@article {pmid37243253, year = {2023}, author = {Akinosoglou, K and Rigopoulos, EA and Schinas, G and Kaiafa, G and Polyzou, E and Tsoupra, S and Tzouvelekis, A and Gogos, C and Savopoulos, C}, title = {Remdesivir Use in the Real-World Setting: An Overview of Available Evidence.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {37243253}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {In the years of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), various treatment options have been utilized. COVID-19 continues to circulate in the global population, and the evolution of the Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has posed significant challenges to the treatment and prevention of infection. Remdesivir (RDV), an anti-viral agent with in vitro efficacy against coronaviruses, is a potent and safe treatment as suggested by a plethora of in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials. Emerging real-world data have confirmed its effectiveness, and there are currently datasets evaluating its efficacy and safety against SARS-CoV-2 infections in various clinical scenarios, including some that are not in the SmPC recommendations according for COVID-19 pharmacotherapy. Remdesivir increases the chance of recovery, reduces progression to severe disease, lowers mortality rates, and exhibits beneficial post-hospitalization outcomes, especially when used early in the course of the disease. Strong evidence suggests the expansion of remdesivir use in special populations (e.g., pregnancy, immunosuppression, renal impairment, transplantation, elderly and co-medicated patients) where the benefits of treatment outweigh the risk of adverse effects. In this article, we attempt to overview the available real-world data of remdesivir pharmacotherapy. With the unpredictable course of COVID-19, we need to utilize all available knowledge to bridge the gap between clinical research and clinical practice and be sufficiently prepared for the future.}, } @article {pmid37243251, year = {2023}, author = {Schinas, G and Moustaka, V and Polyzou, E and Almyroudi, MP and Dimopoulos, G and Akinosoglou, K}, title = {Targeting CMV Reactivation to Optimize Care for Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: A Review on the Therapeutic Potential of Antiviral Treatment.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {37243251}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation has been linked to adverse clinical outcomes in critically ill patients, with emerging evidence suggesting a potential connection with severe COVID-19. Mechanisms driving this association may include primary lung injury, amplification of systemic inflammation, and secondary immunosuppression. Diagnostic challenges in detecting and assessing CMV reactivation necessitate a comprehensive approach to improve accuracy and inform treatment decisions. Currently, there is limited evidence on the efficacy and safety of CMV pharmacotherapy in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Although insights from non-COVID-19 critical illness studies suggest a potential role for antiviral treatment or prophylaxis, the risks and benefits must be carefully balanced in this vulnerable patient population. Understanding the pathophysiological role of CMV in the context of COVID-19 and exploring the advantages of antiviral treatment are crucial for optimizing care in critically ill patients. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of available evidence, emphasizing the need for additional investigation to establish the role of CMV treatment or prophylaxis in the management of severe COVID-19 and to develop a framework for future research on this topic.}, } @article {pmid37243246, year = {2023}, author = {Principi, N and Autore, G and Ramundo, G and Esposito, S}, title = {Epidemiology of Respiratory Infections during the COVID-19 Pandemic.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, pmid = {37243246}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {To face the COVID-19 outbreak, a wide range of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) aimed at limiting the spread of the virus in communities, such as mask-wearing, hand hygiene, social distancing, travel restrictions, and school closures, were introduced in most countries. Thereafter, a significant reduction of new asymptomatic and symptomatic COVID-19 cases occurred, although there were differences between countries according to the type and duration of the NPIs. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has been accompanied by significant variations in the global incidence of diseases due to the most common non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses and some bacteria. In this narrative review, the epidemiology of the most common non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infections during the COVID-19 pandemic is detailed. Moreover, factors that could have had a role in modifying the traditional circulation of respiratory pathogens are discussed. A literature analysis shows that NPIs were the most important cause of the general reduction in the incidence of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus infection in the first year of the pandemic, although the different sensitivity of each virus to NPIs, the type and duration of measures used, as well as the interference among viruses may have played a role in modulating viral circulation. Reasons for the increase in the incidences of Streptococcus pneumoniae and group A Streptococcus infections seem strictly linked to immunity debt and the role played by NPIs in reducing viral infections and limiting bacterial superimposed infections. These results highlight the importance of NPIs during pandemics, the need to monitor the circulation of infectious agents that cause diseases similar to those caused by pandemic agents, and the need to make efforts to improve coverage with available vaccines.}, } @article {pmid37243244, year = {2023}, author = {Cheng, Y and Ji, C and Zhou, HY and Zheng, H and Wu, A}, title = {Web Resources for SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Database, Annotation, Analysis and Variant Tracking.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v15051158}, pmid = {37243244}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {The SARS-CoV-2 genomic data continue to grow, providing valuable information for researchers and public health officials. Genomic analysis of these data sheds light on the transmission and evolution of the virus. To aid in SARS-CoV-2 genomic analysis, many web resources have been developed to store, collate, analyze, and visualize the genomic data. This review summarizes web resources used for the SARS-CoV-2 genomic epidemiology, covering data management and sharing, genomic annotation, analysis, and variant tracking. The challenges and further expectations for these web resources are also discussed. Finally, we highlight the importance and need for continued development and improvement of related web resources to effectively track the spread and understand the evolution of the virus.}, } @article {pmid37243203, year = {2023}, author = {Dutta, D and Liu, J and Xiong, H}, title = {The Impact of COVID-19 on People Living with HIV-1 and HIV-1-Associated Neurological Complications.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v15051117}, pmid = {37243203}, issn = {1999-4915}, support = {R01 DA050540/DA/NIDA NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative pathogen of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a fatal respiratory illness. The associated risk factors for COVID-19 are old age and medical comorbidities. In the current combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) era, a significant portion of people living with HIV-1 (PLWH) with controlled viremia is older and with comorbidities, making these people vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-associated severe outcomes. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 is neurotropic and causes neurological complications, resulting in a health burden and an adverse impact on PLWH and exacerbating HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). The impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 severity on neuroinflammation, the development of HAND and preexisting HAND is poorly explored. In the present review, we compiled the current knowledge of differences and similarities between SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1, the conditions of the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 and HIV-1/AIDS syndemic and their impact on the central nervous system (CNS). Risk factors of COVID-19 on PLWH and neurological manifestations, inflammatory mechanisms leading to the neurological syndrome, the development of HAND, and its influence on preexisting HAND are also discussed. Finally, we have reviewed the challenges of the present syndemic on the world population, with a particular emphasis on PLWH.}, } @article {pmid37243186, year = {2023}, author = {Tian, WJ and Wang, XJ}, title = {Broad-Spectrum Antivirals Derived from Natural Products.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v15051100}, pmid = {37243186}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {Scientific advances have led to the development and production of numerous vaccines and antiviral drugs, but viruses, including re-emerging and emerging viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, remain a major threat to human health. Many antiviral agents are rarely used in clinical treatment, however, because of their inefficacy and resistance. The toxicity of natural products may be lower, and some natural products have multiple targets, which means less resistance. Therefore, natural products may be an effective means to solve virus infection in the future. New techniques and ideas are currently being developed for the design and screening of antiviral drugs thanks to recent revelations about virus replication mechanisms and the advancement of molecular docking technology. This review will summarize recently discovered antiviral drugs, mechanisms of action, and screening and design strategies for novel antiviral agents.}, } @article {pmid37243158, year = {2023}, author = {Buchynskyi, M and Kamyshna, I and Oksenych, V and Zavidniuk, N and Kamyshnyi, A}, title = {The Intersection of COVID-19 and Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: An Overview of the Current Evidence.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v15051072}, pmid = {37243158}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {The global population is currently experiencing the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which has caused the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. With our profound comprehension of COVID-19, encompassing the involvement sequence of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal system, and cardiovascular apparatus, the multiorgan symptoms of this infectious disease have been discerned. Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a pervasive public health concern intricately linked with metabolic dysregulation and estimated to afflict one-fourth of the global adult population. The burgeoning focus on the association between COVID-19 and MAFLD is justified by the potential role of the latter as a risk factor for both SARS-CoV-2 infection and the subsequent emergence of severe COVID-19 symptoms. Investigations have suggested that changes in both innate and adaptive immune responses among MAFLD patients may play a role in determining the severity of COVID-19. The remarkable similarities observed in the cytokine pathways implicated in both diseases imply the existence of shared mechanisms governing the chronic inflammatory responses characterizing these conditions. The effect of MAFLD on the severity of COVID-19 illness remains uncertain, as indicated by conflicting results in cohort investigations.}, } @article {pmid37243131, year = {2023}, author = {Devaux, CA and Camoin-Jau, L}, title = {Molecular Mimicry of the Viral Spike in the SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Possibly Triggers Transient Dysregulation of ACE2, Leading to Vascular and Coagulation Dysfunction Similar to SARS-CoV-2 Infection.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v15051045}, pmid = {37243131}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {The benefits of SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA vaccines are well known, including a significant decline in COVID-19 morbidity and a decrease in the mortality rate of SARS-CoV-2 infected persons. However, pharmacovigilance studies have revealed the existence of rare cases of cardiovascular complications after mass vaccination using such formulations. Cases of high blood pressure have also been reported but were rarely documented under perfectly controlled medical supervision. The press release of these warning signals triggered a huge debate over COVID-19 vaccines' safety. Thereby, our attention was quickly focused on issues involving the risk of myocarditis, acute coronary syndrome, hypertension and thrombosis. Rare cases of undesirable post-vaccine pathophysiological phenomena should question us, especially when they occur in young subjects. They are more likely to occur with inappropriate use of mRNA vaccine (e.g., at the time when the immune response is already very active during a low-noise infection in the process of healing), leading to angiotensin II (Ang II) induced inflammation triggering tissue damage. Such harmful effects observed after the COVID-19 vaccine evoke a possible molecular mimicry of the viral spike transiently dysregulating angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) function. Although the benefit/risk ratio of SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA vaccine is very favorable, it seems reasonable to suggest medical surveillance to patients with a history of cardiovascular diseases who receive the COVID-19 vaccine.}, } @article {pmid37243127, year = {2023}, author = {Hessien, M and Donia, T and Tabll, AA and Adly, E and Abdelhafez, TH and Attia, A and Alkafaas, SS and Kuna, L and Glasnovic, M and Cosic, V and Smolic, R and Smolic, M}, title = {Mechanistic-Based Classification of Endocytosis-Related Inhibitors: Does It Aid in Assigning Drugs against SARS-CoV-2?.}, journal = {Viruses}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/v15051040}, pmid = {37243127}, issn = {1999-4915}, abstract = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) canonically utilizes clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) and several other endocytic mechanisms to invade airway epithelial cells. Endocytic inhibitors, particularly those targeting CME-related proteins, have been identified as promising antiviral drugs. Currently, these inhibitors are ambiguously classified as chemical, pharmaceutical, or natural inhibitors. However, their varying mechanisms may suggest a more realistic classification system. Herein, we present a new mechanistic-based classification of endocytosis inhibitors, in which they are segregated among four distinct classes including: (i) inhibitors that disrupt endocytosis-related protein-protein interactions, and assembly or dissociation of complexes; (ii) inhibitors of large dynamin GTPase and/or kinase/phosphatase activities associated with endocytosis; (iii) inhibitors that modulate the structure of subcellular components, especially the plasma membrane, and actin; and (iv) inhibitors that cause physiological or metabolic alterations in the endocytosis niche. Excluding antiviral drugs designed to halt SARS-CoV-2 replication, other drugs, either FDA-approved or suggested through basic research, could be systematically assigned to one of these classes. We observed that many anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs could be included either in class III or IV as they interfere with the structural or physiological integrity of subcellular components, respectively. This perspective may contribute to our understanding of the relative efficacy of endocytosis-related inhibitors and support the optimization of their individual or combined antiviral potential against SARS-CoV-2. However, their selectivity, combined effects, and possible interactions with non-endocytic cellular targets need more clarification.}, } @article {pmid37243115, year = {2023}, author = {Calabrò, GE and Pappalardo, C and D'Ambrosio, F and Vece, M and Lupi, C and Lontano, A and Di Russo, M and Ricciardi, R and de Waure, C}, title = {The Impact of Vaccination on COVID-19 Burden of Disease in the Adult and Elderly Population: A Systematic Review of Italian Evidence.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11051011}, pmid = {37243115}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {COVID-19 is a major global health threat, with millions of confirmed cases and deaths worldwide. Containment and mitigation strategies, including vaccination, have been implemented to reduce transmission and protect the population. We conducted two systematic reviews to collect nonrandomized studies investigating the effects of vaccination on COVID-19-related complications and deaths in the Italian population. We considered studies conducted in Italian settings and written in English that contained data on the effects of vaccination on COVID-19-related mortality and complications. We excluded studies that pertained to the pediatric population. In total, we included 10 unique studies in our two systematic reviews. The results showed that fully vaccinated individuals had a lower risk of death, severe symptoms, and hospitalization compared to unvaccinated individuals. The review also looked at the impact of vaccination on post-COVID-19 syndrome, the effectiveness of booster doses in older individuals, and nationwide adverse events. Our work highlights the crucial role that vaccination campaigns have played in reducing the burden of COVID-19 disease in the Italian adult population, positively impacting the pandemic trajectory in Italy.}, } @article {pmid37243100, year = {2023}, author = {Fu, C and Lin, N and Zhu, J and Ye, Q}, title = {Association between Overweight/Obesity and the Safety and Efficacy of COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050996}, pmid = {37243100}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to appraise the interrelation between overweight/obesity and the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination by synthesizing the currently available evidence.

METHODS: A systematic review of published studies on the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine in people who were overweight or obese was conducted. Databases including Embase, Medline Epub (Ovid), PsychInfo (Ovid), Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar were searched to identify relevant studies. The databases of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) were also searched for relevant unpublished and gray literature.

RESULTS: Fifteen studies were included in the review. All the included studies used observational study designs; there were ten cohort studies and five cross-sectional studies. The sample size of these studies ranged from 21 to 9,171,524. Thirteen studies reported using BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech, USA), four reported using ChAdOx-nCov19 (AstraZeneca, U.K), two were reported using CoronaVac (Sinovac, China), and two were reported using mRNA1273 (Moderna, USA). The efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines have been extensively studied in individuals with overweight/obesity. Most studies have shown that the humoral response decreases with increasing BMI. The available evidence does not conclusively indicate that these vaccines are generally safe in this population.

CONCLUSION: While the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine may be less than ideal in people who are overweight or obese, it does not mean that obese people should not be vaccinated, as the vaccine can still provide some protection. There is a lack of evidence for conclusions to be drawn about the safety of the vaccine in the population. This study calls on health professionals, policymakers, caregivers, and all other stakeholders to focus on monitoring the possible adverse effects of injections in overweight/obese people.}, } @article {pmid37243096, year = {2023}, author = {Meade, E and Rowan, N and Garvey, M}, title = {Bioprocessing and the Production of Antiviral Biologics in the Prevention and Treatment of Viral Infectious Disease.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050992}, pmid = {37243096}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {Emerging, re-emerging and zoonotic viral pathogens represent a serious threat to human health, resulting in morbidity, mortality and potentially economic instability at a global scale. Certainly, the recent emergence of the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus (and its variants) highlighted the impact of such pathogens, with the pandemic creating unprecedented and continued demands for the accelerated production of antiviral therapeutics. With limited effective small molecule therapies available for metaphylaxis, vaccination programs have been the mainstay against virulent viral species. Traditional vaccines remain highly effective at providing high antibody titres, but are, however, slow to manufacture in times of emergency. The limitations of traditional vaccine modalities may be overcome by novel strategies, as outlined herein. To prevent future disease outbreaks, paradigm shift changes in manufacturing and distribution are necessary to advance the production of vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, cytokines and other antiviral therapies. Accelerated paths for antivirals have been made possible due to advances in bioprocessing, leading to the production of novel antiviral agents. This review outlines the role of bioprocessing in the production of biologics and advances in mitigating viral infectious disease. In an era of emerging viral diseases and the proliferation of antimicrobial resistance, this review provides insight into a significant method of antiviral agent production which is key to protecting public health.}, } @article {pmid37243095, year = {2023}, author = {Uversky, VN and Redwan, EM and Makis, W and Rubio-Casillas, A}, title = {IgG4 Antibodies Induced by Repeated Vaccination May Generate Immune Tolerance to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050991}, pmid = {37243095}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {Less than a year after the global emergence of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, a novel vaccine platform based on mRNA technology was introduced to the market. Globally, around 13.38 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses of diverse platforms have been administered. To date, 72.3% of the total population has been injected at least once with a COVID-19 vaccine. As the immunity provided by these vaccines rapidly wanes, their ability to prevent hospitalization and severe disease in individuals with comorbidities has recently been questioned, and increasing evidence has shown that, as with many other vaccines, they do not produce sterilizing immunity, allowing people to suffer frequent re-infections. Additionally, recent investigations have found abnormally high levels of IgG4 in people who were administered two or more injections of the mRNA vaccines. HIV, Malaria, and Pertussis vaccines have also been reported to induce higher-than-normal IgG4 synthesis. Overall, there are three critical factors determining the class switch to IgG4 antibodies: excessive antigen concentration, repeated vaccination, and the type of vaccine used. It has been suggested that an increase in IgG4 levels could have a protecting role by preventing immune over-activation, similar to that occurring during successful allergen-specific immunotherapy by inhibiting IgE-induced effects. However, emerging evidence suggests that the reported increase in IgG4 levels detected after repeated vaccination with the mRNA vaccines may not be a protective mechanism; rather, it constitutes an immune tolerance mechanism to the spike protein that could promote unopposed SARS-CoV2 infection and replication by suppressing natural antiviral responses. Increased IgG4 synthesis due to repeated mRNA vaccination with high antigen concentrations may also cause autoimmune diseases, and promote cancer growth and autoimmune myocarditis in susceptible individuals.}, } @article {pmid37243087, year = {2023}, author = {Thammathiwat, T and Banjongjit, A and Iampenkhae, K and Townamchai, N and Kanjanabuch, T}, title = {ANCA Associated Glomerulonephritis Following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: A Case Series and Systematic Review.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050983}, pmid = {37243087}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) proved beneficial for COVID-19 disease attenuation and preventing virus spreading. Cumulative reports of the rarity of antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) raise concerns about its relationship with COVID-19 vaccination. Several case reports described ANCA-associated pauci-immune glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN) following COVID-19 vaccination with some uniqueness. We systematically reviewed COVID-19 vaccine-induced ANCA-GN from PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane library databases until 1 January 2023 according to PRISMA guidelines and presented our three cases. Twenty-six cases from 25 articles, including our 3 cases, were analyzed. Most cases were diagnosed following the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (59%) with a median (IQR) interval onset of 14 (16) days. The highest prevalence was related to the mRNA-type vaccine. Anti-myeloperoxidase (MPO) ANCA was far more common than the other ANCAs, with various positive autoantibodies. Fourteen cases (out of 29 cases, 48%) had extra-kidney AAV manifestation. Although severe kidney injury was observed in 10/29 (34%), remission was achieved in 89% (25/28) with no death. The mechanisms of the vaccine-inducing ANCA-GN were postulated here. Since ANCA-GN after the COVID-19 vaccine was rare, the benefit of the COVID-19 vaccine could outweigh the risk of ANCA-GN side effects in the pandemic era.}, } @article {pmid37243078, year = {2023}, author = {Nabia, S and Wonodi, CB and Vilajeliu, A and Sussman, S and Olson, K and Cooke, R and Udayakumar, K and Twose, C and Ezeanya, N and Adefarrell, AA and Lindstrand, A}, title = {Experiences, Enablers, and Challenges in Service Delivery and Integration of COVID-19 Vaccines: A Rapid Systematic Review.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050974}, pmid = {37243078}, issn = {2076-393X}, support = {COVID Global Accountability Platform/GATES/Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation/United States ; }, abstract = {The COVID-19 vaccination is a crucial public health intervention for controlling the spread and severity of the SARS-CoV2 virus. COVID-19 vaccines have been developed in record time, but their deployment has varied across countries, owing to differences in health system capacity, demand for the vaccine, and purchasing power of countries. The aim of this rapid review is to summarize and synthesize experiences on COVID-19 vaccine service delivery and integration to inform future COVID-19 vaccination programming and contribute to the knowledge base for future pandemic management. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Global Index Medicus databases. Twenty-five studies were included in the analysis. Included studies spanned nine countries where COVID-19 vaccines were delivered through mass, mobile, and fixed-post vaccination service delivery models. There was limited evidence of integrating COVID-19 vaccines into routine services for pregnant women, people who inject drugs, and leveraging existing health programs to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to the general population. Common challenges reported were vaccine skepticism, lack of adequate health workers, and linguistic barriers to access. Partnerships with a variety of stakeholders and the involvement of volunteers were vital in overcoming barriers and contributed to the efficient functioning of COVID-19 vaccination programs.}, } @article {pmid37243073, year = {2023}, author = {Rodilla, AM and Tavolacci, S and Cagan, J and Shah, T and Mittan, S and Mack, PC and Hirsch, FR}, title = {Serological Response to SARS-CoV-2 after COVID-19 Vaccination in Lung Cancer Patients: Short Review.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050969}, pmid = {37243073}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {In comparison to the general population, lung cancer patients are more likely to suffer from severe Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and associated mortality. Considering this increased risk, and in order to prevent symptoms and severe disease, patients with lung cancer have been prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination primary and booster doses. Despite this, the pivotal clinical trials did not include these patients, which leaves open questions regarding vaccine efficacy and humoral immune response. This review outlines the findings of recent investigations into the humoral responses of lung cancer patients to COVID-19 vaccination, particularly the primary doses and first boost.}, } @article {pmid37243057, year = {2023}, author = {Albayat, S and Almaslamani, M and Alromaihi, H and Khogali, H and Mundodan, J and Joury, J and Haridy, H}, title = {Key Lessons from COVID-19: A Narrative Review Describing Qatar's Multifactorial Approach in Executing a Vaccination Campaign.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050953}, pmid = {37243057}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {Widespread vaccination programs have been implemented in many countries to curtail the COVID-19 pandemic, with varying success and challenges. To better understand the successes and challenges of the global COVID-19 response in the face of emerging new variants and epidemiologic data, we discuss how Qatar engaged the healthcare sector, governmental bodies, and the populace to combat COVID-19, with a focus on the country's vaccination strategy. This narrative provides the history and timeline of the Qatar COVID-19 vaccination campaign; factors that helped the vaccination campaign and the transferable lessons learned are discussed. Details regarding how Qatar responded to challenges, such as vaccine hesitancy and mitigation of misinformation, are highlighted. Qatar was one of the first countries to procure the BNT162b2 (Comirnaty[®]; Pfizer-BioNTech, Pfizer Inc., New York, NY, USA) and mRNA-1273 (Spikevax[®]; Moderna, Cambridge, MA, USA) COVID-19 vaccines. A relatively high vaccination rate and low case mortality rate (0.14% as of 4 January 2023) was observed in Qatar compared with other countries (global case mortality rate, 1.02%). Learnings will be carried forward as a basis for addressing this evolving pandemic and any future national emergencies in Qatar.}, } @article {pmid37243010, year = {2023}, author = {Alcendor, DJ and Matthews-Juarez, P and Smoot, D and Edwards, A and Hildreth, JEK and Juarez, PD}, title = {Vaccine Confidence and Uptake of the Omicron Bivalent Booster in Tennessee: Implications for Vulnerable Populations.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050906}, pmid = {37243010}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {The COVID-19 Omicron variant and its subvariants are now the dominant variants circulating in the US. Therefore, the original COVID-19 vaccine cannot offer full protection. Instead, vaccines that target the spike proteins of the Omicron variants are warranted. Hence, the FDA recommended the development of a bivalent booster. Unfortunately, despite the safety and immunogenicity of the Omicron bivalent boosters from Pfizer and Moderna, uptake in the US has been poor. At this time, only 15.8% of individuals in the US aged five and older have received the Omicron bivalent booster (OBB). The rate is 18% for those aged 18 and older. Poor vaccine confidence and booster uptake are often fueled by misinformation and vaccine fatigue. These result in more problems associated with vaccine hesitancy, which are particular prevalent in Southern states in the US. In Tennessee, the OBB vaccination rate for eligible recipients is only 5.88% at time of writing (16 February 2023). In this review, we discuss (1) the rationale for developing the OBBs; (2) the efficacy and safety of the bivalent boosters; (3) the adverse events associated with these boosters; (4) vaccine hesitancy associated with the OBBs uptake in Tennessee; (5) implications for vulnerable populations, disparities in uptake of OBBs in Tennessee, and strategies to improve vaccine confidence and OBB uptake. In support of public health, it is essential that we continue to provide education, awareness, and vaccine access to the vulnerable and medically underserved populations in Tennessee. Receiving the OBBs is the most effective method to date of protecting the public against severe COVID disease, hospitalization, and death.}, } @article {pmid37243006, year = {2023}, author = {Castrodeza-Sanz, J and Sanz-Muñoz, I and Eiros, JM}, title = {Adjuvants for COVID-19 Vaccines.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050902}, pmid = {37243006}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {In recent decades, the improvement of traditional vaccines has meant that we have moved from inactivated whole virus vaccines, which provoke a moderate immune response but notable adverse effects, to much more processed vaccines such as protein subunit vaccines, which despite being less immunogenic have better tolerability profiles. This reduction in immunogenicity is detrimental to the prevention of people at risk. For this reason, adjuvants are a good solution to improve the immunogenicity of this type of vaccine, with much better tolerability profiles and a low prevalence of side effects. During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination focused on mRNA-type and viral vector vaccines. However, during the years 2022 and 2023, the first protein-based vaccines began to be approved. Adjuvanted vaccines are capable of inducing potent responses, not only humoral but also cellular, in populations whose immune systems are weak or do not respond properly, such as the elderly. Therefore, this type of vaccine should complete the portfolio of existing vaccines, and could help to complete vaccination against COVID-19 worldwide now and over the coming years. In this review we analyze the advantages and disadvantages of adjuvants, as well as their use in current and future vaccines against COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37243000, year = {2023}, author = {De Vito, A and Colpani, A and Trunfio, M and Fiore, V and Moi, G and Fois, M and Leoni, N and Ruiu, S and Babudieri, S and Calcagno, A and Madeddu, G}, title = {Living with HIV and Getting Vaccinated: A Narrative Review.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050896}, pmid = {37243000}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {After 40 years of its appearance, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a leading public health challenge worldwide. Since the introduction of antiretroviral treatment (ART), HIV infection has become a chronic condition, and people living with HIV could have life expectancies close to those of the general population. People with HIV often have an increased risk of infection or experience more severe morbidity following exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases. Nowadays, several vaccines are available against bacteria and viruses. However, national and international vaccination guidelines for people with HIV are heterogeneous, and not every vaccine is included. For these reasons, we aimed to perform a narrative review about the vaccinations available for adults living with HIV, reporting the most updated studies performed for each vaccine among this population. We performed a comprehensive literature search through electronic databases (Pubmed-MEDLINE and Embase) and search engines (Google Scholar). We included English peer-reviewed publications (articles and reviews) on HIV and vaccination. Despite widespread use and guideline recommendations, few vaccine trials have been conducted in people with HIV. In addition, not all vaccines are recommended for people with HIV, especially for those with low CD4 cells count. Clinicians should carefully collect the history of vaccinations and patients' acceptance and preferences and regularly check the presence of antibodies for vaccine-preventable pathogens.}, } @article {pmid37242990, year = {2023}, author = {Kawuki, J and Chen, S and Fang, Y and Liang, X and Chan, PS and Wang, Z}, title = {COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance, Attitude and Perception among Slum and Underserved Communities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Vaccines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/vaccines11050886}, pmid = {37242990}, issn = {2076-393X}, abstract = {This systematic review summarises the literature on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, including acceptance, uptake, hesitancy, attitude and perceptions among slum and underserved communities. Relevant studies were searched from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, following a pre-registered protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42022355101) and PRISMA guidelines. We extracted data, used random-effects models to combine the vaccine acceptance, hesitancy and uptake rates categorically, and performed meta-regression by R software (version 4.2.1). Twenty-four studies with 30,323 participants met the inclusion criteria. The overall prevalence was 58% (95% CI: 49-67%) for vaccine acceptance, 23% (95% CI: 13-39%) for uptake and 29% (95% CI: 18-43%) for hesitancy. Acceptance and uptake were positively associated with various sociodemographic factors, including older age, higher education level, male gender, ethnicity/race (e.g., Whites vs African Americans), more knowledge and a higher level of awareness of vaccines, but some studies reported inconsistent results. Safety and efficacy concerns, low-risk perception, long distance to vaccination centres and unfavourable vaccination schedules were prominent reasons for hesitancy. Moreover, varying levels of attitudes and perceptions regarding COVID-19 vaccination were reported with existing misconceptions and negative beliefs, and these were strong predictors of vaccination. Infodemic management and continuous vaccine education are needed to address existing misconceptions and negative beliefs, and this should target young, less-educated women and ethnic minorities. Considering mobile vaccination units to vaccinate people at home or workplaces would be a useful strategy in addressing access barriers and increasing vaccine uptake.}, } @article {pmid37242804, year = {2023}, author = {Akanchise, T and Angelova, A}, title = {Ginkgo Biloba and Long COVID: In Vivo and In Vitro Models for the Evaluation of Nanotherapeutic Efficacy.}, journal = {Pharmaceutics}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics15051562}, pmid = {37242804}, issn = {1999-4923}, abstract = {Coronavirus infections are neuroinvasive and can provoke injury to the central nervous system (CNS) and long-term illness consequences. They may be associated with inflammatory processes due to cellular oxidative stress and an imbalanced antioxidant system. The ability of phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, such as Ginkgo biloba, to alleviate neurological complications and brain tissue damage has attracted strong ongoing interest in the neurotherapeutic management of long COVID. Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (EGb) contains several bioactive ingredients, e.g., bilobalide, quercetin, ginkgolides A-C, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and luteolin. They have various pharmacological and medicinal effects, including memory and cognitive improvement. Ginkgo biloba, through its anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, impacts cognitive function and other illness conditions like those in long COVID. While preclinical research on the antioxidant therapies for neuroprotection has shown promising results, clinical translation remains slow due to several challenges (e.g., low drug bioavailability, limited half-life, instability, restricted delivery to target tissues, and poor antioxidant capacity). This review emphasizes the advantages of nanotherapies using nanoparticle drug delivery approaches to overcome these challenges. Various experimental techniques shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the oxidative stress response in the nervous system and help comprehend the pathophysiology of the neurological sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection. To develop novel therapeutic agents and drug delivery systems, several methods for mimicking oxidative stress conditions have been used (e.g., lipid peroxidation products, mitochondrial respiratory chain inhibitors, and models of ischemic brain damage). We hypothesize the beneficial effects of EGb in the neurotherapeutic management of long-term COVID-19 symptoms, evaluated using either in vitro cellular or in vivo animal models of oxidative stress.}, } @article {pmid37242799, year = {2023}, author = {Usman Khan, M and Cai, X and Shen, Z and Mekonnen, T and Kourmatzis, A and Cheng, S and Gholizadeh, H}, title = {Challenges in the Development and Application of Organ-on-Chips for Intranasal Drug Delivery Studies.}, journal = {Pharmaceutics}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics15051557}, pmid = {37242799}, issn = {1999-4923}, abstract = {With the growing demand for the development of intranasal (IN) products, such as nasal vaccines, which has been especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of novel technologies to accurately test the safety and effectiveness of IN products in vitro so that they can be delivered promptly to the market is critically acknowledged. There have been attempts to manufacture anatomically relevant 3D replicas of the human nasal cavity for in vitro IN drug tests, and a couple of organ-on-chip (OoC) models, which mimic some key features of the nasal mucosa, have been proposed. However, these models are still in their infancy, and have not completely recapitulated the critical characteristics of the human nasal mucosa, including its biological interactions with other organs, to provide a reliable platform for preclinical IN drug tests. While the promising potential of OoCs for drug testing and development is being extensively investigated in recent research, the applicability of this technology for IN drug tests has barely been explored. This review aims to highlight the importance of using OoC models for in vitro IN drug tests and their potential applications in IN drug development by covering the background information on the wide usage of IN drugs and their common side effects where some classical examples of each area are pointed out. Specifically, this review focuses on the major challenges of developing advanced OoC technology and discusses the need to mimic the physiological and anatomical features of the nasal cavity and nasal mucosa, the performance of relevant drug safety assays, as well as the fabrication and operational aspects, with the ultimate goal to highlight the much-needed consensus, to converge the effort of the research community in this area of work.}, } @article {pmid37242591, year = {2023}, author = {Feng, YX and Hu, H and Wong, YY and Yao, X and He, ML}, title = {Microneedles: An Emerging Vaccine Delivery Tool and a Prospective Solution to the Challenges of SARS-CoV-2 Mass Vaccination.}, journal = {Pharmaceutics}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics15051349}, pmid = {37242591}, issn = {1999-4923}, abstract = {Vaccination is an effective measure to prevent infectious diseases. Protective immunity is induced when the immune system is exposed to a vaccine formulation with appropriate immunogenicity. However, traditional injection vaccination is always accompanied by fear and severe pain. As an emerging vaccine delivery tool, microneedles overcome the problems associated with routine needle vaccination, which can effectively deliver vaccines rich in antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to the epidermis and dermis painlessly, inducing a strong immune response. In addition, microneedles have the advantages of avoiding cold chain storage and have the flexibility of self-operation, which can solve the logistics and delivery obstacles of vaccines, covering the vaccination of the special population more easily and conveniently. Examples include people in rural areas with restricted vaccine storage facilities and medical professionals, elderly and disabled people with limited mobility, infants and young children afraid of pain. Currently, in the late stage of fighting against COVID-19, the main task is to increase the coverage of vaccines, especially for special populations. To address this challenge, microneedle-based vaccines have great potential to increase global vaccination rates and save many lives. This review describes the current progress of microneedles as a vaccine delivery system and its prospects in achieving mass vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.}, } @article {pmid37242447, year = {2023}, author = {Schaefer, D and Cheng, X}, title = {Recent Advances in Covalent Drug Discovery.}, journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ph16050663}, pmid = {37242447}, issn = {1424-8247}, abstract = {In spite of the increasing number of biologics license applications, the development of covalent inhibitors is still a growing field within drug discovery. The successful approval of some covalent protein kinase inhibitors, such as ibrutinib (BTK covalent inhibitor) and dacomitinib (EGFR covalent inhibitor), and the very recent discovery of covalent inhibitors for viral proteases, such as boceprevir, narlaprevir, and nirmatrelvir, represent a new milestone in covalent drug development. Generally, the formation of covalent bonds that target proteins can offer drugs diverse advantages in terms of target selectivity, drug resistance, and administration concentration. The most important factor for covalent inhibitors is the electrophile (warhead), which dictates selectivity, reactivity, and the type of protein binding (i.e., reversible or irreversible) and can be modified/optimized through rational designs. Furthermore, covalent inhibitors are becoming more and more common in proteolysis, targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for degrading proteins, including those that are currently considered to be 'undruggable'. The aim of this review is to highlight the current state of covalent inhibitor development, including a short historical overview and some examples of applications of PROTAC technologies and treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.}, } @article {pmid37242424, year = {2023}, author = {Zuo, J and Meng, T and Wang, Y and Tang, W}, title = {A Review of the Antiviral Activities of Glycyrrhizic Acid, Glycyrrhetinic Acid and Glycyrrhetinic Acid Monoglucuronide.}, journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {16}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ph16050641}, pmid = {37242424}, issn = {1424-8247}, abstract = {Licorice, a natural medicine derived from the roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza species, possesses a wide range of therapeutic applications, including antiviral properties. Glycyrrhizic acid (GL) and glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) are the most important active ingredients in licorice. Glycyrrhetinic acid 3-O-mono-β-d-glucuronide (GAMG) is the active metabolite of GL. GL and its metabolites have a wide range of antiviral activities against viruses, such as, the hepatitis virus, herpes virus and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and so on. Although their antiviral activity has been widely reported, the specific mechanism of action involving multiple links such as the virus itself, cells, and immunity are not clearly established. In this review, we will give an update on the role of GL and its metabolites as antiviral agents, and detail relevant evidence on the potential use and mechanisms of actions. Analyzing antivirals, their signaling, and the impacts of tissue and autoimmune protection may provide promising new therapeutic strategies.}, } @article {pmid37242413, year = {2023}, author = {Loyola-Cruz, MÁ and Gonzalez-Avila, LU and Martínez-Trejo, A and Saldaña-Padilla, A and Hernández-Cortez, C and Bello-López, JM and Castro-Escarpulli, G}, title = {ESKAPE and Beyond: The Burden of Coinfections in the COVID-19 Pandemic.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pathogens12050743}, pmid = {37242413}, issn = {2076-0817}, abstract = {The ESKAPE group constitute a threat to public health, since these microorganisms are associated with severe infections in hospitals and have a direct relationship with high mortality rates. The presence of these bacteria in hospitals had a direct impact on the incidence of healthcare-associated coinfections in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In recent years, these pathogens have shown resistance to multiple antibiotic families. The presence of high-risk clones within this group of bacteria contributes to the spread of resistance mechanisms worldwide. In the pandemic, these pathogens were implicated in coinfections in severely ill COVID-19 patients. The aim of this review is to describe the main microorganisms of the ESKAPE group involved in coinfections in COVID-19 patients, addressing mainly antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, epidemiology, and high-risk clones.}, } @article {pmid37242383, year = {2023}, author = {Devaux, CA and Fantini, J}, title = {Unravelling Antigenic Cross-Reactions toward the World of Coronaviruses: Extent of the Stability of Shared Epitopes and SARS-CoV-2 Anti-Spike Cross-Neutralizing Antibodies.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pathogens12050713}, pmid = {37242383}, issn = {2076-0817}, abstract = {The human immune repertoire retains the molecular memory of a very great diversity of target antigens (epitopes) and can recall this upon a second encounter with epitopes against which it has previously been primed. Although genetically diverse, proteins of coronaviruses exhibit sufficient conservation to lead to antigenic cross-reactions. In this review, our goal is to question whether pre-existing immunity against seasonal human coronaviruses (HCoVs) or exposure to animal CoVs has influenced the susceptibility of human populations to SARS-CoV-2 and/or had an impact upon the physiopathological outcome of COVID-19. With the hindsight that we now have regarding COVID-19, we conclude that although antigenic cross-reactions between different coronaviruses exist, cross-reactive antibody levels (titers) do not necessarily reflect on memory B cell frequencies and are not always directed against epitopes which confer cross-protection against SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, the immunological memory of these infections is short-term and occurs in only a small percentage of the population. Thus, in contrast to what might be observed in terms of cross-protection at the level of a single individual recently exposed to circulating coronaviruses, a pre-existing immunity against HCoVs or other CoVs can only have a very minor impact on SARS-CoV-2 circulation at the level of human populations.}, } @article {pmid37242368, year = {2023}, author = {Zhao, J and Zhao, Y and Zhang, G}, title = {Key Aspects of Coronavirus Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pathogens12050698}, pmid = {37242368}, issn = {2076-0817}, abstract = {Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is an enveloped and positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus. IBV was the first coronavirus to be discovered and predominantly causes respiratory disease in commercial poultry worldwide. This review summarizes several important aspects of IBV, including epidemiology, genetic diversity, antigenic diversity, and multiple system disease caused by IBV as well as vaccination and antiviral strategies. Understanding these areas will provide insight into the mechanism of pathogenicity and immunoprotection of IBV and may improve prevention and control strategies for the disease.}, } @article {pmid37242315, year = {2023}, author = {Scendoni, R and Bury, E and Lima Arrais Ribeiro, I and Cingolani, M and Cameriere, R and De Benedictis, A and De Micco, F}, title = {Leading Pathogens Involved in Co-Infection and Super-Infection with COVID-19: Forensic Medicine Considerations after a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/pathogens12050646}, pmid = {37242315}, issn = {2076-0817}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic raised concerns about the potential for co-infection or over-infection with other respiratory infections, as they can complicate the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the disease. This is also a challenge for forensic pathologists, who may come across cases where the presence of co-infection or over-infection is suspected or confirmed, and it is important that they take this into account when determining the cause of death. The aim of this systematic review is to analyse the prevalence of each specific pathogen co-infecting or over-infecting patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. In total, 575 studies were selected from the Scopus and Pub-Med online databases and 8 studies were included in a meta-analysis. Male gender, advanced age and nursing home care are risk factors associated with the development of co-infection, whereas age, tachypnoea, hypoxaemia and bacterial infection are predictors of mortality. Overall, however, having a SARS-CoV-2 infection does not represent a real risk for the development of co-infections/super-infections.}, } @article {pmid37242281, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, S and Wu, J and Ran, D and Ou, G and Chen, Y and Xu, H and Deng, L and Chen, X}, title = {Study of the Relationship between Mucosal Immunity and Commensal Microbiota: A Bibliometric Analysis.}, journal = {Nutrients}, volume = {15}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/nu15102398}, pmid = {37242281}, issn = {2072-6643}, abstract = {This study presents the first bibliometric evaluation and systematic analysis of publications related to mucosal immunity and commensal microbiota over the last two decades and summarizes the contribution of countries, institutions, and scholars in the study of this field. A total of 1423 articles related to mucosal immunity and commensal microbiota in vivo published in 532 journals by 7774 authors from 1771 institutions in 74 countries/regions were analyzed. The interaction between commensal microbiota in vivo and mucosal immunity is essential in regulating the immune response of the body, maintaining communication between different kinds of commensal microbiota and the host, and so on. Several hot spots in this field have been found to have received extensive attention in recent years, especially the effects of metabolites of key strains on mucosal immunity, the physiopathological phenomena of commensal microbiota in various sites including the intestine, and the relationship between COVID-19, mucosal immunity and microbiota. We hope that the full picture of the last 20 years in this research area provided in this study will serve to deliver necessary cutting-edge information to relevant researchers.}, } @article {pmid37241870, year = {2023}, author = {Ambra, R and Melloni, S and Venneria, E}, title = {Could Selenium Supplementation Prevent COVID-19? A Comprehensive Review of Available Studies.}, journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {28}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/molecules28104130}, pmid = {37241870}, issn = {1420-3049}, abstract = {The purpose of this review is to systematically examine the scientific evidence investigating selenium's relationship with COVID-19, aiming to support, or refute, the growing hypothesis that supplementation could prevent COVID-19 etiopathogenesis. In fact, immediately after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, several speculative reviews suggested that selenium supplementation in the general population could act as a silver bullet to limit or even prevent the disease. Instead, a deep reading of the scientific reports on selenium and COVID-19 that are available to date supports neither the specific role of selenium in COVID-19 severity, nor the role of its supplementation in the prevention disease onset, nor its etiology.}, } @article {pmid37241556, year = {2023}, author = {Tieu, MV and Le, HTN and Cho, S}, title = {Using Nanomaterials for SARS-CoV-2 Sensing via Electrochemical Techniques.}, journal = {Micromachines}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/mi14050933}, pmid = {37241556}, issn = {2072-666X}, abstract = {Advancing low-cost and user-friendly innovations to benefit public health is an important task of scientific and engineering research. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), electrochemical sensors are being developed for low-cost SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, particularly in resource-limited settings. Nanostructures with sizes ranging from 10 nm to a few micrometers could deliver optimum electrochemical behavior (e.g., quick response, compact size, sensitivity and selectivity, and portability), providing an excellent alternative to the existing techniques. Therefore, nanostructures, such as metal, 1D, and 2D materials, have been successfully applied in in vitro and in vivo detection of a wide range of infectious diseases, particularly SARS-CoV-2. Electrochemical detection methods reduce the cost of electrodes, provide analytical ability to detect targets with a wide variety of nanomaterials, and are an essential strategy in biomarker sensing as they can rapidly, sensitively, and selectively detect SARS-CoV-2. The current studies in this area provide fundamental knowledge of electrochemical techniques for future applications.}, } @article {pmid37241191, year = {2023}, author = {Anand, A and Aoyagi, H}, title = {Understudied Hyperphosphatemia (Chronic Kidney Disease) Treatment Targets and New Biological Approaches.}, journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)}, volume = {59}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/medicina59050959}, pmid = {37241191}, issn = {1648-9144}, abstract = {Hyperphosphatemia is a secondary disorder of chronic kidney disease that causes vascular calcifications and bone-mineral disorders. As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, renal damage requires first-priority medical attention for patients with COVID-19; according to a Johns Hopkins Medicine report, SARS-CoV-2 can cause renal damage. Therefore, addressing the research inputs required to manage hyperphosphatemia is currently in great demand. This review highlights research inputs, such as defects in the diagnosis of hyperphosphatemia, flaws in understanding the mechanisms associated with understudied tertiary toxicities, less cited adverse effects of phosphate binders that question their use in the market, socioeconomic challenges of renal treatment and public awareness regarding the management of a phosphate-controlled diet, novel biological approaches (synbiotics) to prevent hyperphosphatemia as safer strategies with potential additional health benefits, and future functional food formulations to enhance the quality of life. We have not only introduced our contributions to emphasise the hidden aspects and research gaps in comprehending hyperphosphatemia but also suggested new research areas to strengthen approaches to prevent hyperphosphatemia in the near future.}, } @article {pmid37241099, year = {2023}, author = {Porosnicu, TM and Sirbu, IO and Oancea, C and Sandesc, D and Bratosin, F and Rosca, O and Jipa, D and Boeriu, E and Bandi, SSS and Pricop, M}, title = {The Impact of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange on Inflammatory Markers and Acute Phase Reactants in Patients with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection.}, journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)}, volume = {59}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/medicina59050867}, pmid = {37241099}, issn = {1648-9144}, abstract = {Background and Objectives: Due to the poor prognosis and the very high mortality rate associated with severe SARS-CoV-2 infections, various regimens have been tried to stop the evolution of the inflammatory cascade, such as immunomodulatory therapy and plasma clearance of the acute phase reactants involved. Therefore, the objective of this review was to analyze the effects of using therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), also known as plasmapheresis, on the inflammatory markers of critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Materials and Methods: A thorough scientific database search was performed, and it included a review of articles published on PubMed, Cochrane Database, Scopus, and Web of Science from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 until September 2022 that focused on the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections using plasma exchange for patients admitted to the ICU. The current study included original articles, reviews, editorials, and short or special communications regarding the topic of interest. Results: A total of 13 articles were selected after satisfying the inclusion criterion of three or more patients enrolled with clinically severe COVID-19 that were eligible for TPE. From the included articles, it was observed that TPE was used as a last-resort salvage therapy that can be regarded as an alternative treatment method when the standard management for these patients fails. TPE significantly decreased the inflammatory status as measured by Interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), lymphocyte count, and D-dimers, as well as improving the clinical status measured with PaO2/FiO2 and duration of hospitalization. The pooled mortality risk reduction after TPE was 20%. Conclusions: There are sufficient studies and evidence to show that TPE reduces inflammatory mediators and improves coagulation function and the clinical/paraclinical status. Nevertheless, although it was shown that TPE decreases the severe inflammatory status without significant complications, the improvement of survival rate remains unclear.}, } @article {pmid37241050, year = {2023}, author = {Shaik, L and Boike, S and Ramar, K and Subramanian, S and Surani, S}, title = {COVID-19 and Sleep Disturbances: A Literature Review of Clinical Evidence.}, journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)}, volume = {59}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/medicina59050818}, pmid = {37241050}, issn = {1648-9144}, abstract = {The need for adequate good quality sleep to optimally function is well known. Over years, various physical, psychological, biological, and social factors have been investigated to understand their impact on sleep. However, understanding the etiological processes that are involved in causing sleep disturbances (SD) as impacted by stressful phases such as pandemics has not been well studied. Many such etiological and management strategies have surfaced during the latest "coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The occurrence of these SD in the infected and uninfected individuals poses a need to investigate factors linked to such occurrence during this phase. Some of such factors include stressful practices such as social distancing, masking, vaccines, and medications availability, changes in routines, and lifestyles. As the status of infection improved, a collective term for all the prolonged effects of COVID-19 after the resolution of the primary infection called the post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) surfaced. Apart from impacting sleep during the infectious phase, the aftereffects of this virus left an even greater impact during the PCS. Various mechanisms have been hypothesized to be linked to such SD during the PCS, but the available data are inconclusive. Further, the varied patterns of incidence of these SDs differed by many factors, such as age, gender, and geographical location, making clinical management even more challenging. This review elucidates the impact of coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (COVID) disease on sleep health during the various phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also investigate different causal relationships, management strategies, and knowledge gaps related to SD during the COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37240967, year = {2023}, author = {Juliá-Burchés, C and Martínez-Varea, A}, title = {An Update on COVID-19 Vaccination and Pregnancy.}, journal = {Journal of personalized medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jpm13050797}, pmid = {37240967}, issn = {2075-4426}, abstract = {Pregnant women are more prone to experience severe COVID-19 disease, including intensive care unit (ICU) admission, use of invasive ventilation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and mortality compared to non-pregnant individuals. Additionally, research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, and stillbirth, as well as adverse neonatal outcomes, including hospitalization and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. This review assessed the available literature from November 2021 to 19 March 2023, concerning the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. COVID-19 vaccination administered during pregnancy is not linked to significant adverse events related to the vaccine or negative obstetric, fetal, or neonatal outcomes. Moreover, the vaccine has the same effectiveness in preventing severe COVID-19 disease in pregnant individuals as in the general population. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccination is the safest and most effective method for pregnant women to protect themselves and their newborns from severe COVID-19 disease, hospitalization, and ICU admission. Thus, vaccination should be recommended for pregnant patients. While the immunogenicity of vaccination in pregnancy appears to be similar to that in the general population, more research is needed to determine the optimal timing of vaccination during pregnancy for the benefit of the neonate.}, } @article {pmid37240943, year = {2023}, author = {Shad, MU}, title = {Recent Developments in Pharmacotherapy of Depression: Bench to Bedside.}, journal = {Journal of personalized medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jpm13050773}, pmid = {37240943}, issn = {2075-4426}, abstract = {For the last 70 years, we did not move beyond the monoamine hypothesis of depression until the approval of the S-enantiomer of ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor blocker and the first non-monoaminergic antidepressant characterized by rapid antidepressant and antisuicidal effects. A similar profile has been reported with another NMDA receptor antagonist, dextromethorphan, which has also been approved to manage depression in combination with bupropion. More recently, the approval of a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors, brexanolone, has added to the list of recent breakthroughs with the relatively rapid onset of antidepressant efficacy. However, multiple factors have compromised the clinical utility of these exciting discoveries in the general population, including high drug acquisition costs, mandatory monitoring requirements, parenteral drug administration, lack of insurance coverage, indirect COVID-19 effects on healthcare systems, and training gaps in psychopharmacology. This narrative review aims to analyze the clinical pharmacology of recently approved antidepressants and discuss potential barriers to the bench-to-bedside transfer of knowledge and clinical application of exciting recent discoveries. Overall, clinically meaningful advances in the treatment of depression have not reached a large proportion of depressed patients, including those with treatment-resistant depression, who might benefit the most from the novel antidepressants.}, } @article {pmid37240926, year = {2023}, author = {De Rose, DU and Pace, PG and Ceccherini-Silberstein, F and Dotta, A and Andreoni, M and Sarmati, L and Iannetta, M}, title = {T Lymphocyte Subset Counts and Interferon-Gamma Production in Adults and Children with COVID-19: A Narrative Review.}, journal = {Journal of personalized medicine}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jpm13050755}, pmid = {37240926}, issn = {2075-4426}, abstract = {Adults and children exhibit a broad range of clinical outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 infection, with minimal to mild symptoms, especially in the pediatric age. However, some children present with a severe hyperinflammatory post-infectious complication named multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), mainly affecting previously healthy subjects. Understanding these differences is still an ongoing challenge, that can lead to new therapeutic strategies and avoid unfavorable outcomes. In this review, we discuss the different roles of T lymphocyte subsets and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in the immune responses of adults and children. Lymphopenia can influence these responses and represent a good predictor for the outcome, as reported by most authors. The increased IFN-γ response exhibited by children could be the starting point for the activation of a broad response that leads to MIS-C, with a significantly higher risk than in adults, although a single IFN signature has not been identified. Multicenter studies with large cohorts in both age groups are still needed to study SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis with new tools and to understand how is possible to better modulate immune responses.}, } @article {pmid37240592, year = {2023}, author = {Jalil, Y and Ferioli, M and Dres, M}, title = {The COVID-19 Driving Force: How It Shaped the Evidence of Non-Invasive Respiratory Support.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jcm12103486}, pmid = {37240592}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS) became crucial in treating patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Despite the fear of viral aerosolization, non-invasive respiratory support has gained attention as a way to alleviate ICU overcrowding and reduce the risks associated with intubation. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented increased demand for research, resulting in numerous publications on observational studies, clinical trials, reviews, and meta-analyses in the past three years. This comprehensive narrative overview describes the physiological rationale, pre-COVID-19 evidence, and results of observational studies and randomized control trials regarding the use of high-flow nasal oxygen, non-invasive mechanical ventilation, and continuous positive airway pressure in adult patients with COVID-19 and associated acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. The review also highlights the significance of guidelines and recommendations provided by international societies and the need for further well-designed research to determine the optimal use of NIRS in treating this population.}, } @article {pmid37240552, year = {2023}, author = {Lee, MH and Shomanov, A and Kudaibergenova, M and Viderman, D}, title = {Deep Learning Methods for Interpretation of Pulmonary CT and X-ray Images in Patients with COVID-19-Related Lung Involvement: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jcm12103446}, pmid = {37240552}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 is a novel virus that has been affecting the global population by spreading rapidly and causing severe complications, which require prompt and elaborate emergency treatment. Automatic tools to diagnose COVID-19 could potentially be an important and useful aid. Radiologists and clinicians could potentially rely on interpretable AI technologies to address the diagnosis and monitoring of COVID-19 patients. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the state-of-the-art deep learning techniques for COVID-19 classification. The previous studies are methodically evaluated, and a summary of the proposed convolutional neural network (CNN)-based classification approaches is presented. The reviewed papers have presented a variety of CNN models and architectures that were developed to provide an accurate and quick automatic tool to diagnose the COVID-19 virus based on presented CT scan or X-ray images. In this systematic review, we focused on the critical components of the deep learning approach, such as network architecture, model complexity, parameter optimization, explainability, and dataset/code availability. The literature search yielded a large number of studies over the past period of the virus spread, and we summarized their past efforts. State-of-the-art CNN architectures, with their strengths and weaknesses, are discussed with respect to diverse technical and clinical evaluation metrics to safely implement current AI studies in medical practice.}, } @article {pmid37240448, year = {2023}, author = {Sonoda, J and Mizoguchi, I and Inoue, S and Watanabe, A and Sekine, A and Yamagishi, M and Miyakawa, S and Yamaguchi, N and Horio, E and Katahira, Y and Hasegawa, H and Hasegawa, T and Yamashita, K and Yoshimoto, T}, title = {A Promising Needle-Free Pyro-Drive Jet Injector for Augmentation of Immunity by Intradermal Injection as a Physical Adjuvant.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24109094}, pmid = {37240448}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Current worldwide mRNA vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 by intramuscular injection using a needled syringe has greatly protected numerous people from COVID-19. An intramuscular injection is generally well tolerated, safer and easier to perform on a large scale, whereas the skin has the benefit of the presence of numerous immune cells, such as professional antigen-presenting dendritic cells. Therefore, intradermal injection is considered superior to intramuscular injection for the induction of protective immunity, but more proficiency is required for the injection. To improve these issues, several different types of more versatile jet injectors have been developed to deliver DNAs, proteins or drugs by high jet velocity through the skin without a needle. Among them, a new needle-free pyro-drive jet injector has a unique characteristic that utilizes gunpower as a mechanical driving force, in particular, bi-phasic pyrotechnics to provoke high jet velocity and consequently the wide dispersion of the injected DNA solution in the skin. A significant amount of evidence has revealed that it is highly effective as a vaccinating tool to induce potent protective cellular and humoral immunity against cancers and infectious diseases. This is presumably explained by the fact that shear stress generated by the high jet velocity facilitates the uptake of DNA in the cells and, consequently, its protein expression. The shear stress also possibly elicits danger signals which, together with the plasmid DNA, subsequently induces the activation of innate immunity including dendritic cell maturation, leading to the establishment of adaptive immunity. This review summarizes the recent advances in needle-free jet injectors to augment the cellular and humoral immunity by intradermal injection and the possible mechanism of action.}, } @article {pmid37240292, year = {2023}, author = {Ragnoli, B and Da Re, B and Galantino, A and Kette, S and Salotti, A and Malerba, M}, title = {Interrelationship between COVID-19 and Coagulopathy: Pathophysiological and Clinical Evidence.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24108945}, pmid = {37240292}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Since the first description of COVID-19 infection, among clinical manifestations of the disease, including fever, dyspnea, cough, and fatigue, it was observed a high incidence of thromboembolic events potentially evolving towards acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and COVID-19-associated-coagulopathy (CAC). The hypercoagulation state is based on an interaction between thrombosis and inflammation. The so-called CAC represents a key aspect in the genesis of organ damage from SARS-CoV-2. The prothrombotic status of COVID-19 can be explained by the increase in coagulation levels of D-dimer, lymphocytes, fibrinogen, interleukin 6 (IL-6), and prothrombin time. Several mechanisms have been hypothesized to explain this hypercoagulable process such as inflammatory cytokine storm, platelet activation, endothelial dysfunction, and stasis for a long time. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the pathogenic mechanisms of coagulopathy that may characterize COVID-19 infection and inform on new areas of research. New vascular therapeutic strategies are also reviewed.}, } @article {pmid37240213, year = {2023}, author = {Gudima, G and Kofiadi, I and Shilovskiy, I and Kudlay, D and Khaitov, M}, title = {Antiviral Therapy of COVID-19.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24108867}, pmid = {37240213}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the scientific community has focused on prophylactic vaccine development. In parallel, the experience of the pharmacotherapy of this disease has increased. Due to the declining protective capacity of vaccines against new strains, as well as increased knowledge about the structure and biology of the pathogen, control of the disease has shifted to the focus of antiviral drug development over the past year. Clinical data on safety and efficacy of antivirals acting at various stages of the virus life cycle has been published. In this review, we summarize mechanisms and clinical efficacy of antiviral therapy of COVID-19 with drugs based on plasma of convalescents, monoclonal antibodies, interferons, fusion inhibitors, nucleoside analogs, and protease inhibitors. The current status of the drugs described is also summarized in relation to the official clinical guidelines for the treatment of COVID-19. In addition, here we describe innovative drugs whose antiviral effect is provided by antisense oligonucleotides targeting the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Analysis of laboratory and clinical data suggests that current antivirals successfully combat broad spectra of emerging strains of SARS-CoV-2 providing reliable defense against COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37240091, year = {2023}, author = {Solimando, AG and Bittrich, M and Shahini, E and Albanese, F and Fritz, G and Krebs, M}, title = {Determinants of COVID-19 Disease Severity-Lessons from Primary and Secondary Immune Disorders including Cancer.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24108746}, pmid = {37240091}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with primary and secondary immune disorders-including patients suffering from cancer-were generally regarded as a high-risk population in terms of COVID-19 disease severity and mortality. By now, scientific evidence indicates that there is substantial heterogeneity regarding the vulnerability towards COVID-19 in patients with immune disorders. In this review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge about the effect of coexistent immune disorders on COVID-19 disease severity and vaccination response. In this context, we also regarded cancer as a secondary immune disorder. While patients with hematological malignancies displayed lower seroconversion rates after vaccination in some studies, a majority of cancer patients' risk factors for severe COVID-19 disease were either inherent (such as metastatic or progressive disease) or comparable to the general population (age, male gender and comorbidities such as kidney or liver disease). A deeper understanding is needed to better define patient subgroups at a higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease courses. At the same time, immune disorders as functional disease models offer further insights into the role of specific immune cells and cytokines when orchestrating the immune response towards SARS-CoV-2 infection. Longitudinal serological studies are urgently needed to determine the extent and the duration of SARS-CoV-2 immunity in the general population, as well as immune-compromised and oncological patients.}, } @article {pmid37240057, year = {2023}, author = {Adimulam, T and Arumugam, T and Gokul, A and Ramsuran, V}, title = {Genetic Variants within SARS-CoV-2 Human Receptor Genes May Contribute to Variable Disease Outcomes in Different Ethnicities.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24108711}, pmid = {37240057}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has evolved into a global pandemic, with an alarming infectivity and mortality rate. Studies have examined genetic effects on SARS-CoV-2 disease susceptibility and severity within Eurasian populations. These studies identified contrasting effects on the severity of disease between African populations. Genetic factors can explain some of the diversity observed within SARS-CoV-2 disease susceptibility and severity. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the SARS-CoV-2 receptor genes have demonstrated detrimental and protective effects across ethnic groups. For example, the TT genotype of rs2285666 (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)) is associated with the severity of SARS-CoV-2 disease, which is found at higher frequency within Asian individuals compared to African and European individuals. In this study, we examined four SARS-CoV-2 receptors, ACE2, Transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), and Basigin (CD147). A total of 42 SNPs located within the four receptors were reviewed: ACE2 (12), TMPRSS2 (10), BSG (CD147) (5), and NRP1 (15). These SNPs may be determining factors for the decreased disease severity observed within African individuals. Furthermore, we highlight the absence of genetic studies within the African population and emphasize the importance of further research. This review provides a comprehensive summary of specific variants within the SARS-CoV-2 receptor genes, which can offer a better understanding of the pathology of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and identify novel potential therapeutic targets.}, } @article {pmid37239926, year = {2023}, author = {Petersen, E and Chudakova, D and Erdyneeva, D and Zorigt, D and Shabalina, E and Gudkov, D and Karalkin, P and Reshetov, I and Mynbaev, OA}, title = {COVID-19-The Shift of Homeostasis into Oncopathology or Chronic Fibrosis in Terms of Female Reproductive System Involvement.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24108579}, pmid = {37239926}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus remains a global public health concern due to the systemic nature of the infection and its long-term consequences, many of which remain to be elucidated. SARS-CoV-2 targets endothelial cells and blood vessels, altering the tissue microenvironment, its secretion, immune-cell subpopulations, the extracellular matrix, and the molecular composition and mechanical properties. The female reproductive system has high regenerative potential, but can accumulate damage, including due to SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 is profibrotic and can change the tissue microenvironment toward an oncogenic niche. This makes COVID-19 and its consequences one of the potential regulators of a homeostasis shift toward oncopathology and fibrosis in the tissues of the female reproductive system. We are looking at SARS-CoV-2-induced changes at all levels in the female reproductive system.}, } @article {pmid37239667, year = {2023}, author = {Buhmeida, A and Assidi, M and Budowle, B}, title = {Current Healthcare Systems in Light of Hyperendemic NCDs and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Time to Change.}, journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/healthcare11101382}, pmid = {37239667}, issn = {2227-9032}, abstract = {Despite the significant achievements of current healthcare systems (CHCSs) in curing or treating several acute conditions, there has been far less success coping with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which have complex roots and nonconventional transmission vectors. Owing to the impact of the invisible hyperendemic NCDs and the COVID-19 pandemic, the limitations of CHCSs have been exposed. In contrast, the advent of omics-based technologies and big data science has raised global hope of curing or treating NCDs and improving overall healthcare outcomes. However, challenges related to their use and effectiveness must be addressed. Additionally, while such advancements intend to improve quality of life, they can also contribute the ever-increasing health disparity among vulnerable populations, such as low/middle-income populations, poorly educated people, gender-based violence victims, and minority and indigenous peoples, to name a few. Among five health determinants, the contribution of medical care to individual health does not exceed 11%. Therefore, it is time to implement a new well-being-oriented system complementary or parallel to CHCSs that incorporates all five health determinants to tackle NCDs and unforeseen diseases of the future, as well as to promote cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable healthy lifestyle choices that can reduce the current level of healthcare inequity.}, } @article {pmid37239614, year = {2023}, author = {Loofbourrow, BM and Scherr, RE}, title = {Food Insecurity in Higher Education: A Contemporary Review of Impacts and Explorations of Solutions.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {20}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph20105884}, pmid = {37239614}, issn = {1660-4601}, abstract = {Food insecurity is a global phenomenon which impacts a variety of social, economic, and life-stage groups. One such group affected by food insecurity is college students, who tend to experience food insecurity at a prevalence which exceeds the average of their local communities. The impacts of food insecurity in this population are multifaceted and have implications for their college experience and beyond. Food insecurity has been observed to have negative effects on college student academic performance, physical health, and mental health. This review explores the impacts of and solutions for food insecurity in this population globally, with particular emphasis on the United States, and specifically California.}, } @article {pmid37239552, year = {2023}, author = {Sorrentino, A and Sulla, F and Santamato, M and di Furia, M and Toto, GA and Monacis, L}, title = {Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Cyberbullying and Cybervictimization Prevalence among Children and Adolescents? A Systematic Review.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {20}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph20105825}, pmid = {37239552}, issn = {1660-4601}, abstract = {In light of the alarming results emerging from some studies and reports on the significant increase in aggressive online behaviors among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic, the current research aimed at providing a more detailed evaluation of the investigations focusing on the cyberbullying prevalence rates published between 2020 and 2023. To this purpose, systematic searches were conducted on four databases (Web of Science, APA PsycInfo, Scopus and Google Scholar), and following PRISMA guidelines, 16 studies were included and qualitatively reviewed. Although studies were characterized by a large variety in cyberbullying operationalization and measurement, and by different methodologies used for data collection, the prevalence rates of the involvement in cyberbullying and/or cybervictimization generally revealed opposite trends: an increase in many Asian countries and Australia and a decrease in Western countries. The findings were also discussed by considering the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, some suggestions were provided to policy makers for promoting prevention and intervention anti-cyberbullying programs in school contexts.}, } @article {pmid37239537, year = {2023}, author = {Giansanti, D}, title = {The Artificial Intelligence in Teledermatology: A Narrative Review on Opportunities, Perspectives, and Bottlenecks.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {20}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph20105810}, pmid = {37239537}, issn = {1660-4601}, abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) is recently seeing significant advances in teledermatology (TD), also thanks to the developments that have taken place during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the last two years, there was an important development of studies that focused on opportunities, perspectives, and problems in this field. The topic is very important because the telemedicine and AI applied to dermatology have the opportunity to improve both the quality of healthcare for citizens and the workflow of healthcare professionals. This study conducted an overview on the opportunities, the perspectives, and the problems related to the integration of TD with AI. The methodology of this review, following a standardized checklist, was based on: (I) a search of PubMed and Scopus and (II) an eligibility assessment, using parameters with five levels of score. The outcome highlighted that applications of this integration have been identified in various skin pathologies and in quality control, both in eHealth and mHealth. Many of these applications are based on Apps used by citizens in mHealth for self-care with new opportunities but also open questions. A generalized enthusiasm has been registered regarding the opportunities and general perspectives on improving the quality of care, optimizing the healthcare processes, minimizing costs, reducing the stress in the healthcare facilities, and in making citizens, now at the center, more satisfied. However, critical issues have emerged related to: (a) the need to improve the process of diffusion of the Apps in the hands of citizens, with better design, validation, standardization, and cybersecurity; (b) the need for better attention paid to medico-legal and ethical issues; and (c) the need for the stabilization of international and national regulations. Targeted agreement initiatives, such as position statements, guidelines, and/or consensus initiatives, are needed to ensure a better result for all, along with the design of both specific plans and shared workflows.}, } @article {pmid37239504, year = {2023}, author = {Borrelli, N and Grimaldi, N and Papaccioli, G and Fusco, F and Palma, M and Sarubbi, B}, title = {Telemedicine in Adult Congenital Heart Disease: Usefulness of Digital Health Technology in the Assistance of Critical Patients.}, journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health}, volume = {20}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph20105775}, pmid = {37239504}, issn = {1660-4601}, abstract = {The number of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) has progressively increased in recent years to surpass that of children. This population growth has produced a new demand for health care. Moreover, the 2019 coronavirus pandemic has caused significant changes and has underlined the need for an overhaul of healthcare delivery. As a result, telemedicine has emerged as a new strategy to support a patient-based model of specialist care. In this review, we would like to highlight the background knowledge and offer an integrated care strategy for the longitudinal assistance of ACHD patients. In particular, the emphasis is on recognizing these patients as a special population with special requirements in order to deliver effective digital healthcare.}, } @article {pmid37239140, year = {2023}, author = {Hromić-Jahjefendić, A and Sezer, A and Aljabali, AAA and Serrano-Aroca, Á and Tambuwala, MM and Uversky, VN and Redwan, EM and Barh, D and Lundstrom, K}, title = {COVID-19 Vaccines and Myocarditis: An Overview of Current Evidence.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11051469}, pmid = {37239140}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {COVID-19 vaccines have been widely used to reduce the incidence and disease severity of COVID-19. Questions have lately been raised about the possibility of an association between COVID-19 vaccines and myocarditis, an inflammatory condition affecting the myocardium, or the middle layer of the heart. Myocarditis can be caused by infections, immune reactions, or toxic exposure. The incidence rate of myocarditis and pericarditis was calculated to be 5.98 instances per million COVID-19 vaccine doses delivered, which is less than half of the incidences after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Myocarditis rates in people aged 12 to 39 years are around 12.6 cases per million doses following the second dose of mRNA vaccination. Adolescent men are more likely than women to develop myocarditis after receiving mRNA vaccines. The objectives of this systematic review and meta-analysis are to find out how often myocarditis occurs after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the risk factors and clinical repercussions of this condition. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between vaccination and myocarditis has been difficult to establish, and further research is required. It is also essential to distinguish between suggested cases of myocarditis and those confirmed by endomyocardial biopsy.}, } @article {pmid37239126, year = {2023}, author = {Maniu, I and Maniu, GC and Antonescu, E and Duica, L and Grigore, N and Totan, M}, title = {SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Responses in Pediatric Patients: A Bibliometric Analysis.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11051455}, pmid = {37239126}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {The characteristics, dynamics and mechanisms/determinants of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection are not fully understood. We performed a bibliometric review of studies that have assessed SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses in the pediatric population using Web of Science online databases, VOSviewer and Bibliometrix tools. The analysis was conducted on 84 publications, from 310 institutions located in 29 countries and published in 57 journals. The results showed the collaboration of scientists and organizations, international research interactions and summarized the findings on (i) the measured titers of antibodies (total antibody and/or individual antibody classes IgG, IgM, IgA) against different antigens (C-terminal region of N (N CT), full-length N protein (N FL), RBD, RBD Alpha, RBD Beta, RBD Gamma, RBD Delta, spike (S), S1, S2) in the case of different clinical forms of the disease; and (ii) the correlations between SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and cytokines, chemokines, neutrophils, C-reactive protein, ferritin, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The presented study offers insights regarding research directions to be explored in the studied field and may provide a starting point for future research.}, } @article {pmid37239105, year = {2023}, author = {Martins, AC and Albericio, F and de la Torre, BG}, title = {FDA Approvals of Biologics in 2022.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11051434}, pmid = {37239105}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {The year 2022 witnessed the control of the COVID-19 pandemic in most countries through social and hygiene measures and also vaccination campaigns. It also saw a decrease in total approvals by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Nevertheless, there was no fall in the Biologics class, which was boosted through the authorization of 15 novel molecules, thus maintaining the figures achieved in previous years. Indeed, the decrease in approvals was only for the category of small molecules. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) continued to be the drug class with the most approvals, and cancer remained the most targeted disease, followed by autoimmune conditions, as in previous years. Interestingly, the FDA gave the green light to a remarkable number of bispecific Biologics (four), the highest number in recent years. Indeed, 2022 was another year without the approval of an antimicrobial Biologic, although important advancements were made in targeting new diseases, which are discussed herein. In this work, we only analyze the Biologics authorized in 2022. Furthermore, we also consider the orphan drugs authorized. We not only apply a quantitative analysis to this year's harvest, but also compare the efficacy of the Biologics with those authorized in previous years. On the basis of their chemical structure, the Biologics addressed fall into the following classes: monoclonal antibodies; antibody-drug conjugates; and proteins/enzymes.}, } @article {pmid37238973, year = {2023}, author = {Grewal, T and Buechler, C}, title = {Adipokines as Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers for the Severity of COVID-19.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11051302}, pmid = {37238973}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Accumulating evidence implicates obesity as a risk factor for increased severity of disease outcomes in patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Obesity is associated with adipose tissue dysfunction, which not only predisposes individuals to metabolic complications, but also substantially contributes to low-grade systemic inflammation, altered immune cell composition, and compromised immune function. This seems to impact the susceptibility and outcome of diseases caused by viruses, as obese people appear more vulnerable to developing infections and they recover later from infectious diseases than normal-weight individuals. Based on these findings, increased efforts to identify suitable diagnostic and prognostic markers in obese Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients to predict disease outcomes have been made. This includes the analysis of cytokines secreted from adipose tissues (adipokines), which have multiple regulatory functions in the body; for instance, modulating insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, lipid metabolism, appetite, and fertility. Most relevant in the context of viral infections, adipokines also influence the immune cell number, with consequences for overall immune cell activity and function. Hence, the analysis of the circulating levels of diverse adipokines in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 have been considered to reveal diagnostic and prognostic COVID-19 markers. This review article summarizes the findings aimed to correlate the circulating levels of adipokines with progression and disease outcomes of COVID-19. Several studies provided insights on chemerin, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, and galectin-3 levels in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, while limited information is yet available on the adipokines apelin and visfatin in COVID-19. Altogether, current evidence points at circulating galectin-3 and resistin levels being of diagnostic and prognostic value in COVID-19 disease.}, } @article {pmid37238946, year = {2023}, author = {Niazi, SK}, title = {RNA Therapeutics: A Healthcare Paradigm Shift.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11051275}, pmid = {37238946}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {COVID-19 brought about the mRNA vaccine and a paradigm shift to a new mode of treating and preventing diseases. Synthetic RNA products are a low-cost solution based on a novel method of using nucleosides to act as an innate medicine factory with unlimited therapeutic possibilities. In addition to the common perception of vaccines preventing infections, the newer applications of RNA therapies include preventing autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Down syndrome; now, we can deliver monoclonal antibodies, hormones, cytokines, and other complex proteins, reducing the manufacturing hurdles associated with these products. Newer PCR technology removes the need for the bacterial expression of DNA, making mRNA a truly synthetic product. AI-driven product design expands the applications of mRNA technology to repurpose therapeutic proteins and test their safety and efficacy quickly. As the industry focuses on mRNA, many novel opportunities will arise, as hundreds of products under development will bring new perspectives based on this significant paradigm shift-finding newer solutions to existing challenges in healthcare.}, } @article {pmid37238844, year = {2023}, author = {Teixeira, CSS and Villa, C and Costa, J and Ferreira, IMPLVO and Mafra, I}, title = {Edible Insects as a Novel Source of Bioactive Peptides: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/foods12102026}, pmid = {37238844}, issn = {2304-8158}, abstract = {The production of food and feed to meet the needs of the growing world's population will soon become a serious challenge. In search for sustainable solutions, entomophagy is being proposed as an alternative source of proteins, with economic and environmental advantages when compared to meat. Edible insects are not only a valuable source of important nutrients, but their gastrointestinal digestion also originates small peptides with important bioactive properties. The present work intends to provide an exhaustive systematic review on research articles reporting bioactive peptides identified from edible insects, as demonstrated by in silico, in vitro, and/or in vivo assays. A total of 36 studies were identified following the PRISMA methodology, gathering 211 potentially bioactive peptides with antioxidant, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antiobesity, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemia, antimicrobial, anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), antithrombotic, and immunomodulatory properties, originated from the hydrolysates of 12 different insect species. From these candidates, the bioactive properties of 62 peptides were characterized in vitro and 3 peptides were validated in vivo. Data establishing the scientific basis of the health benefits associated with the consumption of edible insects can be a valuable contribution to overcoming the cultural issues that hinder the introduction of insects in the Western diet.}, } @article {pmid37238755, year = {2023}, author = {Pérez de la Lastra, JM and Curieses Andrés, CM and Andrés Juan, C and Plou, FJ and Pérez-Lebeña, E}, title = {Hydroxytyrosol and Arginine as Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Immunostimulant Dietary Supplements for COVID-19 and Long COVID.}, journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/foods12101937}, pmid = {37238755}, issn = {2304-8158}, abstract = {Phytochemicals from plant extracts are becoming increasingly popular in the world of food science and technology because they have positive effects on human health. In particular, several bioactive foods and dietary supplements are being investigated as potential treatments for chronic COVID. Hydroxytyrosol (HXT) is a natural antioxidant, found in olive oil, with antioxidant anti-inflammatory properties that has been consumed by humans for centuries without reported adverse effects. Its use was approved by the European Food Safety Authority as a protective agent for the cardiovascular system. Similarly, arginine is a natural amino acid with anti-inflammatory properties that can modulate the activity of immune cells, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. The properties of both substances may be particularly beneficial in the context of COVID-19 and long COVID, which are characterised by inflammation and oxidative stress. While l-arginine promotes the formation of [•]NO, HXT prevents oxidative stress and inflammation in infected cells. This combination could prevent the formation of harmful peroxynitrite, a potent pro-inflammatory substance implicated in pneumonia and COVID-19-associated organ dysfunction, as well as reduce inflammation, improve immune function, protect against free radical damage and prevent blood vessel injury. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of HXT and arginine in the context of COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37238708, year = {2023}, author = {Alzahrani, FA and Khan, MI and Kameli, N and Alsahafi, E and Riza, YM}, title = {Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Their Exciting Potential as the Future of Next-Generation Drug Delivery.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biom13050839}, pmid = {37238708}, issn = {2218-273X}, abstract = {Plant cells release tiny membranous vesicles called extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are rich in lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and pharmacologically active compounds. These plant-derived EVs (PDEVs) are safe and easily extractable and have been shown to have therapeutic effects against inflammation, cancer, bacteria, and aging. They have shown promise in preventing or treating colitis, cancer, alcoholic liver disease, and even COVID-19. PDEVs can also be used as natural carriers for small-molecule drugs and nucleic acids through various administration routes such as oral, transdermal, or injection. The unique advantages of PDEVs make them highly competitive in clinical applications and preventive healthcare products in the future. This review covers the latest methods for isolating and characterizing PDEVs, their applications in disease prevention and treatment, and their potential as a new drug carrier, with special attention to their commercial viability and toxicological profile, as the future of nanomedicine therapeutics. This review champions the formation of a new task force specializing in PDEVs to address a global need for rigor and standardization in PDEV research.}, } @article {pmid37238686, year = {2023}, author = {Maiese, K}, title = {Cellular Metabolism: A Fundamental Component of Degeneration in the Nervous System.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biom13050816}, pmid = {37238686}, issn = {2218-273X}, abstract = {It is estimated that, at minimum, 500 million individuals suffer from cellular metabolic dysfunction, such as diabetes mellitus (DM), throughout the world. Even more concerning is the knowledge that metabolic disease is intimately tied to neurodegenerative disorders, affecting both the central and peripheral nervous systems as well as leading to dementia, the seventh leading cause of death. New and innovative therapeutic strategies that address cellular metabolism, apoptosis, autophagy, and pyroptosis, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), growth factor signaling with erythropoietin (EPO), and risk factors such as the apolipoprotein E (APOE-ε4) gene and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can offer valuable insights for the clinical care and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders impacted by cellular metabolic disease. Critical insight into and modulation of these complex pathways are required since mTOR signaling pathways, such as AMPK activation, can improve memory retention in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and DM, promote healthy aging, facilitate clearance of β-amyloid (Aß) and tau in the brain, and control inflammation, but also may lead to cognitive loss and long-COVID syndrome through mechanisms that can include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, cytokine release, and APOE-ε4 if pathways such as autophagy and other mechanisms of programmed cell death are left unchecked.}, } @article {pmid37238673, year = {2023}, author = {Kaiser, A}, title = {The Role of Spermidine and Its Key Metabolites in Important, Pathogenic Human Viruses and in Parasitic Infections Caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Trypanosoma brucei.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biom13050803}, pmid = {37238673}, issn = {2218-273X}, abstract = {The triamine spermidine is a key metabolite of the polyamine pathway. It plays a crucial role in many infectious diseases caused by viral or parasitic infections. Spermidine and its metabolizing enzymes, i.e., spermidine/spermine-N[1]-acetyltransferase, spermine oxidase, acetyl polyamine oxidase, and deoxyhypusine synthase, fulfill common functions during infection in parasitic protozoa and viruses which are obligate, intracellular parasites. The competition for this important polyamine between the infected host cell and the pathogen determines the severity of infection in disabling human parasites and pathogenic viruses. Here, we review the impact of spermidine and its metabolites in disease development of the most important, pathogenic human viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, HIV, Ebola, and in the human parasites Plasmodium and Trypanosomes. Moreover, state-of-the-art translational approaches to manipulate spermidine metabolism in the host and the pathogen are discussed to accelerate drug development against these threatful, infectious human diseases.}, } @article {pmid37238657, year = {2023}, author = {Swiderski, J and Gadanec, LK and Apostolopoulos, V and Moore, GJ and Kelaidonis, K and Matsoukas, JM and Zulli, A}, title = {Role of Angiotensin II in Cardiovascular Diseases: Introducing Bisartans as a Novel Therapy for Coronavirus 2019.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biom13050787}, pmid = {37238657}, issn = {2218-273X}, abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main contributors to global morbidity and mortality. Major pathogenic phenotypes of CVDs include the development of endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and hyper-inflammatory responses. These phenotypes have been found to overlap with the pathophysiological complications of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). CVDs have been identified as major risk factors for severe and fatal COVID-19 states. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is an important regulatory system in cardiovascular homeostasis. However, its dysregulation is observed in CVDs, where upregulation of angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) signaling via angiotensin II (AngII) leads to the AngII-dependent pathogenic development of CVDs. Additionally, the interaction between the spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 leads to the downregulation of the latter, resulting in the dysregulation of the RAS. This dysregulation favors AngII/AT1R toxic signaling pathways, providing a mechanical link between cardiovascular pathology and COVID-19. Therefore, inhibiting AngII/AT1R signaling through angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) has been indicated as a promising therapeutic approach to the treatment of COVID-19. Herein, we review the role of AngII in CVDs and its upregulation in COVID-19. We also provide a future direction for the potential implication of a novel class of ARBs called bisartans, which are speculated to contain multifunctional targeting towards COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37238382, year = {2023}, author = {Fancello, V and Fancello, G and Genovese, E and Pelucchi, S and Palma, S and Bianchini, C and Ciorba, A}, title = {Auditory Screening in Newborns after Maternal SARS-CoV-2 Infection: An Overview.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/children10050834}, pmid = {37238382}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Several viruses have previously been reported to be responsible for congenital hearing loss; therefore, since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 infection pandemic, various reports have investigated a possible link. The aim of this review is to assess the possible link between maternal COVID-19 infection and congenital hearing loss.

