@article {pmid39635583,
year = {2024},
author = {Dong, S and Liu, X and Wang, Y},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on women's reproductive system.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {1485022},
pmid = {39635583},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been a major global focus since 2019. However, drug development and vaccination have been unable to stop the rise in the number of COVID-19 infections. As a result, almost everyone has been infected with COVID-19. As the COVID-19 pandemic nears its end, it is important to explore whether contracting COVID-19 has any irreversible effects on the female reproductive system. This article aims to review the effects of COVID-19 on the female ovary and reproductive system and examine whether these effects are permanent. In conclusion, we can state that COVID-19 has not caused any long-lasting effects on the reproductive health of most women, with the exception of a few cases where premature ovarian failure has been observed. These temporary effects, such as menstrual disturbances and temporary fertility loss, tend to diminish and eventually disappear over time.},
}

@article {pmid39634034,
year = {2024},
author = {Bergerot, C and Jacobsen, PB and Rosa, WE and Lam, WWT and Dunn, J and Fernández-González, L and Mehnert-Theuerkauf, A and Veeraiah, S and Li, M},
title = {Global unmet psychosocial needs in cancer care: health policy.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {78},
number = {},
pages = {102942},
pmid = {39634034},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Preventable psychosocial suffering is an unmet need in patients with cancer around the world, significantly compromising quality of life and impairing cancer health outcomes. This narrative review overviews the global prevalence of emotional distress and cancer-related needs and the access barriers to psychosocial care. The COVID-19 pandemic has served only to amplify the need for psychosocial care, exacerbating the inadequacy of available psychosocial resources, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Proposed solutions include implementing routine screening for emotional distress, addressing stigma related to mental health needs, and increased attention to the psychosocial dimensions of cancer care in oncology training and interprofessional models of care. There is an urgent need to address health policy issues such as resource allocation in cancer control plans and to embrace technological innovation in order to fill the universal gaps to providing more equitable psychosocial cancer care.

FUNDING: None.},
}

@article {pmid39634030,
year = {2024},
author = {Li, ZY and Li, YQ and Zhou, JR and Wang, J and Liu, KZ and Wang, P and Gong, CM and Wang, H and Zhang, YJ and Cao, Y and Gu, Y and Zhang, HB and Lu, H and Lu, LF and Feng, RJ},
title = {Causes and countermeasures for the increased infection and COVID-19 mortality rates in patients with schizophrenia.},
journal = {IBRO neuroscience reports},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {456-462},
pmid = {39634030},
issn = {2667-2421},
abstract = {Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a common psychiatric disorder that has a complex pathological mechanism. During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, patients with SCZ had substantially higher rates of infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as well as higher COVID-19 mortality relative to patients with other mental disorders. However, the reasons for these increased rates in patients with SCZ remain unknown. In this review, we hypothesize that certain molecular pathways exhibit abnormal function in both COVID-19 and SCZ, with a focus on those related to energy metabolism dysregulation, immune system disruption, and abnormalities of the central nervous system. We review that dysregulation of energy metabolism can result in disruptions to the immune system and abnormalities within the central nervous system (CNS). Furthermore, immune system disturbances may also contribute to CNS abnormalities in both SCZ and COVID-19. We also discuss macro-factors associated with the high infection and mortality rates of COVID-19 in patients with SCZ, including sociodemographic factors, reduced access to psychiatric healthcare, structural barriers to COVID-19 vaccination, and proposed approaches to mitigate these macro-factors.},
}

@article {pmid39633891,
year = {2023},
author = {Azizah, WN and Oscandar, F and Damayanti, MA},
title = {Systematic review: oral and maxillofacial radiology as fundamental methods of virtual autopsy.},
journal = {Forensic sciences research},
volume = {8},
number = {3},
pages = {185-197},
pmid = {39633891},
issn = {2471-1411},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Refusal of autopsy occurs for various reasons, including religious beliefs and the risk of infectious diseases such as coronavirus disease 2019. Dental autopsy involves invasive procedures, including incision and access openings in the oral cavity. Radiographic techniques can be used as an alternative to the conventional autopsy process in the field of forensic odontology, providing a non-invasive approach that does not involve tissue damage. The current study aimed to analyse the current status of the applicability of oral and maxillofacial radiology for virtual forensic odontological autopsy. A systematic review was conducted in accord with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis protocol. The literature search was conducted from December 2021 to October 2022 using the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SAGE Journals databases. Article selection was carried out by eliminating duplication, screening titles and abstracts, and reading the entire content of the article. A thematic analysis method was used to identify themes in the collected data. A total of 15 articles were included, and several uses of oral and maxillofacial radiography in virtual autopsy and forensic odontology were identified. Four techniques were identified that can be used for virtual autopsy in forensic odontology. The use of computed tomography (CT) scanning for virtual autopsy was reported in six articles, cone beam CT was reported in five articles, magnetic resonance imaging was reported in two articles, and multidetector CT was reported in two articles. In the studies included in this review, the identified oral and maxillofacial radiograph techniques that are used as the fundamental methods of virtual autopsy in forensic odontology are CT scanning (including multidetector CT), cone beam CT, and magnetic resonance imaging. The different methods of oral and maxillofacial radiography for virtual autopsy were identified as having advantages as well as limitations in their use in forensic odontology. Most of the included studies indicated that the virtual autopsy approach cannot yet stand alone as an identification method, but provides a useful adjunct for gathering dental evidence.

KEY POINTS: Virtual autopsy is a valuable tool for non-invasive autopsies in the field of forensic odontology.CT scans (including MDCT), CBCT, and MRI can be used for virtual autopsy in the identification of individuals based on dental evidence.The use of oral and maxillofacial radiographs can shorten the time required for forensic odontology activities.Artefacts caused by amalgam and other metal restorations on radiographic images can raise doubts in the identification process.Although the use of oral and maxillofacial radiology has many advantages, it cannot yet stand alone as an identification method.},
}

@article {pmid39633853,
year = {2024},
author = {Untung, T and Pandey, R and Johansson, P},
title = {The cost-effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination program among age-groups children, adults, and elderly in Europe: A systematic review.},
journal = {Vaccine: X},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {100580},
pmid = {39633853},
issn = {2590-1362},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To prepare for future epidemics, the experiences from the vaccination programs in the COVID-19 pandemic need to be collated. This systematic review synthesizes health economic evidence of COVID-19 vaccination programs in European countries comparing the target groups children, adults, and elderly, to study whether the Swedish vaccination strategy was justified on cost-effectiveness grounds.

METHOD: A literature search using the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Control, Outcomes, Study design) convention was conducted in the databases Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Tuft CEA Registry, Cochrane and INAHTA in February 2023. The inclusion criteria were economic evaluations (S) comparing COVID-19 vaccination (I) in age-groups children, adult, and elderly European residents (P) with non-vaccinated European residents (C) in terms of cost per QALY, cost differences, and net monetary benefit (O). Hand-search was done on selected websites and in reference lists of included reports. Title/abstract screening, full-text screening, and quality assessment with the Swedish HTA agency checklist were performed by two researchers. The reporting follows the PRISMA 2020 recommendations.

RESULTS: The database search resulted in 5,720 reports, title/abstract screening yielded 162 reports and after full-text screening, four reports remained. Two studies comparing vaccination of adults and elderly with high and moderate study quality were included. No study was found on the children population. The economic evidence indicated that COVID-19 vaccination of the elderly is cost-effective when compared with vaccination of the adult group, but the transferability to Swedish circumstances was inconclusive due to differences in outcome and cost data between Sweden and the included studies' settings.

CONCLUSION: The common European COVID-19 vaccination policy that prioritized the elderly population was the cost-effective option in the reviewed studies. The lack of transferability to Sweden precludes a clear conclusion on the Swedish vaccination policy.},
}

@article {pmid38967503,
year = {2024},
author = {Tang, C and Dziedzic, A and Khatib, MN and Alhumaid, S and Thangavelu, L and Parameswari, RP and Satapathy, P and Zahiruddin, QS and Rustagi, S and Alanazi, MA and Al-Thaqafy, MS and Hazazi, A and Alotaibi, J and Al Faraj, NJ and Al-Zaki, NA and Al Marshood, MJ and Al Saffar, TY and Alsultan, KA and Al-Ahmed, SH and Rabaan, AA},
title = {Stem cell therapy for COVID-19 treatment: an umbrella review.},
journal = {International journal of surgery (London, England)},
volume = {110},
number = {10},
pages = {6402-6417},
pmid = {38967503},
issn = {1743-9159},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; Stem Cell Transplantation/methods ; Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has presented significant obstacles to healthcare. Stem cell therapy, particularly mesenchymal stem cells, has emerged as a potential treatment modality due to its immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. This umbrella review aims to synthesize current evidence from systematic reviews on the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy in COVID-19 treatment.

METHODS: A thorough literature search was performed across Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science from December 2019 to February 2024. Systematic reviews focusing on the use of stem cell therapy for COVID-19 were included. Evidence was synthesized by meta-analysis using R software (V 4.3) for each outcome. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS: A total of 24 systematic reviews were included. Stem cell therapy was associated with reduced mortality [risk ratio (RR) 0.72, 95% CI: 0.60-0.86]; shorter hospital stays (mean difference -4.00 days, 95% CI: -4.68 to -3.32), and decreased need for invasive ventilation (RR 0.521, 95% CI: 0.320-0.847). Symptom remission rates improved (RR 1.151, 95% CI: 0.998-1.330), and a reduction in C-reactive protein levels was noted (standardized mean difference -1.198, 95% CI: -2.591 to 0.195), albeit with high heterogeneity. For adverse events, no significant differences were found between stem cell therapy and standard care (RR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.607-1.265). The certainty of evidence ranged from low to moderate.

CONCLUSION: Stem cell therapy demonstrates a potential benefit in treating COVID-19, particularly in reducing mortality and hospital stay duration. Despite these promising findings, the evidence is varied, and future large-scale randomized trials are essential to confirm the efficacy and optimize the therapeutic protocols for stem cell therapy in the management of the disease. The safety profile is encouraging, with no significant increase in adverse events, suggesting a viable avenue for treatment expansion.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy
Stem Cell Transplantation/methods
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid39634299,
year = {2022},
author = {Bannur Nanjunda, S and Seshadri, VN and Krishnan, C and Rath, S and Arunagiri, S and Bao, Q and Helmerson, K and Zhang, H and Jain, R and Sundarrajan, A and Srinivasan, B},
title = {Emerging nanophotonic biosensor technologies for virus detection.},
journal = {Nanophotonics (Berlin, Germany)},
volume = {11},
number = {22},
pages = {5041-5059},
pmid = {39634299},
issn = {2192-8614},
abstract = {Highly infectious viral diseases are a serious threat to mankind as they can spread rapidly among the community, possibly even leading to the loss of many lives. Early diagnosis of a viral disease not only increases the chance of quick recovery, but also helps prevent the spread of infections. There is thus an urgent need for accurate, ultrasensitive, rapid, and affordable diagnostic techniques to test large volumes of the population to track and thereby control the spread of viral diseases, as evidenced during the COVID-19 and other viral pandemics. This review paper critically and comprehensively reviews various emerging nanophotonic biosensor mechanisms and biosensor technologies for virus detection, with a particular focus on detection of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) virus. The photonic biosensing mechanisms and technologies that we have focused on include: (a) plasmonic field enhancement via localized surface plasmon resonances, (b) surface enhanced Raman scattering, (c) nano-Fourier transform infrared (nano-FTIR) near-field spectroscopy, (d) fiber Bragg gratings, and (e) microresonators (whispering gallery modes), with a particular emphasis on the emerging impact of nanomaterials and two-dimensional materials in these photonic sensing technologies. This review also discusses several quantitative issues related to optical sensing with these biosensing and transduction techniques, notably quantitative factors that affect the limit of detection (LoD), sensitivity, specificity, and response times of the above optical biosensing diagnostic technologies for virus detection. We also review and analyze future prospects of cost-effective, lab-on-a-chip virus sensing solutions that promise ultrahigh sensitivities, rapid detection speeds, and mass manufacturability.},
}

@article {pmid39634532,
year = {2022},
author = {Nava, G and Zanchetta, G and Giavazzi, F and Buscaglia, M},
title = {Label-free optical biosensors in the pandemic era.},
journal = {Nanophotonics (Berlin, Germany)},
volume = {11},
number = {18},
pages = {4159-4181},
pmid = {39634532},
issn = {2192-8614},
abstract = {The research in the field of optical biosensors is continuously expanding, thanks both to the introduction of brand new technologies and the ingenious use of established methods. A new awareness on the potential societal impact of this research has arisen as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic. The availability of a new generation of analytical tools enabling a more accurate understanding of bio-molecular processes or the development of distributed diagnostic devices with improved performance is now in greater demand and more clearly envisioned, but not yet achieved. In this review, we focus on emerging innovation opportunities conveyed by label-free optical biosensors. We review the most recent innovations in label-free optical biosensor technology in consideration of their competitive potential in selected application areas. The operational simplicity implicit to label-free detection can be exploited in novel rapid and compact devices for distributed diagnostic applications. The adaptability to any molecular recognition or conformational process facilitates the integration of DNA nanostructures carrying novel functions. The high sensitivity to nanoscale objects stimulates the development of ultrasensitive systems down to digital detection of single molecular binding events enhanced by nanoparticles and direct enumeration of bio-nanoparticles like viruses.},
}

@article {pmid39633779,
year = {2024},
author = {Alwakeel, M and Abi Fadel, F and Nanah, A and Wang, Y and Awad, MKA and Abdeljaleel, F and Obeidat, M and Saleem, T and Afzal, S and Alayan, D and Harnegie, MP and Wang, X and Duggal, A and Zhang, P},
title = {Efficacy of COVID-19 Treatments in Intensive Care Unit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.},
journal = {Critical care research and practice},
volume = {2024},
number = {},
pages = {2973795},
pmid = {39633779},
issn = {2090-1305},
abstract = {Objectives: Examining the cumulative evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), evaluating the use of pharmacological agents for the treatment of COVID-19 infections in patients with critical illness. Data Sources: Databases Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane. Study Selection: Inclusion criteria were RCTs that enrolled patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection who are critically ill. Only RCTs that examined therapeutic agents against one another or no intervention, placebo, or standard of care, were included. Data Extraction: Pairs of reviewers extracted data independently. Outcomes of interest included the overall reported mortality defined as either the ICU mortality, hospital mortality, mortality within 28 days or mortality within 90 days. Data Synthesis: A total of 40 studies (11,613 patients) evaluated 50 therapeutic intervention arms divided into five main therapy categories; steroids, antiviral medications, immunomodulators, plasma therapies [intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), convalescent plasma and/or, therapeutic plasma exchange], and therapeutic anticoagulation. Immunomodulators was the only group with possible mortality benefit, risk ratio (RR) 0.83 (95% CI 0.73; 0.95), with nonsignificant heterogeneity (I [2] = 8%, p=0.36). In contrast, the other therapy groups showed no significant impact on mortality, as indicated by their respective pooled RRs: steroids [RR 0.91 (95% CI 0.82; 1.01), I [2] = 31%], antiviral medications [RR 1.11 (95% CI 0.82; 1.49), I [2] = 57%], plasma therapies [RR 0.77 (95% CI 0.58; 1.01), I [2] = 36%], and anticoagulation [RR 1.06 (95% CI 0.95; 1.18), I [2] = 0%]. Conclusions: This meta-analysis highlights both the heterogeneity and a lack of benefit from therapies evaluated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the RCTs were developed based on limited observational data. Future RCTs investigating pharmaceutical interventions in critically ill patients during pandemics need to be designed based on better evidence.},
}

@article {pmid39633468,
year = {2024},
author = {Singaram, VS and Pillay, R and Mbobnda Kapche, EL},
title = {Exploring the role of digital technology for feedback exchange in clinical training: a scoping review.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {298},
pmid = {39633468},
issn = {2046-4053},
mesh = {Humans ; Artificial Intelligence ; *Digital Technology ; *Education, Distance/methods ; *Education, Medical/methods ; *Formative Feedback ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Feedback plays an integral role in clinical training and can profoundly impact students' motivation and academic progression. The shift to online teaching, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted the necessity of transitioning traditional feedback mechanisms to digital platforms. Despite this, there is still a lack of clarity regarding effective strategies and tools for delivering digital feedback in clinical education. This scoping review aimed to assess the current utilization of digital feedback methods in clinical education, with a focus on identifying potential directions for future research and innovation.

METHODS: A database search using a published protocol based on the Joanna Briggs Institute framework was conducted between January 2010 and December 2023. Six databases were searched, PubMed/MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, Scopus, Google Scholar, Union Catalogue of Theses and Dissertations, and WorldCat Dissertations and Theses. Reviewers independently screened the papers against eligibility criteria and discussed the papers to attain consensus. Extracted data were analyzed qualitatively and descriptively.

RESULTS: Of the 2412 records identified, 33 reports met the inclusion criteria. Digital tools explored for feedback included web-based and social sites, smart device applications, virtual learning environments, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence. Convenience and immediate, personalized feedback and enhanced formative assessment outcomes were major facilitators of digital feedback utility. Technical constraints, limited content development, training, and data security issues hindered the adoption of these tools. Reports mostly comprised empirical research, published in the global North and conducted on undergraduates studying medicine.

CONCLUSION: This review highlighted a geographical imbalance in research on feedback exchange via digital tools for clinical training and stressed the need for increased studies in the global South. Furthermore, there is a call for broader exploration across other health professions and postgraduate education. Additionally, student perceptions of digital tools as intrusive necessitate a balanced integration with traditional feedback dialogues. The incorporation of virtual reality and artificial intelligence presents promising opportunities for personalized, real-time feedback, but requires vigilant governance to ensure data integrity and privacy. SCOPING REVIEW PROTOCOL: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-022-02151-8.},
}

Humans
Artificial Intelligence
*Digital Technology
*Education, Distance/methods
*Education, Medical/methods
*Formative Feedback
Pandemics

@article {pmid39633399,
year = {2024},
author = {Omari, SA and McCall, SJ and Hneiny, L and Sibai, AM},
title = {Health and well-being of older populations affected by humanitarian crises in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature.},
journal = {Conflict and health},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {73},
pmid = {39633399},
issn = {1752-1505},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The convergence of global demographic changes and rising humanitarian crises in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) has raised the number of affected older people (OP). These individuals face the challenges of aging and the adverse conditions of disasters, particularly pronounced in LMICs. This review aims to explore literature on the health and well-being of older populations during humanitarian crises in LMICs.

METHODS: This scoping review included primary studies on the health and well-being of older populations in humanitarian crises in LMIC. A search was conducted in five bibliographic databases last updated in 2023. A numerical summary and thematic analysis of study characteristics and themes were executed and findings were narratively synthesized.

