efficientamento delle attività di contact tracing" (Organizational models to improve the efficiency of contact tracing activities)//Italian Ministry of Health./ ; },
abstract = {Background: Contact tracing (CT) is a primary means of controlling infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in the early months of the pandemic. Objectives: This work is a systematic review of mathematical models used during the COVID-19 pandemic that explicitly parameterise CT as a potential mitigator of the effects of the pandemic. Methods: This review is registered in PROSPERO. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. Two reviewers independently selected the title/abstract, full text, data extraction, and risk of bias. Disagreements were resolved through discussion. The characteristics of the studies and mathematical models were collected from each study. Results: A total of 53 articles out of 2101 were included. The modelling of the COVID-19 pandemic was the main objective of 23 studies, while the remaining articles evaluated the forecast transmission of COVID-19. Most studies used compartmental models to simulate COVID-19 transmission (26, 49.1%), while others used agent-based (16, 34%), branching processes (5, 9.4%), or other mathematical models (6). Most studies applying compartmental models consider CT in a separate compartment. Quarantine and basic reproduction numbers were also considered in the models. The quality assessment scores ranged from 13 to 26 of 28. Conclusions: Despite the significant heterogeneity in the models and the assumptions on the relevant model parameters, this systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the models proposed to evaluate the COVID-19 pandemic, including non-pharmaceutical public health interventions such as CT. Prospero Registration: CRD42022359060.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
Global Research Trends, Hotspots, Impacts, and Emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Health and Medicine: A 25-Year Bibliometric Analysis.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(8): pii:healthcare13080892.
Background/Objectives: The increasing application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in health and medicine has attracted a great deal of research interest in recent decades. This study aims to provide a global and historical picture of research concerning AI and ML in health and medicine. Methods: We used the Scopus database for searching and extracted articles published between 2000 and 2024. Then, we generated information about productivity, citations, collaboration, most impactful research topics, emerging research topics, and author keywords using Microsoft Excel 365 and VOSviewer software (version 1.6.20). Results: We retrieved a total of 22,113 research articles, with a notable surge in research activity in recent years. Core journals were Scientific Reports and IEEE Access, and core institutions included Harvard Medical School and the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, while core countries comprised the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia. Citation trends indicated substantial growth and recognition of AI's and ML impact on health and medicine. Frequent author keywords identified key research hotspots, including specific diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, COVID-19, and diabetes. The author keyword analysis identified "deep learning", "convolutional neural network", and "classification" as dominant research themes. Conclusions: AI's transformative potential in AI and ML in health and medicine holds promise for improving global health outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-40281841
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40281841,
year = {2025},
author = {Dalky, A and Altawalbih, M and Alshanik, F and Khasawneh, RA and Tawalbeh, R and Al-Dekah, AM and Alrawashdeh, A and Quran, TO and ALBashtawy, M},
title = {Global Research Trends, Hotspots, Impacts, and Emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Health and Medicine: A 25-Year Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13080892},
pmid = {40281841},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {20240512//Deanship of Research at Jordan University of Science and Technology/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The increasing application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in health and medicine has attracted a great deal of research interest in recent decades. This study aims to provide a global and historical picture of research concerning AI and ML in health and medicine. Methods: We used the Scopus database for searching and extracted articles published between 2000 and 2024. Then, we generated information about productivity, citations, collaboration, most impactful research topics, emerging research topics, and author keywords using Microsoft Excel 365 and VOSviewer software (version 1.6.20). Results: We retrieved a total of 22,113 research articles, with a notable surge in research activity in recent years. Core journals were Scientific Reports and IEEE Access, and core institutions included Harvard Medical School and the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, while core countries comprised the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia. Citation trends indicated substantial growth and recognition of AI's and ML impact on health and medicine. Frequent author keywords identified key research hotspots, including specific diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, COVID-19, and diabetes. The author keyword analysis identified "deep learning", "convolutional neural network", and "classification" as dominant research themes. Conclusions: AI's transformative potential in AI and ML in health and medicine holds promise for improving global health outcomes.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-27
CmpDate: 2025-04-27
Social isolation and loneliness in non-communicable chronic diseases: Impact of COVID-19 pandemic, population aging and technological progress.
Nutrition, metabolism, and cardiovascular diseases : NMCD, 35(6):104015.
AIMS: Social isolation and loneliness have increasingly emerged as closely linked to onset and progression of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of addressing social isolation in the prevention and management of NCDs such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in order to hinder their development and improve their outcomes.
DATA SYNTHESIS: Social isolation and loneliness affect a significant portion of the older adult population, due to decrease in social interactions, chronic illnesses and sensory impairments. However, many other vulnerable populations may experience social isolation because of psychiatric or disabling health conditions, substances abuse, low socioeconomic status, unemployment and belonging to ethnic or marginalized minorities. The unprecedented COVID-19-related social distancing can be taken as a proof-of-concept of the detrimental role of poor interactions in NCDs prevention and management not only at individual level but also in a public health perspective. Indeed, social isolation has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices, disrupted sleep quality, low utilization of healthcare, preventive services and adherence to treatments. Underlying mechanisms like inflammation and stress responses may also play a role in the association between social isolation and worse NCDs outcomes.
CONCLUSIONS: Social isolation negatively impacts on the development, progression and management of NCDs. Effective interventions for social isolation should address both societal factors and healthcare-related needs. To counteract the detrimental effects of social distancing during COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telemedicine was implemented. However, telemedicine is not always available, and legislative and age-related barriers persist.
Additional Links: PMID-40189996
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40189996,
year = {2025},
author = {Guglielmi, V and Colangeli, L and Parrotta, ME and Ciammariconi, A and Milani, I and D'Adamo, M and Sbraccia, P and Capoccia, D},
title = {Social isolation and loneliness in non-communicable chronic diseases: Impact of COVID-19 pandemic, population aging and technological progress.},
journal = {Nutrition, metabolism, and cardiovascular diseases : NMCD},
volume = {35},
number = {6},
pages = {104015},
doi = {10.1016/j.numecd.2025.104015},
pmid = {40189996},
issn = {1590-3729},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Social Isolation/psychology ; *Loneliness/psychology ; *Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/psychology/therapy ; *Aging/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; Chronic Disease ; Pandemics ; Aged ; },
abstract = {AIMS: Social isolation and loneliness have increasingly emerged as closely linked to onset and progression of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of addressing social isolation in the prevention and management of NCDs such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in order to hinder their development and improve their outcomes.
DATA SYNTHESIS: Social isolation and loneliness affect a significant portion of the older adult population, due to decrease in social interactions, chronic illnesses and sensory impairments. However, many other vulnerable populations may experience social isolation because of psychiatric or disabling health conditions, substances abuse, low socioeconomic status, unemployment and belonging to ethnic or marginalized minorities. The unprecedented COVID-19-related social distancing can be taken as a proof-of-concept of the detrimental role of poor interactions in NCDs prevention and management not only at individual level but also in a public health perspective. Indeed, social isolation has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices, disrupted sleep quality, low utilization of healthcare, preventive services and adherence to treatments. Underlying mechanisms like inflammation and stress responses may also play a role in the association between social isolation and worse NCDs outcomes.
CONCLUSIONS: Social isolation negatively impacts on the development, progression and management of NCDs. Effective interventions for social isolation should address both societal factors and healthcare-related needs. To counteract the detrimental effects of social distancing during COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telemedicine was implemented. However, telemedicine is not always available, and legislative and age-related barriers persist.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Social Isolation/psychology
*Loneliness/psychology
*Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/psychology/therapy
*Aging/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
Chronic Disease
Pandemics
Aged
RevDate: 2025-04-27
CmpDate: 2025-04-27
Causes of and risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Lancet (London, England), 405(10488):1468-1480.
BACKGROUND: An understanding of the causes of postpartum haemorrhage is needed to provide appropriate treatment and services. Knowledge of the risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage can help address modifiable risk factors. We did a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify and quantify the various causes and risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage.
METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we did a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for cohort studies of postpartum haemorrhage from Jan 1, 1960, to Nov 30, 2024 without language restrictions. At least two authors independently undertook study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. Population-based cohort studies available in English were eligible. Rates of postpartum haemorrhage causes as well as crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for risk factors were pooled using a random-effects model. Risk factors were classified as having weak, moderate, or strong association based on the pooled ORs: weak (OR >1 to 1·5), moderate (OR >1·5 to 2), and strong (OR >2). This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023479686.