METHODS: This systematic review was performed using PRISMA criteria, searching Medline and Embase databases from March 2020 to February 2023. A total of 924 candidate papers were identified; however, considering the specific selection criteria, only nine were selected for additional analysis.

RESULTS: The overall number of children born from mothers infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy identified through this review was 1687. The confirmed cases of hearing loss were 0.7% (12/1688); a description of its nature (sensorineural vs. conductive) is missing in the selected studies, and the follow-up period is variable across the analyzed papers. Surprisingly, a large proportion of false positives were recorded at the first stage of screening, which resulted normal at the re-test.

CONCLUSIONS: Currently, a correlation between congenital hearing loss and SARS-CoV-2 infection cannot be definitively established. Further studies are desirable to provide additional evidence on this topic.}, } @article {pmid37238357, year = {2023}, author = {Di Spirito, F and D'Ambrosio, F and Di Palo, MP and Giordano, F and Coppola, N and Contaldo, M}, title = {COVID-19 and Related Vaccinations in Children: Pathogenic Aspects of Oral Lesions.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/children10050809}, pmid = {37238357}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {Various clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infections and adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccination have been described in children. The present narrative review aimed to collect and synthesize reported findings on oral lesions detected in SARS-CoV-2-positive subjects following COVID-19 EMA-authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing-approved vaccine administration in the pediatric population to detail their clinical features and highlight possible pathogenic aspects of those lesions based on current evidence. Few and incomplete reports were retrieved from the literature, probably because most lesions belonged to a broad spectrum of systemic diseases and syndromes and were nonspecific or inaccurately described. The most common oral lesions in pediatric SARS-CoV-2-positive patients were erosive-ulcerative lesions and macules/petechiae, primarily erythematous. In the context of COVID-19 vaccination, oral adverse reactions were rare and typically presented as erosive-ulcerative lesions, with EM-like or unspecified patterns. Future studies should investigate oral lesions in SARS-CoV-2-positive subjects and after COVID-19 vaccination in the pediatric population, taking into account viral variants and newly developed vaccines. Deeper insight into oral lesions detectable in pediatric SARS-CoV-2-positive subjects and after COVID-19 vaccination may increase clinicians' ability to improve multidisciplinary pediatric oral and general care.}, } @article {pmid37238233, year = {2023}, author = {Sfayyih, AH and Sabry, AH and Jameel, SM and Sulaiman, N and Raafat, SM and Humaidi, AJ and Kubaiaisi, YMA}, title = {Acoustic-Based Deep Learning Architectures for Lung Disease Diagnosis: A Comprehensive Overview.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13101748}, pmid = {37238233}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {Lung auscultation has long been used as a valuable medical tool to assess respiratory health and has gotten a lot of attention in recent years, notably following the coronavirus epidemic. Lung auscultation is used to assess a patient's respiratory role. Modern technological progress has guided the growth of computer-based respiratory speech investigation, a valuable tool for detecting lung abnormalities and diseases. Several recent studies have reviewed this important area, but none are specific to lung sound-based analysis with deep-learning architectures from one side and the provided information was not sufficient for a good understanding of these techniques. This paper gives a complete review of prior deep-learning-based architecture lung sound analysis. Deep-learning-based respiratory sound analysis articles are found in different databases including the Plos, ACM Digital Libraries, Elsevier, PubMed, MDPI, Springer, and IEEE. More than 160 publications were extracted and submitted for assessment. This paper discusses different trends in pathology/lung sound, the common features for classifying lung sounds, several considered datasets, classification methods, signal processing techniques, and some statistical information based on previous study findings. Finally, the assessment concludes with a discussion of potential future improvements and recommendations.}, } @article {pmid37238232, year = {2023}, author = {Abbasi Habashi, S and Koyuncu, M and Alizadehsani, R}, title = {A Survey of COVID-19 Diagnosis Using Routine Blood Tests with the Aid of Artificial Intelligence Techniques.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13101749}, pmid = {37238232}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing a disease called COVID-19, is a class of acute respiratory syndrome that has considerably affected the global economy and healthcare system. This virus is diagnosed using a traditional technique known as the Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test. However, RT-PCR customarily outputs a lot of false-negative and incorrect results. Current works indicate that COVID-19 can also be diagnosed using imaging resolutions, including CT scans, X-rays, and blood tests. Nevertheless, X-rays and CT scans cannot always be used for patient screening because of high costs, radiation doses, and an insufficient number of devices. Therefore, there is a requirement for a less expensive and faster diagnostic model to recognize the positive and negative cases of COVID-19. Blood tests are easily performed and cost less than RT-PCR and imaging tests. Since biochemical parameters in routine blood tests vary during the COVID-19 infection, they may supply physicians with exact information about the diagnosis of COVID-19. This study reviewed some newly emerging artificial intelligence (AI)-based methods to diagnose COVID-19 using routine blood tests. We gathered information about research resources and inspected 92 articles that were carefully chosen from a variety of publishers, such as IEEE, Springer, Elsevier, and MDPI. Then, these 92 studies are classified into two tables which contain articles that use machine Learning and deep Learning models to diagnose COVID-19 while using routine blood test datasets. In these studies, for diagnosing COVID-19, Random Forest and logistic regression are the most widely used machine learning methods and the most widely used performance metrics are accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC. Finally, we conclude by discussing and analyzing these studies which use machine learning and deep learning models and routine blood test datasets for COVID-19 detection. This survey can be the starting point for a novice-/beginner-level researcher to perform on COVID-19 classification.}, } @article {pmid37238075, year = {2023}, author = {Esposito, MM and Turku, S and Lehrfield, L and Shoman, A}, title = {The Impact of Human Activities on Zoonotic Infection Transmissions.}, journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI}, volume = {13}, number = {10}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ani13101646}, pmid = {37238075}, issn = {2076-2615}, abstract = {As humans expand their territories across more and more regions of the planet, activities such as deforestation, urbanization, tourism, wildlife exploitation, and climate change can have drastic consequences for animal movements and animal-human interactions. These events, especially climate change, can also affect the arthropod vectors that are associated with the animals in these scenarios. As the COVID-19 pandemic and other various significant outbreaks throughout the centuries have demonstrated, when animal patterns and human interactions change, so does the exposure of humans to zoonotic pathogens potentially carried by wildlife. With approximately 60% of emerging human pathogens and around 75% of all emerging infectious diseases being categorized as zoonotic, it is of great importance to examine the impact of human activities on the prevalence and transmission of these infectious agents. A better understanding of the impact of human-related factors on zoonotic disease transmission and prevalence can help drive the preventative measures and containment policies necessary to improve public health.}, } @article {pmid37237970, year = {2023}, author = {Toledano, JM and Puche-Juarez, M and Moreno-Fernandez, J and Ochoa, JJ and Diaz-Castro, J}, title = {Antioxidant and Immune-Related Implications of Minerals in COVID-19: A Possibility for Disease Prevention and Management.}, journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/antiox12051104}, pmid = {37237970}, issn = {2076-3921}, abstract = {Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic appeared, both governments and the scientific community have focused their efforts on the search for prophylactic and therapeutic alternatives in order to reduce its effects. Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been approved and administered, playing a key role in the overcoming of this situation. However, they have not reached the whole world population, and several doses will be needed in the future in order to successfully protect individuals. The disease is still here, so other strategies should be explored with the aim of supporting the immune system before and during the infection. An adequate diet is certainly associated with an optimal inflammatory and oxidative stress status, as poor levels of different nutrients could be related to altered immune responses and, consequently, an augmented susceptibility to infections and severe outcomes derived from them. Minerals exert a wide range of immune-modulatory, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities, which may be useful for fighting this illness. Although they cannot be considered as a definitive therapeutic solution, the available evidence to date, obtained from studies on similar respiratory diseases, might reflect the rationality of deeper investigations of the use of minerals during this pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37237547, year = {2023}, author = {Guerrero-Romero, F and Micke, O and Simental-Mendía, LE and Rodríguez-Morán, M and Vormann, J and Iotti, S and Banjanin, N and Rosanoff, A and Baniasadi, S and Pourdowlat, G and Nechifor, M}, title = {Importance of Magnesium Status in COVID-19.}, journal = {Biology}, volume = {12}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biology12050735}, pmid = {37237547}, issn = {2079-7737}, abstract = {A large amount of published research points to the interesting concept (hypothesis) that magnesium (Mg) status may have relevance for the outcome of COVID-19 and that Mg could be protective during the COVID disease course. As an essential element, Mg plays basic biochemical, cellular, and physiological roles required for cardiovascular, immunological, respiratory, and neurological functions. Both low serum and dietary Mg have been associated with the severity of COVID-19 outcomes, including mortality; both are also associated with COVID-19 risk factors such as older age, obesity, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and asthma. In addition, populations with high rates of COVID-19 mortality and hospitalization tend to consume diets high in modern processed foods, which are generally low in Mg. In this review, we review the research to describe and consider the possible impact of Mg and Mg status on COVID-19 showing that (1) serum Mg between 2.19 and 2.26 mg/dL and dietary Mg intakes > 329 mg/day could be protective during the disease course and (2) inhaled Mg may improve oxygenation of hypoxic COVID-19 patients. In spite of such promise, oral Mg for COVID-19 has thus far been studied only in combination with other nutrients. Mg deficiency is involved in the occurrence and aggravation of neuropsychiatric complications of COVID-19, including memory loss, cognition, loss of taste and smell, ataxia, confusion, dizziness, and headache. Potential of zinc and/or Mg as useful for increasing drug therapy effectiveness or reducing adverse effect of anti-COVID-19 drugs is reviewed. Oral Mg trials of patients with COVID-19 are warranted.}, } @article {pmid37237360, year = {2023}, author = {Xue, VW and Wong, SCC and Li, B and Cho, WCS}, title = {The discovery and development of mRNA vaccines for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, journal = {Expert opinion on drug discovery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-12}, doi = {10.1080/17460441.2023.2218083}, pmid = {37237360}, issn = {1746-045X}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 pandemic is one of the most serious public health events of this century. There have been more than 670 million confirmed cases and more than 6 million deaths worldwide. From the emergence of the Alpha variant to the later rampant Omicron variant, the high transmissibility and pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 accelerate the research and development of effective vaccines. Against this background, mRNA vaccines stepped onto the historical stage and became an important tool for COVID-19 prevention.

AREAS COVERED: This article introduces the characteristics of different mRNA vaccines in the prevention of COVID-19, including antigen selection, therapeutic mRNA design and modification, and different delivery systems of mRNA molecules. It also summarizes and discusses the mechanisms, safety, effectiveness, side effects, and limitations of current COVID-19 mRNA vaccines.

EXPERT OPINION: Therapeutic mRNA molecules have plenty of advantages, including flexible design, rapid production, sufficient immune activation, safety without the risk of genome insertion in the host cells, and no viral vectors or particles involved, making them an important tool to fight diseases in the future. However, the application of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines also faces many challenges, such as storage and transportation, mass production, and nonspecific immunity.}, } @article {pmid37236514, year = {2023}, author = {Al-Haideri, MT and Mannani, R and Kaboli, R and Gharebakhshi, F and Darvishzadehdeldari, S and Tahmasebi, S and Faramarzi, F and Cotrina-Aliaga, JC and Khorasani, S and Alimohammadi, M and Darvishi, M and Akhavan-Sigari, R}, title = {The effects of methotrexate on the immune responses to the COVID-19 vaccines in the patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disease: A systematic review of clinical evidence.}, journal = {Transplant immunology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101858}, pmid = {37236514}, issn = {1878-5492}, abstract = {COVID-19 vaccines exhibit high levels of immunogenicity in the overall population. Data on the effects of immunomodulators on the consequences of COVID-19 in patients with Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) remains scarce. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the immune responses to the COVID-19 vaccines in IMID patients receiving methotrexate (MTX) compared to healthy individuals. A comprehensive literature search was carried out using electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Embase up to August 2022 to identify eligible RCTs evaluating the effect of MTX on immune responses in patients with COVID-19. The PRISMA checklist protocol was applied for the quality assessment of the selected trials. Our findings demonstrated that MTX lowered the responses of T cells and antibodies in IMID patients compared to healthy controls. We also discovered that young age (<60 years) was the main parameter influencing the antibody response after vaccination, while MTX had little effect. Following vaccination, MTX-hold and age were considered the main factors influencing the antibody response. In patients older than 60 years of age, the time point of 10 days of MTX discontinuation was critical to boosting the humoral response to anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG. Because many IMID patients did not have adequate humoral and cellular responses, our findings highlighted the importance of second or booster doses of vaccine and temporary MTX discontinuation. As a result, it implies that individuals with IMIDs should be subjected to more research, particularly humoral and cellular immunity efficiency trials after COVID-19 vaccination, until credible information is achieved.}, } @article {pmid37236411, year = {2023}, author = {Ren, Y and Yan, C and Yang, H}, title = {Erythrocytes: Member of the Immune System that Should Not Be Ignored.}, journal = {Critical reviews in oncology/hematology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {104039}, doi = {10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104039}, pmid = {37236411}, issn = {1879-0461}, abstract = {Erythrocytes are the most abundant type of cells in the blood and have a relatively simple structure when mature; they have a long life-span in the circulatory system. The primary function of erythrocytes is as oxygen carriers; however, they also play an important role in the immune system. Erythrocytes recognize and adhere to antigens and promote phagocytosis. The abnormal morphology and function of erythrocytes are also involved in the pathological processes of some diseases. Owing to the large number and immune properties of erythrocytes, their immune functions should not be ignored. Currently, research on immunity is focused on immune cells other than erythrocytes. However, research on the immune function of erythrocytes and the development of erythrocyte-mediated applications is of great significance. Therefore, we aimed to review the relevant literature and summarize the immune functions of erythrocytes.}, } @article {pmid37236364, year = {2023}, author = {Ekpor, E and Akyirem, S}, title = {Global acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among persons with diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Diabetes research and clinical practice}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {110731}, pmid = {37236364}, issn = {1872-8227}, abstract = {AIM: This review aimed to estimate the level of acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among persons with diabetes.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL to identify relevant studies for this review. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to generate an overall estimate of vaccine acceptance. The I[2] statistic was used to quantify the degree of variation across studies, and subgroup analysis was conducted to identify the sources of heterogeneity. The review was conducted in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA).

RESULTS: This review included 18 studies involving 11,292 diabetes patients. The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among persons with diabetes was 76.1% (95% CI: 66.7% - 83.5%). The pooled prevalence across the continent ranged from 68.9% (95% CI: 47.8% - 84.3%) in Asia to 82.1% (95% CI: 80.2% - 83.8%) in Europe. Barriers to vaccine acceptance included misinformation, lack of information, mistrust, health concerns, and external influences.

CONCLUSION: The barriers to vaccine acceptance identified in this review, could inform the formulation of health policies and public health interventions that are specifically tailored to address the needs of persons with diabetes.}, } @article {pmid37236218, year = {2023}, author = {Gibbons, JB and Harris, SJ and Solomon, KT and Sugarman, O and Hardy, C and Saloner, B}, title = {Increasing overdose deaths among Black Americans: a review of the literature.}, journal = {The lancet. Psychiatry}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/S2215-0366(23)00119-0}, pmid = {37236218}, issn = {2215-0374}, abstract = {In 2020, opioid overdose fatalities among Black Americans surpassed those among White Americans for the first time in US history. This Review analyses the academic literature on disparities in overdose deaths to highlight potential factors that could explain these increases in overdose deaths among Black Americans. Overall, we find that differences in structural and social determinants of health; inequality in the access, use, and continuity of substance use disorder and harm reduction services; variability in fentanyl exposure and risk; and changes in social and economic circumstances since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic are central to explaining this trend. We conclude with a discussion of opportunities for US policy reform and opportunities for future research.}, } @article {pmid37235921, year = {2023}, author = {Heeralall, C and Ibrahim, UH and Lazarus, L and Gathiram, P and Mackraj, I}, title = {The effects of COVID-19 on placental morphology.}, journal = {Placenta}, volume = {138}, number = {}, pages = {88-96}, pmid = {37235921}, issn = {1532-3102}, abstract = {The impact of the COVID-19 infection, caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), during the pandemic has been considerably more severe in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Therefore, a review detailing the morphological alterations and physiological changes associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy and the effect that these changes have on the feto-placental unit is of high priority. This knowledge is crucial for these mothers, their babies and clinicians to ensure a healthy life post-pandemic. Hence, we review the placental morphological changes due to COVID-19 to enhance the general understanding of how pregnant mothers, their placentas and unborn children may have been affected by this pandemic. Based on current literature, we deduced that COVID-19 pregnancies were oxygen deficient, which could further result in other pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia and IUGR. Therefore, we present an up-to-date review of the COVID-19 pathophysiological implications on the placenta, covering the function of the placenta in COVID-19, the effects of this virus on the placenta, its functions and its link to other gestational complications. Furthermore, we highlight the possible effects of COVID-19 therapeutic interventions on pregnant mothers and their unborn children. Based on the literature, we strongly suggest that consistent surveillance for the mothers and infants from COVID-19 pregnancies be prioritised in the future. Though the pandemic is now in the past, its effects are long-term, necessitating the monitoring of clinical manifestations in the near future.}, } @article {pmid37235671, year = {2023}, author = {Koulas, I and Goldin, M and Schulman, S and Spyropoulos, AC}, title = {Antithrombotic therapy in the management of hospitalised patients with COVID-19.}, journal = {British journal of hospital medicine (London, England : 2005)}, volume = {84}, number = {5}, pages = {1-11}, doi = {10.12968/hmed.2022.0519}, pmid = {37235671}, issn = {1750-8460}, abstract = {Hospitalised patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are at a significantly higher risk of having thromboembolic events while in hospital and in the immediate post-hospital discharge period. Based on early data from observational studies, multiple high quality randomised controlled trials have been conducted worldwide to evaluate optimal thromboprophylaxis regimens to reduce thromboembolism and other COVID-19-related adverse outcomes in hospitalised patients. The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis has published evidence-based guideline recommendations using established methodology for the management of antithrombotic therapy of COVID-19 patients, both in-hospital and in the immediate post-hospital discharge period. A good clinical practice statement supplemented these guidelines based on topics for which there was no or limited high-quality evidence. This review summarises the main recommendations of these documents to serve as a quick access tool for hospital doctors to use in their everyday practice when treating COVID-19 patients.}, } @article {pmid37235296, year = {2023}, author = {Rosca, EC and Heneghan, C and Spencer, EA and Plüddemann, A and Maltoni, S and Gandini, S and Onakpoya, IJ and Evans, D and Conly, JM and Jefferson, T}, title = {Coinfection with Strongyloides and SARS-CoV-2: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Tropical medicine and infectious disease}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/tropicalmed8050248}, pmid = {37235296}, issn = {2414-6366}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Treatments for COVID-19, including steroids, might exacerbate Strongyloides disease in patients with coinfection. We aimed to systematically review clinical and laboratory features of SARS-CoV-2 and Strongyloides coinfection, investigate possible interventions, assess outcomes, and identify research gaps requiring further attention.

METHODS: We searched two electronic databases, LitCOVID and WHO, up to August 2022, including SARS-CoV-2 and Strongyloides coinfection studies. We adapted the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Centre (WHO-UMC) system for standardized case causality assessment to evaluate if using corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs in COVID-19 patients determined acute manifestations of strongyloidiasis.

RESULTS: We included 16 studies reporting 25 cases of Strongyloides and SARS-CoV-2 coinfection: 4 with hyperinfection syndrome; 2 with disseminated strongyloidiasis; 3 with cutaneous reactivation of strongyloidiasis; 3 with isolated digestive symptoms; and 2 with solely eosinophilia, without clinical manifestations. Eleven patients were asymptomatic regarding strongyloidiasis. Eosinopenia or normal eosinophil count was reported in 58.3% of patients with Strongyloides reactivation. Steroids were given to 18/21 (85.7%) cases. A total of 4 patients (19.1%) received tocilizumab and/or Anakirna in addition to steroids. Moreover, 2 patients (9.5%) did not receive any COVID-19 treatment. The causal relationship between Strongyloides reactivation and COVID-19 treatments was considered certain (4% of cases), probable (20% of patients), and possible (20% of patients). For 8% of cases, it was considered unlikely that COVID-19 treatment was associated with strongyloidiasis reactivations; the relationship between the Strongyloides infection and administration of COVID-19 treatment was unassessable/unclassifiable in 48% of cases. Of 13 assessable cases, 11 (84.6%) were considered to be causally associated with Strongyloides, ranging from certain to possible.

CONCLUSIONS: Further research is needed to assess the frequency and risk of Strongyloides reactivation in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our limited data using causality assessment supports recommendations that clinicians should screen and treat for Strongyloides infection in patients with coinfection who receive immunosuppressive COVID-19 therapies. In addition, the male gender and older age (over 50 years) may be predisposing factors for Strongyloides reactivation. Standardized guidelines should be developed for reporting future research.}, } @article {pmid37234770, year = {2023}, author = {Kim, JH and Ahn, C and Park, Y and Won, M}, title = {Comparison of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests during the COVID-19 pandemic with those before the pandemic: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Frontiers in public health}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1180511}, pmid = {37234770}, issn = {2296-2565}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, directly and indirectly, affected the emergency medical care system and resulted in worse out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) outcomes and epidemiological features compared with those before the pandemic. This review compares the regional and temporal features of OHCA prognosis and epidemiological characteristics. Various databases were searched to compare the OHCA outcomes and epidemiological characteristics during the COVID-19 pandemic with before the pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, survival and favorable neurological outcome rates were significantly lower than before. Survival to hospitalization, return of spontaneous circulation, endotracheal intubation, and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) decreased significantly, whereas the use of a supraglottic airway device, the incidence of cardiac arrest at home, and response time of emergency medical service (EMS) increased significantly. Bystander CPR, unwitnessed cardiac arrest, EMS transfer time, use of mechanical CPR, and in-hospital target temperature management did not differ significantly. A subgroup analysis of the studies that included only the first wave with those that included the subsequent waves revealed the overall outcomes in which the epidemiological features of OHCA exhibited similar patterns. No significant regional differences between the OHCA survival rates in Asia before and during the pandemic were observed, although other variables varied by region. The COVID-19 pandemic altered the epidemiologic characteristics, survival rates, and neurological prognosis of OHCA patients. Review registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022339435).}, } @article {pmid37234702, year = {2023}, author = {Lutz, M and Lazarus, S and Caldera, F}, title = {COVID-19 vaccination in adults with inflammatory bowel disease.}, journal = {Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {17562848231173130}, pmid = {37234702}, issn = {1756-283X}, abstract = {Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are not at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to the general population, and most are not at increased risk for severe disease. COVID-19 is nonetheless common, and vaccination is critical. Four safe and efficacious vaccines are now available for the prevention of COVID-19, with most data available for mRNA vaccines. Patients with IBD have a robust humoral response to vaccination with rates of seroconversion exceeding 95% following a two-dose mRNA vaccine series and 99% following a three-dose mRNA series, although those on certain therapies including anti-tumor necrosis factor α agents may have lower antibody concentrations and waning of antibodies over time. Additionally, rates of cell-mediated immune response, even in those patients with IBD who did not have evidence of humoral immunity, are high. Vaccines are safe and have not been associated with flares in disease activity. Gastroenterology providers should take an active role in ensuring patients with IBD are appropriately vaccinated against COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37234537, year = {2023}, author = {Aganovic, A}, title = {pH-dependent endocytosis mechanisms for influenza A and SARS-coronavirus.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1190463}, pmid = {37234537}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {The ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the influenza epidemics have revived the interest in understanding how these highly contagious enveloped viruses respond to alterations in the physicochemical properties of their microenvironment. By understanding the mechanisms and conditions by which viruses exploit the pH environment of the host cell during endocytosis, we can gain a better understanding of how they respond to pH-regulated anti-viral therapies but also pH-induced changes in extracellular environments. This review provides a detailed explanation of the pH-dependent viral structural changes preceding and initiating viral disassembly during endocytosis for influenza A (IAV) and SARS coronaviruses. Drawing upon extensive literature from the last few decades and latest research, I analyze and compare the circumstances in which IAV and SARS-coronavirus can undertake endocytotic pathways that are pH-dependent. While there are similarities in the pH-regulated patterns leading to fusion, the mechanisms and pH activation differ. In terms of fusion activity, the measured activation pH values for IAV, across all subtypes and species, vary between approximately 5.0 to 6.0, while SARS-coronavirus necessitates a lower pH of 6.0 or less. The main difference between the pH-dependent endocytic pathways is that the SARS-coronavirus, unlike IAV, require the presence of specific pH-sensitive enzymes (cathepsin L) during endosomal transport. Conversely, the conformational changes in the IAV virus under acidic conditions in endosomes occur due to the specific envelope glycoprotein residues and envelope protein ion channels (viroporins) getting protonated by H+ ions. Despite extensive research over several decades, comprehending the pH-triggered conformational alterations of viruses still poses a significant challenge. The precise mechanisms of protonation mechanisms of certain during endosomal transport for both viruses remain incompletely understood. In absence of evidence, further research is needed.}, } @article {pmid37234527, year = {2023}, author = {Li, J and Wang, J and Wang, M and Zheng, L and Cen, Q and Wang, F and Zhu, L and Pang, R and Zhang, A}, title = {Bifidobacterium: a probiotic for the prevention and treatment of depression.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1174800}, pmid = {37234527}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Depression is a common psychological disease, which has become one of the main factors affecting human health. It has a serious impact on individuals, families, and society. With the prevalence of COVID-19, the incidence of depression has further increased worldwide. It has been confirmed that probiotics play a role in preventing and treating depression. Especially, Bifidobacterium is the most widely used probiotic and has positive effects on the treatment of depression. The mechanisms underlying its antidepressant effects might include anti-inflammation and regulation of tryptophan metabolism, 5-hydroxytryptamine synthesis, and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. In this mini-review, the relationship between Bifidobacterium and depression was summarized. It is hoped that Bifidobacterium-related preparations would play a positive role in the prevention and treatment of depression in the future.}, } @article {pmid37234306, year = {2023}, author = {Sreeshyla, HS and Usha, H and Nitin, P and Sowmya, SV and Augustine, D and Haragannavar, VC}, title = {Digital microscopy: A routine mandate in future? A leaf out of Covid-19 pandemic laboratory experience.}, journal = {Journal of oral and maxillofacial pathology : JOMFP}, volume = {27}, number = {1}, pages = {162-167}, pmid = {37234306}, issn = {0973-029X}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has brought out lot of changes among the way people and organisations function. It has also reduced social gatherings and hence social relations considerably, forcing people to adjust to new ways of work and life. An outstanding difference between the current COVID-19 pandemic and previous epidemics or pandemics is the increased availability and use of technology currently, which has been validated by various reports from across the globe. Thus, even with the ensuing pandemic, lockdown and decreased social gatherings, with the technology support we have devised ways to keep in contact with friends, family and work place, so as to continue our lives. Social distancing guidelines and regulations have put pressure on a great many organisations to find new ways of keeping employees and students connected while working remotely. For more deskbound occupations and roles, this can be relatively straightforward, but it is challenging if not impossible for lab-based quality control, research and study. The answer to this is digital remote microscopy which enables sharing of data online, carrying out collaborative work through multi-viewing in real time and facilitates remote training functions.}, } @article {pmid37234147, year = {2023}, author = {Gupta, V and Acharya, S and Keerti, A}, title = {Common Coagulopathies Associated With COVID-19 Patients.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e38067}, pmid = {37234147}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, which first appeared in the Chinese province of Hubei city of Wuhan, has been spreading internationally since December 2019. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus illness from 2019 to be a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Patients hospitalised with severe coronavirus or comorbid conditions (like cardiovascular disease and obesity) are linked to a worse prognosis. The rise in D-dimer and its relationship to prognosis are the most often documented aberrations in coagulation/fibrinolysis in COVID-19. However, the D-dimer assessment's utility is not limitless. Since the coagulation/fibrinolytic state might occasionally change over a short period of time, routine exams are also advantageous in understanding the relevance of the inquiry. Both thrombotic and hemorrhagic diseases should be taken into consideration, despite the fact that the pathophysiology of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) linked with coronavirus disease 19 differs significantly from that of septic disseminated intravascular coagulation. Coagulation as well as fibrinolysis indicators are used to make the diagnosis of COVID-19 thrombosis, which encompasses both macro- and micro-thrombosis. Compared to bacterial-sepsis-associated coagulopathy/DIC, COVID-19 has a lower prevalence of prolonged prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and decreased antithrombin activity. However, the causes of coagulopathy remain poorly understood. Hypoxia, endothelial injury, dysregulated immunological responses mediated by inflammatory cytokines, and lymphocyte cell death are thought to be implicated. While blood loss tends to be rare, it is uncertain if COVID-19 suffers from thrombosis or whether the current recommendations for regular venous thromboembolic dose are appropriate. It is important to decide on the COVID-19 therapy phases. Antiviral therapy, cytokine storm therapy, and thrombosis therapy are the steps. Future advancements are predicted, such as a therapy that combines heparin and nafamostat.}, } @article {pmid37234076, year = {2023}, author = {Pollack, B and von Saltza, E and McCorkell, L and Santos, L and Hultman, A and Cohen, AK and Soares, L}, title = {Female reproductive health impacts of Long COVID and associated illnesses including ME/CFS, POTS, and connective tissue disorders: a literature review.}, journal = {Frontiers in rehabilitation sciences}, volume = {4}, number = {}, pages = {1122673}, pmid = {37234076}, issn = {2673-6861}, abstract = {Long COVID disproportionately affects premenopausal women, but relatively few studies have examined Long COVID's impact on female reproductive health. We conduct a review of the literature documenting the female reproductive health impacts of Long COVID which may include disruptions to the menstrual cycle, gonadal function, ovarian sufficiency, menopause, and fertility, as well as symptom exacerbation around menstruation. Given limited research, we also review the reproductive health impacts of overlapping and associated illnesses including myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), and endometriosis, as these illnesses may help to elucidate reproductive health conditions in Long COVID. These associated illnesses, whose patients are 70%-80% women, have increased rates of dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, dyspareunia, endometriosis, infertility, vulvodynia, intermenstrual bleeding, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids and bleeding, pelvic congestion syndrome, gynecological surgeries, and adverse pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, maternal mortality, and premature birth. Additionally, in Long COVID and associated illnesses, symptoms can be impacted by the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. We propose priorities for future research and reproductive healthcare in Long COVID based on a review of the literature. These include screening Long COVID patients for comorbid and associated conditions; studying the impacts of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause on symptoms and illness progression; uncovering the role of sex differences and sex hormones in Long COVID and associated illnesses; and addressing historical research and healthcare inequities that have contributed to detrimental knowledge gaps for this patient population.}, } @article {pmid37233973, year = {2023}, author = {Holloway, K and Cahill, G and Tieu, T and Njoroge, W}, title = {Reviewing the Literature on the Impact of Gun Violence on Early Childhood Development.}, journal = {Current psychiatry reports}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37233973}, issn = {1535-1645}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To examine the impacts of gun violence on early childhood development including early childhood mental health, cognitive development, and the assessment and treatment of survivors.

RECENT FINDINGS: The literature reflects that gun violence exposure is often associated with significant mental health outcomes including anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and depression in older youth. Historically, studies have focused on adolescents and their exposures to gun violence through proximity to gun violence within their communities, neighborhoods, and schools. However, the impacts of gun violence on young children are less known. Gun violence has significant impacts on mental health outcomes of youth aged 0-18. Few studies focus specifically on how gun violence impacts early childhood development. In light of the increase in youth gun violence over the past three decades with a significant uptick since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, continued efforts are needed to better understand how gun violence impacts early childhood development.}, } @article {pmid37233671, year = {2023}, author = {Lu, LW and Quek, SY and Lu, SP and Chen, JH}, title = {Potential Benefits of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (N3PUFAs) on Cardiovascular Health Associated with COVID-19: An Update for 2023.}, journal = {Metabolites}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/metabo13050630}, pmid = {37233671}, issn = {2218-1989}, abstract = {The accumulating literature demonstrates that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, N3PUFA) can be incorporated into the phospholipid bilayer of cell membranes in the human body to positively affect the cardiovascular system, including improving epithelial function, decreasing coagulopathy, and attenuating uncontrolled inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. Moreover, it has been proven that the N3PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are precursors of some potent endogenous bioactive lipid mediators that mediate some favorable effects attributed to their parent substances. A dose-response relationship between increased EPA and DHA intake and reduced thrombotic outcomes has been reported. The excellent safety profile of dietary N3PUFAs makes them a prospective adjuvant treatment for people exposed to a higher risk of cardiovascular problems associated with COVID-19. This review presented the potential mechanisms that might contribute to the beneficial effects of N3PUFA and the optimal form and dose applied.}, } @article {pmid37233525, year = {2023}, author = {Kwiatkowska, A and Granicka, LH}, title = {Anti-Viral Surfaces in the Fight against the Spread of Coronaviruses.}, journal = {Membranes}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/membranes13050464}, pmid = {37233525}, issn = {2077-0375}, abstract = {This review is conducted against the background of nanotechnology, which provides us with a chance to effectively combat the spread of coronaviruses, and which primarily concerns polyelectrolytes and their usability for obtaining protective function against viruses and as carriers for anti-viral agents, vaccine adjuvants, and, in particular, direct anti-viral activity. This review covers nanomembranes in the form of nano-coatings or nanoparticles built of natural or synthetic polyelectrolytes--either alone or else as nanocomposites for creating an interface with viruses. There are not a wide variety of polyelectrolytes with direct activity against SARS-CoV-2, but materials that are effective in virucidal evaluations against HIV, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV are taken into account as potentially active against SARS-CoV-2. Developing new approaches to materials as interfaces with viruses will continue to be relevant in the future.}, } @article {pmid37233449, year = {2023}, author = {Kraka, E and Antonio, JJ and Freindorf, M}, title = {Reaction mechanism - explored with the unified reaction valley approach.}, journal = {Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1039/d3cc01576a}, pmid = {37233449}, issn = {1364-548X}, abstract = {One of the ultimate goals of chemistry is to understand and manipulate chemical reactions, which implies the ability to monitor the reaction and its underlying mechanism at an atomic scale. In this article, we introduce the Unified Reaction Valley Approach (URVA) as a tool for elucidating reaction mechanisms, complementing existing computational procedures. URVA combines the concept of the potential energy surface with vibrational spectroscopy and describes a chemical reaction via the reaction path and the surrounding reaction valley traced out by the reacting species on the potential energy surface on their way from the entrance to the exit channel, where the products are located. The key feature of URVA is the focus on the curving of the reaction path. Moving along the reaction path, any electronic structure change of the reacting species is registered by a change in the normal vibrational modes spanning the reaction valley and their coupling with the path, which recovers the curvature of the reaction path. This leads to a unique curvature profile for each chemical reaction, with curvature minima reflecting minimal change and curvature maxima indicating the location of important chemical events such as bond breaking/formation, charge polarization and transfer, rehybridization, etc. A decomposition of the path curvature into internal coordinate components or other coordinates of relevance for the reaction under consideration, provides comprehensive insight into the origin of the chemical changes taking place. After giving an overview of current experimental and computational efforts to gain insight into the mechanism of a chemical reaction and presenting the theoretical background of URVA, we illustrate how URVA works for three diverse processes, (i) [1,3] hydrogen transfer reactions; (ii) α-keto-amino inhibitor for SARS-CoV-2 M[pro]; (iii) Rh-catalyzed cyanation. We hope that this article will inspire our computational colleagues to add URVA to their repertoire and will serve as an incubator for new reaction mechanisms to be studied in collaboration with our experimental experts in the field.}, } @article {pmid37234465, year = {2023}, author = {Noorain, S and Paola Scaparra, M and Kotiadis, K}, title = {Mind the gap: a review of optimisation in mental healthcare service delivery.}, journal = {Health systems (Basingstoke, England)}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {133-166}, doi = {10.1080/20476965.2022.2035260}, pmid = {37234465}, issn = {2047-6965}, abstract = {Well-planned care arrangements with effective distribution of available resources have the potential to address inefficiencies in mental health services. We begin by exploring the complexities associated with mental health and describe how these influence service delivery. We then conduct a scoping literature review of studies employing optimisation techniques that address service delivery issues in mental healthcare. Studies are classified based on criteria such as the type of planning decision addressed, the purpose of the study and care setting. We analyse the modelling methodologies used, objectives, constraints and model solutions. We find that the application of optimisation to mental healthcare is in its early stages compared to the rest of healthcare. Commonalities between mental healthcare service provision and other services are discussed, and the future research agenda is outlined. We find that the existing application of optimisation in specific healthcare settings can be transferred to mental healthcare. Also highlighted are opportunities for addressing specific issues faced by mental healthcare services.}, } @article {pmid37233303, year = {2023}, author = {Yang, N and Zhang, L and Feng, S}, title = {Clinical Features and Treatment Progress of Invasive Mucormycosis in Patients with Hematological Malignancies.}, journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jof9050592}, pmid = {37233303}, issn = {2309-608X}, abstract = {The incidence rate of invasive mucormycosis (IM) in patients with hematological malignancies (HMs) is increasing year by year, ranging from 0.07% to 4.29%, and the mortality rate is mostly higher than 50%. With the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) also became a global health threat. Patients with high risk factors such as active HMs, relapsed/refractory leukemia, prolonged neutropenia may still develop breakthrough mucormycosis (BT-MCR) even under the prophylaxis of Mucorales-active antifungals, and such patients often have higher mortality. Rhizopus spp. is the most common genus associated with IM, followed by Mucor spp. and Lichtheimia spp. Pulmonary mucormycosis (PM) is the most common form of IM in patients with HMs, followed by rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) and disseminated mucormycosis. The prognosis of IM patients with neutrophil recovery, localized IM and receiving early combined medical-surgical therapy is usually better. As for management of the disease, risk factors should be eliminated firstly. Liposome amphotericin B (L-AmB) combined with surgery is the initial treatment scheme of IM. Those who are intolerant to L-AmB can choose intravenous formulations or tablets of isavuconazole or posaconazole. Patients who are refractory to monotherapy can turn to combined antifungals therapy.}, } @article {pmid37233297, year = {2023}, author = {Tejeda-Garibay, S and Hoyer, KK}, title = {Coccidioidomycosis and Host Microbiome Interactions: What We Know and What We Can Infer from Other Respiratory Infections.}, journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jof9050586}, pmid = {37233297}, issn = {2309-608X}, abstract = {Between 70 and 80% of Valley fever patients receive one or more rounds of antibiotic treatment prior to accurate diagnosis with coccidioidomycosis. Antibiotic treatment and infection (bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic) often have negative implications on host microbial dysbiosis, immunological responses, and disease outcome. These perturbations have focused on the impact of gut dysbiosis on pulmonary disease instead of the implications of direct lung dysbiosis. However, recent work highlights a need to establish the direct effects of the lung microbiota on infection outcome. Cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COVID-19, and M. tuberculosis studies suggest that surveying the lung microbiota composition can serve as a predictive factor of disease severity and could inform treatment options. In addition to traditional treatment options, probiotics can reverse perturbation-induced repercussions on disease outcomes. The purpose of this review is to speculate on the effects perturbations of the host microbiome can have on coccidioidomycosis progression. To do this, parallels are drawn to aa compilation of other host microbiome infection studies.}, } @article {pmid37232595, year = {2023}, author = {Grussu, P and Jorizzo, GJ and Alderdice, F and Quatraro, RM}, title = {Preventing, Mitigating, and Treating Women's Perinatal Mental Health Problems during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review of Reviews with a Qualitative Narrative Synthesis.}, journal = {Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/bs13050358}, pmid = {37232595}, issn = {2076-328X}, abstract = {Meeting the mental health needs of perinatal women during the COVID-19 pandemic is a serious concern. This scoping review looks at how to prevent, mitigate or treat the mental health problems faced by women during a pandemic, and lays out suggestions for further research. Interventions for women with pre-existing mental health problems or health problems that develop during the perinatal period are included. The literature in English published in 2020-2021 is explored. Hand searches were conducted in PubMed and PsychINFO using the terms COVID-19, perinatal mental health and review. A total of 13 systematic and scoping reviews and meta-analyses were included. This scoping review shows that every woman should be assessed for mental health issues at every stage of her pregnancy and postpartum, with particular attention to women with a history of mental health problems. In the COVID-19 era, efforts should be focused on reducing the magnitude of stress and a perceived sense of lack of control experienced by perinatal women. Helpful instructions for women with perinatal mental health problems include mindfulness, distress tolerance skills, relaxation exercises, and interpersonal relationship building skills. Further longitudinal multicenter cohort studies could help improve the current knowledge. Promoting perinatal resilience and fostering positive coping skills, mitigating perinatal mental health problems, screening all prenatal and postpartum women for affective disorders, and using telehealth services appear to be indispensable resources. In future, governments and research agencies will need to pay greater attention to the trade-offs of reducing the spread of the virus through lockdowns, physical distancing, and quarantine measures and developing policies to mitigate the mental health impact on perinatal women.}, } @article {pmid37231897, year = {2023}, author = {Li, D and Feng, WD and Chen, TY and Fang, CS and Lin, MQ and Wang, RZ and Zhu, JX and He, XC and Zhang, JJ and Liu, QD and Xu, W and Wang, SL and Li, CQ and Zhou, YX and Ruan, Y and Zhou, M}, title = {Diagnosis and Treatment Strategy of Nasogenic Olfactory Dysfunction.}, journal = {International archives of allergy and immunology}, volume = {184}, number = {6}, pages = {529-538}, doi = {10.1159/000529024}, pmid = {37231897}, issn = {1423-0097}, abstract = {Since the global outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a symptom of the onset of SARS-CoV-2, olfactory dysfunction (OD), has attracted tremendous attention. OD is not only a negative factor for quality of life but also an independent hazard and early biomarker for various diseases, such as Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases. Therefore, early identification and treatment of OD in patients are critical. Many etiological factors are responsible for OD based on current opinions. Sniffin'Sticks are recommended to identify the initial position (central or peripheral) for OD when treating patients clinically. It is worth emphasizing that the olfactory region in nasal cavity is recognized as the primary and critical olfactory receptor. Many nasal diseases, such as those with traumatic, obstructive and inflammatory causes, can lead to OD. The key question is no refined diagnosis or treatment strategy for nasogenic OD currently. This study summarizes the differences in medical history, symptoms, auxiliary examination, treatment and prognosis of different types of nasogenic OD by analyzing the current studies. We propose using olfactory training after 4-6 weeks of initial treatment for nasogenic OD patients with no significant improvement in olfaction. We hope that our research can provide valuable clinical guidance by systematically summarizing the clinical characteristics of nasogenic OD.}, } @article {pmid37231476, year = {2023}, author = {Greistorfer, T and Jud, P}, title = {Clinical characteristics of COVID-19 associated vasculopathic diseases.}, journal = {Thrombosis journal}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {61}, pmid = {37231476}, issn = {1477-9560}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has shown to be an infectious disease affecting not only of the respiratory system, but also cardiovascular system leading to different COVID-19-associated vasculopathies. Venous and arterial thromboembolic events have been frequently described among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and inflammatory vasculopathic changes have also been observed. Several of the reported COVID-19 associated vasculopathies exhibit differences on epidemiology, clinical characteristics and outcome compared to non-COVID-19 types. This review focuses on the epidemiology, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic characteristics as well as outcome data of COVID-19 associated thromboembolic events and inflammatory vasculopathies, elaborating similarities and differences with non-COVID-19 cohorts.}, } @article {pmid37231280, year = {2023}, author = {Zhang, J and Zou, H}, title = {Insights into artificial intelligence in myopia management: from a data perspective.}, journal = {Graefe's archive for clinical and experimental ophthalmology = Albrecht von Graefes Archiv fur klinische und experimentelle Ophthalmologie}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37231280}, issn = {1435-702X}, abstract = {Given the high incidence and prevalence of myopia, the current healthcare system is struggling to handle the task of myopia management, which is worsened by home quarantine during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in ophthalmology is thriving, yet not enough in myopia. AI can serve as a solution for the myopia pandemic, with application potential in early identification, risk stratification, progression prediction, and timely intervention. The datasets used for developing AI models are the foundation and determine the upper limit of performance. Data generated from clinical practice in managing myopia can be categorized into clinical data and imaging data, and different AI methods can be used for analysis. In this review, we comprehensively review the current application status of AI in myopia with an emphasis on data modalities used for developing AI models. We propose that establishing large public datasets with high quality, enhancing the model's capability of handling multimodal input, and exploring novel data modalities could be of great significance for the further application of AI for myopia.}, } @article {pmid37230968, year = {2023}, author = {Lv, R and Liu, X and Zhang, Y and Dong, N and Wang, X and He, Y and Yue, H and Yin, Q}, title = {Pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.}, journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {218}, pmid = {37230968}, issn = {2059-3635}, abstract = {Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common breathing disorder in sleep in which the airways narrow or collapse during sleep, causing obstructive sleep apnea. The prevalence of OSAS continues to rise worldwide, particularly in middle-aged and elderly individuals. The mechanism of upper airway collapse is incompletely understood but is associated with several factors, including obesity, craniofacial changes, altered muscle function in the upper airway, pharyngeal neuropathy, and fluid shifts to the neck. The main characteristics of OSAS are recurrent pauses in respiration, which lead to intermittent hypoxia (IH) and hypercapnia, accompanied by blood oxygen desaturation and arousal during sleep, which sharply increases the risk of several diseases. This paper first briefly describes the epidemiology, incidence, and pathophysiological mechanisms of OSAS. Next, the alterations in relevant signaling pathways induced by IH are systematically reviewed and discussed. For example, IH can induce gut microbiota (GM) dysbiosis, impair the intestinal barrier, and alter intestinal metabolites. These mechanisms ultimately lead to secondary oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and sympathetic activation. We then summarize the effects of IH on disease pathogenesis, including cardiocerebrovascular disorders, neurological disorders, metabolic diseases, cancer, reproductive disorders, and COVID-19. Finally, different therapeutic strategies for OSAS caused by different causes are proposed. Multidisciplinary approaches and shared decision-making are necessary for the successful treatment of OSAS in the future, but more randomized controlled trials are needed for further evaluation to define what treatments are best for specific OSAS patients.}, } @article {pmid37230808, year = {2023}, author = {Vagg, T and Shanthikumar, S and Ibrahim, H and O'Regan, P and Chapman, WW and Kirwan, L and Ranganathan, SC and Plant, BJ}, title = {Telehealth in Cystic Fibrosis. A systematic review incorporating a novel scoring system and expert weighting to identify a 'top 10 manuscripts' to inform future best practices implementation.}, journal = {Journal of cystic fibrosis : official journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37230808}, issn = {1873-5010}, abstract = {The ongoing development and integration of telehealth within CF care has been accelerated in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, with many centres publishing their experiences. Now, as the restrictions of the pandemic ease, the use of telehealth appears to be waning, with many centres returning to routine traditional face-to-face services. For most, telehealth is not integrated into clinical care models, and there is a lack of guidance on how to integrate such a service into clinical care. The aims of this systematic review were to first identify manuscripts which may inform best CF telehealth practices, and second, to analyse these finding to determine how the CF community may use telehealth to improve care for patients, families, and Multidisciplinary Teams into the future. To achieve this, the PRISMA review methodology was utilised, in combination with a modified novel scoring system that consolidates expert weighting from key CF stakeholders, allowing for the manuscripts to be placed in a hierarchy in accordance with their scientific robustness. From the 39 found manuscripts, the top ten are presented and further analysed. The top ten manuscripts are exemplars of where telehealth is used effectively within CF care at this time, and demonstrate specific use cases of its potential best practices. However, there is a lack of guidance for implementation and clinical decision making, which remains an area for improvement. Thus, it is suggested that further work explores and provides guidance for standardised implementation into CF clinical practice.}, } @article {pmid37230728, year = {2023}, author = {Seok, Y and Mauk, MG and Li, R and Qian, C}, title = {Trends of respiratory virus detection in point-of-care testing: A review.}, journal = {Analytica chimica acta}, volume = {1264}, number = {}, pages = {341283}, doi = {10.1016/j.aca.2023.341283}, pmid = {37230728}, issn = {1873-4324}, abstract = {In resource-limited conditions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on-site detection of diseases using the Point-of-care testing (POCT) technique is becoming a key factor in overcoming crises and saving lives. For practical POCT in the field, affordable, sensitive, and rapid medical testing should be performed on simple and portable platforms, instead of laboratory facilities. In this review, we introduce recent approaches to the detection of respiratory virus targets, analysis trends, and prospects. Respiratory viruses occur everywhere and are one of the most common and widely spreading infectious diseases in the human global society. Seasonal influenza, avian influenza, coronavirus, and COVID-19 are examples of such diseases. On-site detection and POCT for respiratory viruses are state-of-the-art technologies in this field and are commercially valuable global healthcare topics. Cutting-edge POCT techniques have focused on the detection of respiratory viruses for early diagnosis, prevention, and monitoring to protect against the spread of COVID-19. In particular, we highlight the application of sensing techniques to each platform to reveal the challenges of the development stage. Recent POCT approaches have been summarized in terms of principle, sensitivity, analysis time, and convenience for field applications. Based on the analysis of current states, we also suggest the remaining challenges and prospects for the use of the POCT technique for respiratory virus detection to improve our protection ability and prevent the next pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37230555, year = {2023}, author = {Milner, KA}, title = {Evolution of Visiting the Intensive Care Unit.}, journal = {Critical care clinics}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {541-558}, doi = {10.1016/j.ccc.2023.01.005}, pmid = {37230555}, issn = {1557-8232}, abstract = {This article gives a historical perspective of visitation in the intensive care unit (ICU) since the establishment of critical care units. Initially, visitors were not allowed because it was thought to be harmful to the patient. Despite the evidence, ICUs with open visitation have consistently been in the minority and the COVID-19 pandemic halted progress in this area. Virtual visitation was introduced during the pandemic to maintain family presence, but limited evidence suggests that this is not equivalent to in-person visitation. Going forward ICUs and health systems must consider family presence policies that allow for visitation under any circumstance.}, } @article {pmid37230549, year = {2023}, author = {Brochard, LJ}, title = {Mechanical Ventilation: Negative to Positive and Back Again.}, journal = {Critical care clinics}, volume = {39}, number = {3}, pages = {437-449}, doi = {10.1016/j.ccc.2022.12.002}, pmid = {37230549}, issn = {1557-8232}, abstract = {Critical care and mechanical ventilation have a relatively brief history in medicine. Premises existed through the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries but modern mechanical ventilation started in the twentieth century. Noninvasive ventilation techniques had started both in the intensive care unit and for home ventilation at the end of the 1980s and the 1990s. The need for mechanical ventilation is increasingly influenced worldwide by the spread of respiratory viruses, and the last coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has seen a massive successful use of noninvasive ventilation.}, } @article {pmid37230399, year = {2023}, author = {Kan, AKC and Li, PH}, title = {Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines: potential concerns of antibody-dependent enhancement and original antigenic sin.}, journal = {Immunology letters}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.imlet.2023.05.007}, pmid = {37230399}, issn = {1879-0542}, abstract = {Inactivated vaccine is one of the platforms employed in COVID-19 vaccines. Inactivated vaccines have been associated with concerns of antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) and original antigenic sin (OAS), which are related to non-neutralising or poorly neutralising antibodies against the pathogen. Since inactivated COVID-19 vaccines use whole-SARS-CoV-2 virus as the immunogen, they are expected to generate antibodies against non-spike structural proteins, which are highly conservative across variants of SARS-CoV-2. These antibodies against non-spike structural proteins have found to be largely non-neutralising or poorly neutralising in nature. Hence, inactivated COVID-19 vaccines could possibly be associated with ADE and OAS, especially as novel variants emerge. This article explores the potential concern of ADE and OAS in the context of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine, and outlines the future research directions.}, } @article {pmid37230397, year = {2023}, author = {Kuniduzi, Y and Chen, B and Zeng, J and Sun, X and Chen, T and Qian, X and Wang, J and Liang, F and Abuduxukuer, R and Yusufu, M and Xu, S and Zhang, X}, title = {Efficacy and safety of a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in kidney transplant recipients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Transplant immunology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101864}, doi = {10.1016/j.trim.2023.101864}, pmid = {37230397}, issn = {1878-5492}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) who become infected with SARS-CoV-2 are at greater risk of serious illness and death than the general population. To date, the efficacy and safety of the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in KTRs have not been systematically discussed.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included articles from PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Med Online published before May 15, 2022. Studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in kidney transplant recipients were selected.

RESULTS: Nine studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a total of 727 KTRs. The overall pooled seropositivity rate after the fourth COVID-19 vaccine was 60% (95% CI, 49%-71%, I[2] = 87.83%, p > 0.01). The pooled proportion of KTRs seronegative after the third dose that transitioned to seropositivity after the fourth dose was 30% (95% CI, 15%-48%, I[2] = 94.98%, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS: The fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine was well tolerated in KTRs with no serious adverse effects. Some KTRs showed a reduced response even after receiving the fourth vaccine dose. Overall, the fourth vaccine dose effectively improved seropositivity in KTRs, as recommended by the World Health Organization for the general population.}, } @article {pmid37230393, year = {2023}, author = {Chandrasekar, NR and Cajigas, H}, title = {Covid-19, HLA, and race common link: A novel hypothesis.}, journal = {Transplant immunology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101859}, doi = {10.1016/j.trim.2023.101859}, pmid = {37230393}, issn = {1878-5492}, abstract = {The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) accountable for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) prompted a catastrophic pandemic striking millions of people with diverse presentations, from asymptomatic to severe, potentially lethal disease requiring unprecedented levels of specialized care and extraordinary resources that have overwhelmed healthcare systems around the world. In this detailed communication we postulating a novel hypothesis, based on the viral replication and transplantation immunology. This based on reviewing published journal articles and text book chapters to account for variable mortality and degrees of morbidity among various race and origins. Homo sapiens evolution over millions of years, for that the matter the origin of any biologic form of life form initiated by microorganisms. The entire body of a human has several millions of bacterial and viral genomes incorporated over millions of years. Perhaps the answer or a clue lies how compatible a foreign genomic sequence fits into three billion copies of human genome.}, } @article {pmid37230033, year = {2023}, author = {Raghuvanshi, V and Yadav, P and Ali, S}, title = {Interferon production by Viral, Bacterial & Yeast system: A comparative overview in 2023.}, journal = {International immunopharmacology}, volume = {120}, number = {}, pages = {110340}, doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110340}, pmid = {37230033}, issn = {1878-1705}, abstract = {Interferons play a critical role in the innate immune response against several infections and play a key role in the control of a variety of viral and bacterial infectious diseases such as hepatitis, covid-19, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. Therefore, natural or synthetic IFN production is important and had three common methods, including bacterial fermentation, animal cell culture, and recombinant nucleic acid technology. However, the safety, purity, and accuracy of the most preferred INF production systems have not been extensively studied. This study provides a comprehensive comparative overview of interferon production in various systems that include viral, bacterial, yeast, and mammalian. We aim to determine the most efficient, safe, and accurate interferon production system available in the year 2023. The mechanisms of artificial interferon production were reviewed in various organisms, and the types and subtypes of interferons produced by each system were compared. Our analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the similarities and differences in interferon production and highlights the potential for developing new therapeutic strategies to combat infectious diseases. This review article offers the diverse strategies used by different organisms in producing and utilizing interferons, providing a framework for future research into the evolution and function of this critical immune response pathway.}, } @article {pmid37229914, year = {2023}, author = {Chenchula, S and Amerneni, KC and Ghanta, MK and Padmavathi, R and Chandra, MB and Adusumilli, MB and Chavan, M and Mudda, S and Gupta, R and Lakhawat, B}, title = {Clinical virology and effect of Covid-19 vaccination and monoclonal antibodies against highly infectious SARS- CoV-2 omicron sub variant BF.7 (BA.5.2.1.7): A systematic review.}, journal = {Virology}, volume = {584}, number = {}, pages = {38-43}, doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2023.04.007}, pmid = {37229914}, issn = {1096-0341}, abstract = {Over time, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has acquired several genetic mutations, particularly on the receptor-binding domain (RBD) spike glycoprotein. The Omicron variant is highly infectious, with enhanced immune escape activity, and has given rise to various sub-lineages due to mutations. However, there has been a sudden increase in COVID-19 reports of the Omicron subvariant BF.7 (BA.2.75.2), which has the highest number of reported cases, accounting for 76.2% of all cases worldwide. Hence, the present systematic review aimed to understand the viral mutations and factors associated with the increase in the reports of COVID-19 cases and to assess the effectiveness of vaccines and mAbs against the novel Omicron variant BF.7. The R346T mutation on the spike glycoprotein RBD might be associated with increased infection rates, severity, and resistance to vaccines and mAbs. Booster doses of COVID-19 vaccination with bivalent mRNA booster vaccine shots are effective in curtailing infections and decreasing the severity and mortality by enhancing the neutralizing antibodies (Abs) against the emerging Omicron subvariants of SARS-CoV-2, including BF.7 and future VOCs.}, } @article {pmid37229298, year = {2023}, author = {Garg, A and Posa, MK and Kumar, A}, title = {Diabetes and deaths of COVID-19 patients: Systematic review of meta-analyses.}, journal = {Health sciences review (Oxford, England)}, volume = {7}, number = {}, pages = {100099}, pmid = {37229298}, issn = {2772-6320}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is affecting all kinds of patients including diabetics. This article provides an overview of conducted meta-analyses regarding the effect of diabetes on the deaths of COVID-19 patients.

METHODOLOGY: The study was conducted as per preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement.

DATA SOURCES: The relevant meta-analyses were searched on PubMed till April 2021 and data was extracted from 24 relevant meta-analyses. The overall estimate was calculated in terms of odds ratio or relative risk with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS: A total of 09 meta-analyses showed the association of diabetes with the death of COVID-19 patients and 15 meta-analyses have reported the association of diabetes with other comorbidities in the death of COVID-19 patients. The pooled odds ratio or relative risk has shown a significant association of diabetes alone or its associated comorbidities with deaths of COVID-19 patients.

CONCLUSION: Patients with diabetes and its associated comorbidities need more monitoring if get SARS-Cov-2 infection to reduce deaths.}, } @article {pmid37229148, year = {2023}, author = {Yadav, SK and Yadav, RD and Tabassum, H and Arya, M}, title = {Recent Developments in Nanotechnology-Based Biosensors for the Diagnosis of Coronavirus.}, journal = {Plasmonics (Norwell, Mass.)}, volume = {18}, number = {3}, pages = {955-969}, pmid = {37229148}, issn = {1557-1955}, abstract = {The major challenge in today's world is that medical research is facing the existence of a vast number of viruses and their mutations, which from time to time cause outbreaks. Also, the continuous and spontaneous mutations occurring in the viruses and the emergence of resistant virus strains have become serious medical hazards. So, in view of the growing number of diseases, like the recent COVID-19 pandemic that has caused the deaths of millions of people, there is a need to improve rapid and sensitive diagnostic strategies to initiate timely treatment for such conditions. In the cases like COVID-19, where a real cure due to erratic and ambiguous signs is not available, early intervention can be life-saving. In the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, nanotechnology has evolved exponentially and can overcome multiple obstacles in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases. Nanotechnology has developed exponentially in the biomedical and pharmaceutical fields and can overcome numerous challenges in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases. At the nano stage, the molecular properties of materials such as gold, silver, carbon, silica, and polymers get altered and can be used for the creation of reliable and accurate diagnostic techniques. This review provides insight into numerous diagnostic approaches focused on nanoparticles that could have been established for quick and early detection of such diseases.}, } @article {pmid37017881, year = {2023}, author = {Ahsan, R and Mishra, A and Badar, B and Owais, M and Mishra, V}, title = {Therapeutic Application, Phytoactives and Pharmacology of Tinospora cordifolia: An Evocative Review.}, journal = {Chinese journal of integrative medicine}, volume = {29}, number = {6}, pages = {549-555}, pmid = {37017881}, issn = {1993-0402}, mesh = {Humans ; *Tinospora/chemistry ; *COVID-19 ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology/therapeutic use/chemistry ; Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; }, abstract = {Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi or Gurjo), a herbaceous vine or climbing deciduous shrub, is consider as an important medicine in the Ayurvedic system of medication, which is available in India, China, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Srilanka. Menispermaceae is the family of this compound. T. cordifolia have a variety of properties to treat various ailments such as fevers, jaundice, diabetes, dysentery, urinary infections, and skin diseases. This compound has been subjected to many chemicals, pharmacological, pre-clinical, or clinical investigations and some new therapeutic potential effects have been indicated. This review aims to summarize the critical information concerning in areas of chemical constituents, chemical structure, and pharmacokinetic activities such as anti-diabetic, anticancer, immune-modulatory, antivirus (especially in silico study about COVID-19), antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective and its effect on cardiovascular and neurological disorders as well as rheumatoid arthritis. This traditional herb needs more experimental study on the clinical, pre-clinical study, and clinical efficacy of these compounds for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and needs large-scale clinical studies to prove the clinical efficacy of this compound, especially in stress-related diseases and other neuronal disorders.}, } @article {pmid34738884, year = {2023}, author = {Beneviat, AR and Waldhoff, SC and Vick, DJ and Kerr, BJ}, title = {A Review of 2020 State and DC Face Mask Guidelines for U.S. Healthcare Workers during the Covid-19 Pandemic.}, journal = {Hospital topics}, volume = {101}, number = {2}, pages = {146-155}, doi = {10.1080/00185868.2021.1997130}, pmid = {34738884}, issn = {1939-9278}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Masks ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; District of Columbia ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Personnel ; }, abstract = {This study reviewed state and District of Columbia (DC) health department guidelines for the use of face masks by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic via an October 2020 internet search and compared these guidelines to those from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Guidelines varied between states and DC with respect to N95 face mask and surgical mask use, as well as to extended use and re-use of N95 masks. Uniform guidance based on emerging evidence should be required for creating policy and procedures for healthcare workers during this and future pandemics.}, } @article {pmid37228622, year = {2023}, author = {Liu, Y and Zheng, P}, title = {CD24-Siglec interactions in inflammatory diseases.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1174789}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1174789}, pmid = {37228622}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {CD24 is a small glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored glycoprotein with broad expression in multiple cell types. Due to differential glycosylation, cell surface CD24 have been shown to interact with various receptors to mediate multiple physiological functions. Nearly 15 years ago, CD24 was shown to interact with Siglec G/10 to selectively inhibit inflammatory response to tissue injuries. Subsequent studies demonstrate that sialylated CD24 (SialoCD24) is a major endogenous ligand for CD33-family of Siglecs to protect the host against inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders and most notably respiratory distress in COVID-19. The discoveries on CD24-Siglec interactions propelled active translational research to treat graft-vs-host diseases, cancer, COVID-19 and metabolic disorders. This mini-review provides a succinct summary on biological significance of CD24-Siglec pathway in regulation of inflammatory diseases with emphasis on clinical translation.}, } @article {pmid37228604, year = {2023}, author = {Shen, J and Fan, J and Zhao, Y and Jiang, D and Niu, Z and Zhang, Z and Cao, G}, title = {Innate and adaptive immunity to SARS-CoV-2 and predisposing factors.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1159326}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1159326}, pmid = {37228604}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), has affected all countries worldwide. Although some symptoms are relatively mild, others are still associated with severe and even fatal clinical outcomes. Innate and adaptive immunity are important for the control of SARS-CoV-2 infections, whereas a comprehensive characterization of the innate and adaptive immune response to COVID-19 is still lacking and the mechanisms underlying immune pathogenesis and host predisposing factors are still a matter of scientific debate. Here, the specific functions and kinetics of innate and adaptive immunity involved in SARS-CoV-2 recognition and resultant pathogenesis are discussed, as well as their immune memory for vaccinations, viral-mediated immune evasion, and the current and future immunotherapeutic agents. We also highlight host factors that contribute to infection, which may deepen the understanding of viral pathogenesis and help identify targeted therapies that attenuate severe disease and infection.}, } @article {pmid37228364, year = {2023}, author = {Burshtein, J and Buethe, MG and Ghias, MH and Stein, AB and Glick, S and Marmon, S}, title = {Efficacy, perception, and utilization of pediatric teledermatology: A systematic review.}, journal = {JAAD international}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {3-11}, doi = {10.1016/j.jdin.2023.03.005}, pmid = {37228364}, issn = {2666-3287}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of teledermatology abruptly expanded with the arrival of COVID-19. Here, we review recent studies regarding the efficacy, perception, and utilization of telemedicine in the pediatric population.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the current state of pediatric teledermatology.