RESULTS: A total of 84 eligible studies were included. The majority of studies were quantitative (n = 56), followed by qualitative (n = 22) and mixed-methods (n = 6). Most literature focuses on the high burden of mental health conditions and their determinants, such as depression, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The second most common theme is physical health, discussing high levels of mortality, disability, some non-communicable diseases, and limited evidence on the poor nutritional status. OP lack access to routine healthcare due to cost barriers. The key gaps in the literature are in mental and psychosocial health, especially pertaining to vulnerabilities and risk factors, and to contextualized interventions. Physical health research is relatively narrow lacking a wider range of chronic diseases while no research was performed on communicable diseases other than COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings show the complex vulnerabilities of OP in humanitarian crises which exacerbate their physical, mental, and psychosocial health outcomes. There is a need to strengthen evidence on the effectiveness of interventions, and to investigate determinants of health, especially mental and psychosocial health, across different contexts. Research should also explore cross-cutting issues like gender, access to livelihoods, and equitable access to humanitarian assistance.},
}

@article {pmid39632644,
year = {2024},
author = {Bhattacharyya, A and Shahabuddin, SM},
title = {Adult vaccination in India: A rapid review of current status & implementation challenges.},
journal = {The Indian journal of medical research},
volume = {160},
number = {3&4},
pages = {279-292},
pmid = {39632644},
issn = {0971-5916},
mesh = {Humans ; India/epidemiology ; Adult ; *Vaccination ; *Immunization Programs ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Female ; Pregnancy ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Background & objectives The expanded programme on immunization launched in India in 1978, with its focus on preventing six diseases in children (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, poliomyelitis, typhoid, and childhood tuberculosis), was widened in its scope in 1985-86. This new avtaar, the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), incorporated measles vaccine for children and rubella and adult diphtheria vaccines for pregnant women. We conducted this rapid review on adult immunization relevant for India, as recent COVID-19 experience revealed how newly emergent or re-emergent pathogens could have their onslaughts on the elderly and adults with comorbidities. Methods Three different bibliographic databases, namely PubMed, Scopus and Ovid were searched electronically to access the articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Relevant consensus guidelines by in-country professional groups were also collated. We conducted deduplication and screening of the outputs of these searches (1242 bibliographical records). Finally, 250 articles were found eligible for inclusion. As trials on the reduction of morbidities, mortalities and hospitalizations in adults due to proposed vaccines under Indian consensus guidelines were not available, no meta-analysis was conducted. Results Evidence from articles finally included in this synthesis were grouped under (i) preventing viral and bacterial infections in adults; (ii) adult vaccination and awareness tools; (iii) vaccine hesitancy/acceptance; and (iv) adult vaccination guidelines. In-country research revealed the need for introducing the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine in adolescence or early-adulthood to prevent ano-genital cancers in elderly and later life. Importantly HPV prevalence among cervical cancer patients varied between 88 to 98 per cent in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Delhi. The importance of conducting regular surveillance of pneumococcal diseases and influenza, as well as tweaking the vaccines accordingly, was revealed in other articles. A poor uptake of influenza vaccine (≤2%) in adults (≥45 yr) was documented. The uptake of hepatitis B vaccine in Health Care Workers (HCWs) in Delhi and Mumbai was of concern and ranged from 55 to 64 per cent. The vulnerability of HCWs to rubella was investigated in a paediatric ophthalmic hospital in Madurai: a tenth of the selected HCWs were rubella seronegative and mounted good protective immunity following RA 27/3 vaccine administration. An outbreak of measles in college students in Pune emphasized the phenomenon of waning immunity. Similarly, a study in the infectious disease hospital in Kolkata and in-patients in Delhi revealed a lack of protective immunity against diphtheria and tetanus in adults. The researchers estimated the economic benefits of providing a typhoid vaccine to a household to be US$ 23 in a middle-income neighbourhood and US$ 14 in slum settings. The authors highlighted the importance of preventive strategies, finding that the cost of severe typhoid fever was US$ 119.1 in 18 centres across India. Both qualitative and quantitative investigations explored vaccine hesitancy, which was studied more during the COVID-19 pandemic than earlier. Interpretation & conclusions Vaccination programmes in India would require (i) increasing awareness around vaccine-preventable diseases among adults and HCWs; (ii) actively engaging health care systems and community-based organizations; and (iii) developing and producing affordable, safe, and country-appropriate vaccines. Effective communication strategies and tools will be the key to the success of such interventions.},
}

Humans
India/epidemiology
Adult
*Vaccination
*Immunization Programs
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Female
Pregnancy
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid39631640,
year = {2024},
author = {Goetzl, EJ},
title = {Creating New Proteins for Medical Therapeutics: Short title: Designing Therapeutic Proteins.},
journal = {The American journal of medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.11.023},
pmid = {39631640},
issn = {1555-7162},
abstract = {Recent applications of artificial intelligence-derived methods of computational design have permitted de novo creation of proteins that do not exist in nature but have potent effects on human cells and organ systems. These rapid procedures also allow in one step protein modifications that optimize function, potency, stability, resistance to biodegradation, cellular and tissue distribution and biological half-time. Such proteins generated to date include cytokines, antibodies, inhibitors of cell death proteins and antagonists of extracellular receptors for growth factors and viruses. Newly designed proteins have broad medical diagnostic and therapeutic potentials, as well as the capacity to alter many normal activities of human cells.},
}

@article {pmid39631096,
year = {2024},
author = {McBride, C and Ho, JC and McQuade, M and Ngan, VSH and Ng, MCY and Cheah, ZRE and Maurer, U},
title = {Online assessment in young children: Challenges and considerations.},
journal = {PsyCh journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/pchj.805},
pmid = {39631096},
issn = {2046-0260},
support = {T44-410/21-N//Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Research Grants Council/ ; },
abstract = {In the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, online assessment has emerged as an increasingly popular method for testing children. This review aims to review key advantages and disadvantages of online assessment in young children, specifically in the area of literacy and mathematics assessment. We first consider the recent history of online assessment and give evidence from our own experiences with online assessments in both Cebu, Philippines and Hong Kong. We then discuss the benefits of conducting assessments online. One of the key strengths of online assessments is the efficient use of resources, such as ease of staff training, increased participation and decreased costs for both participants and researchers. Difficulties related to testing environment, parental interference and exclusion of certain populations are also highlighted as focal challenges that must be considered when designing and implementing online assessment. The reliability and validity of online assessments are then specifically discussed in relation to the question of how to best ensure that online measures function as intended, stressing the importance of establishing separate norms for the various administration modes. Notably, online assessments delivered via phone screen must have separate norms than those delivered on a computer screen, as device differences may account for differences in performance. Finally, we present broader considerations for designing online assessments with young children. This includes practical tips for pilot testing, user interface design, data confidentiality and automatic scoring, both to enhance the efficiency of future online assessments and increase participation. Specifically, online assessments for children must account for their developing attentional abilities, meaning assessments should be brief, engaging and contain clear task instructions. The implementation of these considerations will support the development of more reliable, valid and inclusive assessments which will allow researchers and practitioners to support equitable and feasible online testing moving forward.},
}

@article {pmid39630849,
year = {2024},
author = {Casadevall, A and Focosi, D},
title = {Lessons from the Use of Monoclonal Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein During the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Annual review of medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-med-061323-073837},
pmid = {39630849},
issn = {1545-326X},
abstract = {Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein were deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic. While all of the clinically authorized mAbs were eventually defeated by SARS-CoV-2 variants, they were highly effective in preventing disease progression when given early in the course of the disease. The experience with mAbs to SARS-CoV-2 offers important lessons for the use of mAbs in future infectious disease emergencies, such as choosing mAbs that target conserved epitopes and designing cocktails to reduce the emergence of escape variants. Planning for future use must include the creation of infusion centers and the development of strategies to minimize the emergence of escape variants.},
}

@article {pmid39630559,
year = {2024},
author = {Johnson-Arbor, KK},
title = {Frostbite on Denali: a case series and review of treatment options.},
journal = {Journal of wound care},
volume = {33},
number = {12},
pages = {906-911},
doi = {10.12968/jowc.2022.0087},
pmid = {39630559},
issn = {0969-0700},
mesh = {Humans ; *Frostbite/therapy ; Male ; *Mountaineering/injuries ; Middle Aged ; *Hyperbaric Oxygenation ; COVID-19/complications/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Finger Injuries/therapy ; },
abstract = {Frostbite, defined as tissue freezing due to cold weather exposure, is a major risk associated with mountaineering in cold climates. It represents a significant source of morbidity in the climbing population. In 2021, three individuals were evaluated at a single institution after developing frostbite while climbing Denali, Alaska, US. The affected patients were healthy men in the third to sixth decade of their lives, and all experienced frostbite injuries involving the fingers. Among the patients, one individual was unable to descend from the mountain due to the severity of his condition and required medical evacuation. The other men were able to descend without significant difficulty. After leaving the mountain, the patients were treated with thrombolysis, pentoxifylline, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and/or regional sympathetic blockade. Exposure to cold weather, ascent to high altitudes, and increased mechanisms of heat loss were likely potential risk factors for frostbite injury in these patients. Psychological factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic may have also impacted these individuals' risk for frostbite injury. Prevention is the most effective way to avoid frostbite, and knowledge and understanding of the risks associated with the development of this condition may reduce future occurrences among mountaineers. Since frostbite is not a common diagnosis encountered in patients treated in outpatient wound centres, physicians should maintain awareness of the pathophysiology and treatment options for this condition.},
}

Humans
*Frostbite/therapy
Male
*Mountaineering/injuries
Middle Aged
*Hyperbaric Oxygenation
COVID-19/complications/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Finger Injuries/therapy

@article {pmid39630134,
year = {2024},
author = {Wu, SN and Xiao, T and Chen, H and Li, XH},
title = {Decoding the genome of SARS-CoV-2: a pathway to drug development through translation inhibition.},
journal = {RNA biology},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {1-18},
pmid = {39630134},
issn = {1555-8584},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/virology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment/methods ; Drug Development ; *Genome, Viral ; Protein Biosynthesis/drug effects/genetics ; *RNA, Viral/genetics/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics ; Virus Replication/drug effects/genetics ; },
abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and is continuously spreading globally. The continuous emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants keeps posing threats, highlighting the need for fast-acting, mutation-resistant broad-spectrum therapeutics. Protein translation is vital for SARS-CoV-2 replication, producing early non-structural proteins for RNA replication and transcription, and late structural proteins for virion assembly. Targeted blocking of viral protein translation is thus a potential approach to developing effective anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs. SARS-CoV-2, as an obligate parasite, utilizes the host's translation machinery. Translation-blocking strategies that target the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA, especially those that target its conserved elements are generally preferred. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of SARS-CoV-2 translation, highlighting the important conserved motifs and structures involved in its regulation. We also discuss the current strategies for blocking SARS-CoV-2 translation through viral RNA degradation or RNA element dysfunction.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
COVID-19/virology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment/methods
Drug Development
*Genome, Viral
Protein Biosynthesis/drug effects/genetics
*RNA, Viral/genetics/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics
Virus Replication/drug effects/genetics

@article {pmid39629896,
year = {2025},
author = {Quiroga, CV and Caobelli, ACSL and Rodrigues, GVA and Viola, TW},
title = {Nonpharmacological Interventions Aimed at Promoting the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Child: care, health and development},
volume = {51},
number = {1},
pages = {e70013},
doi = {10.1111/cch.70013},
pmid = {39629896},
issn = {1365-2214},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/psychology ; Adolescent ; Child ; *Mental Health ; *Health Promotion/methods ; Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Interventions to promote mental health in paediatrics need to be effective, especially in crisis contexts. This systematic review proposes to compile and analyse the findings of nonpharmacological interventions conducted in samples of children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on mental health.

METHODS: The research was carried out in PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science databases for empirical studies, including interventions in which measures of outcome variables were collected at least twice (pre and post). The studies' samples were children and adolescents up to 19 years old, and interventions were developed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. After eligibility analyses, 16 studies were included in this review.

RESULTS: Studies used different theoretical approaches, focusing on the promotion, prevention and treatment of mental health in specific contexts. Some were delivered online, in-person or in hybrid formats. Particularly, depression, the most frequently assessed outcome, demonstrated more favourable results within the interventions than other evaluated outcomes. However, due to the considerable risk of bias, the qualitative analysis of the results of many included studies should be performed with caution.

CONCLUSIONS: Most of the interventions necessitate further validation, highlighting the ongoing need for research in this area. However, the emergence of interventions during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, provides an opportunity to expand evidence-based mental health practices, paving the way for their application in other crisis situations. Given that mental health prevention and promotion practices can be integrated into the roles of all healthcare providers, possessing insight into the most suitable evidence-based interventions can elevate the quality of care delivered.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/psychology
Adolescent
Child
*Mental Health
*Health Promotion/methods
Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39628270,
year = {2024},
author = {Duong-Quy, S and Nguyen Hai, C and Huynh-Anh, T and Nguyen-Nhu, V},
title = {Tackling pulmonary fibrosis risks in post-COVID-19: cutting-edge treatments.},
journal = {Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-10},
doi = {10.1080/14656566.2024.2438322},
pmid = {39628270},
issn = {1744-7666},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) post-COVID-19 has been identified as an important complication of Long-COVID, especially in patients with severe respiratory symptoms. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is the main tool for detecting fibrotic lesions in patients with PF post-COVID-19.

AREAS COVERED: We conducted a systematic review with the following objectives: (1) to summarize the incidence and disease burden of post‑COVID‑19 pulmonary fibrosis, (2) to provide information on available therapies and drugs for its management, (3) to comprehensively evaluate the initial treatment efficacy of these drugs, and (4) to identify the limitations and challenges associated with current treatment approaches.

EXPERT OPINION: Cutting-edge treatments for PF post-COVID-19 are focused on the complex and multifactorial nature of the disease progreession during Long COVID, which involves chronic inflammation, fibroblast activation, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition leading to stiffening and fibrosis of lung tissue. While traditional antifibrotic drugs with nintedanid and pirfenidone are being used, novel therapies with anti-interleukines, mesenchymal stem cells, and Rho-kinase inhibitors promise the new treatment approaches for patients with PF post-COVID-19. Further research and clinical trials are needed to determine the most effective strategies for managing this complex condition, with the goal of improving patient outcomes and quality of life.},
}

@article {pmid39625646,
year = {2024},
author = {Goel, AR and Yalcindag, A},
title = {An Update on Kawasaki Disease.},
journal = {Current rheumatology reports},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {4},
pmid = {39625646},
issn = {1534-6307},
mesh = {*Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To summarize advances in research on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of Kawasaki Disease (KD), a systemic inflammatory illness of unknown etiology that affects children globally.

RECENT FINDINGS: The epidemiology of KD was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and advances in molecular immunology and machine learning have enabled research into its pathogenesis. There is ongoing research into agents that can be used to intensify initial treatment and accumulating evidence supporting the use of certain rescue regimens for refractory disease over others. There is promise surrounding a new coronary artery aneurysm prediction model. Research into the post-acute morbidity of KD continues. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily reduced the incidence of KD. The NLRP3 inflammasome plays a key role in KD pathogenesis. Intensified initial treatment benefits high-risk patients, yet no intensification regimen shows superiority over another. Corticosteroids, infliximab, or combination therapy with IVIg plus another agent may be superior rescue regimens compared to IVIg alone for refractory KD. The Son score, developed in North America, predicted coronary artery lesions in Japanese and Italian cohorts. Patients with a history of KD may carry long-term physical and emotional burdens that persist into adulthood yet appear to have typical neurocognitive development. Successful transition to adult healthcare presents a challenge.},
}

*Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39625583,
year = {2024},
author = {Arndt, D and Hering, T},
title = {[Workload and mental health of nursing staff in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic-a scoping review].},
journal = {Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39625583},
issn = {1437-1588},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In March 2023, there was no comprehensive overview of job demands, resources, and mental health consequences for nurses in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of country-specific differences with regard to the course/management of the pandemic and the organization of the healthcare system, data from Germany were analyzed specifically.

METHODS: A systematic search in databases (PubMed/Medline, PsycINFO) yielded 50 relevant studies that were included in the scoping review.

RESULTS: The studies were based on cross-sectional designs, mostly from the hospital setting and the first year of the pandemic. Frequently investigated job demands were work intensification, lack of protective equipment, rapidly changing regulations, contact with COVID-19 patients, and pandemic-related worries/anxieties. Pandemic phase and setting-specific demand cascades became clear. Frequently examined mental health problems (including stress experience, anxiety, depression, burnout, and intention to change career/job) were higher in groups with higher levels of reported job demands. Nurses generally reported less favorable values than medical professionals. Social support, reward/appreciation, humor, resilience, and sense of coherence proved to be resources.

CONCLUSION: In preparation for further pandemics and crises, pre-pandemic job demands should be reduced through targeted measures and relevant resources should be strengthened. Pandemic-specific job demands should be systematically reflected and cross-organizational solutions developed. Longitudinal studies using validated instruments and intervention studies should be the focus of future research funding.},
}

@article {pmid39547641,
year = {2025},
author = {Bai, H and Tian, J},
title = {Advancing the understanding of autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA): Global research trends, key themes, and emerging frontiers.},
journal = {Autoimmunity reviews},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {103691},
doi = {10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103691},
pmid = {39547641},
issn = {1873-0183},
mesh = {Humans ; *Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/epidemiology/etiology ; *Adjuvants, Immunologic/adverse effects ; *Bibliometrics ; Biomedical Research/trends ; Inflammation/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study investigates global research on autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA) to address gaps in disciplinary trends, research directions, and emerging topics, aiming to enhance understanding of ASIA's role in immune dysregulation and multi-system diseases.

METHODS: This study uses bibliometric methods, based on data from the Web of Science (WOS) database, to analyze 203 ASIA-related publications from 2011 to 2024. Analytical tools, including VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the bibliometrix R package, were employed to identify key research directions and frontier topics.

RESULTS: Contributions from 40 countries, 318 institutions, and 824 researchers were analyzed, providing a global perspective on ASIA research. Israel contributed the highest publication volume, with Tel Aviv University being the most prolific contributor. Analysis showed that Immunologic Research published the most ASIA-related articles, whereas the Journal of Autoimmunity had the highest citation count. Keyword analysis identified six main research themes, including vaccine and adjuvant components, silicone implant-associated diseases, and connections between specific vaccines and autoimmune conditions. Thematic mapping highlighted key yet under-explored areas, such as immune responses to COVID-19 and HPV vaccines, and responses to specific adjuvants, offering insights into ASIA's complexity.

CONCLUSION: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of ASIA's core themes and trends, highlighting key areas for future research, especially on the immune effects of vaccine adjuvants and implants. Although relying on a single data source, WOS's extensive coverage and citation tracking support the validity of these findings, laying a foundation for future ASIA research and clinical applications.},
}

Humans
*Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/epidemiology/etiology
*Adjuvants, Immunologic/adverse effects
*Bibliometrics
Biomedical Research/trends
Inflammation/immunology

@article {pmid39374775,
year = {2024},
author = {Chen, FH and Hartman, AL and Letinturier, MCV and Antoniadou, V and Baynam, G and Bloom, L and Crimi, M and Della Rocca, MG and Didato, G and Houge, SD and Jonker, A and Kawome, M and Mueller, F and O'Brien, J and Puri, RD and Ryan, N and Thong, MK and Tumienė, B and Parisi, MA},
title = {Telehealth for rare disease care, research, and education across the globe: A review of the literature by the IRDiRC telehealth task force.},
journal = {European journal of medical genetics},
volume = {72},
number = {},
pages = {104977},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejmg.2024.104977},
pmid = {39374775},
issn = {1878-0849},
mesh = {*Telemedicine ; Humans ; *Rare Diseases/therapy ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Biomedical Research ; },
abstract = {The International Rare Diseases Research Consortium (IRDiRC) Telehealth (TH) Task Force explored the use of TH for improving diagnosis, care, research, and education for rare diseases (RDs). The Task Force reviewed related literature published from January 2017 to August 2023, and identified various models and implementation strategies of TH for RD. The Task Force highlighted the reported value and benefits of using TH for RDs, along with the limitations and opportunities. The number of publications sharply increased since 2021, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the rapid adoption of TH in many healthcare settings. One of the major benefits of TH for RDs lies in its capacity to surmount geographical barriers, which helps in overcoming the constraints posed by limited numbers and geographical dispersion of specialists. This was evident during the pandemic when TH was used to maintain a level of continued medical care and research when face-to-face visits were severely restricted. TH, through which clinical research can be decentralized, can also facilitate and enhance RD research by decreasing burden, expanding access, and enhancing efficiency. This will be especially beneficial when coupled with the adoption of digital health technologies, such as mobile health (mHealth) and wearable devices for remote monitoring (i.e., surveillance of outpatient data transmitted through devices), along with big data solutions. TH has also been shown to be an effective means for RD education and peer mentoring, enabling local health care providers (HCPs) to care for RD patients, which indirectly ensures that RD patients get the expertise and multidisciplinary care they need. However, limitations and weaknesses associated with using TH for RD care and research were also identified, including the inability to perform physical examinations and build relationships with HCPs. Therefore, TH has been recommended as a complement to, rather than substitute for, face-to-face consultations. There is also a concern that TH may lead to an amplification of health disparities and inequities related to social determinants of health for those with RDs due to lack of access to TH technologies, inadequate digital literacy, and geographical, socio-cultural, and linguistic barriers. Finally, the Task Force also discussed evidence and knowledge gaps that will benefit from future research efforts to help advance and expand the use of TH for RD care, research, and education.},
}

*Telemedicine
Humans
*Rare Diseases/therapy
COVID-19/epidemiology
Biomedical Research

@article {pmid39629155,
year = {2024},
author = {Holliday, K and Horner, R and Ramesh, P and Bebbington, MB and Kanaris, C},
title = {A Nonhybrid Model of Transitioning Pediatric to Adult Critical Care during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surge: A Single Unit Experience.},
journal = {Journal of pediatric intensive care},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {214-220},
pmid = {39629155},
issn = {2146-4618},
abstract = {To accommodate the unprecedented demand for critical care beds during the first surge of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the United Kingdom, hospitals had to adapt, restructure, and collaborate to provide the best possible care for the pediatric and adult populations. This single-center experience outlines the considerations our hospital took into account when planning for this restructure and the steps taken to ensure a successful execution of the task. Cross-specialty collaboration between the pediatric and adult critical care teams adopted a unique approach to care for only critically ill COVID-19 positive adult patients in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), transferring out critically unwell children at an early stage before the adult intensive care unit (AICU) became overwhelmed (nonhybrid model). This was designed to be in a staggered fashion, before allowing the AICU to overflow. This approach enabled the adult critical care team to support pediatric colleagues in learning the nuances of looking after critically ill adults prior to the service being saturated by the predicted supersurge. The success of the operation hinged on two things. First, PICU staff continuing to work in a familiar environment with their usual clinical team and second, the gradual and controlled admission of adult patients into PICU before the peak in demand for critical care beds. This design helped protect staff morale and build confidence in their new clinical role. The overall case fatality of invasively ventilated patients with COVID-19 in our hospital during the first surge was 32%, which is lower than the global average of 45%. This serves as evidence that this nonhybrid model is safe and sustainable.},
}

@article {pmid39624896,
year = {2024},
author = {Batlle, D and Hassler, L and Wysocki, J},
title = {ACE2, From the Kidney to SARS-CoV-2: Donald Seldin Award Lecture 2023.},
journal = {Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.124.22064},
pmid = {39624896},
issn = {1524-4563},
abstract = {ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) is a monocarboxypeptidase that cleaves Ang II (angiotensin II) among other substrates. ACE2 is present in the cell membrane of many organs, most abundantly in epithelial cells of kidney proximal tubules and the small intestine, and also exists in soluble forms in plasma and body fluids. Membrane-bound ACE2 exerts a renoprotective action by metabolizing Ang II and therefore attenuating the undesirable actions of excess Ang II. Therefore, soluble ACE2, by downregulating this peptide, may exert a therapeutic action. Our laboratory has designed ACE2 truncates that pass the glomerular filtration barrier to target the kidney renin-angiotensin system directly and, therefore, compensate for loss of kidney membrane-bound ACE2. Membrane-bound ACE2 is also the essential receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Soluble ACE2 proteins have been studied as a way to intercept SARS-CoV-2 from binding to membrane-bound ACE2 and prevent cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 altogether. We bioengineered a soluble ACE2 protein, termed ACE2 618-DDC-ABD, with increased binding affinity for SARS-CoV-2 and prolonged duration of action, which, when administered intranasally, provides near-complete protection from lethality in k18hACE2 mice infected with different SARS-CoV-2 variants. The main advantage of soluble ACE2 proteins for the neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 is their immediate onset of action and universality for current and future emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. It is notable that ACE2 is critically involved in 2 dissimilar functions: as a receptor for cell entry of many coronaviruses and as an enzyme in the metabolism of Ang II, and yet in both cases, it is a therapeutic target.},
}