FINDINGS: We synthesised data from 327 studies, including 847 413 451 women with no restriction on age, race, or ethnicity. Most studies were of high methodological quality. The pooled rates of the five commonly reported causes of postpartum haemorrhage were uterine atony (70·6% [95% CI 63·9-77·3]; n=834 707 women, 14 studies), genital tract trauma (16·9% [9·3-24·6]; n=18 449 women, six studies), retained placenta (16·4% [12·3-20·5]; n=235 021 women, nine studies), abnormal placentation (3·9% [0·1-7·6]; n=29 638 women, two studies), and coagulopathy (2·7% [0·8-4·5]; n=236 261, nine studies). The pooled rate of women with multiple postpartum haemorrhage causes was 7·8% (95% CI 4·7-10·8; n=666, two studies). Risk factors with a strong association with postpartum haemorrhage included anaemia, previous postpartum haemorrhage, caesarean birth, female genital mutilation, sepsis, no antenatal care, multiple pregnancy, placenta praevia, assisted reproductive technology use, macrosomia with a birthweight of more than 4500 g, and shoulder dystocia. Risk factors with moderate association with postpartum haemorrhage included BMI ≥30 kg/m[2], COVID-19 infection, gestational diabetes, polyhydramnios, pre-eclampsia, and antepartum haemorrhage. Risk factors with weak association with postpartum haemorrhage included Black and Asian ethnicity, BMI 25-29·9 kg/m[2], asthma, thrombocytopenia, uterine fibroids, antidepressant use, induction of labour, instrumental birth, and premature rupture of membranes.
INTERPRETATION: The finding that uterine atony is the commonest cause of postpartum haemorrhage supports the WHO recommendation for all women giving birth to be given prophylactic uterotonics. Knowledge of risk factors with a strong association with postpartum haemorrhage can help to identify women at high risk of postpartum haemorrhage who could benefit from enhanced prophylaxis and treatment. The importance of multiple concurrent causes of postpartum haemorrhage supports the use of treatment bundles.
FUNDING: Gates Foundation.
Additional Links: PMID-40188841
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@article {pmid40188841,
year = {2025},
author = {Yunas, I and Islam, MA and Sindhu, KN and Devall, AJ and Podesek, M and Alam, SS and Kundu, S and Mammoliti, KM and Aswat, A and Price, MJ and Zamora, J and Oladapo, OT and Gallos, I and Coomarasamy, A},
title = {Causes of and risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Lancet (London, England)},
volume = {405},
number = {10488},
pages = {1468-1480},
doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00448-9},
pmid = {40188841},
issn = {1474-547X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Postpartum Hemorrhage/etiology/epidemiology ; Female ; Risk Factors ; Pregnancy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: An understanding of the causes of postpartum haemorrhage is needed to provide appropriate treatment and services. Knowledge of the risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage can help address modifiable risk factors. We did a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify and quantify the various causes and risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage.
METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we did a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for cohort studies of postpartum haemorrhage from Jan 1, 1960, to Nov 30, 2024 without language restrictions. At least two authors independently undertook study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. Population-based cohort studies available in English were eligible. Rates of postpartum haemorrhage causes as well as crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for risk factors were pooled using a random-effects model. Risk factors were classified as having weak, moderate, or strong association based on the pooled ORs: weak (OR >1 to 1·5), moderate (OR >1·5 to 2), and strong (OR >2). This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023479686.
FINDINGS: We synthesised data from 327 studies, including 847 413 451 women with no restriction on age, race, or ethnicity. Most studies were of high methodological quality. The pooled rates of the five commonly reported causes of postpartum haemorrhage were uterine atony (70·6% [95% CI 63·9-77·3]; n=834 707 women, 14 studies), genital tract trauma (16·9% [9·3-24·6]; n=18 449 women, six studies), retained placenta (16·4% [12·3-20·5]; n=235 021 women, nine studies), abnormal placentation (3·9% [0·1-7·6]; n=29 638 women, two studies), and coagulopathy (2·7% [0·8-4·5]; n=236 261, nine studies). The pooled rate of women with multiple postpartum haemorrhage causes was 7·8% (95% CI 4·7-10·8; n=666, two studies). Risk factors with a strong association with postpartum haemorrhage included anaemia, previous postpartum haemorrhage, caesarean birth, female genital mutilation, sepsis, no antenatal care, multiple pregnancy, placenta praevia, assisted reproductive technology use, macrosomia with a birthweight of more than 4500 g, and shoulder dystocia. Risk factors with moderate association with postpartum haemorrhage included BMI ≥30 kg/m[2], COVID-19 infection, gestational diabetes, polyhydramnios, pre-eclampsia, and antepartum haemorrhage. Risk factors with weak association with postpartum haemorrhage included Black and Asian ethnicity, BMI 25-29·9 kg/m[2], asthma, thrombocytopenia, uterine fibroids, antidepressant use, induction of labour, instrumental birth, and premature rupture of membranes.
INTERPRETATION: The finding that uterine atony is the commonest cause of postpartum haemorrhage supports the WHO recommendation for all women giving birth to be given prophylactic uterotonics. Knowledge of risk factors with a strong association with postpartum haemorrhage can help to identify women at high risk of postpartum haemorrhage who could benefit from enhanced prophylaxis and treatment. The importance of multiple concurrent causes of postpartum haemorrhage supports the use of treatment bundles.
FUNDING: Gates Foundation.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Postpartum Hemorrhage/etiology/epidemiology
Female
Risk Factors
Pregnancy
RevDate: 2025-04-27
CmpDate: 2025-04-27
Learning from post-COVID-19 condition for epidemic preparedness: a variable catalogue for future post-acute infection syndromes.
Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 31(3):380-388.
SCOPE: The emergence of post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) after SARS-CoV-2 infection underscores the critical need for preparedness in addressing future post-acute infection syndromes (PAIS), particularly those linked to epidemic outbreaks. The lack of standardized clinical and epidemiological data during the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly hindered timely diagnosis and effective treatment of PCC, highlighting the necessity of pre-emptively standardizing data collection in clinical studies to better define and manage future PAIS. In response, the Cohort Coordination Board, a consortium of European-funded COVID-19 research projects, has reviewed data from PCC studies conducted by its members. This paper leverages the Cohort Coordination Board's expertise to propose a standardized catalogue of variables, informed by the lessons learned during the pandemic, intended for immediate use in the design of future observational studies and clinical trials for emerging infections of epidemic potential.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The early implementation of standardized data collection, facilitated by the PAIS data catalogue, is essential for accelerating the identification and management of PAIS in future epidemics. This approach will enable more precise syndrome definitions, expedite diagnostic processes, and optimize treatment strategies, while also supporting long-term follow-up of affected individuals. The availability of harmonized data collection protocols will enhance preparedness across European and international cohort studies, and trials enabling a prompt and coordinated response, as well as more efficient resource allocation, in the event of emerging infections and associated PAIS.
Additional Links: PMID-39662824
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39662824,
year = {2025},
author = {Górska, A and Canziani, LM and Rinaldi, E and Pana, ZD and Beale, S and Bai, F and Boxma-de Klerk, BM and de Bruijn, S and Donà, D and Ekkelenkamp, MB and Incardona, F and Mallon, P and Marchetti, GC and Puhan, M and Riva, A and Simensen, VC and Vaillant, M and van der Zalm, MM and van Kuijk, SMJ and Wingerden, SV and Judd, A and Tacconelli, E and Peñalvo, JL},
title = {Learning from post-COVID-19 condition for epidemic preparedness: a variable catalogue for future post-acute infection syndromes.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {380-388},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2024.12.001},
pmid = {39662824},
issn = {1469-0691},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Europe/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {SCOPE: The emergence of post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) after SARS-CoV-2 infection underscores the critical need for preparedness in addressing future post-acute infection syndromes (PAIS), particularly those linked to epidemic outbreaks. The lack of standardized clinical and epidemiological data during the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly hindered timely diagnosis and effective treatment of PCC, highlighting the necessity of pre-emptively standardizing data collection in clinical studies to better define and manage future PAIS. In response, the Cohort Coordination Board, a consortium of European-funded COVID-19 research projects, has reviewed data from PCC studies conducted by its members. This paper leverages the Cohort Coordination Board's expertise to propose a standardized catalogue of variables, informed by the lessons learned during the pandemic, intended for immediate use in the design of future observational studies and clinical trials for emerging infections of epidemic potential.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The early implementation of standardized data collection, facilitated by the PAIS data catalogue, is essential for accelerating the identification and management of PAIS in future epidemics. This approach will enable more precise syndrome definitions, expedite diagnostic processes, and optimize treatment strategies, while also supporting long-term follow-up of affected individuals. The availability of harmonized data collection protocols will enhance preparedness across European and international cohort studies, and trials enabling a prompt and coordinated response, as well as more efficient resource allocation, in the event of emerging infections and associated PAIS.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Europe/epidemiology
Pandemics
Pandemic Preparedness
RevDate: 2025-04-26
Digital Healthcare Innovative Services in Times of Crisis: A Literature Review.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(8): pii:healthcare13080889.