METHODS: A literature search was performed using the terms "pediatric," "teledermatology," "dermatology," "telemedicine" and "telehealth" in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar. 44 articles published between 2008 and 2022 were included.

RESULTS: Diagnostic concordance between pediatric teledermatologist and in-person dermatologist ranged from 70.1% to 89%. Conditions treated with pediatric teledermatology were similar to those treated in-person. The rate of in-person follow-up after an initial telemedicine appointment pre and postpandemic was 12% to 51.9% and 13.5% to 28.1%, respectively. Patient satisfaction with teledermatology was between 70% to 98% and provider satisfaction was approximately 95%. The integration of teledermatology can reduce missed appointments and wait times among pediatric patients. However, considerable technological challenges exist, particularly in underserved communities. Globally, teledermatology may expand access to care though limited literature exists regarding its use in pediatric populations.

CONCLUSION: Telemedicine is effective for the diagnosis and treatment of many dermatological conditions in children, with high patient and provider satisfaction. Implementation of teledermatology can potentially increase access to care both locally and globally, but obstacles to engagement remain.}, } @article {pmid37228293, year = {2023}, author = {Valentin, S and Lopez Padilla, D and Nolasco, S and Ranilović, D and Guillamat-Prats, R and Marín, T and Ho, S and Tang, S and Papadopoulou, E and Malone, J and Leiva Agüero, S and Cantero, C and Patout, M and Fisser, C}, title = {ERS International Congress 2022: highlights from the Respiratory Intensive Care Assembly.}, journal = {ERJ open research}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1183/23120541.00532-2022}, pmid = {37228293}, issn = {2312-0541}, abstract = {Early Career Members of Assembly 2 (Respiratory Intensive Care) attended the 2022 European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress in Barcelona, Spain. The conference covered acute and chronic respiratory failure. Sessions of interest to our Assembly members and to those interested in respiratory critical care included the state-of-the-art session on respiratory critical care, the journal session (ERS/Lancet) on acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) phenotyping into precision medicine, and sessions on specificity of coronavirus disease 2019 ARDS and its post-critical care. A symposium on treatment of acute respiratory failure in patients with COPD and innovations in mechanical ventilation either in the intensive care unit or at home were also reported upon. These sessions are summarised in this article.}, } @article {pmid37228263, year = {2023}, author = {Price, OJ and Paixão, C and Poddighe, D and Miranda, S and Silva, R and Silva, L and Volpato, E and Sylvester, K and Nyberg, A and Šajnić, A and Cruz, J}, title = {ERS International Congress 2022: highlights from the Allied Respiratory Professionals Assembly.}, journal = {ERJ open research}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1183/23120541.00013-2023}, pmid = {37228263}, issn = {2312-0541}, abstract = {In this article, we provide a brief overview of some of the outstanding sessions that were (co)organised by the Allied Respiratory Professionals Assembly during the 2022 European Respiratory Society International Congress, which was held in a hybrid format. Early Career Members from Assembly 9 summarised the content of the sessions, with the support of the Officers from the four Assembly groups: Respiratory Function Technologists and Scientists (Group 9.01); Physiotherapists (Group 9.02); Nurses (Group 9.03); and Psychologists and Behavioural Scientists (Group 9.04). The sessions covered the following topics: recent advances in cardiopulmonary exercise and challenge testing; the role and new trends in physiotherapy, exercise and physical activity promotion interventions in chronic respiratory diseases; development of the international curriculum for respiratory nurses and nursing aspects in disease management; and treatment adherence, e-health interventions and post-coronavirus disease 2019 challenges. This Highlights article targets delegates who attended the Congress sessions, as well as those who were unable to attend, and provides valuable insight into the latest scientific data and emerging areas affecting the clinical practice of Allied Respiratory Professionals.}, } @article {pmid37227755, year = {2023}, author = {Liang, J and Aranda, MP}, title = {The Use of Telehealth Among People Living With Dementia-Caregiver Dyads During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Scoping Review.}, journal = {Journal of medical Internet research}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {e45045}, doi = {10.2196/45045}, pmid = {37227755}, issn = {1438-8871}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Telehealth has gained substantial attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, and reimbursement policies in health care settings have increased access to remote modes of care delivery. Telehealth has the potential to mitigate care concerns for people living with dementia and their family caregivers. There is a paucity of knowledge on the performance of telehealth services and user experiences, especially among caregiving dyads during the pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the implementation, effectiveness, user experience, and barriers to accessing and using telehealth services for people living with dementia and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: Following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist, we searched 7 databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, AgeLine, CINAHL, Social Services Abstracts, Web of Science, and Scopus) and a web-based search engine (Google Scholar). The inclusion criteria for peer-reviewed English publications from March 2020 to August 2022 consisted of studies related to telehealth services for people living with dementia and their family caregivers and studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: A total of 24 articles (10 quantitative and 14 qualitative studies) from 10 different countries were included. The major findings of the reviewed articles were extracted and organized into the following 4 themes: study design characteristics-strategies were adopted to improve the accessibility and experience of people living with dementia-caregiver dyads; efficacy outcomes of telehealth services-robust evidence is lacking on the comparative effectiveness of in-person services; perceived experiences of people living with dementia and caregivers-most reviewed studies reported positive experiences of using telehealth services and perceived personal and social benefits from their participants; and barriers to accessing and using telehealth services-several barriers related to individuals, infrastructure, and telehealth environments were identified.

CONCLUSIONS: Although evidence of its effectiveness is still limited, telehealth is widely accepted as a viable alternative to in-person care for high-risk groups, such as people living with dementia and their caregivers. Future research should include expanding digital access for those with limited resources and low technology literacy, adopting randomized controlled trial designs to establish the comparative effectiveness of different modes of service delivery, and increasing the sample diversity.}, } @article {pmid37227647, year = {2023}, author = {Martínez-Alés, G and Szmulewicz, A and López-Cuadrado, T and Morrison, CN and Keyes, KM and Susser, ES}, title = {Suicide Following the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak: Variation Across Place, Over Time, and Across Sociodemographic Groups. A Systematic Integrative Review.}, journal = {Current psychiatry reports}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37227647}, issn = {1535-1645}, support = {R01-MH121410/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To systematically examine changes in suicide trends following the initial COVID-19 outbreak, focusing on geographical and temporal heterogeneity and on differences across sociodemographic subgroups.

RECENT FINDINGS: Of 46 studies, 26 had low risk of bias. In general, suicides remained stable or decreased following the initial outbreak - however, suicide increases were detected during spring 2020 in Mexico, Nepal, India, Spain, and Hungary; and after summer 2020 in Japan. Trends were heterogeneous across sociodemographic groups (i.e., there were increases among racially minoritized individuals in the US, young adults and females across ages in Japan, older males in Brazil and Germany, and older adults across sex in China and Taiwan). Variations may be explained by differences in risk of COVID-19 contagion and death and in socioeconomic vulnerability. Monitoring geographical, temporal, and sociodemographic differences in suicide trends during the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to guide suicide prevention efforts.}, } @article {pmid37227523, year = {2023}, author = {Canale, FA and Martino, M and Porto, G and Verduci, C and Console, G and Irrera, G and Loteta, B and Naso, V and Pugliese, M and Moscato, T and Ferreri, A and Nappi, D and Nicolini, F and Mazza, M and Martinelli, G and Cerchione, C}, title = {The power of telemedicine to improve CAR-T cell therapy programs: lessons learned from COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer}, volume = {31}, number = {6}, pages = {350}, pmid = {37227523}, issn = {1433-7339}, abstract = {PURPOSE: CAR-T programs will burden increasingly on healthcare systems, since the implementation of these therapies involves: multidisciplinary team collaboration, post-infusion hospitalization with risk of life-threatening toxicities, frequent in hospital visits and prolonged follow-up which heavily influence patients' quality of life. In this review we propose an innovative, telehealth-based, model for monitoring CAR-T patients: this method was used for managing a case of COVID-19 infection occurred two weeks after CAR-T cell infusion.

METHODS: Several benefits for management of all these aspects of CAR-T programs could be made using telemedicine: for example, telemedicine real-time clinical monitoring could reduce the COVID-19 contagion risks for CAR-T patients.

RESULTS: Our experience confirmed feasibility and utility of this approach in a real-life case. We believe that use of telemedicine for CAR-T patients could improve: the logistics of toxicity monitoring (frequent vital sign checks and neurologic assessments), the multidisciplinary team communication (patient selection, specialists consulting, coordination with pharmacists, etc.), the decrease in hospitalization time and the reduction of ambulatory visits.

CONCLUSIONS: This approach will be fundamental for future CAR-T cell program development, enhancing patients' quality of life and cost-effectiveness for healthcare systems.}, } @article {pmid37226951, year = {2023}, author = {Gaiser, M and Buche, J and Baum, NM and Grazier, KL}, title = {Mental Health Needs Due to Disasters: Implications for Behavioral Health Workforce Planning During the COVID-19 Pandemic.}, journal = {Public health reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974)}, volume = {138}, number = {1_suppl}, pages = {48S-55S}, doi = {10.1177/00333549231151888}, pmid = {37226951}, issn = {1468-2877}, abstract = {Public health emergencies impact the well-being of people and communities. Long-term emotional distress is a pervasive and serious consequence of high levels of crisis exposure and low levels of access to mental health care. At highest risk for mental health trauma are historically medically underserved and socially marginalized populations and frontline health care workers (HCWs). Current public health emergency response efforts provide insufficient mental health services for these groups. The ongoing mental health crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic has implications for the resource-strained health care workforce. Public health has an important role in delivering psychosocial care and physical support in tandem with communities. Assessment of US and international public health strategies deployed during past public health emergencies can guide development of population-specific mental health care. The objectives of this topical review were (1) to examine scholarly and other literature on the mental health needs of HCWs and selected US and international policies to address them during the first 2 years of the pandemic and (2) to propose strategies for future responses. We reviewed 316 publications in 10 topic areas. Two-hundred fifty publications were excluded, leaving 66 for this topical review. Findings from our review indicate a need for flexible, tailored mental health outreach for HCWs after disasters. US and global research emphasizes the dearth of institutional mental health support for HCWs and of mental health providers who specialize in helping the health care workforce. Future public health disaster responses must address the mental health needs of HCWs to prevent lasting trauma.}, } @article {pmid37226756, year = {2023}, author = {Mitten, MJ}, title = {Playing the 2020 College Football Season: An Authorized, Lawful, and Reasonable Decision by NCAA Division I FBS Universities.}, journal = {The Journal of law, medicine & ethics : a journal of the American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics}, volume = {51}, number = {1}, pages = {119-122}, doi = {10.1017/jme.2023.46}, pmid = {37226756}, issn = {1748-720X}, } @article {pmid37226561, year = {2023}, author = {Kim, JY and Oh, S and Yoon, M and Yong, TS}, title = {Importance of Balanced Attention Toward Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Neglected Tropical Diseases.}, journal = {Yonsei medical journal}, volume = {64}, number = {6}, pages = {351-358}, doi = {10.3349/ymj.2022.0656}, pmid = {37226561}, issn = {1976-2437}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has been spreading since 2019, causing a worldwide pandemic. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, tuberculosis, AIDS, and malaria have adversely affected the quality of life of patients and killed millions of people. In addition, COVID-19 continues to impede the delivery of health services, including those for the control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Furthermore, NTDs have been reported as possible co-pathogens among patients infected with COVID-19. However, studies regarding parasitic co-infection among these patients have been limited. This review aimed to explore and describe the cases and reports of parasitic infections in the backdrop of COVID-19 to provide comprehensive knowledge regarding this aspect. We reviewed seven cases of patients who had parasitic co-infection and tested positive for COVID-19, and summarized the literature on the importance of controlling parasitic diseases. In addition, we identified recommendations for the control of parasitic diseases under possible difficulties, such as declining funding for parasitic diseases in 2020. This review highlights the growing burden of NTDs under COVID-19 that may be caused by the deficiency of healthcare infrastructure and human resources as the main reasons. Clinicians should remain vigilant for possible co-infections with parasites in COVID-19 patients, while policymakers are urged to reinforce a balanced and long-term health strategy that addresses both NTDs and COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37226329, year = {2023}, author = {Poitras, ME and Couturier, Y and Beaupré, P and Girard, A and Aubry, F and Vaillancourt, VT and Carrier, JD and Fortin, L and Racine, J and Morneau, J and Boudreault, A and Cormier, C and Morin, A and McGraw, M}, title = {Collaborative practice competencies needed for telehealth delivery by health and social care professionals: a scoping review.}, journal = {Journal of interprofessional care}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-15}, doi = {10.1080/13561820.2023.2213712}, pmid = {37226329}, issn = {1469-9567}, abstract = {In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, many healthcare and social services professionals have had to provide services through virtual care. In the workplace, such professionals often need to be sufficiently resourced to collaborate and address collaborative care barriers in telehealth. We performed a scoping review to identify the competencies required to support interprofessional collaboration among clinicians in telehealth. We followed Arksey and O'Malley's and the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodological guidelines, including quantitative and qualitative peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2021. We expanded our data sources by searching for any organization or experts in the field via Google. The analysis of the resulting thirty-one studies and sixteen documents highlighted that health and social services professionals are generally unaware of the competencies they need to develop or maintain interprofessional collaboration in telehealth. In an era of digital innovations, we believe this gap may jeopardize the quality of the services offered to patients and needs to be addressed. Of the six competency domains in the National Interprofessional Competency Framework, it was observed that interprofessional conflict resolution was the competency that emerged least as an essential competency to be developed, while interprofessional communication and patient/client/family/community-centered care were identified as the two most reported essential competencies.}, } @article {pmid37226245, year = {2023}, author = {Spinetti, G and Mutoli, M and Greco, S and Riccio, F and Ben-Aicha, S and Kenneweg, F and Jusic, A and de Gonzalo-Calvo, D and Nossent, AY and Novella, S and Kararigas, G and Thum, T and Emanueli, C and Devaux, Y and Martelli, F}, title = {Cardiovascular complications of diabetes: role of non-coding RNAs in the crosstalk between immune and cardiovascular systems.}, journal = {Cardiovascular diabetology}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {122}, pmid = {37226245}, issn = {1475-2840}, support = {Transition Fellowship/BHF_/British Heart Foundation/United Kingdom ; programme grant (RG RG/20/9/35101)/BHF_/British Heart Foundation/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Diabetes mellitus, a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high levels of blood glucose caused by insulin defect or impairment, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and related mortality. Patients with diabetes experience a state of chronic or intermittent hyperglycemia resulting in damage to the vasculature, leading to micro- and macro-vascular diseases. These conditions are associated with low-grade chronic inflammation and accelerated atherosclerosis. Several classes of leukocytes have been implicated in diabetic cardiovascular impairment. Although the molecular pathways through which diabetes elicits an inflammatory response have attracted significant attention, how they contribute to altering cardiovascular homeostasis is still incompletely understood. In this respect, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a still largely under-investigated class of transcripts that may play a fundamental role. This review article gathers the current knowledge on the function of ncRNAs in the crosstalk between immune and cardiovascular cells in the context of diabetic complications, highlighting the influence of biological sex in such mechanisms and exploring the potential role of ncRNAs as biomarkers and targets for treatments. The discussion closes by offering an overview of the ncRNAs involved in the increased cardiovascular risk suffered by patients with diabetes facing Sars-CoV-2 infection.}, } @article {pmid37226198, year = {2023}, author = {Dunne, EM and Nunes, MC and Slack, MPE and Theilacker, C and Gessner, BD}, title = {Effects of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines on reducing the risk of respiratory disease associated with coronavirus infection.}, journal = {Pneumonia (Nathan Qld.)}, volume = {15}, number = {1}, pages = {10}, pmid = {37226198}, issn = {2200-6133}, abstract = {Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) provide protection against vaccine-type pneumococcal disease in both children and adults. Growing evidence suggests that PCVs also reduce pneumonia and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) more broadly, including protecting against viral-associated respiratory diseases. In this short narrative review, we highlight clinical studies investigating whether PCVs might have a role in reducing coronavirus disease, both those caused by endemic human coronaviruses (HCoVs) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). These studies include two randomized controlled trials assessing HCoV-associated pneumonia, one each in children and older adults, and two observational studies of PCV13 effectiveness against HCoV-associated LRTI and COVID-19 in adults. We discuss possible mechanisms for PCV protection including preventing viral pneumococcal co-infections and the possibility that pneumococci in the upper respiratory tract might modify the host immune response to SARS-CoV-2. Lastly, we identify knowledge gaps and further questions on the potential role of PCVs during the COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37226033, year = {2023}, author = {Nouraeinejad, A}, title = {The functional and structural changes in the hippocampus of COVID-19 patients.}, journal = {Acta neurologica Belgica}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37226033}, issn = {2240-2993}, abstract = {Since the hippocampus is predominantly susceptible to injuries caused by COVID-19, there are increasing data indicating the likelihood of post-infection memory loss and quickening neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. This is due to the fact that the hippocampus has imperative functions in spatial and episodic memory as well as learning. COVID-19 activates microglia in the hippocampus and induces a CNS cytokine storm, leading to loss of hippocampal neurogenesis. The functional and structural changes in the hippocampus of COVID-19 patients can explain neuronal degeneration and reduced neurogenesis in the human hippocampus. This will open a window to explain memory and cognitive dysfunctions in "long COVID" through the resultant loss of hippocampal neurogenesis.}, } @article {pmid37225102, year = {2023}, author = {Li, M and Pan, Y and Hou, Z and Wu, Z and Zeng, Z and Wang, B}, title = {Plastic or plastic-free life: From formation to removal.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {164359}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164359}, pmid = {37225102}, issn = {1879-1026}, abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have caused global environmental concerns due to their ubiquitous existence in our surrounding environment and the potential threats posed to the ecosystem and human health. This review aims to extend current knowledge on the formation and degradation of MPs and NPs. The paper presents the potential sources of MPs and NPs including plastic containers, textiles, cosmetics, personal care products, COVID-19 wastes, and other plastic products. Once in the natural environment, the fragmentation and degradation of plastic wastes are thought to be initiated by physical, chemical, and biological factors. The corresponding degradation mechanism will be presented in the present review. Given the plastic life and environment, humans are inevitably exposed to MPs and NPs through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. The potential risks MPs/NPs pose to humans will be also discussed in our study. Currently, the relevance of MP/NP exposure to human health outcomes is still controversial and not yet fully understood. Deciphering the translocation and degradation of plastics in the human body will be helpful to reveal their potential organotoxicity. In this case, available approaches to alleviate MP/NP pollution and advanced strategies to reduce MP/NP toxicity in humans are recommended to build a plastic-free life.}, } @article {pmid37224885, year = {2023}, author = {Owens, CD and Pinto, CB and Detwiler, S and Mukli, P and Peterfi, A and Szarvas, Z and Hoffmeister, J and Galindo, J and Noori, J and Kirkpatrick, AC and Dasari, TW and James, J and Tarantini, S and Csiszar, A and Ungvari, Z and Prodan, CI and Yabluchanskiy, A}, title = {Cerebral small vessel disease pathology in COVID-19 patients: a systematic review.}, journal = {Ageing research reviews}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101962}, doi = {10.1016/j.arr.2023.101962}, pmid = {37224885}, issn = {1872-9649}, abstract = {Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is the leading cause of vascular cognitive impairment and is associated with COVID-19. However, contributing factors that often accompany CSVD pathology in COVID-19 patients may influence the incidence of cerebrovascular complications. Thus, a mechanism linking COVID-19 and CSVD has yet to be uncovered and differentiated from age-related comorbidities (i.e., hypertension), and medical interventions during acute infection. We aimed to evaluate CSVD in acute and recovered COVID-19 patients and to differentiate COVID-19-related cerebrovascular pathology from the above-mentioned contributing factors by assessing the localization of microbleeds and ischemic lesions/infarctions in the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem. A systematic search was performed in December 2022 on PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase using a pre-established search criterion related to history of, or active COVID-19 with CSVD pathology in adults. From a pool of 161 studies, 59 met eligibility criteria and were included. Microbleeds and ischemic lesions had a strong predilection for the corpus callosum and subcortical/deep white matter in COVID-19 patients, suggesting a distinct CSVD pathology. These findings have important implications for clinical practice and biomedical research as COVID-19 may independently, and through exacerbation of age-related mechanisms, contribute to increased incidence of CSVD.}, } @article {pmid37224652, year = {2023}, author = {Shi, L and Wang, Y and Han, X and Wang, Y and Xu, J and Yang, H}, title = {Comorbid asthma decreased the risk for COVID-19 mortality in the United Kingdom: Evidence based on a meta-analysis.}, journal = {International immunopharmacology}, volume = {120}, number = {}, pages = {110365}, pmid = {37224652}, issn = {1878-1705}, abstract = {The study aimed to investigate the influence of comorbid asthma on the risk for mortality among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the United Kingdom (UK) by utilizing a quantitative meta-analysis. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated by conducting a random-effects model. Sensitivity analysis, I[2] statistic, meta-regression, subgroup analysis, Begg's analysis and Egger's analysis were all implemented. Our results presented that comorbid asthma was significantly related to a decreased risk for COVID-19 mortality in the UK based on 24 eligible studies with 1,209,675 COVID-19 patients (pooled OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.71-0.93; I[2] = 89.2%, P < 0.01). Coming through further meta-regression to seek the possible cause of heterogeneity, none of elements might be responsible for heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis proved the stability and reliability of the overall results. Both Begg's analysis (P = 1.000) and Egger's analysis (P = 0.271) manifested that publication bias did not exist. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that COVID-19 patients with comorbid asthma might bear a lower risk for mortality in the UK. Furthermore, routine intervention and treatment of asthma patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection should be continued in the UK.}, } @article {pmid37224644, year = {2023}, author = {Elkefi, S and Trapani, D and Ryan, S}, title = {The role of digital health in supporting cancer patients' mental health and psychological well-being for a better quality of life: A systematic literature review.}, journal = {International journal of medical informatics}, volume = {176}, number = {}, pages = {105065}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2023.105065}, pmid = {37224644}, issn = {1872-8243}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This work aims to evaluate the role of digital health in supporting the mental and psychological well-being of patients with cancer and identify the associated challenges of use and implementation.

METHODS: Eligibility criteria: We included peer-reviewed studies (quantitative/qualitative) published between January 2011 and July 2022, that are written in English using technology to support cancer patients' mental health. We excluded opinion papers, editorials, and commentaries.

INFORMATION SOURCES: The systematic review was conducted across ProQuest CENTRAL, Scopus, PubMed, PsycInfo, Web Of Science, and IEEE Xplore. The study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews, meta-Analysis Reviews, and meta-Analysis guidelines (PRISMA). Risk of bias: All screening steps followed a consensus between the authors to minimize bias or discrepancy. Synthesis of the results: Data were extracted following the Six-factor Model of Psychological Well-being (SMPW). The technology challenges are summarized following the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model (SEIPS), focusing on design, impact on processes, and outcomes.

RESULTS: We included 25 studies satisfying our inclusion criteria. The studies had little interest in minorities and sociodemographic factors' assessment within their results. The review showed that mental health and psychological well-being tools cover many applications. In addition to allowing personal growth, digital health can help cancer patients gain more autonomy and self-acceptance. Moreover, these health technologies can aid in mastering the environment, shaping social relationships, and pursuing life goals. Many challenges were identified related to the environment, organization, users, and tasks.

DISCUSSION: Digital health applications for cancer care cover a broad spectrum of mental health interventions. Challenges warrant analyzing the needs and usability. Lessons learned during COVID-19 may help refine technology interventions for mental health in cancer care. More interest in minorities is needed when designing technologies for patients to ensure more access to equitable care.}, } @article {pmid37223672, year = {2023}, author = {Jaisamrarn, U and Esteban-Habana, MA and Padolina, CS and Decena, DCD and Dee, MT and Damodaran, P and Bhaskaran, V and Garg, V and Dorado, E and Hu, H}, title = {Vitamins and minerals, education, and self-care need during preconception to 1000 days of life in Southeast Asia: An expert panel opinion.}, journal = {SAGE open medicine}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {20503121231173377}, pmid = {37223672}, issn = {2050-3121}, abstract = {Addressing maternal malnutrition and its drivers is paramount in Southeast Asia. This article summarizes the key clinical learnings and evidence-based opinions from the experts to understand the need for vitamins and minerals supplementation, education, and self-care from preconception to the first 1000 days of life, which warranted further attention since COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence describing the importance of vitamins and minerals during preconception, pregnancy, and lactation stages was identified using literature databases. A pre-meeting survey was conducted to determine the current practices and challenges in Southeast Asia. Based on the literature review and clinical experience, experts defined the topics, and an online meeting was held on 13th July 2021. During the meeting, nine experts from Southeast Asia provided evidence-based opinion on the vitamins and minerals supplementation, education, and self-care need during preconception, pregnancy, and lactation stages. The expert opinions underpin maternal malnutrition as a prevalent issue and discuss appropriate interventions and prevention strategies for women in Southeast Asia. The recent pandemic further impacted nutrition status, pregnancy, and neonatal health outcomes. The expert panel emphasized a need to improve existing inadequacies in education, self-care, and social support, and discussed the role of policymakers in addressing the barriers to dietary changes. As inadequacies in regular vitamins and minerals supplementation, education, and self-care for women of reproductive age implicate maternal and child health outcomes, there is an urgent need for addressing malnutrition concerns in this population. Thus, a strong partnership between policymakers, healthcare professionals, and other relevant sectors is required.}, } @article {pmid37223586, year = {2023}, author = {Barlas, N and Barlas, SB and Basnyat, S and Adalier, E}, title = {Telemedicine in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review of the PubMed Literature.}, journal = {Mediterranean journal of rheumatology}, volume = {34}, number = {1}, pages = {16-23}, pmid = {37223586}, issn = {2529-198X}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of telemedicine in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The paper intends to provide a narrative review of the PubMed literature (2017-2023) on the application of telemedicine in the management of RA to identify the trends in the application of telemedicine in RA and future research needs.

METHODS: The PubMed database was used to research data. "Telemedicine" and "rheumatoid arthritis" keywords were entered in the search box. Out of 126 publications between 2017-2023, ones that did not directly address RA, not relate to telemedicine, case reports, preliminary reports and comments to editors were screened. 31 articles were selected for the study.

RESULTS: 27 of 31 studies support the value of telemedicine in the monitoring of RA patients. Patient-reported outcomes mostly report positive perceptions, high satisfaction, and convenience. There was no statistically significant difference between telemedicine and hospital visits. Four studies reported the quality of care of telemedicine consultations was inferior to in-person consultations. One of these four studies reported limited health and digital literacy, and older age reduce satisfaction with telemedicine. Comparative and randomised clinical studies and research on modes of telemedicine were limited in quantity. Limitations in study design, lack of evaluation in various settings may impact the generalisability of findings.

CONCLUSION: This review suggests that telemedicine is beneficial in the management of RA, however more studies are needed to pinpoint the most effective uses of telemedicine and to explore alternative health care services for patients with barriers to access telemedicine.}, } @article {pmid37223456, year = {2023}, author = {Eslait-Olaciregui, S and Llinás-Caballero, K and Patiño-Manjarrés, D and Urbina-Ariza, T and Cediel-Becerra, JF and Domínguez-Domínguez, CA}, title = {Serious neurological adverse events following immunization against SARS-CoV-2: a narrative review of the literature.}, journal = {Therapeutic advances in drug safety}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {20420986231165674}, pmid = {37223456}, issn = {2042-0986}, abstract = {Amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, massive immunization campaigns became the most promising public health measure. During clinical trials, certain neurological adverse effects following immunization (AEFIs) were observed; however, acceptable safety profiles lead to emergency authorization for the distribution and use of the vaccines. To contribute to pharmacovigilance and lessen the potential negative impact that vaccine hesitancy would have on immunization programs, we conducted a review of the scientific literature concerning the epidemiological data, clinical presentation, and potential mechanisms of these neurological AEFIs. There is some epidemiological evidence linking COVID-19 vaccines to cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, arterial ischemic stroke, convulsive disorder, Guillain-Barré syndrome, facial nerve palsy, and other neurological conditions. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis has been associated with a thrombotic thrombocytopenia induced by the vaccine, similar to that induced by heparin, which suggests similar pathogenic mechanisms (likely involving antibodies against platelet factor 4, a chemokine released from activated platelets). Arterial ischemic stroke is another thrombotic condition observed among some COVID-19 vaccine recipients. Vaccine-induced convulsive disorder might be the result of structural abnormalities potentially caused by the vaccine or autoimmune mechanisms. Guillain-Barré syndrome and facial nerve palsy may also be linked to the immunization event, possibly due to immune mechanisms such as uncontrolled cytokine release, autoantibody production, or bystander effect. However, these events are mostly uncommon and the evidence for the association with the vaccine is not conclusive. Furthermore, the potential pathophysiological mechanisms remain largely unknown. Nevertheless, neurological AEFIs can be serious, life-threatening or even fatal. In sum, COVID-19 vaccines are generally safe and the risk of neurological AEFIs does not outweigh the benefits of immunization. However, early diagnosis and treatment of neurological AEFIs are of utmost importance, and both health professionals and the public should be aware of these conditions.}, } @article {pmid37223223, year = {2023}, author = {Hiwale, M and Walambe, R and Potdar, V and Kotecha, K}, title = {A systematic review of privacy-preserving methods deployed with blockchain and federated learning for the telemedicine.}, journal = {Healthcare analytics (New York, N.Y.)}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {100192}, pmid = {37223223}, issn = {2772-4425}, abstract = {The unexpected and rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the acceptance of remote healthcare systems such as telemedicine. Telemedicine effectively provides remote communication, better treatment recommendation, and personalized treatment on demand. It has emerged as the possible future of medicine. From a privacy perspective, secure storage, preservation, and controlled access to health data with consent are the main challenges to the effective deployment of telemedicine. It is paramount to fully overcome these challenges to integrate the telemedicine system into healthcare. In this regard, emerging technologies such as blockchain and federated learning have enormous potential to strengthen the telemedicine system. These technologies help enhance the overall healthcare standard when applied in an integrated way. The primary aim of this study is to perform a systematic literature review of previous research on privacy-preserving methods deployed with blockchain and federated learning for telemedicine. This study provides an in-depth qualitative analysis of relevant studies based on the architecture, privacy mechanisms, and machine learning methods used for data storage, access, and analytics. The survey allows the integration of blockchain and federated learning technologies with suitable privacy techniques to design a secure, trustworthy, and accurate telemedicine model with a privacy guarantee.}, } @article {pmid37223184, year = {2023}, author = {Banerjee, A and Das, M and Verma, P and Chatterjee, A and Ramalingam, K and Srivastava, KC}, title = {COVID-19 and Mucormycosis of Orofacial Region: A Scoping Review.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37984}, pmid = {37223184}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {During the second wave of coronavirus disease, or COVID-19, infection due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus in the year 2021 around the globe, there is a surge in the number of cases of mucormycosis or "Black Fungus" that is directly/indirectly associated with COVID-19. In this review article, mucormycosis of the orofacial region has gained importance from the maximum published literature (45 articles) from various databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Rhino-orbital cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is a fatal condition associated with COVID-19 among categories of mucormycosis such as pulmonary, oral, gastrointestinal, cutaneous, and disseminated. ROCM targets the maxillary sinus, also involving teeth of the maxilla, orbits, and ethmoidal sinus. These are of particular interest to dentists and oral pathologists for proper diagnosis and identification. Co-morbid conditions, especially diabetes mellitus type II, have to be monitored carefully in COVID-19 patients as they have a higher risk of developing mucormycosis. In this review article, various presentations of COVID-19-linked mucormycosis are mentioned having particular emphasis on pathogenesis, signs and symptoms, clinical presentation, various diagnostic modalities including histopathology, radiology like CT and MRI, serology, tissue culture, various laboratory investigations, treatment protocols, management with prognosis, and so on. Any suspected case of mucormycosis needs quick detection and treatment since it progresses quickly due to the destructive course of infection. Long-term follow-up along with proper care is a must to detect any kind of recurrence.}, } @article {pmid37223162, year = {2023}, author = {Shaheen, N and Ramadan, A and Shaheen, A and Elmasry, M and Swed, S and Hafez, W and Wael, M}, title = {Myocarditis Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37999}, pmid = {37223162}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {COVID-19 vaccination has significantly reduced both the morbidity and mortality rates associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccines, especially mRNA vaccines, have been proposed in several studies to complicate viral myocarditis. Thus, our systematic and meta-analysis review aims to further investigate the possibility of an association between COVID-19 vaccines and myocarditis. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Ovid, and Google Scholar and did a gray search of other databases using the following keywords and terms: "Myocarditis ("Myocarditis" Mesh) OR "Chagas Cardiomyopathy" Mesh) AND "COVID-19 Vaccines" Mesh. The studies were limited to only English articles that reported myocardial inflammation or myocarditis associated with COVID-19 vaccines. Pooled risk ratio with its 95% confidence interval was analyzed by RevMan software (5.4) to perform the meta-analysis. Our study included 671 patients from 44 studies with a mean age of 14-40 years. Nevertheless, myocarditis was noted in a mean of (3.227) days, and 4.19 per million vaccination recipients experienced myocarditis. Most cases were clinically presented with manifestations of cough, chest pain, and fever. Laboratory tests revealed increased C-reactive protein, and troponin with all other cardiac markers in most patients. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed late gadolinium enhancement with myocardial edema and cardiomegaly. Also, electrocardiograms revealed ST-segment elevation in most patients. Furthermore, the incidence of myocarditis was statistically significantly lower in the COVID-19 vaccine group as compared with the control group (RR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.10-0.23, p-value < 0.00001). No significant association was found between COVID-19 vaccines and the incidence of myocarditis. The study's findings highlight the importance of implementing evidence-based COVID-19 prevention strategies, such as vaccination, to reduce the public health impact of COVID-19 and its associated complications.}, } @article {pmid37223116, year = {2023}, author = {Kandula, UR and Wake, AD}, title = {Effectiveness of RCTs Pooling Evidence on Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) Therapeutic Applications During COVID-19 Epidemic: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Biologics : targets & therapy}, volume = {17}, number = {}, pages = {85-112}, pmid = {37223116}, issn = {1177-5475}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Global pandemic identified as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in a variety of clinical symptoms, from asymptomatic carriers to those with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (SARS) and moderate upper respiratory tract symptoms (URTS). This systematic review aimed to determine effectiveness of stem cell (SC) applications among COVID-19 patients.

METHODS: Multiple databases of PubMed, EMBASE, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were used. Studies were screened, chosen, and included in this systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 flowchart diagram and PRISMA checklist. Included studies' quality was assessed employing Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) quality evaluation criteria for 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

RESULTS: Fourteen RCTs were performed between the years of 2020 to 2022, respectively, with a sample size n = 574 (treatment group (n = 318); control group (n = 256)) in multiple countries of Indonesia, Iran, Brazil, Turkey, China, Florida, UK, and France. The greatest sample size reported from China among 100 COVID-19 patients, while the lowest sample of 9 COVID-19 patients from Jakarta, Indonesia, and the patient's age ranges from 18 to 69 years. Studies applied to the type of SC were "Umbilical cord MSCs, MSCs secretome, MSCs, Placenta-derived MSCs, Human immature dental pulp SC, DW-MSC infusion, Wharton Jelly-derived MSCs". The injected therapeutic dose was 1 × 10[6] cells/kg, 1 × 10[7] cells/kg, 1 × 10[5] cells/kg, and 1 million cells/kg as per the evidence from the different studies. Studies focused on demographic variables, clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, Comorbidities, respiratory measures, concomitant therapies, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, mechanical ventilation, body mass index, adverse events, inflammatory markers, and PaO2/FiO2 ratio were all recorded as study characteristics.

CONCLUSION: Clinical evidence on MSC's therapeutic applications during COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a promising therapy for COVID-19 patient recovery with no consequences and applied as a routine treatment for challenging ailments.}, } @article {pmid37222348, year = {2023}, author = {Costa, ACFGS and Fonseca Neto, OCLD}, title = {Intraabdominal hypertension and Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in patients with COVID-19: an integrative review.}, journal = {Revista do Colegio Brasileiro de Cirurgioes}, volume = {50}, number = {}, pages = {e20233539}, doi = {10.1590/0100-6991e-20233539-en}, pmid = {37222348}, issn = {1809-4546}, mesh = {Humans ; *Intra-Abdominal Hypertension ; *COVID-19 ; Intensive Care Units ; Pandemics ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {The first cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed in China, rapidly evolving with worldwide spread, turning into a pandemic. A percentage of these patients develop the severe form of the disease and progress to respiratory distress syndrome, requiring support in Intensive Care Units. Intra-abdominal Hypertension and Abdominal Compartment Syndrome are characterized by increased intra-abdominal pressure, and are subject to several predisposing factors, such as mechanical ventilation assistance, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, elevated PEEP, intestinal obstructions, excessive fluid replacement, major burns and coagulopathies. Hence, for the management of patients with severe COVID-19, there are numerous risk factors for the development of intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome. Therefore, this study proposes to analyze the variables that directly interfere with the increase in intra-abdominal pressure in patients with COVID-19, as well as the changes in the organic systems caused, through an integrative literature review.}, } @article {pmid37221528, year = {2023}, author = {Fasoli, A and Beretta, G and Pravettoni, G and Sanchini, V}, title = {Mapping emerging technologies in aged care: results from an in-depth online research.}, journal = {BMC health services research}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {528}, pmid = {37221528}, issn = {1472-6963}, mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Aging ; Databases, Factual ; Loneliness ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Emerging Technologies (ETs) have recently acquired great relevance in elderly care. The exceptional experience with SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has emphasized the usefulness of ETs in the assistance and remote monitoring of older adults. Technological devices have also contributed to the preservation of social interactions, thus reducing isolation and loneliness. The general purpose of this work is to provide a comprehensive and updated overview of the technologies currently employed in elderly care. This objective was achieved firstly, by mapping and classifying the ETs currently available on the market and, secondly, by assessing the impact of such ETs on elderly care, exploring the ethical values promoted, as well as potential ethical threats.

METHODS: An in-depth search was carried out on Google search engine, by using specific keywords (e.g. technology, monitoring techniques, ambient intelligence; elderly, older adults; care and assistance). Three hundred and twenty-eight technologies were originally identified. Then, based on a predetermined set of inclusion-exclusion criteria, two hundreds and twenty-two technologies were selected.

RESULTS: A comprehensive database was elaborated, where the two hundred and twenty-two ETs selected were classified as follows: category; developmental stage; companies and/or partners; functions; location of development; time of development; impact on elderly care; target; website. From an in-depth qualitative analysis, some ethically-related contents and themes emerged, namely: questions related to safety, independence and active aging, connectedness, empowerment and dignity, cost and efficiency. Although not reported by developers, a close analysis of website contents highlights that positive values are often associated with potential risks, notably privacy threats, deception, dehumanization of care.

CONCLUSIONS: Research findings may ultimately lead to a better understanding of the impact of ETs on elderly people.}, } @article {pmid37072119, year = {2023}, author = {Kibenge, FSB}, title = {Continuous surveillance and viral discovery in animals and humans are a core component of a one-health approach to address recent viral reverse zoonoses.}, journal = {Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association}, volume = {261}, number = {6}, pages = {789-797}, doi = {10.2460/javma.23.03.0148}, pmid = {37072119}, issn = {1943-569X}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *One Health ; Viral Zoonoses ; *COVID-19/veterinary ; Zoonoses/prevention & control ; Animals, Wild ; }, abstract = {Contemporary human and animal viruses have a broad or narrow host range-those with a broad host range are potentially transmitted from animals to humans (ie, zoonosis) or humans to animals (ie, reverse zoonosis). This Currents in One Health article reviews the recent reverse zoonoses involving Coronaviridae, Poxviridae, arboviruses, and, for nonhuman primate species, the human respiratory viruses. The prevention and control of reverse zoonoses are also reviewed. Coronaviruses continue to emerge as new zoonotic agents, including a canine coronavirus, CCoV-HuPn-2018, circulating in people at low levels, and a pangolin coronavirus, MjHKU4r-CoV-1, circulating in Malayan pangolins. Moreover, the risk for SARS-CoV-2 variants to mutate in animal reservoirs and reinfect humans is ongoing. In the case of mpox, the risk of reverse zoonosis is low and there are vaccines for use in humans at risk. The situation with arboviruses is as varied as the number of human arboviruses, and only yellow fever virus and dengue virus have licensed vaccines in the Americas. As for reverse zoonoses in endangered species, solutions require changing human behavior and policies at all levels impacting wildlife. Overall, continuous surveillance and viral discovery in humans and animals remain core components of a one-health approach to reduce and, where possible, eliminate zoonotic and reverse zoonotic diseases. Viral zoonosis and viral reverse zoonosis focusing on recent influenza A virus disease events in humans and other species are the subjects of the companion Currents in One Health by Kibenge, AJVR, June 2023.}, } @article {pmid37046381, year = {2023}, author = {Naito, N and Shigemura, N}, title = {Artificial Lungs for Lung Failure in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic: Contemporary Review.}, journal = {Transplantation}, volume = {107}, number = {6}, pages = {1278-1285}, pmid = {37046381}, issn = {1534-6080}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; *Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy ; Lung ; }, abstract = {In patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), mortality remains high despite optimal medical management. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been widely used to support such patients. ECMO is not a perfect solution; however, there are several limitations and serious complications associated with ECMO use. Moreover, the overall short-term mortality rate of patients with COVID-19 supported by ECMO is high (~30%). Some patients who survive severe acute respiratory distress syndrome have chronic lung failure requiring oxygen supplementation, long-term mechanical ventilation, or ECMO support. Although lung transplant remains the most effective treatment for patients with end-stage lung failure from COVID-19, optimal patient selection and transplant timing for patients with COVID-19-related lung failure are not clear. Access to an artificial lung (AL) that can be used for long-term support as a bridge to transplant, bridge to recovery, or even destination therapy will become increasingly important. In this review, we discuss why the COVID-19 pandemic may drive progress in AL technology, challenges to AL implementation, and how some of these challenges might be overcome.}, } @article {pmid37042814, year = {2023}, author = {Bayuo, J and Duodu, PA}, title = {Hospital Fire Outbreaks Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Low- and Middle-Income Settings.}, journal = {Journal of patient safety}, volume = {19}, number = {4}, pages = {223-228}, doi = {10.1097/PTS.0000000000001124}, pmid = {37042814}, issn = {1549-8425}, mesh = {Humans ; *Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; Hospitals ; Disease Outbreaks ; Health Facilities ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to identify and synthesize existing published and gray literature reporting on hospital fire outbreaks before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

METHODS: A 2-phase narrative review approach was used. The search covered peer-reviewed, gray literature sources, and news outlets. The pre-COVID-19 hospital fire outbreak search period was January 2000-December 2019 while that for during COVID-19 was December 2019-July 2021 (repeated in December 2021).

RESULTS: Thirteen and 24 media reports were identified for the pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19 periods, respectively. Although varied fire risks existed before the emergence of the COVID-19, this article demonstrates that the incidence of hospital fires has increased more than two-folds in recent times in COVID-19 wards and intensive care units causing death, injuries, and extensive damage to properties. The main risk in the pre-COVID-19 era was identified as electrical faults. During the pandemic, other issues such as oxygen explosions, inefficient cooling systems, and lack of fire control measures in makeshift pre-COVID-19 centers were identified as additional risks/causes of the hospital fire outbreaks.

CONCLUSIONS: Additional risks have emerged during the COVID-19 era, which increased the occurrence of hospital fire outbreaks. Guidelines, protocols, and policies regarding the prevention of hospital fire outbreaks and strategies for attenuating its effects need to be highlighted across settings and adhered to. Existing policies need to evolve to help resolve these risks. Beyond the preventive strategies, context-specific psychosocial support is also required for healthcare staff, families, and patients who survive episodes of hospital fire outbreaks.}, } @article {pmid36972306, year = {2023}, author = {Chenais, G and Lagarde, E and Gil-Jardiné, C}, title = {Artificial Intelligence in Emergency Medicine: Viewpoint of Current Applications and Foreseeable Opportunities and Challenges.}, journal = {Journal of medical Internet research}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {e40031}, doi = {10.2196/40031}, pmid = {36972306}, issn = {1438-8871}, mesh = {Humans ; Artificial Intelligence ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; Algorithms ; *Emergency Medicine ; }, abstract = {Emergency medicine and its services have reached a breaking point during the COVID-19 pandemic. This pandemic has highlighted the failures of a system that needs to be reconsidered, and novel approaches need to be considered. Artificial intelligence (AI) has matured to the point where it is poised to fundamentally transform health care, and applications within the emergency field are particularly promising. In this viewpoint, we first attempt to depict the landscape of AI-based applications currently in use in the daily emergency field. We review the existing AI systems; their algorithms; and their derivation, validation, and impact studies. We also propose future directions and perspectives. Second, we examine the ethics and risk specificities of the use of AI in the emergency field.}, } @article {pmid36882916, year = {2023}, author = {Hurwitz, MD and Chundury, A and Goodman, CR and Jones, J and Lo, SS and Saeed, H and Small, W and Schechter, NR}, title = {ACR-ARS Practice Parameter on Informed Consent Radiation Oncology.}, journal = {American journal of clinical oncology}, volume = {46}, number = {6}, pages = {231-235}, doi = {10.1097/COC.0000000000000994}, pmid = {36882916}, issn = {1537-453X}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; *Radiation Oncology ; Clinical Decision-Making ; Informed Consent ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Consent is a communication process between the patient and a health care provider, in which both parties have the opportunity to ask questions and exchange information relevant to the patient's diagnosis and treatment. The process of informed consent is designed to protect a patient's autonomy in their medical decision-making in the context of an asymmetric relationship with the health care system. A proper consent process assures a patient's individual autonomy, reduces the opportunity for abusive conduct or conflicts of interest, and raises trust levels among participants. This document was developed as an educational tool to facilitate these goals.

METHODS: This practice parameter was produced according to the process described under the heading "The Process for Developing ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards" on the ACR website (https://www.acr.org/Clinical-Resources/Practice-Parameters-and-Technical-Standards) by the Committee on Practice Parameters-Radiation Oncology of the ACR Commission on Radiation Oncology in collaboration with the ARS. Committee members were charged with reviewing the prior version of the informed consent practice parameter published in 2017 and recommending additions, modifications, or deletions. The committee met through remote access and subsequently through an online exchange to facilitate the development of the revised document. Focus was given on identifying new considerations and challenges with informed consent given the evolution of the practice of radiation oncology in part driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and other external factors.

RESULTS: A review of the practice parameter published in 2017 confirmed the ongoing relevance of recommendations made at that time. In addition, the evolution of the practice of radiation oncology since the publication of the prior document resulted in the need for new topics to be addressed. These topics include remote consent either through telehealth or telephone and with the patient or their health care proxy.

CONCLUSIONS: Informed consent is an essential process in the care of radiation oncology patients. This practice parameter serves as an educational tool designed to assist practitioners in optimizing this process for the benefit of all involved parties.}, } @article {pmid36808631, year = {2023}, author = {Mallur, P and Ikeda, A and Patel, A and Raol, N and Ahanotu, A and Suarez-Goris, D and Randolph, GW and Shin, JJ}, title = {Evidence-Based Medicine in Otolaryngology Part 14: Falsehood and Bias.}, journal = {Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery}, volume = {168}, number = {6}, pages = {1584-1595}, doi = {10.1002/ohn.215}, pmid = {36808631}, issn = {1097-6817}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Bias ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Falsehood and bias can have tangible effects, whether related to the "hoax" of Corona virus disease/COVID-19 or the impact of personal protective equipment in city-wide news. The spread of false information requires the diversion of time and resources into rebolstering the truth. Our objective is thus to elucidate types of bias that may influence our daily work, along with ways to mitigate them.

DATA SOURCES: Publications are included which delineate specific aspects of bias or address how to preempt, mitigate, or correct bias, whether conscious or unconscious.

REVIEW METHODS: We discuss: (1) the background and rationale for proactively considering potential sources of bias, (2) relevant definitions and concepts, (3) potential means to limit effects of inaccurate data sources, and (4) evolving frontiers in the management of bias. In doing so, we review epidemiological concepts and susceptibility to bias within study designs, including database studies, observational studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. We additionally discuss concepts such as the difference between disinformation and misinformation, differential or nondifferential misclassification, bias toward a null result, and unconscious bias, among others.

CONCLUSION: We have the means to mitigate sources of potential bias in database studies, observational studies, RCTs, and systematic reviews, beginning with education and awareness.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: False information may spread faster than true information, so it is beneficial to understand potential sources of falsehood we face, in order to safeguard our daily impressions and decisions. Awareness of potential sources of falsehood and bias forms the foundation for accuracy in our everyday work.}, } @article {pmid33734882, year = {2023}, author = {Turkdogan, S and Kay-Rivest, E and Giroux, M and Piché, C and Khwaja, K and Mascarella, M and Khalife, S and Alohali, S and Kost, K}, title = {Percutaneous Tracheostomy With a Demistifier Canopy in the COVID-19 Era: A Safe Technique in the Intensive Care Unit.}, journal = {Ear, nose, & throat journal}, volume = {102}, number = {5}, pages = {312-318}, doi = {10.1177/01455613211001595}, pmid = {33734882}, issn = {1942-7522}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Tracheostomy/methods ; Pandemics ; Intensive Care Units ; Critical Care ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Endoscopic percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) is a safe technique that is performed frequently by otolaryngologists and intensivists. New challenges have been identified in order to maintain the safety of this procedure during the COVID-19 pandemic. A novel approach, using a modified demistifier canopy, was developed during the first wave of the pandemic and implemented for 17 consecutive percutaneous tracheostomies in order to enhance procedural safety.

METHODS: A protocol was developed after performing a literature review of tracheostomy in COVID-19 patients. A multidisciplinary tracheostomy team was established, including the departments of otolaryngology, critical care, and respiratory therapy. Simulation was performed prior to each PT, and postoperative debriefings were done.

RESULTS: A protocol and technical description of PT using a modified demistifier canopy covering was written and video documented. Data were collected on 17 patients who underwent this procedure safely in our tertiary care hospital. There were no procedure-related complications, and no evidence of COVID-19 transmission to any member of the health care team during the study period.

CONCLUSION: As patients continue to recover from COVID-19, their need for tracheostomy will increase. The technique described provides a safe, multidisciplinary method of performing PT in COVID-19 patients.}, } @article {pmid37223070, year = {2023}, author = {Alimoradi, Z and Sallam, M and Jafari, E and Potenza, MN and Pakpour, AH}, title = {Prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among migrant and refugee groups: A systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Vaccine: X}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {100308}, pmid = {37223070}, issn = {2590-1362}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Understanding COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among migrant and refugee groups is critical for achieving vaccine equity. Therefore, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among migrant and refugee populations.

METHODS: A systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42022333337) was conducted (December 2019-July 2022) using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest and Google Scholar.

RESULTS: Nineteen studies from 12 countries were included. The pooled estimated prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine willingness among migrant and refugee groups was 70% (19 studies, 95% CI: 62.3-77.4%, I[2]: 99.19%, τ[2]: 0.03). Female and male participants did not differ significantly with each other (p = 0.64). Although no individual variable contributed statistically significantly in multivariable meta-regression analysis, the multivariable model that considered methodological quality, mean age of participants, participant group and country of origin explained 67% of variance.

DISCUSSION: Proportions of migrant/refugee groups receiving COVID-19 vaccinations approximated those observed among general populations. Additional studies are needed to examine factors relating to vaccine willingness to identify the most significant factors that may be targeted in interventions.}, } @article {pmid37222988, year = {2023}, author = {Mengstu, S and Beyene Berha, A}, title = {Safety and Efficacy of COVID-19 Vaccine in Africa: Systematic Review.}, journal = {Infection and drug resistance}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {3085-3100}, pmid = {37222988}, issn = {1178-6973}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic scared the whole world at the end of 2019, which is a communicable respiratory disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). In South Africa and other African countries, the COVID-19 vaccines were subsequently approved for emergency use by the respective national regulatory authorities. There is a paucity of aggregated data that revealed the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in Africa.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the literature on the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine which was given in Africa.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted on Science Direct, PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and direct Google searches. Only studies written in English and published articles from 2019 to October 30, 2022, which comprise nine randomized clinical trials (RCT), and four different studies including a single-arm implementation trials, prospective study, retrospective cohort study, and test-negative designs were included.

RESULTS: A total of 13 studies were included which contain 810,466 participants from Africa. Of these, 62.18% of the participants were female. The efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine in Africa ranges from 41.7% to 100%. Moreover, vaccine efficacy against COVID-19 variants ranges from -5.7% to 100%. In general, systemic and local adverse events following vaccination in most trials were reported with a similar pattern between the placebo and vaccine groups. Out of the total reported adverse events, most of them were mild to moderate, whereas a few were serious.

CONCLUSION: Almost all current COVID-19 vaccines appear to be safe for African study participants. Regarding efficacy, the protein subunit vaccine and mRNA vaccine exhibited high efficacy (100%) in this group of participants. However, Ad26. COV2.S and ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 COVID-19 vaccines are not effective against the delta variant and B.1.351 variant, respectively.}, } @article {pmid37222840, year = {2023}, author = {Fazel, P and Sedighian, H and Behzadi, E and Kachuei, R and Imani Fooladi, AA}, title = {Interaction Between SARS-CoV-2 and Pathogenic Bacteria.}, journal = {Current microbiology}, volume = {80}, number = {7}, pages = {223}, pmid = {37222840}, issn = {1432-0991}, abstract = {The novel human coronavirus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which results in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has caused a serious threat to global public health. Therefore, many studies are performed on the causes and prevalence of this disease and the possible co-occurrence of the infection with other viral and bacterial pathogens is investigated. Respiratory infections predispose patients to co-infections and these lead to increased disease severity and mortality. Numerous types of antibiotics have been employed for the prevention and treatment of bacterial co-infection and secondary bacterial infections in patients with a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although antibiotics do not directly affect SARS-CoV-2, viral respiratory infections often result in bacterial pneumonia. It is possible that some patients die from bacterial co-infection rather than virus itself. Therefore, bacterial co-infection and secondary bacterial infection are considered critical risk factors for the severity and mortality rates of COVID-19. In this review, we will summarize the bacterial co-infection and secondary bacterial infection in some featured respiratory viral infections, especially COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37222292, year = {2023}, author = {Tadayon Najafabadi, B and Rayner, DG and Shokraee, K and Shokraie, K and Panahi, P and Rastgou, P and Seirafianpour, F and Momeni Landi, F and Alinia, P and Parnianfard, N and Hemmati, N and Banivaheb, B and Radmanesh, R and Alvand, S and Shahbazi, P and Dehghanbanadaki, H and Shaker, E and Same, K and Mohammadi, E and Malik, A and Srivastava, A and Nejat, P and Tamara, A and Chi, Y and Yuan, Y and Hajizadeh, N and Chan, C and Zhen, J and Tahapary, D and Anderson, L and Apatu, E and Schoonees, A and Naude, CE and Thabane, L and Foroutan, F}, title = {Obesity as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 severity and mortality.}, journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {CD015201}, pmid = {37222292}, issn = {1469-493X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since December 2019, the world has struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after the introduction of various vaccines, this disease still takes a considerable toll. In order to improve the optimal allocation of resources and communication of prognosis, healthcare providers and patients need an accurate understanding of factors (such as obesity) that are associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes from the COVID-19 infection.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate obesity as an independent prognostic factor for COVID-19 severity and mortality among adult patients in whom infection with the COVID-19 virus is confirmed.

SEARCH METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, two COVID-19 reference collections, and four Chinese biomedical databases were searched up to April 2021.

SELECTION CRITERIA: We included case-control, case-series, prospective and retrospective cohort studies, and secondary analyses of randomised controlled trials if they evaluated associations between obesity and COVID-19 adverse outcomes including mortality, mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospitalisation, severe COVID, and COVID pneumonia. Given our interest in ascertaining the independent association between obesity and these outcomes, we selected studies that adjusted for at least one factor other than obesity. Studies were evaluated for inclusion by two independent reviewers working in duplicate.  DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Using standardised data extraction forms, we extracted relevant information from the included studies. When appropriate, we pooled the estimates of association across studies with the use of random-effects meta-analyses. The Quality in Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) tool provided the platform for assessing the risk of bias across each included study. In our main comparison, we conducted meta-analyses for each obesity class separately. We also meta-analysed unclassified obesity and obesity as a continuous variable (5 kg/m[2] increase in BMI (body mass index)). We used the GRADE framework to rate our certainty in the importance of the association observed between obesity and each outcome. As obesity is closely associated with other comorbidities, we decided to prespecify the minimum adjustment set of variables including age, sex, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease for subgroup analysis.  MAIN RESULTS: We identified 171 studies, 149 of which were included in meta-analyses.  As compared to 'normal' BMI (18.5 to 24.9 kg/m[2]) or patients without obesity, those with obesity classes I (BMI 30 to 35 kg/m[2]), and II (BMI 35 to 40 kg/m[2]) were not at increased odds for mortality (Class I: odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.94 to 1.16, high certainty (15 studies, 335,209 participants); Class II: OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.36, high certainty (11 studies, 317,925 participants)). However, those with class III obesity (BMI 40 kg/m[2] and above) may be at increased odds for mortality (Class III: OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.39 to 2.00, low certainty, (19 studies, 354,967 participants)) compared to normal BMI or patients without obesity. For mechanical ventilation, we observed increasing odds with higher classes of obesity in comparison to normal BMI or patients without obesity (class I: OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.59, 10 studies, 187,895 participants, moderate certainty; class II: OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.42 to 1.96, 6 studies, 171,149 participants, high certainty; class III: OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.59 to 2.97, 12 studies, 174,520 participants, high certainty). However, we did not observe a dose-response relationship across increasing obesity classifications for ICU admission and hospitalisation.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that obesity is an important independent prognostic factor in the setting of COVID-19. Consideration of obesity may inform the optimal management and allocation of limited resources in the care of COVID-19 patients.}, } @article {pmid37220551, year = {2023}, author = {Su, M and Zheng, G and Xu, X and Song, H}, title = {Antigen epitopes of animal coronaviruses: a mini-review.}, journal = {Animal diseases}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, pages = {14}, pmid = {37220551}, issn = {2731-0442}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: Coronaviruses are widespread in nature and can infect mammals and poultry, making them a public health concern. Globally, prevention and control of emerging and re-emerging animal coronaviruses is a great challenge. The mechanisms of virus-mediated immune responses have important implications for research on virus prevention and control. The antigenic epitope is a chemical group capable of stimulating the production of antibodies or sensitized lymphocytes, playing an important role in antiviral immune responses. Thus, it can shed light on the development of diagnostic methods and novel vaccines. Here, we have reviewed advances in animal coronavirus antigenic epitope research, aiming to provide a reference for the prevention and control of animal and human coronaviruses.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s44149-023-00080-0.}, } @article {pmid37220535, year = {2023}, author = {Jia, K and Li, Y and Liu, T and Gu, X and Li, X}, title = {New insights for infection mechanism and potential targets of COVID-19: Three Chinese patent medicines and three Chinese medicine formulas as promising therapeutic approaches.}, journal = {Chinese herbal medicines}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {157-168}, pmid = {37220535}, issn = {2589-3610}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with high pathogenicity and infectiousness has become a sudden and lethal pandemic worldwide. Currently, there is no accepted specific drug for COVID-19 treatment. Therefore, it is extremely urgent to clarify the pathogenic mechanism and develop effective therapies for patients with COVID-19. According to several reliable reports from China, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), especially for three Chinese patent medicines and three Chinese medicine formulas, has been demonstrated to effectively alleviate the symptoms of COVID-19 either used alone or in combination with Western medicines. In this review, we systematically summarized and analyzed the pathogenesis of COVID-19, the detailed clinical practice, active ingredients investigation, network pharmacology prediction and underlying mechanism verification of three Chinese patent medicines and three Chinese medicine formulas in the COVID-19 combat. Additionally, we summarized some promising and high-frequency drugs of these prescriptions and discussed their regulatory mechanism, which provides guidance for the development of new drugs against COVID-19. Collectively, by addressing critical challenges, for example, unclear targets and complicated active ingredients of these medicines and formulas, we believe that TCM will represent promising and efficient strategies for curing COVID-19 and related pandemics.}, } @article {pmid37220529, year = {2023}, author = {Ogunkola, IO and Abiodun, OE and Bale, BI and Elebesunu, EE and Ujam, SB and Umeh, IC and Tom-James, M and Musa, SS and Manirambona, E and Evardone, SB and Lucero-Prisno, DE}, title = {Monkeypox vaccination in the global south: Fighting a war without a weapon.}, journal = {Clinical epidemiology and global health}, volume = {22}, number = {}, pages = {101313}, pmid = {37220529}, issn = {2452-0918}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Mpox outbreak awakened countries worldwide to renew efforts in epidemiological surveillance and vaccination of susceptible populations. In terms of Mpox vaccination, various challenges exist in the global south, which impede adequate vaccine coverage, especially in Africa. This paper reviewed the situation of Mpox vaccination in the global south and potential ameliorative approaches.

METHODS: A review of online literature from PubMed and Google Scholar concerning Mpox vaccination in countries belonging to the 'global south' category was done between August and September, 2022. The major focus areas included inequity in global vaccine distribution, challenges impeding vaccine coverage in the global south, and potential strategies for bridging the gap in vaccine equity. The papers that met the inclusion criteria were collated and narratively discussed.

RESULTS: Our analysis revealed that, while the high-income countries secured large supplies of the Mpox vaccines, the low- and middle-income countries were unable to independently access substantial quantities of the vaccine and had to rely on vaccine donations from high-income countries, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges in the global south particularly revolved around inadequate vaccine production capacity due to lack of qualified personnel and specialized infrastructure for full vaccine development and manufacturing, limited cold chain equipment for vaccine distribution, and consistent vaccine hesitancy.

CONCLUSION: To tackle the trend of vaccine inequity in the global south, African governments and international stakeholders must invest properly in adequate production and dissemination of Mpox vaccines in low- and middle-income countries.}, } @article {pmid37220488, year = {2023}, author = {Moghadam, TT and Ochoa Morales, CE and Lopez Zambrano, MJ and Bruton, K and O'Sullivan, DTJ}, title = {Energy efficient ventilation and indoor air quality in the context of COVID-19 - A systematic review.}, journal = {Renewable & sustainable energy reviews}, volume = {182}, number = {}, pages = {113356}, pmid = {37220488}, issn = {1879-0690}, abstract = {New COVID-19 ventilation guidelines have resulted in higher energy consumption to maintain indoor air quality (IAQ), and energy efficiency has become a secondary concern. Despite the significance of the studies conducted on COVID-19 ventilation requirements, a comprehensive investigation of the associated energy challenges has not been discussed. This study aims to present a critical systematic review of the Coronavirus viral spreading risk mitigation through ventilation systems (VS) and its relation to energy use. COVID-19 heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)-related countermeasures proposed by industry professionals have been reviewed and their influence on operating VS and energy consumption have also been discussed. A critical review analysis was then conducted on publications from 2020 to 2022. Four research questions (RQs) have been selected for this review concerning i) maturity of the existing literature, ii) building types and occupancy profile, iii) ventilation types and effective control strategies and iv) challenges and related causes. The results reveal that employing HVAC auxiliary equipment is mostly effective and increased fresh air supply is the most significant challenge associated with increased energy consumption due to maintaining IAQ. Future studies should focus on novel approaches toward solving the apparently conflicting objectives of minimizing energy consumption and maximizing IAQ. Also, effective ventilation control strategies should be assessed in various buildings with different occupancy densities. The implications of this study can be useful for future development of this topic not only to enhance the energy efficiency of the VS but also to enable more resiliency and health in buildings.}, } @article {pmid37219826, year = {2023}, author = {Rostami, M and Mansouritorghabeh, H}, title = {Significance of heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) in COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Journal of thrombosis and thrombolysis}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37219826}, issn = {1573-742X}, abstract = {Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) occurs in approximately 3% of patients receiving heparinoids. About 30-75% of patients with type 2 of HIT develop thrombosis as a result of platelet activation. The most important clinical symptom is thrombocytopenia. Patients with severe COVID-19 are among those receiving heparinoids. This meta-analysis performed to picture the current knowledge and results of published studies in this field. Three search engines were searched and 575 papers were found. After evaluation, 37 articles were finally selected of which 13 studies were quantitatively analyzed. The pooled frequency rate of suspected cases with HIT in 13 studies with 11,241 patients was 1.7%. The frequency of HIT was 8.2% in the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation subgroup with 268 patients and 0.8% in the hospitalization subgroup with 10,887 patients. The coincidence of these two conditions may increase the risk of thrombosis. Of the 37 patients with COVID-19 and confirmed HIT, 30 patients (81%) were treated in the intensive care unit or had severe COVID-19. The most commonly used anticoagulants were UFH in 22 cases (59.4%). The median platelet count before treatment was 237 (176-290) x 10[3]/µl and the median nadir platelet count was 52 (31-90.5) x 10[3]/µl.}, } @article {pmid37219799, year = {2023}, author = {Romero-Velez, G and Ponce de Leon-Ballesteros, G and Al Zubaidi, M and Barajas-Gamboa, JS and Dang, J and Corcelles, R and Strong, AT and Navarrete, S and Kroh, M}, title = {Presence of SARS-CoV-2 in abdominal tissues and biologic fluids during abdominal surgery: a systematic review.}, journal = {Surgical endoscopy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37219799}, issn = {1432-2218}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Viral transmission to healthcare providers during surgical procedures was a major concern at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The presence of the severe acute respiratory disease syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, in the abdominal cavity as well as in other abdominal tissues which surgeons are exposed has been investigated in several studies. The aim of the present systematic review was to analyze if the virus can be identify in the abdominal cavity.

METHODS: We performed a systematic review to identify relevant studies regarding the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in abdominal tissues or fluids. Number of patients included as well as patient's characteristics, type of procedures, samples and number of positive samples were analyzed.

RESULTS: A total of 36 studies were included (18 case series and 18 case reports). There were 357 samples for detection of SARS-CoV-2, obtained from 295 individuals. A total of 21 samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (5.9%). Positive samples were more frequently encountered in patients with severe COVID-19 (37.5% vs 3.8%, p < 0.001). No health-care provider related infections were reported.

CONCLUSION: Although a rare occurrence, SARS-CoV-2 can be found in the abdominal tissues and fluids. It seems that the presence of the virus in the abdominal tissues or fluids is more likely in patients with severe disease. Protective measures should be employed in the operating room to protect the staff when operating patients with COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37219782, year = {2023}, author = {Aboagye, EM and Effah, NAA and Effah, KO}, title = {A bibliometric analysis of the impact of COVID-19 social lockdowns on air quality: research trends and future directions.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37219782}, issn = {1614-7499}, abstract = {Social lockdowns improved air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Governments had previously spent a lot of money addressing air pollution without success. This bibliometric study measured the influence of COVID-19 social lockdowns on air pollution, identified emerging issues, and discussed future perspectives. The researchers examined the contributions of countries, authors, and most productive journals to COVID-19 and air pollution research from January 1, 2020, to September 12, 2022, from the Web of Sciences Core Collection (WoS). The results showed that (a) publications on the COVID-19 pandemic and air pollution were 504 (research articles) with 7495 citations, (b) China ranked first in the number of publications (n = 151; 29.96% of the global output) and was the main country in international cooperation network, followed by India (n = 101; 20.04% of the total articles) and the USA (n = 41; 8.13% of the global output). Air pollution plagues China, India, and the USA, calling for many studies. After a high spike in 2020, research published in 2021 declined in 2022. The author's keywords have focused on "COVID-19," "air pollution," "lockdown," and "PM25." These keywords suggest that research in this area is focused on understanding the health impacts of air pollution, developing policies to address air pollution, and improving air quality monitoring. The COVID-19 social lockdown served as a specified procedure to reduce air pollution in these countries. However, this paper provides practical recommendations for future research and a model for environmental and health scientists to examine the likely impact of COVID-19 social lockdowns on urban air pollution.}, } @article {pmid37219073, year = {2023}, author = {Nindenshuti, PM and Caire-Juvera, G}, title = {Changes in Diet, Physical Activity, Alcohol Consumption, and Tobacco Use in Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Inquiry : a journal of medical care organization, provision and financing}, volume = {60}, number = {}, pages = {469580231175780}, doi = {10.1177/00469580231175780}, pmid = {37219073}, issn = {1945-7243}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic changed various lifestyle habits worldwide due to the prevention measures implemented in each country, these changes may affect or benefit people's health. We aimed to systematically review changes in diet, physical activity (PA), alcohol consumption, and tobacco use habits during the COVID-19 pandemic in adults. Two databases: PubMed and ScienceDirect, were used for this systematic review. The research was limited to open-access, peer-reviewed original articles published in English, French, or Spanish from January 2020 to December 2022 and investigated diet, PA, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use habits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in adults. Excluded studies were review studies, intervention studies with a sample size of fewer than 30 participants, and poor-quality articles. This review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42023406524), whereas to assess the quality of the studies, we used the quality assessment tools developed by the BSA Medical Sociology Group for cross-sectional studies and the QATSO for the longitudinal studies. Thirty-two studies were included. Some studies reported changes to promote healthy lifestyles; 13 out of 15 articles reported an increase in healthy diet consumption habits, 5 out of 7 studies reported a decrease in alcohol consumption, and 2 out of 3 studies reported a decrease in tobacco use. On the other hand, the other studies reported changes to promote unhealthy lifestyles: 9 out of 15, and 2 out of 7 studies reported an increase in unhealthy diet and alcohol consumption habits respectively, 25 out of 25 reported a decrease in physical activity, and 13 out of 13 reported an increase in sedentary behavior. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been changes to promote a healthy and unhealthy lifestyle; the latter can affect people's health. Therefore, effective responses are needed to mitigate the consequences.}, } @article {pmid37218971, year = {2023}, author = {Pires, C}, title = {A SWOT Analysis of Pharmacy Students' Perspectives on e-Learning Based on a Narrative Review.}, journal = {Pharmacy (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, pages = {}, pmid = {37218971}, issn = {2226-4787}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Online education became the new normal during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the number of studies exploring the potential advantages/disadvantages of e-learning in pharmacy courses is limited.

STUDY AIM: to propose a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis of e-learning according to pharmacy students' perspectives.

METHODS: A narrative review was conducted to examine student pharmacist perspectives on e-learning.

RESULTS: Diverse strengths and weaknesses (internal environment) and opportunities and threats (external environment) were identified, which were grouped into categories, such as (1) students' well-being (e.g., access to classes anywhere vs. students' psychological or physical disorders); (2) teachers and materials (e.g., more diverse/interesting audiovisual materials vs. too challenging materials); (3) technologies (e.g., new education strategies, such as gamification vs. barriers in the access to the internet); (4) classes/training (e.g., more versatile/immediate classes vs. eventual presence of other persons during online classes); and (5) faculty/school of pharmacy (e.g., availability of technical support).