@article {pmid39624316,
year = {2024},
author = {Moulaeian, M and Ferdousmakan, S and Banihashemi, S and Homayounfar, S and Pasupulla, AP and Malekzadegan, Y},
title = {Reactive oxygen species induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection can induce EMT in solid tumors: Potential role of COVID-19 in chemo-resistance and metastasis.},
journal = {Heliyon},
volume = {10},
number = {22},
pages = {e40297},
pmid = {39624316},
issn = {2405-8440},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has raised discussion over the connection between viral infections and the biology of cancer. Research has investigated the relationship between signaling pathways stimulated by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that may be involved in the progression of cancer, resistance to chemotherapy, and metastasis. However, the exact cellular and molecular mechanisms of the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on cancer progression, chemo-resistance, metastasis, and recurrence have not been fully understood. Recently, studies indicate that SARS-CoV-2 might induce inflammatory responses and cytokine storm, which can affect cellular signaling pathways associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We address the possible involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection in treatment resistance, metastatic recurrence, and the activation of EMT in solid tumors in this review. We emphasize the disturbance of mitochondria dysfunction, the overproduction of ROS in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells, and its consequences for the beginning of EMT. We also suggested possible processes associated with ROS influence on EMT, inflammatory signaling pathways, and viral interaction with mitochondria. Gaining knowledge about ROS's function in SARS CoV-2 condition, promoting EMT will help to develop effective strategies during therapy treatments by lowering drug resistance and metastatic recurrence in cancer patient.},
}

@article {pmid39624267,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhao, Y and Wei, Y and Ye, C and Cao, J and Zhou, X and Xie, M and Qing, J and Chen, Z},
title = {Application of recombinase polymerase amplification with lateral flow assay to pathogen point-of-care diagnosis.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1475922},
pmid = {39624267},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/methods ; *Recombinases/metabolism ; *Point-of-Care Testing ; *Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods ; COVID-19/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification ; Point-of-Care Systems ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; },
abstract = {Since the outbreak of the new coronavirus, point-of-care diagnostics based on nucleic acid testing have become a requirement for the development of pathogen diagnostics, which require the ability to accurately, rapidly, and conveniently detect pathogens. Conventional nucleic acid amplification techniques no longer meet the requirements for pathogen detection in low-resource, low-skill environments because they require specialist equipment, complex operations, and long detection times. Therefore, recombinant polymerase amplification (RPA) is becoming an increasingly important method in today's nucleic acid detection technology because it can amplify nucleic acids in 20-30 minutes at a constant temperature, greatly reducing the dependence on specialist equipment and technicians. RPA products are primarily detected through methods such as real-time fluorescence, gel electrophoresis, lateral flow assays (LFAs), and other techniques. Among these, LFAs allow for the rapid detection of amplification products within minutes through the visualization of results, offering convenient operation and low cost. Therefore, the combination of RPA with LFA technology has significant advantages and holds broad application prospects in point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, particularly in low-resource settings. Here, we focus on the principles of RPA combined with LFAs, their application to pathogen diagnosis, their main advantages and limitations, and some improvements in the methods.},
}

Humans
*Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/methods
*Recombinases/metabolism
*Point-of-Care Testing
*Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods
COVID-19/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification
Point-of-Care Systems
Sensitivity and Specificity

@article {pmid39624100,
year = {2024},
author = {Huan, X and Zhan, J and Gao, H},
title = {Research progress of spike protein mutation of SARS-CoV-2 mutant strain and antibody development.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1407149},
pmid = {39624100},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics ; Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *Mutation ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology/therapeutic use ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology/therapeutic use ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease with a very high infectious rate caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2). Because SARS-CoV-2 is easy to mutate, the continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variant strains not only enhances the infectivity of the SARS-CoV-2 but also brings great obstacles to the treatment of COVID-19. Neutralizing antibodies have achieved good results in the clinical application of the novel coronavirus pneumonia, which can be used for pre-infection protection and treatment of novel coronavirus patients. This review makes a detailed introduction to the mutation characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on the molecular mechanism of mutation affecting the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2, and the impact of mutation on monoclonal antibody therapy, providing scientific reference for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 variant strains and the research and development of antibody drugs.},
}

*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics
Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*Mutation
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology/therapeutic use
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology/therapeutic use
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid39623895,
year = {2024},
author = {Wiedemann, H and Cloes, JO and Paschke, K and Thomasius, R},
title = {[Not Available].},
journal = {Praxis der Kinderpsychologie und Kinderpsychiatrie},
volume = {73},
number = {7},
pages = {604-626},
doi = {10.13109/prkk.2024.73.7.604},
pmid = {39623895},
issn = {0032-7034},
mesh = {Humans ; Adolescent ; Child ; *Social Media ; *Video Games/psychology ; *Internet Addiction Disorder/psychology/epidemiology/therapy ; Behavior, Addictive/psychology/epidemiology/therapy ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; },
abstract = {New Media and Addiction in Youth New media, such as digital games, social media, and video streaming services, have emerged as fundamental channels for socialization and leisure activities among young people. Platforms such as TikTok, Fortnite, and YouTube do not only provide entertainment, enjoyment, and opportunities for social connection, but also carry the risk of excessive use. Particularly vulnerable youth, who turn to media to escape real-world problems and conflicts, can quickly become trapped in a vicious cycle, resulting in problematic usage habits with significant psychosocial consequences. This review presents the current state of research on Digital Media Use Disorders (DMUD) in youth. It outlines diagnostic criteria, presents recent data on epidemiology, etiology, and treatment approaches, and discusses implications for prevention. DMUD in youth remains a serious health issue in the aftermath of the pandemic. Parents and schools play a crucial role in guiding children and adolescents towards media literacy and self-regulated use of digital media. But also game and platform providers, who often employ manipulative mechanisms that prevent a self-regulated use, need to be held accountable. The introduction of the European Digital Services Act represents a crucial step in this direction.},
}

Humans
Adolescent
Child
*Social Media
*Video Games/psychology
*Internet Addiction Disorder/psychology/epidemiology/therapy
Behavior, Addictive/psychology/epidemiology/therapy
Cross-Sectional Studies

@article {pmid39623540,
year = {2025},
author = {Butler, M and McArthur, EC},
title = {mHealth for Women with Pregnancies with Fetal Anomalies: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {MCN. The American journal of maternal child nursing},
volume = {50},
number = {1},
pages = {39-45},
pmid = {39623540},
issn = {1539-0683},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Telemedicine ; *COVID-19 ; Congenital Abnormalities/diagnosis ; Mobile Applications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: The purpose of this review is to investigate the current landscape of evidence-based mHealth resources designed to support pregnant patients with fetal anomalies, with a focus on enhancing maternal wellbeing, disseminating relevant information, and facilitating communication with nurses, physicians, and other health care professionals.

STUDY DESIGN: Using the JBI (formerly known as the Joanna Briggs Institute) scoping review protocol and the PRISMA-ScR framework, we conducted a comprehensive search across databases including CINAHL, Medline, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

METHODS: A keyword search was conducted, resulting in 227 unique records. Articles discussing mobile apps for pregnancies with a fetal diagnosis or fetal risk for anomaly were included, including hospital-affiliated or telehealth apps that were adapted for use with this specific population.

RESULTS: Ten articles were selected for inclusion. Our analysis identified several predominant themes. The surge of mHealth, influenced in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, has provided critical access to care for pregnant patients with fetal anomalies through mobile platforms. Comprehensive resource tools integrating informational components via mHealth are needed to offer flexibility to patients as well as nurses, physicians, and other health care professionals. Adopting a patient-driven approach in developing mHealth resources is important in meeting the needs of patients, their families, and their health care team.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: A framework for the development and implementation of high-fidelity mHealth resources tailored to this vulnerable population is needed. Emphasizing a patient-centered approach in the creation of mHealth resources is paramount to ensuring their effectiveness and usefulness for pregnant women experiencing fetal anomalies, their families, and the perinatal health care team.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*Telemedicine
*COVID-19
Congenital Abnormalities/diagnosis
Mobile Applications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39623458,
year = {2024},
author = {Li, H and Zong, Y and Li, J and Zhou, Z and Chang, Y and Shi, W and Guo, J},
title = {Research trends and hotspots on global influenza and inflammatory response based on bibliometrics.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {313},
pmid = {39623458},
issn = {1743-422X},
support = {2023CXMMTCM009//Unveiling the List of Commanders" of the Institute of Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Institute of Big Health, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center/ ; 2022rcyb025//Anhui University of Chinese Medicine High-level Talent Support Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Bibliometrics ; Biomedical Research/trends ; COVID-19/epidemiology/immunology/prevention & control ; *Inflammation/epidemiology ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; *Post-Infectious Disorders/epidemiology/pathology ; },
abstract = {The influenza virus is considered as a kind of significant zoonotic infectious disease identified to date, with severe infections in humans characterized by excessive inflammation and tissue damage, usually resulting in serious complications. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying inflammation after influenza infection have been extensively studied, bibliometric analysis on the research hotspots and developing trends in this field has not been published heretofore. Articles related to influenza and inflammatory response were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database (1992-2024) and analyzed using various visualization tools. Finally, this study collected a total of 2,176 relevant articles, involving 13,184 researchers, 2,647 institutions, 78 countries/regions, and published in 723 journals. Most articles were published in the United States (928 articles), China (450 articles) and the United Kingdom (158 articles). Ross Vlahos was the most productive author. Furthermore, some journals, such as PLoS One and Frontiers in Immunology, made much contribution to the topic. The future research trends include airway stem cells and neuroendocrine cells as new directions for the treatment of influenza complications, as well as measures related to prevention, treatment, and research and development based on the COVID-19 pandemic. Through bibliometric analysis and summary of inflammatory response of influenza-related articles, this study ultimately summarizes new directions for preventing and treating influenza.},
}

Humans
*Bibliometrics
Biomedical Research/trends
COVID-19/epidemiology/immunology/prevention & control
*Inflammation/epidemiology
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology
*Post-Infectious Disorders/epidemiology/pathology

@article {pmid39622507,
year = {2024},
author = {Cha, CD and Park, CS and Shin, HC and Han, J and Choi, JE and Kim, JH and Jung, KW and Lee, SB and Nam, SE and Yoon, TI and Kang, YJ and Kim, Z and Jung, SY and Kim, HA and , },
title = {Breast Cancer Statistics in Korea, 2021.},
journal = {Journal of breast cancer},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4048/jbc.2024.0213},
pmid = {39622507},
issn = {1738-6756},
abstract = {The Korean Breast Cancer Society (KBCS) has collected nationwide registry data on clinicopathologic characteristics and treatment since 1996. This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of breast cancer in Korea and assess changes in breast cancer statistics for 2021 using data from the KBCS registry and the Korean Central Cancer Registry. In 2021, 34,628 women were newly diagnosed with breast cancer. The median age of women diagnosed with breast cancer was 53.4 years, with the highest incidence occurring in the 40-49 age group. The most common molecular subtype was hormone receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, accounting for 69.1% of cases, while HER2-positive subtypes comprised 19.3%. During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the national breast cancer screening rate declined. However, the incidence of early-stage breast cancer (stages 0 and I) continued to increase, accounting for 65.6% of newly diagnosed cases in 2021. Our results showed that the overall survival rate for patients with breast cancer has improved, primarily due to a rise in early-stage diagnoses and advancements in treatment.},
}

@article {pmid39622382,
year = {2024},
author = {Wen, Z and Ma, R and Chen, J and Deng, Y and Li, H and Huang, B and Han, F and Li, C and Chen, Y and Wang, H and Leng, SX and Sun, S and Ning, X},
title = {Risk factors for delirium in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Neuroscience},
volume = {565},
number = {},
pages = {172-181},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.11.036},
pmid = {39622382},
issn = {1873-7544},
abstract = {Delirium is one of the serious neurological complications of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19, especially in older patients. There is currently no meta-analysis of risk factors for delirium in patients with COVID-19. This study aimed to identify potential risk factors for delirium in patients with COVID-19 through a meta-analysis of observational clinical studies. In conducting this analysis, literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, and study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale (NOS). Data were extracted independently by two reviewers and pooled using either fixed effects or random effects models based on the results of heterogeneity testing. As a result of this meta-analysis, a total of 21 studies were included, including 10,147 patients. The analysis revealed the identification of 26 predisposing factors and 54 precipitating factors associated with COVID-19-related delirium. Notably, the administration of hydrocortisone and azithromycin, among other specific medications designated for COVID-19, exhibited a potential to be positively associated with the incidence of delirium in patients afflicted with COVID-19. In conclusion, the present study identified potential predisposing and precipitating factors linked with delirium in COVID-19 patients. It is anticipated that these results will have a considerable impact on the management and treatment of delirium in COVID-19 patients.},
}

@article {pmid39622042,
year = {2024},
author = {Narayan, S and Gooderham, E and Spencer, S and McCracken, RK and Hedden, L},
title = {Virtual Primary Care for People With Opioid Use Disorder: Scoping Review of Current Strategies, Benefits, and Challenges.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {e54015},
doi = {10.2196/54015},
pmid = {39622042},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; *Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy/therapy ; *Primary Health Care ; *Telemedicine ; COVID-19 ; Health Services Accessibility ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is a pressing need to understand the implications of the rapid adoption of virtual primary care for people with opioid use disorder. Potential impacts, including disruptions to opiate agonist therapies, and the prospect of improved service accessibility remain underexplored.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review synthesized current literature on virtual primary care for people with opioid use disorder with a specific focus on benefits, challenges, and strategies.

METHODS: We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodological approach for scoping reviews and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist for reporting our findings. We conducted searches in MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL Complete, and Embase using our developed search strategy with no date restrictions. We incorporated all study types that included the 3 concepts (ie, virtual care, primary care, and people with opioid use disorder). We excluded research on minors, asynchronous virtual modalities, and care not provided in a primary care setting. We used Covidence to screen and extract data, pulling information on study characteristics, health system features, patient outcomes, and challenges and benefits of virtual primary care. We conducted inductive content analysis and calculated descriptive statistics. We appraised the quality of the studies using the Quality Assessment With Diverse Studies tool and categorized the findings using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

RESULTS: Our search identified 1474 studies. We removed 36.36% (536/1474) of these as duplicates, leaving 938 studies for title and abstract screening. After a double review process, we retained 3% (28/938) of the studies for extraction. Only 14% (4/28) of the studies were conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, and most (15/28, 54%) used quantitative methodologies. We summarized objectives and results, finding that most studies (18/28, 64%) described virtual primary care delivered via phone rather than video and that many studies (16/28, 57%) reported changes in appointment modality. Through content analysis, we identified that policies and regulations could either facilitate (11/28, 39%) or impede (7/28, 25%) the provision of care virtually. In addition, clinicians' perceptions of patient stability (5/28, 18%) and the heightened risks associated with virtual care (10/28, 36%) can serve as a barrier to offering virtual services. For people with opioid use disorder, increased health care accessibility was a noteworthy benefit (13/28, 46%) to the adoption of virtual visits, whereas issues regarding access to technology and digital literacy stood out as the most prominent challenge (12/28, 43%).

CONCLUSIONS: The available studies highlight the potential for enhancing accessibility and continuous access to care for people with opioid use disorder using virtual modalities. Future research and policies must focus on bridging gaps to ensure that virtual primary care does not exacerbate or entrench health inequities.},
}

Humans
*Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy/therapy
*Primary Health Care
*Telemedicine
COVID-19
Health Services Accessibility

@article {pmid39621659,
year = {2024},
author = {Idriss-Wheeler, D and Bancroft, X and Bouraleh, S and Buy, M and Yaya, S and El-Khatib, Z},
title = {Exploring access to health and social supports for intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors during stressful life events (SLEs)-A scoping review.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {19},
number = {12},
pages = {e0313613},
pmid = {39621659},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *Intimate Partner Violence/psychology ; *Social Support ; *Survivors/psychology ; Stress, Psychological ; Health Services Accessibility ; Female ; COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Life Change Events ; Male ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) often face increased incidents of violence during stressful life events (SLEs) such as economic recessions, environmental disasters, and pandemics. These events can diminish the effectiveness of both formal (e.g., health, social, justice, labor, community) and informal (e.g., friends, family, neighbors) support systems. Additionally, SLEs exacerbate existing health and social inequities, making it necessary to understand the accessibility of support services during these times. This scoping review investigates access to services by individuals experiencing IPV during SLEs in high-income countries.

APPROACH: A comprehensive search was conducted across several electronic databases including MEDLINE (OVID), Embase (OVID), PsychInfo (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCO), Global Health (EBSCO), Gender Watch (ProQuest), Web of Science, and Applied Social Sciences Index & Abstracts (ProQuest), along with the search engine Google Scholar. This search, which imposed no date restrictions, was extended through May 22nd, 2024. Key search terms were developed from prior literature and in consultation with an expert librarian, focusing on 'stressful life events,' 'intimate partner violence,' and 'access to services.'. Each study was screened and extracted by two reviewers and conflicts were resolved through discussion or a third reviewer.

RESULTS: The search across eight databases and citation searching resulted in a total of 7396 potentially relevant articles. After removing 1968 duplicates and screening 5428 based on titles and abstracts, 200 articles underwent full abstract review. Ultimately, 74 articles satisfied the inclusion criteria and were selected for further analysis. The analysis focused on barriers and facilitators to access, identifying challenges within Survivors' support systems, redirected resources during crises, and complex control dynamics and marginalization. Over 90% of the literature included covered the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing these challenges requires innovative strategies, sustained funding, and targeted interventions for high-risk subgroups.

CONCLUSION: This scoping review systematically outlined the challenges and enabling factors influencing the availability of support services for Survivors of IPV during SLEs. It underscores the need for robust, culturally sensitive health and social support mechanisms, and policies. Such measures are essential to better protect and assist IPV Survivors and their service providers during these critical times. Furthermore, it is imperative to integrate the insights and expertise of the violence against women (VAW) sector into emergency planning and policy-making to ensure comprehensive and effective responses that address the unique needs of Survivors in crises.},
}

Humans
*Intimate Partner Violence/psychology
*Social Support
*Survivors/psychology
Stress, Psychological
Health Services Accessibility
Female
COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Life Change Events
Male

@article {pmid39621522,
year = {2024},
author = {Yildiz, H and Budak, S},
title = {The place and importance of palliative care in the fight against COVID-19.},
journal = {International journal of palliative nursing},
volume = {30},
number = {11},
pages = {592-598},
doi = {10.12968/ijpn.2024.30.11.592},
pmid = {39621522},
issn = {2052-286X},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Palliative Care/organization & administration ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In a pandemic, existing palliative care units may be inadequate and palliative care may need to be provided in other hospital units.

AIMS: To review and improve the palliative care approach applied during a pandemic.

METHODS: Studies published between 2019 and 2020 were examined using the keywords 'fighting against COVID-19 'and 'organisation' in the PubMed, Ebsco, ScienceDirect and Web of Science databases.

FINDINGS: It was determined that the US Mass Critical Care Task Force created a framework for organising palliative care in the fight against the pandemic. It was determined that institutions and organisations implemented practices aligned with this framework during the pandemic. However, due to the evaluation, this framework was limited, and its scope should be expanded.

CONCLUSIONS: The recommendations in this review and indicated in italics will improve the palliative care approach to be applied during the pandemic.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Palliative Care/organization & administration
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing

@article {pmid39621036,
year = {2024},
author = {Ketsekioulafis, I and Katsos, K and Kolentinis, C and Kouzos, D and Moraitis, K and Spiliopoulou, C and Sakelliadis, EI},
title = {Humanitarian forensic medicine: a systematic review.},
journal = {International journal of legal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39621036},
issn = {1437-1596},
abstract = {Various concerns relating to international humanitarian law and human rights were risen by natural catastrophes (tsunamis, floods, fires), the Covid-19 pandemic, the epidemic breakouts of Ebola, as well as the significant migrant wave observed in the Mediterranean region. Forensic Medicine has direct interactions with both domestic and international law, and thus is frequently asked to provide solutions for these issues. The term "Humanitarian Forensic Action" (HFA), which refers to the application of forensic science to serve humanitarian endeavors, was created. The management of crises including armed conflicts, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises is therefore related to HFA. HFA is a specialized field of forensic sciences that is used to handle the identification of the deceased and human remains, as well as to contribute to the management of the dead, the management of mass disasters, and the investigation of abuse and torture. The psychosocial effects that these tragic events have on the victims, their loved ones, and society at large represent another HFA-related field. Firstly this systematic review aims to present all available international literature that discusses HFA as a unique forensic discipline. Secondly, through this review, it is hoped that HFA awareness will be risen among forensic practitioners, thus allowing improved adoption in general and future development as a branch of forensic sciences. As far as we are aware, there isn't another systematic study that presents the entirety of HFA's branches at once.},
}

@article {pmid39620218,
year = {2024},
author = {Eker, F and Duman, H and Ertürk, M and Karav, S},
title = {The potential of lactoferrin as antiviral and immune-modulating agent in viral infectious diseases.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1402135},
pmid = {39620218},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {*Lactoferrin/pharmacology ; Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology/drug effects ; Animals ; Immunomodulating Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; },
abstract = {Emerging infectious diseases are caused by unpredictable viruses with the dangerous potential to trigger global pandemics. These viruses typically initiate infection by utilizing the anionic structures of host cell surface receptors to gain entry. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a multifunctional glycoprotein with multiple properties such as antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Due to its cationic structure, Lf naturally interacts with certain host cell receptors, such as heparan sulfate proteoglycans, as well as viral particles and other receptors that are targeted by viruses. Therefore, Lf may interfere with virus-host cell interactions by acting as a receptor competitor for viruses. Herein we summarize studies in which this competition was investigated with SARS-CoV-2, Zika, Dengue, Hepatitis and Influenza viruses in vitro. These studies have demonstrated not only Lf's competitive properties, but also its potential intracellular impact on host cells, such as enhancing cell survival and reducing infection efficiency by inhibiting certain viral enzymes. In addition, the immunomodulatory effect of Lf is highlighted, as it can influence the activity of specific immune cells and regulate cytokine release, thereby enhancing the host's response to viral infections. Collectively, these properties promote the potential of Lf as a promising candidate for research in viral infectious diseases.},
}

*Lactoferrin/pharmacology
Humans
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Virus Diseases/immunology/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology/drug effects
Animals
Immunomodulating Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
COVID-19/immunology/virology

@article {pmid39619752,
year = {2025},
author = {Sahebalzamani, E and Alijanpour, S and Saadat, P},
title = {Olfactory dysfunction in COVID-19; Self-report or olfactory dysfunction test?.},
journal = {Caspian journal of internal medicine},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {37-46},
pmid = {39619752},
issn = {2008-6164},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 developed a sudden onset of smelling disorders. Researchers used self-reported or special tests to study this issue. We aimed to investigate whether quantitative-test smell disorders have a considerable difference from self-reported or not.