Objectives: The transformation of healthcare systems during crises, particularly demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizes the urgent need for effective research methodologies to evaluate digital healthcare innovations. These methodologies are essential in addressing the rapid shift in healthcare service delivery modalities, responding to unprecedented challenges that have revealed both opportunities and barriers within the digital ecosystem. Methods: For this review, research was carried out on the Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to locate articles published from 2015 to 2024, using the search terms digital health, digital technologies, management implications, and digital platforms. The inclusion criteria referred to studies that were directly related to the topic, available in the English language, and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. The exclusion parameters were as follows: (a) articles not relevant to the topic as defined in the purpose of the review, (b) systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and (c) articles published in a language other than English. Results: Key findings indicate that, while digital health technologies have the potential to mitigate healthcare disparities, they often exacerbate existing inequities, especially among vulnerable populations lacking consistent access to technology. Furthermore, the shift towards digital platforms has revealed significant gaps in workforce training and support, which are essential for effective implementation. Conclusions: This review underscores the financial implications, with expenditures rising significantly due to the increased use of digital services, reflecting a broader trend noted in studies of related health conditions. Moreover, discussions on public health governance suggest a critical need for democratic frameworks to support such digital transformations effectively.
Additional Links: PMID-40281838
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40281838,
year = {2025},
author = {Anastasiadou, O and Tsipouras, M and Mpogiatzidis, P and Angelidis, P},
title = {Digital Healthcare Innovative Services in Times of Crisis: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13080889},
pmid = {40281838},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Objectives: The transformation of healthcare systems during crises, particularly demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizes the urgent need for effective research methodologies to evaluate digital healthcare innovations. These methodologies are essential in addressing the rapid shift in healthcare service delivery modalities, responding to unprecedented challenges that have revealed both opportunities and barriers within the digital ecosystem. Methods: For this review, research was carried out on the Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to locate articles published from 2015 to 2024, using the search terms digital health, digital technologies, management implications, and digital platforms. The inclusion criteria referred to studies that were directly related to the topic, available in the English language, and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. The exclusion parameters were as follows: (a) articles not relevant to the topic as defined in the purpose of the review, (b) systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and (c) articles published in a language other than English. Results: Key findings indicate that, while digital health technologies have the potential to mitigate healthcare disparities, they often exacerbate existing inequities, especially among vulnerable populations lacking consistent access to technology. Furthermore, the shift towards digital platforms has revealed significant gaps in workforce training and support, which are essential for effective implementation. Conclusions: This review underscores the financial implications, with expenditures rising significantly due to the increased use of digital services, reflecting a broader trend noted in studies of related health conditions. Moreover, discussions on public health governance suggest a critical need for democratic frameworks to support such digital transformations effectively.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technologies Transforming Contemporary Pharmaceutical Research.
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 12(4): pii:bioengineering12040363.
One area of study within machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) seeks to create computer programs with intelligence that can mimic human focal processes in order to produce results. This technique includes data collection, effective data usage system development, conclusion illustration, and arrangements. Analysis algorithms that are learning to mimic human cognitive activities are the most widespread application of AI. Artificial intelligence (AI) studies have proliferated, and the field is quickly beginning to understand its potential impact on medical services and investigation. This review delves deeper into the pros and cons of AI across the healthcare and pharmaceutical research industries. Research and review articles published throughout the last few years were selected from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, using search terms like 'artificial intelligence', 'drug discovery', 'pharmacy research', 'clinical trial', etc. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to diagnose diseases, treat patients digitally, find new drugs, and predict when outbreaks or pandemics may occur. In artificial intelligence, neural networks and deep learning are some of the most popular tools; in clinical research, Bayesian non-parametric approaches hold promise for better results, while smartphones and the processing of natural languages are employed in recognizing patients and trial monitoring. Seasonal flu, Ebola, Zika, COVID-19, tuberculosis, and outbreak predictions were made using deep computation and artificial intelligence. The academic world is hopeful that AI development will lead to more efficient and less expensive medical and pharmaceutical investigations and better public services.
Additional Links: PMID-40281723
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40281723,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, P and Chaudhary, B and Arya, P and Chauhan, R and Devi, S and Parejiya, PB and Gupta, MM},
title = {Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technologies Transforming Contemporary Pharmaceutical Research.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering12040363},
pmid = {40281723},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {One area of study within machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) seeks to create computer programs with intelligence that can mimic human focal processes in order to produce results. This technique includes data collection, effective data usage system development, conclusion illustration, and arrangements. Analysis algorithms that are learning to mimic human cognitive activities are the most widespread application of AI. Artificial intelligence (AI) studies have proliferated, and the field is quickly beginning to understand its potential impact on medical services and investigation. This review delves deeper into the pros and cons of AI across the healthcare and pharmaceutical research industries. Research and review articles published throughout the last few years were selected from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, using search terms like 'artificial intelligence', 'drug discovery', 'pharmacy research', 'clinical trial', etc. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to diagnose diseases, treat patients digitally, find new drugs, and predict when outbreaks or pandemics may occur. In artificial intelligence, neural networks and deep learning are some of the most popular tools; in clinical research, Bayesian non-parametric approaches hold promise for better results, while smartphones and the processing of natural languages are employed in recognizing patients and trial monitoring. Seasonal flu, Ebola, Zika, COVID-19, tuberculosis, and outbreak predictions were made using deep computation and artificial intelligence. The academic world is hopeful that AI development will lead to more efficient and less expensive medical and pharmaceutical investigations and better public services.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-25
Unleashing the power of nucleic acid therapeutics through efficient cytosolic delivery.
Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society pii:S0168-3659(25)00394-3 [Epub ahead of print].
The approval of siRNA-based therapy for liver disease in 2018 and the subsequent success of mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have inaugurated a new era in nucleic acid-based therapeutics. These breakthroughs underscore the transformative potential of nucleic acid-based therapeutics, which modulate gene function, correct genetic defects, or disrupt pathological molecular processes. Such advances represent a paradigm shift in modern medicine. Despite their immense promise, the clinical realization of nucleic acid-based therapies is fundamentally constrained by endosomal entrapment, a critical barrier that significantly limits therapeutic efficacy. Overcoming this obstacle is imperative to fully unlock the potential of these therapies. Designing effective strategies to facilitate the escape of nucleic acids from endosomes-or bypassing endosomal pathways altogether-remains a central challenge in the field. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of current approaches aimed at enhancing endosomal escape or circumventing endosomal entrapment. By highlighting both the successes and limitations of these strategies, we aim to offer valuable insights to inform the development of more efficient and clinically viable nucleic acid delivery systems, advancing the future of molecular medicine.
Additional Links: PMID-40280238
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40280238,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, CTG and Meng, F},
title = {Unleashing the power of nucleic acid therapeutics through efficient cytosolic delivery.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {113774},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.113774},
pmid = {40280238},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {The approval of siRNA-based therapy for liver disease in 2018 and the subsequent success of mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have inaugurated a new era in nucleic acid-based therapeutics. These breakthroughs underscore the transformative potential of nucleic acid-based therapeutics, which modulate gene function, correct genetic defects, or disrupt pathological molecular processes. Such advances represent a paradigm shift in modern medicine. Despite their immense promise, the clinical realization of nucleic acid-based therapies is fundamentally constrained by endosomal entrapment, a critical barrier that significantly limits therapeutic efficacy. Overcoming this obstacle is imperative to fully unlock the potential of these therapies. Designing effective strategies to facilitate the escape of nucleic acids from endosomes-or bypassing endosomal pathways altogether-remains a central challenge in the field. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of current approaches aimed at enhancing endosomal escape or circumventing endosomal entrapment. By highlighting both the successes and limitations of these strategies, we aim to offer valuable insights to inform the development of more efficient and clinically viable nucleic acid delivery systems, advancing the future of molecular medicine.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-25
CmpDate: 2025-04-26
SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines and Multiple Sclerosis: An Update.