CONCLUSION: Overall, online education seems to be suitable for pharmacy students, although diverse challenges should be addressed, such as the well-being of students or lack of standards. Pharmacy schools should regularly identify/define and implement measures to reinforce opportunities and strengths as well as to solve threats and weaknesses.}, } @article {pmid37218933, year = {2023}, author = {Degli Antoni, M and Crosato, V and Pennati, F and Borghesi, A and Cristini, G and Allegri, R and Capone, S and Bergamasco, A and Soresina, A and Badolato, R and Maroldi, R and Quiros-Roldan, E and Matteelli, A and Castelli, F and Focà, E}, title = {COVID-19 Pneumonia with Migratory Pattern in Agammaglobulinemic Patients: A Report of Two Cases and Review of Literature.}, journal = {Tomography (Ann Arbor, Mich.)}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {894-900}, pmid = {37218933}, issn = {2379-139X}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Pneumonia ; *Genetic Diseases, X-Linked ; *Agammaglobulinemia/complications/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by marked reduction in serum immunoglobulins and early-onset infections. Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia in immunocompromised patients presents clinical and radiological peculiarities which have not yet been completely understood. Very few cases of agammaglobulinemic patients with COVID-19 have been reported since the beginning of the pandemic in February 2020. We report two cases of migrant COVID-19 pneumonia in XLA patients.}, } @article {pmid37218918, year = {2023}, author = {Hidayat, AA and Gunawan, VA and Iragama, FR and Alfiansyah, R and Hertanto, DM and Tjempakasari, A and Thaha, M}, title = {Risk Factors and Clinical Characteristics of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Pathophysiology : the official journal of the International Society for Pathophysiology}, volume = {30}, number = {2}, pages = {233-247}, pmid = {37218918}, issn = {1873-149X}, abstract = {Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a worse prognosis in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Identification of AKI, particularly in COVID-19 patients, is important for improving patients' management. The study aims to assess risk factors and comorbidities of AKI in COVID-19 patients. We systematically searched PubMed and DOAJ databases for relevant studies involving confirmed COVID-19 patients with data on risk factors and comorbidities of AKI. The risk factors and comorbidities were compared between AKI and non-AKI patients. A total of 30 studies involving 22385 confirmed COVID-19 patients were included. Male (OR: 1.74 (1.47, 2.05)), diabetes (OR: 1.65 (1.54, 1.76)), hypertension (OR: 1.82 (1.12, 2.95)), ischemic cardiac disease (OR: 1.70 (1.48, 1.95)), heart failure (OR: 2.29 (2.01, 2.59)), chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR: 3.24 (2.20, 4.79)), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR: 1.86 (1.35, 2.57)), peripheral vascular disease (OR: 2.34 (1.20, 4.56)), and history of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) (OR: 1.59 (1.29, 1.98)) were independent risk factors associated with COVID-19 patients with AKI. Patients with AKI presented with proteinuria (OR: 3.31 (2.59, 4.23)), hematuria (OR: 3.25 (2.59, 4.08)), and invasive mechanical ventilation (OR: 13.88 (8.23, 23.40)). For COVID-19 patients, male gender, diabetes, hypertension, ischemic cardiac disease, heart failure, CKD, COPD, peripheral vascular disease, and history of use of NSAIDs are associated with a higher risk of AKI.}, } @article {pmid37218912, year = {2023}, author = {Soegiarto, G and Purnomosari, D}, title = {Challenges in the Vaccination of the Elderly and Strategies for Improvement.}, journal = {Pathophysiology : the official journal of the International Society for Pathophysiology}, volume = {30}, number = {2}, pages = {155-173}, pmid = {37218912}, issn = {1873-149X}, abstract = {In recent years, the elderly has become a rapidly growing proportion of the world's population as life expectancy is extending. Immunosenescence and inflammaging contribute to the increased risk of chronic non-communicable and acute infectious diseases. Frailty is highly prevalent in the elderly and is associated with an impaired immune response, a higher propensity to infection, and a lower response to vaccines. Additionally, the presence of uncontrolled comorbid diseases in the elderly also contributes to sarcopenia and frailty. Vaccine-preventable diseases that threaten the elderly include influenza, pneumococcal infection, herpes zoster, and COVID-19, which contribute to significant disability-adjusted life years lost. Previous studies had shown that conventional vaccines only yielded suboptimal protection that wanes rapidly in a shorter time. This article reviews published papers on several vaccination strategies that were developed for the elderly to solve these problems: more immunogenic vaccine formulations using larger doses of antigen, stronger vaccine adjuvants, recombinant subunit or protein conjugated vaccines, newly developed mRNA vaccines, giving booster shots, and exploring alternative routes of administration. Included also are several publications on senolytic medications under investigation to boost the immune system and vaccine response in the elderly. With all those in regard, the currently recommended vaccines for the elderly are presented.}, } @article {pmid37217235, year = {2023}, author = {George, AS and Lopes, CA and Vijayasingham, L and Mothupi, MC and Musizvingoza, R and Mishra, G and Stevenson, J and Remme, M}, title = {A shared agenda for gender and COVID-19 research: priorities based on broadening engagement in science.}, journal = {BMJ global health}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2022-011315}, pmid = {37217235}, issn = {2059-7908}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Lactation ; Public Policy ; }, abstract = {While the acute and collective crisis from the pandemic is over, an estimated 2.5 million people died from COVID-19 in 2022, tens of millions suffer from long COVID and national economies still reel from multiple deprivations exacerbated by the pandemic. Sex and gender biases deeply mark these evolving experiences of COVID-19, impacting the quality of science and effectiveness of the responses deployed. To galvanise change by strengthening evidence-informed inclusion of sex and gender in COVID-19 practice, we led a virtual collaboration to articulate and prioritise gender and COVID-19 research needs. In addition to standard prioritisation surveys, feminist principles mindful of intersectional power dynamics underpinned how we reviewed research gaps, framed research questions and discussed emergent findings. The collaborative research agenda-setting exercise engaged over 900 participants primarily from low/middle-income countries in varied activities. The top 21 research questions included the importance of the needs of pregnant and lactating women and information systems that enable sex-disaggregated analysis. Gender and intersectional aspects to improving vaccine uptake, access to health services, measures against gender-based violence and integrating gender in health systems were also prioritised. These priorities are shaped by more inclusive ways of working, which are critical for global health as it faces further uncertainties in the aftermath of COVID-19. It remains imperative to address the basics in gender and health (sex-disaggregated data and sex-specific needs) and also advance transformational goals to advance gender justice across health and social policies, including those related to global research.}, } @article {pmid37213142, year = {2023}, author = {Ahmad, AMR and Intikhab, A and Zafar, S and Farooq, U and Shah, HBU and Akram, S and Abid, J and Parveen, Z and Iqbal, S}, title = {Spirulina, an FDA-Approved Functional Food: Worth the Hype?.}, journal = {Cellular and molecular biology (Noisy-le-Grand, France)}, volume = {69}, number = {1}, pages = {137-144}, doi = {10.14715/cmb/2022.69.1.24}, pmid = {37213142}, issn = {1165-158X}, mesh = {Humans ; Functional Food ; *Spirulina/metabolism ; *COVID-19 ; Dietary Supplements ; Food Additives/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Spirulina, a blue-green microalga is an eminent functional food due to its unique nutritional and disease-mitigating properties. The main objective of this article is to present an overview of the nutritional composition of Spirulina. Along with its therapeutic potential and applications in the food industry. Studies included in this review have suggested spirulina to be a rich source of complete proteins, essential fatty acids (EFAs), vitamins, minerals and various bioactive compounds like carotenoids, chlorophyll, and xanthophylls. This makes Spirulina a promising functional food for the treatment of ailments like diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disorders (CVDs), COVID-19, neuroinflammatory conditions and gut dysbiosis. Additionally, data from numerous studies suggest its use in food formulations, primarily in sports supplements, bakery products, beverages, dairy products, snack sources and confectionaries. It has also been used by the National Aeronautics and Space Association (NASA) for astronauts on space missions to the Moon and Mars. Furthermore, spirulina's use as a natural food additive possesses enormous potential for further research. Owing to its high nutritional profile and disease-fighting potential, it lends itself to numerous food formulations. Therefore, based on the findings of previous studies, further progress can be made considering spirulina's application in the food additive industry.}, } @article {pmid37218800, year = {2023}, author = {Rocca, E and Zanza, C and Longhitano, Y and Piccolella, F and Romenskaya, T and Racca, F and Savioli, G and Saviano, A and Piccioni, A and Mongodi, S}, title = {Lung Ultrasound in Critical Care and Emergency Medicine: Clinical Review.}, journal = {Advances in respiratory medicine}, volume = {91}, number = {3}, pages = {203-223}, doi = {10.3390/arm91030017}, pmid = {37218800}, issn = {2543-6031}, abstract = {Lung ultrasound has become a part of the daily examination of physicians working in intensive, sub-intensive, and general medical wards. The easy access to hand-held ultrasound machines in wards where they were not available in the past facilitated the widespread use of ultrasound, both for clinical examination and as a guide to procedures; among point-of-care ultrasound techniques, the lung ultrasound saw the greatest spread in the last decade. The COVID-19 pandemic has given a boost to the use of ultrasound since it allows to obtain a wide range of clinical information with a bedside, not harmful, repeatable examination that is reliable. This led to the remarkable growth of publications on lung ultrasounds. The first part of this narrative review aims to discuss basic aspects of lung ultrasounds, from the machine setting, probe choice, and standard examination to signs and semiotics for qualitative and quantitative lung ultrasound interpretation. The second part focuses on how to use lung ultrasound to answer specific clinical questions in critical care units and in emergency departments.}, } @article {pmid37218799, year = {2023}, author = {Tsotsolis, S and Kotoulas, SC and Lavrentieva, A}, title = {Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients Lights and Shadows in the Current Landscape.}, journal = {Advances in respiratory medicine}, volume = {91}, number = {3}, pages = {185-202}, doi = {10.3390/arm91030016}, pmid = {37218799}, issn = {2543-6031}, abstract = {Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) presents a known risk to critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2; quantifying the global burden of IPA in SARS-CoV-2 is extremely challenging. The true incidence of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) and the impact on mortality is difficult to define because of indiscriminate clinical signs, low culture sensitivity and specificity and variability in clinical practice between centers. While positive cultures of upper airway samples are considered indicative for the diagnosis of probable CAPA, conventional microscopic examination and qualitative culture of respiratory tract samples have quite low sensitivity and specificity. Thus, the diagnosis should be confirmed with serum and BAL GM test or positive BAL culture to mitigate the risk of overdiagnosis and over-treatment. Bronchoscopy has a limited role in these patients and should only be considered when diagnosis confirmation would significantly change clinical management. Varying diagnostic performance, availability, and time-to-results turnaround time are important limitations of currently approved biomarkers and molecular assays for the diagnosis of IA. The use of CT scans for diagnostic purposes is controversial due to practical concerns and the complex character of lesions presented in SARS-CoV-2 patients. The key objective of management is to improve survival by avoiding misdiagnosis and by initiating early, targeted antifungal treatment. The main factors that should be considered upon selection of treatment options include the severity of the infection, concomitant renal or hepatic injury, possible drug interactions, requirement for therapeutic drug monitoring, and cost of therapy. The optimal duration of antifungal therapy for CAPA is still under debate.}, } @article {pmid37218751, year = {2023}, author = {Kanvinde, S and Deodhar, S and Kulkarni, TA and Jogdeo, CM}, title = {Nanotherapeutic Approaches to Treat COVID-19-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis.}, journal = {Biotech (Basel (Switzerland))}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biotech12020034}, pmid = {37218751}, issn = {2673-6284}, abstract = {There have been significant collaborative efforts over the past three years to develop therapies against COVID-19. During this journey, there has also been a lot of focus on understanding at-risk groups of patients who either have pre-existing conditions or have developed concomitant health conditions due to the impact of COVID-19 on the immune system. There was a high incidence of COVID-19-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) observed in patients. PF can cause significant morbidity and long-term disability and lead to death in the long run. Additionally, being a progressive disease, PF can also impact the patient for a long time after COVID infection and affect the overall quality of life. Although current therapies are being used as the mainstay for treating PF, there is no therapy specifically for COVID-induced PF. As observed in the treatment of other diseases, nanomedicine can show significant promise in overcoming the limitations of current anti-PF therapies. In this review, we summarize the efforts reported by various groups to develop nanomedicine therapeutics to treat COVID-induced PF. These therapies can potentially offer benefits in terms of targeted drug delivery to lungs, reduced toxicity, and ease of administration. Some of the nanotherapeutic approaches may provide benefits in terms of reduced immunogenicity owing to the tailored biological composition of the carrier as per the patient needs. In this review, we discuss cellular membrane-based nanodecoys, extracellular vesicles such as exosomes, and other nanoparticle-based approaches for potential treatment of COVID-induced PF.}, } @article {pmid37218396, year = {2023}, author = {Li, M and Yuan, Y and Zou, T and Hou, Z and Jin, L and Wang, B}, title = {Development trends of human organoid-based COVID-19 research based on bibliometric analysis.}, journal = {Cell proliferation}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e13496}, doi = {10.1111/cpr.13496}, pmid = {37218396}, issn = {1365-2184}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a global pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has posed a catastrophic threat to human health worldwide. Human stem cell-derived organoids serve as a promising platform for exploring SARS-CoV-2 infection. Several review articles have summarized the application of human organoids in COVID-19, but the research status and development trend of this field have seldom been systematically and comprehensively studied. In this review, we use bibliometric analysis method to identify the characteristics of organoid-based COVID-19 research. First, an annual trend of publications and citations, the most contributing countries or regions and organizations, co-citation analysis of references and sources and research hotspots are determined. Next, systematical summaries of organoid applications in investigating the pathology of SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccine development and drug discovery, are provided. Lastly, the current challenges and future considerations of this field are discussed. The present study will provide an objective angle to identify the current trend and give novel insights for directing the future development of human organoid applications in SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, } @article {pmid37217369, year = {2023}, author = {Vafea, MT and Haidar, G}, title = {COVID-19 Prevention in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: Current State of the Evidence.}, journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37217369}, issn = {1557-9824}, abstract = {Although COVID-19 vaccines are safe, most organ transplant recipients fail to mount an antibody response after two mRNA vaccines. Thus, three mRNA vaccines constitute a primary vaccine series after solid organ transplant. However, neutralizing antibodies after three or greater mRNA vaccines are lower against Omicron versus older variants. Predictors of attenuated responses include age, vaccination within 1 year from transplant, mycophenolate, and BNT162b2. Some seronegative transplant recipients exhibit durable T-cell responses. Vaccine effectiveness in transplants is lower than in the general population. Immunosuppression reduction around revaccination warrants further study. Monoclonal antibody pre-exposure prophylaxis may be protective against susceptible variants.}, } @article {pmid37217161, year = {2023}, author = {Reddy, P and Kane, GC and Oh, JK and Luis, SA}, title = {The Evolving Etiological and Epidemiological Portrait of Pericardial Disease.}, journal = {The Canadian journal of cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.cjca.2023.05.011}, pmid = {37217161}, issn = {1916-7075}, abstract = {Pericardial disease includes a variety of pericardial diseases including inflammatory pericarditis, pericardial effusions, constrictive pericarditis, pericardial cysts, primary and secondary pericardial neoplasms. The true incidence of this varied condition is not well established, and the causes vary greatly across the world. This review aims to describe the changing pattern of epidemiology of pericardial disease and to provide an overview of causative etiologies. Idiopathic pericarditis (assumed most often to be viral) remains the most common etiology for pericardial disease globally, with tuberculous pericarditis being most common in developing countries. Other important etiologies include fungal, autoimmune, autoinflammatory, neoplastic (both benign and malignant), immunotherapy-related, radiation therapy-induced, metabolic, post cardiac injury, post-operative, and post-procedural causes. Improved understanding of the immune pathophysiologic pathways has led to identification and reclassification of some idiopathic pericarditis cases into autoinflammatory etiologies, including IgG4-related pericarditis, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) and familial Mediterranean fever in the current era. Contemporary advances in percutaneous cardiac interventions and the recent Covid-19 pandemic have also resulted in changes in the epidemiology of pericardial diseases. Further research is needed to improve our understanding of the etiologies of pericarditis, utilizing the assistance of contemporary advanced imaging techniques and laboratory testing. Careful consideration of the range of potential causes and local epidemiological patterns of causality are important for the optimization of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.}, } @article {pmid37216955, year = {2023}, author = {Singh, SJ and Baldwin, MM and Daynes, E and Evans, RA and Greening, NJ and Jenkins, RG and Lone, NI and McAuley, H and Mehta, P and Newman, J and Novotny, P and Smith, DJF and Stanel, S and Toshner, M and Brightling, CE}, title = {Respiratory sequelae of COVID-19: pulmonary and extrapulmonary origins, and approaches to clinical care and rehabilitation.}, journal = {The Lancet. Respiratory medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37216955}, issn = {2213-2619}, abstract = {Although the exact prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition (also known as long COVID) is unknown, more than a third of patients with COVID-19 develop symptoms that persist for more than 3 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. These sequelae are highly heterogeneous in nature and adversely affect multiple biological systems, although breathlessness is a frequently cited symptom. Specific pulmonary sequelae, including pulmonary fibrosis and thromboembolic disease, need careful assessment and might require particular investigations and treatments. COVID-19 outcomes in people with pre-existing respiratory conditions vary according to the nature and severity of the respiratory disease and how well it is controlled. Extrapulmonary complications such as reduced exercise tolerance and frailty might contribute to breathlessness in post-COVID-19 condition. Non-pharmacological therapeutic options, including adapted pulmonary rehabilitation programmes and physiotherapy techniques for breathing management, might help to attenuate breathlessness in people with post-COVID-19 condition. Further research is needed to understand the origins and course of respiratory symptoms and to develop effective therapeutic and rehabilitative strategies.}, } @article {pmid37216655, year = {2023}, author = {Bae, SH}, title = {Assessing the impacts of nurse staffing and work schedules on nurse turnover: A systematic review.}, journal = {International nursing review}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/inr.12849}, pmid = {37216655}, issn = {1466-7657}, abstract = {AIM: This study aimed to investigate and synthesize the impacts of nurse staffing and work schedules on nurse turnover in acute hospitals.

BACKGROUND: The retention of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic was critical due to the increased demand for nurses. Among the multifaceted factors contributing to nurse turnover, it is worth examining nurse staffing and work schedules while considering policy intervention.

METHODS: The findings of this systematic literature review were reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Using eight databases, including CINAHL and PubMed, research articles published from January 2000 until June 2021 were reviewed. The inclusion criteria were original peer-reviewed research, nonexperimental studies published in English or Korean languages, and studies examining the impacts of nurse staffing and work schedules on nurses' actual turnover.

RESULTS: Fourteen articles were reviewed. Among them, 12 studies investigated the relationship between nurse staffing and turnover, and four examined the impact of work schedules on nurse turnover. Nurse staffing levels are strongly related to nurse turnover in the expected direction. However, few studies have found that work schedules are significantly related to nurse turnover.

CONCLUSION: Inadequate and unsafe nurse staffing leads to increased nurse turnover rates. More studies are needed to investigate the impacts of work schedules on nurse turnover.

Several states in the United States have adopted the nurse staffing policy during the COVID-19 pandemic. More hospitals and the government should adopt and implement policies to regulate nurse staffing, reduce nurse turnover, and increase retention. Policy intervention in nurse work schedules should also be considered to prevent nurse turnover.}, } @article {pmid37215473, year = {2023}, author = {Li, H and Liu, G and Zhou, Q and Yang, H and Zhou, C and Kong, W and Su, J and Li, G and Si, H and Ou, C}, title = {Which strain of the avian coronavirus vaccine will become the prevalent one in China next?.}, journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1139089}, pmid = {37215473}, issn = {2297-1769}, abstract = {Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a vital pathogen in poultry farms, which can induce respiratory, nephropathogenic, oviduct, proventriculus, and intestinal diseases. Based on the phylogenetic classification of the full-length S1 gene, IBV isolates have been categorized into nine genotypes comprising 38 lineages. GI (GI-1, GI-2, GI-3, GI-4, GI-5, GI-6, GI-7, GI-13, GI-16, GI-18, GI-19, GI-22, GI-28, and GI-29), GVI-1 and GVII-1 have been reported in China in the past 60 years. In this review, a brief history of IBV in China is described, and the current epidemic strains and licensed IBV vaccine strains, as well as IBV prevention and control strategies, are highlighted. In addition, this article presents unique viewpoints and recommendations for a more effective management of IBV. The recombinant Newcastle Disease virus (NDV) vector vaccine expressed S gene of IBV QX-like and 4/91 strains may be the dominant vaccine strains against NDV and IBV.}, } @article {pmid37215426, year = {2023}, author = {Lempesis, IG and Georgakopoulou, VE}, title = {Implications of obesity and adiposopathy on respiratory infections; focus on emerging challenges.}, journal = {World journal of clinical cases}, volume = {11}, number = {13}, pages = {2925-2933}, pmid = {37215426}, issn = {2307-8960}, abstract = {Obesity is characterized by excessive adipose tissue accumulation, which impacts physiological, metabolic, and immune functions. Several respiratory infections, including bacterial pneumonia, influenza, and coronavirus disease 2019, appear to be linked to unfavorable results in individuals with obesity. These may be attributed to the direct mechanical/physiological effects of excess body fat on the lungs' function. Notably, adipose tissue dysfunction is associated with a low-grade chronic inflammatory status and hyperleptinemia, among other characteristics. These have all been linked to immune system dysfunction and weakened immune responses to these infections. A better understanding and clinical awareness of these risk factors are necessary for better disease outcomes.}, } @article {pmid37215313, year = {2023}, author = {Charuta, A and Smuniewska, M and Woźniak, Z and Paziewska, A}, title = {Effect of COVID-19 on Pregnancy and Neonate's Vital Parameters: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Journal of pregnancy}, volume = {2023}, number = {}, pages = {3015072}, pmid = {37215313}, issn = {2090-2735}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is a new pandemic, which was declared by the World Health Organization in 2019 as a threat to public health. According to numerous reports, it can have negative consequences for pregnant women, labour, and neonates born to infected mothers. The aim of this paper was to gather the evidence and to present a summary of the results of studies concerning COVID-19 in pregnant women and their neonates.

METHODS: Articles from prestigious journals covering the period from 2020 to February 2023, relevant review papers, and original research articles from PubMed were analysed. In order to analyse the available research literature, the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases were used, in which the search for articles was conducted using terms ("pregnancy," "coronavirus," "SARS-CoV-2," and "newborn") and using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines for clinical trials. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews (2022-2023) on symptoms, neonatal course, and risk of COVID-19 infection have been summarized. Summary of meta-analyses and systematic reviews (2022-2023) on the effect and adverse reaction of the COVID-19 vaccination is presented.

RESULTS: As a result of the research conducted, it was confirmed that in most pregnant women, no serious signs of the infection were observed, although isolated cases of death related to COVID-19 in pregnant women were reported. Several authors called attention to the more severe course of the infection in pregnant women with obesity. It seemed that no vertical transmission from mother to child was occurring. Nevertheless, the information was not clinching. The condition of the neonates born to mothers with COVID-19 was in most cases described as normal; however, some papers reported deaths of infected neonates.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to insufficient data, further research is necessary. Further studies and follow-up are recommended, which would make possible an assessment of remote effects of COVID-19 on pregnancy and vital parameters of the newborn.}, } @article {pmid37215236, year = {2023}, author = {SeyedAlinaghi, S and Bagheri, A and Razi, A and Mojdeganlou, P and Mojdeganlou, H and Afsahi, AM and Afzalian, A and Paranjkhoo, P and Shahidi, R and Mirzapour, P and Pashaei, Z and Habibi, MA and Shahbazi, P and Nooralioghli Parikhani, S and Farizani Gohari, NS and Popoola, Y and Mehraeen, E and Hackett, D}, title = {Late Complications of COVID-19; An Umbrella Review on Current Systematic Reviews.}, journal = {Archives of academic emergency medicine}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {e28}, pmid = {37215236}, issn = {2645-4904}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Several clinical manifestations have been discovered for COVID-19 since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, which can be classified into early, medium, and long-term complications. However, late complications can be present after recovery from acute COVID-19 illness. The present study aims to comprehensively review the available evidence of late complications related to COVID-19.

METHOD: A search was conducted, using keywords, through electronic databases, which included Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase up to August 29, 2022. Study selection was performed according to a strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist was followed, and studies were appraised using the National Institute of Health (NIH) quality assessment and risk of bias tool.

RESULTS: In total, 50 studies were included, and nine distinct COVID-19 late complication categories were identified. A review of these studies revealed that neurologic and psychiatric (n=41), respiratory (n=27), musculoskeletal and rheumatologic (n=22), cardiovascular (n=9), and hepatic and gastrointestinal (n=6) complications were the most prevalent complications of long COVID-19.

CONCLUSION: Almost all human body systems are affected by late complications of COVID-19 with different severity and prevalence. Fatigue and some other neuropsychiatric symptoms are the most common late complications among long COVID-19 patients. Respiratory symptoms including dyspnea (during exercise), cough, and chest tightness were the next most prevalent long-term complications of COVID-19. Since these complications are persistent and late, being aware of the signs and symptoms is essential for the healthcare providers and patients.}, } @article {pmid37215147, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, Y and Leng, P and Zhou, H}, title = {Global transmission of monkeypox virus-a potential threat under the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1174223}, pmid = {37215147}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {Monkeypox virus (MPXV) cases have increased dramatically worldwide since May 2022. The Atlanta Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Atlanta CDC) had reported a total of 85,922 cases as of February 20[th], 2023. During the COVID-19 pandemic, MPXV has emerged as a potential public threat. MPXV transmission and prevalence must be closely monitored. In this comprehensive review, we explained the basic characteristics and transmission routes of MPXV, individuals susceptible to it, as well as highlight the impact of the behavior of men who have sex with men (MSM) and airline traveling on recent outbreaks of MPXV. We also describe the clinical implications, the prevention of MPXV, and clinical measures of viral detection.}, } @article {pmid37214658, year = {2023}, author = {Donelle, L and Comer, L and Hiebert, B and Hall, J and Shelley, JJ and Smith, MJ and Kothari, A and Burkell, J and Stranges, S and Cooke, T and Shelley, JM and Gilliland, J and Ngole, M and Facca, D}, title = {Use of digital technologies for public health surveillance during the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review.}, journal = {Digital health}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {20552076231173220}, pmid = {37214658}, issn = {2055-2076}, abstract = {Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, a variety of digital technologies have been leveraged for public health surveillance worldwide. However, concerns remain around the rapid development and deployment of digital technologies, how these technologies have been used, and their efficacy in supporting public health goals. Following the five-stage scoping review framework, we conducted a scoping review of the peer-reviewed and grey literature to identify the types and nature of digital technologies used for surveillance during the COVID-19 pandemic and the success of these measures. We conducted a search of the peer-reviewed and grey literature published between 1 December 2019 and 31 December 2020 to provide a snapshot of questions, concerns, discussions, and findings emerging at this pivotal time. A total of 147 peer-reviewed and 79 grey literature publications reporting on digital technology use for surveillance across 90 countries and regions were retained for analysis. The most frequently used technologies included mobile phone devices and applications, location tracking technologies, drones, temperature scanning technologies, and wearable devices. The utility of digital technologies for public health surveillance was impacted by factors including uptake of digital technologies across targeted populations, technological capacity and errors, scope, validity and accuracy of data, guiding legal frameworks, and infrastructure to support technology use. Our findings raise important questions around the value of digital surveillance for public health and how to ensure successful use of technologies while mitigating potential harms not only in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also during other infectious disease outbreaks, epidemics, and pandemics.}, } @article {pmid37214631, year = {2023}, author = {SeyedAlinaghi, S and Afsahi, AM and Shahidi, R and Kianzad, S and Pashaei, Z and Mirahmad, M and Asili, P and Mojdeganlou, H and Razi, A and Mojdeganlou, P and Fard, IA and Mahdiabadi, S and Afzalian, A and Dashti, M and Ghasemzadeh, A and Parmoon, Z and Badri, H and Mehraeen, E and Hackett, D}, title = {Effects of Smoking on COVID-19 Management and Mortality: An Umbrella Review.}, journal = {Journal of smoking cessation}, volume = {2023}, number = {}, pages = {7656135}, pmid = {37214631}, issn = {1834-2612}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Smoking status appears to lead to a poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients. However, findings from the studies conducted on this topic have not been consistent, and further exploration is required.

METHODS: The objective of this umbrella review was to examine the effects of smoking on COVID-19 management and mortality. Online databases that included PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched using relevant keywords up to July 27, 2022. Articles were restricted to the English language, and the PRISMA protocol was followed.

RESULTS: A total of 27 systematic reviews, published from 2020 to 2022, were included. Individual studies included in the systematic reviews ranged from 8 to 186, with various population sizes. The consensus from the majority of systematic reviews was that COVID-19 smoker patients experience greater disease severity, disease progression, hospitalization rate, hospital admission duration, mechanical ventilation, ICU admission, and mortality rate.

CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 patients with a history of smoking (current and former) are vulnerable to adverse hospital outcomes and worse COVID-19 progression. Effective preventive and supportive approaches are required to decrease the risk of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in patients with a history of smoking.}, } @article {pmid37211427, year = {2023}, author = {Filotheidou, A and Theodosis-Nobelos, P and Triantis, C}, title = {Role of pharmaceutical care in therapeutic regimens within the community pharmacy.}, journal = {Ceska a Slovenska farmacie : casopis Ceske farmaceuticke spolecnosti a Slovenske farmaceuticke spolecnosti}, volume = {72}, number = {2}, pages = {70-78}, pmid = {37211427}, issn = {1210-7816}, mesh = {Humans ; *Pharmacies ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 ; Pandemics ; *Community Pharmacy Services ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions ; Pharmacists/psychology ; }, abstract = {The concept of pharmaceutical care (PC) has existed as a professional philosophy for more than 30 years. However, for a long period of time, little had been done for its integration into the regular practice of healthcare provision. The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting increase in patient influx in the community pharmacies (CP) encouraged the exploration and establishment of new healthcare services provided within the CP. Nevertheless, these services of PC are still novel, and more can be done to expand the community pharmacists' current role in primary healthcare. This can be achieved by improving and expanding the newly established services, all while incorporating new ones, for the benefit of public health and the reduction of avoidable healthcare expenditures. This article reviews information about the benefits of this service regarding patient health and the reduction of financial expenses pertinent to adverse drug events within the setting of the CP. Adverse drug events account for significant healthcare expenses and patient distress due to relevant symptoms, emergency doctor visits, and increased hospitalization rates. Several studies conducted internationally have investigated the positive impact of PC practiced by community pharmacists. In spite of results sometimes presenting a non-continuous pattern, PC applied under specific conditions has tangible positive outcomes. Congestive heart failure and type 2 diabetes mellitus patients presented fewer hospital admissions, better symptom control, and higher adherence in comparison to control groups, while a study on asthma patients revealed improved inhalation techniques. All intervention groups reported psychological improvement and a better understanding of their treatment. Special reference is made to the importance of this service for patients receiving anti-cancer treatment and how community pharmacists can have a crucial role in designing, monitoring, and re-designing these therapeutic schemes whose complexity and related adverse drug events negatively affect patient adherence. The role of community pharmacists was very important, especially for primary care, for both patients and healthcare systems during the pandemic, and it seems that it will remain decisive in the post-COVID era as well. The increased complexity of therapy and polypharmacy creates the need for organized, active participation of pharmacists in healthcare provision so that they can use their knowledge and skills under continuous cooperation with other healthcare professionals, thus providing coordinated services for the benefit of the patient.}, } @article {pmid35085475, year = {2023}, author = {Jia, L and Huffman, WH and Cusano, A and Trofa, DP and Li, X and Kelly, JD and Parisien, RL}, title = {The risk of COVID-19 transmission upon return to sport: a systematic review.}, journal = {The Physician and sportsmedicine}, volume = {51}, number = {3}, pages = {203-209}, doi = {10.1080/00913847.2022.2035197}, pmid = {35085475}, issn = {2326-3660}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To evaluate COVID-19 transmission rates in athletes upon return to sport (RTS), as well as the effectiveness of preventive and surveillance measures associated with RTS.

METHODS: In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify all articles reporting on RTS during COVID-19. Articles were excluded on the basis of the following criteria: (1) non-English text, (2) only abstract available, (3) population not athlete-specific, (4) outcome not RTS-specific, (5) COVID-19 transmission data not quantified, (6) editorial, or (7) review article or meta-analysis. Study characteristics; athlete demographics; COVID-19 preventive, surveillance, and diagnostic measures; COVID-19 transmission outcomes; and RTS recommendations were collected from each included article and analyzed.

RESULTS: 10 studies were included in the final analysis, comprising over 97,000 athletes across a wide variety of sports, levels of play, and RTS settings. Of the 10 studies, eight identified low transmission rates and considered RTS to be safe/low risk. Overall, COVID-19 transmission rates were higher in athletes than in contacts, and more prevalent in the greater community than in athletes specifically. The risk of COVID-19 did not appear to be necessarily higher for athletes who played high-contact team sports, shared common facilities, or lived in communities impacted by high transmission rates, provided that rigorous COVID-19 safety and testing protocols were implemented and followed. Mask wearing and physical distancing during active play presented the greatest challenge to athletes.

CONCLUSION: Rigorous preventive and surveillance measures can mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission in athletes upon RTS. However, the heterogeneity of RTS playing conditions, availability of COVID-19 resources, rise of unforeseen novel variants, and undetermined long-term impact of vaccination on athletes remain a challenge to safe and effective RTS in the era of COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37214621, year = {2023}, author = {Hanson, HA and Kim, E and Badowski, ME}, title = {A Systematic Review: Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on Morbidity, Mortality, and Viral Suppression in Patients Living With HIV.}, journal = {SN comprehensive clinical medicine}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, pages = {144}, doi = {10.1007/s42399-023-01480-6}, pmid = {37214621}, issn = {2523-8973}, abstract = {People living with HIV (PLWH) are a vulnerable patient population due to their immunosuppressed state and the risks associated with interruptions in treatment. After the unprecedented start of the COVID-19 pandemic, PLWH experienced complications involving interruptions in care and treatment, potentially leading to adverse outcomes including reduced rates of viral suppression, increased hospitalizations, and death. A systematic, comprehensive literature search was completed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and bibliography review to identify relevant articles related to clinical outcomes of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 co-infection. Related keywords were used as search terms: "COVID", "SARS-CoV-2", "coronavirus", "HIV", "viral load", "viral suppression", and "disease severity". Of the 492 results, 7 systematic reviews and 14 individual studies were included in the current review of literature regarding COVID-19-related outcomes in PLWH. In total, 2 systematic reviews and 8 individual studies found an increased rate of mortality, hospitalizations, and/or severe COVID-19 outcomes in PLWH co-infected with SARS-CoV-2, whereas the other 5 systematic reviews and 6 individual studies concluded PLWH were not at an increased risk compared to patients without HIV. Regarding viral suppression, 4 of 5 studies found viral suppression in PLWH was not impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The current literature suggests that the morbidity and mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in PLWH is complex and involves multiple factors including age and comorbid conditions; however, there is no clear consensus thus far. In contrast, literature consistently demonstrates that viral suppression during the pandemic has remained unchanged, potentially due to increased implementation of telemedicine and multicomponent interventions deployed.}, } @article {pmid37214595, year = {2023}, author = {Hung, J}, title = {Is psychologically vulnerable rural-to-urban migrants' mental health further at stake under China's tightened COVID-19 measures: how should the government respond?.}, journal = {Frontiers in sociology}, volume = {8}, number = {}, pages = {1095810}, doi = {10.3389/fsoc.2023.1095810}, pmid = {37214595}, issn = {2297-7775}, abstract = {There is a well-documented scholarly discourse on how the COVID-19 outbreak adversely affects the mental health of Chinese nationals. However, there is little evidence revealing how the public health crisis negatively influenced the mental health of rural-to-urban migrants in China. The relevant literature argues that rural-to-urban migrant workers and their dependents have been experiencing discrimination, exclusion, and stigmatization in the urban labor market and social space, thereby jeopardizing their mental health to a large extent. However, whether the COVID-19 outbreak and its associated consequences further compounded rural-to-urban migrant workers' mental health has rarely been discussed. Since 2010, the Chinese government has emphasized the importance of promoting positive mental health. Without identifying how COVID-19 specifically imposed mental health challenges on rural-to-urban migrant cohorts, Chinese policymakers cannot effectively and efficiently address the dilemmas faced by such vulnerable groups. The significant rural-to-urban migrant population (i.e. 291 million), alongside their disposition to encounter social and psychological challenges, prompts the urgency to develop this narrative essay to examine whether their mental health burdens worsened during the pandemic. The author also discusses remedies for the worsened mental issues faced by migrant cohorts, and recommends policies that local Chinese governments should adopt to mitigate the mental health burdens encountered by rural-to-urban migrants.}, } @article {pmid37214455, year = {2023}, author = {Globenko, AA and Kuzin, GV and Rydlovskaya, AV and Isaeva, EI and Vetrova, EN and Pritchina, TN and Baranova, A and Nebolsin, VE}, title = {Curtailing virus-induced inflammation in respiratory infections: emerging strategies for therapeutic interventions.}, journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1087850}, doi = {10.3389/fphar.2023.1087850}, pmid = {37214455}, issn = {1663-9812}, abstract = {Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are the most common illnesses worldwide. In some instances, mild cases of ARVI progress to hyperinflammatory responses, which are damaging to pulmonary tissue and requiring intensive care. Here we summarize available information on preclinical and clinical effects of XC221GI (1-[2-(1-methyl imidazole-4-yl)-ethyl]perhydroazin-2,6-dione), an oral drug with a favorable safety profile that has been tested in animal models of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, highly pathogenic coronavirus strains and other acute viral upper respiratory infections. XC221GI is capable of controlling IFN-gamma-driven inflammation as it is evident from the suppression of the production of soluble cytokines and chemokines, including IL-6, IL-8, CXCL10, CXCL9 and CXCL11 as well as a decrease in migration of neutrophils into the pulmonary tissue. An excellent safety profile of XC221GI, which is not metabolized by the liver, and its significant anti-inflammatory effects indicate utility of this compound in abating conversion of ambulatory cases of respiratory infections into the cases with aggravated presentation that require hospitalization. This drug is especially useful when rapid molecular assays determining viral species are impractical, or when direct antiviral drugs are not available. Moreover, XC221GI may be combined with direct antiviral drugs to enhance their therapeutic effects.}, } @article {pmid37214443, year = {2023}, author = {Yu, Y and Fang, B and Yang, XD and Zheng, Y}, title = {One stone two birds: anti-inflammatory bronchodilators as a potential pharmacological strategy for COVID-19.}, journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1185076}, doi = {10.3389/fphar.2023.1185076}, pmid = {37214443}, issn = {1663-9812}, abstract = {The ongoing Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has imposed a huge threat to public health across the world. While vaccinations are essential for reducing virus transmission and attenuating disease severity, the nature of high mutation rate of SARS-CoV-2 renders vaccines less effective, urging quick development of effective therapies for COVID-19 disease. However, developing novel drugs remains extremely challenging due to the lengthy process and high cost. Alternatively, repurposing of existing drugs on the market represents a rapid and safe strategy for combating COVID-19 pandemic. Bronchodilators are first line drugs for inflammatory lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Compared to other anti-inflammatory drugs repurposed for COVID-19, bronchodilators are unique in that they have both anti-inflammatory and bronchodilating properties. Whether the dual properties of bronchodilators empower them greater potential to be repurposed for COVID-19 is worth exploring. In fact, clinical and preclinical studies have recently emerged to investigate the benefits of bronchodilators such assalbutamol, formoterol and theophylline in treating COVID-19, and many of them have shown encouraging efficacy on attenuating disease severity of pneumonia and other associated symptoms. To comprehensively understand the latest progress on COVID-19 intervention with bronchodilators, this review will summarize recent findings in this area and highlight the promising clinical benefits and possible adverse effects of bronchodilators as therapeutic options for COVID-19 with a focus on β2 receptor agonists, anticholinergic drugs and theophylline.}, } @article {pmid37214290, year = {2023}, author = {Fang, L and Yang, L and Han, M and Xu, H and Ding, W and Dong, X}, title = {CRISPR-cas technology: A key approach for SARS-CoV-2 detection.}, journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1158672}, doi = {10.3389/fbioe.2023.1158672}, pmid = {37214290}, issn = {2296-4185}, abstract = {The CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Spaced Short Palindromic Repeats) system was first discovered in prokaryotes as a unique immune mechanism to clear foreign nucleic acids. It has been rapidly and extensively used in basic and applied research owing to its strong ability of gene editing, regulation and detection in eukaryotes. Hererin in this article, we reviewed the biology, mechanisms and relevance of CRISPR-Cas technology and its applications in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) diagnosis. CRISPR-Cas nucleic acid detection tools include CRISPR-Cas9, CRISPR-Cas12, CRISPR-Cas13, CRISPR-Cas14, CRISPR nucleic acid amplification detection technology, and CRISPR colorimetric readout detection system. The above CRISPR technologies have been applied to the nucleic acid detection, including SARS-CoV-2 detection. Common nucleic acid detection based on CRISPR derivation technology include SHERLOCK, DETECTR, and STOPCovid. CRISPR-Cas biosensing technology has been widely applied to point-of-care testing (POCT) by targeting recognition of both DNA molecules and RNA Molecules.}, } @article {pmid37214146, year = {2023}, author = {Yousefian, M and Khadivi, A}, title = {Occurrence of erythema multiforme following COVID-19 vaccination: a review.}, journal = {Clinical and experimental vaccine research}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {87-96}, doi = {10.7774/cevr.2023.12.2.87}, pmid = {37214146}, issn = {2287-3651}, abstract = {The fast development of vaccines against the novel coronavirus disease is among the most critical steps taken to control this potentially fatal viral disease. Like other vaccines, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines can also cause unwanted reactions. Erythema multiforme (EM) is among the oral mucocutaneous side effects of COVID-19 vaccines. This study aimed to comprehensively review the reported cases of EM since the global onset of COVID-19 vaccination. Data from 31 relevant studies regarding the type and dose of COVID-19 vaccines administered, time of initiation of symptoms, age, and gender of patients, site of involvement, patients' medical history, and treatment options were extracted. In total, 90 patients were identified with EM as a side effect of COVID-19 vaccination across studies. EM had the highest frequency after receiving the first dose of mRNA vaccines in older individuals. The first symptoms of EM appeared in less than 3 days in 45% and after 3 days in 55% of patients. EM is not a common side effect of COVID-19 vaccination, and fear of its occurrence should not impede vaccination.}, } @article {pmid37213963, year = {2023}, author = {Shawwa, L}, title = {The Use of Telemedicine in Medical Education and Patient Care.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37766}, pmid = {37213963}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated and expanded the adoption of telemedicine globally. This allowed telemedicine to engage medical students in patient care and ensured continuity of care for vulnerable patients. In this review, the history of telemedicine and some of its applications in medical education were reviewed. Furthermore, we also shed light on how to incorporate telemedicine into several curricula and the strategies used to include it. The article also explored how to evaluate telemedicine and the major facilitators and barriers any medical and educational institution must address when using telemedicine. At the end of the review, we explored the future promises telemedicine has for medical education.}, } @article {pmid37213710, year = {2023}, author = {Ghaderi, S and Olfati, M and Ghaderi, M and Hadizadeh, H and Yazdanpanah, G and Khodadadi, Z and Karami, A and Papi, Z and Abdi, N and Sharif Jalali, SS and Khatyal, R and Banisharif, S and Bahari, F and Zarasvandnia, M and Mohammadi, S and Mohammadi, M}, title = {Neurological manifestation in COVID-19 disease with neuroimaging studies.}, journal = {American journal of neurodegenerative disease}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {42-84}, pmid = {37213710}, issn = {2165-591X}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain or spine examines the findings as well as the time interval between the onset of symptoms and other adverse effects in coronavirus disease that first appeared in 2019 (COVID-19) patients. The goal of this study is to look at studies that use neuroimaging to look at neurological and neuroradiological symptoms in COVID-19 patients.

METHODS: We try to put together all of the research on how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes neurological symptoms and cognitive-behavioral changes and give a full picture.

RESULTS: We have categorized neuroimaging findings into subtitles such as: headache and dizziness; cerebrovascular complications after stroke; Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH); Cerebral Microbleeds (CMBs); encephalopathy; meningitis; encephalitis and myelitis; altered mental status (AMS) and delirium; seizure; neuropsychiatric symptoms; Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) and its variants; smell and taste disorders; peripheral neuropathy; Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI); and myopathy and myositis.

CONCLUSION: In this review study, we talked about some MRI findings that show how COVID-19 affects the nervous system based on what we found.}, } @article {pmid37213566, year = {2023}, author = {Ranjan, S and Vashishth, K and Sak, K and Tuli, HS}, title = {The Emergence of Mpox: Epidemiology and Current Therapeutic Options.}, journal = {Current pharmacology reports}, volume = {9}, number = {3}, pages = {144-153}, pmid = {37213566}, issn = {2198-641X}, abstract = {The world recently witnessed the emergence of new epidemic outbreaks like COVID-19 and mpox. The 2022 outbreak of mpox amid COVID-19 presents an intricate situation and requires strategies to combat the status quo. Some of the challenges to controlling an epidemic include present knowledge of the disease, available treatment options, appropriate health infrastructures facilities, current scientific methods, operations concepts, availability of technical staff, financial funds, and lastly international policies to control an epidemic state. These insufficiencies often hinder the control of disease spread and jeopardize the health of countless people. Also, disease outbreaks often put a huge burden on the developing economies. These countries are the worst affected and are immensely dependent on assistance provided from the larger economies to control such outbreaks. The first case of mpox was reported in the 1970s and several outbreaks were detected thereafter in the endemic areas eventually leading to the recent outbreak. Approximately, more than 80,000 individuals were infected, and 110 countries were affected by this outbreak. Yet, no definite vaccines and drugs are available to date. The lack of human clinical trials affected thousands of individuals in availing definite disease management. This paper focuses on the epidemiology of mpox, scientific concepts, and treatment options including future treatment modalities for mpox.}, } @article {pmid37213401, year = {2023}, author = {Chaudhry, H and Sohal, A and Iqbal, H and Roytman, M}, title = {Alcohol-related hepatitis: A review article.}, journal = {World journal of gastroenterology}, volume = {29}, number = {17}, pages = {2551-2570}, pmid = {37213401}, issn = {2219-2840}, abstract = {Alcohol-related hepatitis (ARH) is a unique type of alcohol-associated liver disease characterized by acute liver inflammation caused by significant alcohol use. It ranges in severity from mild to severe and carries significant morbidity and mortality. The refinement of scoring systems has enhanced prognostication and guidance of clinical decision-making in the treatment of this complex disease. Although treatment focuses on supportive care, steroids have shown benefit in select circumstances. There has been a recent interest in this disease process, as coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic led to substantial rise in cases. Although much is known regarding the pathogenesis, prognosis remains grim due to limited treatment options. This article summarizes the epidemiology, genetics, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of ARH.}, } @article {pmid37213314, year = {2023}, author = {Broughton, N and Comer, K and Casey-Gillman, O and Moore, L and Antoniou, S and Patel, R and Fhadil, S and Wright, P and Ozkor, M and Guttmann, O and Baumbach, A and Wragg, A and Jain, AJ and Choudry, F and Mathur, A and Rathod, KS and Jones, DA}, title = {An exploration of the early discharge approach for low-risk STEMI patients following primary percutaneous coronary intervention.}, journal = {American journal of cardiovascular disease}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {32-42}, pmid = {37213314}, issn = {2160-200X}, abstract = {Recently, there has been growing interest in the early discharge strategy for low-risk patients who have undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to treat ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). So far findings have suggested there are multiple advantages of shorter hospital stays, including that it could be a safe way to be more cost- and resource-efficient, reduce cases of hospital-acquired infection and boost patient satisfaction. However, there are remaining concerns surrounding safety, patient education, adequate follow-up and the generalisability of the findings from current studies which are mostly small-scale. By assessing the current research, we describe the advantages, disadvantages and challenges of early hospital discharge for STEMI and discuss the factors that determine if a patient can be considered low risk. If it is feasible to safely employ a strategy like this, the implications for healthcare systems worldwide could be extremely beneficial, particularly in lower-income economies and when we consider the detrimental impacts of the recent COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare systems.}, } @article {pmid37213312, year = {2023}, author = {Finsterer, J}, title = {Neurological implications of cardiac compromise in COVID-19.}, journal = {American journal of cardiovascular disease}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {43-51}, pmid = {37213312}, issn = {2160-200X}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: There is increasing evidence that particularly in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) the heart can be primarily or secondarily compromised. Neurological disease as a complication of SARS-CoV-2 associated cardiac disease is conceivable. This review aims at summarising and discussing previous and recent advances in the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of cardiac complications and its implications on the brain of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients.

METHOD: Literature review using appropriate search terms and applying inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS: Cardiac complications in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients not only include myocardial injury, myocarditis, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTS), coagulation abnormalities, heart failure, cardiac arrest, arrhythmias, acute myocardial infarction, or cardiogenic shock, but a number of other more rarely occurring cardiac abnormalities. Additionally considered should be endocarditis due to superinfection, viral or bacterial pericarditis, aortic dissection, pulmonary embolism from the right atrium, ventricle or outflow tract, and cardiac autonomic denervation. Cardiac damage due to side effects from the anti-COVID medication should not be neglected. Several of these conditions may be complicated by ischemic stroke, intracerebral bleeding, or dissection of cerebral arteries.

CONCLUSION: The heart can be definitively affected in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Heart disease in COVID-19 may be complicated by stroke, intracerebral bleeding, or dissection of cerebral arteries. Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 associated cardiac disease is not at variance from that of cardiac disease without this infection.}, } @article {pmid37213267, year = {2023}, author = {Wiltz, P}, title = {Identifying and Managing Vector-Borne Diseases in Migrants and Recent Travelers in the Emergency Department.}, journal = {Current emergency and hospital medicine reports}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {58-65}, pmid = {37213267}, issn = {2167-4884}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Recognition and treatment of neglected tropical and vector-borne diseases is paramount as travel and immigration resume after a brief lull during the COVID-19 pandemic. These patients often present initially to the emergency department, and increasing physician knowledge of symptoms and treatment can reduce morbidity and mortality. This paper aims to summarize typical presentations of common tropical diseases, both neglected and vector borne, and provide the emergency physician with a diagnostic pathway based on current recommendations.

RECENT FINDINGS: Co-circulation of ZIKV, CHIKV, and DENV is increasingly common in many countries throughout Caribbean and the Americas, requiring that patients be tested for each virus upon presentation. Dengvaxia is now approved as a vaccine against dengue in pediatric and young adult patients. A malaria vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, is currently in phase 3 trials and has been approved as a short-term vaccine by WHO for children in regions with high transmission risk after showing a 30% reduction in severe malaria. Mayaro is currently a neglected arbovirus that presents similarly to Chikungunya and is continuing to spread throughout the Americas at a rapid rate, gaining more attention after the 2016 Zika outbreak.

SUMMARY: Emergency physicians should consider internationally acquired illnesses to appropriately identify which patients require admission among well-appearing febrile immigrants or recent travelers presenting to the emergency department. Identifying symptomatology and understanding the appropriate workup and treatment for tropically acquired diseases will assist in recognizing severe complications with prompt treatment.}, } @article {pmid37213266, year = {2023}, author = {Weiland, AS}, title = {Recent Advances in Imported Malaria Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management.}, journal = {Current emergency and hospital medicine reports}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {49-57}, pmid = {37213266}, issn = {2167-4884}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Malaria is an important human parasitic disease affecting the population of tropical, subtropical regions as well as travelers to these areas.The purpose of this article is to provide clinicians practicing in non-endemic areas with a comprehensive overview of the recent data on microbiologic and pathophysiologic features of five Plasmodium parasites, clinical presentation of uncomplicated and severe cases, modern diagnostic methods, and treatment of malaria.

RECENT FINDINGS: Employment of robust surveillance programs, rapid diagnostic tests, highly active artemisinin-based therapy, and the first malaria vaccine have led to decline in malaria incidence; however, emerging drug resistance, disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and other socio-economic factors have stalled the progress.

SUMMARY: Clinicians practicing in non-endemic areas such as the United States should consider a diagnosis of malaria in returning travelers presenting with fever, utilize rapid diagnostic tests if available at their practice locations in addition to microscopy, and timely initiate guideline-directed management as delays in treatment can lead to poor clinical outcomes.}, } @article {pmid37212652, year = {2023}, author = {Zhao, DY and Hu, SQ and Hu, FH and Du, W and Tang, W and Zhang, WQ and Chen, HL and Shen, WQ}, title = {Palliative care for cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative synthesis from 36 studies of 16 countries.}, journal = {Journal of clinical nursing}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/jocn.16742}, pmid = {37212652}, issn = {1365-2702}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 epidemic, palliative care has become even more indispensable for cancer patients.

AIM: To identify the changes in palliative care for cancer patients and improvements in palliative care quality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DESIGN: A systematic review and narrative synthesis was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science. An evaluation tool using mixed methods was used to assess the quality of the study. The main relevant themes identified were used to group qualitative and quantitative findings.

RESULTS: A total of 36 studies were identified, primarily from different countries, with a total of 14,427 patients, 238 caregivers and 354 health care providers. Cancer palliative care has been experiencing several difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased mortality and infection rates as well as delays in patient treatment that have resulted in poorer prognoses. Treatment providers are seeking solutions such as electronic management of patients and integration of resources to care for the mental health of patients and staff. Telemedicine plays an important role in many ways but cannot completely replace traditional treatment. Clinicians strive to meet patients' palliative care needs during special times and improve their quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS: Palliative care faces unique challenges during the COVID-19 epidemic. With adequate support to alleviate care-related challenges, patients in the home versus hospital setting will be able to receive better palliative care. In addition, this review highlights the importance of multiparty collaboration to achieve personal and societal benefits of palliative care.

No Patient or Public Contribution.}, } @article {pmid37212473, year = {2023}, author = {Molinar, C and Tannous, M and Meloni, D and Cavalli, R and Scomparin, A}, title = {Current Status and Trends in Nucleic Acids for Cancer Therapy: A Focus on Polysaccharide-Based Nanomedicines.}, journal = {Macromolecular bioscience}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e2300102}, doi = {10.1002/mabi.202300102}, pmid = {37212473}, issn = {1616-5195}, abstract = {The efficacious delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids to cancer still remains an open issue. Through the years, several strategies have been developed for the encapsulation of genetic molecules exploiting different materials, such as viral vectors, lipidic nanoparticles and polymeric nanoparticles. Indeed, the rapid approval by regulatory authorities and the wide use of lipid nanoparticles complexing the mRNA coding for the spark protein for COVID-19 vaccination paved the way for the initiation of several clinical trials exploiting lipid nanoparticles for cancer therapy. Nevertheless, polymers still represent a valuable alternative to lipid-based formulations, due to the low cost and the chemical flexibility that allows for the conjugation of targeting ligands. This review will analyze the status of the ongoing clinical trials for cancer therapy, including vaccination and immunotherapy approaches, exploiting polymeric materials. Among those nanosized carriers, sugar-based backbones are an interesting category. A cyclodextrin-based carrier (CALAA-01) was the first polymeric material to enter a clinical trial complexed with siRNA for cancer therapy, and chitosan is one of the most characterized non-viral vectors able to complex genetic material. Finally, we will discuss the recent advances in the use of sugar-based polymers (oligo- and polysaccharides) for complexation of nucleic acids in advanced preclinical stage. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.}, } @article {pmid37212261, year = {2023}, author = {Zhang, Y and Clarke, SP and Wu, H and Li, W and Zhou, C and Lin, K and Wang, J and Wang, J and Liang, Y and Wang, X and Wang, L}, title = {A comprehensive overview on the transmission, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS-CoV-2.}, journal = {Journal of medical virology}, volume = {95}, number = {5}, pages = {e28776}, doi = {10.1002/jmv.28776}, pmid = {37212261}, issn = {1096-9071}, abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a single positive-strand RNA virus that is responsible for the current pandemic that the world has been facing since 2019. The primary route of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is through respiratory tract transmission. However, other transmission routes such as fecal-oral, vertical transmission, and aerosol-eye also exist. In addition, it has been found that the pathogenesis of this virus involves the binding of the virus's S protein to its host cell surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, which results in the subsequent membrane fusion that is required for SARS-CoV-2 to replicate and complete its entire life. The clinical symptoms of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 can range from asymptomatic to severe. The most common symptoms seen include fever, dry cough, and fatigue. Once these symptoms are observed, a nucleic acid test is done using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. This currently serves as the main confirmatory tool for COVID-19. Despite the fact that no cure has been found for SARS-CoV-2, prevention methods such as vaccines, specific facial mask, and social distancing have proven to be quite effective. It is imperative to have a complete understanding of the transmission and pathogenesis of this virus. To effectively develop new drugs as well as diagnostic tools, more knowledge about this virus would be needed.}, } @article {pmid37212186, year = {2023}, author = {Kashyap, VH and Mishra, A and Bordoloi, S and Varma, A and Joshi, NC}, title = {Exploring the intersection of Aspergillus fumigatus biofilms, infections, immune response and antifungal resistance.}, journal = {Mycoses}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/myc.13619}, pmid = {37212186}, issn = {1439-0507}, abstract = {Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic pathogen that primarily affects the lungs and frequently elicits an allergic immune response in human hosts via inhalation of its airborne asexual spores (conidia). In immunocompromised individuals, the conidia of this fungus can germinate in the lung and result in severe systemic infections characterised by widespread tissue and organ damage. Conversely, in healthy hosts, the innate immune system is instrumental in eliminating the conidia and preventing disease progression. As with numerous other pathogenic fungi, A. fumigatus possesses a set of virulence factors that facilitate its infective mechanism and the circumvention of immune defences in susceptible hosts. The intrinsic capacity of A. fumigatus to form complex 3D-structured biofilms, both on biotic and abiotic surfaces, represents a key determinant of its evasion of the host immune system and resistance to antifungal drugs. This review delineates the pivotal role of A. fumigatus biofilm structure and function as a significant virulence factor in pathogenic infections, such as aspergilloma and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Additionally, we discuss the importance for the development of novel antifungal drugs as drug-resistant strains continue to evolve. Furthermore, co-infections of A. fumigatus with other nosocomial pathogens have a substantial impact on patient's health outcomes. In this context, we provide a brief overview of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), a recently documented condition that has gained attention due to its associated high degree of severity.}, } @article {pmid37212129, year = {2023}, author = {Ray, A and Winter, KAK and Naik, DSL and Okorie, C}, title = {Prognostic Significance of the Coagulation and Complement Systems in Critical COVID-19 Infection.}, journal = {Prague medical report}, volume = {124}, number = {2}, pages = {77-93}, doi = {10.14712/23362936.2023.7}, pmid = {37212129}, issn = {1214-6994}, abstract = {Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19 disease) can cause a wide range of clinical situations - from an asymptomatic state to fatal outcomes. In cases of serious clinical manifestations, the underlying mechanisms involve a number of immune cells and stromal cells as well as their products such as pro-inflammatory interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha that ultimately cause the cytokine storm. The situation of overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines is somewhat similar to, though in a mild form, health conditions in obesity and related metabolic disorders like type-2 diabetes, which are also considered important risk factors for severe illness in COVID-19. Interestingly, neutrophils perhaps play a significant role in this pathogenesis. On the other hand, it is thought that COVID-19-related critical illness is associated with pathological hyperactivity of the complement system and coagulopathy. Although the precise molecular interactions between the complement and coagulation systems are not clear, we observe an intimate cross-talk between these two systems in critically ill COVID-19 patients. It is believed that both of these biological systems are connected with the cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 disease and actively participate in this vicious cycle. In order to hinder the pathological progression of COVID-19, a number of anticoagulation agents and complement inhibitors have been used with varying success. Among these drugs, low molecular weight heparin enoxaparin, factor Xa inhibitor apixaban, and complement C5 inhibitor eculizumab have been commonly used in patients with COVID-19. Our overall experience might help us in the future to tackle any such conditions.}, } @article {pmid37211301, year = {2023}, author = {Alhallak, I and Paydak, H and Mehta, JL}, title = {Prior Statin vs In-Hospital Statin Usage in Severe COVID-19: Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Current problems in cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101810}, doi = {10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.101810}, pmid = {37211301}, issn = {1535-6280}, abstract = {Studies have shown that statins can decrease COVID-19 mortality in hospitalized patients. This paper evaluates these studies and reviews the possible mechanism of how statins modulate COVID-19 severity. Meta-analysis of 31 retrospective studies demonstrated a reduction in mortality rate among statin users (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.56-0.86, p =0.0008) (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.72-0.95, p =0.0078). Meta-analysis of 8 randomized control studies demonstrated a nonsignificant reduction in mortality (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.69-1.18, p =0.461), including four studies with medications other than statins, and four studies with only statins (OR 0.88, 95% CI 95% CI 0.64-1.21, p =0.423). Prolonged statin usage decreases the extracellular localization of ACE2, along with statins' immunomodulating effects and reduction of oxidative stress, decreases COVID-19 mortality. Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 should continue statin treatment if previously prescribed, and patients should not be started on statins, as they do not seem to provide any mortality benefit.}, } @article {pmid37210882, year = {2023}, author = {Shirley, JD and Bennett, SA and Binnicker, MJ}, title = {Current regulatory landscape for viral point-of-care testing in the United States.}, journal = {Journal of clinical virology : the official publication of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology}, volume = {164}, number = {}, pages = {105492}, doi = {10.1016/j.jcv.2023.105492}, pmid = {37210882}, issn = {1873-5967}, abstract = {Historically, the diagnosis of viral infections has been accomplished using a combination of laboratory-based methods, including culture, serology, antigen-based tests, and molecular (e.g., real-time PCR) assays. Although these methods provide an accurate way to detect viral pathogens, testing in a centralized laboratory may delay results, which could impact patient diagnosis and management. Point-of-care tests, including antigen- and molecular-based assays, have been developed to assist with the timely diagnosis of several viral infections, such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and COVID-19. Despite the ability of point-of-care tests to provide rapid results (i.e., <30 min), there are issues to consider prior to their routine use, including test performance and specific regulatory requirements. This review will provide a summary of the regulatory landscape of point-of-care tests for viral infections in the United States, and address important considerations such as site certification, training and inspection readiness.}, } @article {pmid37210848, year = {2023}, author = {Bandara, S and Oishi, W and Kadoya, SS and Sano, D}, title = {Decay rate estimation of respiratory viruses in aerosols and on surfaces under different environmental conditions.}, journal = {International journal of hygiene and environmental health}, volume = {251}, number = {}, pages = {114187}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114187}, pmid = {37210848}, issn = {1618-131X}, abstract = {Majority of the viral outbreaks are super-spreading events established within 2-10 h, dependent on a critical time interval for successful transmission between humans, which is governed by the decay rates of viruses. To evaluate the decay rates of respiratory viruses over a short span, we calculated their decay rate values for various surfaces and aerosols. We applied Bayesian regression and ridge regression and determined the best estimation for respiratory viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), influenza viruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV); the decay rate values in aerosols for these viruses were 4.83 ± 5.70, 0.40 ± 0.24, 0.11 ± 0.04, 2.43 ± 5.94, and 1.00 ± 0.50 h[-1], respectively. The highest decay rate values for each virus type differed according to the surface type. According to the model performance criteria, the Bayesian regression model was better for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses, whereas ridge regression was better for SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. A simulation using a better estimation will help us find effective non-pharmaceutical interventions to control virus transmissions.}, } @article {pmid37210279, year = {2023}, author = {Attal, N and Bouhassira, D and Colvin, L}, title = {Advances and challenges in neuropathic pain: a narrative review and future directions.}, journal = {British journal of anaesthesia}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.bja.2023.04.021}, pmid = {37210279}, issn = {1471-6771}, abstract = {Over the past few decades, substantial advances have been made in neuropathic pain clinical research. An updated definition and classification have been agreed. Validated questionnaires have improved the detection and assessment of acute and chronic neuropathic pain; and newer neuropathic pain syndromes associated with COVID-19 have been described. The management of neuropathic pain has moved from empirical to evidence-based medicine. However, appropriately targeting current medications and the successful clinical development of drugs acting on new targets remain challenging. Innovative approaches to improving therapeutic strategies are required. These mainly encompass rational combination therapy, drug repurposing, non-pharmacological approaches (such as neurostimulation techniques), and personalised therapeutic management. This narrative review reports historical and current perspectives regarding the definitions, classification, assessment, and management of neuropathic pain and explores potential avenues for future research.}, } @article {pmid37210240, year = {2023}, author = {Rao, D and Mercy, M and McAtee, C and Ford, JH and Shiyanbola, OO}, title = {A scoping literature review of pharmacy-based opioid misuse screening and brief interventions.}, journal = {Research in social & administrative pharmacy : RSAP}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37210240}, issn = {1934-8150}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although prescription opioid dispensing rates have continued to decrease, overdose deaths involving prescription opioids have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Screening and brief interventions (SBI) are an effective prevention strategy to identify and address opioid misuse and safety risks. Emerging literature on pharmacy-based SBI needs to be systematically appraised to develop robust interventions.

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to conduct a scoping review of the literature regarding pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI to identify relevant literature that explore the topic, evaluate the patient-centeredness of included studies, and explore the use of dissemination and implementation science in the literature.

METHODS: The review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses -Scoping reviews (PRISMA-Sc) guidelines. We searched PubMed, CINHAL, PsychInfo, and Scopus for studies regarding pharmacy-based SBI, published in the last 20 years. We also conducted a separate grey literature search. Two of three total reviewers screened each abstract individually and identified eligible full-texts for inclusion. We critically appraised quality of included studies and qualitatively synthesized the relevant information.

RESULTS: The search resulted in 21 studies (categorized as intervention, descriptive, and observational research) and 3 grey literature reports. Of the recently published 21 studies, 11 were observational research, with six interventions in the pilot stages. Screening tools varied but naloxone was the brief intervention in 15 of the 24 results. Only eight studies had high validity, reliability, and applicability and only five were patient-centered. Implementation science principles were addressed in eight studies (mainly interventions). Overall, the findings suggest high potential for evidence-based SBI to be successful.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the review suggested a strong lack of a patient-centered and implementation science-focused approach to designing pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI. Findings suggest that a patient-centered, implementation focused approach is needed for effective and sustained pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI.}, } @article {pmid37210239, year = {2023}, author = {Urslak, R and Evans, C and Nakhla, N and Marrie, RA and McConnell, BM and Maxwell, CJ}, title = {Peripartum mental health and the role of the pharmacist: A scoping review.}, journal = {Research in social & administrative pharmacy : RSAP}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37210239}, issn = {1934-8150}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global prevalence of peripartum mental illness is 20%, though estimates have increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chronic illnesses affect one in five pregnancies and may be associated with higher rates of peripartum mental illness. Though pharmacists are well-positioned to facilitate appropriate and timely care of co-occurring mental and physical health conditions during this period, little is understood regarding their potential roles.

OBJECTIVES: To understand the current evidence examining the role of pharmacists to improve the outcomes of women with peripartum mental illness, with and without chronic illness.

METHODS: A scoping review was performed with assistance from an interdisciplinary team following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework. MEDLINE, Embase, PsychNet and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts databases were searched. English-language articles (published up to May 30, 2022) were screened and assessed for eligibility, and data were charted to collate results, by dual independent reviewers.

RESULTS: The search strategy produced 922 articles. After screening, 12 articles were included (5 narrative reviews, 7 primary research). There was limited discussion or empirical data regarding specific interventions (screening, counseling), opportunities (accessibility, managing stigma, forming trusting relationships and building rapport with patients) or barriers (lack of privacy, time constraints, adequate remuneration, training) associated with an expanded role of pharmacists in peripartum mental health care. The clinical complexity arising from co-occurring mental health and chronic illnesses was not explored, other than a small pilot study involving pharmacists screening for depression among pregnant women with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS: This review highlights the limited evidence available on the explicit role of pharmacists in supporting women with peripartum mental illness, including those with comorbidity. More research, including pharmacists as study participants, is required to fully understand the potential roles, barriers, and facilitators of integrating pharmacists into peripartum mental healthcare to improve the outcomes of women in the peripartum period.}, } @article {pmid37209927, year = {2023}, author = {Meller, S and Caraguel, C and Twele, F and Charalambous, M and Schoneberg, C and Chaber, AL and Desquilbet, L and Grandjean, D and Mardones, FO and Kreienbrock, L and de la Rocque, S and Volk, HA}, title = {Canine Olfactory Detection of SARS-CoV-2-Infected Humans - a Systematic Review.}, journal = {Annals of epidemiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37209927}, issn = {1873-2585}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) developed into a pandemic within months. SARS-CoV-2 testing measures and vaccines became quickly accessible. However, due to pre- or asymptomatic transmission, effective disease control remains challenging. To complement conventional testing methods, scientists around the world have investigated dogs' olfactory capability for true real-time detection. Several diseases are known to produce specific scents in affected individuals, excreted as volatile organic compounds, which can be easily detected by dogs within seconds. This systematic review evaluates the current evidence for using dogs' olfactory system as a reliable COVID-19-screening tool. Two independent procedures for study quality assessment were used: the QUADAS-2 tool for the evaluation of laboratory tests' diagnostic accuracy, designed for systematic reviews, and a second system for the general evaluation of canine scent detection studies, adapted with a focus on medical scent detection. Twenty-seven studies from thirteen countries were evaluated. Particular attention was paid to potential confounding factors, e.g., study design, patient/sample selection, dog characteristics, training protocols, and sample types/treatment. These analysis systems revealed that respectively four and six studies had low risk of bias and high quality. The four QUADAS-2 non-biased studies resulted in sensitivity and specificity ranges of 81-97% and 91-100%, whereas the six high quality studies according to the general evaluation system revealed sensitivity and specificity ranges of 82-97% and 83-100%, respectively. The other studies contained high risk of bias, concerns about the methodological applicability and/or quality concerns. Standardization and certification procedures as used for canine explosives detection should be established for medical scent detection dogs in order to use their undoubtful potential in an optimal and structured way. '.}, } @article {pmid37209804, year = {2023}, author = {Desai, R and Mondal, A and Prasad, A and Vyas, A and Jain, A and Rupareliya, C and Shah, M and Paul, T and Kumar, G and Sachdeva, R}, title = {Concurrent Cardio-Cerebral Infarctions In COVID-19: A Systematic Review of Published Case Reports/Series.}, journal = {Current problems in cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101814}, pmid = {37209804}, issn = {1535-6280}, abstract = {Twelve CCI patients were studied with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection. The majority of these patients were males (83.3%) with a median age of 55 years from three geographical locations, constituting the Middle East (7), Spain (3), and the USA (1). In 6 patients, IgG/IgM was positive for COVID-19, 4 with high pre-test probability and 2 with positive RT-PCR. Type 2 DM, hyperlipidemia, and smoking were the primary risk factors. Right-sided neurological impairments and verbal impairment were the most common symptoms. Our analysis found 8 (66%) synchronous occurrences. In 58.3% of cases, neuroimaging showed left Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) infarct and 33.3% right. Carotid artery thrombosis (16.6%), tandem occlusion (8.3%), and carotid stenosis (1%) were also reported in imaging. Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and anticoagulants were conservative therapies (10). Two AMI patients had aspiration thrombectomy, while three AIS patients had intravenous thrombolysis/tissue plasminogen activator (IVT-tPA), two had mechanical thrombectomy (MT), and one had decompressive craniotomy. Five had COVID-19-positive chest X-rays, whereas four were normal. 4 of 8 STEMI and 3 NSTEMI/UA patients complained chest pain. LV, ICA, and pulmonary embolism were further complications (2). Upon discharge, 7 patients (70%) had residual deficits while one patient unfortunately died.}, } @article {pmid37209793, year = {2023}, author = {Chander, S and Kumari, R and Lohana, S}, title = {The Evolution and Future of Intensive Care Management in the era of Telecritical care and Artificial Intelligence.}, journal = {Current problems in cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101805}, doi = {10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.101805}, pmid = {37209793}, issn = {1535-6280}, abstract = {Critical care practice has been embodied in the healthcare system since the institutionalization of intensive care units (ICUs) in the late '50s. Over time, this sector has experienced many changes and improvements in providing immediate and dedicated healthcare as patients requiring intensive care are often frail and critically ill with high mortality and morbidity rates. These changes were aided by innovations in diagnostic, therapeutic, and monitoring technologies, as well as the implementation of evidence-based guidelines and organizational structures within the ICU. In this review, we examine these changes in intensive care management over the past 40 years and their impact on the quality of care available to patients. Moreover, the current state of intensive care management is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach and the use of innovative technologies and research databases. Advancements such as telecritical care and artificial intelligence are being increasingly explored, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, to reduce the length of hospitalization and ICU mortality. With these advancements in intensive care and ever-changing patient needs, critical care experts, hospital managers, and policymakers must also explore appropriate organizational structures and future enhancements within the ICU.}, } @article {pmid37209561, year = {2023}, author = {Gomes, AR and Varela, CL and Pires, AS and Tavares-da-Silva, EJ and Roleira, FMF}, title = {Synthetic and natural guanidine derivatives as antitumor and antimicrobial agents: A review.}, journal = {Bioorganic chemistry}, volume = {138}, number = {}, pages = {106600}, doi = {10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106600}, pmid = {37209561}, issn = {1090-2120}, abstract = {Guanidines are fascinating small nitrogen-rich organic compounds, which have been frequently associated with a wide range of biological activities. This is mainly due to their interesting chemical features. For these reasons, for the past decades, researchers have been synthesizing and evaluating guanidine derivatives. In fact, there are currently on the market several guanidine-bearing drugs. Given the broad panoply of pharmacological activities displayed by guanidine compounds, in this review, we chose to focus on antitumor, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiprotozoal activities presented by several natural and synthetic guanidine derivatives, which are undergoing preclinical and clinical studies from January 2010 to January 2023. Moreover, we also present guanidine-containing drugs currently in the market for the treatment of cancer and several infectious diseases. In the preclinical and clinical setting, most of the synthesized and natural guanidine derivatives are being evaluated as antitumor and antibacterial agents. Even though DNA is the most known target of this type of compounds, their cytotoxicity also involves several other different mechanisms, such as interference with bacterial cell membranes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, mediated-Rac1 inhibition, among others. As for the compounds already used as pharmacological drugs, their main application is in the treatment of different types of cancer, such as breast, lung, prostate, and leukemia. Guanidine-containing drugs are also being used for the treatment of bacterial, antiprotozoal, antiviral infections and, recently, have been proposed for the treatment of COVID-19. To conclude, the guanidine group is a privileged scaffold in drug design. Its remarkable cytotoxic activities, especially in the field of oncology, still make it suitable for a deeper investigation to afford more efficient and target-specific drugs.}, } @article {pmid37209374, year = {2023}, author = {Duong-Quy, S and Vo-Pham-Minh, T and Tran-Xuan, Q and Huynh-Anh, T and Vo-Van, T and Vu-Tran-Thien, Q and Nguyen-Nhu, V}, title = {Post-COVID-19 Pulmonary Fibrosis: Facts-Challenges and Futures: A Narrative Review.}, journal = {Pulmonary therapy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37209374}, issn = {2364-1746}, abstract = {Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) usually suffer from post-acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (PASC). Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) has the most significant long-term impact on patients' respiratory health, called post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis (PC19-PF). PC19- PF can be caused by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or pneumonia due to COVID-19. The risk factors of PC19-PF, such as older age, chronic comorbidities, the use of mechanical ventilation during the acute phase, and female sex, should be considered. Individuals with COVID-19 pneumonia symptoms lasting at least 12 weeks following diagnosis, including cough, dyspnea, exertional dyspnea, and poor saturation, accounted for nearly all disease occurrences. PC19-PF is characterized by persistent fibrotic tomographic sequelae associated with functional impairment throughout follow-up. Thus, clinical examination, radiology, pulmonary function tests, and pathological findings should be done to diagnose PC19-PF patients. PFT indicated persistent limitations in diffusion capacity and restrictive physiology, despite the absence of previous testing and inconsistency in the timeliness of assessments following acute illness. It has been hypothesized that PC19-PF patients may benefit from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis treatment to prevent continued infection-related disorders, enhance the healing phase, and manage fibroproliferative processes. Immunomodulatory agents might reduce inflammation and the length of mechanical ventilation during the acute phase of COVID-19 infection, and the risk of the PC19-PF stage. Pulmonary rehabilitation, incorporating exercise training, physical education, and behavioral modifications, can improve the physical and psychological conditions of patients with PC19-PF.}, } @article {pmid37208749, year = {2023}, author = {Soheili, M and Khateri, S and Moradpour, F and Mohammadzedeh, P and Zareie, M and Mortazavi, SMM and Manifar, S and Kohan, HG and Moradi, Y}, title = {The efficacy and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines around the world: a mini-review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Annals of clinical microbiology and antimicrobials}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {42}, pmid = {37208749}, issn = {1476-0711}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This meta-analysis evaluated the Efficacy and Effectiveness of several COVID-19 vaccines, including AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Bharat, and Johnson & Johnson, to better estimate their immunogenicity, benefits, or side effects.