METHODS: We searched 554 studies published between December 2019 to September 2020 by the PICO model. Our search strategies were based on MeSH terms in the electronic databases Web of Science (136 articles), Scopus (84 articles), and PubMed (334 articles). The duplicated articles were excluded, then the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidance were utilized. Finally, we divided the studies into two (self-report (33 articles) and specific-test (9 articles)) groups.

RESULTS: 33 (80%) articles expressed olfactory dysfunction by self-report of patients and 9(20%) studies were conducted by a specific test. Only three studies, one in self-report; ((internal reliability, Cronbach α = 0.84) and validity (r = -0.60, p < 0.001)) and two in specific-test groups; ((test-retest r=0.94) and another study (test-retest r >0.7)) conducted validity and reliability. Self-reported studies published a various range of prevalence (20% _97%) in patients with COVID-19. COVID-19 patients with a specific-test group were found to have a primary incidence of anosmia of over 65%, even reaching 98% depending on the types of tests.

CONCLUSION: Self-reporting of COVID-19 detection can be affected by sociodemographic factors. Although self-reported questionnaires are economical and easy to use, standardized tests provide more reliable comparisons and professional assessments. Therefore, standardized tests are recommended for more accurate screening over self-reporting.},
}

@article {pmid39618227,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhang, H and Liu, Y and Liu, Y and Luo, Y},
title = {Musculoskeletal Disorders in COVID-19 Surveillance Staff Members: An Analysis of Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Coping Strategies.},
journal = {British journal of hospital medicine (London, England : 2005)},
volume = {85},
number = {11},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.12968/hmed.2024.0423},
pmid = {39618227},
issn = {1750-8460},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Musculoskeletal Diseases/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; *Occupational Diseases/epidemiology ; *Adaptation, Psychological ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Middle Aged ; China/epidemiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Ergonomics ; Coping Skills ; },
abstract = {Aims/Background During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the COVID-19 surveillance staff members experienced an increased risk for musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, it is necessary to further investigate the causal factors stemming from COVID-19 surveillance work, especially nucleic acid testing, and establish their relationship with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) by building upon the previous research. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs and the major risks faced by the COVID-19 surveillance staff members. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2022. The Quick Exposure Check (QEC), Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were used to evaluate ergonomic factors, musculoskeletal symptoms and pressure among 131 COVID-19 surveillance staff members in four hospitals in South-central Henan Province. Additionally, data regarding the coping strategies adopted by the respondents for lowing the risk of developing WMSDs were collected using a self-report questionnaire. Results The QEC results showed that the back, neck, and should/arm of the COVID-19 surveillance staff members bore high ergonomic loads, while the wrist suffered a medium load. The neck (75.6%), shoulder (66.4%), upper back (58%), and wrist (55.7%) were at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorder. Most of the respondents claimed a low sense of achievement (124, 94.7%) and slightly less than half of them had endured emotional exhaustion at work (61, 46.6%). Prolonged period of maintaining the same posture at work, awkward bending or twisting of back side, task repetition and so on were the perceived job risk factors precipitating WMSDs among the participants in this study. The top three coping strategies for lowering the risk of WMSDs included adjusting the plinth/bed height (49.6%), utilizing different parts of the body at work (47.3%), and taking short breaks when required (33.6%). Conclusion Prolonged large-scale nucleic acid detection can aggravate the musculoskeletal injuries of the neck, shoulder, upper back, and wrist in COVID-19 surveillance staff members. Prevention measures for musculoskeletal injuries factors must be in place to deter such incidence at work.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Musculoskeletal Diseases/epidemiology
Cross-Sectional Studies
Male
Female
Adult
Risk Factors
Prevalence
*Occupational Diseases/epidemiology
*Adaptation, Psychological
*SARS-CoV-2
Middle Aged
China/epidemiology
Surveys and Questionnaires
Ergonomics
Coping Skills

@article {pmid39618167,
year = {2024},
author = {Bastani, MN and Jalilian, S and Bahreiny, SS and Makvandi, M and Aghaei, M and Mansouri, Z and Karamali, N and Sakhavarz, T and Amraei, M and Harooni, E},
title = {Update prognostic potency of surfactant protein D (SP-D) in the COVID-19 landscape: an In-depth meta-analytical exploration.},
journal = {Biomarkers in medicine},
volume = {18},
number = {24},
pages = {1135-1148},
doi = {10.1080/17520363.2024.2432325},
pmid = {39618167},
issn = {1752-0371},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood/diagnosis/mortality ; *Pulmonary Surfactant-Associated Protein D/blood ; Prognosis ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Biomarkers/blood ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Surfactant Protein D (SP-D), a key component of the innate immune system, has attracted significant interest for its potential role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of COVID-19. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to clarify the prognostic importance of SP-D levels in COVID-19 patients.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, covering studies published from January 2000 to January 2024. The inclusion criteria focused on studies measuring SP-D levels in the serum or plasma of COVID-19 patients, comparing severe and non-severe cases. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model to assess overall effect sizes. Meta-regressions and subgroup analyses were performed to identify potential sources of heterogeneity, including patient age, assay techniques, and gender ratio.

RESULTS: The meta-analysis incorporated data from nine studies involving 5,410 COVID-19 patients. Elevated SP-D levels were significantly correlated with increased disease severity, yielding an SMD of 0.642 (95% CI: 0.314 to 0.870; p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis confirms the prognostic significance of SP-D in the context of COVID-19. Elevated SP-D levels are associated with severe disease outcomes, highlighting its potential as a prognostic biomarker.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood/diagnosis/mortality
*Pulmonary Surfactant-Associated Protein D/blood
Prognosis
*SARS-CoV-2
Biomarkers/blood
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid39617454,
year = {2024},
author = {Uraki, R},
title = {[Analysis of RNA virus pathogenicity and development of novel prevention methods.].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {57-66},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.74.57},
pmid = {39617454},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics ; Animals ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology ; *Zika Virus/pathogenicity/genetics ; Zika Virus Infection/prevention & control/virology ; RNA Viruses/pathogenicity/genetics ; Male ; Testis/virology ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; RNA Virus Infections/prevention & control/virology ; Virulence ; Culicidae/virology ; Salivary Glands/virology ; },
abstract = {In the first quarter of the 21st century, infectious diseases caused by RNA viruses such as SARS, pandemic influenza viruses, MERS, Zika virus, and SARS-CoV-2 have spread. When such emerging and re-emerging viruses occur and spread, it is important for public health to quickly analyze the characteristics of these viruses and develop preventive measures. We found that the Zika virus causes damage to the testes, leading to testicular atrophy; that a vaccine based on mosquito salivary gland proteins suppresses mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission/infection; that the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants BA.2, BA.4, and BA.5 isolated from patients is comparable to that of Omicron BA.1; and that a strategy targeting regulatory T cells to enhance vaccine efficacy is effective. Here, I would like to briefly discuss these findings.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics
Animals
*COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology
*Zika Virus/pathogenicity/genetics
Zika Virus Infection/prevention & control/virology
RNA Viruses/pathogenicity/genetics
Male
Testis/virology
COVID-19 Vaccines
RNA Virus Infections/prevention & control/virology
Virulence
Culicidae/virology
Salivary Glands/virology

@article {pmid39617453,
year = {2024},
author = {Ito, J},
title = {[Data-Driven Research for Understanding and Predicting Viral Epidemics and Evolution].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {49-56},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.74.49},
pmid = {39617453},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/virology ; *Genome, Viral/genetics ; Big Data ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Epidemics ; Computational Biology/methods ; Virus Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; },
abstract = {The era of big data has begun in life sciences, and virology is no exception. Especially since COVID-19, virology has become one of the most genome data-rich fields in life sciences. In this article, I will introduce the new paradigm of "understanding and predicting viral epidemics and evolution, " made possible by the emergence of vast amounts of genome data, focusing on my research to date. Additionally, I would like to introduce our efforts toward advancing the field of viral informatics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/virology
*Genome, Viral/genetics
Big Data
SARS-CoV-2/genetics
Evolution, Molecular
Epidemics
Computational Biology/methods
Virus Diseases/epidemiology/virology

@article {pmid39617451,
year = {2024},
author = {Hashimoto, R and Masui, A and Gotoh, S and Takayama, K},
title = {[Development of human iPS cell-derived alveolar and airway models using micropatterning plate for SARS-CoV-2 research].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {35-44},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.74.35},
pmid = {39617451},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {Humans ; *Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells/virology/cytology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *COVID-19/virology ; *Organoids/virology ; Cell Culture Techniques/methods ; Pulmonary Alveoli/virology/cytology ; Models, Biological ; },
abstract = {Advanced cell culture systems including human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and organoids enable the generation of intricate structural and functional organ models in vitro. Application of these advanced cell culture systems to research on a wide range of diseases including infectious diseases is underway. Due to the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, advanced cell culture systems in the virus research field are rapidly becoming popular. Respiratory models generated using human iPS cells and organoid technology are useful for analyzing respiratory cell responses caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. However, there is still room for the development of an apical-out model, which is essential for simple virus infection experiments, and a model that can analyze host responses in the alveoli and airways. In this study, we developed human iPS cell-derived alveolar and airway models with an apical-out structure by using a micropatterning plate. In the alveolar model, we confirmed that this model contains abundant type II alveolar epithelial (AT2) cells, which are the target cells of SARS-CoV-2 in the alveoli. In the airway model, we confirmed that this model contains abundant ciliated cells, which are the target cells of SARS-CoV-2 in the airway. Using our alveolar and airway models, we can analyze the differences in infection efficiency and host response of each SARS-CoV-2 variant. We hope that the human iPS cell-derived alveolar and airway models generated using a micropatterning plate will be used to analyze not only SARS-CoV-2 but also a wide range of respiratory viruses.},
}

Humans
*Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells/virology/cytology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*COVID-19/virology
*Organoids/virology
Cell Culture Techniques/methods
Pulmonary Alveoli/virology/cytology
Models, Biological

@article {pmid39617194,
year = {2024},
author = {Santoni, M and Pistis, M},
title = {Maternal Immune Activation and Endocannabinoid System: Focus on Two-Hit Models of Schizophrenia.},
journal = {Biological psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopsych.2024.11.015},
pmid = {39617194},
issn = {1873-2402},
abstract = {The devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the significant threat infectious diseases pose to our society. Pregnancy represents a particularly vulnerable period for infections, which can compromise maternal health and increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. Preclinical and clinical investigations suggest a potential association between maternal immune activation (MIA), triggered by viral or bacterial infections, and the increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. Genetic and environmental factors might contribute to the overall risk. Hence, the two-hit hypothesis of schizophrenia suggests that MIA could act as a first trigger, with subsequent factors, such as stress or drug abuse, exacerbating latent abnormalities. A growing body of research focuses on the interaction between MIA and cannabis use during adolescence, considering the role of the endocannabinoid system in neurodevelopment and in neurodevelopmental disorders. The endocannabinoid system, crucial for fetal brain development, may be disrupted by MIA, leading to adverse outcomes in adulthood. Recent research indicates the endocannabinoid system's significant role in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders in preclinical models. However, findings on adolescent cannabinoid exposure in MIA-exposed animals reveal unexpected complexities, with several studies failing to support the exacerbation of MIA-related abnormalities. This review delves into the functional implications of the endocannabinoid system in MIA models, emphasizing 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) signaling's role in synaptic plasticity and neuroinflammation, and its relevance to the two-hit model of schizophrenia.},
}

@article {pmid39616498,
year = {2024},
author = {Schoon, I and Shukla, S and Verma, S and Terol, E and Da Cunha, JM},
title = {The COVID-19 pandemic and young people's civic engagement: A scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of research on adolescence : the official journal of the Society for Research on Adolescence},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jora.13039},
pmid = {39616498},
issn = {1532-7795},
support = {//Society for Research on Adolescence/ ; //John Templeton Foundation/ ; //ICDSS/SRA COVID-19 Scholars Program/ ; },
abstract = {This scoping review summarizes evidence regarding the impact of civic and community engagement of young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing that the global pandemic not only brought challenges but also new opportunities to take a stance and to actively engage in communities and society, this review assesses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people's civic engagement across different cultural contexts and identifies key factors and processes that enable young people to engage with their community or society at large. We summarize evidence from 27 original research papers, one thought piece, and four reports conducted by global organizations such as the United Nations and OECD. Relevant research was conducted in the United States, Europe, China, Southeast Asia, South Africa, and New Zealand, addressing the development of leadership skills, civic responsibility, critical consciousness, civic and community engagement, as well as social integration. Key factors that facilitated civic engagement include national investments in online learning facilities, support for basic needs (such as education, health, and employment), and promotion and encouragement of local initiatives. The studies differed in their focus depending on the socio-cultural context encountered and future research needs to consider cultural variations and different demands on young people to inform effective practices for supporting young people's active engagement in society.},
}

@article {pmid39615348,
year = {2025},
author = {Kupikowska-Stobba, B and Niu, H and Klojdová, I and Agregán, R and Lorenzo, JM and Kasprzak, M},
title = {Controlled lipid digestion in the development of functional and personalized foods for a tailored delivery of dietary fats.},
journal = {Food chemistry},
volume = {466},
number = {},
pages = {142151},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.142151},
pmid = {39615348},
issn = {1873-7072},
mesh = {Humans ; *Digestion ; *Dietary Fats/metabolism ; *Functional Food/analysis ; Lipid Metabolism ; Obesity/metabolism/diet therapy/physiopathology ; COVID-19/metabolism/prevention & control ; Gastrointestinal Tract/metabolism ; },
abstract = {In recent decades, obesity and its associated health issues have risen dramatically. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this trend, underscoring the pressing need for new strategies to manage weight. Functional foods designed to modulate lipid digestion and absorption rates and thereby reduce the assimilation of dietary fats have gained increasing attention in food science as a potentially safer alternative to weight-loss medications. This review provides insights into controlled lipid digestion and customized delivery of fats. The first section introduces basic concepts of lipid digestion and absorption in the human gastrointestinal tract. The second section discusses factors regulating lipid digestion and absorption rates, as well as strategies for modulating lipid assimilation from food. The third section focuses on applications of controlled lipid digestion in developing personalized foods designed for specific consumer groups, with particular emphasis on two target populations: overweight individuals and infants.},
}

Humans
*Digestion
*Dietary Fats/metabolism
*Functional Food/analysis
Lipid Metabolism
Obesity/metabolism/diet therapy/physiopathology
COVID-19/metabolism/prevention & control
Gastrointestinal Tract/metabolism

@article {pmid39615346,
year = {2024},
author = {Cosma, C and Radi, A and Cattano, R and Zanobini, P and Bonaccorsi, G and Lorini, C and Del Riccio, M},
title = {Exploring Chatbot contributions to enhancing vaccine literacy and uptake: A scoping review of the literature.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {44},
number = {},
pages = {126559},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126559},
pmid = {39615346},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The increasing integration of chatbots across various sectors marks a significant shift in digital communication, and their role in healthcare makes no exception. This scoping review aims to systematically examine the role of chatbots in the perspective of organizational vaccine literacy, particularly in enhancing vaccine literacy and facilitating the dissemination of vaccine-related information, evaluating the potential of chatbots to transform vaccination communication strategies and improve health education outcomes.

METHODS: This scoping review adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and PsycInfo was conducted from January 2020 to October 30, 2024, using keywords related to "chatbots" and "vaccination." Study selection involved a two-stage screening process, focusing on studies reporting the use of chatbots to improve vaccine literacy and uptake. Data were thematically analyzed and presented in a narrative format.

RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were included in the review: these studies demonstrate the effectiveness of chatbots in enhancing vaccine literacy and acceptance, mainly focusing on COVID-19 but also addressing HPV and childhood vaccinations. They highlight chatbots' role in improving the vaccine-literate environment through countering misinformation and improving communication with healthcare professionals, showcasing their potential to significantly influence public health outcomes and their adaptability to diverse populations and geographic regions.

CONCLUSIONS: These digital assistants could provide personalized and up-to-date information, improving not only knowledge but also attitudes and intentions towards vaccinations.},
}

@article {pmid39615145,
year = {2024},
author = {Forero-Peña, DA and Carrión-Nessi, FS and Omaña-Ávila, ÓD and Mendoza-Millán, DL and Moncada-Ortega, A and Landaeta, ME},
title = {COVID-19 in Venezuela: Costs and challenges of management severe cases at home in a crisis setting.},
journal = {Archives of medical research},
volume = {56},
number = {3},
pages = {103126},
doi = {10.1016/j.arcmed.2024.103126},
pmid = {39615145},
issn = {1873-5487},
abstract = {The humanitarian crisis in Venezuela has become an unprecedented regional emergency. Over the past decade, Venezuela's political and economic collapse has eroded the country's healthcare infrastructure and threatened the public health of the population. Shortages of medicines and health supplies, disruptions in basic services, and the emigration of health workers during this humanitarian crisis have affected access to care throughout the country, as well as the capacity of emergency services and outbreak response. During the early waves of the epidemic, COVID-19 collapsed the Venezuelan health system, leaving sentinel centers without inpatient beds and ICU space. Home-based care alternatives quickly emerged, not only for mild to moderate but also for severe and critical COVID-19 cases. Here we discuss the impact of the pandemic on the Venezuelan health system, the emergence of home-based care alternatives for severe and critical COVID-19 cases, as well as their costs and challenges, and finally, their advantages and disadvantages.},
}

@article {pmid39615022,
year = {2024},
author = {Ansari, M and Behnami, A and Benis, KZ and Farzadkia, M},
title = {An updated review on SARS-CoV-2 in hospital wastewater: occurrence and persistence.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {196},
number = {12},
pages = {1276},
pmid = {39615022},
issn = {1573-2959},
mesh = {*Wastewater/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Hospitals ; Humans ; *COVID-19/transmission/epidemiology ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; RNA, Viral/analysis ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, primarily affecting the respiratory system, is also found in fecal samples from COVID-19 patients, demonstrating wastewater as a significant route for viral RNA transmission. During high prevalence periods, healthcare facility wastewater became a potential contamination source. Understanding the role of wastewater in epidemiology is crucial for public health risk assessment. In hospitals, with a specific number of COVID-19 cases, wastewater analysis offers a unique opportunity to link virus presence in wastewater with COVID-19 hospitalizations, a connection that is not possible in urban wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Shorter wastewater transit times enable more accurate virus tracking. With documented infection rates and rigorous testing, hospitals are ideal for wastewater monitoring, revealing practicalities and limitations. This review updates global efforts in quantifying SARS-CoV-2 in hospital wastewater, considering hospitalization rates' influence on viral RNA levels and comparing disinfection methods. Insights gleaned from this study contribute to Wastewater-based Epidemiology (WBE) and can be applied to other virus strains, enhancing our understanding of disease transmission dynamics and aiding in public health response strategies.},
}

*Wastewater/virology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Hospitals
Humans
*COVID-19/transmission/epidemiology
Environmental Monitoring/methods
RNA, Viral/analysis

@article {pmid39614945,
year = {2024},
author = {Farkas, K and Williams, RC and Hillary, LS and Garcia-Delgado, A and Jameson, E and Kevill, JL and Wade, MJ and Grimsley, JMS and Jones, DL},
title = {Harnessing the Power of Next-Generation Sequencing in Wastewater-Based Epidemiology and Global Disease Surveillance.},
journal = {Food and environmental virology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {5},
pmid = {39614945},
issn = {1867-0342},
mesh = {*High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Humans ; *Wastewater/virology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring ; Pandemics ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a valuable surveillance tool for SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens globally, providing insights into community-level infections, including asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic cases. While most WBE programmes focus on quantitative pathogen assessment, next-generation sequencing (NGS) approaches have enabled more detailed analyses, including variant and recombinant genotype identification for viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and poliovirus. Despite recent NGS advancements allowing for the detection of known and novel viruses in wastewater, many of these tools remain underutilised in routine WBE. This short review critically evaluates the applicability of common NGS tools in routine WBE programmes, assessing their capability for identifying emerging threats with epidemic or pandemic potential. Here, we provide evidence-based recommendations for integrating NGS techniques into WBE and the use of results for informed decision-making within a One Health framework, aiming to enhance global infectious disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness.},
}

*High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
Humans
*Wastewater/virology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring
Pandemics
Global Health