Neurology(R) neuroimmunology & neuroinflammation, 12(3):e200393.
The highly contagious zoonosis coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, and has led to a global health crisis with nearly 777 million confirmed infections and over 7 million deaths worldwide by November 10, 2024.[1-3] Over time, various variants emerged, with Omicron and its sublines dominating the world over the past 3 years.[4] In addition, there is increasing evidence regarding the immune response of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, especially for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving disease-modifying therapies. Hence, with this review, we aim to provide an updated overview and recommendations for clinical practice regarding MS and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, including efficacy and safety, SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccine hesitancy, and the immune response under treatment with respective disease-modifying therapies.
Additional Links: PMID-40279527
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40279527,
year = {2025},
author = {Monschein, T and Zrzavy, T and Rommer, PS and Meuth, SG and Chan, A and Berger, T and Hartung, HP},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines and Multiple Sclerosis: An Update.},
journal = {Neurology(R) neuroimmunology & neuroinflammation},
volume = {12},
number = {3},
pages = {e200393},
doi = {10.1212/NXI.0000000000200393},
pmid = {40279527},
issn = {2332-7812},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {The highly contagious zoonosis coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, and has led to a global health crisis with nearly 777 million confirmed infections and over 7 million deaths worldwide by November 10, 2024.[1-3] Over time, various variants emerged, with Omicron and its sublines dominating the world over the past 3 years.[4] In addition, there is increasing evidence regarding the immune response of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, especially for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving disease-modifying therapies. Hence, with this review, we aim to provide an updated overview and recommendations for clinical practice regarding MS and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, including efficacy and safety, SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccine hesitancy, and the immune response under treatment with respective disease-modifying therapies.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
RevDate: 2025-04-26
A Review on the Prevalence and Treatment of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Hospital Wastewater.
Toxics, 13(4):.
Antibiotic resistance is a global environmental and health threat. Approximately 4.95 million deaths were associated with antibiotic resistance in 2019, including 1.27 million deaths that were directly attributable to bacterial antimicrobial resistance. Hospital wastewater is one of the key sources for the spread of clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) into the environment. Understanding the current situation of ARGs in hospital wastewater is of great significance. Here, we review the prevalence of ARGs and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in hospital wastewater and wastewater from other places and the treatment methods used. We further discuss the intersection between ARGs and COVID-19 during the pandemic. This review highlights the issues associated with the dissemination of critical ARGs from hospital wastewater into the environment. It is imperative to implement more effective processes for hospital wastewater treatment to eliminate ARGs, particularly during the current long COVID-19 period.
Additional Links: PMID-40278579
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40278579,
year = {2025},
author = {Lan, L and Wang, Y and Chen, Y and Wang, T and Zhang, J and Tan, B},
title = {A Review on the Prevalence and Treatment of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Hospital Wastewater.},
journal = {Toxics},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278579},
issn = {2305-6304},
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance is a global environmental and health threat. Approximately 4.95 million deaths were associated with antibiotic resistance in 2019, including 1.27 million deaths that were directly attributable to bacterial antimicrobial resistance. Hospital wastewater is one of the key sources for the spread of clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) into the environment. Understanding the current situation of ARGs in hospital wastewater is of great significance. Here, we review the prevalence of ARGs and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in hospital wastewater and wastewater from other places and the treatment methods used. We further discuss the intersection between ARGs and COVID-19 during the pandemic. This review highlights the issues associated with the dissemination of critical ARGs from hospital wastewater into the environment. It is imperative to implement more effective processes for hospital wastewater treatment to eliminate ARGs, particularly during the current long COVID-19 period.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
Do We Need Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Nanoparticles in Face Masks?.
Toxics, 13(4):.
The use of face masks has proven to be an effective preventive measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, concerns have emerged regarding the safety of metal (nano)particles incorporated into face masks for antimicrobial purposes. Specifically, this review examines the risks associated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), which are classified as a possible human carcinogen. The inhalation of TiO2 NPs can cause multiple adverse effects, including oxidative stress, pulmonary inflammation, histopathological changes, and (secondary) genotoxicity. Different aspects are discussed, such as the composition and filtration efficiency of face masks, the antimicrobial mode of action and effectiveness of various metals, and the hazards of TiO2 NPs to human health, including exposure limits. A conservative risk assessment was conducted using different worst-case scenarios of potential (sub)chronic TiO2 exposure, derived from published leaching experiments. Most face masks are considered safe, especially for occasional or single use. However, the nanosafety of a minority of face masks on the European market may be inadequate for prolonged and intensive use. Important uncertainties remain, including the risks of combined exposure to TiO2 NPs and silver biocides, and the lack of direct exposure measurements. Considering the potential safety issues and the limited added protective value of TiO2 NPs, it is recommended to ban all applications of TiO2 in face masks based on the precautionary principle.
Additional Links: PMID-40278560
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40278560,
year = {2025},
author = {Everaert, S and Godderis, L and Raquez, JM and Schoeters, G and Spanoghe, P and Moens, J and Hens, L and Michel, O and Adang, D and Fraeyman, N},
title = {Do We Need Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Nanoparticles in Face Masks?.},
journal = {Toxics},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278560},
issn = {2305-6304},
abstract = {The use of face masks has proven to be an effective preventive measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, concerns have emerged regarding the safety of metal (nano)particles incorporated into face masks for antimicrobial purposes. Specifically, this review examines the risks associated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), which are classified as a possible human carcinogen. The inhalation of TiO2 NPs can cause multiple adverse effects, including oxidative stress, pulmonary inflammation, histopathological changes, and (secondary) genotoxicity. Different aspects are discussed, such as the composition and filtration efficiency of face masks, the antimicrobial mode of action and effectiveness of various metals, and the hazards of TiO2 NPs to human health, including exposure limits. A conservative risk assessment was conducted using different worst-case scenarios of potential (sub)chronic TiO2 exposure, derived from published leaching experiments. Most face masks are considered safe, especially for occasional or single use. However, the nanosafety of a minority of face masks on the European market may be inadequate for prolonged and intensive use. Important uncertainties remain, including the risks of combined exposure to TiO2 NPs and silver biocides, and the lack of direct exposure measurements. Considering the potential safety issues and the limited added protective value of TiO2 NPs, it is recommended to ban all applications of TiO2 in face masks based on the precautionary principle.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
Assessing the evidence for antibiotic management of laboratory-confirmed Streptococcus A skin infections to prevent acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease: a systematic review.
IJID regions, 15:100642.
OBJECTIVES: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are potential sequelae of untreated group A streptococcal (Strep A) infections. Guidelines focus on treating Strep A pharyngitis but seldom on skin infections. This systematic review explored whether directed antibiotic therapy for superficial Strep A skin infections prevents ARF/RHD.
METHODS: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and clinical trial registries for published and ongoing trials measuring the eradication of Strep A and clinical resolution of polymicrobial infections with antibiotics through December 13, 2024. We calculated risk ratios and absolute risk differences, using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) to assess the certainty of evidence.
RESULTS: No trials were reported on ARF/RHD outcomes. However, we identified 12 trials and pooled data comparing penicillin, cotrimoxazole, macrolides, and cephalosporins. There was probably no difference between interventions for eradicating Strep A (very low certainty evidence). For clinical resolution, cotrimoxazole was comparable to intramuscular benzathine benzylpenicillin and macrolides to penicillin (moderate certainty evidence). First- and second-generation cephalosporins showed no difference (low certainty evidence), whereas third-generation cephalosporins demonstrated improved clinical response (moderate certainty evidence). Benzathine benzylpenicillin-associated injection-site pain and oral antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal disorders were commonly reported.
CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence for directed treatment of Strep A skin infections to prevent ARF/RHD is uncertain, requiring further research, with consideration of antimicrobial resistance and the limited antibiotic pipeline.
Additional Links: PMID-40275994
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40275994,
year = {2025},
author = {Leong, TD and Hohlfeld, AS and Bango, F and Mabetha, D and Blose, N and Oliver, J and Engel, ME and Kredo, T},
title = {Assessing the evidence for antibiotic management of laboratory-confirmed Streptococcus A skin infections to prevent acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease: a systematic review.},
journal = {IJID regions},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {100642},
pmid = {40275994},
issn = {2772-7076},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are potential sequelae of untreated group A streptococcal (Strep A) infections. Guidelines focus on treating Strep A pharyngitis but seldom on skin infections. This systematic review explored whether directed antibiotic therapy for superficial Strep A skin infections prevents ARF/RHD.