METHODS: Studies reporting the Efficacy and Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines from November 2020 to April 2022 were included. The pooled Effectiveness/Efficacy with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) with Metaprop order was calculated. The results were presented in forest plots. Predefined subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were also performed.

RESULTS: A total of twenty articles were included in this meta-analysis. After the first dose of the vaccine, the total effectiveness of all COVID-19 vaccines in our study was 71% (95% CI 0.65, 0.78). The total effectiveness of vaccines after the second dose was 91% (95% CI 0.88, 0.94)). The total efficacy of vaccines after the first and second doses was 81% (95% CI 0.70, 0.91) and 71% (95% CI 0.62, 0.79), respectively. The effectiveness of the Moderna vaccine after the first and second dose was the highest among other studied vaccines ((74% (95% CI, 0.65, 0.83) and 93% (95% CI, 0.89, 0.97), respectively). The highest first dose overall effectiveness of the studied vaccines was against the Gamma variant (74% (95% CI, 0.73, 0.75)), and the highest effectiveness after the second dose was observed against the Beta variant (96% (95% CI, 0.96, 0.96)). The Efficacy for AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines after the first dose was 78% (95% CI, 0.62, 0.95) and 84% (95% CI, 0.77, 0.92), respectively. The second dose Efficacy for AstraZeneca, Pfizer, and Bharat was 67% (95% CI, 0.54, 0.80), 93% (95% CI, 0.85, 1.00), and 71% (95% CI, 0.61, 0.82), respectively. The overall efficacy of first and second dose vaccination against the Alfa variant was 84% (95% CI, 0.84, 0.84) and 77% (95% CI, 0.57, 0.97), respectively, the highest among other variants.

CONCLUSION: mRNA-based vaccines against COVID-19 showed the highest total efficacy and effectiveness than other vaccines. In general, administering the second dose produced a more reliable response and higher effectiveness than a single dose.}, } @article {pmid37203732, year = {2023}, author = {Abovarda, A and Vallo Hult, H and Master Östlund, C and Pålsson, P}, title = {E-learning as Part of Residency Education.}, journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics}, volume = {302}, number = {}, pages = {496-497}, doi = {10.3233/SHTI230188}, pmid = {37203732}, issn = {1879-8365}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; *Computer-Assisted Instruction ; *Internship and Residency ; Learning ; *Physicians ; Problem Solving ; }, abstract = {Through a literature review in combination with qualitative analysis of course evaluations, this study examines aspects that contribute to enhancing e-learning for physicians in a residency education program. The literature review and the qualitative analysis outline three main factors (pedagogical, technological, and organizational), highlighting the importance of a holistic approach that includes learning and technology in context when integrating e-learning strategies in adult learning programs. The findings contribute insights and practical guidance for education organizers on how to conduct e-learning during and after the pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37202794, year = {2023}, author = {Nasergivehchi, S and Togha, M and Jafari, E and Sheikhvatan, M and Shahamati, D}, title = {Headache following vaccination against COVID-19 among healthcare workers with a history of COVID-19 infection: a cross-sectional study in Iran with a meta-analytic review of the literature.}, journal = {Head & face medicine}, volume = {19}, number = {1}, pages = {19}, pmid = {37202794}, issn = {1746-160X}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Iran/epidemiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Headache/epidemiology/etiology ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; Health Personnel ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is evidence of the occurrence of headache after vaccination against COVID-19. However, only a few studies have examined the headache characteristics and related determinants, especially among healthcare workers with a history of COVID-19 infection.

METHODS: We evaluated the incidence of headaches after injection of different types of COVID-19 vaccine to determine factors relating to the incidence of headache after vaccination among the Iranian healthcare workers who had previously contracted COVID-19. A group of 334 healthcare workers with a history of COVID-19 infection were included and vaccinated (at least one month after recovery without any COVID-19 related symptoms) with different COVID-19 vaccines. The baseline information, headache characteristics and vaccine specifications were recorded.

RESULTS: Overall, 39.2% reported experiencing a post-vaccination headache. Of those with a previous history of headache, 51.1% reported migraine-type, 27.4% tension-type and 21.5% other types. The mean time between vaccination and headache appearance was 26.78 ± 6.93 h, with the headache appearing less than 24 h after vaccination in most patients (83.2%). The headaches reached its peak within 8.62 ± 2.41 h. Most patients reported a compression-type headache. The prevalence of post-vaccination headaches was significantly different according to the type of vaccine used. The highest rates were reported for AstraZeneca, followed by Sputnik V. In regression analysis, the vaccine brand, female gender and initial COVID-19 severity were the main determinants for predicting post-vaccination headache.

CONCLUSION: Participants commonly experienced a headache following vaccination against COVID-19. Our study results indicated that this was slightly more common in females and in those with a history of severe COVID-19 infection.}, } @article {pmid37155708, year = {2023}, author = {de Macedo, PM and Benko, LMP and Falcão, EMM and Nosanchuk, JD and Almeida-Paes, R and do Valle, ACF}, title = {COVID-19 in patients with paracoccidioidomycosis.}, journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases}, volume = {17}, number = {5}, pages = {e0011322}, pmid = {37155708}, issn = {1935-2735}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; *Paracoccidioidomycosis/complications/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Coinfection/complications ; Brazil/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; *Paracoccidioides ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In 2020, we reported the first patient with concomitant COVID-19 and paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). Since then, no other cases have been recorded in the literature. We aim to update information on the occurrence of COVID-19 in patients with PCM followed at a reference center for infectious diseases at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

METHODS: We reviewed the medical records from patients diagnosed with PCM who presented with clinical symptoms, radiological findings, and/or laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19 at any time during their acute or follow-up care. The clinical profiles of these patients were described.

RESULTS: Between March 2020 and September 2022, we identified six individuals with COVID-19 among the 117 patients with PCM evaluated. The median age was 38 years and the male to female ratio 2:1. Most patients (n = 5) presented for evaluation due to acute PCM. The severity of COVID-19 ranged from mild to severe in acute PCM and only the single patient with chronic PCM died.

CONCLUSIONS: There is a range of disease severity in COVID-19 and PCM co-infection and concomitant disease may represent a severe association, especially in the chronic type of the mycosis with pulmonary involvement. As COVID-19 and chronic PCM share similar clinical aspects and PCM is neglected, it is probable that COVID-19 has been hampering simultaneous PCM diagnosis, which can explain the absence of new co-infection reports. With the continued persistence of COVID-19 globally, these findings further suggest that more attention by providers is necessary to identify co-infections with Paracoccidioides.}, } @article {pmid37079022, year = {2023}, author = {Murdaca, G and Paladin, F and Mangini, G and Tiso, D and Gangemi, S}, title = {TBC and COVID: an interplay between two infections.}, journal = {Expert opinion on drug safety}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, pages = {303-311}, doi = {10.1080/14740338.2023.2205638}, pmid = {37079022}, issn = {1744-764X}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coinfection/diagnosis/epidemiology/microbiology ; Pandemics ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In a historical era dominated by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a fact of growing interest emerges regarding co-infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). This represents today an important clinical and diagnostic challenge, as the two pathogens are capable, through specific immunopathological mechanisms, of interacting with each other, determining a severe respiratory condition with a severe prognosis.

AREAS COVERED: With this review, we wanted to collect and analyze the latest scientific evidence concerning the main immunopathogenetic mechanisms shared by these two respiratory pathogens, with particular interest in the possible iatrogenic factors favoring coinfection and the need to define multidisciplinary and standardized screening tools aimed to identify coinfection early, ensuring the best clinical and therapeutic management.

EXPERT OPINION: The existence of a direct immunopathogenetic link between COVID-19 and TB indirectly contributes to mutual morbidity and mortality. The identification and application of early and standardized screening tools aimed at the identification of this condition is essential, in addition to vaccine prevention.}, } @article {pmid37068591, year = {2023}, author = {Pilchová, V and Prajeeth, CK and Jendrny, P and Twele, F and Meller, S and Pink, I and Fathi, A and Addo, MM and Volk, HA and Osterhaus, A and von Köckritz-Blickwede, M and Schulz, C}, title = {β-Propiolactone (BPL)-inactivation of SARS-Co-V-2: In vitro validation with focus on saliva from COVID-19 patients for scent dog training.}, journal = {Journal of virological methods}, volume = {317}, number = {}, pages = {114733}, pmid = {37068591}, issn = {1879-0984}, mesh = {Dogs ; Animals ; Propiolactone ; Saliva ; Odorants ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; Virus Inactivation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Viruses ; }, abstract = {β-Propiolactone (BPL) is an organic compound widely used as an inactivating agent in vaccine development and production, for example for SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza viruses. Inactivation of pathogens by BPL is based on an irreversible alkylation of nucleic acids but also on acetylation and cross-linking between proteins, DNA or RNA. However, the protocols for BPL inactivation of viruses vary widely. Handling of infectious, enriched SARS-CoV-2 specimens and diagnostic samples from COVID-19 patients is recommended in biosafety level (BSL)- 3 or BSL-2 laboratories, respectively. We validated BPL inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples with the objective to use saliva from COVID-19 patients for training of scent dogs for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals. Therefore, saliva samples and cell culture medium buffered with NaHCO3 (pH 8.3) were comparatively spiked with SARS-CoV-2 and inactivated with 0.1 % BPL for 1 h (h) or 71 h (± 1 h) at 2-8 °C, followed by hydrolysis of BPL at 37 °C for 1 or 2 h, converting BPL into non-toxic beta-hydroxy-propionic acid. SARS-CoV-2 inactivation was demonstrated by a titre reduction of up to 10^4 TCID50/ml in the spiked samples for both inactivation periods using virus titration and virus isolation, respectively. The validated method was confirmed by successful inactivation of pathogens in saliva samples from COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, we reviewed the currently available literature on SARS-CoV-2 inactivation by BPL. Accordingly, BPL-inactivated, hydrolysed samples can be handled in a non-laboratory setting. Furthermore, our BPL inactivation protocols can be adapted to validation experiments with other pathogens.}, } @article {pmid37061175, year = {2023}, author = {Barreras, P and Pamies, D and Hartung, T and Pardo, CA}, title = {Human brain microphysiological systems in the study of neuroinfectious disorders.}, journal = {Experimental neurology}, volume = {365}, number = {}, pages = {114409}, doi = {10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114409}, pmid = {37061175}, issn = {1090-2430}, mesh = {Humans ; Microphysiological Systems ; Proteomics ; RNA, Viral ; *COVID-19/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Brain ; *Zika Virus ; *Zika Virus Infection/pathology ; *Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells/physiology ; }, abstract = {Microphysiological systems (MPS) are 2D or 3D multicellular constructs able to mimic tissue microenvironments. The latest models encompass a range of techniques, including co-culturing of various cell types, utilization of scaffolds and extracellular matrix materials, perfusion systems, 3D culture methods, 3D bioprinting, organ-on-a-chip technology, and examination of tissue structures. Several human brain 3D cultures or brain MPS (BMPS) have emerged in the last decade. These organoids or spheroids are 3D culture systems derived from induced pluripotent cells or embryonic stem cells that contain neuronal and glial populations and recapitulate structural and physiological aspects of the human brain. BMPS have been introduced recently in the study and modeling of neuroinfectious diseases and have proven to be useful in establishing neurotropism of viral infections, cell-pathogen interactions needed for infection, assessing cytopathological effects, genomic and proteomic profiles, and screening therapeutic compounds. Here we review the different methodologies of organoids used in neuroinfectious diseases including spheroids, guided and unguided protocols as well as microglia and blood-brain barrier containing models, their specific applications, and limitations. The review provides an overview of the models existing for specific infections including Zika, Dengue, JC virus, Japanese encephalitis, measles, herpes, SARS-CoV2, and influenza viruses among others, and provide useful concepts in the modeling of disease and antiviral agent screening.}, } @article {pmid36971472, year = {2023}, author = {Norman, FF and Chen, LH}, title = {Travel-associated melioidosis: a narrative review.}, journal = {Journal of travel medicine}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1093/jtm/taad039}, pmid = {36971472}, issn = {1708-8305}, mesh = {Male ; Animals ; Humans ; Female ; *Melioidosis/diagnosis/epidemiology/drug therapy ; Travel ; *HIV Infections/complications ; Risk Factors ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; *Burkholderia pseudomallei ; Thailand ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, may be considered a neglected tropical disease that remains underdiagnosed in many geographical areas. Travellers can act as the sentinels of disease activity, and data from imported cases may help complete the global map of melioidosis.

METHODS: A literature search for imported melioidosis for the period 2016-22 was performed in PubMed and Google Scholar.

RESULTS: In total, 137 reports of melioidosis associated with travel were identified. The majority were males (71%) and associated with exposure in Asia (77%) (mainly Thailand, 41%, and India, 9%). A minority acquired the infection in the Americas-Caribbean area (6%), Africa (5%) and Oceania (2%). The most frequent comorbidity was diabetes mellitus (25%) followed by underlying pulmonary, liver or renal disease (8, 5 and 3%, respectively). Alcohol/tobacco use were noted for seven and six patients, respectively (5%). Five patients (4%) had associated non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related immunosuppression, and three patients (2%) had HIV infection. One patient (0.8%) had concomitant coronavirus disease 19. A proportion (27%) had no underlying diseases. The most frequent clinical presentations included pneumonia (35%), sepsis (30%) and skin/soft tissue infections (14%). Most developed symptoms <1 week after return (55%), and 29% developed symptoms >12 weeks after. Ceftazidime and meropenem were the main treatments used during the intensive intravenous phase (52 and 41% of patients, respectively) and the majority (82%) received co-trimoxazole alone/combination, for the eradication phase. Most patients had a favourable outcome/survived (87%). The search also retrieved cases in imported animals or cases secondary to imported commercial products.

CONCLUSIONS: As post-pandemic travel soars, health professionals should be aware of the possibility of imported melioidosis with its diverse presentations. Currently, no licensed vaccine is available, so prevention in travellers should focus on protective measures (avoiding contact with soil/stagnant water in endemic areas). Biological samples from suspected cases require processing in biosafety level 3 facilities.}, } @article {pmid36939259, year = {2023}, author = {Choudhri, Y and Maslove, DM and Rauh, MJ}, title = {COVID-19 and the Genetics of Inflammation.}, journal = {Critical care medicine}, volume = {51}, number = {6}, pages = {817-825}, pmid = {36939259}, issn = {1530-0293}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Inflammation/genetics ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Interindividual variability in the clinical progression of COVID-19 may be explained by host genetics. Emerging literature supports a potential inherited predisposition to severe forms of COVID-19. Demographic and inflammatory characteristics of COVID-19 suggest that acquired hematologic mutations leading to clonal hematopoiesis (CH) may further increase vulnerability to adverse sequelae. This review summarizes the available literature examining genetic predispositions to severe COVID-19 and describes how these findings could eventually be used to improve its clinical management.

DATA SOURCES: A PubMed literature search was performed.

STUDY SELECTION: Studies examining the significance of inherited genetic variation or acquired CH mutations in severe COVID-19 were selected for inclusion.

DATA EXTRACTION: Relevant genetic association data and aspects of study design were qualitatively assessed and narratively synthesized.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Genetic variants affecting inflammatory responses may increase susceptibility to severe COVID-19. Genome-wide association studies and candidate gene approaches have identified a list of inherited mutations, which likely alter cytokine and interferon secretion, and lung-specific mechanisms of immunity in COVID-19. The potential role of CH in COVID-19 is more uncertain at present; however, the available evidence suggests that the various types of acquired mutations and their differential influence on immune cell function must be carefully considered.

CONCLUSIONS: The current literature supports the hypothesis that host genetic factors affect vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Further research is required to confirm the full scope of relevant variants and the causal mechanisms underlying these associations. Clinical approaches, which consider the genetic basis of interindividual variability in COVID-19 and potentially other causes of critical illness, could optimize hospital resource allocation, predict responsiveness to treatment, identify more efficacious drug targets, and ultimately improve outcomes.}, } @article {pmid36905651, year = {2023}, author = {Beretta, G and Marelli, L}, title = {Fast-tracking development and regulatory approval of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU: A review of ethical implications.}, journal = {Bioethics}, volume = {37}, number = {5}, pages = {498-507}, doi = {10.1111/bioe.13151}, pmid = {36905651}, issn = {1467-8519}, mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Vaccines ; }, abstract = {The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 worldwide has triggered intense activity in the field of biotechnology, leading to the development and regulatory approval of multiple COVID-19 vaccines in less than 1 year while raising sustained scrutiny as to the ethical issues associated with this process. This article pursues a twofold objective. First, it reconstructs and provides a thorough overview of the different steps, from clinical trial design to regulatory procedures, underpinning the "fast-tracking" of COVID-19 vaccine R&D and approval. Second, drawing on a review of published literature, the article identifies, outlines, and analyzes the most ethically challenging aspects related to such process, including concerns around vaccine safety, issues in study design, the enrollment of study participants, and the challenges in obtaining valid informed consent. By scrutinizing relevant aspects of COVID-19 vaccine development and regulatory processes leading to market authorization, this article ultimately aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the regulatory and ethical issues underpinning the roll-out of this key pandemic-containment technology worldwide.}, } @article {pmid36879524, year = {2023}, author = {Rogers, MA and MacLean, J}, title = {ADHD Symptoms Increased During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Journal of attention disorders}, volume = {27}, number = {8}, pages = {800-811}, pmid = {36879524}, issn = {1557-1246}, mesh = {Child ; Humans ; *Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Emerging research suggests that the Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately and adversely affected children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The purpose of this meta-analysis is to consolidate the findings from studies that examined changes in ADHD symptoms from before to during the pandemic.

METHOD: Database searches of PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, and ProQuest were used to identify relevant studies, theses, and dissertations.

RESULTS: A total of 18 studies met specific inclusion criteria and were coded based on various study characteristics. Twelve studies examined ADHD symptoms longitudinally and six studies assessed ADHD symptoms retroactively and during the pandemic. Data from 6,491 participants from 10 countries were included. Results indicated that many children and/or their caregivers reported an increase in child ADHD symptoms during the Covid-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: This review points to a global increase in ADHD symptoms and has implications for the prevalence and management of ADHD during the post-pandemic recovery.}, } @article {pmid36464883, year = {2023}, author = {Bharti, M and Alam, MA and Koteswara Rao, GSN and Sharma, PK and Varshney, S}, title = {Nanoformulation-based Drug Delivery System for Viral Diseases.}, journal = {Pharmaceutical nanotechnology}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, pages = {105-126}, doi = {10.2174/2211738511666221201154154}, pmid = {36464883}, issn = {2211-7393}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Antiviral Agents ; }, abstract = {Viral diseases are one of the major causes of mortality worldwide. The emergence of pandemics because of the COVID virus creates a dire need for an efficient mechanism to combat the disease. Viruses differ from other pathogenic infections; they render the host immune system vulnerable. One of the major challenges for developing antivirals is the resistance developed by the overuse of drugs, which is inevitable as most viral diseases require a large number of doses. Viral infection detection, prevention, and treatment have significantly benefitted from developing several innovative technologies in recent years. Nanotechnology has emerged as one of the most promising technologies because of its capacity to deal with viral infections efficiently and eradicate the lagging of conventional antiviral drugs. This review briefly presents an overview of the application of nanotechnology for viral therapy.}, } @article {pmid36424799, year = {2023}, author = {Balaji Easwaran, V and Satarker, S and V Gujaran, T and John, J and Veedu, AP and George, KT and Purayil, DK and Beegum, F and Mathew, A and Vibhavari, R and Chaudhari, SS and Pai, KSR}, title = {Expediting Molecular Translational Approach of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in COVID-19 Treatment.}, journal = {Current stem cell research & therapy}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {653-675}, doi = {10.2174/1574888X18666221124122113}, pmid = {36424799}, issn = {2212-3946}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Cytokines ; *Mesenchymal Stem Cells ; *Respiratory Insufficiency ; *Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation ; }, abstract = {Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in late 2019 with severe respiratory failure and organ damage that later appeared as a pandemic disease. Worldwide, people's mental and physical health and socioeconomic have been affected. Currently, with no promising treatment for COVID-19, the existing anti-viral drugs and vaccines are the only hope to boost the host immune system to reduce morbidity and mortality rate. Unfortunately, several reports show that people who are partially or fully vaccinated are still susceptible to COVID-19 infection. Evidence suggests that COVID-19 immunopathology may include dysregulation of macrophages and monocytes, reduced type 1 interferons (IFN-1), and enhanced cytokine storm that results in hypersecretion of proinflammatory cytokines, capillary leak syndrome, intravascular coagulation, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) ultimately leading to the worsening of patient's condition and death in most cases. The recent use of cell-based therapies such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for critically ill COVID-19 patients has been authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to alleviate cytokine release syndrome. It protects the alveolar epithelial cells by promoting immunomodulatory action and secreting therapeutic exosomes to improve lung function and attenuate respiratory failure. As a result, multiple clinical trials have been registered using MSCs that aim to use various cell sources, and dosages to promote safety and efficacy against COVID-19 infection. In this review, the possibility of using MSCs in COVID-19 treatment and its associated challenges in their use have been briefly discussed.}, } @article {pmid36424781, year = {2023}, author = {Rastogi, S and Singh, A and Nandi, A and Gupta, A and Agarwal, J and Kostova, I}, title = {Can the Therapeutic Spectrum of Probiotics be Extended: Exploring Potential of Gut Microbiome.}, journal = {Recent advances in anti-infective drug discovery}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {120-147}, doi = {10.2174/2772434418666221124124317}, pmid = {36424781}, issn = {2772-4352}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *COVID-19 ; Lactobacillus ; *Autoimmune Diseases ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {Natural therapeutic microorganisms provide a potent alternative healthcare treatment nowadays, with the potential to prevent several human diseases. These health-boosting living organisms, probiotics mostly belong to Gram-positive bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Saccharomyces, Bacillus and Enterococcus. Initiated almost a century ago, the probiotic application has come a long way. The present review is focused on the potential therapeutic role of probiotics in ameliorating multiple infections, such as upper respiratory tract infections and viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19; liver diseases and hepatic encephalopathy; neurological and psychiatric disorders; autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis. Apart from these, the therapeutic exacerbations of probiotics in urinary tract infections have been extremely promising, and several approaches are reviewed and presented here. We also present upcoming and new thrust areas where probiotic therapeutic interventions are showing promising results, like faecal microbial transplant and vaginal microbial transplant.}, } @article {pmid36330967, year = {2023}, author = {Brenner, DJ}, title = {Far-UVC Light at 222 nm is Showing Significant Potential to Safely and Efficiently Inactivate Airborne Pathogens in Occupied Indoor Locations.}, journal = {Photochemistry and photobiology}, volume = {99}, number = {3}, pages = {1047-1050}, doi = {10.1111/php.13739}, pmid = {36330967}, issn = {1751-1097}, mesh = {Humans ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Disinfection ; }, abstract = {Far UVC light (UVC wavelengths below 235 nm) is a comparatively new modality with significant potential to safely and very efficiently inactivate airborne pathogens in occupied indoor locations. There are now significant accumulations of evidence both in terms of the safety of far-UVC for direct exposure of occupied indoor locations, and in terms of its efficacy to markedly reduce the levels of active airborne pathogens This article reviews both the safety of far-UVC, which has a clear mechanistic underpinning, and its efficacy, both in the laboratory and in full-sized rooms. Highlighted is the paper by Ma et al. in this issue of Photochemistry and Photobiology which addresses the efficacy of far-UVC light (in this case at 222 nm) against a broad spectrum of common pathogens including SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses. From their data, and based on our understanding of the largely random nature of UVC-induced damage within the genome, far UVC would be expected to be effective against the next pandemic virus, if and when it emerges.}, } @article {pmid36281656, year = {2023}, author = {Roberts, NA and Dhillon, HM and Paterson, C and Schubach, K and McJannett, M and , }, title = {The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on genitourinary and prostate cancer care and clinical trials: A qualitative exploration of the Australian and New Zealand experience.}, journal = {Asia-Pacific journal of clinical oncology}, volume = {19}, number = {3}, pages = {337-346}, pmid = {36281656}, issn = {1743-7563}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; New Zealand/epidemiology ; Australia/epidemiology ; Communicable Disease Control ; *Prostatic Neoplasms/therapy ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: This qualitative study aimed to understand the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic from March to November 2020 on healthcare delivery and clinical trials for genitourinary (GU) cancers in Australia.

METHODS: Annually a pre-conference workshop is hosted by the Australian New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate Cancer Trials Group for supportive care health professionals. In November 2020, those that selected to attend were invited to participate in a focus group. Workshop and focus group discussions were recorded and transcripts were analyzed thematically.

RESULTS: Seventy-two individuals involved in GU cancer care and clinical trials took part. Participants described negative changes to GU cancer care and clinical trials from the pandemic due to reduced clinical services and increased wait times. Trial recruitment was paused temporarily during lockdowns, and standard treatment protocols were used to limit hospital visits. Trial process changes included electronic capture of informed consent, home delivery of oral medications, and delegations of assessments. These changes increased administrative activity for clinical trial teams and Human Research Ethics Committees. A transition to telehealth enabled continuity of service delivery and trials but reduced the opportunity for face-to-face patient consultations with increasing concern about the failure to detect supportive care needs.

CONCLUSION: The pandemic has prompted a critical review of service delivery and clinical trials for people with GU cancers.}, } @article {pmid36043737, year = {2023}, author = {Baraskar, K and Thakur, P and Shrivastava, R and Shrivastava, VK}, title = {Therapeutic Role of Phytophenol Gallic Acid for the Cure of COVID-19 Pathogenesis.}, journal = {Endocrine, metabolic & immune disorders drug targets}, volume = {23}, number = {4}, pages = {464-469}, doi = {10.2174/1871530322666220829141401}, pmid = {36043737}, issn = {2212-3873}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus ; Gallic Acid/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Mutation ; }, abstract = {The SARS CoV-2 virus, the causative agent of COVID-19 uses the ACE-2 receptor of the host to penetrate and infect the cell, mainly in the pulmonary, renal, and cardiac tissues. The earlier reported Delta and the recent Omicron are the variants of concern. The mutations in the RBD region of spike protein are associated with increased RBD-ACE-2 receptor interaction. This binding affinity between spike protein and the receptor is greater in Omicron than in the Delta variant. Moreover, the Omicron variant has numerous hydrophobic amino acids in the RBD region of the spike protein, which maintain its structural integrity. Gallic acid is a phytophenol and shows high binding affinity toward the ACE-2 receptors, which may be helpful for better outcomes in the treatment of COVID-19 pathogenesis. In the present study, significant data were collected from different databases i.e., PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science by using keywords like anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of gallic acid, in addition to receptor-based host cell interaction of SARS CoV-2 virus. The finding shows that gallic acid can reduce inflammation by attenuating NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways to suppress the release of ICAM-1, a cell surface glycoprotein; various pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL 1-β, IL-6, IL-10, and chemokines like CCL-2,5, CXCL-8 along with tissue infiltration by immune cells. The purpose of this review is to highlight the therapeutic potential of gallic acid in COVID-19 pathogenesis based on its strong anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti- microbial properties.}, } @article {pmid36038397, year = {2023}, author = {Bertin, B and Grenet, G and Pizzoglio-Billaudaz, V and Lepelley, M and Atzenhoffer, M and Vial, T}, title = {Vaccines and Bell's palsy: A narrative review.}, journal = {Therapie}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {279-292}, pmid = {36038397}, issn = {1958-5578}, mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *Bell Palsy/epidemiology/etiology ; *Influenza Vaccines ; *Facial Paralysis/complications/drug therapy ; *Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype ; BNT162 Vaccine ; *COVID-19 ; }, abstract = {The association between vaccines and peripheral facial palsy (PFP), an issue that has been the subject of debate for many years, has been raised again following results of clinical trials assessing mRNA based COVID-19 vaccines. To review the available literature on this topic, PubMed was searched from inception until February 25, 2022. Inclusion criteria were case reports with documented rechallenge and comparative epidemiological studies. Cases of COVID-19 vaccine-induced PFP with available data on vaccine rechallenge were also identified from Vigibase until December 31, 2021. Of the 347 articles retrieved, 32 comparative epidemiological studies, 1 meta-analysis and 4 case reports met our criteria, of which 13 involved COVID-19 vaccines. Eight studies found an association between at least one vaccine and the occurrence of PFP, whereas 24 did not. Positive studies involved seasonal or pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccines administered parenterally (4 studies) or intranasally (1 study with a toxin-adjuvanted vaccine), BNT162b2, a mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (1 disproportionality analysis and 1 observed-to-expected analysis) and an inactivated virus COVID-19 vaccine (CoronaVac®) (1 study combining a case-control and an observed-to-expected approach). Strong evidence was found only for the intranasal influenza vaccine while other positive studies detected only a marginal association between PFP and vaccination. Of the four case reports with documented rechallenge, only two were positive and involved an influenza vaccine and tozinameran in one case each. In Vigibase, rechallenge was documented in 49 reports with 29 (59.2%) cases being negative and 20 (40.8%) positive. The available data did not confirm an excess risk of PFP after vaccination in most studies. Moreover, of the eight epidemiological studies suggesting a possible excess risk of PFP after any vaccine, three were disproportionality analyses and two observed-to excepted analyses, suggesting great caution should be taken when interpreting these results.}, } @article {pmid35908998, year = {2023}, author = {Berrim, K and Sahnoun, R and Ksentini, M and Athyemen, R and Ksouda, K and Affes, H and Hammemi, S and Zeghal, K and Ben Mahmoud, L}, title = {[Erythema nodosum associated with Tozinameran vaccine: Report of 2 cases and review of the literature].}, journal = {Therapie}, volume = {78}, number = {3}, pages = {330-334}, pmid = {35908998}, issn = {1958-5578}, mesh = {Humans ; *Erythema Nodosum/complications ; BNT162 Vaccine ; }, } @article {pmid37209261, year = {2023}, author = {Kole, C and Stefanou, Ε and Karvelas, N and Schizas, D and Toutouzas, KP}, title = {Acute and Post-Acute COVID-19 Cardiovascular Complications: A Comprehensive Review.}, journal = {Cardiovascular drugs and therapy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37209261}, issn = {1573-7241}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The risk of cardiovascular complications due to SARS-CoV-2 are significantly increased within the first 6 months of the infection. Patients with COVID-19 have an increased risk of death, and there is evidence that many may experience a wide range of post-acute cardiovascular complications. Our work aims to provide an update on current clinical aspects of diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular manifestations during acute and long-term COVID-19.

RECENT FINDINGS: SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to be associated with increased incidence of cardiovascular complications such as myocardial injury, heart failure, and dysrhythmias, as well as coagulation abnormalities not only during the acute phase but also beyond the first 30 days of the infection, associated with high mortality and poor outcomes. Cardiovascular complications during long-COVID-19 were found regardless of comorbidities such as age, hypertension, and diabetes; nevertheless, these populations remain at high risk for the worst outcomes during post-acute COVID-19. Emphasis should be given to the management of these patients. Treatment with low-dose oral propranolol, a beta blocker, for heart rate management may be considered, since it was found to significantly attenuate tachycardia and improve symptoms in postural tachycardia syndrome, while for patients on ACE inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs), under no circumstances should these medications be withdrawn. In addition, in patients at high risk after hospitalization due to COVID-19, thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban 10 mg/day for 35 days improved clinical outcomes compared with no extended thromboprophylaxis. In this work we provide a comprehensive review on acute and post-acute COVID-19 cardiovascular complications, symptomatology, and pathophysiology mechanisms. We also discuss therapeutic strategies for these patients during acute and long-term care and highlight populations at risk. Our findings suggest that older patients with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and medical history of vascular disease have worse outcomes during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and are more likely to develop cardiovascular complications during long-COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37209039, year = {2023}, author = {D'Souza, F and Buzzetti, R and Pozzilli, P}, title = {Diabetes, COVID-19, and questions unsolved.}, journal = {Diabetes/metabolism research and reviews}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e3666}, doi = {10.1002/dmrr.3666}, pmid = {37209039}, issn = {1520-7560}, abstract = {Recent evidence suggests a role for Diabetes Mellitus in adverse outcomes from COVID-19 infection; yet the underlying mechanisms are not clear. Moreover, attention has turned to prophylactic vaccination to protect the population from COVID-19-related illness and mortality. We performed a comprehensive peer-reviewed literature search on an array of key terms concerning diabetes and COVID-19 seeking to address the following questions: 1. What role does diabetes play as an accelerator for adverse outcomes in COVID-19?; 2. What mechanisms underlie the differences in outcomes seen in people with diabetes?; 3. Are vaccines against COVID-19 efficacious in people with diabetes? The current literature demonstrates that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19 infection, and post-COVID sequelae. Potential mechanisms include dysregulation of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2, Furin, CD147, and impaired immune cell responses. Hyperglycaemia is a key exacerbator of these mechanisms. Limited studies are available on COVID-19 vaccination in people with diabetes; however, the current literature suggests that vaccination is protective against adverse outcomes for this population. In summary, people with diabetes are a high-risk group that should be prioritised in vaccination efforts. Glycaemic optimisation is paramount to protecting this group from COVID-19-associated risk. Unsolved questions remain as to the molecular mechanisms underlying the adverse outcomes seen in people with diabetes; the functional impact of post-COVID symptoms on people with diabetes, their persistence, and management; how long-term vaccine efficacy is affected by diabetes, and the antibody levels that confer protection from adverse outcomes in COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37208972, year = {2023}, author = {Lim, S and Park, H and Kim, S}, title = {Psychological experiences of nurses caring for patients with COVID-19: Integrative review based on qualitative research.}, journal = {Nursing open}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/nop2.1813}, pmid = {37208972}, issn = {2054-1058}, abstract = {AIM: To analyse the literature on nurses' psychological experiences caring for COVID-19 patients, focusing on qualitative research.

DESIGN: An integrative review.

REVIEW METHODS: Whittemore & Knafl's approach was used.

DATA SOURCES: Six databases were searched using the terms 'nurses', 'psychological experiences' and 'COVID-19'.

RESULTS: Ten studies were selected and analysed. Five characteristics related to nurses' negative psychological experiences, four characteristics related to positive psychological experiences and seven coping strategies of nurses were identified.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the need for psychological, social, financial and organizational support for nurses to improve mental well-being and the level of nursing care. No Patient or Public Contribution.}, } @article {pmid37208555, year = {2023}, author = {Batiha, GE and Al-Kuraishy, HM and Al-Gareeb, AI and Ashour, NA and Negm, WA}, title = {Potential role of tirzepatide towards Covid-19 infection in diabetic patients: a perspective approach.}, journal = {Inflammopharmacology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37208555}, issn = {1568-5608}, abstract = {In Covid-19, variations in fasting blood glucose are considered a distinct risk element for a bad prognosis and outcome in Covid-19 patients. Tirazepatide (TZT), a dual glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist may be effective in managing Covid-19-induced hyperglycemia in diabetic and non-diabetic patients. The beneficial effect of TZT in T2DM and obesity is related to direct activation of GIP and GLP-1 receptors with subsequent improvement of insulin sensitivity and reduction of body weight. TZT improves endothelial dysfunction (ED) and associated inflammatory changes through modulation of glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and pro-inflammatory biomarkers release. TZT, through activation of the GLP-1 receptor, may produce beneficial effects against Covid-19 severity since GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have anti-inflammatory and pulmoprotective implications in Covid-19. Therefore, GLP-1RAs could effectively treat severely affected Covid-19 diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Notably, using GLP-1RAs in T2DM patients prevents glucose variability, a common finding in Covid-19 patients. Therefore, GLP-1RAs like TZT could be a therapeutic strategy in T2DM patients with Covid-19 to prevent glucose variability-induced complications. In Covid-19, the inflammatory signaling pathways are highly activated, resulting in hyperinflammation. GLP-1RAs reduce inflammatory biomarkers like IL-6, CRP, and ferritin in Covid-19 patients. Therefore, GLP-1RAs like TZ may be effective in Covid-19 patients by reducing the inflammatory burden. The anti-obesogenic effect of TZT may reduce Covid-19 severity by ameliorating body weight and adiposity. Furthermore, Covid-19 may induce substantial alterations in gut microbiota. GLP-1RA preserves gut microbiota and prevents intestinal dysbiosis. Herein, TZT, like other GLP-1RA, may attenuate Covid-19-induced gut microbiota alterations and, by this mechanism, may mitigate intestinal inflammation and systemic complications in Covid-19 patients with either T2DM or obesity. As opposed to that, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) was reduced in obese and T2DM patients. However, activation of GIP-1R by TZT in T2DM patients improves glucose homeostasis. Thus, TZT, through activation of both GIP and GLP-1, may reduce obesity-mediated inflammation. In Covid-19, GIP response to the meal is impaired, leading to postprandial hyperglycemia and abnormal glucose homeostasis. Therefore, using TZT in severely affected Covid-19 patients may prevent the development of glucose variability and hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress. Moreover, exaggerated inflammatory disorders in Covid-19 due to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α may lead to systemic inflammation and cytokine storm development. Besides, GIP-1 inhibits expression of IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, chemokines and TNF-α. Therefore, using GIP-1RA like TZT may inhibit the onset of inflammatory disorders in severely affected Covid-19 patients. In conclusion, TZT, through activation of GLP-1 and GIP receptors, may prevent SARS-CoV-2-induced hyperinflammation and glucose variability in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.}, } @article {pmid37207818, year = {2023}, author = {Kasireddy, TR and Yukselen, Z and Muthyala, A and Bansal, K and Dasari, M and Kumar, PA and Anugu, VR and Majmundar, V and Nakhla, M and Sharma, G and Khurram, N and Warraich, HJ and Ganatra, S and Dani, SS}, title = {Association of Psychosocial risk factors and Outcomes in heart failure: Does COVID-19 affect outcomes?.}, journal = {Current problems in cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101795}, pmid = {37207818}, issn = {1535-6280}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Psychosocial risk factors (PSRFs) have emerged as crucial non-traditional risk factors affecting outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF). There is a paucity of data studying these risk factors in HF nationally. Additionally, whether the COVID-19 pandemic impacted outcomes remains unexplored, given the increased psychosocial risk during these times.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the impact of PSRFs on the outcomes of HF and their comparison across non-COVID and COVID eras.

METHODS: Patients with a diagnosis of HF were selected using the 2019-2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Two cohorts were created based on the presence or absence of PSRFs and compared across non-COVID (2019) and COVID (2020) eras. We examined the association using hierarchical multivariable logistic regression models.

RESULTS: A total of 305,955 patients were included, of which 175,348 (57%) had PSRFs. Patients with PSRFs were younger (P<0.001), less likely to be female (P<0.001), and had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. All-cause readmissions were higher in patients with PSRFs in both eras. All-cause mortality [HR 1.15 (1.04-1.27), P=0.005] and a composite of MACE [HR 1.11 (1.06-1.16), P<0.001] were higher in patients in the non-COVID era. Compared to 2019, patients with PSRFs and HF in 2020 had significantly higher all-cause mortality [1.13 (1.03-1.24), P=0.009]; however, the composite of MACE was comparable [1.04 (1.00-1.09), P=0.03].

CONCLUSION: The presence of PSRFs in patients with HF is associated with a significant increase in all-cause readmissions and all-cause mortality in COVID and non-COVID eras. The worse outcomes evident in the COVID era highlights the importance of multidisciplinary care in this vulnerable population.

SHORT ABSTRACT: Psychosocial risk factors (PSRFs) are crucial non-traditional risk factors affecting outcomes in heart failure (HF) patients. We sought to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PSRFs and HF outcomes. Utilizing 2019-2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database, 305,955 patients with a diagnosis of HF were selected of which 175,348 (57%) had PSRFs. We further compared these subgroups across non-COVID (2019) and COVID (2020) eras. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed for analysis. In patients with PSRFs, we noted higher 30-day all-cause readmissions, 30-day heart failure readmissions, 30-day all-cause mortality and composite of MACE. Readmissions were higher in both eras, while mortality was significantly higher during the COVID-19 era. This highlights the importance of multidisciplinary care in this vulnerable population.}, } @article {pmid37207439, year = {2023}, author = {Khoong, YM and Luo, S and Huang, X and Li, M and Gu, S and Jiang, T and Liang, H and Liu, Y and Zan, T}, title = {The application of augmented reality in plastic surgery training and education: A narrative review.}, journal = {Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS}, volume = {82}, number = {}, pages = {255-263}, doi = {10.1016/j.bjps.2023.04.033}, pmid = {37207439}, issn = {1878-0539}, abstract = {Continuing problems with fewer training opportunities and a greater awareness of patient safety have led to a constant search for an alternative technique to bridge the existing theory-practice gap in plastic surgery training and education. The current COVID-19 epidemic has aggravated the situation, making it urgent to implement breakthrough technological initiatives currently underway to improve surgical education. The cutting edge of technological development, augmented reality (AR), has already been applied in numerous facets of plastic surgery training, and it is capable of realizing the aims of education and training in this field. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most important ways that AR is now being used in plastic surgery education and training, as well as offer an exciting glimpse into the potential future of this field thanks to technological advancements.}, } @article {pmid37207374, year = {2023}, author = {Kandeepan, K and Robinson, J and Reed, W}, title = {Pandemic preparedness of diagnostic radiographers during COVID-19: A scoping review.}, journal = {Radiography (London, England : 1995)}, volume = {29}, number = {4}, pages = {729-737}, pmid = {37207374}, issn = {1532-2831}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: As chest imaging is a tool for detecting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), diagnostic radiographers are a key component of the frontline workforce. Due to its unforeseen nature, COVID-19 has challenged radiographers' preparedness in combating its effects. Despite its importance, literature specifically investigating radiographers' readiness is limited. However, the documented experiences are prognostic of pandemic preparedness. Hence, this study aimed to map this literature by addressing the question: 'what does the existing literature reveal about the pandemic preparedness of diagnostic radiographers during COVID-19?'.

METHODS: Using Arksey and O'Malley's framework, this scoping review searched for empirical studies in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and CINAHL. Consequently, 970 studies were yielded and underwent processes of deduplication, title and abstract screening, full-text screening, and backward citation searching. Forty-four articles were deemed eligible for data extraction and analysis.

RESULTS: Four themes that reflected pandemic preparedness were extrapolated: infection control and prevention, knowledge and education, clinical workflow, and mental health. Notably, the findings highlighted pronounced trends in adaptation of infection protocols, adequate infection knowledge, and pandemic-related fears. However, inconsistencies in the provision of personal protective equipment, training, and psychological support were revealed.

CONCLUSION: Literature suggests that radiographers are equipped with infection knowledge, but the changing work arrangements and varied availability of training and protective equipment weakens their preparedness. The disparate access to resources facilitated uncertainty, affecting radiographers' mental health.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: By reiterating the current strengths and weaknesses in pandemic preparedness, the findings can guide clinical practice and future research to correct inadequacies in infrastructure, education, and mental health support for radiographers in the current and future disease outbreaks.}, } @article {pmid37206656, year = {2023}, author = {Roshanshad, R and Roshanshad, A and Fereidooni, R and Hosseini-Bensenjan, M}, title = {COVID-19 and liver injury: Pathophysiology, risk factors, outcome and management in special populations.}, journal = {World journal of hepatology}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {441-459}, doi = {10.4254/wjh.v15.i4.441}, pmid = {37206656}, issn = {1948-5182}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 is an ongoing health concern. In addition to affecting the respiratory system, COVID-19 can potentially damage other systems in the body, leading to extra-pulmonary manifestations. Hepatic manifestations are among the common consequences of COVID-19. Although the precise mechanism of liver injury is still questionable, several mechanisms have been hypothesized, including direct viral effect, cytokine storm, hypoxic-ischemic injury, hypoxia-reperfusion injury, ferroptosis, and hepatotoxic medications. Risk factors of COVID-19-induced liver injury include severe COVID-19 infection, male gender, advanced age, obesity, and underlying diseases. The presentations of liver involvement comprise abnormalities in liver enzymes and radiologic findings, which can be utilized to predict the prognosis. Increased gamma-glutamyltransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase levels with hypoalbuminemia can indicate severe liver injury and anticipate the need for intensive care units' hospitalization. In imaging, a lower liver-to-spleen ratio and liver computed tomography attenuation may indicate a more severe illness. Furthermore, chronic liver disease patients are at a higher risk for severe disease and death from COVID-19. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease had the highest risk of advanced COVID-19 disease and death, followed by metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. In addition to COVID-19-induced liver injury, the pandemic has also altered the epidemiology and pattern of some hepatic diseases, such as alcoholic liver disease and hepatitis B. Therefore, it warrants special vigilance and awareness by healthcare professionals to screen and treat COVID-19-associated liver injury accordingly.}, } @article {pmid37206557, year = {2023}, author = {Gkoufa, A and Saridaki, M and Georgakopoulou, VE and Spandidos, DA and Cholongitas, E}, title = {COVID‑19 vaccination in liver transplant recipients (Review).}, journal = {Experimental and therapeutic medicine}, volume = {25}, number = {6}, pages = {291}, doi = {10.3892/etm.2023.11990}, pmid = {37206557}, issn = {1792-1015}, abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (Sars-CoV-2) infection has significantly affected immunocompromised individuals and subsequently, liver transplant recipients (LTRs). Early in the course of pandemic, this vulnerable population was prioritized for vaccination, after obtaining encouraging data about the vaccination benefits on disease severity and mortality. As the published knowledge was mainly supported from studies which were limited to the healthy population, the present review summarizes the data from the literature on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in LTRs and the available vaccination guidelines of international societies. The COVID-19 vaccination of LTRs is strongly recommended as a safe and effective measure in order to prevent severe disease and mortality.}, } @article {pmid37206510, year = {2023}, author = {Kattakola, Y and Prasad, R and Sharma, R and Wanjari, MB}, title = {High-Dose Prophylactic Anticoagulation for COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Review of Benefits and Risks.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37705}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.37705}, pmid = {37206510}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on a global scale, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The virus affects multiple organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, and coagulation systems, leading to severe pneumonia in some patients. Moreover, COVID-19 patients with severe pneumonia have a high incidence of thrombotic events, which can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Given the potential benefits of anticoagulation therapy in COVID-19 patients with thrombotic complications, recent studies have proposed high-dose prophylactic anticoagulation (HD-PA) therapy as a potential treatment option. In fact, some studies have suggested that HD-PA therapy may be more effective in reducing thrombotic events and mortality rates than other treatment options. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the benefits and risks of HD-PA therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia patients. By synthesizing and analyzing the latest available research, we highlight patient selection criteria and discuss the optimal dosage, duration, and timing of therapy. Additionally, we review the potential risks associated with HD-PA therapy and provide recommendations for clinical practice. Ultimately, this review provides valuable insights into the use of HD-PA therapy in COVID-19 pneumonia patients and paves the way for further research in this critical area. By exploring the benefits and risks of this treatment option, we hope to provide healthcare professionals with the information they need to make informed decisions about the best course of treatment for their patients.}, } @article {pmid37206388, year = {2023}, author = {Yang, LF and Ling, M and Kacherovsky, N and Pun, SH}, title = {Aptamers 101: aptamer discovery and in vitro applications in biosensors and separations.}, journal = {Chemical science}, volume = {14}, number = {19}, pages = {4961-4978}, pmid = {37206388}, issn = {2041-6520}, abstract = {Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids that bind and recognize targets much like antibodies. Recently, aptamers have garnered increased interest due to their unique properties, including inexpensive production, simple chemical modification, and long-term stability. At the same time, aptamers possess similar binding affinity and specificity as their protein counterpart. In this review, we discuss the aptamer discovery process as well as aptamer applications to biosensors and separations. In the discovery section, we describe the major steps of the library selection process for aptamers, called systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). We highlight common approaches and emerging strategies in SELEX, from starting library selection to aptamer-target binding characterization. In the applications section, we first evaluate recently developed aptamer biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 virus detection, including electrochemical aptamer-based sensors and lateral flow assays. Then we discuss aptamer-based separations for partitioning different molecules or cell types, especially for purifying T cell subsets for therapeutic applications. Overall, aptamers are promising biomolecular tools and the aptamer field is primed for expansion in biosensing and cell separation.}, } @article {pmid37206298, year = {2023}, author = {Robertshaw, M and Kershaw, CD}, title = {Post COVID Interstitial Lung Abnormalities-Incidence and Management.}, journal = {Current pulmonology reports}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {64-69}, pmid = {37206298}, issn = {2199-2428}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to summarize the available literature to identify the incidence and risk factors for persistent interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs) following hospitalization for COVID-19. The current and prospective treatment options are reviewed in an effort to help pulmonary practitioners care for this burgeoning patient population.

RECENT FINDINGS: Statistical modeling suggests that 11.7% of all patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have irreversible fibrotic features on long-term follow-up imaging.

SUMMARY: The available evidence suggests that up to 30% of patients have ILAs following COVID-19 hospitalization. The radiographic abnormalities improve or resolve in a majority of these patients. However, estimates suggest that up to one-third of these patients have irreversible fibrotic features. Clinical trials of the impact of anti-fibrotic agents are ongoing. As there continue to be thousands of COVID-19 hospitalizations in the USA each week, the management of post-COVID ILAs will become a common problem for the pulmonary practitioner.}, } @article {pmid37205134, year = {2023}, author = {Ponti, M}, title = {Screen time and preschool children: Promoting health and development in a digital world.}, journal = {Paediatrics & child health}, volume = {28}, number = {3}, pages = {184-202}, pmid = {37205134}, issn = {1205-7088}, abstract = {COVID-19 transformed the family media environment and spurred research on the effects of screen media exposure and use on young children. This update of a 2017 CPS statement re-examines the potential benefits and risks of screen media in children younger than 5 years, with focus on developmental, psychosocial, and physical health. Four evidence-based principles-minimizing, mitigating, mindfully using, and modelling healthy use of screens-continue to guide children's early experience with a rapidly changing media landscape. Knowing how young children learn and develop informs best practice for health care providers and early years professionals (e.g., early childhood educators, child care providers). Anticipatory guidance should now include child and family screen use in (and beyond) pandemic conditions.}, } @article {pmid37205111, year = {2023}, author = {Poto, R and Loffredo, S and Marone, G and Di Salvatore, A and de Paulis, A and Schroeder, JT and Varricchi, G}, title = {Basophils beyond allergic and parasitic diseases.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1190034}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1190034}, pmid = {37205111}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {Basophils bind IgE via FcεRI-αβγ2, which they uniquely share only with mast cells. In doing so, they can rapidly release mediators that are hallmark of allergic disease. This fundamental similarity, along with some morphological features shared by the two cell types, has long brought into question the biological significance that basophils mediate beyond that of mast cells. Unlike mast cells, which mature and reside in tissues, basophils are released into circulation from the bone marrow (constituting 1% of leukocytes), only to infiltrate tissues under specific inflammatory conditions. Evidence is emerging that basophils mediate non-redundant roles in allergic disease and, unsuspectingly, are implicated in a variety of other pathologies [e.g., myocardial infarction, autoimmunity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibrosis, cancer, etc.]. Recent findings strengthen the notion that these cells mediate protection from parasitic infections, whereas related studies implicate basophils promoting wound healing. Central to these functions is the substantial evidence that human and mouse basophils are increasingly implicated as important sources of IL-4 and IL-13. Nonetheless, much remains unclear regarding the role of basophils in pathology vs. homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the dichotomous (protective and/or harmful) roles of basophils in a wide spectrum of non-allergic disorders.}, } @article {pmid37205106, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, M and Zhang, Y and Li, C and Chang, W and Zhang, L}, title = {The relationship between gut microbiota and COVID-19 progression: new insights into immunopathogenesis and treatment.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1180336}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1180336}, pmid = {37205106}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has posed a global health crisis. Increasing evidence underlines the key role of competent immune responses in resisting SARS-CoV-2 infection and manifests the disastrous consequence of host immune dysregulation. Elucidating the mechanisms responsible for deregulated host immunity in COVID-19 may provide a theoretical basis for further research on new treatment modalities. Gut microbiota comprises trillions of microorganisms colonizing the human gastrointestinal tract and has a vital role in immune homeostasis and the gut-lung crosstalk. Particularly, SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to the disruption of gut microbiota equilibrium, a condition called gut dysbiosis. Due to its regulatory effect on host immunity, gut microbiota has recently received considerable attention in the field of SARS-CoV-2 immunopathology. Imbalanced gut microbiota can fuel COVID-19 progression through production of bioactive metabolites, intestinal metabolism, enhancement of the cytokine storm, exaggeration of inflammation, regulation of adaptive immunity and other aspects. In this review, we provide an overview of the alterations in gut microbiota in COVID-19 patients, and their effects on individuals' susceptibility to viral infection and COVID-19 progression. Moreover, we summarize currently available data on the critical role of the bidirectional regulation between intestinal microbes and host immunity in SARS-CoV-2-induced pathology, and highlight the immunomodulatory mechanisms of gut microbiota contributing to COVID-19 pathogenesis. In addition, we discuss the therapeutic benefits and future perspectives of microbiota-targeted interventions including faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), bacteriotherapy and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in COVID-19 treatment.}, } @article {pmid37205025, year = {2022}, author = {Cattie, JE and Pike, M and LoPilato, A and Crowell, A and Cullum, K}, title = {Healing in Health Care: Mental Health Promotion, Advocacy, and Voluntarism in Response to COVID-19.}, journal = {Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {277-284}, doi = {10.1176/appi.focus.20220049}, pmid = {37205025}, issn = {1541-4094}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic increased many known risk factors for mental health problems. In the context of overwhelmed health systems and resource and staffing shortages, the mental health needs of frontline health care workers (HCWs) gained attention as a major public health concern and a threat to high-quality care delivery. In response, mental health promotion initiatives were quickly developed to meet the demands of the public health crisis. Two years later, the context for psychotherapy has changed, especially as it pertains to the health care workforce. Particularly salient experiences-grief, burnout, moral injury, compassion fatigue, and racial trauma-have become routinely discussed as part of everyday clinical practice. Service programs have become more responsive to the needs, schedules, and identities of HCWs. In addition, mental health and other HCWs have contributed to advocacy and volunteer initiatives promoting health equity, culturally responsive care, and access to care across a range of settings. In this article, the authors review the benefits of these activities to individuals, organizations, and communities and summarize example programs. Many of these initiatives began in response to the acute public health crisis; however, engaging in these ways and spaces holds promise for increasing connection and prioritizing equity and structural change over the long term.}, } @article {pmid37205019, year = {2022}, author = {Eldredge, D and Langenecker, SA and Lucynski, RK and Schreiner, MW}, title = {The Rapid Evolution of Crisis Mental Health Services in Utah: Opportunities and Challenges as a Result of the Global Pandemic.}, journal = {Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {285-291}, doi = {10.1176/appi.focus.20220047}, pmid = {37205019}, issn = {1541-4094}, abstract = {Our country is facing a resurgence of behavioral health crises from over the past 30 years, further illuminated and exacerbated by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Increasing suicide crises among youths over recent decades, untreated anxiety and depression, and serious mental illness are signs of the need for improvements in accessible, affordable, timely, and comprehensive behavioral health services. Against the backdrop of high suicide rates and low behavioral health services in Utah, statewide collaborators aligned with a common goal: deliver crisis services to anyone, anytime, and anywhere. After its initiation in 2011, the integrated behavioral health crisis response system continued to expand and excel, ultimately improving access and referral to services, flattening suicide rates, and reducing stigma. The global pandemic further motivated the expansion of Utah's crisis response system. This review focuses on the unique experiences of the Huntsman Mental Health Institute as a catalyst and partner in these changes. Our goals are to: inform about unique Utah partnerships and actions in the crisis mental health space, describe initial steps and outcomes, highlight continuing challenges, discuss pandemic-specific barriers and opportunities, and explore the long-term vision to improve quality and access to mental health resources.}, } @article {pmid35786340, year = {2023}, author = {Khatun, A and Tamilanban, T and Chitra, V}, title = {Psychiatric Manifestations of COVID-19: A Literature Review.}, journal = {CNS & neurological disorders drug targets}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {892-905}, doi = {10.2174/1871527321666220701152821}, pmid = {35786340}, issn = {1996-3181}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; Inflammation ; *Mental Disorders/etiology ; Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) occurs due to the highly contagious severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It uses angiotensin-converting enzyme- 2 (ACE-2) as its primary receptor to enter the host cell. Recent reports suggest that this pathogen also has a large impact on the CNS alongside other organs. Various inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, chemokines, and numerous metabolites, are poorly regulated during infection as well as in several psychiatric diseases, which leads to conditions of hypoxia and cytokine storm. The persistence of COVID-19 infection may also result in aggravation of the already present neuro-psychiatric symptoms in patients.

METHODS: We systematically searched various sources of journals and assessed the varied neurological routes of propagation and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 neurotoxicity, like ACE2-mediated neuroinvasion induced hypoxia and the cytokine storm syndrome. Several case studies were also referred to obtain a better idea of the current mental health scenario as a consequence of infection and inflammation due to SARS-CoV-2.

CONCLUSION: Several risk factors for the causation of mental health issues during as well as after the infection include female gender, presence of necrosis, and pain in avascular regions. Most psychiatric disorders are directly associated with the socioeconomic and psychosocial changes that have occurred as a consequence of the pandemic. These psychiatric manifestations have only started to unravel, which calls for the development of faster means of diagnosis and integrated pharmacological and epidemiological studies to curb the growing rate of neuronal complications as well as mortality.}, } @article {pmid37205017, year = {2022}, author = {Fani, N and White, D and Marshall-Lee, E and Hampton-Anderson, J}, title = {Antiracist Practice in Psychiatry: Principles and Recommendations.}, journal = {Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {270-276}, doi = {10.1176/appi.focus.20220045}, pmid = {37205017}, issn = {1541-4094}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified mental health disparities among people of color, particularly for Black, Latinx, and American Indian populations. In addition to experiencing overt hostility and systemic injustice, people from marginalized racial-ethnic groups experience prejudice and bias from clinicians that has disrupted rapport and trust in mental health systems; these experiences, in turn, have deepened these health disparities. In this article, the authors describe factors that have served to perpetuate mental health disparities and outline key components of antiracist practice in psychiatry (and in mental health practice, more generally). With lessons learned in recent years, this article presents practical ways to incorporate antiracist practices into clinical care.}, } @article {pmid37205014, year = {2022}, author = {Merz, EL and Gholizadeh, S}, title = {Mental and Physical Health Concerns in the Context of COVID-19: Opportunities and Applications for Behavioral Medicine.}, journal = {Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)}, volume = {20}, number = {3}, pages = {292-300}, doi = {10.1176/appi.focus.20220044}, pmid = {37205014}, issn = {1541-4094}, abstract = {Numerous physical and mental health concerns have been documented in the context of COVID-19, and it is likely that patients, survivors, frontline health care workers, and other affected individuals will present to psychiatry for treatment. Behavioral medicine, an interdisciplinary field that is defined by a behavioral and biomedical conceptualization of clinical care, offers an opportunity for collaboration with psychiatry and other health care providers to meet the myriad needs resulting from the pandemic. This review summarizes a conceptual framework of behavioral medicine and clinical health psychology, COVID-19-related quality of life concerns that may be applicable to behavioral medicine referrals, clinical assessment directions, and intervention opportunities. The review combines both findings specific to COVID-19 and general behavioral medicine principles with an overall goal of providing a basic introduction to behavioral medicine practice, applications, and opportunities for management of medical and psychological symptoms.}, } @article {pmid37204997, year = {2023}, author = {Narasimhan, B and Calambur, A and Moras, E and Wu, L and Aronow, W}, title = {Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome in COVID-19: A Contemporary Review of Mechanisms, Clinical Course and Management.}, journal = {Vascular health and risk management}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {303-316}, doi = {10.2147/VHRM.S380270}, pmid = {37204997}, issn = {1178-2048}, abstract = {The long-term implications of COVID-19 have garnered increasing interest in recent months, with Long-COVID impacting over 65 million individuals worldwide. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) has emerged as an important component of the Long-COVID umbrella, estimated to affect between 2 and 14% of survivors. POTS remains very challenging to diagnose and manage - this review aims to provide a brief overview of POTS as a whole and goes on to summarize the available literature pertaining to POTS in the setting of COVID-19. We provide a review of available clinical reports, outline proposed pathophysiological mechanisms and end with a brief note on management considerations.}, } @article {pmid37204984, year = {2023}, author = {Maggu, G and Verma, V and Chaudhury, S and Indla, V}, title = {Epidemic of Depression and Anxiety in child and adolescent population during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta analysis of the prevalence of depression and anxiety.}, journal = {Indian journal of psychiatry}, volume = {65}, number = {3}, pages = {299-309}, doi = {10.4103/indianjpsychiatry.indianjpsychiatry_700_21}, pmid = {37204984}, issn = {0019-5545}, abstract = {COVID-19 has caused mayhem in the life of people. It has disrupted the social fabric of life. The children and adolescent population has been particularly affected by its direct and indirect effects. This systematic review aims to find the prevalence of depression and anxiety in children and adolescent age groups. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for finding the prevalence of depression and anxiety. We found the total number of participants to be 71,016. A random effect model was used for conducting meta-analysis. The prevalence of depression was mentioned in 17 studies of 23 and the pooled prevalence was 27% [95% confidence interval: 21%-36%] and heterogeneity (I[2] statistics; P <.00001) was 100%. The prevalence of anxiety was found in 20 studies of 23 and the pooled anxiety prevalence was 25% (95% confidence interval: 16%-41%) and heterogeneity (I[2] statistics; P < .00001) was found to be 100%. The summary of the findings has been provided. Due to high heterogeneity, moderator analysis was performed separately for depression and anxiety subgroups. The study design consisted of cross-sectional studies and some studies conducted through online surveys. The age range varied considerably from 1 year to 19 years; 5 studies had participants aged more than 19 years, but the mean age of the total sample was less than 18 years. We conclude that indeed there is a mental health epidemic among the child and adolescent population. We recommend early intervention and tailored made strategies should for management. As the pandemic is enduring, rigorous monitoring should be done. This age group is under extra pressure owing to a large uncertainty about their studies as well their future.}, } @article {pmid37204696, year = {2023}, author = {Sabbatucci, M and Vitiello, A and Clemente, S and Zovi, A and Boccellino, M and Ferrara, F and Cimmino, C and Langella, R and Ponzo, A and Stefanelli, P and Rezza, G}, title = {Omicron variant evolution on vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.}, journal = {Inflammopharmacology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37204696}, issn = {1568-5608}, abstract = {The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 responsible for the global COVID-19 pandemic has caused almost 760 million confirmed cases and 7 million deaths worldwide, as of end-February 2023. Since the beginning of the first COVID-19 case, several virus variants have emerged: Alpha (B1.1.7), Beta (B135.1), Gamma (P.1), Delta (B.1.617.2) and then Omicron (B.1.1.529) and its sublineages. All variants have diversified in transmissibility, virulence, and pathogenicity. All the newly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants appear to contain some similar mutations associated with greater "evasiveness" of the virus to immune defences. From early 2022 onward, several Omicron subvariants named BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4, and BA.5, with comparable mutation forms, have followed. After the wave of contagions caused by Omicron BA.5, a new Indian variant named Centaurus BA.2.75 and its new subvariant BA.2.75.2, a second-generation evolution of the Omicron variant BA.2, have recently been identified. From early evidence, it appears that this new variant has higher affinity for the cell entry receptor ACE-2, making it potentially able to spread very fast. According to the latest studies, the BA.2.75.2 variant may be able to evade more antibodies in the bloodstream generated by vaccination or previous infection, and it may be more resistant to antiviral and monoclonal antibody drug treatments. In this manuscript, the authors highlight and describe the latest evidences and critical issues have emerged on the new SARS-CoV-2 variants.}, } @article {pmid37203288, year = {2023}, author = {Arabi, M and Al-Najjar, Y and Mhaimeed, N and Salameh, MA and Paul, P and AlAnni, J and Abdelati, AA and Laswi, I and Khanjar, B and Al-Ali, D and Elshafeey, A and Mhaimeed, O and Burney, Z and D'Souza, A and Sinha, P and Bhatti, M and Pillai, KV and Homssi, M and Bshesh, K and Yagan, L and Zakaria, D}, title = {Severity of the Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant compared with the previous lineages: A systematic review.}, journal = {Journal of cellular and molecular medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/jcmm.17747}, pmid = {37203288}, issn = {1582-4934}, abstract = {The Omicron variant was first detected in October 2021, which evolved from the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and was found to possess many mutations. Immune evasion was one of the notable consequences of these mutations. Despite Omicron exhibiting increased transmissibility, the rates of hospitalizations and deaths among patients infected with this variant were substantially lower when compared to other strains. However, concluding that the Omicron variant is less severe than other variants of SARS-CoV-2 requires consideration of multiple factors, including the vaccination status of infected patients as well as any previous infections with other variants. This review compiled data about any reported indicators of severity in Omicron-infected patients, including studies comparing Omicron with other variants while adjusting for confounders. A comprehensive search was conducted using different databases to target any studies about Omicron. In total, 62 studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in this study. Many studies reported a significantly reduced risk of hospitalization, ICU admission, need for oxygenation/ventilation, and death in Omicron-infected patients compared to patients infected with other variants, such as Delta. Some studies, however, reported comparable severity in Omicron infected patients as to other variants emphasizing a substantial risk for severe illness. Furthermore, the COVID-19 vaccines were less effective against Omicron relative to previous lineages, except after receiving the booster dose. One study recommended vaccination during pregnancy, which may help prevent future cases of severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia in neonates and young infants due to the transfer of humoral response from the mother.}, } @article {pmid37203020, year = {2023}, author = {Gurnani, B and Kaur, K and Chaudhary, S and Balakrishnan, H}, title = {Ophthalmic manifestations of monkeypox infection.}, journal = {Indian journal of ophthalmology}, volume = {71}, number = {5}, pages = {1687-1697}, doi = {10.4103/ijo.IJO_2032_22}, pmid = {37203020}, issn = {1998-3689}, abstract = {After the global COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an alarming concern with the monkeypox (mpox) outbreak, which has affected more than 110 countries worldwide. Monkeypox virus is a doublestranded DNA virus of the genus Orthopox of the Poxviridae family, which causes this zoonotic disease. Recently, the mpox outbreak was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). Monkeypox patients can present with ophthalmic manifestation and ophthalmologists have a role to play in managing this rare entity. Apart from causing systemic involvement such as skin lesions, respiratory infection and involvement of body fluids, Monkeypox related ophthalmic disease (MPXROD) causes varied ocular manifestations such as lid and adnexal involvement, periorbital and lid lesion, periorbital rash, conjunctivitis, blepharocounctivitis and keratitis. A detailed literature review shows few reports on MPXROD infections with limited overview on management strategies. The current review article is aimed to provide the ophthalmologist with an overview of the disease with a spotlight on ophthalmic features. We briefly discuss the morphology of the MPX, various modes of transmission, an infectious pathway of the virus, and the host immune response. A brief overview of the systemic manifestations and complications has also been elucidated. We especially highlight the detailed ophthalmic manifestations of mpox, their management, and prevention of vision threatening sequelae.}, } @article {pmid37202529, year = {2023}, author = {Alabi, QK and Oyedeji, AS and Kayode, OO and Kajewole-Alabi, DI}, title = {Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mother and child health in Sub-Saharan Africa - a review.}, journal = {Pediatric research}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37202529}, issn = {1530-0447}, abstract = {Prior to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a decrease in the maternal mortality rate in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) by 38%. This corresponds to a decline of 2.9% on average each year. In spite of this reduction, it falls short of the 6.4% annual rate required to reach the global Sustainable Development Goal of 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. This study reviewed the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and child health. Due to the major challenge of the health systems and lack of strategies in preparation for emergencies, several studies have reported significant impacts of COVID-19 on women and children in SSA. Global estimates of the indirect impacts of COVID-19 suggested a 38.6% increase in maternal mortality and a 44.7% increase in child mortality per month across 118 low- and middle-income countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has threatened the continuity of essential mother-to-child healthcare service delivery in SSA. It is important for health systems to address these challenges as lessons learnt for future health crises and to develop adequate response policies and programs for emerging diseases of public health importance. IMPACTS: This literature review will provide in-depth insight into the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and child health, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. The findings of this literature review suggest to the concerned health systems the need to prioritize women's antennal care for the safety of the baby. The findings of this literature review will aid the basis for intervention in maternal and child health and reproductive health in general.}, } @article {pmid37202144, year = {2023}, author = {Williamson, L and McArthur, E and Dolan, H and Levesque, JF and Sutherland, K}, title = {Horizon scanning, rapid reviews and living evidence to support decision-making: lessons from the work of the Critical Intelligence Unit in New South Wales, Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {BMJ open}, volume = {13}, number = {5}, pages = {e071003}, doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071003}, pmid = {37202144}, issn = {2044-6055}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has seen an increase in rapidly disseminated scientific evidence and highlighted that traditional evidence synthesis methods, such as time and resource intensive systematic reviews, may not be successful in responding to rapidly evolving policy and practice needs. In New South Wales (NSW) Australia, the Critical Intelligence Unit (CIU) was established early in the pandemic and acted as an intermediary organisation. It brought together clinical, analytical, research, organisational and policy experts to provide timely and considered advice to decision-makers. This paper provides an overview of the functions, challenges and future implications of the CIU, particularly the Evidence Integration Team. Outputs from the Evidence Integration Team included a daily evidence digest, rapid evidence checks and living evidence tables. These products have been widely disseminated and used to inform policy decisions in NSW, making valuable impacts. Changes and innovations to evidence generation, synthesis and dissemination in response to the COVID-19 pandemic provide an opportunity to shift the way evidence is used in future. The experience and methods of the CIU have potential to be adapted and applied to the broader health system nationally and internationally.}, } @article {pmid37202030, year = {2023}, author = {Keshaviah, A and Diamond, MB and Wade, MJ and Scarpino, SV and , }, title = {Wastewater monitoring can anchor global disease surveillance systems.}, journal = {The Lancet. Global health}, volume = {11}, number = {6}, pages = {e976-e981}, doi = {10.1016/S2214-109X(23)00170-5}, pmid = {37202030}, issn = {2214-109X}, abstract = {To inform the development of global wastewater monitoring systems, we surveyed programmes in 43 countries. Most programmes monitored predominantly urban populations. In high-income countries (HICs), composite sampling at centralised treatment plants was most common, whereas grab sampling from surface waters, open drains, and pit latrines was more typical in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Almost all programmes analysed samples in-country, with an average processing time of 2·3 days in HICs and 4·5 days in LMICs. Whereas 59% of HICs regularly monitored wastewater for SARS-CoV-2 variants, only 13% of LMICs did so. Most programmes share their wastewater data internally, with partnering organisations, but not publicly. Our findings show the richness of the existing wastewater monitoring ecosystem. With additional leadership, funding, and implementation frameworks, thousands of individual wastewater initiatives can coalesce into an integrated, sustainable network for disease surveillance-one that minimises the risk of overlooking future global health threats.}, } @article {pmid37201972, year = {2023}, author = {Cosby, M and Shah, DD and Lopez, S and Holland-Cecil, J and Keiter, M and Lewis, C and Al-Mateen, CS}, title = {All Shades of Anxiety: A Review of Therapeutic and Psychotropic Considerations for Child and Adolescent Youth of Color.}, journal = {Child and adolescent psychiatric clinics of North America}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {631-653}, doi = {10.1016/j.chc.2023.02.007}, pmid = {37201972}, issn = {1558-0490}, abstract = {The literature on anxiety in Black, Indigenous, and other persons of color youth is a developing area. This article highlights distinct areas for the clinician to consider in working with these populations. We highlight prevalence and incidence, race-related stress, social media, substance use, spirituality, the impact of social determinants of health (including COVID-19 and the Syndemic), as well as treatment considerations. Our aim is to contribute to the readers' developing cultural humility.}, } @article {pmid37201965, year = {2023}, author = {Fortuna, LR and Brown, IC and Lewis Woods, GG and Porche, MV}, title = {The Impact of COVID-19 on Anxiety Disorders in Youth: Coping with Stress, Worry, and Recovering from a Pandemic.}, journal = {Child and adolescent psychiatric clinics of North America}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {531-542}, doi = {10.1016/j.chc.2023.02.002}, pmid = {37201965}, issn = {1558-0490}, abstract = {The primary objective of this article is to consider the impact of the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic on pediatric anxiety from both a clinical and system-of-care lens. This includes illustrating the impact of the pandemic on pediatric anxiety disorders and consideration of factors important for special populations, including children with disabilities and learning differences. We consider the clinical, educational, and public health implications for addressing mental health needs like anxiety disorders and how we might promote better outcomes, particularly for vulnerable children and youth.}, } @article {pmid37201964, year = {2023}, author = {Warner, EN and Ammerman, RT and Glauser, TA and Pestian, JP and Agasthya, G and Strawn, JR}, title = {Developmental Epidemiology of Pediatric Anxiety Disorders.}, journal = {Child and adolescent psychiatric clinics of North America}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {511-530}, doi = {10.1016/j.chc.2023.02.001}, pmid = {37201964}, issn = {1558-0490}, abstract = {This review summarizes the developmental epidemiology of childhood and adolescent anxiety disorders. It discusses the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, sex differences, longitudinal course, and stability of anxiety disorders in addition to recurrence and remission. The trajectory of anxiety disorders-whether homotypic (ie, the same anxiety disorder persists over time) or heterotypic (ie, an anxiety disorder shifts to a different diagnosis over time) is discussed with regard to social, generalized, and separation anxiety disorders as well as specific phobia, and panic disorder. Finally, strategies for early recognition, prevention, and treatment of disorders are discussed.}, } @article {pmid37201963, year = {2023}, author = {Warner, EN and Strawn, JR}, title = {Risk Factors for Pediatric Anxiety Disorders.}, journal = {Child and adolescent psychiatric clinics of North America}, volume = {32}, number = {3}, pages = {485-510}, doi = {10.1016/j.chc.2022.10.001}, pmid = {37201963}, issn = {1558-0490}, abstract = {This review summarizes risk factors for developing anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. A surfeit of risk factors, including temperament, family environment (eg, parenting style), environmental exposures (eg, particulate matter), and cognitive factors (eg, threat bias), increases the risk of anxiety in children. These risk factors can significantly impact the trajectory of pediatric anxiety disorders. The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection on anxiety disorders in children is discussed in addition to its public health implications. Identifying risk factors for pediatric anxiety disorders creates a scaffold for the development of prevention strategies and for reducing anxiety-related disability.}, } @article {pmid37201600, year = {2023}, author = {Oloye, FF and Xie, Y and Challis, JK and Femi-Oloye, OP and Brinkmann, M and McPhedran, KN and Jones, PD and Servos, MR and Giesy, JP}, title = {Understanding common population markers for SARS-CoV-2 RNA normalization in wastewater - A review.}, journal = {Chemosphere}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {138682}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138682}, pmid = {37201600}, issn = {1879-1298}, abstract = {Wastewater monitoring and epidemiology have seen renewed interest during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, there is an increasing need to normalize wastewater-derived viral loads in local populations. Chemical tracers, both exogenous and endogenous compounds, have proven to be more stable and reliable for normalization than biological indicators. However, differing instrumentation and extraction methods can make it difficult to compare results. This review examines current extraction and quantification methods for ten common population indicators: creatinine, coprostanol, nicotine, cotinine, sucralose, acesulfame, androstenedione 5-hydroindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), caffeine, and 1,7-dimethyluric acid. Some wastewater parameters such as ammonia, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and daily flowrate were also evaluated. The analytical methods included direct injection, dilute and shoot, liquid/liquid, and solid phase extraction (SPE). Creatine, acesulfame, nicotine, 5-HIAA and androstenedione have been analysed by direct injection into LC-MS; however, most authors prefer to include SPE steps to avoid matrix effects. Both LC-MS and GC-MS have been successfully used to quantify coprostanol in wastewater, and the other selected indicators have been quantified successfully with LC-MS. Acidification to stabilize the sample before freezing to maintain the integrity of samples has been reported to be beneficial. However, there are arguments both for and against working at acidic pHs. Wastewater parameters mentioned earlier are quick and easy to quantify, but the data does not always represent the human population effectively. A preference for population indicators originating solely from humans is apparent. This review summarises methods employed for chemical indicators in wastewater, provides a basis for choosing an appropriate extraction and analysis method, and highlights the utility of accurate chemical tracer data for wastewater-based epidemiology.}, } @article {pmid37201456, year = {2023}, author = {Rahimi Mansour, F and Keyvanfar, A and Najafiarab, H and Rajaei Firouzabadi, S and Sefidgar, S and Hooshmand Chayijan, S and Tarom, M and Fadaei, M and Farzaneh, F and Karimzadeh Bardeei, L and Tehrani, S}, title = {Menstrual disturbances following COVID-19 vaccination: A probable puzzle about the role of endocrine and immune pathways.}, journal = {Journal of reproductive immunology}, volume = {158}, number = {}, pages = {103952}, doi = {10.1016/j.jri.2023.103952}, pmid = {37201456}, issn = {1872-7603}, abstract = {Menstruation is a monthly shedding of the uterine wall, presented by menstrual bleeding in women of reproductive age. Menstruation is regulated by fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone, as well as other endocrine and immune pathways. Many women experienced menstrual disturbances after vaccination against the novel coronavirus in the last two years. Vaccine-induced menstrual disturbances have led to discomfort and concern among reproductive-age women, such that some decided not to receive the subsequent doses of the vaccine. Although many vaccinated women report these menstrual disturbances, the mechanism is still poorly understood. This review article discusses the endocrine and immune changes following COVID-19 vaccination and the possible mechanisms of vaccine-related menstrual disturbances.}, } @article {pmid37201437, year = {2023}, author = {Yao, XD and Li, Y and Jiang, H and Ma, J and Wen, J}, title = {COVID-19 pandemic and neonatal birth weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Public health}, volume = {220}, number = {}, pages = {10-17}, doi = {10.1016/j.puhe.2023.04.009}, pmid = {37201437}, issn = {1476-5616}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Lockdown was implemented in many countries during the pandemic, which led to myriad changes in pregnant women's lives. However, the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on neonatal outcomes remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate the association between the pandemic and neonatal birth weight.