@article {pmid39614066,
year = {2024},
author = {Amrouche, T and Lammi, S and Drider, D},
title = {Probiotics and Prebiotics Intervention in Respiratory and Digestive Infections Linked to Covid-19.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39614066},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {Probiotics and prebiotics have been suggested as natural agents against viral infections and dysbiosis and may encourage clinical applications. This review aims to analyze the main and recent advances related to viral infections such as Covid-19 and its gastrointestinal complications, antiviral immunity generated and possible preventive role that probiotics and/or prebiotics can play in controlling and promoting antiviral immunity. The literature search was performed through a critical analysis of relevant publications reported in PubMed and Scopus databases on clinical trials and assays conducted in vitro on colon cells and in vivo on mice. Some studies using probiotics and prebiotics for the prevention of viral infection in different age groups are discussed. Covid-19 patients have been shown to suffer from gastrointestinal complications in addition to respiratory symptoms due to interactions between the respiratory system and the gastrointestinal tract infected with SARS-CoV-2. Unfortunately, therapies used to prevent (or treat) symptoms of Covid-19 have proven to be of limited effectiveness. In addition, the lack of access to coronavirus vaccines around the world and vaccine hesitancy continue to hamper control of Covid-19. It is therefore crucial to find alternative methods that can prevent disease symptoms. Evidence-based efficacy of certain probiotics (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) that may be useful in viral infections was shown with immunomodulatory properties (pro-inflammatory mediators reduction), promoting antiviral immunity (antibodies production, virus titers) and controlling inflammation (anti-inflammatory effect), as well as viral clearance and antimicrobial potential against opportunistic bacteria (anti-dysbiosis effect). But, available data about clinical application of probiotics in Covid-19 context remain limited and relevant scientific investigation is still in its early stages. Also, evidence for prebiotics potential in this field is limited, since the exact mechanism involved in systemic immune modulation by these compounds is till now unknown. Thus, further research is necessary to explore in the viral infection context the mechanism by which gut and lung interact in the presence of probiotics and prebiotics through more animal and clinical experiments.},
}

@article {pmid39613884,
year = {2024},
author = {Huf, R and Andrees, N and Kagerbauer, S},
title = {[Everything flows, nothing stands still-Anesthesiology and intensive care medicine in the digital age].},
journal = {Die Anaesthesiologie},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39613884},
issn = {2731-6866},
abstract = {Anaesthesiology and intensive care medicine are innovative specialist areas that mainly use the advantages of digital documentation. However, to exploit the full potential of the digital age, more than conversion of paper-based documentation into digital formats is required. The German healthcare system needs to catch up; more than money is required to drive digitalisation forward. The willingness of all those involved to adapt to new circumstances is essential-a process known as 'digital transformation'.The drivers of digital transformation in medicine are the need for personalised therapies, technological advances, and shared decision-making between physicians and patients. However, humans should take centre stage in medicine; technology is only a means to an end.As data-driven research is becoming increasingly important, the FAIR principles must apply to routine data in the same way as it is propagated for research: Data must be findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable. Utilising high-quality databases, decision support, and warning systems can be developed for early recognition and prevention of complications.Teleintensive care is a concrete expression of digital transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic paved the way for it to become standard care.Digital technologies in education and training are becoming increasingly popular. Virtual and augmented reality applications enable realistic training scenarios for trainee physicians and experienced teams.In the future, expanding the infrastructure and facilitating data exchange between all healthcare areas is essential. Applications must be reliable and secure, as cybercrime poses a severe threat to our hospitals, making vigilant IT departments and education in IT security crucial. In summary, digitalisation can make patient care safer and better if implemented correctly and involving all stakeholders.},
}

@article {pmid39613099,
year = {2024},
author = {Navarro-Romero, F and Olalla-Sierra, J and Martín-Escalante, MD},
title = {Potential role of lung ultrasonography in outpatient follow-up of patients with COVID-19. A systematic review.},
journal = {Revista clinica espanola},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.rceng.2024.11.006},
pmid = {39613099},
issn = {2254-8874},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Currently, the usefulness of lung ultrasound in the follow-up of patients after hospital discharge for SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia is not well known. The main objective of this systematic review is to investigate the persistence of alterations in lung ultrasound of patients who have had COVID-19 pneumonia.

METHODS: A systematic review has been carried out following the PRISMA regulations in the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Google Scholar database from January 2020 to May 2023 using the combination of MeSH terms: "lung ultrasound", "ultrasonography", "lung alterations", "persistence", "follow-up", "consequences", "hospital discharge", "COVID", "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2". Studies were selected that described alterations in the lung ultrasound of patients after having suffered from COVID-19 pneumonia. The JBI Critical Appraisal Tools were used to assess the risk of bias of the studies. No meta-analysis techniques were performed, the results being compared narratively.

RESULTS: From two to six months after COVID-19 pneumonia, pulmonary ultrasound abnormalities appear frequently and are proportional to the intensity of the initial episode. The most frequent anomalies are irregularities in the pleural line, the presence of B lines and/or subpleural consolidations, predominantly in the basal regions of the thorax. These findings seem to correlate with those of the chest CT.

CONCLUSIONS: Lung ultrasound offers technical and economic advantages that should be considered for the study of patients after hospital discharge for COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid39613064,
year = {2025},
author = {Behzadi, P and Chandran, D and Chakraborty, C and Bhattacharya, M and Saikumar, G and Dhama, K and Chakraborty, A and Mukherjee, S and Sarshar, M},
title = {The dual role of toll-like receptors in COVID-19: Balancing protective immunity and immunopathogenesis.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {284},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {137836},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.137836},
pmid = {39613064},
issn = {1879-0003},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Toll-Like Receptors/metabolism/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Signal Transduction ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology ; },
abstract = {Toll-like receptors (TLRs) of human are considered as the most critical immunological mediators of inflammatory pathogenesis of COVID-19. These immunoregulatory glycoproteins are located on the surface and/or intracellular compartment act as innate immune sensors. Upon binding with distinct SARS-CoV-2 ligand(s), TLRs signal activation of different transcription factors that induce expression of the proinflammatory mediators that collectively induce 'cytokine storm'. Similarly, TLR activation is also pivotal in conferring protection to infection and invasion as well as upregulating the tissue repair pathways. This dual role of the human TLRs in deciding the fate of SARS-CoV-2 has made these receptor proteins as the critical mediators of immunoprotective and immunopathogenic consequences associated with COVID-19. Herein, pathbreaking discoveries exploring the immunobiological importance of the TLRs in COVID-19 and developing TLR-directed therapeutic intervention have been reviewed by accessing the up-to-date literatures available in the public domain/databases. In accordance with our knowledge in association with the importance of TLRs' role against viruses and identification of viral particles, they have been recognized as suitable candidates with high potential as vaccine adjuvants. In this regard, the agonists of TLR4 and TLR9 have effective potential in vaccine technology while the others need further investigations. This comprehensive review suggests that basal level expression of TLRs can act as friends to keep our body safe from strangers but act as a foe via overexpression. Therefore, selective inhibition of the overexpressed TLRs appears to be a solution to counteract the cytokine storm while TLR-agonists as vaccine adjuvants could lessen the risk of infection in the naïve population.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Toll-Like Receptors/metabolism/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Signal Transduction
Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology

@article {pmid39612608,
year = {2024},
author = {Melis, P and Perra, A and Nardi, AE and Zreik, T and Preti, A and Carta, MG},
title = {The quality of information on anxiety-related websites: A systematic search about the most online item searched after Covid-19 pandemics.},
journal = {Journal of psychiatric research},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {144-150},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.11.049},
pmid = {39612608},
issn = {1879-1379},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The acquisition of health information via the internet has emerged as a prevalent approach within the general population and is likely to exert an influence on health decision-making processes. This study aims to evaluate the comprehensive quality of online information about anxiety treatment and management comparing websites in English, which is widely used for international scientific communication, and Italian, a popular local language. It was used a multidimensional methodology that assesses scientific quality of information; readability of the website; the technological quality of the website and the website's popularity ranking.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic search on four widely used online search engines. Duplicated, unrelated websites, and scientific papers were excluded. The assessment included the use of several criteria and tools: the DISCERN scale, the JAMA benchmark criteria, adherence to the Health on the Net Code; the Nibbler tool; PageRank; and the Flesch Reading Ease test/the Gulpease readability index.

RESULTS: 78 websites in Italian and 60 in English were evaluated. Quality of information of the English websites was higher than that of the Italian ones, but only a small percentage of them reported high level information about all treatment types and shared decision-making process. Technological quality was higher in English websites. In general, all websites were difficult to read, requiring reading skills at the high school level or higher.

CONCLUSIONS: These results can promote future guidelines to improve online health information. Users should be able to find information about all treatment types (pharmacological and psychosocial) in line with the current guidelines for the treatment and the management of anxiety disorders. This would help internet users to achieve a higher level of quality information.},
}

@article {pmid39357172,
year = {2024},
author = {Chen, C and Wang, Y and Kaur, G and Adiga, A and Espinoza, B and Venkatramanan, S and Warren, A and Lewis, B and Crow, J and Singh, R and Lorentz, A and Toney, D and Marathe, M},
title = {Wastewater-based epidemiology for COVID-19 surveillance and beyond: A survey.},
journal = {Epidemics},
volume = {49},
number = {},
pages = {100793},
doi = {10.1016/j.epidem.2024.100793},
pmid = {39357172},
issn = {1878-0067},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Wastewater/virology ; *Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The pandemic of COVID-19 has imposed tremendous pressure on public health systems and social economic ecosystems over the past years. To alleviate its social impact, it is important to proactively track the prevalence of COVID-19 within communities. The traditional way to estimate the disease prevalence is to estimate from reported clinical test data or surveys. However, the coverage of clinical tests is often limited and the tests can be labor-intensive, requires reliable and timely results, and consistent diagnostic and reporting criteria. Recent studies revealed that patients who are diagnosed with COVID-19 often undergo fecal shedding of SARS-CoV-2 virus into wastewater, which makes wastewater-based epidemiology for COVID-19 surveillance a promising approach to complement traditional clinical testing. In this paper, we survey the existing literature regarding wastewater-based epidemiology for COVID-19 surveillance and summarize the current advances in the area. Specifically, we have covered the key aspects of wastewater sampling, sample testing, and presented a comprehensive and organized summary of wastewater data analytical methods. Finally, we provide the open challenges on current wastewater-based COVID-19 surveillance studies, aiming to encourage new ideas to advance the development of effective wastewater-based surveillance systems for general infectious diseases.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Wastewater/virology
*Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring
*SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39265548,
year = {2024},
author = {Castelon Konkiewitz, E and Ziff, EB},
title = {Brain Evolution in the Times of the Pandemic and Multimedia.},
journal = {European neurology},
volume = {87},
number = {5-6},
pages = {261-272},
doi = {10.1159/000541361},
pmid = {39265548},
issn = {1421-9913},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biological Evolution ; *Brain/physiology ; COVID-19 ; Multimedia ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In this paper, we argue that recent unprecedented social changes arising from social media and the internet represent powerful behavioral and environmental forces that are driving human evolutionary adaptive responses in a way that might reshape our brain and the way it perceives reality and interacts with it. These forces include decreases in physical activity, decreases in exposure to light, and face-to-face social interactions, as well as diminished predictability in biological rhythms (i.e., the sleep cycle is no longer dictated by natural light exposure and season).

SUMMARY: We discuss the roles of stress and of creativity and adaptability in Homo sapiens evolution and propose mechanisms for human adaptation to the new forces including epigenetic mechanisms, gene-culture coevolution, and novel mechanisms of evolution of the nervous system.

KEY MESSAGES: We present the provocative idea that evolution under the strong selective pressures of today's society could ultimately enable H. sapiens to thrive despite social, physical, circadian, and cultural deprivation and possible neurological disease, and thus withstand the loss of factors that contribute to H. sapiens survival of today. The new H. sapiens would flourish under a lifestyle in which the current form would feel undervalued and replaceable.},
}

Humans
*Biological Evolution
*Brain/physiology
COVID-19
Multimedia
Pandemics

@article {pmid38226945,
year = {2024},
author = {Wang, Z and Huang, Y and Wang, S and Chen, J and Meiduo, G and Jin, M and Zhang, X},
title = {A case report of fatal familial insomnia with cerebrospinal fluid leukocytosis during the COVID-19 epidemic and review of the literature.},
journal = {Prion},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {1-10},
doi = {10.1080/19336896.2023.2298520},
pmid = {38226945},
issn = {1933-690X},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *COVID-19/complications/cerebrospinal fluid ; *Insomnia, Fatal Familial/genetics/complications ; *Leukocytosis/cerebrospinal fluid/complications ; Adult ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; tau Proteins/cerebrospinal fluid ; Fatal Outcome ; },
abstract = {Fatal familial insomnia (FFI) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic neurodegenerative disease. Generally, FFI patients will develop rapidly progressive dementia, sleep disturbance, autonomic dysfunction, and so on. Cerebrospinal fluid examination of FFI patients normally shows no obvious abnormalities. Here, we report a young male patient who was diagnosed with FFI during the COVID-19 epidemic. Clinical symptoms include psychobehavioral abnormality, cognitive decline, sleep disturbance, and autonomic dysfunction. No abnormalities were found in routine examinations after admission. However, the number of white blood cells in the cerebrospinal fluid increased. Though the patient was treated with anti-infection and immunotherapy, the symptoms were not relieved. A lumbar puncture was performed again, and it was found that the total Tau protein in the cerebrospinal fluid was elevated, and PET results showed that brain metabolism decreased. Finally, a genetic test was used to confirm the diagnosis of FFI. This case suggests that patients with FFI may also have elevated white blood cells in cerebrospinal fluid and timely detection of Tau protein in cerebrospinal fluid is helpful for early identification of FFI. And precise diagnosis relies on genetic testing.},
}

Humans
Male
*COVID-19/complications/cerebrospinal fluid
*Insomnia, Fatal Familial/genetics/complications
*Leukocytosis/cerebrospinal fluid/complications
Adult
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
tau Proteins/cerebrospinal fluid
Fatal Outcome

@article {pmid39612556,
year = {2025},
author = {Link, EK and Tscherne, A and Sutter, G and Smith, ER and Gurwith, M and Chen, RT and Volz, A and , },
title = {A Brighton collaboration standardized template with key considerations for a benefit/risk assessment for a viral vector vaccine based on a non-replicating modified vaccinia virus Ankara viral vector.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {43},
number = {Pt 1},
pages = {126521},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126521},
pmid = {39612556},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {*Vaccinia virus/genetics/immunology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology/genetics ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *Genetic Vectors/immunology/genetics ; Risk Assessment ; Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control/immunology ; },
abstract = {The Brighton Collaboration Benefit-Risk Assessment of VAccines by TechnolOgy (BRAVATO) was formed to evaluate the safety and other key features of new platform technology vaccines. This manuscript provides an overview of Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA)-vectored vaccines and reviews molecular and biological key features of this platform. In particular, this review aims to provide fundamental information about the promising candidate vaccine MVA-MERS-S which has been evaluated successfully in different preclinical animal models and has undergone clinical testing including a phase Ib study involving more than 170 participants. Infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of human death worldwide. In this context, emerging zoonotic infectious diseases pose a particular challenge for public health systems. In the last two decades, three different respiratory coronaviruses, including the Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have emerged. For many years, safe and efficacious vaccines have been a major tool to combat infectious diseases. Here, we report on a promising candidate vaccine (MVA-MERS-S) against MERS-CoV based on MVA. Upon application, MVA-MERS-S has been well tolerated and immunogenic, inducing both, cellular and humoral immune responses in different animal models and humans. We demonstrate that the MVA vector platform, with the example of MVA-MERS-S, is a viable and effective tool for producing safe, immunogenic, and efficient vaccines against emerging infectious diseases.},
}

*Vaccinia virus/genetics/immunology
Humans
Animals
*Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology/genetics
*Viral Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*Genetic Vectors/immunology/genetics
Risk Assessment
Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control/immunology

@article {pmid39612460,
year = {2024},
author = {Oshiro, N and Kinjo, T and Aharen, D and Kudo, Y and Katsuren, E and Omine, K and Nakamura, T and Zamami, R and Ishida, A and Miyagi, K and Nakamatsu, M and Yamamoto, K and Kusunose, K and Fujita, J and Ohya, Y and Kohagura, K},
title = {Efficacy and safety of early administration of remdesivir in hemodialysis patients with COVID-19: A case report and literature review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {103},
number = {48},
pages = {e40650},
pmid = {39612460},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *Renal Dialysis ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Female ; COVID-19/complications/therapy ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Although the mortality of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has decreased after the emergence of the Omicron variant, it remains high in patients on hemodialysis (HD). Remdesivir (RDV) is considered as the first line drug for hospitalized COVID-19 patients, however the evidence regarding the usage in HD patients is lacking because clinical trials of RDV have excluded HD patients for safety reasons. Thus, accumulation of knowledge on the regimen, efficacy, and tolerability of RDV in HD patients is important.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A nosocomial COVID-19 cluster was occurred from August 31 to October 12 in 2021 when the Delta variant was predominant. During the cluster, 11 health-care workers and 20 inpatients including 7 HD patients were infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

DIAGNOSES: The diagnosis of COVID-19 was confirmed by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for SARS-CoV-2.

INTERVENTIONS: RDV was initiated within 16 hours after the onset of fever (≥ 37.4°C) or positive PCR result in all HD patients, and continued at 100 mg/day intravenously once daily for either consecutive 5 or 10 days.

OUTCOMES: All patients fully recovered within 2 weeks and did not develop severe COVID-19. Two patients experienced mild liver dysfunction, but it was temporary and remitted spontaneously even continuing RDV treatment. Discontinuation of RDV therapy due to adverse events was not required in any patients.

LESSONS: Present cases indicated early intervention with RDV may contribute the favorable outcome and daily administration of RDV for up to 10 days was well tolerated even in HD patients. Literature review showed no previous article reported the efficacy and safety of such earlier and longer administration of remdesivir as in the present cases, therefore this report is informative for clinicians to consider the usage of RDV in HD patients.},
}

Humans
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*Renal Dialysis
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*SARS-CoV-2
Male
Female
COVID-19/complications/therapy
Middle Aged
Aged
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid39611250,
year = {2024},
author = {Núñez-Cortés, R and López-Bueno, R and Torres-Castro, R and Calatayud, J and Del Pozo Cruz, B},
title = {Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors according to Life's Essential 8 in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis including 1 526 173 participants from 42 countries.},
journal = {Pediatric obesity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e13190},
doi = {10.1111/ijpo.13190},
pmid = {39611250},
issn = {2047-6310},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular health is a crucial aspect of overall health. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic based on the Life's Essential 8 domains.

METHODS: PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were systematically searched until 24 February 2023. Studies had to meet the following criteria: (1) observational studies, (2) studies reporting proportion of selected risk factors, (3) studies involving children or adolescents, (4) studies that collected data during the COVID-19 pandemic and (5) studies with representative samples. The outcomes included were diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, sleep health, obesity, dyslipidaemia, diabetes and elevated blood pressure.

RESULTS: Sixty-two studies with 1 526 173 participants from 42 countries were included. Of these, 41 studies were used in the meta-analyses. The overall pooled prevalence of risk factors in the behavioural domain was as follows: poor quality diet 26.69% (95% CI 0.00%-85.64%), inadequate physical activity 70.81% (95% CI 64.41%-76.83%), nicotine exposure 9.24% (95% CI 5.53%-13.77%) and sleep disorders 33.49% (95% CI 25.24%-42.28%). The overall pooled prevalence of risk factors in the health domain was as follows: obesity 16.21% (95% CI 12.71%-20.04%), dyslipidaemia 1.87% (95% CI 1.73%-2.01%), diabetes 1.17% (95% CI 0.83%-1.58%) and elevated blood pressure 11.87% (95% CI 0.26%-36.50%).

CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the need for prevention strategies to maintain better cardiovascular health from an early age, particularly by increasing physical activity levels, sleep time and promoting the consumption of more fruits and vegetables.},
}

@article {pmid39611151,
year = {2024},
author = {Chen, S and Cai, M and Tan, G and Guo, R and Liang, Q and Li, H and Liu, X},
title = {Case report: Intravascular large B cell lymphoma mimicking acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis after SARS-CoV-2 reinfection: diagnostic value of advanced MRI techniques and the literature review with the assistance of ChatGPT.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1478163},
pmid = {39611151},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnostic imaging ; Middle Aged ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Diagnosis, Differential ; *Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/diagnostic imaging/diagnosis/drug therapy ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Reinfection ; },
abstract = {The intravascular large B cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare subtype of lymphoma. The IVBCL is usually found with systemic involvement, with a relative predilection for skin and the central nervous system (CNS), followed by a rapidly progressive course and poor prognosis with a high mortality rate. IVLBCL is difficult to diagnose based on conventional MRI alone. Herein, we presented a previously healthy 59-year-old woman who developed hemiparesis and altered mental status after her reinfection of SARS-CoV-2. The initial MRI revealed non-enhancing lesions in the splenium of the corpus callosum (CC), periventricular, and bilateral subcortical white matter with hyperintensity on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). The patient was diagnosed with subacute infarction, and she was treated with antithrombotic therapy. Her neurological symptoms continued to deteriorate, and she developed unconsciousness. Her CSF test showed elevated white cell count and positive oligoclonal bands. The follow-up MRI was scanned 16 days later. Compared to the initial MRI, the periventricular and bilateral subcortical lesions enlarged on conventional MRI. The post-contrast 3D black blood Cube images demonstrated multiple parenchymal and diffuse meningeal enhancements and 3D arterial spin labeling showed increased perfusion in the CC splenium. These findings suggested the differential diagnosis of acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis (ADEM) after SARS-CoV-2 reinfection, versus intravascular lymphoma. After the treatment of intravenous immunoglobulin and methylprednisolone, her symptoms significantly improved. The second follow-up MRI two weeks later detected a new unenhanced lesion in the left temporal lobe. A brain biopsy was performed and IVLBCL was diagnosed. We reviewed the brain MRI findings of IVLBCL in the literature with the assistance of ChatGPT. Although less specific, the imaging features including "high signal lesions on DWI, meningeal thickening and enhancement, and masslike lesions" highly suggested the possibility of IVLBCL. The biopsy should be planned after imaging progression. The association between IVLBCL and SARS-CoV-2 reinfection is undefined.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19/complications/diagnostic imaging
Middle Aged
*SARS-CoV-2
Diagnosis, Differential
*Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/diagnostic imaging/diagnosis/drug therapy
*Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Reinfection

@article {pmid39610334,
year = {2024},
author = {Shoham, S and Focosi, D and Franchini, M and Atamna, A},
title = {Novel approaches for preventing COVID-19 infection in immunocompromised patients with hematologic malignancies.},
journal = {Expert review of hematology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-8},
doi = {10.1080/17474086.2024.2436973},
pmid = {39610334},
issn = {1747-4094},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 is a continuing challenge for immunocompromised patients with hematological malignancies. Such patients are at increased risk for complications, including hospitalization, respiratory failure, delayed anti-cancer therapies, and even death. In addition to non-pharmacologic interventions, the main strategies for prevention in such patients are vaccination and pre-exposure prophylaxis.