METHODS: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and clinical trial registries for published and ongoing trials measuring the eradication of Strep A and clinical resolution of polymicrobial infections with antibiotics through December 13, 2024. We calculated risk ratios and absolute risk differences, using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) to assess the certainty of evidence.
RESULTS: No trials were reported on ARF/RHD outcomes. However, we identified 12 trials and pooled data comparing penicillin, cotrimoxazole, macrolides, and cephalosporins. There was probably no difference between interventions for eradicating Strep A (very low certainty evidence). For clinical resolution, cotrimoxazole was comparable to intramuscular benzathine benzylpenicillin and macrolides to penicillin (moderate certainty evidence). First- and second-generation cephalosporins showed no difference (low certainty evidence), whereas third-generation cephalosporins demonstrated improved clinical response (moderate certainty evidence). Benzathine benzylpenicillin-associated injection-site pain and oral antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal disorders were commonly reported.
CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence for directed treatment of Strep A skin infections to prevent ARF/RHD is uncertain, requiring further research, with consideration of antimicrobial resistance and the limited antibiotic pipeline.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-25
Defining, assessing, and implementing organizational health literacy: barriers, facilitators, and tools - a systematic review.
BMC health services research, 25(1):599.
BACKGROUND: Organizational health literacy (OHL) is increasingly recognized as a fundamental aspect of high-quality healthcare delivery, focusing on organizations' roles in enabling patients to access, understand, and use health information effectively. This systematic review synthesizes current research on OHL, focusing on its definitions, assessment tools, implemented practices, outcomes, and the factors influencing successful OHL integration within healthcare settings.
METHODS: Guided by PRISMA and following a predefined registered protocol (PROSPERO 2024:CRD42024537425), this systematic review analyzed studies from six key databases, using targeted keywords associated with OHL. Eligibility criteria isolated research on OHL tools, practices, and outcomes in healthcare settings. Independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and bias risk analysis. Systematic quality assessment and data extraction were performed to thoroughly evaluate OHL's impact on healthcare.
RESULTS: This systematic review identified 62 articles, published between 2010 and 2024, from 15 different countries. A notable share (30.6%) aimed to develop, validate, and pilot context-sensitive OHL assessment tools. Other studies included qualitative (24.1%), descriptive (14.6%), case studies (11.29%), cross-sectional (8.06%), mixed methods (8.06%), and quantitative (3.25%) approaches, investigating factors promoting and impeding OHL outcomes. The results highlight a 54.1% increase in studies during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period.
CONCLUSION: OHL is instrumental in advancing healthcare systems towards greater accessibility and patient-centeredness. Nevertheless, overcoming the identified implementation barriers is crucial for realizing OHL's full potential in enhancing healthcare equity and efficiency. Strategic efforts are needed to foster organizational support, adapt structural practices, and allocate necessary resources for OHL initiatives to enhance healthcare.
Additional Links: PMID-40275360
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40275360,
year = {2025},
author = {Pelizzari, N and Covolo, L and Ceretti, E and Fiammenghi, C and Gelatti, U},
title = {Defining, assessing, and implementing organizational health literacy: barriers, facilitators, and tools - a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {599},
pmid = {40275360},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {*Health Literacy/organization & administration ; Humans ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Organizational health literacy (OHL) is increasingly recognized as a fundamental aspect of high-quality healthcare delivery, focusing on organizations' roles in enabling patients to access, understand, and use health information effectively. This systematic review synthesizes current research on OHL, focusing on its definitions, assessment tools, implemented practices, outcomes, and the factors influencing successful OHL integration within healthcare settings.
METHODS: Guided by PRISMA and following a predefined registered protocol (PROSPERO 2024:CRD42024537425), this systematic review analyzed studies from six key databases, using targeted keywords associated with OHL. Eligibility criteria isolated research on OHL tools, practices, and outcomes in healthcare settings. Independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and bias risk analysis. Systematic quality assessment and data extraction were performed to thoroughly evaluate OHL's impact on healthcare.
RESULTS: This systematic review identified 62 articles, published between 2010 and 2024, from 15 different countries. A notable share (30.6%) aimed to develop, validate, and pilot context-sensitive OHL assessment tools. Other studies included qualitative (24.1%), descriptive (14.6%), case studies (11.29%), cross-sectional (8.06%), mixed methods (8.06%), and quantitative (3.25%) approaches, investigating factors promoting and impeding OHL outcomes. The results highlight a 54.1% increase in studies during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period.
CONCLUSION: OHL is instrumental in advancing healthcare systems towards greater accessibility and patient-centeredness. Nevertheless, overcoming the identified implementation barriers is crucial for realizing OHL's full potential in enhancing healthcare equity and efficiency. Strategic efforts are needed to foster organizational support, adapt structural practices, and allocate necessary resources for OHL initiatives to enhance healthcare.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Health Literacy/organization & administration
Humans
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology
RevDate: 2025-04-24
CmpDate: 2025-04-25
COVID-19 and acute limb ischemia: latest hypotheses of pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms.
Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B, 26(4):333-352.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a multi-system disease that can lead to various severe complications. Acute limb ischemia (ALI) has been increasingly recognized as a COVID-19-associated complication that often predicts a poor prognosis. However, the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms underlying COVID-19-associated ALI remain poorly understood. Hypercoagulability and thrombosis are considered important mechanisms, but we also emphasize the roles of vasospasm, hypoxia, and acidosis in the pathogenesis of the disease. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) pathway, inflammation, and platelet activation may be important molecular mechanisms underlying these pathological changes induced by COVID-19. Furthermore, we discuss the hypotheses of risk factors for COVID-19-associated ALI from genetic, age, and gender perspectives based on our analysis of molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize therapeutic approaches such as use of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) blocker tocilizumab, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, providing insights for the future treatment of coronavirus-associated limb ischemic diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-40274383
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40274383,
year = {2025},
author = {Yao, C and Dong, Y and Zhou, H and Zou, X and Alhaskawi, A and Ezzi, SHA and Wang, Z and Lai, J and Kota, VG and Abdulla, MHAH and Liu, Z and Abdalbary, SA and Alenikova, O and Lu, H},
title = {COVID-19 and acute limb ischemia: latest hypotheses of pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms.},
journal = {Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B},
volume = {26},
number = {4},
pages = {333-352},
pmid = {40274383},
issn = {1862-1783},
support = {2022RC136//the Zhejiang Provincial Medical Scientific Research Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Ischemia/physiopathology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Extremities/blood supply ; Risk Factors ; Interleukin-6/antagonists & inhibitors ; Acute Disease ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a multi-system disease that can lead to various severe complications. Acute limb ischemia (ALI) has been increasingly recognized as a COVID-19-associated complication that often predicts a poor prognosis. However, the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms underlying COVID-19-associated ALI remain poorly understood. Hypercoagulability and thrombosis are considered important mechanisms, but we also emphasize the roles of vasospasm, hypoxia, and acidosis in the pathogenesis of the disease. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) pathway, inflammation, and platelet activation may be important molecular mechanisms underlying these pathological changes induced by COVID-19. Furthermore, we discuss the hypotheses of risk factors for COVID-19-associated ALI from genetic, age, and gender perspectives based on our analysis of molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize therapeutic approaches such as use of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) blocker tocilizumab, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, providing insights for the future treatment of coronavirus-associated limb ischemic diseases.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Ischemia/physiopathology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Extremities/blood supply
Risk Factors
Interleukin-6/antagonists & inhibitors
Acute Disease
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2
RevDate: 2025-04-24
Digital Psychological Interventions for Adults in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Health psychology review [Epub ahead of print].
This study evaluates the effect of digital psychological interventions on anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms in adults affected by the pandemic. A systematic search across five digital databases, from 1 January 2020 to 6 March 2024, identified 36 studies encompassing 8,662 participants. Compared with all control conditions, random-effects meta-analyses indicated that digital psychological interventions significantly reduced anxiety (g = -0.374; 95% CI, -0.529 to -0.218), depression (g = -0.568; 95% CI, -0.776 to -0.360), and stress (g = -0.452; 95% CI, -0.608 to -0.295). Smaller effect sizes were observed when compared with active controls than with inactive controls. Notable heterogeneity across three outcomes was observed. Publication bias was noted in depression symptoms. Several moderators were identified compared with inactive controls, including participant type for anxiety (psubgroup = 0.005), and region for depression symptoms (psubgroup = 0.000). Larger sample sizes (b = 0.0004; p = 0.028) related to stronger effects on depression symptoms. Publication year positively correlated with effects on stress (b = 0.1573; p = 0.032). This study supports the efficacy of digital psychological interventions in alleviating anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms for adults during the pandemic, offering insights for developing targeted mental health strategies in future public health crises.