STUDY DESIGN: This was a systematic review and meta-analysis of the previous literature.

METHODS: We searched the MEDLINE and Embase databases up to May 2022 and extracted 36 eligible studies that compared neonatal birth weight between the pandemic and the prepandemic period. The following outcomes were included: mean birth weight, low birth weight (LBW), very low birth weight (VLBW), macrosomia, small for gestational age (SGA), very small for gestational age (VSGA), and large for gestational age (LGA). Statistical heterogeneity among studies was assessed to determine whether a random effects model or fixed effects model was conducted.

RESULTS: Of the 4514 studies identified, 36 articles were eligible for inclusion. A total of 1,883,936 neonates during the pandemic and 4,667,133 neonates during the prepandemic were reported. We identified a significant increase in mean birth weight (pooled mean difference [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 15.06 [10.36, 19.76], I[2] = 0.0%, 12 studies) and a reduction in VLBW (pooled OR [95% CI] = 0.86 [0.77, 0.97], I[2] = 55.4%, 12 studies). No overall effect was identified for other outcomes: LBW, macrosomia, SGA, VSGA, and LGA. There was publication bias for mean birth weight with a borderline significance (Egger's P = 0.050).

CONCLUSION: Pooled results showed the pandemic was significantly associated with an increase in mean birth weight and a reduction in VLBW, but not for other outcomes. This review provided clues about the indirect effects of the pandemic on neonatal birth weight and more healthcare measures needed to improve neonatal long-term health.}, } @article {pmid37195773, year = {2023}, author = {Stempel, JM and Podoltsev, NA and Dosani, T}, title = {Supportive Care for Patients With Myelodysplastic Syndromes.}, journal = {Cancer journal (Sudbury, Mass.)}, volume = {29}, number = {3}, pages = {168-178}, pmid = {37195773}, issn = {1540-336X}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *Myelodysplastic Syndromes/therapy ; *Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute ; *Iron Overload/complications ; Prognosis ; }, abstract = {Myelodysplastic syndromes are a heterogeneous group of bone marrow disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, progressive cytopenias, and an innate capability of progressing to acute myeloid leukemia. The most common causes of morbidity and mortality are complications related to myelodysplastic syndromes rather than progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Although supportive care measures are applicable to all patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, they are especially essential in patients with lower-risk disease who have a better prognosis compared with their higher-risk counterparts and require longer-term monitoring of disease and treatment-related complications. In this review, we will address the most frequent complications and supportive care interventions used in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, including transfusion support, management of iron overload, antimicrobial prophylaxis, important considerations in the era of COVID-19 (coronavirus infectious disease 2019), role of routine immunizations, and palliative care in the myelodysplastic syndrome population.}, } @article {pmid37195115, year = {2023}, author = {Lejay, N and Salvioni Chiabotti, P and Ducrot, A and Allali, G and Nehme, M}, title = {[Pharmacological trials evaluating treatment options for neuropsychiatric symptoms in post-COVID. A narrative review].}, journal = {Revue medicale suisse}, volume = {19}, number = {827}, pages = {984-991}, doi = {10.53738/REVMED.2023.19.827.984}, pmid = {37195115}, issn = {1660-9379}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Quality of Life ; *Mental Disorders/drug therapy/etiology ; }, abstract = {Post-COVID prevalence's is estimated at 10 % in the general population. The neuropsychiatric symptoms, which are frequent (up to 30 %), can severely affect the quality of life of patients affected by this condition, notably by significantly reducing their working ability. To date, no pharmacologic treatment is available for post-COVID, apart from symptomatic treatments. A large number of pharmacological clinical trials for post-COVID are underway since 2021. A number of these trials targets neuropsychiatric symptoms, based on the various underlying pathophysiological hypotheses. The objective of this narrative review is to provide an overview of these ongoing trials targeting neuropsychiatric symptoms in post-COVID.}, } @article {pmid37031015, year = {2023}, author = {Davis, M and Nanagas, C and Carr, M and Cooper, J}, title = {Application of lean principles in a medicare insurance counseling service learning course.}, journal = {Currents in pharmacy teaching & learning}, volume = {15}, number = {3}, pages = {274-282}, pmid = {37031015}, issn = {1877-1300}, mesh = {Aged ; Humans ; United States ; *Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; Medicare ; Counseling ; Learning ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lean principles are increasingly applied in healthcare to improve quality and cost. A service-learning course providing Medicare insurance counseling requiring rapid transformation due to the COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity for pharmacy students to apply lean skills.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY: Students, already introduced to lean skills earlier in their curriculum, enrolled in the insurance education certificate during their third year in Fall 2020. Students were oriented to the mandated service delivery restrictions. After a review of lean principles, students analyzed existing process for in-person counseling using a value-stream map. Students worked in teams to complete a cause analysis and develop solutions. Collaboratively, students clarified the value of the Medicare insurance counseling services to the community, adapted these components to accommodate environmental risk, and developed standard work for client acquisition, communication procedures, and service delivery to optimize client satisfaction and safety. Outcomes compared before and after application of lean skills included number of pharmacy students completing insurance counselor training, number of clients counseled, and the mean out-of-pocket savings identified for Medicare beneficiaries.

FINDINGS: Students applied lean skills to transform an insurance counseling service by developing and implementing a future state value-stream map and new standard work. Overall Medicare insurance counseling service metrics decreased compared to previous years, but the service was sustained despite pandemic restrictions. Application of lean skills and service redesign provided a method for students to provide services via telepharmacy. Application of lean principles increased student engagement with the course and provided an opportunity to practice quality improvement skills. Lean provides a flexible set of skills that can be introduced and applied in different pharmacy instructional settings.}, } @article {pmid36791990, year = {2023}, author = {Umamoto, K and Horiba, M}, title = {Lung abscess as a secondary infection of COVID-19: A case report and literature review.}, journal = {Journal of infection and chemotherapy : official journal of the Japan Society of Chemotherapy}, volume = {29}, number = {7}, pages = {700-702}, pmid = {36791990}, issn = {1437-7780}, mesh = {Male ; Young Adult ; Humans ; Adolescent ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Lung Abscess/drug therapy ; *Coinfection ; Lung/diagnostic imaging ; }, abstract = {A 16-year-old male was admitted with persistent fever, diarrhea, and anorexia 8 days after the diagnosis of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Radiological examination of the lungs showed a cavitary lesion with an air-fluid level, but no apparent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pneumonia. The lesion was diagnosed as a lung abscess after COVID-19. Treatment with antimicrobials was initiated, which attenuated symptoms and the lung lesion. Specific pathogens were not detected despite repeated sputum cultures, which suggested that lung abscess was caused by oral bacteria as a secondary infection of COVID-19. To date, several cases of lung abscess as a complication of COVID-19 have been reported. However, the majority of cases occurred after intubation to treat COVID-19, and there have been no cases involving young adults. This healthy young patient may have developed lung abscess due to COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid36693416, year = {2023}, author = {Popovic, DS and Papanas, N and Koufakis, T and Kotsa, K and Mahmeed, WA and Al-Rasadi, K and Al-Alawi, K and Banach, M and Banerjee, Y and Ceriello, A and Cesur, M and Cosentino, F and Firenze, A and Galia, M and Goh, SY and Janez, A and Kalra, S and Kempler, P and Kapoor, N and Lessan, N and Lotufo, P and Rizvi, AA and Sahebkar, A and Santos, RD and Stoian, AP and Toth, PP and Viswanathan, V and Rizzo, M}, title = {Glucometabolic Perturbations in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Coronavirus Disease 2019: Causes, Consequences, and How to Counter Them Using Novel Antidiabetic Drugs - The CAPISCO International Expert Panel.}, journal = {Experimental and clinical endocrinology & diabetes : official journal, German Society of Endocrinology [and] German Diabetes Association}, volume = {131}, number = {5}, pages = {260-267}, doi = {10.1055/a-2019-1111}, pmid = {36693416}, issn = {1439-3646}, mesh = {Humans ; Hypoglycemic Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/drug therapy ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Dipeptidyl-Peptidase IV Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; *Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/therapeutic use ; Glucose ; }, abstract = {The growing amount of evidence suggests the existence of a bidirectional relation between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as these two conditions exacerbate each other, causing a significant healthcare and socioeconomic burden. The alterations in innate and adaptive cellular immunity, adipose tissue, alveolar and endothelial dysfunction, hypercoagulation, the propensity to an increased viral load, and chronic diabetic complications are all associated with glucometabolic perturbations of T2DM patients that predispose them to severe forms of COVID-19 and mortality. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection negatively impacts glucose homeostasis due to its effects on insulin sensitivity and β-cell function, further aggravating the preexisting glucometabolic perturbations in individuals with T2DM. Thus, the most effective ways are urgently needed for countering these glucometabolic disturbances occurring during acute COVID-19 illness in T2DM patients. The novel classes of antidiabetic medications (dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP-4is), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) are considered candidate drugs for this purpose. This review article summarizes current knowledge regarding glucometabolic disturbances during acute COVID-19 illness in T2DM patients and the potential ways to tackle them using novel antidiabetic medications. Recent observational data suggest that preadmission use of GLP-1 RAs and SGLT-2is are associated with decreased patient mortality, while DPP-4is is associated with increased in-hospital mortality of T2DM patients with COVID-19. Although these results provide further evidence for the widespread use of these two classes of medications in this COVID-19 era, dedicated randomized controlled trials analyzing the effects of in-hospital use of novel antidiabetic agents in T2DM patients with COVID-19 are needed.}, } @article {pmid36567282, year = {2023}, author = {Zalluhoğlu, C}, title = {A Review of COVID-19 Diagnostic Approaches in Computer Vision.}, journal = {Current medical imaging}, volume = {19}, number = {7}, pages = {695-712}, doi = {10.2174/1573405619666221222161832}, pmid = {36567282}, issn = {1573-4056}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Computers ; COVID-19 Testing ; }, abstract = {Computer vision has proven that it can solve many problems in the field of health in recent years. Processing the data obtained from the patients provided benefits in both disease detection and follow-up and control mechanisms. Studies on the use of computer vision for COVID-19, which is one of the biggest global health problems of the past years, are increasing daily. This study includes a preliminary review of COVID-19 computer vision research conducted in recent years. This review aims to help researchers who want to work in this field.}, } @article {pmid36200626, year = {2023}, author = {Liu, C and Staples, R and Gómez-Cerezo, MN and Ivanovski, S and Han, P}, title = {Emerging Technologies of Three-Dimensional Printing and Mobile Health in COVID-19 Immunity and Regenerative Dentistry.}, journal = {Tissue engineering. Part C, Methods}, volume = {29}, number = {5}, pages = {163-182}, doi = {10.1089/ten.TEC.2022.0160}, pmid = {36200626}, issn = {1937-3392}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Printing, Three-Dimensional ; *Telemedicine ; Dentistry ; }, abstract = {The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlights the importance of developing point-of-care (POC) antibody tests for monitoring the COVID-19 immune response upon viral infection or following vaccination, which requires three key aspects to achieve optimal monitoring, including three-dimensional (3D)-printed POC devices, mobile health (mHealth), and noninvasive sampling. As a critical tissue engineering concept, additive manufacturing (AM, also known as 3D printing) enables accurate control over the dimensional and architectural features of the devices. mHealth refers to the use of portable digital devices, such as smartphones, tablet computers, and fitness and medical wearables, to support health, which facilitates contact tracing, and telehealth consultations during the pandemic. Compared with invasive biosample (blood), saliva is of great importance in the spread and surveillance of COVID-19 as a noninvasive diagnostic method for virus detection and immune status monitoring. However, investigations into 3D-printed POC antibody test and mHealth using noninvasive saliva are relatively limited. Further exploration of 3D-printed antibody POC tests and mHealth applications to monitor antibody production for either disease onset or immune response following vaccination is warranted. This review briefly describes the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus and immune response after infection and vaccination, then discusses current widely used binding antibody tests using blood samples and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays on two-dimensional microplates before focusing upon emerging POC technological platforms, such as field-effect transistor biosensors, lateral flow assay, microfluidics, and AM for fabricating immunoassays, and the possibility of their combination with mHealth. This review proposes that noninvasive biofluid sampling combined with 3D POC antibody tests and mHealth technologies is a promising and novel approach for POC detection and surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 immune response. Furthermore, as key concepts in dentistry, the application of 3D printing and mHealth was also included to facilitate the appreciation of cutting edge techniques in regenerative dentistry. This review highlights the potential of 3D printing and mHealth in both COVID-19 immunity monitoring and regenerative dentistry.}, } @article {pmid35726407, year = {2022}, author = {Nouaili, N and Garner, R and Salehi, S and Rocca, M and Duncan, D}, title = {Key Radiological Features of COVID-19 Chest CT Scans with a Focus on Special Subgroups: A Literature Review.}, journal = {Current medical imaging}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {442-455}, doi = {10.2174/1573405618666220620125332}, pmid = {35726407}, issn = {1573-4056}, mesh = {Pregnancy ; Humans ; Female ; Child ; Middle Aged ; *COVID-19/diagnostic imaging ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: In 2019, a series of novel pneumonia cases later known as Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) were reported in Wuhan, China. Chest computed tomography (CT) has played a key role in the management and prognostication of COVID-19 patients. CT has demonstrated 98% sensitivity in detecting COVID-19, including identifying lung abnormalities that are suggestive of COVID-19, even among asymptomatic individuals.

METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive literature review of 17 published studies, focusing on three subgroups, pediatric patients, pregnant women, and patients over 60 years old, to identify key characteristics of chest CT in COVID-19 patients.

RESULTS: Our comprehensive review of the 17 studies concluded that the main CT imaging finding is ground glass opacities (GGOs) regardless of patient age. We also identified that crazy paving pattern, reverse halo sign, smooth or irregular septal thickening, and pleural thickening may serve as indicators of disease progression. Lesions on CT scans were dominantly distributed in the peripheral zone with multilobar involvement, specifically concentrated in the lower lobes. In the patients over 60 years old, the proportion of substantial lobe involvement was higher than the control group and crazy paving signs, bronchodilation, and pleural thickening were more commonly present.

CONCLUSION: Based on all 17 studies, CT findings in COVID-19 have shown a predictable pattern of evolution over the disease. These studies have proven that CT may be an effective approach for early screening and detection of COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid35585806, year = {2023}, author = {Al-Kuraishy, HM and Al-Gareeb, AI and Rauf, A and Alhumaydhi, FA and Kujawska, M and El-Saber Batiha, G}, title = {Mechanistic Insight and Possible Mechanism of Seizure in Covid-19: The Nuances and Focal Points.}, journal = {CNS & neurological disorders drug targets}, volume = {22}, number = {6}, pages = {875-883}, doi = {10.2174/1871527321666220517115227}, pmid = {35585806}, issn = {1996-3181}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 ; Neuroinflammatory Diseases ; Seizures ; }, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a primary respiratory disease with an alarming impact worldwide. COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and presents various neurological symptoms, including seizures. SARS-CoV-2 shows neuroinvasive and neurotropic capabilities through a neuronal angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which is also highly expressed in both neuronal and glial cells. Therefore, SARS-CoV-2 can trigger neuroinflammation and neuronal hyperexcitability, increasing the risk of seizures. Olfactory neurons could be an exceptional neuronal pathway for the neuroinvasion of respiratory viruses to access the central nervous system (CNS) from the nasal cavity, leading to neuronal injury and neuroinflammation. Although neuronal ACE2 has been widely studied, other receptors for SARS-CoV-2 in the brain have been proposed to mediate viral-neuronal interactions with subsequent neurological squeals. Thus, the objective of the present critical review was to find the association and mechanistic insight between COVID-19 and the risk of seizures.}, } @article {pmid37201145, year = {2023}, author = {Melhem, N and Moutier, CY and Brent, DA}, title = {Implementing Evidence-Based Suicide Prevention Strategies for Greatest Impact.}, journal = {Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)}, volume = {21}, number = {2}, pages = {117-128}, doi = {10.1176/appi.focus.20220078}, pmid = {37201145}, issn = {1541-4094}, abstract = {Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the United States and globally. In this review, epidemiological trends in mortality and suicide risk are presented, with consideration given to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A public health model of suicide prevention with a community and clinical framework, along with advances in scientific discovery, offer new solutions that await widespread implementation. Actionable interventions with evidence for reducing risk for suicidal behavior are presented, including universal and targeted strategies at community, public policy, and clinical levels. Clinical interventions include screening and risk assessment; brief interventions (e.g., safety planning, education, and lethal means counseling) that can be done in primary care, emergency, and behavioral health settings; psychotherapies (cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, mentalization therapy); pharmacotherapy; and systemwide procedures for health care organizations (training, policies, workflow, surveillance of suicide indicators, use of health records for screening, care steps). Suicide prevention strategies must be prioritized and implemented at scale for greatest impact.}, } @article {pmid37201098, year = {2023}, author = {Street, ME and Ponzi, D and Renati, R and Petraroli, M and D'Alvano, T and Lattanzi, C and Ferrari, V and Rollo, D and Stagi, S}, title = {Precocious puberty under stressful conditions: new understanding and insights from the lessons learnt from international adoptions and the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1149417}, doi = {10.3389/fendo.2023.1149417}, pmid = {37201098}, issn = {1664-2392}, abstract = {Neuro-biological variations in the timing of sexual maturation within a species are part of an evolved strategy that depend on internal and external environmental conditions. An increased incidence of central precocious puberty (CPP) has been described in both adopted and "covid-19 pandemic" children. Until recently, it was hypothesised that the triggers for CPP in internationally adopted children were likely to be better nutrition, greater environmental stability, and improved psychological wellbeing. However, following data collected during and after the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic, other possibilities must be considered. In a society with high levels of child wellbeing, the threat to life presented by an unknown and potentially serious disease and the stressful environment created by lockdowns and other public health measures could trigger earlier pubertal maturation as an evolutionary response to favour early reproduction. The main driver for increased rates of precocious and rapidly progressive puberty during the pandemic could have been the environment of "fear and stress" in schools and households. In many children, CPP may have been triggered by the psychological effects of living without normal social contact, using PPE, being near adults concerned about financial and other issues and the fear of getting ill. The features and time of progression of CPP in children during the pandemic are similar to those observed in adopted children. This review considers the mechanisms regulating puberty with a focus on neurobiological and evolutionary mechanisms, and analyses precocious puberty both during the pandemic and in internationally adopted children searching for common yet unconsidered factors in an attempt to identify the factors which may have acted as triggers. In particular, we focus on stress as a potential factor in the early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and its correlation with rapid sexual maturation.}, } @article {pmid37201006, year = {2023}, author = {Evcik, D}, title = {Musculoskeletal involvement: COVID-19 and post COVID 19.}, journal = {Turkish journal of physical medicine and rehabilitation}, volume = {69}, number = {1}, pages = {1-7}, doi = {10.5606/tftrd.2023.12521}, pmid = {37201006}, issn = {2587-1250}, abstract = {The worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was known to predominantly affect the lungs, but it was realized that COVID-19 had a large variety of clinical involvement. Cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems are involved by direct or indirect mechanisms with various manifestations. The musculoskeletal involvement can manifest during COVID-19 infection, due to medications used for the treatment of COVID-19, and in the post/long COVID-19 syndrome. The major symptoms are fatigue, myalgia/arthralgia, back pain, low back pain, and chest pain. During the last two years, musculoskeletal involvement increased, but no clear consensus was obtained about the pathogenesis. However, there is valuable data that supports the hypothesis of angiotensinconverting enzyme 2, inflammation, hypoxia, and muscle catabolism. Additionally, medications that were used for treatment also have musculoskeletal adverse effects, such as corticosteroid-induced myopathy and osteoporosis. Therefore, while deciding the drugs, priorities and benefits should be taken into consideration. Symptoms that begin three months from the onset of the COVID-19 infection, continue for at least two months, and cannot be explained by another diagnosis is accepted as post/long COVID-19 syndrome. Prior symptoms may persist and fluctuate, or new symptoms may manifest. In addition, there must be at least one symptom of infection. Most common musculoskeletal symptoms are myalgia, arthralgia, fatigue, back pain, muscle weakness, sarcopenia, impaired exercise capacity, and physical performance. In addition, the female sex, obesity, elderly patients, hospitalization, prolonged immobility, having mechanical ventilation, not having vaccination, and comorbid disorders can be accepted as clinical predictors for post/long COVID-19 syndrome. Musculoskeletal pain is also a major problem and tends to be in chronic form. There is no consensus on the mechanism, but inflammation and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 seem to play an important role. Localized and generalized pain may occur after COVID-19, and general pain is at least as common as localized pain. An accurate diagnosis allows physicians to initiate pain management and proper rehabilitation programs.}, } @article {pmid37200966, year = {2023}, author = {Polyzou, M and Kiefer, D and Baraliakos, X and Sewerin, P}, title = {Addressing the spread of health-related misinformation on social networks: an opinion article.}, journal = {Frontiers in medicine}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1167033}, doi = {10.3389/fmed.2023.1167033}, pmid = {37200966}, issn = {2296-858X}, abstract = {This article deals with the spread of misinformation in a general context and specifically in the health sector. It presents a theoretical view of the problem and analyzes its characteristics with a focus on medicine and mainly rheumatology. Finally, conclusions from the previous analysis are formulated as well as suggestions for reducing the dimensions of the problem in the health sector.}, } @article {pmid37200886, year = {2022}, author = {Choi-Kain, LW and Sahin, Z and Traynor, J}, title = {Borderline Personality Disorder: Updates in a Postpandemic World.}, journal = {Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)}, volume = {20}, number = {4}, pages = {337-352}, doi = {10.1176/appi.focus.20220057}, pmid = {37200886}, issn = {1541-4094}, abstract = {Progress in understanding borderline personality disorder has unfolded in the last decade, landing in a new COVID-19-influenced world. Borderline personality disorder is now firmly established as a valid diagnosis, distinct from its co-occurring mood, anxiety, trauma-related, and behavioral disorders. Further, it is also understood as a reflection of general personality dysfunction, capturing essential features shared among all personality disorders. Neuroimaging research, representing the vast neurobiological advances made in the last decade, illustrates that the disorder shares frontolimbic dysfunction with many psychiatric diagnoses but has a distinct signature of interpersonal and emotional hypersensitivity. This signature is the conceptual basis of the psychotherapies and clinical management approaches proven effective for the disorder. Medications remain adjunctive and are contraindicated by some guidelines internationally. Less invasive brain-based therapeutics show promise. The most significant change in the treatment landscape is a focus on briefer, less intensive formats of generalist management. Shorter variants of therapies, such as dialectical behavior therapy and mentalization-based treatment, are in the process of being shown to be adequately effective. Earlier intervention and greater emphasis on functional improvement are needed to more effectively curb the disabilities and risks of borderline personality disorder for patients and their families. Remote interventions show promise in broadening access to care.}, } @article {pmid37200654, year = {2023}, author = {Alkhalaf, A and Aljaroudi, E and Al-Hulami, M and Gaffar, B and Almas, K}, title = {Efficacy of Surgical Masks Versus N95 Respirators for the Prevention of COVID-19 in Dental Settings: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37631}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.37631}, pmid = {37200654}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. (SARS-CoV-2). It spreads mainly through saliva droplets or nasal discharge. Dentists are among the professionals with the greatest risk of contracting and transmitting COVID-19. We compared the efficacy of surgical masks versus N95 respirators in preventing COVID-19 infection in dental settings. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Search terms corresponded to a predefined PICOS (patient/population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes) question. The risk of bias was evaluated using AMSTAR-2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews-2), ROBIS (Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews), and Health Evidence tools. A total of 191 articles were screened, and nine of them were further evaluated for eligibility, of which five articles (fulfilled the selection criteria) and were included in this study. Two studies concluded that surgical masks could provide equivalent protection to N95 respirators. Another study found that N95 respirators were superior to surgical masks. The fourth study found that better protection can be achieved when using surgical masks by the aerosol source than when the recipient uses an N95 respirator, while the last study concluded that surgical masks or N95 respirators alone do not provide full protection. Thus, according to this systematic review, N95 respirators provide better protection against COVID-19 infection compared to surgical masks.}, } @article {pmid37200645, year = {2023}, author = {Metellus, P and Jegede, O and Brown, C and Qureshi, D and Nkemjika, S}, title = {A Review of the Mental Health Sequelae of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19): Preparedness Perspective.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37643}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.37643}, pmid = {37200645}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Despite the three significant epidemics that have rattled the world in the last two decades, many questions remain unanswered! The concept of unwanted psychological distress remains looming after any epidemic or pandemic. The public health burden of the COVID-19 pandemic still resonates with different aspects of life with predicted mental health sequelae. This review will focus on the role of natural disasters and past infectious epidemic-related mental health complications. Additionally, the study provides recommendations and policy suggestions for mitigating COVID-19-related mental health prevalence.}, } @article {pmid37200573, year = {2023}, author = {Anik, FI and Sakib, N and Shahriar, H and Xie, Y and Nahiyan, HA and Ahamed, SI}, title = {Unraveling a blockchain-based framework towards patient empowerment: A scoping review envisioning future smart health technologies.}, journal = {Smart health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)}, volume = {29}, number = {}, pages = {100401}, doi = {10.1016/j.smhl.2023.100401}, pmid = {37200573}, issn = {2352-6483}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic shows us how crucial patient empowerment can be in the healthcare ecosystem. Now, we know that scientific advancement, technology integration, and patient empowerment need to be orchestrated to realize future smart health technologies. In that effort, this paper unravels the Good (advantages), Bad (challenges/limitations), and Ugly (lacking patient empowerment) of the blockchain technology integration in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) paradigm in the existing healthcare landscape. Our study addresses four methodically-tailored and patient-centric Research Questions, primarily examining 138 relevant scientific papers. This scoping review also explores how the pervasiveness of blockchain technology can help to empower patients in terms of access, awareness, and control. Finally, this scoping review leverages the insights gleaned from this study and contributes to the body of knowledge by proposing a patient-centric blockchain-based framework. This work will envision orchestrating three essential elements with harmony: scientific advancement (Healthcare and EHR), technology integration (Blockchain Technology), and patient empowerment (access, awareness, and control).}, } @article {pmid37200564, year = {2023}, author = {Islam, MM and Khanom, H and Farag, E and Mim, ZT and Naidoo, P and Mkhize-Kwitshana, ZL and Tibbo, M and Islam, A and Soares Magalhaes, RJ and Hassan, MM}, title = {Global patterns of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) prevalence and seroprevalence in camels: A systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {100561}, doi = {10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100561}, pmid = {37200564}, issn = {2352-7714}, abstract = {The Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is one of the human coronaviruses that causes severe respiratory infection. Bats are considered to be the natural reservoir, where dromedary camels (DC) are the intermediate hosts of the virus. The current study was undertaken to provide an update on global distribution of the virus in camels, and to investigate the pooled prevalence and camel-associated risk factors of infection. After registration of the review protocol in the Open Science Framework, data searches were conducted on 18 April 2023 through Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Considering only natural MERS-CoV infection in camels, 94 articles were selected for data curation through blind screening by two authors. Meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence and to evaluate camel-associated risk factors. Finally, the results were presented in forest plots. The reviewed articles tested 34 countries, of which camels of 24 countries were seropositive and in 15 countries they were positive by molecular method. Viral RNA was detected in DC. Non-DC, such as bactrian camels, alpaca, llama, and hybrid camels were only seropositive. The global estimated pooled seroprevalence and viral RNA prevalence in DC were 77.53% and 23.63%, respectively, with the highest prevalence in West Asia (86.04% and 32.37% respectively). In addition, 41.08% of non-DC were seropositive. The estimated pooled prevalence of MERS-CoV RNA significantly varied by sample types with the highest in oral (45.01%) and lowest in rectal (8.42%) samples; the estimated pooled prevalence in nasal (23.10%) and milk (21.21%) samples were comparable. The estimated pooled seroprevalence in <2 years, 2-5 years, and > 5 years age groups were 56.32%, 75.31%, and 86.31%, respectively, while viral RNA prevalence was 33.40%, 15.87%, and 13.74%, respectively. Seroprevalence and viral RNA prevalence were generally higher in females (75.28% and 19.70%, respectively) than in males (69.53% and 18.99%, respectively). Local camels had lower estimated pooled seroprevalence (63.34%) and viral RNA prevalence (17.78%) than those of imported camels (89.17% and 29.41%, respectively). The estimated pooled seroprevalence was higher in camels of free-herds (71.70%) than confined herds (47.77%). Furthermore, estimated pooled seroprevalence was higher in samples from livestock markets, followed by abattoirs, quarantine, and farms but viral RNA prevalence was the highest in samples from abattoirs, followed by livestock markets, quarantine, and farms. Risk factors, such as sample type, young age, female sex, imported camels, and camel management must be considered to control and prevent the spread and emergence of MERS-CoV.}, } @article {pmid37199992, year = {2023}, author = {Aldosari, LIN and Hassan, SAB and Alshahrani, AA and Alshadidi, AAF and Ronsivalle, V and Marrapodi, MM and Cicciù, M and Minervini, G}, title = {Prevalence of Temporomandibular disorders among psychoactive substances abusers: A systematic review and metanalysis.}, journal = {Journal of oral rehabilitation}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/joor.13513}, pmid = {37199992}, issn = {1365-2842}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on substance abuse patterns in recent times. Many people have experienced increased stress, anxiety, and social isolation, which has led to higher rates of substance abuse and addiction. It impacts on the orofacial region, particularly temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This review was undertaken to assess the association between substance abuse and temporomandibular disorders. (TMDs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The databases of Pubmed, Google scholar, Web of science and Cochrane were searched for articles based of set PECO criteria. A comprehensive search using keywords of "Psychoactive substances", "Illegal substances", "substance abuse", "narcotics", "temporomandibular joint" and "temporomandibular joint disorders" yielded a total of 1405 articles. Modified Newcastle Ottawa scale for observational studies assessed the risk of bias of included studies.

RESULTS: A total of 2 studies were reviewed. Samples recruited were either from rehabilitation centres or prisoners and fell in the 2[nd] to 4[th] decade. A definite association was noted between psychoactive substance and TMDs. Moderate to low risk of bias was noted in all the studies evaluated.

CONCLUSION: Further research is needed to better understand the nature of this relationship and the underlying mechanisms involved. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of this potential association and to screen for substance abuse in patients with TMD symptoms.}, } @article {pmid37199870, year = {2023}, author = {Zeghbib, S and Kemenesi, G and Jakab, F}, title = {The importance of equally accessible genomic surveillance in the age of pandemics.}, journal = {Biologia futura}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37199870}, issn = {2676-8607}, abstract = {Genomic epidemiology is now a core component in investigating the spread of a disease during an outbreak and for future preparedness to tackle emerging zoonoses. During the last decades, several viral diseases arose and emphasized the importance of molecular epidemiology in tracking the dispersal route, supporting proper mitigation measures, and appropriate vaccine development. In this perspective article, we summarized what has been done so far in the genomic epidemiology field and what should be considered in the future. We traced back the methods and protocols employed over time for zoonotic disease response. Either to small outbreaks such as the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak identified first in 2002 in Guangdong, China, or to a global pandemic like the one that we are experiencing now since 2019 when the severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus emerged in Wuhan, China, following several pneumonia cases, and subsequently spread worldwide. We explored both the benefits and shortages encountered when relying on genomic epidemiology, and we clearly present the disadvantages of inequity in accessing these tools around the world, especially in countries with less developed economies. For effectively addressing future pandemics, it is crucial to work for better sequencing equity around the globe.}, } @article {pmid37199573, year = {2023}, author = {Shu, H and Wen, Z and Li, N and Zhang, Z and Ceesay, BM and Peng, Y and Zhou, N and Wang, DW}, title = {COVID-19 and Cardiovascular Diseases: From Cellular Mechanisms to Clinical Manifestations.}, journal = {Aging and disease}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.14336/AD.2023.0314}, pmid = {37199573}, issn = {2152-5250}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), quickly spread worldwide and led to over 581 million confirmed cases and over 6 million deaths as 1 August 2022. The binding of the viral surface spike protein to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor is the primary mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Not only highly expressed in the lung, ACE2 is also widely distributed in the heart, mainly in cardiomyocytes and pericytes. The strong association between COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been demonstrated by increased clinical evidence. Preexisting CVD risk factors, including obesity, hypertension, and diabetes etc., increase susceptibility to COVID-19. In turn, COVID-19 exacerbates the progression of CVD, including myocardial damage, arrhythmia, acute myocarditis, heart failure, and thromboembolism. Moreover, cardiovascular risks post recovery and the vaccination-associated cardiovascular problems have become increasingly evident. To demonstrate the association between COVID-19 and CVD, this review detailly illustrated the impact of COVID-19 on different cells (cardiomyocytes, pericytes, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts) in myocardial tissue and provides an overview of the clinical manifestations of cardiovascular involvements in the pandemic. Finally, the issues related to myocardial injury post recovery, as well as vaccination-induced CVD, has also been emphasized.}, } @article {pmid37199411, year = {2023}, author = {Wei, ZD and Liang, K and Shetty, AK}, title = {Complications of COVID-19 on the Central Nervous System: Mechanisms and Potential Treatment for Easing Long COVID.}, journal = {Aging and disease}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.14336/AD.2023.0312-1}, pmid = {37199411}, issn = {2152-5250}, abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) invades human cells by binding to the angiotensin-converting-enzyme-2 (ACE-2) using a spike protein and leads to Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 primarily causes a respiratory infection that can lead to severe systemic inflammation. It is also common for some patients to develop significant neurological and psychiatric symptoms. The spread of SARS-CoV-2 to the CNS likely occurs through several pathways. Once spread in the CNS, many acute symptoms emerge, and such infections could also transpire into severe neurological complications, including encephalitis or ischemic stroke. After recovery from the acute infection, a significant percentage of patients develop "long COVID," a condition in which several symptoms of COVID-19 persist for prolonged periods. This review aims to discuss acute and chronic neurological problems after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The potential mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 enters the CNS and causes neuroinflammation, neuropathological changes observed in postmortem brains of COVID-19 patients, and cognitive and mood problems in COVID-19 survivors are discussed in the initial part. The later part of the review deliberates the causes of long COVID, approaches for noninvasive tracking of neuroinflammation in long COVID patients, and the potential therapeutic strategies that could ease enduring CNS symptoms observed in long COVID.}, } @article {pmid37198908, year = {2023}, author = {Baker Rogers, JE}, title = {Hospices and Emergency Preparedness Planning: A Scoping Review of the Literature.}, journal = {Journal of palliative care}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {8258597231176410}, doi = {10.1177/08258597231176410}, pmid = {37198908}, issn = {2369-5293}, abstract = {Objective. Palliative and end-of-life care, as provided by hospices, are important elements of a healthcare response to disasters. A scoping review of the literature was conducted to examine and synthesize what is currently known about emergency preparedness planning by hospices. Methods. A literature search of academic and trade publications was conducted through 6 publication databases, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines when applicable. Publications were selected and findings were organized into themes. Results. A total of 26 articles were included in the literature review. Six themes of Policies and Procedures; Testing/Training/Education; Integration and Coordination; Mitigation; Risk Assessment/Hazard and Vulnerability Analysis; and Regulations were identified. Conclusions. This review demonstrates that hospices have begun to individualize emergency preparedness features that support their unique role. The review supports all-hazards planning for hospices, and emerging from this review is a developing vision for expanded roles of hospices to help communities in times of disaster. Continued research in this specialized area is needed to improve hospices' emergency preparedness efforts.}, } @article {pmid37198402, year = {2023}, author = {Xu, H and Lin, S and Zhou, Z and Li, D and Zhang, X and Yu, M and Zhao, R and Wang, Y and Qian, J and Li, X and Li, B and Wei, C and Chen, K and Yoshimura, T and Wang, JM and Huang, J}, title = {New genetic and epigenetic insights into the chemokine system: the latest discoveries aiding progression toward precision medicine.}, journal = {Cellular & molecular immunology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37198402}, issn = {2042-0226}, abstract = {Over the past thirty years, the importance of chemokines and their seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) has been increasingly recognized. Chemokine interactions with receptors trigger signaling pathway activity to form a network fundamental to diverse immune processes, including host homeostasis and responses to disease. Genetic and nongenetic regulation of both the expression and structure of chemokines and receptors conveys chemokine functional heterogeneity. Imbalances and defects in the system contribute to the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases, including cancer, immune and inflammatory diseases, and metabolic and neurological disorders, which render the system a focus of studies aiming to discover therapies and important biomarkers. The integrated view of chemokine biology underpinning divergence and plasticity has provided insights into immune dysfunction in disease states, including, among others, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this review, by reporting the latest advances in chemokine biology and results from analyses of a plethora of sequencing-based datasets, we outline recent advances in the understanding of the genetic variations and nongenetic heterogeneity of chemokines and receptors and provide an updated view of their contribution to the pathophysiological network, focusing on chemokine-mediated inflammation and cancer. Clarification of the molecular basis of dynamic chemokine-receptor interactions will help advance the understanding of chemokine biology to achieve precision medicine application in the clinic.}, } @article {pmid37197881, year = {2023}, author = {Jaisinghani, P and Kumar, R}, title = {Obesity and Viral Infections.}, journal = {Gastroenterology clinics of North America}, volume = {52}, number = {2}, pages = {393-402}, doi = {10.1016/j.gtc.2023.03.012}, pmid = {37197881}, issn = {1558-1942}, abstract = {The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) triggered a rapidly expanding global pandemic. The presence of obesity in patients with COVID-19 has been established as a risk factor for disease severity, hospital admission, and mortality. Thus, it is imperative those living with obesity be vaccinated against COVID-19. Although there is a timeframe COVID-19 vaccines are efficacious in those living with obesity, more studies need to be conducted to ensure that those long-lasting protection is maintained, as obesity has implications on the immune system.}, } @article {pmid37197797, year = {2023}, author = {Smith, KA and Blease, C and Faurholt-Jepsen, M and Firth, J and Van Daele, T and Moreno, C and Carlbring, P and Ebner-Priemer, UW and Koutsouleris, N and Riper, H and Mouchabac, S and Torous, J and Cipriani, A}, title = {Digital mental health: challenges and next steps.}, journal = {BMJ mental health}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1136/bmjment-2023-300670}, pmid = {37197797}, issn = {2755-9734}, abstract = {Digital innovations in mental health offer great potential, but present unique challenges. Using a consensus development panel approach, an expert, international, cross-disciplinary panel met to provide a framework to conceptualise digital mental health innovations, research into mechanisms and effectiveness and approaches for clinical implementation. Key questions and outputs from the group were agreed by consensus, and are presented and discussed in the text and supported by case examples in an accompanying appendix. A number of key themes emerged. (1) Digital approaches may work best across traditional diagnostic systems: we do not have effective ontologies of mental illness and transdiagnostic/symptom-based approaches may be more fruitful. (2) Approaches in clinical implementation of digital tools/interventions need to be creative and require organisational change: not only do clinicians and patients need training and education to be more confident and skilled in using digital technologies to support shared care decision-making, but traditional roles need to be extended, with clinicians working alongside digital navigators and non-clinicians who are delivering protocolised treatments. (3) Designing appropriate studies to measure the effectiveness of implementation is also key: including digital data raises unique ethical issues, and measurement of potential harms is only just beginning. (4) Accessibility and codesign are needed to ensure innovations are long lasting. (5) Standardised guidelines for reporting would ensure effective synthesis of the evidence to inform clinical implementation. COVID-19 and the transition to virtual consultations have shown us the potential for digital innovations to improve access and quality of care in mental health: now is the ideal time to act.}, } @article {pmid37197288, year = {2023}, author = {Eccles, R and Boivin, G and Cowling, BJ and Pavia, A and Selvarangan, R}, title = {Treatment of COVID-19 symptoms with over the counter (OTC) medicines used for treatment of common cold and flu.}, journal = {Clinical infection in practice}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {100230}, pmid = {37197288}, issn = {2590-1702}, abstract = {Persons suffering from acute upper respiratory tract viral infections (URTI) commonly use over the counter (OTC) medicines to relieve symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, cough, runny nose, sore throat and nasal congestion. At present OTC medicines are only licensed for treatment of common cold and flu symptoms and not for treatment of the same symptoms associated with COVID-19. The innate immune response responsible for the mechanisms of the symptoms of URTI is the same for all respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2 and these symptoms can be relieved by treatment with the same OTC medicines as available for treatment of colds and flu. This review provides scientific information that OTC treatments for common cold and flu-like illness caused by respiratory viruses are safe and effective treatments for the same symptoms associated with COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37197279, year = {2023}, author = {Magazine, R and Chogtu, B and Bhat, A}, title = {Role of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 and its modulation in disease: exploring new frontiers.}, journal = {Medicine and pharmacy reports}, volume = {96}, number = {2}, pages = {146-153}, pmid = {37197279}, issn = {2668-0572}, abstract = {Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE2), an important enzyme in the Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System, degrades Angiotensin II (Ang II) into Angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)), whose actions are opposite to that of Ang II. Interestingly, SARS CoV-2 virus entry into human cells is mediated by ACE2. ACE2 receptors that are widely expressed in lungs and various other organs. Ang-(1-7) seems to have favorable effects on lungs, by preventing fibrosis in lung inflammation models, and exerts a similar action in cardiac and renal pathologies as well. Thus, modulation of Ang-(1-7) can be of potential benefit in chronic as well as acute inflammatory diseases affecting lungs and other organs. Upregulation of ACE2 by statins in different organs, and its consequent beneficial effects, have been demonstrated in many experimental studies, and also in a few clinical ones. This review aims at probing the role of ACE2 and its therapeutic modulation in pulmonary and extra pulmonary diseases, including COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37197227, year = {2023}, author = {Luu, B and McCoy-Hass, V and Kadiu, T and Ngo, V and Kadiu, S and Lien, J}, title = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Associated Infections.}, journal = {Physician assistant clinics}, volume = {8}, number = {3}, pages = {495-530}, pmid = {37197227}, issn = {2405-8009}, abstract = {Viral infections are some of the most common sources of respiratory illness in pediatric and adult populations worldwide. Influenza and coronaviruses are viral pathogens that could lead to severe respiratory illness and death. More recently, respiratory illness from coronaviruses, accounts for more than 1 million deaths in the United States alone. This article will explore the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by coronavirus-2, and Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome.}, } @article {pmid37197199, year = {2023}, author = {Hurtado-Tamayo, J and Requena-Platek, R and Enjuanes, L and Bello-Perez, M and Sola, I}, title = {Contribution to pathogenesis of accessory proteins of deadly human coronaviruses.}, journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {1166839}, pmid = {37197199}, issn = {2235-2988}, abstract = {Coronaviruses (CoVs) are enveloped and positive-stranded RNA viruses with a large genome (∼ 30kb). CoVs include essential genes, such as the replicase and four genes coding for structural proteins (S, M, N and E), and genes encoding accessory proteins, which are variable in number, sequence and function among different CoVs. Accessory proteins are non-essential for virus replication, but are frequently involved in virus-host interactions associated with virulence. The scientific literature on CoV accessory proteins includes information analyzing the effect of deleting or mutating accessory genes in the context of viral infection, which requires the engineering of CoV genomes using reverse genetics systems. However, a considerable number of publications analyze gene function by overexpressing the protein in the absence of other viral proteins. This ectopic expression provides relevant information, although does not acknowledge the complex interplay of proteins during virus infection. A critical review of the literature may be helpful to interpret apparent discrepancies in the conclusions obtained by different experimental approaches. This review summarizes the current knowledge on human CoV accessory proteins, with an emphasis on their contribution to virus-host interactions and pathogenesis. This knowledge may help the search for antiviral drugs and vaccine development, still needed for some highly pathogenic human CoVs.}, } @article {pmid37197196, year = {2023}, author = {Zewdie, A and Mose, A and Sahle, T and Kasahun, AW and Melaku, E and Zemene, MA}, title = {COVID 19 prevention practice of patients with known chronic illness in Ethiopia: A systemic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Journal of multimorbidity and comorbidity}, volume = {13}, number = {}, pages = {26335565231176166}, pmid = {37197196}, issn = {2633-5565}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: There were different studies done and found a highly variable level of COVID 19 prevention practice; however, there was no summarized evidence on the prevention practice of chronic disease patients in Ethiopia. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess the pooled prevalence of COVID 19 prevention practice and associated factors among chronic disease patients in Ethiopia.

METHOD: Systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive literature was searched in international databases. A weighted inverse variance random effect model was used to estimate pooled prevalence. Cochrane Q-test and I[2] statistics were computed to assess heterogeneity among studies. Funnel plot and Eggers test were done to assess publication bias. Review manager software was used to identify determinants of COVID 19 prevention practice.

RESULT: Overall, 437 articles were retrieved and finally 8 articles were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of good COVID 19 prevention practices was 44.02% (95%CI (35.98%-52.06%). Being rurally reside (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI (1.30-4.41)), having educational status of cannot read and write (AOR = 2.32, 95% CI (1.22-4.40)), and poor knowledge (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI (1.64-3.60)) positively associated with poor practice.

CONCLUSION: Good COVID 19 prevention practices of chronic disease patients in Ethiopia was low. Rural residence, educational status of cannot read and write and poor knowledge was positively associated with poor practice. Therefore, policymakers and program planners should target those high-risk groups in improving their awareness to enhance their practice specifically focusing on those who are rural reside and with low educational status.}, } @article {pmid37196358, year = {2023}, author = {Cobat, A and Zhang, Q and Covid Human Genetic Effort, and Abel, L and Casanova, JL and Fellay, J}, title = {Human Genomics of COVID-19 Pneumonia: Contributions of Rare and Common Variants.}, journal = {Annual review of biomedical data science}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1146/annurev-biodatasci-020222-021705}, pmid = {37196358}, issn = {2574-3414}, abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection is silent or benign in most infected individuals, but causes hypoxemic COVID-19 pneumonia in about 10% of cases. We review studies of the human genetics of life-threatening COVID-19 pneumonia, focusing on both rare and common variants. Large-scale genome-wide association studies have identified more than 20 common loci robustly associated with COVID-19 pneumonia with modest effect sizes, some implicating genes expressed in the lungs or leukocytes. The most robust association, on chromosome 3, concerns a haplotype inherited from Neanderthals. Sequencing studies focusing on rare variants with a strong effect have been particularly successful, identifying inborn errors of type I interferon (IFN) immunity in 1-5% of unvaccinated patients with critical pneumonia, and their autoimmune phenocopy, autoantibodies against type I IFN, in another 15-20% of cases. Our growing understanding of the impact of human genetic variation on immunity to SARS-CoV-2 is enabling health systems to improve protection for individuals and populations. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Biomedical Data Science, Volume 6 is August 2023. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.}, } @article {pmid37196356, year = {2023}, author = {Bedi, R and Bayless, NL and Glanville, J}, title = {Challenges and Progress in Designing Broad-Spectrum Vaccines Against Rapidly Mutating Viruses.}, journal = {Annual review of biomedical data science}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1146/annurev-biodatasci-020722-041304}, pmid = {37196356}, issn = {2574-3414}, abstract = {Viruses evolve to evade prior immunity, causing significant disease burden. Vaccine effectiveness deteriorates as pathogens mutate, requiring redesign. This is a problem that has grown worse due to population increase, global travel, and farming practices. Thus, there is significant interest in developing broad-spectrum vaccines that mitigate disease severity and ideally inhibit disease transmission without requiring frequent updates. Even in cases where vaccines against rapidly mutating pathogens have been somewhat effective, such as seasonal influenza and SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), designing vaccines that provide broad-spectrum immunity against routinely observed viral variation remains a desirable but not yet achieved goal. This review highlights the key theoretical advances in understanding the interplay between polymorphism and vaccine efficacy, challenges in designing broad-spectrum vaccines, and technology advances and possible avenues forward. We also discuss data-driven approaches for monitoring vaccine efficacy and predicting viral escape from vaccine-induced protection. In each case, we consider illustrative examples in vaccine development from influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)-three examples of highly prevalent rapidly mutating viruses with distinct phylogenetics and unique histories of vaccine technology development. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Biomedical Data Science, Volume 6 is August 2023. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.}, } @article {pmid37196221, year = {2023}, author = {Zong, Y and Lin, Y and Wei, T and Cheng, Q}, title = {Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Enables mRNA Delivery for Cancer Therapy.}, journal = {Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e2303261}, doi = {10.1002/adma.202303261}, pmid = {37196221}, issn = {1521-4095}, abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) has received great attention in the prevention and treatment of various diseases due to the success of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (Comirnaty and Spikevax). To meet the therapeutic purpose, it is required that mRNA must enter the target cells and express sufficient proteins. Therefore, the development of effective delivery systems is necessary and crucial. Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) represents a remarkable vehicle that has indeed accelerated mRNA applications in humans, as several mRNA-based therapies have already been approved or are in clinical trials. In this review, we focus on mRNA-LNP mediated anticancer therapy. We summarize the main development strategies of mRNA-LNP formulations, discuss representative therapeutic approaches in cancer, and point out current challenges and possible future directions of this research field. We hope these delivered messages could help further improve the application of mRNA-LNP technology in cancer therapy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.}, } @article {pmid37194894, year = {2023}, author = {Nascimento, AAA and Ribeiro, SEA and Marinho, ACL and Azevedo, VD and Moreira, MEM and Azevedo, IC}, title = {Repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on Nursing training: A Scoping Review.}, journal = {Revista latino-americana de enfermagem}, volume = {31}, number = {}, pages = {e3911}, doi = {10.1590/1518-8345.6414.3911}, pmid = {37194894}, issn = {1518-8345}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Learning ; Students ; Educational Status ; }, abstract = {to map the knowledge produced about the repercussions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic on Nursing training. this is a Scoping Review, guided by the recommendations set forth in the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer's Manual and carried out in 15 electronic databases and theses and dissertations repositories. The protocol was registered at the Open Science Framework. The data were analyzed and synthesized into two pre-established analysis categories: positive and negative repercussions; and descriptive statistics. 33 publications identified, the most cited positive aspects were the development of new teaching strategies adapted to the virtual environment and the training of future professionals in clinical practice in the context of a health crisis. The negative repercussions are related to psychological issues such as increase in the cases of anxiety, stress and loneliness among the students. the diverse evidence suggests that remote teaching was a timely emergency way out for the continuity of academic training; however, this educational modality presented positive and negative aspects that need to be rethought for a better systematization of teaching-learning in other contexts that resemble the COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37194866, year = {2023}, author = {Barros, SG and Cruz, DN and Souza, JC and Silva, LA and Guimarães, MCDS and Rezende, MM and Paim, J and Vieira-da-Silva, LM}, title = {Surveillance and high vaccination coverage: how Portugal overcame the collapse and regained control of the pandemic.}, journal = {Ciencia & saude coletiva}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {1297-1312}, doi = {10.1590/1413-81232023285.10732022}, pmid = {37194866}, issn = {1678-4561}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Portugal/epidemiology ; Vaccination Coverage ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Vaccination ; }, abstract = {The uncertainties about COVID-19 require evaluating national responses to identify successes and failures in the pandemic control. This article analyzes Portugal´s response, particularly the contribution of its health and surveillance systems in dealing with the pandemic. An integrative literature review was conducted, including consultations of observatories, documents, and institutional websites. Portugal´s response was agile and showed unified technical and political coordination, including surveillance structure using telemedicine. The reopening was supported by high testing and low positivity rates and strict rules. However, the relaxation of measures as of November/2020 resulted in an increase in cases, collapsing the health system. The response involved a consistent surveillance strategy with innovative monitoring tools, which, combined with high population adherence to vaccination, led to overcoming that moment and kept hospitalization and death rates at new disease waves at low levels. Thus, the Portuguese case discloses the risks of disease resurgence with the flexibility of measures and the population´s exhaustion in the face of restrictive measures and new variants, but also the importance of articulation between technical coordination, the political sphere, and the scientific committee.}, } @article {pmid37194864, year = {2023}, author = {Teixeira, CF and Santos, JS}, title = {Strategic analysis of the Brazilian federal government's performance in the COVID-19 pandemic: 2020-2021.}, journal = {Ciencia & saude coletiva}, volume = {28}, number = {5}, pages = {1277-1286}, doi = {10.1590/1413-81232023285.10502022}, pmid = {37194864}, issn = {1678-4561}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; Federal Government ; Brazil/epidemiology ; Government ; }, abstract = {The study aim is to analyze the performance of the Brazilian federal government (FG) in the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking to identify tensions and conflicts between actors and institutions of the three branches of the government and the FG with state governors. Data production included a review of articles, publications and documents that analyze the pandemic evolution and record announcements, decisions, actions, debates and controversies between these actors in the period of 2020 to 2021. The results include the characterization of the action style of the central Actor and the analysis of conflicts between the Presidency, the Ministry of Health, ANVISA, state governments, the House of Representatives and the Senate and the Federal Supreme Court, seeking to correlate them with the debate around the political projects for health in dispute under the current circumstances. It is concluded that the central actor largely used a communicative action aimed at his supporters and strategic action characterized by imposition, coercion and confrontation in the relationships he maintained with other institutional actors, especially when they diverged from his viewpoints about how to face the health crisis, consistently with his connection to the ultra-neoliberal and authoritarian political project of the FG, which includes the deconstruction of the Brazilian Unified Health System.}, } @article {pmid37194101, year = {2023}, author = {Seljemo, C and Wiig, S and Røise, O and Ree, E}, title = {The role of local context for managers' strategies when adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic in Norwegian homecare services: a multiple case study.}, journal = {BMC health services research}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {492}, pmid = {37194101}, issn = {1472-6963}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Delivery of Health Care ; *Home Care Services ; Health Services ; Qualitative Research ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on healthcare systems around the world, and lack of resources, lack of adequate preparedness and infection control equipment have been highlighted as common challenges. Healthcare managers' capacity to adapt to the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial to ensure safe and high-quality care during a crisis. There is a lack of research on how these adaptations are made at different levels of the homecare services system and how the local context influences the managerial strategies applied in response to a healthcare crisis. This study explores the role of local context for managers' experiences and strategies in homecare services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A qualitative multiple case study in four municipalities with different geographic locations (centralized and decentralized) across Norway. A review of contingency plans was performed, and 21 managers were interviewed individually during the period March to September 2021. All interviews were conducted digitally using a semi-structured interview guide, and data was subjected to inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS: The analysis revealed variations in managers' strategies related to the size and geographical location of the homecare services. The opportunities to apply different strategies varied among the municipalities. To ensure adequate staffing, managers collaborated, reorganized, and reallocated resources within their local health system. New guidelines, routines and infection control measures were developed and implemented in the absence of adequate preparedness plans and modified according to the local context. Supportive and present leadership in addition to collaboration and coordination across national, regional, and local levels were highlighted as key factors in all municipalities.

CONCLUSION: Managers who designed new and adaptive strategies to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic were central in ensuring high-quality Norwegian homecare services. To ensure transferability, national guidelines and measures must be context-dependent or -sensitive and must accommodate flexibility at all levels in a local healthcare service system.}, } @article {pmid36940347, year = {2023}, author = {Millar, EV and Rossi, SP and Pollett, S and Saperstein, AK and Burgess, TH and Modi, J}, title = {Impact of Nonpharmaceutical Interventions During the COVID-19 Pandemic on Medically Attended Acute Respiratory Infection: The U.S. Naval Academy Experience.}, journal = {Military medicine}, volume = {188}, number = {5-6}, pages = {e953-e956}, pmid = {36940347}, issn = {1930-613X}, support = {/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; /NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Seasons ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Medically attended acute respiratory infections (MAARI) at the U.S. Naval Academy increase during Plebe Summer, a training program for incoming freshmen. Because of COVID-19, extensive nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPI) were implemented during 2020 Plebe Summer.

METHODS: We reviewed MAARI counts in weeks 22-45 from 2012 to 2020 and compared counts in pandemic (2020) vs. pre-pandemic (2012-2019) periods.

RESULTS: From 2012 to 2019, an average of 1,642 MAARI cases occurred annually. In 2020, 443 MAARI cases occurred. NPI use was associated with a 77% reduction in MAARI.

CONCLUSIONS: During a high-risk military training period, routine NPI use was associated with a major reduction in MAARI.}, } @article {pmid37196111, year = {2023}, author = {An, Y and He, Y and Ge, N and Guo, J and Yang, F and Sun, S}, title = {Organoids to Remodel SARS-CoV-2 Research: Updates, Limitations and Perspectives.}, journal = {Aging and disease}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.14336/AD.2023.0209}, pmid = {37196111}, issn = {2152-5250}, abstract = {The novel COVID-19 pneumonia caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus poses a significant threat to human health. Scientists have made significant efforts to control this virus, consequently leading to the development of novel research methods. Traditional animal and 2D cell line models might not be suitable for large-scale applications in SARS-CoV-2 research owing to their limitations. As an emerging modelling method, organoids have been applied in the study of various diseases. Their advantages include their ability to closely mirror human physiology, ease of cultivation, low cost, and high reliability; thus, they are considered to be a suitable choice to further the research on SARS-CoV-2. During the course of various studies, SARS-CoV-2 was shown to infect a variety of organoid models, exhibiting changes similar to those observed in humans. This review summarises the various organoid models used in SARS-CoV-2 research, revealing the molecular mechanisms of viral infection and exploring the drug screening tests and vaccine research that have relied on organoid models, hence illustrating the role of organoids in remodelling SARS-CoV-2 research.}, } @article {pmid37195746, year = {2023}, author = {Bojic, I and Mammadova, M and Ang, CS and Teo, WL and Diordieva, C and Pienkowska, A and Gašević, D and Car, J}, title = {Empowering Health Care Education Through Learning Analytics: In-depth Scoping Review.}, journal = {Journal of medical Internet research}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {e41671}, doi = {10.2196/41671}, pmid = {37195746}, issn = {1438-8871}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital education has expanded since the COVID-19 pandemic began. A substantial amount of recent data on how students learn has become available for learning analytics (LA). LA denotes the "measurement, collection, analysis, and reporting of data about learners and their contexts, for purposes of understanding and optimizing learning and the environments in which it occurs."

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to examine the use of LA in health care professions education and propose a framework for the LA life cycle.

METHODS: We performed a comprehensive literature search of 10 databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, ERIC, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ICTP, Scopus, and IEEE Explore. In total, 6 reviewers worked in pairs and performed title, abstract, and full-text screening. We resolved disagreements on study selection by consensus and discussion with other reviewers. We included papers if they met the following criteria: papers on health care professions education, papers on digital education, and papers that collected LA data from any type of digital education platform.

RESULTS: We retrieved 1238 papers, of which 65 met the inclusion criteria. From those papers, we extracted some typical characteristics of the LA process and proposed a framework for the LA life cycle, including digital education content creation, data collection, data analytics, and the purposes of LA. Assignment materials were the most popular type of digital education content (47/65, 72%), whereas the most commonly collected data types were the number of connections to the learning materials (53/65, 82%). Descriptive statistics was mostly used in data analytics in 89% (58/65) of studies. Finally, among the purposes for LA, understanding learners' interactions with the digital education platform was cited most often in 86% (56/65) of papers and understanding the relationship between interactions and student performance was cited in 63% (41/65) of papers. Far less common were the purposes of optimizing learning: the provision of at-risk intervention, feedback, and adaptive learning was found in 11, 5, and 3 papers, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: We identified gaps for each of the 4 components of the LA life cycle, with the lack of an iterative approach while designing courses for health care professions being the most prevalent. We identified only 1 instance in which the authors used knowledge from a previous course to improve the next course. Only 2 studies reported that LA was used to detect at-risk students during the course's run, compared with the overwhelming majority of other studies in which data analysis was performed only after the course was completed.}, } @article {pmid37195428, year = {2023}, author = {Maisch, B}, title = {SARS-CoV-2, vaccination or autoimmunity as causes of cardiac inflammation. Which form prevails?.}, journal = {Herz}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37195428}, issn = {1615-6692}, abstract = {The causes of cardiac inflammation during the COVID-19 pandemic are manifold and complex, and may have changed with different virus variants and vaccinations. The underlying viral etiology is self-evident, but its role in the pathogenic process is diverse. The view of many pathologists that myocyte necrosis and cellular infiltrates are indispensable for myocarditis does not suffice and contradicts the clinical criteria of myocarditis, i.e., a combination of serological evidence of necrosis based on troponins or MRI features of necrosis, edema, and inflammation based on prolonged T1 and T2 times and late gadolinium enhancement. The definition of myocarditis is still debated by pathologists and clinicians. We have learned that myocarditis and pericarditis can be induced by the virus via different pathways of action such as direct viral damage to the myocardium through the ACE2 receptor. Indirect damage occurs via immunological effector organs such as the innate immune system by macrophages and cytokines, and then later the acquired immune system via T cells, overactive proinflammatory cytokines, and cardiac autoantibodies. Cardiovascular diseases lead to more severe courses of SARS-CoV‑2 disease. Thus, heart failure patients have a double risk for complicated courses and lethal outcome. So do patients with diabetes, hypertension, and renal insufficiency. Independent of the definition, myocarditis patients benefitted from intensive hospital care, ventilation, if needed, and cortisone treatment. Postvaccination myocarditis and pericarditis affect primarily young male patients after the second RNA vaccine. Both are rare events but severe enough to deserve our full attention, because treatment according to current guidelines is available and necessary.}, } @article {pmid37195402, year = {2023}, author = {Toigo, L and Dos Santos Teodoro, EI and Guidi, AC and Gancedo, NC and Petruco, MV and Melo, EB and Tonin, FS and Fernandez-Llimos, F and Chierrito, D and de Mello, JCP and de Medeiros Araújo, DC and Sanches, ACC}, title = {Flavonoid as possible therapeutic targets against COVID-19: a scoping review of in silico studies.}, journal = {Daru : journal of Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37195402}, issn = {2008-2231}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This scoping review aims to present flavonoid compounds' promising effects and possible mechanisms of action on potential therapeutic targets in the SARS-CoV-2 infection process.

METHODS: A search of electronic databases such as PubMed and Scopus was carried out to evaluate the performance of substances from the flavonoid class at different stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESULTS: The search strategy yielded 382 articles after the exclusion of duplicates. During the screening process, 265 records were deemed as irrelevant. At the end of the full-text appraisal, 37 studies were considered eligible for data extraction and qualitative synthesis. All the studies used virtual molecular docking models to verify the affinity of compounds from the flavonoid class with crucial proteins in the replication cycle of the SARS-CoV-2 virus (Spike protein, PLpro, 3CLpro/ MPro, RdRP, and inhibition of the host's ACE II receptor). The flavonoids with more targets and lowest binding energies were: orientin, quercetin, epigallocatechin, narcissoside, silymarin, neohesperidin, delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside, and delphinidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside.

CONCLUSION: These studies allow us to provide a basis for in vitro and in vivo assays to assist in developing drugs for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37195393, year = {2023}, author = {Cheng, L and Lan, L and Ramalingam, M and He, J and Yang, Y and Gao, M and Shi, Z}, title = {A review of current effective COVID-19 testing methods and quality control.}, journal = {Archives of microbiology}, volume = {205}, number = {6}, pages = {239}, pmid = {37195393}, issn = {1432-072X}, abstract = {COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to severe illness. The virus is extremely contagious, early and accurate diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 is crucial to contain its spread, to provide prompt treatment, and to prevent complications. Currently, the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is considered to be the gold standard for detecting COVID-19 in its early stages. In addition, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LMAP), clustering rule interval short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), colloidal gold immunochromatographic assay (GICA), computed tomography (CT), and electrochemical sensors are also common tests. However, these different methods vary greatly in terms of their detection efficiency, specificity, accuracy, sensitivity, cost, and throughput. Besides, most of the current detection methods are conducted in central hospitals and laboratories, which is a great challenge for remote and underdeveloped areas. Therefore, it is essential to review the advantages and disadvantages of different COVID-19 detection methods, as well as the technology that can enhance detection efficiency and improve detection quality in greater details.}, } @article {pmid37194484, year = {2023}, author = {McCarthy, MW}, title = {Metformin as a potential treatment for COVID-19.}, journal = {Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1080/14656566.2023.2215385}, pmid = {37194484}, issn = {1744-7666}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Early treatment for SARS-CoV-2 infection is essential to limit clinical progression of COVID-19. However, limited therapeutic options are available for standard-risk patients, including those under age 50 who have received the primary series of COVID-19 vaccination as well as a bivalent booster.

AREAS COVERED: Metformin is a widely used, inexpensive antihyperglycemic for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2 as well as polycystic ovarian syndrome, with a well-described safety profile.

EXPERT OPINION: Although the mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated, metformin is known to alter glucose metabolism and is under investigation as an antiviral agent, demonstrating in vitro and in vivo activity against SARS-CoV-2. Recent work suggests metformin may also serve as a therapeutic option for patients with COVID-19 as well as those with post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, known more commonly as "long COVID-19." This manuscript examines what is known about metformin for the treatment of COVID-19 and explores how this drug may be used in the future to address the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37193960, year = {2023}, author = {Haimi, M}, title = {The tragic paradoxical effect of telemedicine on healthcare disparities- a time for redemption: a narrative review.}, journal = {BMC medical informatics and decision making}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {95}, pmid = {37193960}, issn = {1472-6947}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Telemedicine has become more convenient and advantageous due to the rapid development of the internet and telecommunications. A growing number of patients are turning to telemedicine for health consultations and health-related information. Telemedicine can increase access to medical care by removing geographical and other barriers. In most nations, the COVID-19 pandemic imposed social isolation. This has accelerated the transition to telemedicine, which has become the most commonly utilized method of outpatient care in many places. Telehealth can assist resolve gaps in access to healthcare services and health outcomes, in addition to its primary function of boosting accessibility to remote health services. However, as the benefits of telemedicine become more apparent, so do the limitations of serving vulnerable groups. Some populations may lack digital literacy or internet access. Homeless persons, the elderly, and people with inadequate language skills are also affected. In such circumstances, telemedicine has the potential to exacerbate health inequities.

AIM AND METHODS: In this narrative review (using the PubMed and Google scholar database), the different benefits and drawbacks of telemedicine are discussed, both globally and in Israel, with particular focus paid to special populations and to the telehealth usage during the Covid-19 period.

FINDINGS: The contradiction and paradox of using telemedicine to address health inequities yet sometimes making them worse is highlighted. The effectiveness of telemedicine in bridging access to healthcare inequities is explored along with a number of potential solutions.