AREAS COVERED: In this narrative review, which relied on a review of the PubMed and bioRxiv databases (starting 1 November 2019), we summarize the epidemiology of COVID-19 and vaccine responses in patients with hematological malignancies and the use of antiviral agents as prophylaxis. A limitation to vaccination is suboptimal immune responses in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with abnormalities in lymphocyte count and function. A limitation to prophylaxis, which has only been proven effective for antiviral monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), is the emergence of resistant strains in the general population.

EXPERT OPINION: For immunocompromised patients with hematological malignancies, we recommend vaccinations as guided by evolving US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations, consideration of pre-exposure prophylaxis with antiviral mAbs, providing that they are effective against circulating viral strains, and rapid diagnostic testing linked to early therapy for the prevention of severe complications of COVID-19 in those who have broken through the prevention strategies.},
}

@article {pmid39609773,
year = {2024},
author = {Taubert, F and Meyer-Hoeven, G and Schmid, P and Gerdes, P and Betsch, C},
title = {Conspiracy narratives and vaccine hesitancy: a scoping review of prevalence, impact, and interventions.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {3325},
pmid = {39609773},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology ; Narration ; Prevalence ; Intention ; Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; },
abstract = {Believing conspiracy narratives is frequently assumed to be a major cause of vaccine hesitancy, i.e., the tendency to forgo vaccination despite its availability. In this scoping review, we synthesise and critically evaluate studies that assess i) the occurrence of vaccine-related conspiracy narratives on the internet, ii) the prevalence of belief in vaccine-related conspiracy narratives, iii) the relationship between belief in conspiracy narratives and vaccination intention or vaccination uptake, and iv) interventions that reduce the impact of conspiracy narratives on vaccination intention.In July 2022, we conducted a literature search using three databases: PubMed, PsychInfo, and Web of Science. Following the PRISMA approach, of the 500 initially identified articles, 205 were eligible and analysed.The majority of identified studies were conducted in Europe and North America, were published in 2021 and 2022, and investigated conspiracy narratives around the COVID-19 vaccination. The prevalence of belief in various vaccine-related conspiracy narratives varied greatly across studies, from 2 to 77%. We identified seven experimental studies investigating the effect of exposure to conspiracy narratives on vaccination intentions, of which six indicated a small negative effect. These findings are complemented by the evidence from over 100 correlative studies showing a significant negative relationship between conspiracy beliefs and vaccination intention or uptake. Additionally, the review identified interventions (e.g., social norm feedback, fact-checking labels, or prebunking) that decreased beliefs in vaccine-related conspiracy narratives and, in some cases, also increased vaccination intentions. Yet, these interventions had only small effects.In summary, the review revealed that vaccine-related conspiracy narratives have spread to varying degrees and can influence vaccination decisions. Causal relationships between conspiracy beliefs and vaccination intentions remain underexplored. Further, the review identified a need for more research on interventions that can reduce the impact of conspiracy narratives.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology
Narration
Prevalence
Intention
Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice

@article {pmid39609422,
year = {2024},
author = {Grijsen, ML and Nguyen, TH and Pinheiro, RO and Singh, P and Lambert, SM and Walker, SL and Geluk, A},
title = {Leprosy.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Disease primers},
volume = {10},
number = {1},
pages = {90},
pmid = {39609422},
issn = {2056-676X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Leprosy/diagnosis/epidemiology/drug therapy ; *Mycobacterium leprae/pathogenicity/isolation & purification ; Leprostatic Agents/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {Leprosy, a neglected tropical disease, causes significant morbidity in marginalized communities. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, annual new case detection plateaued for over a decade at ~200,000 new cases. The clinical phenotypes of leprosy strongly parallel host immunity to its causative agents Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. The resulting spectrum spans from paucibacillary leprosy, characterized by vigorous pro-inflammatory immunity with few bacteria, to multibacillary leprosy, harbouring large numbers of bacteria with high levels of seemingly non-protective, anti-M. leprae antibodies. Leprosy diagnosis remains clinical, leaving asymptomatic individuals with infection undetected. Antimicrobial treatment is effective with recommended multidrug therapy for 6 months for paucibacillary leprosy and 12 months for multibacillary leprosy. The incubation period ranges from 2 to 6 years, although longer periods have been described. Given this lengthy incubation period and dwindling clinical expertise, there is an urgent need to create innovative, low-complexity diagnostic tools for detection of M. leprae infection. Such advancements are vital for enabling swift therapeutic and preventive interventions, ultimately transforming patient outcomes. National health-care programmes should prioritize early case detection and consider post-exposure prophylaxis for individuals in close contact with affected persons. These measures will help interrupt transmission, prevent disease progression, and mitigate the risk of nerve damage and disabilities to achieve the WHO goal 'Towards Zero Leprosy' and reduce the burden of leprosy.},
}

Humans
*Leprosy/diagnosis/epidemiology/drug therapy
*Mycobacterium leprae/pathogenicity/isolation & purification
Leprostatic Agents/therapeutic use
COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis

@article {pmid39608950,
year = {2025},
author = {Gujarathi, R and Klein, JA and Liao, CY and Pillai, A},
title = {The Changing Demographics and Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.},
journal = {Clinics in liver disease},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.1016/j.cld.2024.08.001},
pmid = {39608950},
issn = {1557-8224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/epidemiology/etiology ; *Liver Neoplasms/epidemiology/etiology ; Risk Factors ; COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Obesity/epidemiology/complications ; },
abstract = {The epidemiology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has shifted significantly in the last 2 decades with non-viral etiologies such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and alcohol-associated liver disease on the rise. Key factors include the global obesity epidemic and the resurgence of alcohol use disorder, both of which were exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. While these non-viral etiologies of HCC are becoming the leading cause in developed countries, the potential impact of immigration patterns on Hepatitis B virus epidemiology cannot be ignored. The risk of HCC remains significant in individuals with cirrhosis and viral hepatitis after curative treatments.},
}

Humans
*Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/epidemiology/etiology
*Liver Neoplasms/epidemiology/etiology
Risk Factors
COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Obesity/epidemiology/complications

@article {pmid39608918,
year = {2025},
author = {Averill, SL and Metz, CM and Magudia, K and Mohamed, I and Snyder, EJ and Zamboni, CG and Tomblinson, C},
title = {Alleviating radiologists' childcare woes: A roadmap for the 21st century.},
journal = {Current problems in diagnostic radiology},
volume = {54},
number = {1},
pages = {102-107},
doi = {10.1067/j.cpradiol.2024.10.022},
pmid = {39608918},
issn = {1535-6302},
mesh = {Humans ; *Radiologists ; *COVID-19 ; *Child Care ; Child ; Female ; United States ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {This manuscript illuminates the need for childcare support for trainees and faculty in the field of radiology, highlighting the essential need for access, affordability, and high-quality childcare services. For over four decades, women radiologists have voiced the challenges of meeting both childcare and professional responsibilities. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted systemic inadequacies in the childcare infrastructure, exacerbating the challenges of this long-standing balancing act. The 2022 National Plan for Health Workforce Well-Being and the American Medical Association's (AMA) recent resolutions underscore the necessity of affordable, high-quality childcare in recruiting and retaining a diverse healthcare workforce. Despite the recent federal threshold categorizing childcare costs as affordable when they comprise 7% of household income, many families allocate >30% of household income to childcare. Disparities in childcare disproportionately impact women, leading to increased burnout and attrition rates in healthcare. This review explores exemplary childcare initiatives across various economic sectors that demonstrate positive returns on investment and employee retention. The manuscript provides actionable recommendations for radiology departments that can enhance workforce well-being. By addressing childcare needs, the field of radiology can improve the lives of parenting professionals and the patients they serve.},
}

Humans
*Radiologists
*COVID-19
*Child Care
Child
Female
United States
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39608721,
year = {2024},
author = {Jin, L and Zhou, Y and Zhang, S and Chen, SJ},
title = {mRNA Vaccine Sequence and Structure Design and Optimization: Advances and Challenges.},
journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108015},
doi = {10.1016/j.jbc.2024.108015},
pmid = {39608721},
issn = {1083-351X},
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have emerged as a powerful tool against communicable diseases and cancers, as demonstrated by their huge success during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite the outstanding achievements, mRNA vaccines still face challenges such as stringent storage requirements, insufficient antigen expression, and unexpected immune responses. Since the intrinsic properties of mRNA molecules significantly impact the vaccine performance, optimizing mRNA design is crucial in preclinical development. In this review, we outline four key principles for optimal mRNA sequence design: enhancing ribosome loading and translation efficiency through untranslated region (UTR) optimization, improving translation efficiency via codon optimization, increasing structural stability by refining global RNA sequence, and extending in-cell lifetime and expression fidelity by adjusting local RNA structures. We also explore recent advancements in computational models for designing and optimizing mRNA vaccine sequences following these principles. By integrating current mRNA knowledge, addressing challenges, and examining advanced computational methods, this review aims to promote the application of computational approaches in mRNA vaccine development and inspire novel solutions to existing obstacles.},
}

@article {pmid39608568,
year = {2024},
author = {Gong, YN and Kuo, NY and Yeh, TS and Shih, SR and Chen, GW},
title = {Genomic Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in Taiwan: A Perspective on Evolutionary Data Interpretation and Sequencing Issues.},
journal = {Biomedical journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100820},
doi = {10.1016/j.bj.2024.100820},
pmid = {39608568},
issn = {2320-2890},
abstract = {This review presents a comprehensive perspective on the genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in Taiwan, with a focus on next-generation sequencing and phylogenetic interpretation. This article aimed to explore how Taiwan has utilized genomic sequencing technologies and surveillance to monitor and mitigate the spread of COVID-19. We examined databases and sources of genomic sequences and highlighted the role of data science methodologies in the explanation and analyses of evolutionary data. This review addressed the challenges and limitations inherent in genomic surveillance, such as concerns regarding data quality and the necessity for interdisciplinary expertise for accurate data interpretation. Special attention was given to the unique challenges faced by Taiwan, including its high population density and major transit destination for international travelers. We underscored the far-reaching implications of genomic surveillance data for public health policy, particularly in influencing decisions regarding travel restrictions, vaccine administration, and public health decision-making. Studies were examined to demonstrate the effectiveness of using genomic data to implement public health measures. Future research should prioritize the integration of methodologies and technologies in evolutionary data science, particularly focusing on phylodynamic analytics. This integration is crucial to enhance the precision and applicability of genomic data. Overall, we have provided an overview of the significance of genomic surveillance in tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants globally and the pivotal role of data science methodologies in interpreting these data for effective public health interventions.},
}

@article {pmid39608248,
year = {2024},
author = {Blukacz, A and Obach, A and Vásquez, P and Campaña, C and Huerta, C and Bernal, Y and Cabieses, B},
title = {Determinants of COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 vaccine confidence in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review of qualitative evidence and thematic synthesis.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {44},
number = {},
pages = {126546},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126546},
pmid = {39608248},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the immediate risk for global and public health posed by vaccination inequities worldwide. The regions most affected are low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In addition to systemic challenges, vaccine hesitancy driven by low vaccine confidence has been identified as a threat to vaccine uptake. The aim of this systematic review of qualitative literature is to explore the determinants of COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 vaccine confidence in LMICs.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA and ENTREQ guidelines. The electronic databases Cinahl, Embase, Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for qualitative studies focusing on the topic of interest in LMICs published between 2013 and 2023. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's Checklist for Qualitative Research. A thematic synthesis was conducted. The study was registered on the Open Science Framework platform.

FINDINGS: 66 studies were included in the review. Three main determinants of vaccine confidence were identified: (1) General perceptions of the safety and efficacy of vaccines; (2) Information and experience; (3) Trust in healthcare providers, institutions, and systems. General perceptions of vaccine safety and efficacy were similar between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 vaccines, and doubts regarding vaccine safety were neither new nor exclusive to the COVID-19 vaccine, indicating a persisting challenge. Furthermore, low vaccine confidence was partly determined by broader dynamics of mistrust towards Western countries and institutions, which was reflected for both vaccine groups. While conspiracy theories have been persisting determinants of low confidence, low COVID-19 vaccine confidence was partly determined by what was perceived as a lack of specific information.

CONCLUSION: Persistent challenges to vaccine confidence were identified, rooted in colonial legacies and global health inequities, as well as limited intercultural approaches to building trust with regards to vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid39607995,
year = {2024},
author = {Spahl, W and Motta, V and Woodcock, K and Rubeis, G},
title = {Gamified Digital Mental Health Interventions for Young People: Scoping Review of Ethical Aspects During Development and Implementation.},
journal = {JMIR serious games},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e64488},
pmid = {39607995},
issn = {2291-9279},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Young people are particularly at risk of developing mental health problems, a challenge exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital tools such as apps and chatbots show promise in providing accessible, cost-effective, and less stigmatized ways of strengthening their mental health. However, while these interventions offer benefits, they extend mental health measures beyond traditional therapeutic settings and relationships, which raises ethical concerns due to the absence of established guidelines and regulations. This is particularly notable for technologies incorporating serious gaming elements. In addition, adolescents are in a sensitive and at times vulnerable phase, which shows great potential for the effective use of preventive and sensitizing mental health measures. Considering the lack of an integration into existing mental health structures among many young users, ethical considerations become crucial.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aims to build a knowledge base on the ethical aspects of developing and implementing gamified digital mental health interventions for young people.

METHODS: We conducted a search on research articles and conference papers from 2015 to 2023 in English, German, and Spanish. We identified 1815 studies using a unique combination of keywords in the databases Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. After removing duplicates (741/1816, 40.8%), we included a total of 38 publications in this review following a double screening process.

RESULTS: This review found that ethically relevant aspects were discussed with regard to (1) research ethics, (2) ethical principles (including privacy, accessibility, empowerment and autonomy, cultural and social sensitivity, and co-design), (3) vulnerable groups, and (4) social implications (including implementation using facilitators in specific social contexts, relationship with other therapeutic options, economic aspects, and social embeddedness of technologies).

CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review identified a prevailing limited interpretation of "ethics" as research ethics across the included publications. It also shows a lack of discussion on the social embeddedness of technologies and that co-design is frequently viewed in instrumental terms and vulnerability is mostly addressed pragmatically. Through providing concrete examples of how mental health researchers and game designers thus far have addressed and mitigated ethical challenges in specific interventions, this review illustrates how ethical issues do or do not prompt diverse reflections, mitigation strategies, and actions. It advocates for ethics to be integrated as an ongoing practice throughout all stages of developing and implementing serious game elements in mental health interventions for young people.},
}

@article {pmid39607624,
year = {2024},
author = {Maremane, SR and Belle, GN and Oberholster, PJ and Omotola, EO},
title = {Occurrence of selected Covid-19 drugs in surface water resources: a review of their sources, pathways, receptors, fate, ecotoxicity, and possible interactions with heavy metals in aquatic ecosystems.},
journal = {Environmental geochemistry and health},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {3},
pmid = {39607624},
issn = {1573-2983},
support = {PSTD2204072656//National Research Foundation, South Africa/ ; PSTD2204072656//National Research Foundation, South Africa/ ; PSTD2204072656//National Research Foundation, South Africa/ ; PSTD2204072656//National Research Foundation, South Africa/ ; },
mesh = {*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Humans ; *Wastewater/chemistry ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Environmental Monitoring ; Ecosystem ; Water Resources ; Antiviral Agents ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) led to the high consumption of antibiotics such as azithromycin as well as corticosteroids such as prednisone, prednisolone, and dexamethasone used to treat the disease. Seemingly, the concentrations of these four Covid-19 drugs increased in wastewater effluents and surface water resources. This is due to the failure of traditional wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs) to eliminate pharmaceuticals from wastewater. Therefore, the objective of the current research was to review the present state of literature on the occurrence of four Covid-19 drugs in water resources, the associated risks and toxicity, their fate, as well as the emergence of combined pollutants of Covid-19 drugs and heavy metals. From late 2019 to date, azithromycin was observed at concentrations of 935 ng/L, prednisone at 433 ng/L, prednisolone at 0.66 ng/L, and dexamethasone at 360 ng/L, respectively, in surface water resources. These concentrations had increased substantially in water resources and were all attributed to pollution by wastewater effluents and the rise in Covid-?19 infections. This phenomenon was also exacerbated by the observation of the pseudo-persistence of Covid-19 drugs, long half-life periods, as well as the excretion of Covid-19 drugs from the human body with about 30?90% of the parent drug. Nonetheless, the aquatic and human health toxicity and risks of Covid-19 drugs in water resources are unknown as the concentrations are deemed too low; thus, neglecting the possible long-term effects. Also, the accumulation of Covid-19 drugs in water resources presents the possible development of combined pollutants of Covid-19 drugs and heavy metals that are yet to be investigated. The risks and toxicity of the combined pollutants, including the fate of the Covid-19 drugs in water resources remains a research gap that undoubtably needs to be investigated.},
}

*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
*Metals, Heavy/analysis
Humans
*Wastewater/chemistry
COVID-19/epidemiology
Environmental Monitoring
Ecosystem
Water Resources
Antiviral Agents
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39607199,
year = {2024},
author = {Amidianski, P and Santos, EKAD and Erdmann, AL and Delziovo, CR and Alves, MSF and Backes, MTS},
title = {Telenursing contributions in Primary Health Care in the COVID-19 pandemic context: an integrative review.},
journal = {Revista brasileira de enfermagem},
volume = {77},
number = {5},
pages = {e20240093},
doi = {10.1590/0034-7167-2024-0093},
pmid = {39607199},
issn = {1984-0446},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Primary Health Care ; *Pandemics ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Telenursing/methods ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: to identify telenursing contributions in Primary Health Care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: an integrative literature review, conducted between January and August 2022 in the PubMed, CINAHL, LILACS, BDENF, Scopus, WoS, EMBASE and SciELO databases. A total of 493 studies was found, 62 were read in full, and of these, 16 were selected. For analysis, a dynamic reading of the studies and synthesis of the main results were carried out.

RESULTS: the main results highlighted telenursing practice as a challenge for professionals and the population. Among the contributions and positive points and aspects that require improvement, practice showed promise when considered in a post-pandemic scenario.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: through telenursing, the population's access to Primary Health Care was guaranteed in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a critical look at current technological advances in healthcare is necessary.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Primary Health Care
*Pandemics
*SARS-CoV-2
*Telenursing/methods

@article {pmid39606511,
year = {2024},
author = {Nelakuditi, B and Dandamudi, BJ and Dimaano, KAM and Shah, N and AlQassab, O and Al-Sulaitti, Z and Khan, S},
title = {Efficacy of Melatonin as a Promising Intervention for Migraine Prevention: A Systematic Review of Randomized Control Trials.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {16},
number = {10},
pages = {e72559},
pmid = {39606511},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The availability and use of melatonin as an over-the-counter supplement have surged significantly in recent years due to the increased prevalence of sleep-wake disorders, notably in the post-COVID-19 era. While melatonin is known for managing insomnia, its applications extend beyond that. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, along with increased usage, have garnered significant interest from researchers, particularly regarding its use in migraine prophylaxis and treatment. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the role of melatonin as prophylactic therapy for migraine, focusing on the efficacy and side effect profile of melatonin compared to standard therapy and placebo. Six databases were searched through June 2024, identifying 735 relevant articles. Only full-text randomized control trials involving humans, written or translated into English, were included in the study. Data were extracted, screened, sought for retrieval, and assessed for quality appraisal using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). A total of seven randomized control trials involving 1,283 participants who met the eligibility criteria and passed the quality appraisal have been included in the study. All seven trials included patients diagnosed with migraine who were treated with either melatonin or agomelatine and were compared to those treated with conventional prophylactic therapy or placebo. The findings of this review suggest that melatonin significantly reduces the frequency and severity of migraines, but its dose-dependent action and benefits remain debatable. Melatonin may also have a role in weight control, warranting additional research in this direction.},
}

@article {pmid39605779,
year = {2024},
author = {Al Noman, Z and Tasnim, S and Masud, RI and Anika, TT and Islam, MS and Rahman, AMMT and Rahman, MT},
title = {A systematic review on reverse-zoonosis: Global impact and changes in transmission patterns.},
journal = {Journal of advanced veterinary and animal research},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {601-617},
pmid = {39605779},
issn = {2311-7710},
abstract = {Reverse zoonosis or zooanthroponosis is the transfer of pathogens from humans to animals. Although less studied than zoonotic diseases, this phenomenon poses significant risks to both animal and public health. The increasing human-animal interactions driven by urbanization, globalization, and environmental changes have exacerbated the occurrence of reverse zoonosis. This review evaluated the global impact and transmission patterns of reverse zoonosis, highlighting the anthropogenic and intrinsic factors contributing to its emergence. The study performed a systematic review and included 91 scientific articles published from 2000 to 2022, covering viral, bacterial, parasitic, fungal, and protozoal reverse zoonoses. This study indicated that viral infections, particularly respiratory viruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 and influenza, have the highest incidence of reverse zoonosis, followed by bacterial infections like tuberculosis and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The United States, India, and Hong Kong are among the most reported regions for reverse zoonotic events. Major risk factors identified include environmental degradation, climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and global wildlife trade. The review underscores the need for enhanced surveillance systems, interdisciplinary collaboration, and stringent regulations on wildlife trade and animal husbandry practices to mitigate the risks associated with reverse zoonosis. Understanding the dynamics of human-animal pathogen transmission is crucial for developing not only effective but also sustainable strategies to protect animal populations as well as public health from emerging infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid39603854,
year = {2024},
author = {Simic, MR and Porter, JE and Peck, B and Mesagno, C},
title = {'It's only a matter of time' - Lessons learnt and recommendations from COVID-19 to inform emergency nursing for future pandemics: An integrated literature review.},
journal = {Australasian emergency care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.auec.2024.10.004},
pmid = {39603854},
issn = {2588-994X},
abstract = {PURPOSE: In the recovery phase of COVID-19 disaster management, Emergency Department (ED) nurses are attempting to return to normal workforce operations, despite significant impacts on personal and professional lives. This review aims to examine and synthesise current literature for the learnings and recommendations from the lived experiences of ED nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PROCEDURES: Electronic databases CINAHL Complete, Web of Science, Scopus (Elsevier) and PubMed were utilised using a 5-year timeframe that aligned with COVID-19 in Australia. Final date of accepted papers was 28th February 2024. A JBI Mixed Methods Convergent Integrated Approach was used.