Additional Links: PMID-40273323
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40273323,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Liu, Y and Liu, X and Zhang, T and Guo, Z and Lai, L and Zhao, J and Cheng, Y and Ren, Z},
title = {Digital Psychological Interventions for Adults in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Health psychology review},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/17437199.2025.2493903},
pmid = {40273323},
issn = {1743-7202},
abstract = {This study evaluates the effect of digital psychological interventions on anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms in adults affected by the pandemic. A systematic search across five digital databases, from 1 January 2020 to 6 March 2024, identified 36 studies encompassing 8,662 participants. Compared with all control conditions, random-effects meta-analyses indicated that digital psychological interventions significantly reduced anxiety (g = -0.374; 95% CI, -0.529 to -0.218), depression (g = -0.568; 95% CI, -0.776 to -0.360), and stress (g = -0.452; 95% CI, -0.608 to -0.295). Smaller effect sizes were observed when compared with active controls than with inactive controls. Notable heterogeneity across three outcomes was observed. Publication bias was noted in depression symptoms. Several moderators were identified compared with inactive controls, including participant type for anxiety (psubgroup = 0.005), and region for depression symptoms (psubgroup = 0.000). Larger sample sizes (b = 0.0004; p = 0.028) related to stronger effects on depression symptoms. Publication year positively correlated with effects on stress (b = 0.1573; p = 0.032). This study supports the efficacy of digital psychological interventions in alleviating anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms for adults during the pandemic, offering insights for developing targeted mental health strategies in future public health crises.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-24
Interventions for combating COVID-19 misinformation: A systematic realist review.
PloS one, 20(4):e0321818.
Misinformation is a growing concern worldwide, particularly in public health following the COVID-19 pandemic in which misinformation has been attributed to tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths. Therefore a search for effective interventions against misinformation is underway, with widely varying proposed interventions, measures of efficacy, and groups targeted for intervention. This realist systematic review of proposed interventions against COVID-19 misinformation assesses the studies themselves, the characteristics and effectiveness of the interventions proposed, the durability of effect, and the circumstances and contexts within which these interventions function. We searched several databases for studies testing interventions published from 2020 onwards. The search results were sorted by eligibility, with eligible studies then being coded by themes and assessed for quality. Thirty-five studies were included, representing eight types of intervention. The results are promising to the advantages of game-type interventions, with other types scoring poorly on either scalability or impact. Backfire effects and effects on subgroups were reported on intermittently in the included studies, showing the advantages of certain interventions for subgroups or contexts. No one intervention appears sufficient by itself, therefore this study recommends the creation of packages of interventions by policymakers, who can tailor the package for contexts and targeted groups. There was high heterogeneity in outcome measures and methods, making comparisons between studies difficult; this should be a focus in future studies. Additionally, the theoretical and intervention literatures need connecting for greater understanding of the mechanisms at work in the interventions. Lastly, there is a need for work more explicitly addressing political polarisation and its role in the belief and spread of misinformation. This study contributes toward the expansion of realist review approaches, understandings of COVID-19 misinformation interventions, and broader debates around the nature of politicisation in contemporary misinformation.
Additional Links: PMID-40273148
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40273148,
year = {2025},
author = {Dickinson, R and Makowski, D and van Marwijk, H and Ford, E},
title = {Interventions for combating COVID-19 misinformation: A systematic realist review.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {e0321818},
pmid = {40273148},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Humans ; *Communication ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Pandemics ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {Misinformation is a growing concern worldwide, particularly in public health following the COVID-19 pandemic in which misinformation has been attributed to tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths. Therefore a search for effective interventions against misinformation is underway, with widely varying proposed interventions, measures of efficacy, and groups targeted for intervention. This realist systematic review of proposed interventions against COVID-19 misinformation assesses the studies themselves, the characteristics and effectiveness of the interventions proposed, the durability of effect, and the circumstances and contexts within which these interventions function. We searched several databases for studies testing interventions published from 2020 onwards. The search results were sorted by eligibility, with eligible studies then being coded by themes and assessed for quality. Thirty-five studies were included, representing eight types of intervention. The results are promising to the advantages of game-type interventions, with other types scoring poorly on either scalability or impact. Backfire effects and effects on subgroups were reported on intermittently in the included studies, showing the advantages of certain interventions for subgroups or contexts. No one intervention appears sufficient by itself, therefore this study recommends the creation of packages of interventions by policymakers, who can tailor the package for contexts and targeted groups. There was high heterogeneity in outcome measures and methods, making comparisons between studies difficult; this should be a focus in future studies. Additionally, the theoretical and intervention literatures need connecting for greater understanding of the mechanisms at work in the interventions. Lastly, there is a need for work more explicitly addressing political polarisation and its role in the belief and spread of misinformation. This study contributes toward the expansion of realist review approaches, understandings of COVID-19 misinformation interventions, and broader debates around the nature of politicisation in contemporary misinformation.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Humans
*Communication
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Pandemics
Public Health
RevDate: 2025-04-24
Neurotoxic Implications of Human Coronaviruses in Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Perspective from Amyloid Aggregation.
ACS chemical biology [Epub ahead of print].
Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) include seven species: HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1, and SARS-CoV-2. The last three, classified as Betacoronaviruses, are highly transmissible and have caused severe pandemics. HCoV infections primarily affect the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as dry cough, fever, and breath shortness, which can progress to acute respiratory failure and death. Beyond respiratory effects, increasing evidence links HCoVs to neurological dysfunction. However, distinguishing direct neural complications from preexisting disorders, particularly in the elderly, remains challenging. This study examines the association between HCoVs and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, Lewy body dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. It also presents the long-term neurological effects of HCoV infections and their differential impact across age groups and sexes. A key aspect of this study is the investigation of the sequence and structural similarities between amyloidogenic and HCoV spike proteins, which can provide insights into potential neuropathomechanisms.
Additional Links: PMID-40272376
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40272376,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, THV and Ferron, F and Murakami, K},
title = {Neurotoxic Implications of Human Coronaviruses in Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Perspective from Amyloid Aggregation.},
journal = {ACS chemical biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acschembio.5c00153},
pmid = {40272376},
issn = {1554-8937},
abstract = {Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) include seven species: HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1, and SARS-CoV-2. The last three, classified as Betacoronaviruses, are highly transmissible and have caused severe pandemics. HCoV infections primarily affect the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as dry cough, fever, and breath shortness, which can progress to acute respiratory failure and death. Beyond respiratory effects, increasing evidence links HCoVs to neurological dysfunction. However, distinguishing direct neural complications from preexisting disorders, particularly in the elderly, remains challenging. This study examines the association between HCoVs and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, Lewy body dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. It also presents the long-term neurological effects of HCoV infections and their differential impact across age groups and sexes. A key aspect of this study is the investigation of the sequence and structural similarities between amyloidogenic and HCoV spike proteins, which can provide insights into potential neuropathomechanisms.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-24
The impact of COVID-19 on inflammatory bowel disease surgery: a systematic review.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England [Epub ahead of print].
INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant disruption to the delivery of surgical services. Guidance prioritising life-saving and cancer surgery was issued. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often requires considered, timely surgery, which may have not been feasible under the conditions imposed by the pandemic. This systematic review aims to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on IBD surgery and assess the safety of performing such surgery.
METHODS: A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science was performed. Studies that included a prepandemic and a pandemic cohort for comparison and reported on numbers of IBD surgeries or postoperative outcomes following IBD surgery were included. Heterogeneity of included studies precluded any meta-analyses.
FINDINGS: In total, 1,220 titles were screened and 13 were included in the final review. All were cohort studies other than one case-control study. A total of 1,673,282 and 1,445,971 patients were included in the prepandemic and pandemic cohorts, respectively. Rates of elective surgery during the pandemic varied from a 66% reduction to a 9.66% increase and emergency surgery varied from no difference to an 18% reduction. Urgent surgery in IBD inpatients appears to be unaffected. Postoperative outcomes were not shown to be negatively impacted by resource limitations.
CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic affected IBD surgical services considerably; however, those who did undergo surgery during this period do not appear to have been at an increased risk of adverse outcomes. Further work is required to describe the long-term impacts of these cancellations on IBD services and patient morbidity.
Additional Links: PMID-40272168
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40272168,
year = {2025},
author = {Couch, J and Li, C and Thomas, K and Card, T and Humes, D},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on inflammatory bowel disease surgery: a systematic review.},
journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1308/rcsann.2025.0016},
pmid = {40272168},
issn = {1478-7083},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant disruption to the delivery of surgical services. Guidance prioritising life-saving and cancer surgery was issued. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often requires considered, timely surgery, which may have not been feasible under the conditions imposed by the pandemic. This systematic review aims to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on IBD surgery and assess the safety of performing such surgery.
METHODS: A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science was performed. Studies that included a prepandemic and a pandemic cohort for comparison and reported on numbers of IBD surgeries or postoperative outcomes following IBD surgery were included. Heterogeneity of included studies precluded any meta-analyses.
FINDINGS: In total, 1,220 titles were screened and 13 were included in the final review. All were cohort studies other than one case-control study. A total of 1,673,282 and 1,445,971 patients were included in the prepandemic and pandemic cohorts, respectively. Rates of elective surgery during the pandemic varied from a 66% reduction to a 9.66% increase and emergency surgery varied from no difference to an 18% reduction. Urgent surgery in IBD inpatients appears to be unaffected. Postoperative outcomes were not shown to be negatively impacted by resource limitations.
CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic affected IBD surgical services considerably; however, those who did undergo surgery during this period do not appear to have been at an increased risk of adverse outcomes. Further work is required to describe the long-term impacts of these cancellations on IBD services and patient morbidity.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-25
CmpDate: 2025-04-24
The Slow Pandemic: Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance in the Postadvent of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.
Global health, epidemiology and genomics, 2025:3172234.
Background: The unprecedented outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has dramatically changed the global approach to public health, emphasizing the importance of measures to control and prevent infections. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, stringent hygiene practices and surface disinfection have become the norm, with an unprecedented surge in the use of disinfectants and antiseptics (DAs). Main Text: While these measures have been crucial in curbing the spread of the virus, an emerging concern has taken center stage: the potential impact of the prolonged and widespread use of antimicrobial compounds in these products on the development of antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has long been recognized as one of the most pressing global health threats. Quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) such as benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and cetylpyridinium chloride, which are extensively used in DAs formulations, have gained less attention in the context of AMR. Conclusion: A high abundance of QACs was detected in wastewater, and certain bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Enterococcus species developed resistance to these compounds over time. We analyzed the available evidence from the scientific literature, examining the presence and concentrations of QACs in different water sources, and their resistance mechanisms. This review aimed to shed light on the multifaceted challenges that arise from the dual battle against the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing global fight against AMR.
Additional Links: PMID-40271530
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40271530,
year = {2025},
author = {Osunla, A and Oloye, F and Kayode, A and Femi-Oloye, O and Okiti, A and Servos, M and Giesy, J},
title = {The Slow Pandemic: Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance in the Postadvent of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.},
journal = {Global health, epidemiology and genomics},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {3172234},
pmid = {40271530},
issn = {2054-4200},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quaternary Ammonium Compounds/pharmacology ; Benzalkonium Compounds ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Disinfectants ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/virology ; Wastewater/microbiology ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {Background: The unprecedented outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has dramatically changed the global approach to public health, emphasizing the importance of measures to control and prevent infections. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, stringent hygiene practices and surface disinfection have become the norm, with an unprecedented surge in the use of disinfectants and antiseptics (DAs). Main Text: While these measures have been crucial in curbing the spread of the virus, an emerging concern has taken center stage: the potential impact of the prolonged and widespread use of antimicrobial compounds in these products on the development of antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has long been recognized as one of the most pressing global health threats. Quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) such as benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and cetylpyridinium chloride, which are extensively used in DAs formulations, have gained less attention in the context of AMR. Conclusion: A high abundance of QACs was detected in wastewater, and certain bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Enterococcus species developed resistance to these compounds over time. We analyzed the available evidence from the scientific literature, examining the presence and concentrations of QACs in different water sources, and their resistance mechanisms. This review aimed to shed light on the multifaceted challenges that arise from the dual battle against the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing global fight against AMR.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds/pharmacology
Benzalkonium Compounds
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Disinfectants
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/virology
Wastewater/microbiology
Betacoronavirus
RevDate: 2025-04-24
CmpDate: 2025-04-24
Inappropriate polypharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic: impact, challenges, and solutions - a narrative review.
Folia medica, 67(1):.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, impacting various aspects of patient care. Polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications by a single patient, is a significant concern exacerbated by the pandemic. The dual threat of COVID-19 infection and polypharmacy for the same vulnerable group - the elderly and those with pre-existing multimorbidity - is particularly problematic, as polypharmacy has been shown to lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes in many chronic diseases. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted issues surrounding polypharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing its causes, consequences, and potential solutions.
Additional Links: PMID-40270160
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@article {pmid40270160,
year = {2025},
author = {Gavazova, E and Staynova, R and Grekova-Kafalova, D},
title = {Inappropriate polypharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic: impact, challenges, and solutions - a narrative review.},
journal = {Folia medica},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3897/folmed.67.e144169},
pmid = {40270160},
issn = {1314-2143},
mesh = {Humans ; *Polypharmacy ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Inappropriate Prescribing/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, impacting various aspects of patient care. Polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications by a single patient, is a significant concern exacerbated by the pandemic. The dual threat of COVID-19 infection and polypharmacy for the same vulnerable group - the elderly and those with pre-existing multimorbidity - is particularly problematic, as polypharmacy has been shown to lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes in many chronic diseases. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted issues surrounding polypharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing its causes, consequences, and potential solutions.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Polypharmacy
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Inappropriate Prescribing/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pandemics
RevDate: 2025-04-26
CmpDate: 2025-04-24
Prevalence and incidence of cognitive impairment following acute respiratory distress syndrome of any cause: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Critical care (London, England), 29(1):164.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to synthesize and appraise the evidence on prevalence of cognitive impairment following acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) of any cause.
METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for observational studies focused on cognitive impairment in adult survivors of ARDS. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence (GRADE) were assessed. A meta-analysis using a random effects model was performed to estimate the overall prevalence of cognitive impairment after ARDS, with subgroup analyses for COVID-19-related ARDS (C-ARDS). Additionally, a meta-regression was conducted to assess the influence of demographic and clinical predictors on cognitive outcomes. Heterogeneity was assessed using τ[2] and the I[2] statistic.
RESULTS: We identified 14 studies with 1451 participants, with 650 participants (range: 13-98) included in the analyses. In the subgroup of C-ARDS, 12 studies with 563 participants (range: 13-98) were considered. The pooled prevalence of cognitive impairment following ARDS was 36% (95% CI 26-46%), with high heterogeneity between studies (I[2] = 92%, τ[2] = 0.03). In C-ARDS cohorts, the prevalence was 34% (95% CI 22-45%), with similar levels of heterogeneity (I[2] = 92.7%, τ[2] = 0.03). Meta-regression analysis showed that older age predicted a higher prevalence of cognitive impairment following ARDS (b = 0.02, p = 0.033), reducing between-study heterogeneity (I² = 60.04%, τ² = 0.01). ICU stay, sex, and time from ICU discharge to cognitive assessment showed no significant associations (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis corroborates previous findings that cognitive impairment remains a persistent issue for ARDS survivors. The prevalence of cognitive impairments following ARDS highlights the importance of future research to unravel the complex underlying mechanisms contributing to these deficits and to develop targeted strategies for prevention and rehabilitation in survivors.
Additional Links: PMID-40269971
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@article {pmid40269971,
year = {2025},
author = {Pohl, R and Wolff, D and Özkan, E and Sprenger, AA and Hasenpusch, C and Wesenberg, J and Düzel, E and Apfelbacher, C},
title = {Prevalence and incidence of cognitive impairment following acute respiratory distress syndrome of any cause: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Critical care (London, England)},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {164},
pmid = {40269971},
issn = {1466-609X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/complications/epidemiology/psychology ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/etiology ; Prevalence ; Incidence ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to synthesize and appraise the evidence on prevalence of cognitive impairment following acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) of any cause.
METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for observational studies focused on cognitive impairment in adult survivors of ARDS. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence (GRADE) were assessed. A meta-analysis using a random effects model was performed to estimate the overall prevalence of cognitive impairment after ARDS, with subgroup analyses for COVID-19-related ARDS (C-ARDS). Additionally, a meta-regression was conducted to assess the influence of demographic and clinical predictors on cognitive outcomes. Heterogeneity was assessed using τ[2] and the I[2] statistic.
RESULTS: We identified 14 studies with 1451 participants, with 650 participants (range: 13-98) included in the analyses. In the subgroup of C-ARDS, 12 studies with 563 participants (range: 13-98) were considered. The pooled prevalence of cognitive impairment following ARDS was 36% (95% CI 26-46%), with high heterogeneity between studies (I[2] = 92%, τ[2] = 0.03). In C-ARDS cohorts, the prevalence was 34% (95% CI 22-45%), with similar levels of heterogeneity (I[2] = 92.7%, τ[2] = 0.03). Meta-regression analysis showed that older age predicted a higher prevalence of cognitive impairment following ARDS (b = 0.02, p = 0.033), reducing between-study heterogeneity (I² = 60.04%, τ² = 0.01). ICU stay, sex, and time from ICU discharge to cognitive assessment showed no significant associations (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis corroborates previous findings that cognitive impairment remains a persistent issue for ARDS survivors. The prevalence of cognitive impairments following ARDS highlights the importance of future research to unravel the complex underlying mechanisms contributing to these deficits and to develop targeted strategies for prevention and rehabilitation in survivors.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/complications/epidemiology/psychology
*Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/etiology
Prevalence
Incidence
RevDate: 2025-04-24
Vaccination in pregnancy to protect the newborn.
Nature reviews. Immunology [Epub ahead of print].
Infectious diseases pose a particular risk to newborns and there is a global need to protect this vulnerable group. Because of the challenges of developing vaccines that are effective in newborns, only the hepatitis B and tuberculosis vaccines are given in the first 28 days of life, and even those vaccines are mainly only offered to high-risk groups. Maternal antibodies cross the placenta and can afford some protection to the newborn, so an alternative strategy is vaccination in pregnancy. This approach has been successfully used to protect newborns against tetanus and pertussis, and vaccines that are primarily offered to protect the mother during pregnancy, such as influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, also provide some protection to newborns. A respiratory syncytial virus vaccine has recently been approved for use in pregnancy to protect newborns, and a new vaccine that will be offered during pregnancy to prevent Group B Streptococcus infection in infants is on the horizon. Here, we discuss the current vaccines that are offered during pregnancy and to newborns, the vaccines in development for future use in these groups and the challenges that remain concerning the delivery and uptake of such vaccines.
Additional Links: PMID-40269273
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40269273,
year = {2025},
author = {Male, V and Jones, CE},
title = {Vaccination in pregnancy to protect the newborn.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40269273},
issn = {1474-1741},
abstract = {Infectious diseases pose a particular risk to newborns and there is a global need to protect this vulnerable group. Because of the challenges of developing vaccines that are effective in newborns, only the hepatitis B and tuberculosis vaccines are given in the first 28 days of life, and even those vaccines are mainly only offered to high-risk groups. Maternal antibodies cross the placenta and can afford some protection to the newborn, so an alternative strategy is vaccination in pregnancy. This approach has been successfully used to protect newborns against tetanus and pertussis, and vaccines that are primarily offered to protect the mother during pregnancy, such as influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, also provide some protection to newborns. A respiratory syncytial virus vaccine has recently been approved for use in pregnancy to protect newborns, and a new vaccine that will be offered during pregnancy to prevent Group B Streptococcus infection in infants is on the horizon. Here, we discuss the current vaccines that are offered during pregnancy and to newborns, the vaccines in development for future use in these groups and the challenges that remain concerning the delivery and uptake of such vaccines.},
}
RevDate: 2025-04-23
Pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine - Best recent articles to read in 2025.
Paediatric respiratory reviews pii:S1526-0542(25)00033-8 [Epub ahead of print].
It is a challenge to select the "best" recent publications in a field. This is especially so when faced with a feast of outstanding manuscripts across a broad range of topics. I therefore reached out to a Who's Who of friends and colleagues in pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine for suggestions, and I was delighted and overwhelmed by the response - please see the Acknowledgements for those who contributed ideas. Overwhelmed, by having to read 77 publications suggested by one or more colleagues and having to winnow the list down to a somewhat reasonable number. I chose to include all papers mentioned by two or more of my colleagues and I then selected the remainder to cover the broad range of our field, based upon my belief that a manuscript represented an important contribution to our understanding and clinical care. What follows are the chosen papers organized by topic area. Given the number of papers that made the final cut, I have briefly summarized each of these manuscripts. I hope that you will find something new and exciting in these publications and that you will have as much fun in reading them as I did.
Additional Links: PMID-40268602
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40268602,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubin, BK},
title = {Pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine - Best recent articles to read in 2025.},
journal = {Paediatric respiratory reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.prrv.2025.04.002},
pmid = {40268602},
issn = {1526-0550},
abstract = {It is a challenge to select the "best" recent publications in a field. This is especially so when faced with a feast of outstanding manuscripts across a broad range of topics. I therefore reached out to a Who's Who of friends and colleagues in pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine for suggestions, and I was delighted and overwhelmed by the response - please see the Acknowledgements for those who contributed ideas. Overwhelmed, by having to read 77 publications suggested by one or more colleagues and having to winnow the list down to a somewhat reasonable number. I chose to include all papers mentioned by two or more of my colleagues and I then selected the remainder to cover the broad range of our field, based upon my belief that a manuscript represented an important contribution to our understanding and clinical care. What follows are the chosen papers organized by topic area. Given the number of papers that made the final cut, I have briefly summarized each of these manuscripts. I hope that you will find something new and exciting in these publications and that you will have as much fun in reading them as I did.},
}
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ESP Quick Facts
ESP Origins
In the early 1990's, Robert Robbins was a faculty member at Johns Hopkins, where he directed the informatics core of GDB — the human gene-mapping database of the international human genome project. To share papers with colleagues around the world, he set up a small paper-sharing section on his personal web page. This small project evolved into The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.
ESP Support
In 1995, Robbins became the VP/IT of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA. Soon after arriving in Seattle, Robbins secured funding, through the ELSI component of the US Human Genome Project, to create the original ESP.ORG web site, with the formal goal of providing free, world-wide access to the literature of classical genetics.
ESP Rationale
Although the methods of molecular biology can seem almost magical to the uninitiated, the original techniques of classical genetics are readily appreciated by one and all: cross individuals that differ in some inherited trait, collect all of the progeny, score their attributes, and propose mechanisms to explain the patterns of inheritance observed.
ESP Goal
In reading the early works of classical genetics, one is drawn, almost inexorably, into ever more complex models, until molecular explanations begin to seem both necessary and natural. At that point, the tools for understanding genome research are at hand. Assisting readers reach this point was the original goal of The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.
ESP Usage
Usage of the site grew rapidly and has remained high. Faculty began to use the site for their assigned readings. Other on-line publishers, ranging from The New York Times to Nature referenced ESP materials in their own publications. Nobel laureates (e.g., Joshua Lederberg) regularly used the site and even wrote to suggest changes and improvements.
ESP Content
When the site began, no journals were making their early content available in digital format. As a result, ESP was obliged to digitize classic literature before it could be made available. For many important papers — such as Mendel's original paper or the first genetic map — ESP had to produce entirely new typeset versions of the works, if they were to be available in a high-quality format.
ESP Help
Early support from the DOE component of the Human Genome Project was critically important for getting the ESP project on a firm foundation. Since that funding ended (nearly 20 years ago), the project has been operated as a purely volunteer effort. Anyone wishing to assist in these efforts should send an email to Robbins.
ESP Plans
With the development of methods for adding typeset side notes to PDF files, the ESP project now plans to add annotated versions of some classical papers to its holdings. We also plan to add new reference and pedagogical material. We have already started providing regularly updated, comprehensive bibliographies to the ESP.ORG site.
ESP Picks from Around the Web (updated 28 JUL 2024 )
Old Science
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Treating Disease with Fecal Transplantation
Fossils of miniature humans (hobbits) discovered in Indonesia
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Dinosaur tail, complete with feathers, found preserved in amber.
Astronomy
Mysterious fast radio burst (FRB) detected in the distant universe.
Big Data & Informatics
Big Data: Buzzword or Big Deal?
Hacking the genome: Identifying anonymized human subjects using publicly available data.