CONCLUSIONS: Policy makers should identify barriers among special populations to using telemedicine. They should initiate interventions to overcome these barriers, while adapting them to the needs of these groups.}, } @article {pmid37193831, year = {2023}, author = {Narayanan, J and Tamilanban, T and Kumar, PS and Guru, A and Muthupandian, S and Kathiravan, MK and Arockiaraj, J}, title = {Role and mechanistic actions of protein kinase inhibitors as an effective drug target for cancer and COVID.}, journal = {Archives of microbiology}, volume = {205}, number = {6}, pages = {238}, pmid = {37193831}, issn = {1432-072X}, abstract = {Kinases can be grouped into 20 families which play a vital role as a regulator of neoplasia, metastasis, and cytokine suppression. Human genome sequencing has discovered more than 500 kinases. Mutations of the kinase itself or the pathway regulated by kinases leads to the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer's, viral infections, and cancers. Cancer chemotherapy has made significant leaps in recent years. The utilization of chemotherapeutic agents for treating cancers has become difficult due to their unpredictable nature and their toxicity toward the host cells. Therefore, targeted therapy as a therapeutic option against cancer-specific cells and toward the signaling pathways is a valuable avenue of research. SARS-CoV-2 is a member of the Betacoronavirus genus that is responsible for causing the COVID pandemic. Kinase family provides a valuable source of biological targets against cancers and for recent COVID infections. Kinases such as tyrosine kinases, Rho kinase, Bruton tyrosine kinase, ABL kinases, and NAK kinases play an important role in the modulation of signaling pathways involved in both cancers and viral infections such as COVID. These kinase inhibitors consist of multiple protein targets such as the viral replication machinery and specific molecules targeting signaling pathways for cancer. Thus, kinase inhibitors can be used for their anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic activity along with cytokine suppression in cases of COVID. The main goal of this review is to focus on the pharmacology of kinase inhibitors for cancer and COVID, as well as ideas for future development.}, } @article {pmid37193456, year = {2023}, author = {Ogunjimi, OB and Tsalamandris, G and Paladini, A and Varrassi, G and Zis, P}, title = {Guillain-Barré Syndrome Induced by Vaccination Against COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37578}, pmid = {37193456}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare but serious immune-mediated neurological condition characterized by damage to the peripheral nervous system. Two-thirds of cases of GBS are diagnosed following infection; however, vaccination has also been linked to GBS pathogenesis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to establish the prevalence of GBS following vaccination against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, describe the clinical and neurophysiological characteristics, and identify potential determinants. A systematic review of the literature regarding post-vaccination GBS was conducted using the PubMed database. Seventy papers were included. The pooled prevalence of GBS after vaccination against COVID-19 per has been established to be 8.1 (95% CI 30-220) per 1,000,000 vaccinations. Vaccination with vector vaccines - but not mRNA - has been associated with an increased risk of GBS. More than 80% of the patients developed GBS within 21 days following the first dose of the vaccination. The interval between the vaccination and GBS was shorter in patients who were vaccinated with mRNA versus vector vaccines (9.7±6.7 days versus 14.2±6.6 days). Epidemiological findings regarding post-vaccination GBS revealed a higher prevalence in males and people between the ages of 40 and 60 years, with a mean age of 56.8±16.1 years. The most common type was the acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy type. Most cases responded well to treatment. In conclusion, vaccination against COVID-19 with vector vaccines seems to increase the risk of GBS. GBS occurring following vaccination does differ in characteristics from GBS during the pre-COVID-19 era.}, } @article {pmid37193349, year = {2023}, author = {Martínez-Espinosa, E and Carvajal-Mariscal, I}, title = {Virus-laden droplet nuclei in vortical structures associated with recirculation zones in indoor environments: A possible airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2.}, journal = {Environmental advances}, volume = {12}, number = {}, pages = {100376}, pmid = {37193349}, issn = {2666-7657}, abstract = {Droplet nuclei dispersion patterns in indoor environments are reviewed from a physics view to explore the possibility of airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. This review analyzes works on particle dispersion patterns and their concentration in vortical structures in different indoor environments. Numerical simulations and experiments reveal the formation of the buildings' recirculation zones and vortex flow regions by flow separation, airflow interaction around objects, internal dispersion of airflow, or thermal plume. These vortical structures showed high particle concentration because particles are trapped for long periods. Then a hypothesis is proposed to explain why some medical studies detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 and others do not detect the virus. The hypothesis proposes that airborne transmission is possible if virus-laden droplet nuclei are trapped in vortical structures associated with recirculation zones. This hypothesis is reinforced by a numerical study in a restaurant that presented possible evidence of airborne transmission by a large recirculating air zone. Furthermore, a medical study in a hospital is discussed from a physical view for identifying the formation of recirculation zones and their relation with positive tests for viruses. The observations show air sampling site located in this vortical structure is positive for the SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Therefore, the formation of vortical structures associated with recirculation zones should be avoided to minimize the possibility of airborne transmission. This work tries to understand the complex phenomenon of airborne transmission as a way in the prevention of transmission of infectious diseases.}, } @article {pmid37193335, year = {2023}, author = {Jericevic, D and Brucker, B}, title = {Telemedicine in Overactive Bladder Syndrome.}, journal = {Current bladder dysfunction reports}, volume = {18}, number = {2}, pages = {103-108}, pmid = {37193335}, issn = {1931-7212}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review discusses the role and benefits of telemedicine as an integral component of the post-pandemic care paradigm in urological practice and, in particular, as part of the care of patients with overactive bladder (OAB).

RECENT FINDINGS: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of telemedicine across almost every medical specialty and (at least temporarily) swept away barriers including those regarding reimbursement and licensure. Telemedicine benefits patients and providers alike including savings on transportation costs, access to specialists or tertiary care from geographically remote locations, and minimized exposure to a contagious illness. Integration of telemedicine into clinical practice can reduce costs for office/exam space and staffing overhead, as well as facilitate greater scheduling efficiency. Many, if not most, aspects of care for the uncomplicated OAB patient can be as effectively managed remotely as with in-person encounters, across the treatment algorithm.

SUMMARY: Telemedicine will almost certainly remain a key component in the care of OAB, general urology, and throughout all medical specialties.}, } @article {pmid37193304, year = {2023}, author = {Xue, Y and Mei, H and Chen, Y and Griffin, JD and Liu, Q and Weisberg, E and Yang, J}, title = {Repurposing clinically available drugs and therapies for pathogenic targets to combat SARS-CoV-2.}, journal = {MedComm}, volume = {4}, number = {3}, pages = {e254}, pmid = {37193304}, issn = {2688-2663}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected a large portion of the global population, both physically and mentally. Current evidence suggests that the rapidly evolving coronavirus subvariants risk rendering vaccines and antibodies ineffective due to their potential to evade existing immunity, with enhanced transmission activity and higher reinfection rates that could lead to new outbreaks across the globe. The goal of viral management is to disrupt the viral life cycle as well as to relieve severe symptoms such as lung damage, cytokine storm, and organ failure. In the fight against viruses, the combination of viral genome sequencing, elucidation of the structure of viral proteins, and identifying proteins that are highly conserved across multiple coronaviruses has revealed many potential molecular targets. In addition, the time- and cost-effective repurposing of preexisting antiviral drugs or approved/clinical drugs for these targets offers considerable clinical advantages for COVID-19 patients. This review provides a comprehensive overview of various identified pathogenic targets and pathways as well as corresponding repurposed approved/clinical drugs and their potential against COVID-19. These findings provide new insight into the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies that could be applied to the control of disease symptoms emanating from evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants.}, } @article {pmid37193231, year = {2023}, author = {Sami, H and Firoze, S and Khan, PA and Fatima, N and Khan, HM}, title = {Face masks for respiratory viral illness prevention in healthcare settings: a concise systemic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Iranian journal of microbiology}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {181-188}, pmid = {37193231}, issn = {2008-3289}, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There are conflicting views regarding face mask guidelines amongst healthcare staff to prevent transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), influenza and other respiratory viral infections (RVIs). We conducted a thorough meta-analysis to statistically compare mask use versus no mask use efficacy for RVIs in healthcare settings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used for selecting researches published between 2003 and June 2022 from different databases, including Publisher Medline (PubMed), Web of Science, etc.; 6 studies qualified for inclusion. Data was pooled from in vivo randomized control, case-control and observational studies dealing with the relationship between face mask use and no use by patients or health personnel and RVI prevention in healthcare setups.

RESULTS: The fixed and random-effects model was carried out to determine pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95 percent confidence intervals (CIs). The results revealed that wearing a face mask significantly reduced the risk of contracting a respiratory viral illness in hospital settings, with pooled OR (95% CI) of 0.11 (0.04 to 0.33) (probability value (P) <0.08).

CONCLUSION: Masks largely succeeded in stopping respiratory virus transmission, as evidenced by the meta-analysis of 6 studies (a total of 927 individuals).}, } @article {pmid37193075, year = {2023}, author = {Sayahinouri, M and Mashayekhi Firouz, S and Ebrahimi Sadrabadi, A and Masoudnia, M and Abdolahi, M and Jafarzadeh, F and Nouripour, M and Mirzazadeh, S and Zangeneh, N and Jalili, A and Aghdami, N}, title = {Functionality of immune cells in COVID-19 infection: development of cell-based therapeutics.}, journal = {BioImpacts : BI}, volume = {13}, number = {2}, pages = {159-179}, pmid = {37193075}, issn = {2228-5652}, abstract = {Introduction: In late December 2019, a sudden severe respiratory illness of unknown origin was reported in China. In early January 2020, the cause of COVID-19 infection was announced a new coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Examination of the SARS-CoV-2 genome sequence revealed a close resemblance to the previously reported SARS-CoV and coronavirus Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV). However, initial testing of drugs used against SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV has been ineffective in controlling SARS-CoV-2. One of the key strategies to fight the virus is to look at how the immune system works against the virus, which has led to a better understanding of the disease and the development of new therapies and vaccine designs. Methods: This review discussed the innate and acquired immune system responses and how immune cells function against the virus to shed light on the human body's defense strategies. Results: Although immune responses have been revealed critical to eradicating infections caused by coronaviruses, dysregulated immune responses can lead to immune pathologies thoroughly investigated. Also, the benefit of mesenchymal stem cells, NK cells, Treg cells, specific T cells, and platelet lysates have been submitted as promising solutions to prevent the effects of infection in patients with COVID-19. Conclusion: It has been concluded that none of the above has undoubtedly been approved for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19, but clinical trials are underway better to understand the efficacy and safety of these cellular therapies.}, } @article {pmid37193051, year = {2022}, author = {Chen, D and Zhao, YG and Zhang, H}, title = {Endomembrane remodeling in SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, journal = {Cell insight}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {100031}, pmid = {37193051}, issn = {2772-8927}, abstract = {During severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, the viral proteins intimately interact with host factors to remodel the endomembrane system at various steps of the viral lifecycle. The entry of SARS-CoV-2 can be mediated by endocytosis-mediated internalization. Virus-containing endosomes then fuse with lysosomes, in which the viral S protein is cleaved to trigger membrane fusion. Double-membrane vesicles generated from the ER serve as platforms for viral replication and transcription. Virions are assembled at the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment and released through the secretory pathway and/or lysosome-mediated exocytosis. In this review, we will focus on how SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins collaborate with host factors to remodel the endomembrane system for viral entry, replication, assembly and egress. We will also describe how viral proteins hijack the host cell surveillance system-the autophagic degradation pathway-to evade destruction and benefit virus production. Finally, potential antiviral therapies targeting the host cell endomembrane system will be discussed.}, } @article {pmid37187735, year = {2023}, author = {Rubin, L and Talmon, A and Ribak, Y and Kessler, A and Martin, Y and Haran, TK and Shamriz, O and Adini, I and Tal, Y}, title = {Novel targeted inhibition of the IL-5 axis for drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1134178}, pmid = {37187735}, issn = {1664-3224}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Drug Hypersensitivity Syndrome/diagnosis/drug therapy/etiology ; Prospective Studies ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Eosinophilia/drug therapy/complications ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome represents a severe hypersensitivity reaction. Up-to-date treatment is based on withdrawal of medication, supportive care, and immunosuppression using high-dose corticosteroid (CS) therapy. However, evidence-based data are lacking regarding second-line therapy for steroid-resistant or steroid-dependent patients.

OBJECTIVES: We hypothesize that the interleukin (IL)-5 axis plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of DRESS; hence, inhibition of this signaling pathway could offer a potential therapy for steroid-dependent and/or steroid-resistant cases, and it may offer an alternative to CS therapy in certain patients more prone to CS toxicity.

METHODS: Herein, we collected worldwide data on DRESS cases treated with biological agents targeting the IL-5 axis. We reviewed all cases indexed in PubMed up to October 2022 and performed a total analysis including our center experience with two additional novel cases.

RESULTS: A review of the literature yielded 14 patients with DRESS who were treated with biological agents targeting the IL-5 axis as well as our two new cases. Reported patients are characterized by a female-to-male ratio of 1:1 and a mean age of 51.8 (17-87) years. The DRESS-inducing drugs, as expected from the prospective RegiSCAR study, were mostly antibiotics (7/16), as follows: vancomycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin, piperacillin-tazobactam, and cefepime. DRESS patients were treated with anti-IL-5 agents (mepolizumab and reslizumab) or anti-IL-5 receptor (IL-5R) biologics (benralizumab). All patients have clinically improved under anti-IL-5/IL-5R biologics. Multiple doses of mepolizumab were needed to achieve clinical resolution, whereas a single dose of benralizumab was often sufficient. Relapse was noted in one patient receiving benralizumab treatment. One patient receiving benralizumab had a fatal outcome, although mortality was probably related to massive bleeding and cardiac arrest due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection.

CONCLUSION: Current treatment guidelines for DRESS are based on case reports and expert opinion. Understanding the central role of eosinophils in DRESS pathogenicity emphasizes the need for future implementation of IL-5 axis blockade as steroid-sparing agents, potential therapy to steroid-resistant cases, and perhaps an alternative to CS treatment in certain DRESS patients more prone to CS toxicity.}, } @article {pmid37185176, year = {2023}, author = {AlOmair, O}, title = {Liver enzymes among COVID-19 patients in Al-Ahsa region of Saudi Arabia.}, journal = {BMJ open gastroenterology}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, pages = {}, pmid = {37185176}, issn = {2054-4774}, mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Saudi Arabia/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; Prognosis ; *Liver Diseases/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hepatic damage is one of the common forms of extra pulmonary organ destructions among patients with COVID-19 infections.

AIM: To evaluate the prognosis of liver damage among COVID-19 patients based on their liver enzymes profile.

METHODS: A retrospective study was done to evaluate the records of the hospitably admitted patient due to COVID-19 infection.Retrieved data included clinical presentation and investigation either imaging or laboratory with special investing in liver function tests.

RESULT: We reviewed 442 patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 infection.They were 64.5% of female patients and 35.5% of male patients. Their mean age was 54.5%, most of them were Saudi (76.7%) and the overall mortality reached up to (20.4%).

CONCLUSION: This large cohort of 442 patients has shown that liver damage may be an independent prognostic factor for morbidities and mortality among COVID-19 patients. It also showed the importance of liver function enzymes screening as a predictor for the outcome of those patients.}, } @article {pmid37185023, year = {2023}, author = {Chrdle, A and Bártlová, S and Chloubová, I}, title = {Postoje sester a studentů ošetřovatelství k očkování proti covid-19 - přehled.}, journal = {Epidemiologie, mikrobiologie, imunologie : casopis Spolecnosti pro epidemiologii a mikrobiologii Ceske lekarske spolecnosti J.E. Purkyne}, volume = {72}, number = {1}, pages = {25-39}, pmid = {37185023}, issn = {1210-7913}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19 Vaccines ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Vaccination ; Health Personnel ; }, abstract = {AIM: There is a discussion about COVID-19 vaccination rates among healthcare workers (HCW), especially nurses. The primary question for this review was: "What are the attitudes of nurses, compared to other HCW, towards COVID-19 vaccination?" The secondary questions included the proportion of nurses with intention to get vaccinated, what prevents the nurses from accepting the vaccine and what enables them to accept the vaccine.

METHODS: The PRISMA-ScR format for scoping reviews was chosen to respect the novelty of COVID-19 vaccines. Database search (PubMed/MEDLINE, PROquest and EBSCO) was performed for original studies in English language, from all geographies, with most recent search on March 20, 2022. Vaccination acceptance rates were charted for nurses and nursing students in one category, and HCW other than nurses in the other category. The evolution in time of the nurses attitude to vaccine acceptance relative to that of HCW other than nurses was charted post hoc. The factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination intention according to the WHO categories (contextual influences, individual/ group influences, and vaccine/vaccination specific issues) were reviewed as narrative summary.

RESULTS: Total 58 eligible studies were selected, all with cross-sectional study design, including 95418 healthcare workers of whom 33130 were nurses and 7391 were nursing students, from 44 countries in Europe, Americas, Africa and Asia. Trust in science, in doctors, in experts and in governments were the main contextual factors increasing vaccination acceptance mentioned in the studies, while altruism and collective protection, or protecting a person at risk at home was mentioned only few times. The nurses were less likely to accept vaccination compared to doctors and other HCWs at the onset, eg. before vaccine rollout, and this difference decreased with time (p = 0.022). Being older (n = 25 studies), being male (n = 23), having higher degree of education (n = 7), and having more years of clinical practice (n = 4) were associated with higher vaccination acceptance. Percieved individual risk of having severe COVID-19 (n = 14) or working in a COVID-19 dedicated units (n = 5) was mentioned in a minority of studies. The main vaccine-releated factors associated with higher vaccination intention were trust in the vaccine and its efficacy and safety, general vaccinatoin acceptance and specifically having had influenza vaccination in previous years (n = 21 studies). A significant factor associated with higher vaccine acceptance was high "vaccine knowledge", "vaccine literacy", "understanding the vaccine" or "understanding benefits and barriers of vaccination" (n = 17 studies).

CONCLUSIONS: Nurses have been more hesitant to accept COVID-19 vaccination than other healthcare professions at the beginning, but with time this difference disappeared. This general nurse attitude of wait-and-see reported in the studies corresponds with real-life data from practicing healthcare workers as reported by the Czech Institute of Health Information and Statistics on vaccination against COVID-19. Trust in scientific structures and vaccine makers increases the vaccine acceptance. The acceptance increases also with higher age, increasing level of education, longer clinical experience, and also with being a male. Vaccine literacy and having participated in previous vaccination programmes, especially influenza vaccine, were identified as independent modifiable factors increasing vaccination acceptance.}, } @article {pmid37138321, year = {2023}, author = {Ostadtaghizadeh, A and Zarei, M and Saniee, N and Rasouli, MA}, title = {Gender-based violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic: recommendations for future.}, journal = {BMC women's health}, volume = {23}, number = {1}, pages = {219}, pmid = {37138321}, issn = {1472-6874}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *Domestic Violence/psychology ; *Gender-Based Violence/psychology ; Pandemics ; *Sex Offenses ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Gender-based violence (GBV) includes any physical, sexual, psychological, economic harms, and any suffering of women in the form of limiting their freedom in personal or social life. As a global crisis, COVID-19 has exposed women to more violence, which requires serious actions. This work aims to review the most critical dimensions of the GBV against women, effective factors on it, and strategies for combating it during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to provide recommendations for future pandemics.

METHODS: This study was conducted based on PRISMA-ScR. First, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Google Scholar were searched in April 2021 with no time limitation and location using the related keywords to COVID-19 and GBV. The searched keywords were COVID-19, gender-based violence, domestic violence, sexual violence, women, violence, abuse, and their synonyms in MESH and EMTREE. Duplicates were removed, titles and abstracts were screened, and then the characteristics and main results of included studies were recorded in the data collection form in terms of thematic content analysis.

RESULTS: A total of 6255 records were identified, of which 3433 were duplicates. Based on inclusion criteria 2822 titles and abstracts were screened. Finally, 14 studies were eligible for inclusion in this study. Most of these studies were conducted in the United States, the Netherlands, and Iran, mostly with interventional and qualitative methods.

CONCLUSIONS: Strengthening ICT infrastructure, providing comprehensive government policies and planning, government economic support, social support by national and international organizations should be considered by countries worldwide. It is suggested that countries provide sufficient ICT infrastructure, comprehensive policies and planning, economic support, social support by collaboration between national and international organizations, and healthcare supporting to manage incidence of GBV against women in future pandemics.}, } @article {pmid37036291, year = {2023}, author = {Siampanopoulou, V and Tasouli, E and Angelousi, A}, title = {Diagnostic strategies in adrenal insufficiency.}, journal = {Current opinion in endocrinology, diabetes, and obesity}, volume = {30}, number = {3}, pages = {141-153}, doi = {10.1097/MED.0000000000000806}, pmid = {37036291}, issn = {1752-2978}, mesh = {Humans ; Hydrocortisone ; Chromatography, Liquid ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Adrenal Insufficiency/diagnosis ; COVID-19 Testing ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is the clinical manifestation of deficient production of glucocorticoids with occasionally deficiency also in mineralocorticoids and adrenal androgens and constitutes a fatal disorder if left untreated. The aim of this review is to summarize the new trends in diagnostic methods used for determining the presence of AI.

RECENT FINDINGS: Novel aetiologies of AI have emerged; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection was linked to increased frequency of primary AI (PAI). A new class of drugs, the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) widely used for the treatment of several malignancies, has been implicated mostly with secondary AI, but also with PAI. Salivary cortisol is considered a noninvasive and patient-friendly tool and has shown promising results in diagnosing AI, although the normal cut-off values remain an issue of debate depending on the technique used. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is the most reliable technique although not widely available.

SUMMARY: Our research has shown that little progress has been made regarding our knowledge on AI. Coronavirus disease 2019 and ICIs use constitute new evidence on the pathogenesis of AI. The short synacthen test (SST) remains the 'gold-standard' method for confirmation of AI diagnosis, although salivary cortisol is a promising tool.}, } @article {pmid37018543, year = {2023}, author = {Ziebart, C and Kfrerer, ML and Stanley, M and Austin, LC}, title = {A Digital-First Health Care Approach to Managing Pandemics: Scoping Review of Pandemic Self-triage Tools.}, journal = {Journal of medical Internet research}, volume = {25}, number = {}, pages = {e40983}, doi = {10.2196/40983}, pmid = {37018543}, issn = {1438-8871}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many patient-facing digital self-triage tools were designed and deployed to alleviate the demand for pandemic virus triage in hospitals and physicians' offices by providing a way for people to self-assess their health status and get advice on whether to seek care. These tools, provided via websites, apps, or patient portals, allow people to answer questions, for example, about symptoms and contact history, and receive guidance on appropriate care, which might be self-care.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to explore the state of literature on digital self-triage tools that direct or advise care for adults during a pandemic and to explore what has been learned about the intended purpose, use, and quality of guidance; tool usability; impact on providers; and ability to forecast health outcomes or care demand.

METHODS: A literature search was conducted in July 2021 using MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases. A total of 1311 titles and abstracts were screened by 2 researchers using Covidence, and of these, 83 (6.76%) articles were reviewed via full-text screening. In total, 22 articles met the inclusion criteria; they allowed adults to self-assess for pandemic virus, and the adults were directed to care. Using Microsoft Excel, we extracted and charted the following data: authors, publication year and country, country the tool was used in, whether the tool was integrated into a health care system, number of users, research question and purpose, direction of care provided, and key findings.

RESULTS: All but 2 studies reported on tools developed since early 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies reported on tools that were developed in 17 countries. The direction of care advice included directing to an emergency room, seeking urgent care, contacting or seeing a physician, being tested, or staying at home and self-isolating. Only 2 studies evaluated tool usability. No study demonstrated that the tools reduce demand on the health care system, although at least one study suggested that data can predict demand for care and that data allow monitoring public health.

CONCLUSIONS: Although self-triage tools developed and used around the world have similarities in directing to care (emergency room, physician, and self-care), they differ in important ways. Some collect data to predict health care demand. Some are intended for use when concerned about health status; others are intended to be used repeatedly by users to monitor public health. The quality of triage may vary. The high use of such tools during the COVID-19 pandemic suggests that research is needed to assess and ensure the quality of advice given by self-triage tools and to assess intended or unintended consequences on public health and health care systems.}, } @article {pmid36893355, year = {2023}, author = {Brooks, SK and Patel, D and Greenberg, N}, title = {Mental health of diplomatic personnel: scoping review.}, journal = {Occupational medicine (Oxford, England)}, volume = {73}, number = {3}, pages = {155-160}, pmid = {36893355}, issn = {1471-8405}, mesh = {Humans ; *Mental Health ; Government Employees ; *COVID-19 ; Health Personnel/psychology ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diplomatic personnel frequently relocate as part of their roles, requiring them to adapt to various cultural and political conditions; many are also at risk of experiencing trauma from being deployed to high-threat postings. With diplomatic personnel having to balance the usual pressures of their work with the uncertainties of COVID-19 in recent years, it is particularly important now to understand how to protect their mental health.

AIMS: To synthesize existing literature on the well-being of diplomatic personnel to improve understanding of how to protect their mental health.

METHODS: A scoping review was carried out to explore what is already known about the well-being of staff working in diplomatic roles. Four databases were searched and reference lists, as well as one key journal, were hand-searched.

RESULTS: Fifteen relevant publications were included. There was little consensus as to how the psychological well-being of diplomatic personnel compares to other populations or which factors predict well-being. Diplomats' psychological responses to traumatic experiences appeared similar to those of other trauma-exposed occupational groups.

CONCLUSIONS: Further research is needed to better understand the well-being of diplomatic personnel, particularly those not deployed to high-threat posts.}, } @article {pmid36647581, year = {2023}, author = {Hummel, T and Liu, DT and Müller, CA and Stuck, BA and Welge-Lüssen, A and Hähner, A}, title = {Olfactory Dysfunction: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment.}, journal = {Deutsches Arzteblatt international}, volume = {120}, number = {9}, pages = {146-154}, doi = {10.3238/arztebl.m2022.0411}, pmid = {36647581}, issn = {1866-0452}, mesh = {Humans ; Smell ; Quality of Life ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Olfaction Disorders/diagnosis/etiology/therapy ; COVID-19 Testing ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Disorders of the sense of smell have received greater attention because of the frequency with which they occur as a symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Olfactory dysfunction can lead to profound reduction in quality of life and may arise from many different causes.

METHODS: A selective literature review was conducted with consideration of the current version of the guideline issued by the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany.

RESULTS: The cornerstones of diagnosis are the relevant medical history and psychophysical testing of olfactory function using standardized validated tests. Modern treatment strategies are oriented on the cause of the dysfunction. While treatment of the underlying inflammation takes precedence in patients with sinunasal dysosmia, olfactory training is the primary treatment option for other forms of the disorder. The prognosis is determined not only by the cause of the olfactory dysfunction and the patient's age, but also by the olfactory performance as measured at the time of diagnosis.

CONCLUSION: Options for the treatment of olfactory dysfunction are available but limited, depending on the cause. It is therefore important to carry out a detailed diagnostic work-up and keep the patient informed of the expected course and prognosis.}, } @article {pmid37193049, year = {2022}, author = {Chen, Y and Liu, Q and Zhou, L and Zhou, Y and Yan, H and Lan, K}, title = {Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants: Why, how, and what's next?.}, journal = {Cell insight}, volume = {1}, number = {3}, pages = {100029}, doi = {10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100029}, pmid = {37193049}, issn = {2772-8927}, abstract = {The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant poses a striking threat to human society. More than 30 mutations in the Spike protein of the Omicron variant severely compromised the protective immunity elicited by either vaccination or prior infection. The persistent viral evolutionary trajectory generates Omicron-associated lineages, such as BA.1 and BA.2. Moreover, the virus recombination upon Delta and Omicron co-infections has been reported lately, although the impact remains to be assessed. This minireview summarizes the characteristics, evolution and mutation control, and immune evasion mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 variants, which will be helpful for the in-depth understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 variants and policy-making related to COVID-19 pandemic control.}, } @article {pmid37192861, year = {2022}, author = {Wang, H and Yang, S and Liu, J and Fu, Z and Liu, Y and Zhou, L and Guo, H and Lan, K and Chen, Y}, title = {Human adenoviruses: A suspect behind the outbreak of acute hepatitis in children amid the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Cell insight}, volume = {1}, number = {4}, pages = {100043}, doi = {10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100043}, pmid = {37192861}, issn = {2772-8927}, abstract = {As of 10 May 2022, at least 450 cases of pediatric patients with acute hepatitis of unknown cause have been reported worldwide. Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) have been detected in at least 74 cases, including the F type HAdV41 in 18 cases, which indicates that adenoviruses may be associated with this mysterious childhood hepatitis, although other infectious agents or environmental factors cannot be excluded. In this review, we provide a brief introduction of the basic features of HAdVs and describe diseases caused by different HAdVs in humans, aiming to help understand the biology and potential risk of HAdVs and cope with the outbreak of acute child hepatitis.}, } @article {pmid37192844, year = {2023}, author = {Chang, H and Zhang, J}, title = {Detecting nanoparticles by "listening".}, journal = {Frontiers of physics}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {53602}, doi = {10.1007/s11467-023-1287-1}, pmid = {37192844}, issn = {2095-0462}, abstract = {In the macroscopic world, we can obtain some important information through the vibration of objects, that is, listening to the sound. Likewise, we can also get some information of the nanoparticles that we want to know by the means of "listening" in the microscopic world. In this review, we will introduce two sensing methods (cavity optomechanical sensing and surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensing) which can be used to detect the nanoparticles. The cavity optomechanical systems are mainly used to detect sub-gigahertz nanoparticle or cavity vibrations, while surface-enhanced Raman scattering is a well-known technique to detect molecular vibrations whose frequency generally exceeds terahertz. Therefore, the vibrational information of nanoparticles from low-frequency to high-frequency could be obtained by these two methods. The size of the viruses is at the nanoscale and we can regard it as a kind of nanoparticles. Rapid and ultrasensitive detection of the viruses is the key strategies to break the spread of the viruses in the community. Cavity optomechanical sensing enables rapid, ultrasensitive detection of nanoparticles through the interaction of light and mechanical oscillators and surface-enhanced Raman scattering is an attractive qualitatively analytical technique for chemical sensing and biomedical applications, which has been used to detect the SARS-CoV-2 infected. Hence, investigation in these two fields is of vital importance in preventing the spread of the virus from affecting human's life and health.}, } @article {pmid37192839, year = {2023}, author = {Hu, J and Mougiakakou, S and Xue, S and Afshar-Oromieh, A and Hautz, W and Christe, A and Sznitman, R and Rominger, A and Ebner, L and Shi, K}, title = {Artificial intelligence for reducing the radiation burden of medical imaging for the diagnosis of coronavirus disease.}, journal = {European physical journal plus}, volume = {138}, number = {5}, pages = {391}, doi = {10.1140/epjp/s13360-023-03745-4}, pmid = {37192839}, issn = {2190-5444}, abstract = {Medical imaging has been intensively employed in screening, diagnosis and monitoring during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the improvement of RT-PCR and rapid inspection technologies, the diagnostic references have shifted. Current recommendations tend to limit the application of medical imaging in the acute setting. Nevertheless, efficient and complementary values of medical imaging have been recognized at the beginning of the pandemic when facing unknown infectious diseases and a lack of sufficient diagnostic tools. Optimizing medical imaging for pandemics may still have encouraging implications for future public health, especially for long-lasting post-COVID-19 syndrome theranostics. A critical concern for the application of medical imaging is the increased radiation burden, particularly when medical imaging is used for screening and rapid containment purposes. Emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technology provides the opportunity to reduce the radiation burden while maintaining diagnostic quality. This review summarizes the current AI research on dose reduction for medical imaging, and the retrospective identification of their potential in COVID-19 may still have positive implications for future public health.}, } @article {pmid37192595, year = {2023}, author = {Scholkmann, F and May, CA}, title = {COVID-19, post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS, "long COVID") and post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome (PCVS, "post-COVIDvac-syndrome"): Similarities and differences.}, journal = {Pathology, research and practice}, volume = {246}, number = {}, pages = {154497}, doi = {10.1016/j.prp.2023.154497}, pmid = {37192595}, issn = {1618-0631}, abstract = {Worldwide there have been over 760 million confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, and over 13 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered as of April 2023, according to the World Health Organization. An infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can lead to an acute disease, i.e. COVID-19, but also to a post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS, "long COVID"). Currently, the side effects of COVID-19 vaccines are increasingly being noted and studied. Here, we summarise the currently available indications and discuss our conclusions that (i) these side effects have specific similarities and differences to acute COVID-19 and PACS, that (ii) a new term should be used to refer to these side effects (post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome, PCVS, colloquially "post-COVIDvac-syndrome"), and that (iii) there is a need to distinguish between acute COVID-19 vaccination syndrome (ACVS) and post-acute COVID-19 vaccination syndrome (PACVS) - in analogy to acute COVID-19 and PACS ("long COVID"). Moreover, we address mixed forms of disease caused by natural SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination. We explain why it is important for medical diagnosis, care and research to use the new terms (PCVS, ACVS and PACVS) in order to avoid confusion and misinterpretation of the underlying causes of disease and to enable optimal medical therapy. We do not recommend to use the term "Post-Vac-Syndrome" as it is imprecise. The article also serves to address the current problem of "medical gaslighting" in relation to PACS and PCVS by raising awareness among the medical professionals and supplying appropriate terminology for disease.}, } @article {pmid37192109, year = {2023}, author = {Reid, B and Davis, LL and Gordon, L}, title = {Capturing what and why in healthcare innovation.}, journal = {BMJ leader}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1136/leader-2022-000642}, pmid = {37192109}, issn = {2398-631X}, abstract = {Understandings of innovation usually encompass multiple overlapping aspects, putting innovation terminology at risk of vagueness and overuse. However, innovation concepts are expected to remain powerful and useful in healthcare beyond the pandemic and into the future, so clarity will be helpful for effective leadership. To disentangle and disambiguate meanings within innovation, we offer a framework that captures and simplifies foundational substance within innovation concepts. Our method is an overview review of innovation literature from the 5 years preceding COVID-19. 51 sources were sampled and analysed for explicit definitions of healthcare innovation. Drawing on broad themes suggested from previous reviews, and gathering specific themes emergent from this literary dataset, we focused on categorising the nature of innovations (the what) and reasons given for them (the why). We identified 4 categories of what (ideas, artefacts, practice/process and structure) and 10 categories of why (economic value, practical value, experience, resource use, equity/accessibility, sustainability, behaviour change, specific-problem solving, self-justifying renewal and improved health). These categories reflect contrasting priorities and values, but do not substantially interfere or occlude each other. They can freely be additively combined to create composite definitions. This conceptual scheme affords insight and clarity for creating precise meanings, and making critical sense of imprecision, around innovation. Improved communication and clear shared understandings around innovative intentions, policies and practices cannot but improve the chances of enhanced outcomes. The all-inclusive character of this scheme leaves space for considering the limits of innovation, and notwithstanding well-established critiques, provides a basis for clarity in ongoing usage.}, } @article {pmid37191933, year = {2023}, author = {Hoedl, M and Osmancevic, S and Thonhofer, N and Reiter, L and Schoberer, D}, title = {Psychosocial interventions for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: rapid review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37191933}, issn = {1563-258X}, abstract = {This rapid review was conducted by following a predefined protocol developed by the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group. A total of 172 potential reviews and 167 primary studies of interest were found. AMSTAR II was used to assess the quality of the included reviews and the JBI Checklist for Randomized Controlled Trials for primary studies. Overall, four studies were included in this review. The study quality ranged from 5 to 12 out of 13 possible stars. No robust evidence was found that psychosocial interventions can reduce psychological distress. No significant effect could be found regarding post-traumatic stress. Two studies on anxiety were identified, one which showed an effect and another which did not. The psychosocial intervention had no beneficial effect on burnout and depression, whereas providing a mindfulness- or relaxation-based intervention resulted in a significant improvement in sleep quality. By considering the secondary results and results of previous reviews, a combination of training and mindfulness seems to be beneficial for decreasing anxiety and stress in home care workers. In summary, the evidence-based recommendations are still limited and, therefore, more evidence is needed to make a general statement of high certainty about the effects.}, } @article {pmid37191926, year = {2023}, author = {Pezeshki, PS and Ghorashi, SM and Houshmand, G and Ganjparvar, M and Pouraliakbar, H and Rezaei-Kalantari, K and Fazeli, A and Omidi, N}, title = {Feature tracking cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to assess cardiac manifestations of systemic diseases.}, journal = {Heart failure reviews}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37191926}, issn = {1573-7322}, abstract = {Feature-tracking cardiac magnetic resonance (FT-CMR), with the ability to quantify myocardial deformation, has a unique role in the evaluation of subclinical myocardial abnormalities. This review aimed to evaluate the clinical use of cardiac FT-CMR-based myocardial strain in patients with various systemic diseases with cardiac involvement, such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer-therapy-related toxicities, amyloidosis, systemic scleroderma, myopathies, rheumatoid arthritis, thalassemia major, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We concluded that FT-CMR-derived strain can improve the accuracy of risk stratification and predict cardiac outcomes in patients with systemic diseases prior to symptomatic cardiac dysfunction. Furthermore, FT-CMR is particularly useful for patients with diseases or conditions which are associated with subtle myocardial dysfunction that may not be accurately detected with traditional methods. Compared to patients with cardiovascular diseases, patients with systemic diseases are less likely to undergo regular cardiovascular imaging to detect cardiac defects, whereas cardiac involvement in these patients can lead to major adverse outcomes; hence, the importance of cardiac imaging modalities might be underestimated in this group of patients. In this review, we gathered currently available data on the newly introduced role of FT-CMR in the diagnosis and prognosis of various systemic conditions. Further research is needed to define reference values and establish the role of this sensitive imaging modality, as a robust marker in predicting outcomes across a wide spectrum of patients.}, } @article {pmid37190997, year = {2023}, author = {Hamdana, AH and Mohsin, H and Habib Tharwani, Z and Masood, W and Furqana, AQ and Sohail, A and Durdana, AR and Ashraf, MT and Uddin, N and Islam, Z and Essar, MY and Marzo, RR and Habib, Z}, title = {Monkeypox Virus and Other Emerging Outbreaks: An Overview and Future Perspective.}, journal = {Inquiry : a journal of medical care organization, provision and financing}, volume = {60}, number = {}, pages = {469580231175437}, doi = {10.1177/00469580231175437}, pmid = {37190997}, issn = {1945-7243}, abstract = {Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic disease caused by the MPX virus from the poxviridae family of orthopoxviruses. Typically, endemic in central and west Africa, it has now become a matter of concern since cases have been reported in non-endemic countries around mid-June 2022, especially in the European region, with the transmission not related to travel. The diagnosis is made by PCR testing of the skin lesions. Even though treatment is symptomatic, antiretrovirals, such as tecovirimat, are used in severe cases. Vaccination with second and third generation vaccines is approved for prophylaxis in high risk individuals. Unfortunately, these options of treatment and prevention are only available in high income countries at the moment. This review, through a thorough literature search of articles from 2017 onward, focuses on epidemiology, clinical manifestations, challenges, treatment, prevention and control of MPX virus and how they can be corelated with other viral outbreaks including COVID-19, Acute Hepatitis of unknown origin, Measles and Dengue, to better predict and therefore prevent its transmission. The previous COVID-19 pandemic increased the disease burden on healthcare infrastructure of low-middle income countries, therefore, this recent MPX outbreak calls for a joint effort from healthcare authorities, political figures, and NGOs to combat the disease and prevent its further spread not only in high income but also in middle- and low-income countries.}, } @article {pmid37190534, year = {2023}, author = {Uccella, S and Cordani, R and Salfi, F and Gorgoni, M and Scarpelli, S and Gemignani, A and Geoffroy, PA and De Gennaro, L and Palagini, L and Ferrara, M and Nobili, L}, title = {Sleep Deprivation and Insomnia in Adolescence: Implications for Mental Health.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/brainsci13040569}, pmid = {37190534}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {Sleep changes significantly throughout the human lifespan. Physiological modifications in sleep regulation, in common with many mammals (especially in the circadian rhythms), predispose adolescents to sleep loss until early adulthood. Adolescents are one-sixth of all human beings and are at high risk for mental diseases (particularly mood disorders) and self-injury. This has been attributed to the incredible number of changes occurring in a limited time window that encompasses rapid biological and psychosocial modifications, which predispose teens to at-risk behaviors. Adolescents' sleep patterns have been investigated as a biunivocal cause for potential damaging conditions, in which insufficient sleep may be both a cause and a consequence of mental health problems. The recent COVID-19 pandemic in particular has made a detrimental contribution to many adolescents' mental health and sleep quality. In this review, we aim to summarize the knowledge in the field and to explore implications for adolescents' (and future adults') mental and physical health, as well as to outline potential strategies of prevention.}, } @article {pmid37190492, year = {2023}, author = {Palermo, S and Stanziano, M and Nigri, A and Civilotti, C and Celeghin, A}, title = {Parkinson's Disease, SARS-CoV-2, and Frailty: Is There a Vicious Cycle Related to Hypovitaminosis D?.}, journal = {Brain sciences}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/brainsci13040528}, pmid = {37190492}, issn = {2076-3425}, abstract = {The literature has long established the association between aging and frailty, with emerging evidence pointing to a relationship between frailty and SARS-CoV-2 contagion. The possible neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection, associated with physical and cognitive frailty, could lead to a worsening of Parkinson's disease (PD) in infected patients or-more rarely-to an increase in the Parkinsonian symptomatology. A possible link between those clinical pictures could be identified in vitamin D deficiency, while the whole process would appear to be associated with alterations in the microbiota-intestine-brain axis that fall within the α-Synuclein Origin site and Connectome (SOC) model, and allow for the identification of a body-first PD and a brain-first PD. The model of care for this condition must consider intrinsic and extrinsic variables so that care by a multidisciplinary team can be successfully predicted. A multidimensional screening protocol specifically designed to identify people at risk or in the early stages of the disease should begin with the investigation of indices of frailty and microbiota-intestine-brain axis alterations, with a new focus on cases of hypovitaminosis D.}, } @article {pmid37190194, year = {2023}, author = {Liatsou, E and Ntanasis-Stathopoulos, I and Lykos, S and Ntanasis-Stathopoulos, A and Gavriatopoulou, M and Psaltopoulou, T and Sergentanis, TN and Terpos, E}, title = {Adult Patients with Cancer Have Impaired Humoral Responses to Complete and Booster COVID-19 Vaccination, Especially Those with Hematologic Cancer on Active Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Cancers}, volume = {15}, number = {8}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/cancers15082266}, pmid = {37190194}, issn = {2072-6694}, abstract = {The exclusion of patients with cancer in clinical trials evaluating COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and safety, in combination with the high rate of severe infections, highlights the need for optimizing vaccination strategies. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the published available data from prospective and retrospective cohort studies that included patients with either solid or hematological malignancies according to the PRISMA Guidelines. A literature search was performed in the following databases: Medline (Pubmed), Scopus, Clinicaltrials.gov, EMBASE, CENTRAL and Google Scholar. Overall, 70 studies were included for the first and second vaccine dose and 60 studies for the third dose. The Effect Size (ES) of the seroconversion rate after the first dose was 0.41 (95%CI: 0.33-0.50) for hematological malignancies and 0.56 (95%CI: 0.47-0.64) for solid tumors. The seroconversion rates after the second dose were 0.62 (95%CI: 0.57-0.67) for hematological malignancies and 0.88 (95%CI: 0.82-0.93) for solid tumors. After the third dose, the ES for seroconversion was estimated at 0.63 (95%CI: 0.54-0.72) for hematological cancer and 0.88 (95%CI: 0.75-0.97) for solid tumors. A subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate potential factors affecting immune response. Production of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was found to be more affected in patients with hematological malignancies, which was attributed to the type of malignancy and treatment with monoclonal antibodies according to the subgroup analyses. Overall, this study highlights that patients with cancer present suboptimal humoral responses after COVID-19 vaccination. Several factors including timing of vaccination in relevance with active therapy, type of therapy, and type of cancer should be considered throughout the immunization process.}, } @article {pmid37189896, year = {2023}, author = {Pallanti, S and Di Ponzio, M}, title = {PANDAS/PANS in the COVID-19 Age: Autoimmunity and Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation as Trigger Agents?.}, journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {10}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/children10040648}, pmid = {37189896}, issn = {2227-9067}, abstract = {COVID-19 impacted the entire world's population, frequently resulting in long-lasting neuropsychiatric complications. Furthermore, social distancing, lockdowns and fear for one's personal health worsen individual psychological wellbeing, especially in children and adolescents. Herein, we discuss the results of studies that specifically reported data about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic or infection on children with Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Disorders (PANS). Furthermore, we present the cases of five adolescents with PANS whose symptomatology increased following SARS-CoV-2 infection. What emerged from this study was that COVID-19 resulted in the exacerbation of obsessions, tics, anxiety and mood symptoms and decreased wellbeing. Moreover, new symptoms, as well as new PANS cases, are reported to have arisen after COVID-19 infection. Here, we hypothesize that the pathogenic mechanisms of silent viruses, such as the Epstein-Barr virus, are related to neuroinflammation, immune responses and reactivation, with additional roles played by social-isolation-related inflammatory processes. The discussion of PANS, which represents a model of immune-mediated neuropsychiatric manifestations, is particularly relevant, with the aim of uncovering the mechanisms that lead to neuropsychiatric Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS). Prospects for future studies and treatment implications are discussed.}, } @article {pmid37189854, year = {2023}, author = {Kersten, J and Schellenberg, J and Jerg, A and Kirsten, J and Persch, H and Liu, Y and Steinacker, JM}, title = {Strain Echocardiography in Acute COVID-19 and Post-COVID Syndrome: More than Just a Snapshot.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041236}, pmid = {37189854}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) has become an established, widely available diagnostic method in the past few years, making its value clear in cases of COVID-19 and the further course of the disease, including post-COVID syndrome. Since the beginning of the pandemic, many studies have been published on the use of STE in this condition, enabling, on the one hand, a better understanding of myocardial involvement in COVID-19 and, on the other, a better identification of risk to patients, although some questions remain unanswered in regard to specific pathomechanisms, especially in post-COVID patients. This review takes a closer look at current findings and potential future developments by summarising the extant data on the use of STE, with a focus on left and right ventricular longitudinal strain.}, } @article {pmid37189833, year = {2023}, author = {Surguchov, A and Emamzadeh, FN and Titova, M and Surguchev, AA}, title = {Controversial Properties of Amyloidogenic Proteins and Peptides: New Data in the COVID Era.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041215}, pmid = {37189833}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {For a long time, studies of amyloidogenic proteins and peptides (amyloidogenic PPs) have been focused basically on their harmful properties and association with diseases. A vast amount of research has investigated the structure of pathogenic amyloids forming fibrous deposits within or around cells and the mechanisms of their detrimental actions. Much less has been known about the physiologic functions and beneficial properties of amyloidogenic PPs. At the same time, amyloidogenic PPs have various useful properties. For example, they may render neurons resistant to viral infection and propagation and stimulate autophagy. We discuss here some of amyloidogenic PPs' detrimental and beneficial properties using as examples beta-amyloid (β-amyloid), implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and α-synuclein-one of the hallmarks of Parkinson's disease (PD). Recently amyloidogenic PPs' antiviral and antimicrobial properties have attracted attention because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing threat of other viral and bacterial-induced diseases. Importantly, several COVID-19 viral proteins, e.g., spike, nucleocapsid, and envelope proteins, may become amyloidogenic after infection and combine their harmful action with the effect of endogenous APPs. A central area of current investigations is the study of the structural properties of amyloidogenic PPs, defining their beneficial and harmful properties, and identifying triggers that transform physiologically important amyloidogenic PPs into vicious substances. These directions are of paramount importance during the current SARS-CoV-2 global health crisis.}, } @article {pmid37189823, year = {2023}, author = {Vilaplana-Carnerero, C and Giner-Soriano, M and Dominguez, À and Morros, R and Pericas, C and Álamo-Junquera, D and Toledo, D and Gallego, C and Redondo, A and Grau, M}, title = {Atherosclerosis, Cardiovascular Disease, and COVID-19: A Narrative Review.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041206}, pmid = {37189823}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory and degenerative process that mainly occurs in large- and medium-sized arteries and is morphologically characterized by asymmetric focal thickenings of the innermost layer of the artery, the intima. This process is the basis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the most common cause of death worldwide. Some studies suggest a bidirectional link between atherosclerosis and the consequent CVD with COVID-19. The aims of this narrative review are (1) to provide an overview of the most recent studies that point out a bidirectional relation between COVID-19 and atherosclerosis and (2) to summarize the impact of cardiovascular drugs on COVID-19 outcomes. A growing body of evidence shows that COVID-19 prognosis in individuals with CVD is worse compared with those without. Moreover, various studies have reported the emergence of newly diagnosed patients with CVD after COVID-19. The most common treatments for CVD may influence COVID-19 outcomes. Thus, their implication in the infection process is briefly discussed in this review. A better understanding of the link among atherosclerosis, CVD, and COVID-19 could proactively identify risk factors and, as a result, develop strategies to improve the prognosis for these patients.}, } @article {pmid37189799, year = {2023}, author = {Farooqui, AA and Farooqui, T and Sun, GY and Lin, TN and Teh, DBL and Ong, WY}, title = {COVID-19, Blood Lipid Changes, and Thrombosis.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041181}, pmid = {37189799}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Although there is increasing evidence that oxidative stress and inflammation induced by COVID-19 may contribute to increased risk and severity of thromboses, the underlying mechanism(s) remain to be understood. The purpose of this review is to highlight the role of blood lipids in association with thrombosis events observed in COVID-19 patients. Among different types of phospholipases A2 that target cell membrane phospholipids, there is increasing focus on the inflammatory secretory phospholipase A2 IIA (sPLA2-IIA), which is associated with the severity of COVID-19. Analysis indicates increased sPLA2-IIA levels together with eicosanoids in the sera of COVID patients. sPLA2 could metabolise phospholipids in platelets, erythrocytes, and endothelial cells to produce arachidonic acid (ARA) and lysophospholipids. Arachidonic acid in platelets is metabolised to prostaglandin H2 and thromboxane A2, known for their pro-coagulation and vasoconstrictive properties. Lysophospholipids, such as lysophosphatidylcholine, could be metabolised by autotaxin (ATX) and further converted to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). Increased ATX has been found in the serum of patients with COVID-19, and LPA has recently been found to induce NETosis, a clotting mechanism triggered by the release of extracellular fibres from neutrophils and a key feature of the COVID-19 hypercoagulable state. PLA2 could also catalyse the formation of platelet activating factor (PAF) from membrane ether phospholipids. Many of the above lipid mediators are increased in the blood of patients with COVID-19. Together, findings from analyses of blood lipids in COVID-19 patients suggest an important role for metabolites of sPLA2-IIA in COVID-19-associated coagulopathy (CAC).}, } @article {pmid37059325, year = {2023}, author = {Chandrasekar, N and Steffi, AP and Ramachandran, B and Hwang, MT and Faramarzi, V and Govarthanan, M}, title = {MXenes - Versatile 2D materials for identification of biomarkers and contaminants in large scale environments - A review.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {228}, number = {}, pages = {115900}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2023.115900}, pmid = {37059325}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Humans ; Biomarkers ; *COVID-19 ; Nucleotides ; SARS-CoV-2 ; }, abstract = {Recent years have seen a lot of interest in transition metal carbides/carbonitrides (MXenes), Which is one of newly proliferating two-dimensional (2D) materials.The advantages and applications of synthesizing MXenes-based biosensing systems are interesting. There is an urgent requirement for synthesis of MXenes. Through foliation, physical adsorption, and interface modification,it has been proposed that many biological disorders are related to genetic mutation. Majority of mutations were discovered to be nucleotide mismatches. Consequently, accurate -nucleotide mismatched discrimination is crucial for both diagnosing and treating diseases. To differentiate between such a sensitivealterations in the DNA duplex, several detection methods, particularly Electrochemical-luminescence (ECL) ones, have really been investigated.Mn+1XnTx is common name for MXenes, a novel family of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, where T stands for interface termination units (i.e. = O, OH, and/or F). These electronic characteristics of MXenes may be changed between conductive to semiconducting due to abundant organometallic chemistry.Solid-state ECL sensors predicated on MXene would provide the facile nucleotide detection and convenience for usage with minimal training, mobility and possibly minimal cost.This study emphasizes upcoming requirements and possibilities in this area while describing the accomplishments achieved in the usage and employing of MXenes in the research and development of facile biomarkerdetection and their significance in designing electrochemical sensors. Opportunities are addressed for creating 2D MXene materials sensors and devices with incorporated biomolecule sensing. MXenes Carry out this process sensors, address the advantages of using MXenes and their variants as detecting materials for gathering different types of data, and attempt to clarify the design principles and operation of related MXene-based sensors, such as nucleotide detection, Single nucleotide detectors, Cancer theranostics, Biosensing capabilities, Gliotoxin detection, SARS-COV-2 nucleocapsid detection, electrochemical sensors, visual sensors, and humidity sensors. Finally, we examine the major issues and prospects for MXene-based materials used in various sensing applications.}, } @article {pmid37058578, year = {2023}, author = {Kawuki, J and Chan, PS and Fang, Y and Chen, S and Mo, PKH and Wang, Z}, title = {Knowledge and Practice of Personal Protective Measures Against COVID-19 in Africa: Systematic Review.}, journal = {JMIR public health and surveillance}, volume = {9}, number = {}, pages = {e44051}, doi = {10.2196/44051}, pmid = {37058578}, issn = {2369-2960}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: With COVID-19 being a newly evolving disease, its response measures largely depend on the practice of and compliance with personal protective measures (PPMs).

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to examine the knowledge and practice of COVID-19 PPMs in African countries as documented in the published literature.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted on the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases using appropriate keywords and predefined eligibility criteria for the selection of relevant studies. Only population-based original research studies (including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies) conducted in Africa and published in the English language were included. The screening process and data extraction were performed according to a preregistered protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42022355101) and followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Thematic analysis was used to systematically summarize the studies into 4 predefined domains: knowledge and perception of PPMs, mask use, social and physical distancing, and handwashing and hand hygiene, including their respective levels and associated factors.

RESULTS: A total of 58 studies across 12 African countries were included, published between 2019 and 2022. African communities, including various population groups, had varying levels of knowledge and practice of COVID-19 PPMs, with the lack of personal protective equipment (mainly face masks) and side effects (among health care workers) being the major reasons for poor compliance. Lower rates of handwashing and hand hygiene were particularly noted in several African countries, especially among low-income urban and slum dwellers, with the main barrier being the lack of safe and clean water. Various cognitive (knowledge and perception), sociodemographic, and economic factors were associated with the practice of COVID-19 PPMs. Moreover, there were evident research inequalities at the regional level, with East Africa contributing 36% (21/58) of the studies, West Africa contributing 21% (12/58), North Africa contributing 17% (10/58), Southern Africa contributing 7% (4/58), and no single-country study from Central Africa. Nonetheless, the overall quality of the included studies was generally good as they satisfied most of the quality assessment criteria.

CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to enhance local capacity to produce and supply personal protective equipment. Consideration of various cognitive, demographic, and socioeconomic differences, with extra focus on the most vulnerable, is crucial for inclusive and more effective strategies against the pandemic. Moreover, more focus and involvement in community behavioral research are needed to fully understand and address the dynamics of the current pandemic in Africa.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42022355101; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022355101.}, } @article {pmid37189793, year = {2023}, author = {Escobio-Prieto, I and Blanco-Díaz, M and Pinero-Pinto, E and Rodriguez-Rodriguez, AM and Ruiz-Dorantes, FJ and Albornoz-Cabello, M}, title = {Quantitative Ultrasound and Bone Health in Elderly People, a Systematic Review.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041175}, pmid = {37189793}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Reduced bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis, and their associated fractures are one of the main musculoskeletal disorders of the elderly. Quickness in diagnosis could prevent associated complications in these people. This study aimed to perform a systematic review (SR) to analyze and synthesize current research on whether a calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS) can estimate BMD and predict fracture risk in elderly people compared to dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), following the PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted in the main open-access health science databases: PubMed and Web of Science (WOS). DXA is the gold standard for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Despite controversial results, it can be concluded that the calcaneal QUS tool may be a promising method to evaluate BMD in elderly people, facilitating its prevention and diagnosis. However, further studies are needed to validate the use of calcaneal QUS.}, } @article {pmid37189634, year = {2023}, author = {Boicean, A and Birlutiu, V and Ichim, C and Anderco, P and Birsan, S}, title = {Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041016}, pmid = {37189634}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Inflammatory bowel diseases represent a complex array of diseases of incompletely known etiology that led to gastrointestinal tract chronic inflammation. In inflammatory bowel disease, a promising method of treatment is represented by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), FMT has shown its increasing effectiveness and safety in recent years for recurrent CDI; moreover, it showed real clinical benefits in treating SARS-CoV-2 and CDI co-infection. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are characterized by immune dysregulation, resulting in digestive tract damage caused by immune responses. Most current therapeutic strategies are associated with high costs and many adverse effects by directly targeting the immune response, so modifying the microbial environment by FMT offers an alternative approach that could indirectly influence the host's immune system in a safe way. Studies outline the endoscopic and clinical improvements in UC and CD in FMT patients versus control groups. This review outlines the multiple benefits of FMT in the case of IBD by improving patients unbalanced gut, therefore improving endoscopic and clinical symptomatology. We aim to emphasize the clinical importance and benefits of FMT in order to prevent flares or complications of IBD and to highlight that further validation is needed for establishing a clinical protocol for FMT in IBD.}, } @article {pmid37189632, year = {2023}, author = {Saviano, A and Brigida, M and Petruzziello, C and Zanza, C and Candelli, M and Morabito Loprete, MR and Saleem, F and Ojetti, V}, title = {Intestinal Damage, Inflammation and Microbiota Alteration during COVID-19 Infection.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11041014}, pmid = {37189632}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The virus SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for respiratory disorders due to the fact that it mainly infects the respiratory tract using the Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. ACE2 receptors are also highly expressed on intestinal cells, representing an important site of entry for the virus in the gut. Literature studies underlined that the virus infects and replicates in the gut epithelial cells, causing gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting and anorexia. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 virus settles into the bloodstream, hyperactivating the platelets and cytokine storms and causing gut-blood barrier damage with an alteration of the gut microbiota, intestinal cell injury, intestinal vessel thrombosis leading to malabsorption, malnutrition, an increasing disease severity and mortality with short and long-period sequelae.

CONCLUSION: This review summarizes the data on how SARS-CoV-2 effects on the gastrointestinal systems, including the mechanisms of inflammation, relationship with the gut microbiota, endoscopic patterns, and the role of fecal calprotectin, confirming the importance of the digestive system in clinical practice for the diagnosis and follow-up of SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, } @article {pmid37189617, year = {2023}, author = {Chiarini, A and Gui, L and Viviani, C and Armato, U and Dal Prà, I}, title = {NLRP3 Inflammasome's Activation in Acute and Chronic Brain Diseases-An Update on Pathogenetic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives with Respect to Other Inflammasomes.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11040999}, pmid = {37189617}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Increasingly prevalent acute and chronic human brain diseases are scourges for the elderly. Besides the lack of therapies, these ailments share a neuroinflammation that is triggered/sustained by different innate immunity-related protein oligomers called inflammasomes. Relevant neuroinflammation players such as microglia/monocytes typically exhibit a strong NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Hence the idea that NLRP3 suppression might solve neurodegenerative ailments. Here we review the recent Literature about this topic. First, we update conditions and mechanisms, including RNAs, extracellular vesicles/exosomes, endogenous compounds, and ethnic/pharmacological agents/extracts regulating NLRP3 function. Second, we pinpoint NLRP3-activating mechanisms and known NLRP3 inhibition effects in acute (ischemia, stroke, hemorrhage), chronic (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, MS, ALS), and virus-induced (Zika, SARS-CoV-2, and others) human brain diseases. The available data show that (i) disease-specific divergent mechanisms activate the (mainly animal) brains NLRP3; (ii) no evidence proves that NLRP3 inhibition modifies human brain diseases (yet ad hoc trials are ongoing); and (iii) no findings exclude that concurrently activated other-than-NLRP3 inflammasomes might functionally replace the inhibited NLRP3. Finally, we highlight that among the causes of the persistent lack of therapies are the species difference problem in disease models and a preference for symptomatic over etiologic therapeutic approaches. Therefore, we posit that human neural cell-based disease models could drive etiological, pathogenetic, and therapeutic advances, including NLRP3's and other inflammasomes' regulation, while minimizing failure risks in candidate drug trials.}, } @article {pmid37189612, year = {2023}, author = {Grant, WB and Al Anouti, F and Boucher, BJ and Fakhoury, HMA and Moukayed, M and Pilz, S and Al-Daghri, NM}, title = {Evidence That Increasing Serum 25(OH)D Concentrations to 30 ng/mL in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates Could Greatly Improve Health Outcomes.}, journal = {Biomedicines}, volume = {11}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biomedicines11040994}, pmid = {37189612}, issn = {2227-9059}, abstract = {Accumulating evidence supports the potential protective effects of vitamin D against chronic diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune diseases, cancers, cardiovascular disease (ischaemic heart disease and stroke), type 2 diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, stroke, and infectious diseases such as acute respiratory tract diseases, COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia, as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes. The respective evidence is based on ecological and observational studies, randomized controlled trials, mechanistic studies, and Mendelian randomization studies. However, randomized controlled trials on vitamin D supplementation have largely failed to show benefits, probably due to poor design and analysis. In this work, we aim to use the best available evidence on the potential beneficial effects of vitamin D to estimate the expected reduction in incidence and mortality rates of vitamin D-related diseases in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates if minimum serum 25(OH)D concentrations were to be raised to 30 ng/mL. Estimated reductions by 25% for myocardial infarction incidence, 35% for stroke incidence, 20 to 35% for cardiovascular disease mortality, and 35% for cancer mortality rates depicted a promising potential for raising serum 25(OH)D. Methods to increase serum 25(OH)D concentrations at the population level could include food fortification with vitamin D3, vitamin D supplementation, improved dietary vitamin D intake, and sensible sun exposure.}, } @article {pmid37189600, year = {2023}, author = {Jaques-Albuquerque, LT and Dos Anjos-Martins, E and Torres-Nunes, L and Valério-Penha, AG and Coelho-Oliveira, AC and da Silva Sarandy, VL and Reis-Silva, A and Seixas, A and Bernardo-Filho, M and Taiar, R and de Sá-Caputo, DC}, title = {Effectiveness of Using the FreeStyle Libre[®] System for Monitoring Blood Glucose during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Diabetic Individuals: Systematic Review.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13081499}, pmid = {37189600}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an area of computer science/engineering that is aiming to spread technological systems. The COVID-19 pandemic caused economic and public health turbulence around the world. Among the many possibilities for using AI in the medical field is FreeStyle Libre[®] (FSL), which uses a disposable sensor inserted into the user's arm, and a touchscreen device/reader is used to scan and retrieve other continuous monitoring of glucose (CMG) readings. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the effectiveness of FSL blood glucose monitoring during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: This systematic review was carried out in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and was registered in the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42022340562). The inclusion criteria considered studies involving the use of the FSL device during the COVID-19 pandemic and published in English. No publication date restrictions were set. The exclusion criteria were abstracts, systematic reviews, studies with patients with other diseases, monitoring with other equipment, patients with COVID-19, and bariatrics patients. Seven databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Scielo, PEDro and Cochrane Library). The ACROBAT-NRSI tool (A Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-Randomized Studies) was used to evaluate the risk of bias in the selected articles.

RESULTS: A total of 113 articles were found. Sixty-four were excluded because they were duplicates, 39 were excluded after reading the titles and abstracts, and twenty articles were considered for full reading. Of the 10 articles analyzed, four articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Thus, six articles were included in the current systematic review. It was observed that among the selected articles, only two were classified as having serious risk of bias. It was shown that FSL had a positive impact on glycemic control and on reducing the number of individuals with hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the implementation of FSL during COVID-19 confinement in this population can be confidently stated to have been effective in diabetes mellitus patients.}, } @article {pmid37189499, year = {2023}, author = {Paramythiotis, D and Karlafti, E and Veroplidou, K and Fafouti, M and Kaiafa, G and Netta, S and Michalopoulos, A and Savopoulos, C}, title = {Drug-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {8}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13081398}, pmid = {37189499}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a systemic disease that affects not only the respiratory system, but also other systems, including gastrointestinal. A great number of different drugs have been used on hospitalized patients for the management of COVID-19, and acute pancreatitis (AP) has been reported as a complication or side effect of these drugs. The development of drug-induced acute pancreatitis (DIAP) follows a complex of pathophysiological mechanisms, and particular risk factors play a key role. Diagnosis of DIAP depends on specific criteria, and based on these, a drug may be characterized as having a definite, probable or possible connection with AP. The aim of this review is to present the medications that are used for COVID-19 management and are associated with AP in hospitalized patients. The list of these drugs mainly includes corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiviral agents, antibiotics, monoclonal antibodies, estrogens and anesthetic agents. Moreover, the prevention of the development of DIAP is vital, especially for critically ill patients who may receive multiple drugs. DIAP management is mainly non-invasive and the first step concerns the exception of the suspicious drug from patients therapy.}, } @article {pmid37189435, year = {2023}, author = {Mazari, AMA and Zhang, L and Ye, ZW and Zhang, J and Tew, KD and Townsend, DM}, title = {The Multifaceted Role of Glutathione S-Transferases in Health and Disease.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biom13040688}, pmid = {37189435}, issn = {2218-273X}, abstract = {In humans, the cytosolic glutathione S-transferase (GST) family of proteins is encoded by 16 genes presented in seven different classes. GSTs exhibit remarkable structural similarity with some overlapping functionalities. As a primary function, GSTs play a putative role in Phase II metabolism by protecting living cells against a wide variety of toxic molecules by conjugating them with the tripeptide glutathione. This conjugation reaction is extended to forming redox sensitive post-translational modifications on proteins: S-glutathionylation. Apart from these catalytic functions, specific GSTs are involved in the regulation of stress-induced signaling pathways that govern cell proliferation and apoptosis. Recently, studies on the effects of GST genetic polymorphisms on COVID-19 disease development revealed that the individuals with higher numbers of risk-associated genotypes showed higher risk of COVID-19 prevalence and severity. Furthermore, overexpression of GSTs in many tumors is frequently associated with drug resistance phenotypes. These functional properties make these proteins promising targets for therapeutics, and a number of GST inhibitors have progressed in clinical trials for the treatment of cancer and other diseases.}, } @article {pmid37189326, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, T and Zhai, Y and Xue, H and Zhou, W and Ding, Y and Nie, H}, title = {Regulation of Epithelial Sodium Transport by SARS-CoV-2 Is Closely Related with Fibrinolytic System-Associated Proteins.}, journal = {Biomolecules}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/biom13040578}, pmid = {37189326}, issn = {2218-273X}, abstract = {Dyspnea and progressive hypoxemia are the main clinical features of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Pulmonary pathology shows diffuse alveolar damage with edema, hemorrhage, and the deposition of fibrinogens in the alveolar space, which are consistent with the Berlin Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Criteria. The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is a key channel protein in alveolar ion transport and the rate-limiting step for pulmonary edema fluid clearance, the dysregulation of which is associated with acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome. The main protein of the fibrinolysis system, plasmin, can bind to the furin site of γ-ENaC and induce it to an activation state, facilitating pulmonary fluid reabsorption. Intriguingly, the unique feature of SARS-CoV-2 from other β-coronaviruses is that the spike protein of the former has the same furin site (RRAR) with ENaC, suggesting that a potential competition exists between SARS-CoV-2 and ENaC for the cleavage by plasmin. Extensive pulmonary microthrombosis caused by disorders of the coagulation and fibrinolysis system has also been seen in COVID-19 patients. To some extent, high plasmin (ogen) is a common risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection since an increased cleavage by plasmin accelerates virus invasion. This review elaborates on the closely related relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and ENaC for fibrinolysis system-related proteins, aiming to clarify the regulation of ENaC under SARS-CoV-2 infection and provide a novel reference for the treatment of COVID-19 from the view of sodium transport regulation in the lung epithelium.}, } @article {pmid37189215, year = {2023}, author = {Park, E and Choi, SY and Kim, J and Hildebrandt, N and Lee, JS and Nam, JM}, title = {Nanotechnologies for the Diagnosis and Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 and Its Variants.}, journal = {Small methods}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e2300034}, doi = {10.1002/smtd.202300034}, pmid = {37189215}, issn = {2366-9608}, abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, has caused well over 750 million infections and 6.8 million deaths. Rapid diagnosis and isolation of infected patients are the primary aims of the concerned authorities to minimize the casualties. The endeavor to mitigate the pandemic has been impeded by the emergence of newly identified genomic variants of SARS-CoV-2. Some of these variants are considered as serious threats because of their higher transmissibility and potential immune evasion, leading to reduced vaccine efficiency. Nanotechnology can play an important role in advancing both diagnosis and therapy of COVID-19. In this review, nanotechnology-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants are introduced. The biological features and functions of the virus, the mechanism of infection, and currently used approaches for diagnosis, vaccination, and therapy are discussed. Then, nanomaterial-based nucleic acid- and antigen-targeting diagnostic methods and viral activity suppression approaches that have a strong potential to advance both diagnostics and therapeutics toward control and containment of the COVID-19 pandemic are focused upon.}, } @article {pmid37189112, year = {2023}, author = {Kakavandi, S and Zare, I and VaezJalali, M and Dadashi, M and Azarian, M and Akbari, A and Ramezani Farani, M and Zalpoor, H and Hajikhani, B}, title = {Structural and non-structural proteins in SARS-CoV-2: potential aspects to COVID-19 treatment or prevention of progression of related diseases.}, journal = {Cell communication and signaling : CCS}, volume = {21}, number = {1}, pages = {110}, pmid = {37189112}, issn = {1478-811X}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by a new member of the Coronaviridae family known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). There are structural and non-structural proteins (NSPs) in the genome of this virus. S, M, H, and E proteins are structural proteins, and NSPs include accessory and replicase proteins. The structural and NSP components of SARS-CoV-2 play an important role in its infectivity, and some of them may be important in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases, including cancer, coagulation disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. The SARS-CoV-2 proteins interact with targets such as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 can stimulate pathological intracellular signaling pathways by triggering transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), CD147, and Eph receptors, which play important roles in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis, and multiple cancers such as glioblastoma, lung malignancies, and leukemias. Several compounds such as polyphenols, doxazosin, baricitinib, and ruxolitinib could inhibit these interactions. It has been demonstrated that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein has a stronger affinity for human ACE2 than the spike protein of SARS-CoV, leading the current study to hypothesize that the newly produced variant Omicron receptor-binding domain (RBD) binds to human ACE2 more strongly than the primary strain. SARS and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) viruses against structural and NSPs have become resistant to previous vaccines. Therefore, the review of recent studies and the performance of current vaccines and their effects on COVID-19 and related diseases has become a vital need to deal with the current conditions. This review examines the potential role of these SARS-CoV-2 proteins in the initiation of chronic diseases, and it is anticipated that these proteins could serve as components of an effective vaccine or treatment for COVID-19 and related diseases. Video Abstract.}, } @article {pmid37188939, year = {2023}, author = {Castelo-Soccio, L and Kim, H and Gadina, M and Schwartzberg, PL and Laurence, A and O'Shea, JJ}, title = {Protein kinases: drug targets for immunological disorders.}, journal = {Nature reviews. Immunology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37188939}, issn = {1474-1741}, abstract = {Protein kinases play a major role in cellular activation processes, including signal transduction by diverse immunoreceptors. Given their roles in cell growth and death and in the production of inflammatory mediators, targeting kinases has proven to be an effective treatment strategy, initially as anticancer therapies, but shortly thereafter in immune-mediated diseases. Herein, we provide an overview of the status of small molecule inhibitors specifically generated to target protein kinases relevant to immune cell function, with an emphasis on those approved for the treatment of immune-mediated diseases. The development of inhibitors of Janus kinases that target cytokine receptor signalling has been a particularly active area, with Janus kinase inhibitors being approved for the treatment of multiple autoimmune and allergic diseases as well as COVID-19. In addition, TEC family kinase inhibitors (including Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors) targeting antigen receptor signalling have been approved for haematological malignancies and graft versus host disease. This experience provides multiple important lessons regarding the importance (or not) of selectivity and the limits to which genetic information informs efficacy and safety. Many new agents are being generated, along with new approaches for targeting kinases.}, } @article {pmid37188891, year = {2023}, author = {Pathak, R and Gaur, V and Sankrityayan, H and Gogtay, J}, title = {Tackling Counterfeit Drugs: The Challenges and Possibilities.}, journal = {Pharmaceutical medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37188891}, issn = {1179-1993}, abstract = {Drugs that have been manufactured or packaged fraudulently are referred to as counterfeit/fake/spurious/falsified drugs because they either lack active ingredients or have the incorrect dosages. Counterfeiting of drugs has become a global issue with which the whole world is grappling. The World Health Organization states the frightening figure in which almost 10.5% of the medications worldwide are either subpar or fake. Although developing and low-income countries are the targets of the large-scale drug counterfeiting activities, fake/substandard drugs are also making their way into developed nations including the USA, Canada, and European countries. Counterfeiting of drugs is leading to not only economic loss but is also playing its part in the morbidity and mortality of patients. The recent COVID-19 pandemic fuelled the demand for certain categories of medicines such as antipyretics, remdesivir, corticosteroids, vaccines, etc., thus increasing the demand and manufacture of subpar/fake medicines. This review articulates the current trends and global impact of drug counterfeiting, current and potential measures for its prevention and the role of different stakeholders in tackling the menace of drug counterfeiting.}, } @article {pmid37188398, year = {2023}, author = {Al-Teete, R and Hassan, II and Abdul Kadir, A and AbuAlRub, R}, title = {Nursing lecturers' perception toward E-learning approaches used in nursing colleges: Scoping review.}, journal = {Journal of professional nursing : official journal of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing}, volume = {46}, number = {}, pages = {102-110}, doi = {10.1016/j.profnurs.2023.03.001}, pmid = {37188398}, issn = {1532-8481}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nursing colleges have traditionally taught students in hospitals and laboratories. COVID-19 compelled most nursing colleges to embrace e-learning without prior experience or preparation after 2020, which may influence nursing educators' views and attitudes toward its use.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review explores the nursing educators' perception of the e-learning approaches used in nursing colleges.

DESIGN: A comprehensive review of five databases, Cochrane, Ebsco (Medline), PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus, was conducted, adhering to the Joanna Brings Institute (JBI) standards full theme, utilizing preset eligibility criteria and adhering to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) recommendations.

METHODS: This scoping review examined studies published in English from January 1st, 2017-2022. Three reviewers evaluated the eligibility of the literature and retrieved data to address the research question from prior literature. A content analysis was done.