FINDINGS: A total of 15 studies were included in the final review, representing seven countries of origin and included 649 ED nurses. Seven major themes related to learnings and recommendations were generated from data synthesis including (1) professional identity, (2) wellbeing support, (3) camaraderie, (4) effective communication, (5) working conditions and professional boundaries, (6) education and training, and (7) external support.

CONCLUSION: With the likelihood of future epidemic and pandemic events globally, it is vital to explore and collate evidence on the learnings and recommendations from ED during the COVID-19 pandemic to continue to build a sustainable, resilient, and supported workforce.},
}

@article {pmid39603721,
year = {2025},
author = {Umoren, RA and Birnie, K},
title = {Pediatric Telemedicine Consults to Improve Access to Intensive Care in Rural Environments.},
journal = {Pediatric clinics of North America},
volume = {72},
number = {1},
pages = {123-132},
doi = {10.1016/j.pcl.2024.07.028},
pmid = {39603721},
issn = {1557-8240},
mesh = {Humans ; Child ; *Telemedicine ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Critical Care/methods ; *Rural Health Services/organization & administration ; Pediatrics/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Referral and Consultation ; Rural Population ; Intensive Care Units, Pediatric/organization & administration ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Recent advances in telehealth adoption prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the potential for improved intensive care outcomes through implementing pediatric telehealth in rural and remote settings. Telemedicine consults can be used in a variety of intensive care scenarios including procedural support, resuscitation, specialty consults, and transport. Telemedicine consults for pediatric care in rural environments improve access, cost-effectiveness, and family-centeredness. Challenges to adopting telemedicine consults for intensive care unit level care include issues around training, technology, resource allocation, and attention to how implementation exacerbate or improve health disparities.},
}

Humans
Child
*Telemedicine
*Health Services Accessibility
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Critical Care/methods
*Rural Health Services/organization & administration
Pediatrics/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Referral and Consultation
Rural Population
Intensive Care Units, Pediatric/organization & administration
Pandemics

@article {pmid39603665,
year = {2024},
author = {Gardiner, L and Young, HML and Drover, H and Morgan-Selvaratnam, E and Natt, M and Smith, N and Daynes, E and Orme, MW and Taylor, RS and Singh, SJ and Evans, RA},
title = {Reporting of pre-existing multiple long-term conditions in physical rehabilitation for long COVID: a scoping review.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {33},
number = {174},
pages = {},
pmid = {39603665},
issn = {1600-0617},
support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation/epidemiology ; Physical Therapy Modalities ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Time Factors ; Chronic Disease ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Physical rehabilitation may improve health and wellbeing outcomes for some adults living with long COVID. However, individuals living with pre-existing multiple long-term conditions (MLTCs) and long COVID may have additional rehabilitation challenges. This scoping review aims to identify the available evidence describing physical rehabilitation interventions for adults living with long COVID, to systematically map the reporting of pre-existing MLTCs, and to describe the characteristics of physical rehabilitation interventions used in adults with both pre-existing long-term conditions (LTCs) and long COVID.

METHODS: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, APA PsycInfo, medRxiv, OpenGrey and MedNar were searched from January 2020 to July 2023. Eligibility criteria included adults with long COVID, rehabilitation interventions including a physical component in any setting and any study design investigating interventions or intervention content except case series/reports.

RESULTS: Of 5326 unique records, 50 articles met the inclusion criteria, of which 25 (50%) made reference to pre-existing LTCs. These articles included four protocols and one consensus statement. Four of the remaining 20 studies (20%) reported the number of pre-existing LTCs, enabling the differentiation of individuals with MLTCs. One study reported outcomes of individuals with MLTCs separately to those without. The interventions described (k=24) typically consisted of combined aerobic and strength exercises (k=17 (71%)) in an outpatient setting (k=13 (54%)).

CONCLUSIONS: There is limited and inconsistent reporting of the presence of MLTCs in studies of physical rehabilitation for adults with long COVID. Clarity and consistency of reporting of MLTCs is required to enable evaluation and adaptation of interventions to improve health and wellbeing for this population.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/rehabilitation/epidemiology
Physical Therapy Modalities
SARS-CoV-2
Time Factors
Chronic Disease
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid39522757,
year = {2024},
author = {Scott, H and Martin, PE and Graham, SV},
title = {Modulation of connexin 43 in viral infections.},
journal = {Tumour virus research},
volume = {18},
number = {},
pages = {200296},
pmid = {39522757},
issn = {2666-6790},
mesh = {*Connexin 43/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; *Gap Junctions/metabolism ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/metabolism/genetics ; Animals ; RNA Viruses/immunology/physiology ; },
abstract = {Connexins are essential for intercellular communication through gap junctions and the maintenance of cellular and tissue homeostasis. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most ubiquitously expressed connexin. As well as regulating homeostasis, Cx43 hemichannels and gap junctions play important roles in inflammation and the immune response. This, coupled with a range of non-channel functions performed by Cx43 makes it an attractive target for viruses. Recently, several groups have begun to explore the relationship between Cx43 and viral infection, with a diverse array of viruses being found to alter Cx43 hemichannels/gap junctions. Importantly, this includes several small DNA tumour viruses, which may target Cx43 to promote tumorigenesis. This review focuses on the ability of selected RNA/DNA viruses and retroviruses to either positively or negatively regulate Cx43 hemichannels and gap junctions in order to carry out their lifecycles. The role of Cx43 regulation by tumour viruses is also discussed in relation to tumour progression.},
}

*Connexin 43/metabolism/genetics
Humans
*Gap Junctions/metabolism
*Virus Diseases/immunology/metabolism/genetics
Animals
RNA Viruses/immunology/physiology

@article {pmid38631853,
year = {2024},
author = {Kosaka, N and Uchiyama, T and Onozawa, M and Nagai, J and Koya, J and Ishizaka, S and Nagai, T and Ikebe, Y and Kato, K and Tanei, ZI and Sakakibara-Konishi, J and Hasegawa, Y and Ohigashi, H and Goto, H and Hashimoto, D and Ujiie, H and Hirano, S and Konno, S and Anzai, T and Taniguchi, K and Tanaka, S and Teshima, T},
title = {Acute Onset of Constrictive Pericarditis Due to Acute Myelomonocytic Leukemia: A Case and Literature Review.},
journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)},
volume = {63},
number = {24},
pages = {3359-3365},
doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.3505-24},
pmid = {38631853},
issn = {1349-7235},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pericarditis, Constrictive/etiology/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging ; Fatal Outcome ; Male ; *Leukemia, Myelomonocytic, Acute/complications/diagnosis ; Aged ; Diagnosis, Differential ; COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {We herein present a fatal case of constrictive pericarditis (CP) due to acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMML) in a patient who initially complained of an acute onset of chest pain two days after coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination. An autopsy revealed pericardial infiltration of leukemic cells. CP is rarely associated with leukemia and only 14 cases have been reported in the literature. The etiology of CP in previous reports included leukemic infiltration, graft-versus-host disease, drug-induced, post-radiation, autoimmune, and otherwise unidentified. This case indicates that leukemic infiltration can cause CP and that clinicians should include leukemia in the differential diagnosis of CP.},
}

Humans
*Pericarditis, Constrictive/etiology/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging
Fatal Outcome
Male
*Leukemia, Myelomonocytic, Acute/complications/diagnosis
Aged
Diagnosis, Differential
COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid38500280,
year = {2025},
author = {Adeva-Andany, MM and Carneiro-Freire, N and Castro-Quintela, E and Ameneiros-Rodriguez, E and Adeva-Contreras, L and Fernandez-Fernandez, C},
title = {Interferon Upregulation Associates with Insulin Resistance in Humans.},
journal = {Current diabetes reviews},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {86-105},
pmid = {38500280},
issn = {1875-6417},
mesh = {Humans ; *Insulin Resistance ; *Interferons ; *Up-Regulation ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 ; COVID-19/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {In humans, insulin resistance is a physiological response to infections developed to supply sufficient energy to the activated immune system. This metabolic adaptation facilitates the immune response but usually persists after the recovery period of the infection and predisposes the hosts to type 2 diabetes and vascular injury. In patients with diabetes, superimposed insulin resistance worsens metabolic control and promotes diabetic ketoacidosis. Pathogenic mechanisms underlying insulin resistance during microbial invasions remain to be fully defined. However, interferons cause insulin resistance in healthy subjects and other population groups, and their production is increased during infections, suggesting that this group of molecules may contribute to reduced insulin sensitivity. In agreement with this notion, gene expression profiles (transcriptomes) from patients with insulin resistance show a robust overexpression of interferon- stimulated genes (interferon signature). In addition, serum levels of interferon and surrogates for interferon activity are elevated in patients with insulin resistance. Circulating levels of interferon- γ-inducible protein-10, neopterin, and apolipoprotein L1 correlate with insulin resistance manifestations, such as hypertriglyceridemia, reduced HDL-c, visceral fat, and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance. Furthermore, interferon downregulation improves insulin resistance. Antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine reduce interferon production and improve insulin resistance, reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In addition, diverse clinical conditions that feature interferon upregulation are associated with insulin resistance, suggesting that interferon may be a common factor promoting this adaptive response. Among these conditions are systemic lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, and infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.},
}

Humans
*Insulin Resistance
*Interferons
*Up-Regulation
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
COVID-19/immunology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39603070,
year = {2024},
author = {Rath, SK and Dash, AK and Sarkar, N and Panchpuri, M},
title = {A Glimpse for the subsistence from pandemic SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Bioorganic chemistry},
volume = {154},
number = {},
pages = {107977},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107977},
pmid = {39603070},
issn = {1090-2120},
abstract = {COVID-19 is an emerging viral pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, which is the causative agent of unprecedented disease-causing public health threats globally. Worldwide, this outbreak is wreaking havoc due to failure in risk assessment regarding the urgency of the pandemic. As per the reports, many secondary complications which include neurological, nephrological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, immune, and hepatic abnormalities, are linked with COVID -19 infection which is associated with prominent respiratory disorders including pneumonia. Hindering the initial binding of the virus with Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) through the spike protein is one potential boulevard of monoclonal antibodies. Although some drug regimens and vaccines have shown safety in trials, none have been entirely successful yet. This review highlights, some of the potential antibodies (tocilizumab, Sarilumab, Avdoralimab, Lenzilumab, Interferon (alfa /beta /gamma)) screened against SARS-CoV-2 and the most promising drugs (Favipiravir, Hydroxychloroquine, Niclosamide, Ribavirin, Baricitinib, Remdesivir, Arbidol Losartan, Ritonavir, Lopinavir, Baloxavir, Nitazoxanide, Camostat) in various stages of development with their synthetic protocol and their clinical projects are discussed to counter COVID -19.},
}

@article {pmid39602783,
year = {2024},
author = {Nascimento da Silva Mulder, J and Ramos Pinto, M and Aníbal, I and Dornellas, AP and Garrido, D and Huanca, C and Haddad, AE and Mendes Abdala, CV},
title = {Teledentistry Applied to Health and Education Outcomes: Evidence Gap Map.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {e60590},
pmid = {39602783},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine ; *COVID-19 ; Education, Dental/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Dentistry/methods ; Dental Care/methods/statistics & numerical data ; Systematic Reviews as Topic ; Evidence Gaps ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Teledentistry is a field of activities that comprises information and communication technologies (ICTs) applied to dentistry, including the exchange of clinical information, patient care, and the use of educational strategies across remote distances. Its use has grown progressively over the past decades-intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic-and has been improving the provision of dental services and educational strategies ever since.

OBJECTIVE: This evidence gap map (EGM) study aims to present a collection of systematic reviews (SRs) with meta-analyses to answer the question "What are the applications of teledentistry in dental services and dental education?" by identifying gaps and current evidence on the improvement of health care and education.

METHODS: The EGM methodology has been developed by the Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information and is based on the concept created by the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation. Embase, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library databases were used for the literature research, using terms for teledentistry associated with eHealth, dental education, and oral health care. The data obtained from the included studies were then characterized in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, with a matrix containing 8 intervention groups (combined interventions, e-learning and tele-education, teleconsultation and teleservice, telemonitoring, telediagnosis, telescreening, ICTs, and artificial intelligence) and 8 outcome groups (diagnosis accuracy, education and professional training, user behavior, clinical practice, patient-centered outcomes, clinical outcomes, health services management, and access to health services). The quality of the studies was assessed using AMSTAR2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews). The visual analytics platform Tableau (Salesforce) was used to graphically display the confidence level, number of reviews, health outcomes, and intervention effects.

RESULTS: The confidence level obtained by the criteria applied was high for 28% (19/68) of the studies, moderate for 6% (4/68), low for 15% (10/68), and critically low for 51% (35/68). Among the interventions, the ICT group stood out with 182 (36.8%) out of 494 associations, followed by interventions with e-learning and tele-education (n=96, 19.4% of associations), telediagnosis (n=67, 13.6%), and combined interventions (n=53, 10.7%). Most of the outcomes were aimed at education and professional training (97/494, 19.6% of associations), patient-centered outcomes (74/494, 15%), and health services management (60/494, 12.1%).

CONCLUSIONS: This EGM presents an overview of the contributions of teledentistry in patient care, health services, clinical practice, and education. The study results may help guide future research and policy decisions and serve as a convenient virtual tool for accessing valuable evidence-based information on teledentistry.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine
*COVID-19
Education, Dental/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Dentistry/methods
Dental Care/methods/statistics & numerical data
Systematic Reviews as Topic
Evidence Gaps

@article {pmid39601793,
year = {2024},
author = {Vercellone, F and Chiariello, AM and Esposito, A and Conte, M and Abraham, A and Fontana, A and Di Pierno, F and Tafuri, F and Guha, S and Kundu, S and Di Carluccio, C and Nicodemi, M and Bianco, S},
title = {A Multiscale Perspective on Chromatin Architecture through Polymer Physics.},
journal = {Physiology (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1152/physiol.00050.2024},
pmid = {39601793},
issn = {1548-9221},
support = {2022R8YXMR//Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca (MUR)/ ; CN00000041//EC | NextGenerationEU (NGEU)/ ; 1UM1HG011585-03//HHS | NIH | OSC | Common Fund (NIH Common Fund)/ ; },
abstract = {The spatial organization of chromatin within the eukaryotic nucleus is critical in regulating key cellular functions, such as gene expression, and its disruption can lead to disease. Advances in experimental techniques, such as Hi-C and microscopy, have significantly enhanced our understanding of chromatin's intricate and dynamic architecture, revealing complex patterns of interaction at multiple scales. Along with experimental methods, physics-based computational models, including polymer phase separation and loop-extrusion mechanisms, have been developed to explain chromatin structure in a principled manner. Here, we illustrate genome-wide applications of these models, highlighting their ability to predict chromatin contacts across different scales and to spread light on the underlying molecular determinants. Additionally, we discuss how these models provide a framework for understanding alterations in chromosome folding associated with disease states, such as SARS-CoV-2 infection and pathogenic structural variants, providing valuable insights into the role of chromatin architecture in health and disease.},
}

@article {pmid39601789,
year = {2024},
author = {Xu, L and Li, C and Liao, R and Xiao, Q and Wang, X and Zhao, Z and Zhang, W and Ding, X and Cao, Y and Cai, L and Rosenecker, J and Guan, S and Tang, J},
title = {From Sequence to System: Enhancing IVT mRNA Vaccine Effectiveness through Cutting-Edge Technologies.},
journal = {Molecular pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00863},
pmid = {39601789},
issn = {1543-8392},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted the potential of in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA vaccines with their demonstrated efficacy, safety, cost-effectiveness, and rapid manufacturing. Numerous IVT mRNA vaccines are now under clinical trials for a range of targets, including infectious diseases, cancers, and genetic disorders. Despite their promise, IVT mRNA vaccines face hurdles such as limited expression levels, nonspecific targeting beyond the liver, rapid degradation, and unintended immune activation. Overcoming these challenges is crucial to harnessing the full therapeutic potential of IVT mRNA vaccines for global health advancement. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research progress and optimization strategies for IVT mRNA molecules and delivery systems, including the application of artificial intelligence (AI) models and deep learning techniques for IVT mRNA structure optimization and mRNA delivery formulation design. We also discuss recent development of the delivery platforms, such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), polymers, and exosomes, which aim to address challenges related to IVT mRNA protection, cellular uptake, and targeted delivery. Lastly, we offer insights into future directions for improving IVT mRNA vaccines, with the hope to spur further progress in IVT mRNA vaccine research and development.},
}

@article {pmid39600629,
year = {2024},
author = {Prahlow, JA},
title = {Deaths Related to New-Onset Seizures After Vaccination.},
journal = {Academic forensic pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {19253621241297029},
pmid = {39600629},
issn = {1925-3621},
abstract = {Background: Adverse effects following vaccination are well-known. While most effects are mild and transient, some may be severe or even lethal. Particularly with regard to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations, which were "fast-tracked," it is incumbent upon the medical community to be diligent in identifying potential vaccine-associated adverse events so that physicians and patients can make truly informed decisions when considering the risks versus benefits of vaccination. Objective: To provide an in-depth discussion about post-vaccination seizures, particularly with regard to COVID-19 vaccinations. Research Design: Retrospective review of two cases where death was deemed to be the result of new-onset seizures; in each case, the seizures began shortly following vaccination. Subjects: In one case, death was certified by the primary care physician, without implicating the recent COVID-19 vaccination. In the other case, certified by the medical examiner, recent simultaneous vaccination with a COVID-19 vaccine and an influenza vaccine were considered to be contributory to death. Measures: The case specifics are presented for each case, including clinical work-up (both cases) and autopsy findings (one case). Conclusions: When attempting to determine whether or not a seizure-related death is due to a vaccine-induced new-onset seizure disorder, forensic pathologists need to rule-out other explanations for the seizures. Although a temporal association between seizures and vaccination is not sufficient, in and of itself, to prove causality, the temporal association, in combination with the absence of another explanation for seizures, and knowledge of similar cases in the medical literature, is sufficient to ascribe a causal role to the vaccination.},
}

@article {pmid39600395,
year = {2024},
author = {Jappe, U and Bergmann, KC and Brinkmann, F and Faihs, V and Gülsen, A and Klimek, L and Renz, H and Seurig, S and Taube, C and Traidl, S and Treudler, R and Wagenmann, M and Werfel, T and Worm, M and Zuberbier, T},
title = {Biologics in allergology and clinical immunology: Update on therapies for atopic diseases, urticaria, and angioedema and on safety aspects focusing on hypersensitivity reactions.},
journal = {Allergologie select},
volume = {8},
number = {},
pages = {365-406},
pmid = {39600395},
issn = {2512-8957},
abstract = {The development of targeted therapies for atopic diseases, urticaria, and angioedema with biologics is progressing rapidly: New "targets" of clinical-therapeutic relevance have been identified, the corresponding targeted antibodies developed, tested in clinical trials, and approved for therapy. These include the anti-IgE antibody omalizumab (also effective and approved for the treatment of urticaria), the anti-IL-4/13 receptor-specific antibody dupilumab, the two anti-IL-13 antibodies lebrikizumab and tralokinumab, the anti-TSLP antibody tezepelumab, the two anti-IL-5 antibodies mepolizumab and reslizumab, and the anti-IL5 receptor-specific antibody benralizumab for the treatment of atopic diseases. For the treatment of hereditary angioedema, C1 inhibitor and the antibody lanadelumab (directed against kallikrein) have also long been approved as biologics in addition to low-molecular substances. Other therapeutic antibodies are in various stages of development. Furthermore, the range of indications for some very effective biologics has been successfully expanded to include additional diseases. In this context, the first results on biologic therapy of food allergy and eosinophilic esophagitis are interesting. Biologics that address different target structures are also increasingly being administered in combination, either simultaneously or sequentially, in order to achieve optimal efficacy. A developing area is the use of biologics in children and the observation of immunological and non-immunological side effects. In some cases, new unexpected side effects and hypersensitivity reactions have emerged, which in turn raise pathomechanistic questions, such as conjunctivitis with dupilumab therapy, which only appears to occur in the treatment of atopic dermatitis but not in the treatment of other atopic diseases. In dermatology, paradoxical reactions have been described under therapy with some biologics. And immune reactions of type alpha to epsilon to biologics (hypersensitivity reactions) continue to be a clinically relevant problem, whereby the selection of an alternative therapeutic agent is a challenge and the diagnostics that support this have not yet been sufficiently incorporated into routine work.},
}

@article {pmid39600390,
year = {2024},
author = {Antonioni, A and Baroni, A and Fregna, G and Ahmed, I and Straudi, S},
title = {The effectiveness of home-based transcranial direct current stimulation on chronic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Digital health},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {20552076241292677},
pmid = {39600390},
issn = {2055-2076},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: As highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying strategies for home-based patient management is crucial. As pain is highly prevalent and imposes significant burdens, interest in its remote management is steadily increasing. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) seems promising in this context.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of home-based tDCS in pain management (PROSPERO, CRD42023452899). The extracted data included clinical conditions, interventions, comparators, outcome measures, adverse effects, and risk of bias; the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment was carried out.

RESULTS: 12 records (9 randomized controlled trials [RCTs], 446 participants, 266 undergoing tDCS) were included in the systematic review. The meta-analysis showed that home-based tDCS might produce large and clinically relevant improvement in chronic pain intensity at the end of the intervention (standard mean difference [SMD] -0.95, 95% CI -1.34 to -0.56; p < 0.01; 404 participants, low certainty), as well as small clinically unimportant improvement at short-term follow-up (SMD -0.50, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.19; p < 0.01; 160 participants, moderate certainty). A subgroup analysis showed that it might clinically improve the chronic pain related to fibromyalgia and knee osteoarthritis. Moreover, home-based tDCS seems to modulate pressure pain threshold, heat pain threshold, and heat and cold tolerance at the end of the intervention. Notably, tDCS appeared to be generally safe, well-accepted and easily applied at home.

CONCLUSIONS: Low to moderate certainty evidence suggests that home-based self-administered tDCS is a safe and effective tool for managing various types of chronic pain. Further well-designed, large-scale RCTs are warranted.},
}

@article {pmid39600289,
year = {2025},
author = {Ergun, T},
title = {Urticarial vasculitis.},
journal = {Current opinion in rheumatology},
volume = {37},
number = {1},
pages = {45-50},
doi = {10.1097/BOR.0000000000001058},
pmid = {39600289},
issn = {1531-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *Urticaria/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; Vasculitis/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vasculitis, Leukocytoclastic, Cutaneous/diagnosis/therapy ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Urticarial vasculitis is a rare condition manifesting with a variety of clinical presentations ranging from skin limited lesions to life-threatening systemic illnesses. This review aims to highlight the recent findings on the etiology, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic strategies and course of urticarial vasculitis.

RECENT FINDINGS: In addition to well established triggers, urticarial vasculitis (UV) cases associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov2) disease and COVID-19 vaccines, vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, somatic (VEXAS) syndrome, and adenosine deaminase (ADA) deficiency have been reported. A clinical-dermoscopic model for differentiating urticarial vasculitis has been developed with purpuric patches and globules favoring UV diagnosis and thus diminishing the need for histopathology. The efficacy of treatment modalities has been reviewed, and antihistamines, systemic corticosteroids, omalizumab, cyclophosphamide, tocilizumab, anti-interleukin (IL)-1 agents, and rituximab were shown to have the highest success rates. Regarding the durability of remission, rituximab, dapsone, and MMF were related to long-lasting treatment free responses. The course of hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis was investigated in an epidemiological study, revealing 5- and 10-year survival rates of 92% and 83%, respectively. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, septicemia, and end-stage renal disease were identified as causes of mortality.

SUMMARY: With the aid of dermoscopy, a noninvasive tool, differentiation from chronic spontaneous urticaria can be made, and the need for histopathological examination can be diminished. Although clear definitions and consensus criteria for performing disease severity are lacking, careful screening is needed to tailor the treatment on an individual basis. Emerging infections like SARS-CoV 2, vaccines, and autoinflammatory disorders like VEXAS syndrome and ADA deficiency are new associations. The optimal use of well established agents like systemic corticosteroids and immunomodulators are mainstay treatment modalities, whereas IL-1 inhibitors, omalizumab, rituximab and Janus Kinase inhibitors may represent viable alternatives in selected cases.},
}

Humans
*Urticaria/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
Vasculitis/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
Vasculitis, Leukocytoclastic, Cutaneous/diagnosis/therapy
COVID-19 Vaccines

@article {pmid39599909,
year = {2024},
author = {Livieratos, A and Gogos, C and Akinosoglou, K},
title = {Beyond Antivirals: Alternative Therapies for Long COVID.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599909},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Metformin/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; Fatty Acids, Omega-3/therapeutic use ; Dexamethasone/therapeutic use ; Naltrexone/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Long COVID or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) is a condition characterized by numerous lingering symptoms that persist for weeks to months following the viral illness. While treatment for PASC is still evolving, several therapeutic approaches beyond traditional antiviral therapies are being investigated, such as immune-modulating agents, anti-inflammatory drugs, and various supportive interventions focusing at alleviating symptoms and enhancing recovery. We aimed to summarize the breadth of available evidence, identify knowledge gaps, and highlight promising non-antiviral therapies for Long COVID/PASC. We followed the framework of a scoping methodology by mapping existing evidence from a range of studies, including randomized clinical trials, observational research, and case series. Treatments evaluated include metformin, low-dose naltrexone (LDN), dexamethasone, statins, omega-3 fatty acids, L-arginine, and emerging therapies like intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and therapeutic apheresis. Early findings suggest that metformin has the strongest clinical evidence, particularly from large phase 3 trials, while LDN and dexamethasone show potential based on observational studies. However, many treatments lack robust, large-scale trials. This review emphasizes the need for further research to confirm the efficacy of these treatments and guide clinical practice for Long COVID management.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Metformin/therapeutic use
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use
Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use
Fatty Acids, Omega-3/therapeutic use
Dexamethasone/therapeutic use
Naltrexone/therapeutic use

@article {pmid39599908,
year = {2024},
author = {Goens, MM and Howard, EL and Warner, BM and Susta, L and Wootton, SK},
title = {Rapid Development of Small Rodent Animal Models for Infectious Disease Research Through Vectorized Receptor Molecule Expression.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599908},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Models, Animal ; Humans ; *Rodentia ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19/virology ; Mice ; Genetic Vectors/genetics ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/genetics ; Communicable Diseases/virology ; },
abstract = {The emergence and re-emergence of pathogens with pandemic potential has been a persistent issue throughout history. Recent decades have seen significant outbreaks of zoonotic viruses from members of the Coronaviridae, Filoviridae, Paramyxoviridae, Flaviviridae, and Togaviridae families, resulting in widespread infections. The continual emergence of zoonotic viral pathogens and associated infections highlights the need for prevention strategies and effective treatments. Central to this effort is the availability of suitable animal models, which are essential for understanding pathogenesis and assessing transmission dynamics. These animals are also critical for evaluating the safety and efficacy of novel vaccines or therapeutics and are essential in facilitating regulatory approval of new products. Rapid development of animal models is an integral aspect of pandemic response and preparedness; however, their establishment is fraught by several rate-limiting steps, including selection of a suitable species, the logistical challenges associated with sharing and disseminating transgenic animals (e.g., the time-intensive nature of breeding and maintaining colonies), the availability of technical expertise, as well as ethical and regulatory approvals. A method for the rapid development of relevant animal models that has recently gained traction, in large part due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is the use of gene therapy vectors to express human viral receptors in readily accessible laboratory animals to enable virus infection and development of clinical disease. These models can be developed rapidly on any genetic background, making mechanistic studies and accelerated evaluation of novel countermeasures possible. In this review, we will discuss important considerations for the effective development of animal models using viral vector approaches and review the current vector-based animal models for studying viral pathogenesis and evaluating prophylactic and therapeutic strategies, with an emphasis on models of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on the vectorized expression of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2.},
}

Animals
*Disease Models, Animal
Humans
*Rodentia
*SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19/virology
Mice
Genetic Vectors/genetics
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/genetics
Communicable Diseases/virology

@article {pmid39599873,
year = {2024},
author = {Oliveira Neto, NF and Caixeta, RAV and Zerbinati, RM and Zarpellon, AC and Caetano, MW and Pallos, D and Junges, R and Costa, ALF and Aitken-Saavedra, J and Giannecchini, S and Braz-Silva, PH},
title = {The Emergence of Saliva as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Tool for Viral Infections.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599873},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {2021/07490-0//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2020/15533-8//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2021.1.10424.1.9//Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa e Inovação da Universidade de São Paulo/ ; 001//Coordenação de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 2018-20//Ricerca Virologica Oretta Bartolomei Corsi/ ; },
mesh = {*Saliva/virology ; Humans ; *Virus Diseases/diagnosis ; *Viral Load ; Prognosis ; *Virus Shedding ; *Biomarkers/analysis ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; COVID-19/diagnosis/virology ; },
abstract = {Saliva has emerged as a promising diagnostic fluid for viral infections, enabling the direct analysis of viral genetic material and the detection of infection markers such as proteins, metabolites, microRNAs, and immunoglobulins. This comprehensive review aimed to explore the use of saliva as a diagnostic tool for viral infections, emphasizing its advantages and limitations. Saliva stands out due to its simplicity and safety in collection, along with the convenience of self-collection without the need for healthcare supervision, while potentially being comparable to urine and blood in terms of effectiveness. Herein, we highlighted the significant potential of saliva in assessing viral loads and diagnosing viral infections, such as herpesviruses, HPV, PyV, TTV, SARS-CoV-2, and MPXV. The detection of viral shedding in saliva underscores its utility in early diagnosis, the monitoring of infection progression, and evaluating treatment responses. The non-invasive nature of saliva collection makes it an appealing alternative to more invasive methods, promoting better patient compliance and facilitating large-scale screening and surveillance. As such, we further highlight current evidence on the use of saliva as a prognostic tool. Although a significant amount of data is already available, further investigations are warranted to more comprehensively assess the added benefit from the utilization of salivary biomarkers in the clinics. Salivary biomarkers show great promise for the early detection and prevention of viral infection complications, potentially improving disease management and control at the population level. Integrating these non-invasive tools into routine clinical practice could enhance personalized healthcare strategies and patient outcomes. Future studies should focus on establishing standardization protocols, validating the accuracy of salivary diagnostics, and expanding clinical research to enhance the diagnostic and monitoring capabilities of salivary biomarkers.},
}

*Saliva/virology
Humans
*Virus Diseases/diagnosis
*Viral Load
Prognosis
*Virus Shedding
*Biomarkers/analysis
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
COVID-19/diagnosis/virology

@article {pmid39357662,
year = {2024},
author = {Bachelet, VC and Lizana, FJ and Andrades, CO and Carroza, B and González, LRA and Munita, P and Wosiack, L and Meza, N},
title = {Estimates for diagnostic accuracy of rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 in systematic reviews are consistently similar despite poor methodological rigor: a methodological overview.},
journal = {Journal of clinical epidemiology},
volume = {176},
number = {},
pages = {111547},
doi = {10.1016/j.jclinepi.2024.111547},
pmid = {39357662},
issn = {1878-5921},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Sensitivity and Specificity ; *COVID-19 Serological Testing/methods/standards ; *Systematic Reviews as Topic ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Antigens, Viral/analysis ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the design, conduct, and analysis of systematic reviews on the diagnostic accuracy of rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We did a methodological overview of systematic reviews on diagnostic test accuracy, exploring methodological rigor, risk of bias and potential factors of between-review variability.

RESULTS: Of the 31 included reviews, 30 provided summary statistics for sensitivity and 29 for specificity. Summary sensitivities ranged from 56.2% to 91.1%, with a median of 71.5% (IQR 68.3%-76.6%) and a mean of 72.7% with a 7.2 SD. Reported summary specificity estimates were consistently high: median 99.5% (IQR 99%-99.9%) and a mean of 99.3% with a 0.9 SD. We found methodological shortcomings in the systematic reviews, with a majority showing critically low confidence in quality and a high risk of bias.

CONCLUSION: Despite significant methodological flaws in the reviews, the diagnostic accuracy estimates for rapid antigen tests were characterized by a strong central tendency, highlighting the importance of large sample sizes and broad participant representation. This study suggests the need for further research in diagnostic test accuracy assessments of rigor and risk of bias in systematic reviews.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*Sensitivity and Specificity
*COVID-19 Serological Testing/methods/standards
*Systematic Reviews as Topic
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Antigens, Viral/analysis

@article {pmid39299001,
year = {2024},
author = {Goldin, S and Brooks, D and Jorgensen, P and Wijesinghe, P and Cho, H and Attia, R and Doshi, R and Nogareda, F and Herring, B and Dumolard, L and Gibson, R and Chadwick, C and Desai, S and Vilajeliu, A and Lindstrand, A and Tempia, S and Mott, J and Hess, S},
title = {Seasonal influenza vaccination: A global review of national policies in 194 WHO member states in 2022.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {42},
number = {26},
pages = {126274},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126274},
pmid = {39299001},
issn = {1873-2518},
support = {001/WHO_/World Health Organization/International ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *World Health Organization ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; *Health Policy ; Global Health ; Seasons ; Immunization Programs/statistics & numerical data ; Female ; Pregnancy ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Seasonal influenza vaccination prevents severe influenza disease and death. The World Health Organization (WHO) encourages all countries to consider annual seasonal influenza vaccination for health workers, people with chronic conditions, older adults, pregnant women and other high-risk populations as relevant for their national context. This paper provides a global update on the status of countries' influenza vaccination policies and programmes as of December 2022.

METHODS: We analysed the WHO-UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) Joint Reporting Form on Immunization's influenza vaccine-related data. We used STATA 17 to conduct descriptive analyses of reported seasonal influenza vaccine availability and seasonal influenza vaccination policies globally.

RESULTS: Seasonal influenza vaccine doses were available in 74 % of WHO Member States (143/194) in 2022. Fewer countries, 66 % of WHO Member States (128/194), had a seasonal influenza vaccination policy, of which 68 countries reported having a policy for the public sector, 53 for the public and private sectors, two for the private sector only, and five did not report the sector. More than half of WHO Member States (100 countries) recommend annual seasonal influenza vaccination for all four of the WHO recommended priority groups. Influenza vaccination coverage data were reported by 64 countries; globally the median coverage rates varied by group: 37 % for pregnant women, 55 % for older adults and 62 % for health workers.

DISCUSSION: The number of countries using seasonal influenza vaccines has grown over time, but there is still opportunity for continued development and strengthening of national programmes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To support countries, WHO is providing technical guidance and resources to enable better reporting of influenza vaccination data. More complete and higher quality data will help countries and global health stakeholders to support national decision-making and programme strengthening. Where available, WHO encourages countries to co-administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccination to increase programmatic efficiency and coverage of both vaccines among recommended groups.},
}

Humans
*Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage
*World Health Organization
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
*Health Policy
Global Health
Seasons
Immunization Programs/statistics & numerical data
Female
Pregnancy

@article {pmid39599942,
year = {2023},
author = {Mok, SY and Adams, SE and Holland, AJA},
title = {What Changes Have Occurred in the Pattern of Paediatric Burns in the Last Years with Special Attention to the COVID-19 Pandemic?.},
journal = {European burn journal},
volume = {4},
number = {3},
pages = {501-513},
pmid = {39599942},
issn = {2673-1991},
abstract = {Burns in children remain a prominent mode of injury, resulting in considerable morbidity and mortality globally and are a key cause of disability-adjusted life-years. Paediatric burns present a unique challenge, in part due to the developmental, physical and emotional differences between adults and children. Those living in low- and middle-income settings are particularly vulnerable, facing problems such as overcrowding and floor-level cooking. During the COVID-19 pandemic, stay at home orders and the closure of schools and childcare changed the pattern of paediatric injury across the world, resulting in a general increase in trauma-related presentations. This review will examine recent global trends in paediatric burns, including the impact of COVID-19, specifically focusing on the pattern of burn aetiology over the past decade. It will also look at any changes with regard to epidemiological characteristics; burn site, severity and extent; first aid and location; and management and outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid39599809,
year = {2024},
author = {Alghamdi, F and Mokbel, K and Meertens, R and Obotiba, AD and Alharbi, M and Knapp, KM and Strain, WD},
title = {Bone Mineral Density, Bone Biomarkers, and Joints in Acute, Post, and Long COVID-19: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599809},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *Bone Density ; *Biomarkers ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Joints/virology ; Osteoporosis/metabolism ; Bone and Bones/metabolism/virology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 is highly transmissible and affects the respiratory system. People with COVID-19 are at higher risk of physical and mental health conditions, which could impact bone health. The aim of this review was to explore the effects of COVID-19 on BMD, BTMs, and joints. An electronic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Ovid Medline databases considered studies published between 1 January 2020 and 1 November 2023. The search was limited to English, original studies in adult humans. The title and abstract of the identified papers were screened, followed by a full-text review using inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data extracted included the study and participant characteristics, BTMs, BMD, and joint abnormalities. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale quality assessment tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Five studies involving 305 out of 495 infected individuals observed a reduced BMD after COVID-19, with the most significant reduction occurring a year later. Both bone resorption and bone formation markers decreased, while regulatory markers showed higher levels in infected patients. COVID-19 may harm bone health by increasing bone regulatory markers and reducing bone formation and absorption, leading to a lower BMD. Elderly, frail, and osteopenic or osteoporotic individuals are at higher risk and should be regularly monitored for bone loss if they have long COVID.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
*Bone Density
*Biomarkers
*SARS-CoV-2
Joints/virology
Osteoporosis/metabolism
Bone and Bones/metabolism/virology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39599763,
year = {2024},
author = {Katiyar, H and Arduini, A and Li, Y and Liang, C},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Assembly: Gaining Infectivity and Beyond.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {16},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599763},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {PJT-166048, PJT-185996/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology/pathogenicity/immunology ; *COVID-19/virology/immunology ; *Virus Assembly ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/immunology/genetics ; Virus Replication ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was responsible for causing the COVID-19 pandemic. Intensive research has illuminated the complex biology of SARS-CoV-2 and its continuous evolution during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. While much attention has been paid to the structure and functions of the viral spike protein and the entry step of viral infection, partly because these are targets for neutralizing antibodies and COVID-19 vaccines, the later stages of SARS-CoV-2 replication, including the assembly and egress of viral progenies, remain poorly characterized. This includes insight into how the activities of the viral structural proteins are orchestrated spatially and temporally, which cellular proteins are assimilated by the virus to assist viral assembly, and how SARS-CoV-2 counters and evades the cellular mechanisms antagonizing virus assembly. In addition to becoming infectious, SARS-CoV-2 progenies also need to survive the hostile innate and adaptive immune mechanisms, such as recognition by neutralizing antibodies. This review offers an updated summary of the roles of SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins in viral assembly, the regulation of assembly by viral and cellular factors, and the cellular mechanisms that restrict this process. Knowledge of these key events often reveals the vulnerabilities of SARS-CoV-2 and aids in the development of effective antiviral therapeutics.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology/pathogenicity/immunology
*COVID-19/virology/immunology
*Virus Assembly
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/immunology/genetics
Virus Replication
Antibodies, Viral/immunology

@article {pmid39599582,
year = {2024},
author = {Sartini, M and Del Puente, F and Carbone, A and Schinca, E and Ottria, G and Dupont, C and Piccinini, C and Oliva, M and Cristina, ML},
title = {The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation Post COVID-19 Infection and Related Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {16},
number = {22},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599582},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamin D/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Dietary Supplements ; *COVID-19/mortality ; *Length of Stay ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Treatment Outcome ; Vitamins/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vitamin D's role in COVID-19 management remains controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, focusing on mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, intubation rates, and hospital length of stay (LOS).

METHODS: A systematic review of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases was conducted. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and analytical studies investigating vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 patients were included. The meta-analysis was performed using STATA MP 18.5, employing random-effect or fixed-effect models based on heterogeneity.

RESULTS: Twenty-nine studies (twenty-one RCTs, eight analytical) were analyzed. Vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced ICU admissions (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.79) in RCTs and analytical studies (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18 to 0.66). Intubation rates were significantly reduced in RCTs (OR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.92). Mortality reduction was significant in analytical studies (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.86) but not in RCTs (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.61 to 1.04). Subgroup analyses revealed more pronounced effects in older patients and severe COVID-19 cases. LOS showed a non-significant reduction (mean difference = -0.62 days, 95% CI: -1.41 to 0.18).

CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggests potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 patients, particularly in reducing ICU admissions. However, the evidence varies across outcomes and patient subgroups. Discrepancies between RCTs and analytical studies highlight the need for further large-scale, well-designed trials accounting for baseline vitamin D status, standardized supplementation protocols, and patient characteristics to inform clinical guidelines for vitamin D use in COVID-19 management.},
}

Humans
*Vitamin D/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Dietary Supplements
*COVID-19/mortality
*Length of Stay
*SARS-CoV-2
Intensive Care Units
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Treatment Outcome
Vitamins/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Female
Male
Middle Aged

@article {pmid39599560,
year = {2024},
author = {Karapati, E and Tsantes, AG and Iliodromiti, Z and Boutsikou, T and Paliatsiou, S and Domouchtsidou, A and Ioannou, P and Petrakis, V and Iacovidou, N and Sokou, R},
title = {Group A Streptococcus Infections in Children: Epidemiological Insights Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {39599560},
issn = {2076-0817},
abstract = {Group A streptococcus (GAS) is the cause of both mild and invasive infections in humans with a high morbidity and mortality rate. The transmission of disease usually occurs via droplets, so the implementation of infection mitigation strategies (IMS) during the COVID-19 pandemic altered the incidence of GAS infection. This review aims to provide an overview of the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of GAS infection in children (invasive or non-invasive). A surge in the incidence of invasive GAS infection was noted in December 2022 after the reversal of IMS. A global uprise in GAS infection (invasive and non-invasive) was noted, especially concerning the pediatric population. Children younger than 5 years old were mostly affected, with complicated pneumonia being the leading clinical manifestation, causing many deaths worldwide. Emm1, specifically M1UK, was recognized as the dominant lineage in Europe and correlated with invasive disease. Healthcare professionals need to be alert about the severity of GAS-related infections, leading to early identification and treatment.},
}