RESULTS: Thirteen articles with various hypotheses and models were reviewed. The review reveals that nursing educators are novices at using e-learning approaches in their classes due to their novelty in most nursing colleges. Nursing educators have a modest positive perception, with an optimistic perspective on e-learning effectiveness in theoretical course teaching, emphasizing that it is inappropriate in teaching clinical courses. The review demonstrates that e-learning faces numerous challenges that negatively impact educators' perceptions.

CONCLUSION: Institutional preparedness in terms of personnel through educator training, provision of necessary infrastructure, administrative support, and incentives are critical to improving the perception of the e-learning method and increasing its adoption in nursing colleges.}, } @article {pmid37188120, year = {2023}, author = {De Backer, D}, title = {Novelties in the evaluation of microcirculation in septic shock.}, journal = {Journal of intensive medicine}, volume = {3}, number = {2}, pages = {124-130}, doi = {10.1016/j.jointm.2022.09.002}, pmid = {37188120}, issn = {2667-100X}, abstract = {Microvascular alterations were first described in critically ill patients about 20 years ago. These alterations are characterized by a decrease in vascular density and presence of non-perfused capillaries close to well-perfused vessels. In addition, heterogeneity in microvascular perfusion is a key finding in sepsis. In this narrative review, we report our actual understanding of microvascular alterations, their role in the development of organ dysfunction, and the implications for outcome. Herein, we discuss the state of the potential therapeutic interventions and the potential impact of novel therapies. We also discuss how recent technologic development may affect the evaluation of microvascular perfusion.}, } @article {pmid37187739, year = {2023}, author = {Domínguez-Horta, MDC and Serrano-Díaz, A and Hernández-Cedeño, M and Martínez-Donato, G and Guillén-Nieto, G}, title = {A peptide derived from HSP60 reduces proinflammatory cytokines and soluble mediators: a therapeutic approach to inflammation.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1162739}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1162739}, pmid = {37187739}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {Cytokines are secretion proteins that mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation. They are crucial in the progress of acute inflammatory diseases and autoimmunity. In fact, the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines has been widely tested in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Some of these inhibitors have been used in the treatment of COVID-19 patients to improve survival rates. However, controlling the extent of inflammation with cytokine inhibitors is still a challenge because these molecules are redundant and pleiotropic. Here we review a novel therapeutic approach based on the use of the HSP60-derived Altered Peptide Ligand (APL) designed for RA and repositioned for the treatment of COVID-19 patients with hyperinflammation. HSP60 is a molecular chaperone found in all cells. It is involved in a wide diversity of cellular events including protein folding and trafficking. HSP60 concentration increases during cellular stress, for example inflammation. This protein has a dual role in immunity. Some HSP60-derived soluble epitopes induce inflammation, while others are immunoregulatory. Our HSP60-derived APL decreases the concentration of cytokines and induces the increase of FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) in various experimental systems. Furthermore, it decreases several cytokines and soluble mediators that are raised in RA, as well as decreases the excessive inflammatory response induced by SARS-CoV-2. This approach can be extended to other inflammatory diseases.}, } @article {pmid37187644, year = {2023}, author = {Zahedi, M and Kordrostami, S and Kalantarhormozi, M and Bagheri, M}, title = {A Review of Hyperglycemia in COVID-19.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37487}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.37487}, pmid = {37187644}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common chronic metabolic disorders worldwide, which increases the risk of common and opportunistic infections. Following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a higher incidence rate, more severe forms of the disease, and exacerbation of hyperglycemia and its complications have been observed in patients with DM. Moreover, stress-induced hyperglycemia has been observed in many hospitalized nondiabetic patients after contracting COVID-19. Hyperglycemia worsens prognosis in both diabetic and nondiabetic patients. In this study, the mechanism of new-onset or exacerbation of hyperglycemia, the effect of the treatments used for COVID-19 on hyperglycemia, the importance and appropriate method of blood glucose (blood sugar (BS)) control during the disease, and the possible fate of new-onset hyperglycemia after recovery from COVID-19 to some extent is expressed.}, } @article {pmid37187394, year = {2023}, author = {Hasan, M and Islam, ARMT and Jion, MMMF and Rahman, MN and Peu, SD and Das, A and Bari, ABMM and Islam, MS and Pal, SC and Islam, A and Choudhury, TR and Rakib, MRJ and Idris, AM and Malafaia, G}, title = {Personal protective equipment-derived pollution during Covid-19 era: A critical review of ecotoxicology impacts, intervention strategies, and future challenges.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {164164}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164164}, pmid = {37187394}, issn = {1879-1026}, abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, people used personal protective equipment (PPE) to lessen the spread of the virus. The release of microplastics (MPs) from discarded PPE is a new threat to the long-term health of the environment and poses challenges that are not yet clear. PPE-derived MPs have been found in multi-environmental compartments, e.g., water, sediments, air, and soil across the Bay of Bengal (BoB). As COVID-19 spreads, healthcare facilities use more plastic PPE, polluting aquatic ecosystems. Excessive PPE use releases MPs into the ecosystem, which aquatic organisms ingest, distressing the food chain and possibly causing ongoing health problems in humans. Thus, post-COVID-19 sustainability depends on proper intervention strategies for PPE waste, which have received scholarly interest. Although many studies have investigated PPE-induced MPs pollution in the BoB countries (e.g., India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar), the ecotoxicity impacts, intervention strategies, and future challenges of PPE-derived waste have largely gone unnoticed. Our study presents a critical literature review covering the ecotoxicity impacts, intervention strategies, and future challenges across the BoB countries (e.g., India (162,034.45 tons), Bangladesh (67,996 tons), Sri Lanka (35,707.95 tons), and Myanmar (22,593.5 tons). The ecotoxicity impacts of PPE-derived MPs on human health and other environmental compartments are critically addressed. The review's findings infer a gap in the 5R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Redesign, and Restructure) Strategy's implementation in the BoB coastal regions, hindering the achievement of UN SDG-12. Despite widespread research advancements in the BoB, many questions about PPE-derived MPs pollution from the perspective of the COVID-19 era still need to be answered. In response to the post-COVID-19 environmental remediation concerns, this study highlights the present research gaps and suggests new research directions considering the current MPs' research advancements on COVID-related PPE waste. Finally, the review suggests a framework for proper intervention strategies for reducing and monitoring PPE-derived MPs pollution in the BoB countries.}, } @article {pmid37187336, year = {2023}, author = {Kanj, SS and Haddad, SF and Meis, JF and Verweij, PE and Voss, A and Rautemaa-Richardson, R and Levy-Hara, G and Chowdhary, A and Ghafur, A and Brüggemann, R and Bal, AM and Schouten, J}, title = {The battle against fungi- lessons in antifungal stewardship from COVID-19 times: a consensus statement on behalf of the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics, European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Study Group for Antimicrobial Stewardship, and European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Fungal Infection Study Group.}, journal = {International journal of antimicrobial agents}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {106846}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2023.106846}, pmid = {37187336}, issn = {1872-7913}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly highlighted the detrimental effect of secondary pathogens in patients with a primary viral insult. In addition to superinfections with bacterial pathogens, invasive fungal infections were increasingly reported. While the diagnosis of pulmonary fungal infections has always been challenging, it became even more problematic in the setting of COVID-19 especially when it comes to the interpretation of the radiological findings and mycology test results in these patients. Moreover, the long duration of hospitalization in intensive care units coupled with underlying host factors such as multiple comorbidities including preexisting immunosuppression, the use of immunomodulatory agents and pulmonary compromise caused additional vulnerability to fungal infections in this patient population. In addition, the heavy workload during the COVID-19 outbreak, the redeployment of untrained staff, and sometimes the lack of gloves, gown and masks has made it more difficult for many healthcare workers to strictly adhere to infection control preventive measures. Taken together, these factors favored patient to patient spread of fungal infections such as those caused by Candida auris or environment to patient transmission such as nosocomial aspergillosis. Because fungal infections were associated with increased morbidity and mortality, empiric treatment was overly used and abused in COVID-19 infected patients, potentially contributing to increased resistance in fungal pathogens. In this paper, we aim to focus on essential elements of antifungal stewardship in COVID-19 for three fungal infections, namely COVID-19 associated candidemia (CAC), pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) and mucormycosis (CAM).}, } @article {pmid37187222, year = {2023}, author = {Lin, B and Cheng, L and Zhang, J and Yang, M and Zhang, Y and Liu, J and Qin, X}, title = {Immunology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination.}, journal = {Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {117390}, doi = {10.1016/j.cca.2023.117390}, pmid = {37187222}, issn = {1873-3492}, abstract = {Comprehensive elucidation of humoral immune responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and vaccination is critical for understanding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathogenesis in general and developing antibody-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies specifically. Following the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, significant scientific research has been conducted worldwide using omics, sequencing and immunologic approaches. These studies have been critical to the successful development of vaccines. Here, the current understanding of SARS-CoV-2 immunogenic epitopes, humoral immunity to SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins and non-structural proteins, SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies, and T-cell responses in convalescents and vaccinated individuals are reviewed. Additionally, we explore the integrated analysis of proteomic and metabolomic data to examine mechanisms of organ injury and identify potential biomarkers. Insight into the immunologic diagnosis of COVID-19 and improvements of laboratory methods are highlighted.}, } @article {pmid37186988, year = {2023}, author = {Younes, IE and Syler, L and Hamed, A}, title = {Review of clonal hematopoiesis, subtypes and its role in neoplasia and different morbidities.}, journal = {Leukemia research}, volume = {130}, number = {}, pages = {107307}, doi = {10.1016/j.leukres.2023.107307}, pmid = {37186988}, issn = {1873-5835}, abstract = {Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) is the development of a certain cell lineage which is the cornerstone of hematologic malignancy especially myeloid neoplasms, however, can also be found in old age (6th-7th decade). CH is caused by many different somatic mutations most commonly in DNMT3A, TET2, ASXL1, SF3B1 and TP53. It is detected by different sequencing methods, the most commonly used ones are next generation sequencing (NGS) which can be whole exome, whole genome sequencing or a panel for certain genes. CH is divided into multiple categories depending on the clinical picture associated with it into: clonal monocytosis of undetermined significance (CMUS), clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate significance (CHIP), clonal cytopenia and monocytosis of undetermined significance (CCMUS) and clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance (CCUS). In order to diagose CH, first other hematologic malignancies must be ruled out CH is also associated with many different entities including lung cancer and some studies have shown that COVID-19 infections are affected by CH. Certain traits and infections are associated with CH including smoking, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. A minority of patients with CH progress to a malignant process (between 0.5 %-2 %) which do not require treatment, however, any patient with CH should be kept under surveillance in order to detect any malignancy early and be treated accordingly. SIMPLE SUMMARY: Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) is considered to be the predisposing factor for development of different hematologic neoplasms. With the help of NGS, patients with CH can be monitored more closely. Several studies have shown that these patients might develop hematologic neoplasms in their lifetime. It has been subdivided into multiple groups according to the clinical picture and/or blood counts.}, } @article {pmid37186921, year = {2023}, author = {Doron, S and Monach, PA and Brown, CM and Branch-Elliman, W}, title = {Improving COVID-19 Disease Severity Surveillance Measures: Statewide Implementation Experience.}, journal = {Annals of internal medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.7326/M23-0618}, pmid = {37186921}, issn = {1539-3704}, abstract = {Measurement of the burden of COVID-19 on U.S. hospitals has been an important element of the public health response to the pandemic. However, because of variation in testing density and policies, the metric is not standardized across facilities. Two types of burdens exist, one related to the infection control measures that patients who test positive for SARS-CoV-2 require and one from the care of severely ill patients receiving treatment of COVID-19. With rising population immunity from vaccination and infection, as well as the availability of therapeutics, severity of illness has declined. Prior research showed that dexamethasone administration was highly correlated with other disease severity metrics and sensitive to the changing epidemiology associated with the emergence of immune-evasive variants. On 10 January 2022, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health began requiring hospitals to expand surveillance to include reports of both the total number of "COVID-19 hospitalizations" daily and the number of inpatients who received dexamethasone at any point during their hospital stay. All 68 acute care hospitals in Massachusetts submitted COVID-19 hospitalization and dexamethasone data daily to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health over a 1-year period. A total of 44 196 COVID-19 hospitalizations were recorded during 10 January 2022 to 9 January 2023, of which 34% were associated with dexamethasone administration. The proportion of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 who had received dexamethasone was 49.6% during the first month of surveillance and decreased to a monthly average of approximately 33% by April 2022, where it has remained since (range, 28.7% to 33%). Adding a single data element to mandated reporting to estimate the frequency of severe COVID-19 in hospitalized patients was feasible and provided actionable information for health authorities and policy makers. Updates to surveillance methods are necessary to match data collection with public health response needs.}, } @article {pmid37186920, year = {2023}, author = {Chou, R and Dana, T}, title = {Major Update: Masks for Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 in Health Care and Community Settings-Final Update of a Living, Rapid Review.}, journal = {Annals of internal medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.7326/M23-0570}, pmid = {37186920}, issn = {1539-3704}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Optimal use of masks for preventing COVID-19 is unclear.

PURPOSE: To update an evidence synthesis on N95, surgical, and cloth mask effectiveness in community and health care settings for preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection.

DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, EMBASE, medRxiv (3 June 2022 to 2 January 2023), and reference lists.

STUDY SELECTION: Randomized trials of interventions to increase mask use and risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection and observational studies of mask use that controlled for potential confounders.

DATA EXTRACTION: Two investigators sequentially abstracted study data and rated quality.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Three randomized trials and 21 observational studies were included. In community settings, mask use may be associated with a small reduced risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection versus no mask use, on the basis of 2 randomized trials and 7 observational studies. In routine patient care settings, surgical masks and N95 respirators may be associated with similar risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection, on the basis of 1 new randomized trial with some imprecision and 4 observational studies. Evidence from observational studies was insufficient to evaluate other mask comparisons due to methodological limitations and inconsistency.

LIMITATION: Few randomized trials, studies had methodological limitations and some imprecision, suboptimal adherence and pragmatic aspects of randomized trials potentially attenuated benefits, very limited evidence on harms, uncertain applicability to Omicron variant predominant era, meta-analysis not done due to heterogeneity, unable to formally assess for publication bias, and restricted to English-language articles.

CONCLUSION: Updated evidence suggests that masks may be associated with a small reduction in risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection in community settings. Surgical masks and N95 respirators may be associated with similar infection risk in routine patient care settings, but a beneficial effect of N95 respirators cannot be ruled out.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: None.}, } @article {pmid37186073, year = {2023}, author = {Loo, CY and Lee, WH and Zhou, QT}, title = {Recent Advances in Inhaled Nanoformulations of Vaccines and Therapeutics Targeting Respiratory Viral Infections.}, journal = {Pharmaceutical research}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37186073}, issn = {1573-904X}, abstract = {With the rapid outbreak of respiratory viral infections, various biological (e.g. vaccines, peptides, recombinant proteins, antibodies and genes) and antiviral agents (e.g. ribavirin, palivizumab and valaciclovir) have been successfully developed for the treatment of respiratory virus infections such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and SARS-CoV-2 infections. These therapeutics are conventionally delivered via oral, intramuscular or injection route and are associated with several adverse events due to systemic toxicity. The inherent in vivo instability of biological therapeutics may hinder them from being administered without proper formulations. Therefore, we have witnessed a boom in nanotechnology coupled with a needle-free administration approach such as the inhalation route for the delivery of complex therapeutics to treat respiratory infections. This review discussed the recent advances in the inhalation strategies of nanoformulations that target virus respiratory infections.}, } @article {pmid37185833, year = {2023}, author = {Qudus, MS and Tian, M and Sirajuddin, S and Liu, S and Afaq, U and Wali, M and Liu, J and Pan, P and Luo, Z and Zhang, Q and Yang, G and Wan, P and Li, Y and Wu, J}, title = {The roles of critical pro-inflammatory cytokines in the drive of cytokine storm during SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, journal = {Journal of medical virology}, volume = {95}, number = {4}, pages = {e28751}, doi = {10.1002/jmv.28751}, pmid = {37185833}, issn = {1096-9071}, abstract = {In patients with severe COVID-19, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and even mortality can result from cytokine storm, which is a hyperinflammatory medical condition caused by the excessive and uncontrolled release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. High levels of numerous crucial pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-2, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon (IFN)-γ, IFN-induced protein 10 kDa, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and IL-10 and so on, have been found in severe COVID-19. They participate in cascade amplification pathways of pro-inflammatory responses through complex inflammatory networks. Here, we review the involvements of these critical inflammatory cytokines in SARS-CoV-2 infection and discuss their potential roles in triggering or regulating cytokine storm, which can help to understand the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19. So far, there is rarely effective therapeutic strategy for patients with cytokine storm besides using glucocorticoids, which is proved to result in fatal side effects. Clarifying the roles of key involved cytokines in the complex inflammatory network of cytokine storm will help to develop an ideal therapeutic intervention, such as neutralizing antibody of certain cytokine or inhibitor of some inflammatory signal pathways.}, } @article {pmid37185755, year = {2023}, author = {Starikova, EA and Rubinstein, AA and Mammedova, JT and Isakov, DV and Kudryavtsev, IV}, title = {Regulated Arginine Metabolism in Immunopathogenesis of a Wide Range of Diseases: Is There a Way to Pass between Scylla and Charybdis?.}, journal = {Current issues in molecular biology}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {3525-3551}, doi = {10.3390/cimb45040231}, pmid = {37185755}, issn = {1467-3045}, abstract = {More than a century has passed since arginine was discovered, but the metabolism of the amino acid never ceases to amaze researchers. Being a conditionally essential amino acid, arginine performs many important homeostatic functions in the body; it is involved in the regulation of the cardiovascular system and regeneration processes. In recent years, more and more facts have been accumulating that demonstrate a close relationship between arginine metabolic pathways and immune responses. This opens new opportunities for the development of original ways to treat diseases associated with suppressed or increased activity of the immune system. In this review, we analyze the literature describing the role of arginine metabolism in the immunopathogenesis of a wide range of diseases, and discuss arginine-dependent processes as a possible target for therapeutic approaches.}, } @article {pmid37185727, year = {2023}, author = {Mondini, L and Salton, F and Trotta, L and Bozzi, C and Pozzan, R and Barbieri, M and Tavano, S and Lerda, S and Hughes, M and Confalonieri, M and Confalonieri, P and Ruaro, B}, title = {Host-Based Treatments for Severe COVID-19.}, journal = {Current issues in molecular biology}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {3102-3121}, doi = {10.3390/cimb45040203}, pmid = {37185727}, issn = {1467-3045}, abstract = {COVID-19 has been a global health problem since 2020. There are different spectrums of manifestation of this disease, ranging from asymptomatic to extremely severe forms requiring admission to intensive care units and life-support therapies, mainly due to severe pneumonia. The progressive understanding of this disease has allowed researchers and clinicians to implement different therapeutic alternatives, depending on both the severity of clinical involvement and the causative molecular mechanism that has been progressively explored. In this review, we analysed the main therapeutic options available to date based on modulating the host inflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with severe and critical illness. Although current guidelines are moving toward a personalised treatment approach titrated on the timing of presentation, disease severity, and laboratory parameters, future research is needed to identify additional biomarkers that can anticipate the disease course and guide targeted interventions on an individual basis.}, } @article {pmid37185723, year = {2023}, author = {Montori, M and Baroni, GS and Santori, P and Di Giampaolo, C and Ponziani, F and Abenavoli, L and Scarpellini, E}, title = {Liver Damage and COVID-19: At Least a "Two-Hit" Story in Systematic Review.}, journal = {Current issues in molecular biology}, volume = {45}, number = {4}, pages = {3035-3047}, doi = {10.3390/cimb45040199}, pmid = {37185723}, issn = {1467-3045}, abstract = {COVID-19 pandemic waves have hit on our lives with pulmonary and, also, gastrointestinal symptoms. The latter also includes acute liver damage linked to direct SARS-CoV-2 action and/or drug-induced (DILI) in the frame of pre-existing chronic liver disease. We aimed to review literature data regarding liver damage during COVID-19. We conducted a systematic search on the main medical databases for original articles, reviews, meta-analyses, randomized clinical trials and case series using the following keywords and acronyms and their associations: liver disease, COVID-19, acute liver damage, drug-induced liver injury, antivirals. Acute liver damage due to SARS-CoV-2 infection is common among COVID-19 patients and is generally self-limiting. However, chronic hepatic diseases, such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), are associated with a less favorable prognosis, especially when alkaline phosphatases show a significant rise. Pathophysiology of COVID-19 liver damage is multifaceted and helps understand differences in liver derangement among patients. Thus, early recognition, monitoring and treatment of liver damage are crucial in these patients. In the frame of a not-ending pandemic sustained by SARS-CoV-2, it is crucial to recognize acute hepatic decompensation due to the virus and/or drugs used for COVID-19 treatment.}, } @article {pmid37185566, year = {2023}, author = {Trinh, KTL and Do, HDK and Lee, NY}, title = {Recent Advances in Molecular and Immunological Diagnostic Platform for Virus Detection: A Review.}, journal = {Biosensors}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/bios13040490}, pmid = {37185566}, issn = {2079-6374}, abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused an ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak and a rising demand for the development of accurate, timely, and cost-effective diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 as well as other viral infections in general. Currently, traditional virus screening methods such as plate culturing and real-time PCR are considered the gold standard with accurate and sensitive results. However, these methods still require sophisticated equipment, trained personnel, and a long analysis time. Alternatively, with the integration of microfluidic and biosensor technologies, microfluidic-based biosensors offer the ability to perform sample preparation and simultaneous detection of many analyses in one platform. High sensitivity, accuracy, portability, low cost, high throughput, and real-time detection can be achieved using a single platform. This review presents recent advances in microfluidic-based biosensors from many works to demonstrate the advantages of merging the two technologies for sensing viruses. Different platforms for virus detection are classified into two main sections: immunoassays and molecular assays. Moreover, available commercial sensing tests are analyzed.}, } @article {pmid37185117, year = {2023}, author = {Burnett, DM and Skinner, CE}, title = {Year in Review: Long COVID and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.}, journal = {Respiratory care}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.4187/respcare.10928}, pmid = {37185117}, issn = {1943-3654}, abstract = {There have been an estimated 100 million people diagnosed with COVID-19 in the United States, with a majority of patients reporting persistent symptoms expressed as long COVID. The 2 most frequently reported long COVID symptoms are shortness of breath and fatigue. Exercise training during pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a successful strategy for improving the lives of people with persistent respiratory symptoms caused by a variety of lung diseases. This narrative review assessed the impact of exercise interventions on functional exercise capacity measures and related symptoms (dyspnea, fatigue) in people with long COVID over the last year. Articles were accessed through electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL Plus with full text (EBSCO), and LitCovid. Findings for this Year in Review revealed that exercise interventions and PR show promise for improving functional exercise capacity, dyspnea, and fatigue in people with long COVID. This review supports the need for more rigorous scientific studies on the benefits of structured PR in people with long COVID who have respiratory-related symptoms.}, } @article {pmid37184812, year = {2023}, author = {Ferrante, L and Fearnside, PM}, title = {Brazil's Amazon Oxygen Crisis: How Lives and Health Were Sacrificed During the Peak of COVID-19 to Promote an Agenda with Long-Term Consequences for the Environment, Indigenous Peoples, and Health.}, journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37184812}, issn = {2196-8837}, abstract = {In January 2021, oxygen supplies in the Amazon region's largest city were allowed to run out at the peak of the second wave of the COVID-19 epidemic, shocking the world as hospital patients expired for lack of this basic medical resource in Manaus, which during the first COVID-19 wave had become the world's first city to bury its dead in mass graves. Brazil's authorities used this tragedy to further a political agenda that implies enormous environmental and human-rights consequences. Transport of oxygen was used to promote building a road that, together with its planned side roads, would give deforesters access to much of what remains of Brazil's Amazon Forest. Here, we demonstrate that the logistical strategy adopted by the Jair Bolsonaro administration's Ministries of Health and Infrastructure to bring oxygen to Manaus was the worst possible choice, and the foreseeable delay in the arrival of oxygen cost hundreds of lives. Rather than sending trucks to carry oxygen on the nearly impassible Highway BR-319 during the rainy season, the most appropriate transport option was barges on the Madeira River. As oxygen supplies dwindled in Manaus, the families of wealthier COVID-19 victims scrambled to buy the few remaining cylinders at prices out of reach for those in poorer (and often ethnically distinct) economic strata. Ethnic health disparities are aggravated by both the direct consequences of the oxygen crisis and, on the longer term, by the consequences of the highway project that political use of the crisis materially advanced.}, } @article {pmid37184668, year = {2023}, author = {Szabo, S}, title = {The post-COVID stress syndrome: from the three-stage stress response of Hans Selye to COVID-19.}, journal = {Inflammopharmacology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37184668}, issn = {1568-5608}, abstract = {Stress is the nonspecific response of the body to any demand made upon it, as defined by Hans Selye more than 80 years ago, based on his animal experiments at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. By emphasizing 'nonspecificity' he tried to underline that stress response is elicited my several factors, like nowadays in COVID-19, e.g., fear of infection, social isolation, death in family, loss of employment, etc. Thus, COVID-19 has been the largest new human stressor in the twenty-first century. Selye's studies in rats also revealed 3 stages of stress response: the short initial "alarm reaction" is followed by a longer "stage of resistance", associated with increased levels of corticosterone that is often terminated by a "stage of exhaustion", referring to an exhausted adrenal cortex when the secretion of glucocorticoids drops. Fast forward, that is exactly what has been documented in severe cases of infections caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus: in hospitalized COVID-19 patients initially the blood levels of cortisol not only have been elevated, but only those with high concentration of this natural anti-inflammatory corticosteroid survived vs. those who had low levels of cortisol, suggesting diminished adrenocortical functions. Furthermore, patients with very severe cases of COVID-19 who ended up in intensive care units had significantly low cortisol blood levels, compared to patients with equal severity of diseases due to other causes. Thus, these 'natural phenomena' in clinical medicine, unfortunately confirmed Selye's studies in experimental animals several decades ago. Still, the good news is that astute clinicians empirically recognized this and started to give potent synthetic glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone to severe COVD-19 patients and this beneficial effect of exogenous corticoids has been extensively confirmed in the scientific literature.}, } @article {pmid37184292, year = {2023}, author = {Ramanadhan, S and Hansen, K and Henderson, JT and Cohen, MA and Paynter, R and Edelman, A}, title = {Risk of thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 who are using hormonal contraception.}, journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {CD014908}, pmid = {37184292}, issn = {1469-493X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has led to significant mortality and morbidity, including a high incidence of related thrombotic events. There has been concern regarding hormonal contraception use during the COVID-19 pandemic, as this is an independent risk factor for thrombosis, particularly with estrogen-containing formulations. However, higher estrogen levels may be protective against severe COVID-19 disease. Evidence for risks of hormonal contraception use during the COVID-19 pandemic is sparse. We conducted a living systematic review that will be updated as new data emerge on the risk of thromboembolism with hormonal contraception use in patients with COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES: To determine if use of hormonal contraception increases risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism in women with COVID-19. To determine if use of hormonal contraception increases other markers of COVID-19 severity including hospitalization in the intensive care unit, acute respiratory distress syndrome, intubation, and mortality. A secondary objective is to maintain the currency of the evidence, using a living systematic review approach.

SEARCH METHODS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, Global Health, and Scopus from inception on March 2023, and monitored the literature monthly. We updated the search strategies with new terms and added the database Global Index Medicus in lieu of LILACS.

SELECTION CRITERIA: We included all published and ongoing studies of patients with COVID-19 comparing outcomes of those on hormonal contraception versus those not on hormonal contraception. This included case series and non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSI).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: One review author extracted study data and this was checked by a second author. Two authors individually assessed risk of bias for the comparative studies using the ROBINS-I tool and a third helped reconcile differences. For the living systematic review, we will publish updates to our synthesis every six months. In the event that we identify a study with a more rigorous study design than the current included evidence prior to the planned six-month update, we will expedite the synthesis publication.

MAIN RESULTS: We included three comparative NRSIs with 314,704 participants total and two case series describing 13 patients. The three NRSIs had serious to critical risk of bias in several domains and low study quality. Only one NRSI ascertained current use of contraceptives based on patient report; the other two used diagnostic codes within medical records to assess hormonal contraception use, but did not confirm current use nor indication for use. None of the NRSIs included thromboembolism as an outcome. Studies were not similar enough in terms of their outcomes, interventions, and study populations to combine with meta-analyses. We therefore narratively synthesized all included studies. Based on results from one NRSI, there may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception use on odds of mortality for COVID-19 positive patients (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.41 to 2.40; 1 study, 18,892 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Two NRSIs examined hospitalization rates for hormonal contraception users versus non-users. Based on results from one NRSI, the odds of hospitalization for COVID-19 positive combined hormonal contraception users may be slightly decreased compared with non-users for patients with BMI under 35 kg/m[2] (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.97; 1 study, 295,689 participants; very low-certainty evidence). According to results of the other NRSI assessing use of any type of hormonal contraception, there may be little to no effect on hospitalization rates for COVID-19 positive individuals (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.44; 1 study, 123 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We included two case series because no comparative studies directly assessed thromboembolism as an outcome. In a case series of six pediatric COVID-19 positive patients with pulmonary embolism, one (older than 15 years of age) was using combined hormonal contraception. In a second case series of seven COVID-19 positive patients with cerebral venous thrombosis, one was using oral contraceptives. One comparative study and one case series reported on intubation rates, but the evidence for both is very uncertain. In the comparative study of 123 COVID-19 positive patients (N = 44 using hormonal contraception and N = 79 not using hormonal contraception), no patients in either group required intubation. In the case series of seven individuals with cerebral venous thromboembolism, one oral contraceptive user and one non-user required intubation.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There are no comparative studies assessing risk of thromboembolism in COVID-19 patients who use hormonal contraception, which was the primary objective of this review. Very little evidence exists examining the risk of increased COVID-19 disease severity for combined hormonal contraception users compared to non-users of hormonal contraception, and the evidence that does exist is of very low certainty. The odds of hospitalization for COVID-19 positive users of combined hormonal contraceptives may be slightly decreased compared with those of hormonal contraceptive non-users, but the evidence is very uncertain as this is based on one study restricted to patients with BMI under 35 kg/m[2]. There may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception use on odds of intubation or mortality among COVID-19 positive patients, and little to no effect of using any type of hormonal contraception on odds of hospitalization and intubation for COVID-19 patients. We noted no large effect for risk of increased COVID-19 disease severity among hormonal contraception users. We specifically noted gaps in pertinent data collection regarding hormonal contraception use such as formulation, hormone doses, and duration or timing of contraceptive use. Differing estrogens may have different thrombogenic potential given differing potency, so it would be important to know if a formulation contained, for example, ethinyl estradiol versus estradiol valerate. Additionally, we downgraded several studies for risk of bias because information on the timing of contraceptive use relative to COVID-19 infection and method adherence were not ascertained. No studies reported indication for hormonal contraceptive use, which is important as individuals who use hormonal management for medical conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding might have different risk profiles compared to individuals using hormones for contraception. Future studies should focus on including pertinent confounders like age, obesity, history of prior venous thromboembolism, risk factors for venous thromboembolism, and recent pregnancy.}, } @article {pmid37183915, year = {2023}, author = {Rowaiye, AB and Ogugua, AJ and Bur, D and Wood, T and Labbo, Z and Chukwu, C and Afolabi, FJ and Nwonu, EJ and Agbalalah, T}, title = {The Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes) Can Combat Cytokine Storm and Other COVID-19 Related Pathologies: A Review.}, journal = {International journal of medicinal mushrooms}, volume = {25}, number = {5}, pages = {1-15}, doi = {10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2023048109}, pmid = {37183915}, issn = {1940-4344}, mesh = {Humans ; *Reishi ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Agaricales ; }, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 is characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) facilitated by cytokine storm and other risk factors that increase susceptibility and complications leading to death. Emerging as a major global public health challenge, the disease has claimed more than 6 million lives and caused catastrophic global economic disruptions. However, there are concerns about the safety as well as the efficacy of drugs and vaccines presently used to control the pandemic, therefore necessitating intense global search for safe natural products that can effectively and safely combat it. This work reviews studies on lingzhi or reishi medicinal mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum and its properties that may potentially combat SARS-CoV-2 infection and the co-morbidities. Available evidence suggests that medicinal properties of the Ganoderma mushroom can combat the complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the co-morbidities that can aggravate the severity of the disease. Preclinical and clinical evaluation to establish dose, efficacy, and potential toxicity and possible use in the management of COVID-19 is recommended.}, } @article {pmid37183681, year = {2023}, author = {Smadi, M and Kaburis, M and Schnapper, Y and Reina, G and Molero, P and Molendijk, ML}, title = {SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and COVID-19 illness course and outcome in people with pre-existing neurodegenerative disorders: systematic review with frequentist and Bayesian meta-analyses.}, journal = {The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-14}, doi = {10.1192/bjp.2023.43}, pmid = {37183681}, issn = {1472-1465}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: People with neurodegenerative disease and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may have an elevated risk of acquiring severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and may be disproportionally affected by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) once infected.

AIMS: To review all eligible studies and quantify the strength of associations between various pre-existing neurodegenerative disorders and both SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and COVID-19 illness course and outcome.

METHOD: Pre-registered systematic review with frequentist and Bayesian meta-analyses. Systematic searches were executed in PubMed, Web of Science and preprint servers. The final search date was 9 January 2023. Odds ratios (ORs) were used as measures of effect.

RESULTS: In total, 136 primary studies (total sample size n = 97 643 494), reporting on 268 effect-size estimates, met the inclusion criteria. The odds for a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result were increased for people with pre-existing dementia (OR = 1.83, 95% CI 1.16-2.87), Alzheimer's disease (OR = 2.86, 95% CI 1.44-5.66) and Parkinson's disease (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.34-2.04). People with pre-existing dementia were more likely to experience a relatively severe COVID-19 course, once infected (OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.00-2.03). People with pre-existing dementia or Alzheimer's disease were at increased risk for COVID-19-related hospital admission (pooled OR range: 1.60-3.72). Intensive care unit admission rates were relatively low for people with dementia (OR = 0.54, 95% CI 0.40-0.74). All neurodegenerative disorders, including MCI, were at higher risk for COVID-19-related mortality (pooled OR range: 1.56-2.27).

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm that, in general, people with neurodegenerative disease and MCI are at a disproportionally high risk of contracting COVID-19 and have a poor outcome once infected.}, } @article {pmid37183186, year = {2023}, author = {Fedorowski, A and Olsén, MF and Nikesjö, F and Janson, C and Bruchfeld, J and Lerm, M and Hedman, K}, title = {Cardiorespiratory dysautonomia in post-COVID-19 condition: Manifestations, mechanisms and management.}, journal = {Journal of internal medicine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/joim.13652}, pmid = {37183186}, issn = {1365-2796}, abstract = {A significant proportion of COVID-19 patients experience debilitating symptoms for months after the acute infection. According to recent estimates, approximately one out of ten COVID-19 convalescents reports persistent health issues more than three months after initial recovery. This "post-COVID-19 condition" may include a large variety of symptoms from almost all domains and organs, and for some patients it may mean prolonged sick-leave, homestay, and strongly limited activities of daily life. In this narrative review, we focus on the symptoms and signs of post-COVID-19 condition in adults-particularly those associated with cardiovascular and respiratory systems, such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) or airway disorders-and explore the evidence for chronic autonomic dysfunction as a potential underlying mechanism. The most plausible hypotheses regarding cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the wide spectrum of observed symptoms-such as lingering viruses, persistent inflammation, impairment in oxygen sensing systems and circulating antibodies directed to blood pressure regulatory components-are discussed. In addition, an overview of currently available pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options is presented. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.}, } @article {pmid37182352, year = {2023}, author = {Adams, A and Blawatt, S and MacDonald, S and Finnick, R and Lajeunesse, J and Harrison, S and Byres, D and Schechter, MT and Oviedo-Joekes, E}, title = {Provider experiences with relaxing restrictions on take-home medications for opioid use disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative systematic review.}, journal = {The International journal on drug policy}, volume = {117}, number = {}, pages = {104058}, pmid = {37182352}, issn = {1873-4758}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Historical restrictions on take-home medications for opioid use disorder have generated considerable debate. The COVID-19 pandemic shifted the perceived risks and benefits of daily clinic attendance and led to widespread policy reform, creating an unprecedented opportunity to explore the impact of more flexible prescribing. We conducted a qualitative systematic review to synthesize the evidence on providers' experiences with relaxing restrictions on take-home doses of medications prescribed for opioid use disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: The protocol for this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022360589; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/). From Sept.-Nov. 2022, we searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Web of Science, the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, and the grey literature from 2020 onward. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they used qualitative methods to investigate providers' experiences with relaxed restrictions on take-home medications for opioid use disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic. We appraised study quality using the CASP qualitative checklist and used thematic synthesis and GRADE-CERQual to synthesize the results.

RESULTS: We retrieved 13 articles representing 11 studies. Six were conducted in the United States and most focused on changes to methadone treatment. Providers' experiences with increased flexibilities around take-homes were broadly positive, despite widespread initial concern over client safety and the potential for medication misuse. For a small number of providers, concerns about diversion were a specific manifestation of more general unease with loss of control over clients and the treatment process. Most providers appreciated increased flexibilities and described them as enabling more individualized, person-centered care.

CONCLUSION: Our findings support the continuation of flexibilities around take-homes and demonstrate that regulations and policies that reduce flexibility around take-homes conflict with person-centered approaches to care. Stronger guidance and support from professional regulatory agencies may help increase uptake of flexibilities around take-homes.}, } @article {pmid37182234, year = {2023}, author = {Pasquier, G}, title = {COVID-19-associated mucormycosis in India: Why such an outbreak?.}, journal = {Journal de mycologie medicale}, volume = {33}, number = {3}, pages = {101393}, pmid = {37182234}, issn = {1773-0449}, abstract = {An unprecedented mucormycosis outbreak occurred in India during the second COVID-19 wave in spring 2021. COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) was observed, mainly rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM), in patients with poorly controlled diabetes and treated with inappropriate doses of glucocorticoids. The aim of this mini-review was to compare the characteristics of the CAM epidemic in India with (i) mucormycosis cases before the COVID-19 pandemic and (ii) CAM in the rest of the world (particularly in France) in order to identify the reasons for this outbreak. In India, the major mucormycosis epidemiologic change during the COVID-19 pandemic was an increase in the percentage of patients treated with corticosteroids who developed CAM. Compared with the rest of the world, India reported a higher mucormycosis incidence even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, in India, patients with CAM were more likely to have diabetes mellitus and ROCM; conversely, mortality rates were lower. The reasons for such a localized epidemic in India have remained unclear, but some hypotheses can be put forward, particularly the combination of high prevalence of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and frequent indiscriminate corticosteroid utilization in a country that already had a high mucormycosis burden before the COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37182082, year = {2023}, author = {Favas, TT and Lall, N and Joshi, D and Singh, VK and Pathak, A and Chakravarty, K and Mishra, VN and Chaurasia, RN and Kumar, A}, title = {Thrombotic and Thromboembolic Complications After Vaccination Against COVID-19: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37275}, pmid = {37182082}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Thromboembolic complications after the COVID-19 vaccination have been reported from all over the world. We aimed to identify the thrombotic and thromboembolic complications that can arise after receiving various types of COVID-19 vaccines, their frequency, and distinguishing characteristics. Articles published in Medline/PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Google Scholar, EBSCO, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the CDC database, the WHO database, ClinicalTrials.gov, and servers like medRxiv.org and bioRxiv.org, as well as the websites of several reporting authorities between December 1, 2019, and July 29, 2021, were searched. Studies were included if they reported any thromboembolic complications post-COVID-19 vaccination and excluded editorials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, narrative reviews, and commentaries. Two reviewers independently extracted the data and conducted the quality assessment. Thromboembolic events and associated hemorrhagic complications after various types of COVID-19 vaccines, their frequency, and distinguishing characteristics were assessed. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (ID-CRD42021257862). There were 59 articles, enrolling 202 patients. We also studied data from two nationwide registries and surveillance. The mean age of presentation was 47 ± 15.5 (mean ± SD) years, and 71.1% of the reported cases were females. The majority of events were with the AstraZeneca vaccine and with the first dose. Of these, 74.8% were venous thromboembolic events, 12.7% were arterial thromboembolic events, and the rest were hemorrhagic complications. The most common reported event was cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (65.8%), followed by pulmonary embolism, splanchnic vein thrombosis, deep vein thrombosis, and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. The majority had thrombocytopenia, high D-dimer, and anti-PF4 antibodies. The case fatality rate was 26.5%. In our study, 26/59 of the papers were of fair quality. The data from two nationwide registries and surveillance revealed 6347 venous and arterial thromboembolic events post-COVID-19 vaccinations. COVID-19 vaccinations have been linked to thrombotic and thromboembolic complications. However, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Clinicians should be aware of these complications because they may be fatal and because prompt identification and treatment can prevent fatalities.}, } @article {pmid37181817, year = {2023}, author = {Mufamadi, MS and Ngoepe, MP and Nobela, O and Maluleke, N and Phorah, B and Methula, B and Maseko, T and Masebe, DI and Mufhandu, HT and Katata-Seru, LM}, title = {Next-Generation Vaccines: Nanovaccines in the Fight against SARS-CoV-2 Virus and beyond SARS-CoV-2.}, journal = {BioMed research international}, volume = {2023}, number = {}, pages = {4588659}, pmid = {37181817}, issn = {2314-6141}, mesh = {Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Viral Vaccines ; }, abstract = {The virus responsible for the coronavirus viral pandemic is the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants caused by distinctive mutations within the viral spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 are considered the cause for the rapid spread of the disease and make it challenging to treat SARS-CoV-2. The manufacturing of appropriate efficient vaccines and therapeutics is the only option to combat this pandemic. Nanomedicine has enabled the delivery of nucleic acids and protein-based vaccines to antigen-presenting cells to produce protective immunity against the coronavirus. Nucleic acid-based vaccines, particularly mRNA nanotechnology vaccines, are the best prevention option against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic worldwide, and they are effective against the novel coronavirus and its multiple variants. This review will report on progress made thus far with SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and beyond employing nanotechnology-based nucleic acid vaccine approaches.}, } @article {pmid37181725, year = {2023}, author = {El Arab, RA and Somerville, J and Abuadas, FH and Rubinat-Arnaldo, E and Sagbakken, M}, title = {Health and well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented migrants, and internally displaced persons under COVID-19: a scoping review.}, journal = {Frontiers in public health}, volume = {11}, number = {}, pages = {1145002}, pmid = {37181725}, issn = {2296-2565}, mesh = {Pregnancy ; Child ; Humans ; Female ; *Transients and Migrants ; *Refugees/psychology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Maternal Health Services ; Mental Health ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The objective of this scoping review was to identify what is known about the impact of COVID-19 on the physical and mental well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented migrants, and internally displaced persons. The aim was also to identify barriers influencing access to treatment or prevention.

METHODS: The search was conducted using PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. A mixed methods appraisal tool was used to assess methodological rigor. The study findings were synthesized using a thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: This review comprised 24 studies and were conducted utilizing a mixed method approach incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Two major themes were identified related to the impact of COVID-19 on the health and wellbeing of refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented migrants, and internally displaced persons and the key barriers influencing access to treatment or prevention of COVID-19. They often have barriers to accessing healthcare due to their legal status, language barriers, and limited resources. The pandemic has further strained already limited health resources, making it even more challenging for these populations to receive healthcare. This review reveals that refugees and asylum seekers in receiving facilities face a higher risk of COVID-19 infection than the general population due to their less favorable living conditions. The various health impacts stem from a lack of access to accurate information about the pandemic, misinformation, and the exacerbation of pre-existing mental health issues caused by heightened stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, fear of deportation among undocumented migrants, and overcrowding camps and detention facilities that increase exposure risk. Social distancing measures are difficult to implement in these settings, and inadequate sanitation, hygiene, and a lack of personal protective equipment further compound the problem. Moreover, the pandemic has had significant economic consequences for these populations. Many of them rely on informal or precarious employment, which has been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Job losses and reduced working hours, and limited access to social protection can lead to increased poverty, and food insecurity. Children faced specific challenges, such as disruptions to education, additionally, interruptions in support services for pregnant women. Some pregnant women have avoided seeking maternity care due to fears of contracting COVID-19, resulting in increased home births and delays in accessing healthcare services. Factors that play a role in vaccination reluctance include uncertainty of undocumented migrants' inclusion in vaccination programs, furthermore, a growing vaccine hesitancy in the population; skepticism about the safety of vaccines, inadequate knowledge/education, a variety of access barriers such as language barriers, and logistical challenges including remote locations, and inaccurate information.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights that the physical health of refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented migrants, and internally displaced persons has been significantly impacted by various barriers to healthcare access during the pandemic. These barriers include legal and administrative challenges, such as a lack of documentation. Additionally, the shift to digital tools has introduced new obstacles, not only due to language barriers or limited technical knowledge but also because of structural barriers, such as the requirement of a bank ID that is often inaccessible to these groups. Other factors contributing to limited healthcare access include financial constraints, language barriers, and discrimination. Additionally, limited access to accurate information about health services, prevention measures, and available resources may hinder them from seeking care or following public health guidelines. Misinformation and lack of trust in healthcare systems can also contribute to a reluctance to access care or vaccination programs. There is concerning evidence regarding vaccine hesitancy that needs to be addressed to reduce any future pandemic outbreak, in addition there is a need to explore the factors that play a role in vaccination reluctance among children in these populations.}, } @article {pmid37181483, year = {2023}, author = {Wu, YC and Chen, CN}, title = {Physical Therapy for Adults with Heart Failure.}, journal = {Physical therapy research}, volume = {26}, number = {1}, pages = {1-9}, pmid = {37181483}, issn = {2189-8448}, abstract = {Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome caused by structural and/or functional abnormalities that results in significant disease burdens not only to the patients and their families but also to the society. Common symptoms/signs of HF include dyspnea, fatigue, and exercise intolerance, which significantly reduce the quality of life of individuals. Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in 2019, it has been found that individuals with cardiovascular disease are more vulnerable to COVID-19-related cardiac sequelae including HF. In this article, we review the updated diagnosis, classifications, and interventional guidelines of HF. We also discuss the link between COVID-19 and HF. The latest evidence about physical therapy for patients with HF in both the stable chronic phase and acute cardiac decompensation phase is reviewed. Physical therapy for HF patients with circulatory support devices is also described.}, } @article {pmid37181347, year = {2023}, author = {Yadav, VK and Choudhary, N and Inwati, GK and Rai, A and Singh, B and Solanki, B and Paital, B and Sahoo, DK}, title = {Recent trends in the nanozeolites-based oxygen concentrators and their application in respiratory disorders.}, journal = {Frontiers in medicine}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1147373}, pmid = {37181347}, issn = {2296-858X}, abstract = {Medical-grade oxygen is the basic need for all medical complications, especially in respiratory-based discomforts. There was a drastic increase in the demand for medical-grade oxygen during the current pandemic. The non-availability of medical-grade oxygen led to several complications, including death. The oxygen concentrator was only the last hope for the patient during COVID-19 pandemic around the globe. The demands also are everlasting during other microbial respiratory infections. The yield of oxygen using conventional molecular zeolites in the traditional oxygen concentrator process is less than the yield noticed when its nano-form is used. Nanotechnology has enlightened hope for the efficient production of oxygen by such oxygen concentrators. Here in the current review work, the authors have highlighted the basic structural features of oxygen concentrators along with the current working principle. Besides, it has been tried to bridge the gap between conventional oxygen concentrators and advanced ones by using nanotechnology. Nanoparticles being usually within 100 nm in size have a high surface area to volume ratio, which makes them suitable adsorbents for oxygen. Here authors have suggested the use of nano zeolite in place of molecular zeolites in the oxygen concentrator for efficient delivery of oxygen by the oxygen concentrators.}, } @article {pmid37181292, year = {2023}, author = {Zeng, W and Song, Y and Wang, R and He, R and Wang, T}, title = {Neutrophil elastase: From mechanisms to therapeutic potential.}, journal = {Journal of pharmaceutical analysis}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {355-366}, pmid = {37181292}, issn = {2214-0883}, abstract = {Neutrophil elastase (NE), a major protease in the primary granules of neutrophils, is involved in microbicidal activity. NE is an important factor promoting inflammation, has bactericidal effects, and shortens the inflammatory process. NE also regulates tumor growth by promoting metastasis and tumor microenvironment remodeling. However, NE plays a role in killing tumors under certain conditions and promotes other diseases such as pulmonary ventilation dysfunction. Additionally, it plays a complex role in various physiological processes and mediates several diseases. Sivelestat, a specific NE inhibitor, has strong potential for clinical application, particularly in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This review discusses the pathophysiological processes associated with NE and the potential clinical applications of sivelestat.}, } @article {pmid37179397, year = {2023}, author = {Lavrentieva, A and Kaimakamis, E and Voutsas, V and Bitzani, M}, title = {An observational study on factors associated with ICU mortality in Covid-19 patients and critical review of the literature.}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {7804}, pmid = {37179397}, issn = {2045-2322}, mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Male ; Female ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Critical Illness ; Intensive Care Units ; *Sepsis ; *Acute Kidney Injury ; Retrospective Studies ; Observational Studies as Topic ; }, abstract = {The novel pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been associated with increased burden on healthcare system. Recognizing the variables that independently predict death in COVID-19 is of great importance. The study was carried out prospectively in a single ICU in northern Greece. It was based on the collection of data during clinical practice in 375 adult patients who were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between April 2020 and February 2022. All patients were intubated due to acute respiratory insufficiency and received Invasive Mechanical Ventilation. The primary outcome was ICU mortality. Secondary outcomes were 28-day mortality and independent predictors of mortality at 28 days and during ICU hospitalization. For continuous variables with normal distribution, t-test was used for means comparison between two groups and one-way ANOVA for multiple comparisons. When the distribution was not normal, comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney test. Comparisons between discrete variables were made using the x[2] test, whereas the binary logistic regression was employed for the definition of factors affecting survival inside the ICU and after 28 days. Of the total number of patients intubated due to COVID-19 during the study period, 239 (63.7%) were male. Overall, the ICU survival was 49.6%, whereas the 28-day survival reached 46.9%. The survival rates inside the ICU for the four main viral variants were 54.9%, 50.3%, 39.7% and 50% for the Alpha, Beta, Delta and Omicron variants, respectively. Logistic regressions for outcome revealed that the following parameters were independently associated with ICU survival: wave, SOFA @day1, Remdesivir use, AKI, Sepsis, Enteral Insufficiency, Duration of ICU stay and WBC. Similarly, the parameters affecting the 28-days survival were: duration of stay in ICU, SOFA @day1, WBC, Wave, AKI and Enteral Insufficiency. In this observational cohort study of critically ill COVID-19 patients we report an association between mortality and the wave sequence, SOFA score on admission, the use of Remdesivir, presence of AKI, presence of gastrointestinal failure, sepsis and WBC levels. Strengths of this study are the large number of critically ill COVID-19 patients included, and the comparison of the adjusted mortality rates between pandemic waves within a two year-study period.}, } @article {pmid37172174, year = {2023}, author = {Neururer, SB and Schweitzer, M and Hackl, WO and Tilg, B and Siegele, J and Raudaschl, P and Pfeifer, B}, title = {The Surviral Epidemiological Early Warning System Tyrol Dashboard - System, Functionality and Findings.}, journal = {Studies in health technology and informatics}, volume = {301}, number = {}, pages = {162-167}, doi = {10.3233/SHTI230033}, pmid = {37172174}, issn = {1879-8365}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; Health Policy ; Records ; Health Personnel ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dashboards provide a good retrospective view of the development of the disease. Yet, current COVID-related dashboards typically lack the capability to predict future trends. However, this is important for health policy makers and health care providers in order to adopt meaningful containment strategies.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this paper is to present the Surviral dashboard, which allows the effective monitoring of infectious disease dynamics.

METHODS: The presented dashboard comprises a wide range of information, including retrospective and prognostic data based on an agent-based simulation framework. It served as the basis for informed decision-making and planning of disease control strategies within the federal state of Tyrol.

RESULTS: By visualizing the information in an understandable format, the dashboard provided a comprehensive overview of the COVID-19 situation in Tyrol and allowed for the identification of trends and patterns.

CONCLUSION: The presented dashboard is a valuable tool for managing pandemics such as COVID-19. It provides a convenient and efficient way to monitor the spread of a disease and identify potential areas for intervention.}, } @article {pmid37171303, year = {2023}, author = {Seyoum, F}, title = {Mechanisms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 induced liver damage and alteration of some liver biomarkers: A review.}, journal = {Medicine}, volume = {102}, number = {19}, pages = {e33517}, pmid = {37171303}, issn = {1536-5964}, mesh = {Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 ; Retrospective Studies ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Liver Diseases/etiology ; Biomarkers ; }, abstract = {The most serious problem for people suffering from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is liver damage. The liver is a frequently affected organ due to the metabolizing and detoxifying functions of several endogenous and exogenous molecules. In COVID-19-affected individuals, even moderate loss of hepatic function could dramatically affect the therapeutic efficacy of antiviral drugs metabolized in the liver. The clear mechanism of hepatocellular damage from SARS-CoV-2 infection is not fully understood. The main objective of this review is to identify potential mechanisms of SARS-2 induced liver damage, treatment outcomes in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, and future direction. Electronic databases including Web of Science, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane library were used to systematically search without limitation of publication date and status. Observational, retrospective cohort, prospective case-control, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, or clinical trials were included. Liver damage in coronavirus patients is characterized by histopathological changes and abnormal elevation of some liver function tests. These abnormalities include elevation of Alanine aminotransferase, Aspartate aminotransferase, Gamma-glutamyl transferase, Alkaline phosphatase, and Serum bilirubin levels. Histopathological changes of the liver might consist of complete or partial thrombosis of the portal and sinusoidal vessels, portal tract fibrosis, and focally markedly enlarged and fibrotic hepatocytes. Understanding the fundamental molecular and immunological processes of COVID-19-related liver injury is essential for the selection of appropriate drugs and the logical development of successful treatment.}, } @article {pmid37167188, year = {2023}, author = {Podzolkov, VI and Tarzimanova, AI and Ponomareva, LA and Popova, EN and Ponomarev, AB}, title = {[Ferroptosis-associated lesion as a potential target for cardiovascular disease: A review].}, journal = {Terapevticheskii arkhiv}, volume = {94}, number = {12}, pages = {1421-1425}, doi = {10.26442/00403660.2022.12.201996}, pmid = {37167188}, issn = {0040-3660}, mesh = {Humans ; *Ferroptosis/physiology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology ; *COVID-19 ; Apoptosis ; Cell Death ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; }, abstract = {Cell death is an important feature of the development of multicellular organisms, a critical factor in the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the mechanisms that control cell death is crucial to determine its role in the development of the pathological process. However, the most well-known types of cell death cannot fully explain the pathophysiology of heart disease. Understanding how cardiomyocytes die and why their regeneration is limited is an important area of research. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death that differs from apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, and other forms of cell death in terms of morphology, metabolism, and protein expression. Ferroptotic cell death is characterized by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species resulting from lipid peroxidation and subsequent oxidative stress, which can be prevented by iron chelates (eg, deferoxamine) and small lipophilic antioxidants (eg, ferrostatin, liproхstatin). In recent years, many studies have been carried out on ferroptosis in the context of the development of atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and other diseases. In addition to cardiovascular diseases, the review also presents data on the role of ferroptosis in the development of other socially significant diseases, such as COVID-19, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. With the study of ferroptosis, it turned out that ferroptosis participates in the development of bacterial infection associated with the persistence in the host body of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The review summarizes the recent advances in the study of ferroptosis, characterizing this type of cell death as a novel therapeutic target.}, } @article {pmid37167174, year = {2022}, author = {Chuchalin, AG}, title = {[Pulmonary fibrosis in patients with COVID-19: A review].}, journal = {Terapevticheskii arkhiv}, volume = {94}, number = {11}, pages = {1333-1339}, doi = {10.26442/00403660.2022.11.201943}, pmid = {37167174}, issn = {0040-3660}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Lung/diagnostic imaging/pathology ; Dyspnea ; }, abstract = {The viral infectious disease pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has affected over 500 million people and killed over 6 million. This is the official data provided by the WHO as of the end of May 2022. Among people who have recovered from COVID-19, post-COVID syndrome is quite common. Scattered epidemiological studies on post-COVID syndrome, however, indicate its high relevance. One of the manifestations of post-COVID syndrome is the development of pulmonary fibrosis (PF). This article is devoted to the analysis of literature data on epidemiology, immunomorphology, as well as X-ray morphological and functional characteristics of PF in patients with post-COVID syndrome. Attention is drawn to the various phenotypes of the post-COVID syndrome and the incidence of PF, which, as clinical practice shows, is most common in people who have had severe COVID-19. This article discusses in detail the molecular biological and immunological mechanisms of PF development. The fibrotic process of the lung parenchyma is not an early manifestation of the disease; as a rule, radiomorphological signs of this pathological process develop after four weeks from the onset of acute manifestations of a viral infection. The characteristic signs of PF include those that indicate the process of remodulation of the lung tissue: volumetric decrease in the lungs, "cellular" degeneration of the lung parenchyma, bronchiectasis and traction bronchiolectasis. The process of remodulating the lung tissue, in the process of fibrosis, is accompanied by a violation of the lung function; a particularly sensitive test of functional disorders is a decrease in the diffusion capacity of the lung tissue. Therefore, in the process of monitoring patients with post-COVID syndrome, a dynamic study of the ventilation function of the lungs is recommended. The main clinical manifestation of PF is dyspnea that occurs with minimal exertion. Shortness of breath also reflects another important aspect of fibrous remodulation of the lung parenchyma - oxygen dissociation is disturbed, which reflects a violation of the gas exchange function of the lungs. There are no generally accepted treatments for PF in post-COVID syndrome. The literature considers such approaches as the possibility of prescribing antifibrotic therapy, hyaluronidase, and medical gases: thermal helium, nitric oxide, and atomic hydrogen. The article draws attention to the unresolved issues of post-covid PF in people who have had COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37167173, year = {2022}, author = {Maev, IV and Osadchuk, MA}, title = {[Liver disease during the pandemic of COVID-19 infection: prediction of the course and tactics of management: A review].}, journal = {Terapevticheskii arkhiv}, volume = {94}, number = {11}, pages = {1326-1332}, doi = {10.26442/00403660.2022.11.201934}, pmid = {37167173}, issn = {0040-3660}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy ; *Renal Insufficiency, Chronic ; }, abstract = {The hepatic consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection are now recognized as an important component of CoronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This aspect is most clinically relevant in patients with pre-existing chronic liver disease (CKD), who are at extremely high risk of severe COVID-19 and death. Risk factors for severe CKD, especially in people with liver cirrhosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, are the direct and indirect cytotoxic effects of coronavirus against the background of systemic inflammation, blood clotting disorders and immune dysfunction. The severe negative impact of the pandemic in the presence of CKD and the difficulties of patient relationships contribute to the progressive increase in the global burden of liver disease on the health system.}, } @article {pmid37167085, year = {2023}, author = {Sullivan, DJ and Franchini, M and Senefeld, JW and Joyner, MJ and Casadevall, A and Focosi, D}, title = {Plasma after both SARS-CoV-2 boosted vaccination and COVID-19 potently neutralizes BQ.1.1 and XBB.1.}, journal = {The Journal of general virology}, volume = {104}, number = {5}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1099/jgv.0.001854}, pmid = {37167085}, issn = {1465-2099}, mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Vaccination ; Antibodies, Monoclonal ; Antibodies, Neutralizing ; Antibodies, Viral ; }, abstract = {Recent 2022 SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants, have acquired resistance to most neutralizing anti-Spike monoclonal antibodies authorized, and the BQ.1.* sublineages are notably resistant to all authorized monoclonal antibodies. Polyclonal antibodies from individuals both vaccinated and recently recovered from Omicron COVID-19 (VaxCCP) could retain new Omicron neutralizing activity. Here we reviewed BQ.1.* virus neutralization data from 920 individual patient samples from 43 separate cohorts defined by boosted vaccinations (Vax) with or without recent Omicron COVID-19, as well as infection without vaccination (CCP) to determine level of BQ.1.* neutralizing antibodies and percent of plasma samples with neutralizing activity. More than 90 % of the plasma samples from individuals in the recently (within 6 months) boosted VaxCCP study cohorts neutralized BQ.1.1, and BF.7 with 100 % neutralization of WA-1, BA.4/5, BA.4.6 and BA.2.75. The geometric mean of the geometric mean 50 % neutralizing titres (GM (GMT50) were 314, 78 and 204 for BQ.1.1, XBB.1 and BF.7, respectively. Compared to VaxCCP, plasma sampled from COVID-19 naïve subjects who also recently (within 6 months) received at least a third vaccine dose had about half of the GM (GMT50) for all viral variants. Boosted VaxCCP characterized by either recent vaccine dose or infection event within 6 months represents a robust, variant-resilient, neutralizing antibody source against the new Omicron BQ.1.1, XBB.1 and BF.7 variants.}, } @article {pmid37166940, year = {2023}, author = {Carter, MKA and McGill, LS and Aaron, RV and Hosey, MM and Keatley, E and Sanchez Gonzalez, ML}, title = {We still cannot breathe: Applying intersectional ecological model to COVID-19 survivorship.}, journal = {Rehabilitation psychology}, volume = {68}, number = {2}, pages = {112-120}, doi = {10.1037/rep0000495}, pmid = {37166940}, issn = {1939-1544}, support = {/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; United States ; *COVID-19 ; Survivorship ; Pandemics ; Health Promotion ; *Racism/psychology ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: Individuals with historically oppressed identities, such as disabled or racialized minorities, face inequities across all societal institutions, including education, criminal justice, and healthcare. Systems of oppression (e.g., ableism, racism) lead to inequities that have ultimately contributed to disproportionate rates of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in the United States. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, increased public attention regarding police brutality toward Black people and the reinvigoration of the national Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement further highlighted the detrimental effects of oppressive systems and the urgent need to promote equity in the United States. The disproportionate number of COVID-19-related deaths and police brutality are inextricably connected, as both are products of oppression toward minoritized communities. The co-occurrence of the pandemic and BLM movement protests also creates an opportunity for critical discourse on the intersection of ableism and anti-Black racism specifically within the field of rehabilitation psychology.

RESEARCH METHOD/DESIGN: The overarching goals of this review are to apply the Intersectional Ecological Model with the addition of the chronosystem to illustrate how systems of oppression lead to health disparity in COVID-19 survivorship and to provide recommendations to promote health equity. Conclusions/Implication: As the COVID-19 pandemic shifts to an endemic and efforts to eliminate oppressive systems continue, rehabilitation psychologists have an ongoing, evolving, and shared responsibility to employ socially-responsive solutions to promote optimal functioning for patients, families, and communities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).}, } @article {pmid37130311, year = {2023}, author = {Ferguson, M and Vel, J and Phan, V and Ali, R and Mabe, L and Cherner, A and Doan, T and Manakatt, B and Jose, M and Powell, AR and McKinney, K and Serag, H and Sallam, HS}, title = {Coronavirus Disease 2019, Diabetes, and Inflammation: A Systemic Review.}, journal = {Metabolic syndrome and related disorders}, volume = {21}, number = {4}, pages = {177-187}, doi = {10.1089/met.2022.0090}, pmid = {37130311}, issn = {1557-8518}, abstract = {People with cardiometabolic diseases [namely type 2 diabetes (T2D), obesity, or metabolic syndrome] are more susceptible to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and endure more severe illness and poorer outcomes. Hyperinflammation has been suggested as a common pathway for both diseases. To examine the role of inflammatory biomarkers shared between COVID-19 and cardiometabolic diseases, we reviewed and evaluated published data using PubMed, SCOPUS, and World Health Organization COVID-19 databases for English articles from December 2019 to February 2022. Of 248 identified articles, 50 were selected and included. We found that people with diabetes or obesity have (i) increased risk of COVID-19 infection; (ii) increased risk of hospitalization (those with diabetes have a higher risk of intensive care unit admissions) and death; and (iii) heightened inflammatory and stress responses (hyperinflammation) to COVID-19, which worsen their prognosis. In addition, COVID-19-infected patients have a higher risk of developing T2D, especially if they have other comorbidities. Treatments controlling blood glucose levels and or ameliorating the inflammatory response may be valuable for improving clinical outcomes in these patient populations. In conclusion, it is critical for health care providers to clinically evaluate hyperinflammatory states to drive clinical decisions for COVID-19 patients.}, } @article {pmid37120473, year = {2023}, author = {Bondy, SC}, title = {Melatonin and Aging.}, journal = {Sub-cellular biochemistry}, volume = {103}, number = {}, pages = {291-307}, pmid = {37120473}, issn = {0306-0225}, mesh = {Antioxidants/therapeutic use ; *Melatonin/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {The health problems associated with the aging process are becoming increasingly widespread due to the increase in mean life expectancy taking place globally. While decline of many organ functions is an unavoidable concomitant of senescence, these can be delayed or moderated by a range of factors. Among these are dietary changes and weight control, taking sufficient exercise, and the utilization of various micronutrients. The utility of incurring appropriate changes in lifestyle is generally not confined to a single organ system but has a broadly positive systemic effect.Among one of the most potent means of slowing down age-related changes is the use of melatonin, a widely distributed biological indole. While melatonin is well known as a treatment for insomnia, it has a wide range of beneficial qualities many of which are relevant. This overview describes how several of the properties of melatonin are especially relevant to many of the changes associated with senescence. Changes in functioning of the immune system are particularly marked in the aged, combining diminishing effectiveness with increasing ineffective and harmful activity. Melatonin treatment appears able to moderate and partially reverse this detrimental drift toward immune incompetence.}, } @article {pmid37072082, year = {2023}, author = {Jangjou, A and Moqadas, M and Mohsenian, L and Kamyab, H and Chelliapan, S and Alshehery, S and Ali, MA and Dehbozorgi, F and Yadav, KK and Khorami, M and Zarei Jelyani, N}, title = {Awareness raising and dealing with methanol poisoning based on effective strategies.}, journal = {Environmental research}, volume = {228}, number = {}, pages = {115886}, doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2023.115886}, pmid = {37072082}, issn = {1096-0953}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Methanol/metabolism/toxicity ; Pandemics ; Iran ; *COVID-19 ; *Poisoning/therapy ; }, abstract = {Intoxication with methanol most commonly occurs as a consequence of ingesting, inhaling, or coming into contact with formulations that include methanol as a base. Clinical manifestations of methanol poisoning include suppression of the central nervous system, gastrointestinal symptoms, and decompensated metabolic acidosis, which is associated with impaired vision and either early or late blindness within 0.5-4 h after ingestion. After ingestion, methanol concentrations in the blood that are greater than 50 mg/dl should raise some concern. Ingested methanol is typically digested by alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), and it is subsequently redistributed to the body's water to attain a volume distribution that is about equivalent to 0.77 L/kg. Moreover, it is removed from the body as its natural, unchanged parent molecules. Due to the fact that methanol poisoning is relatively uncommon but frequently involves a large number of victims at the same time, this type of incident occupies a special position in the field of clinical toxicology. The beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an increase in erroneous assumptions regarding the preventative capability of methanol in comparison to viral infection. More than 1000 Iranians fell ill, and more than 300 of them passed away in March of this year after they consumed methanol in the expectation that it would protect them from a new coronavirus. The Atlanta epidemic, which involved 323 individuals and resulted in the deaths of 41, is one example of mass poisoning. Another example is the Kristiansand outbreak, which involved 70 people and resulted in the deaths of three. In 2003, the AAPCC received reports of more than one thousand pediatric exposures. Since methanol poisoning is associated with high mortality rates, it is vital that the condition be addressed seriously and managed as quickly as feasible. The objective of this review was to raise awareness about the mechanism and metabolism of methanol toxicity, the introduction of therapeutic interventions such as gastrointestinal decontamination and methanol metabolism inhibition, the correction of metabolic disturbances, and the establishment of novel diagnostic/screening nanoparticle-based strategies for methanol poisoning such as the discovery of ADH inhibitors as well as the detection of the adulteration of alcoholic drinks by nanoparticles in order to prevent methanol poisoning. In conclusion, increasing warnings and knowledge about clinical manifestations, medical interventions, and novel strategies for methanol poisoning probably results in a decrease in the death load.}, } @article {pmid37042341, year = {2023}, author = {McIntyre, RS and Greenleaf, W and Bulaj, G and Taylor, ST and Mitsi, G and Saliu, D and Czysz, A and Silvesti, G and Garcia, M and Jain, R}, title = {Digital health technologies and major depressive disorder.}, journal = {CNS spectrums}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-12}, doi = {10.1017/S1092852923002225}, pmid = {37042341}, issn = {1092-8529}, abstract = {There is an urgent need to improve the clinical management of major depressive disorder (MDD), which has become increasingly prevalent over the past two decades. Several gaps and challenges in the awareness, detection, treatment, and monitoring of MDD remain to be addressed. Digital health technologies have demonstrated utility in relation to various health conditions, including MDD. Factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated the development of telemedicine, mobile medical apps, and virtual reality apps and have continued to introduce new possibilities across mental health care. Growing access to and acceptance of digital health technologies present opportunities to expand the scope of care and to close gaps in the management of MDD. Digital health technology is rapidly evolving the options for nonclinical support and clinical care for patients with MDD. Iterative efforts to validate and optimize such digital health technologies, including digital therapeutics and digital biomarkers, continue to improve access to and quality of personalized detection, treatment, and monitoring of MDD. The aim of this review is to highlight the existing gaps and challenges in depression management and discuss the current and future landscape of digital health technology as it applies to the challenges faced by patients with MDD and their healthcare providers.}, } @article {pmid37018895, year = {2023}, author = {Choi, PM and Lillemoe, KD and Tseng, JF and Mammen, JMV and Nelles, ME and Dossett, LA and Funk, LM}, title = {Emerging From the Pandemic: How Has Academic Surgery Changed?.}, journal = {The Journal of surgical research}, volume = {288}, number = {}, pages = {188-192}, doi = {10.1016/j.jss.2023.02.045}, pmid = {37018895}, issn = {1095-8673}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Surgeons ; Hospital Departments ; }, abstract = {Academic surgery has changed along with the rest of the world in response to the COVID pandemic. With increasing rates of vaccination against COVID over the past 2 y, we have slowly but steadily made progress toward controlling the spread of the virus. Surgeons, academic surgery departments, health systems, and trainees are all attempting to establish a new normal in various domains-clinical, research, teaching, and in their personal lives. How has the pandemic changed these areas? At the 2022 Academic Surgical Congress Hot Topics session, we attempted to address these issues.}, } @article {pmid36935325, year = {2023}, author = {Watson, KE and Schindel, TJ and Chan, JCH and Tsuyuki, RT and Al Hamarneh, YN}, title = {A photovoice study on community pharmacists' roles and lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Research in social & administrative pharmacy : RSAP}, volume = {19}, number = {6}, pages = {944-955}, pmid = {36935325}, issn = {1934-8150}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pharmacists ; Pandemics ; Patient Care ; Alberta ; Professional Role ; *Community Pharmacy Services ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Community pharmacists were the face of the health response to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Their pivotal role during the pandemic has been widely recognized, as they adapted to continue to provide a higher level of care to their patients.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of frontline pharmacists' lived experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on their roles.

METHODS: Photovoice, a visual research method that uses participant-generated photographs to articulate their experiences, was used with semi-structured interviews to explore pharmacists' lived experiences. Frontline community pharmacists who provided direct patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Alberta, Canada were recruited. Participants were asked to provide 3-5 photos that reflected on how they see themselves as a pharmacist and/or represents what they do as a pharmacist. Data analysis incorporated content, thematic and visual analysis and was facilitated using NVivo software. A published conceptual framework model was used as the foundation of the analysis with care taken to include new concepts. Ethics approval was obtained from the University of Alberta health research ethics board.

RESULTS: Interviews were conducted with 21 participants and they 71 photos. This study advanced the conceptual framework model presented in a scoping review, of what was made visible (pharmacists' information, public health, and medication management roles) and what was invisible but made visible by the pandemic (pharmacists' leadership roles). It was revealed through the reflective nature of this study the important leadership role pharmacists have in their communities.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted the work of community pharmacists responding to the COVID-19 pandemic through their information, public health, medication management, and leadership roles. Their experiences also made visible the cost their work had on them as they did more to adapt and continually respond as the pandemic evolved. Pharmacists recognized their role as leaders in their practice and communities.}, } @article {pmid36934916, year = {2023}, author = {Vo, TPT and Ngo, HH and Guo, W and Turney, C and Liu, Y and Nguyen, DD and Bui, XT and Varjani, S}, title = {Influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on climate change summit negotiations from the climate governance perspective.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {878}, number = {}, pages = {162936}, pmid = {36934916}, issn = {1879-1026}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Climate Change ; Negotiating ; Pandemics ; Carbon ; }, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions to the world since 2020, with over 647 million confirmed cases and 6.7 million reported deaths as of January 2023. Despite its far-reaching impact, the effects of COVID-19 on the progress of global climate change negotiations have yet to be thoroughly evaluated. This discussion paper conducts an examination of COVID-19's impact on climate change actions at global, national, and local levels through a comprehensive review of existing literature. This analysis reveals that the pandemic has resulted in delays in implementing climate policies and altered priorities from climate action to the pandemic response. Despite these setbacks, the pandemic has also presented opportunities for accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. The interplay between these outcomes and the different levels of governance will play a crucial role in determining the success or failure of future climate change negotiations.}, } @article {pmid36928222, year = {2023}, author = {Asakawa, T and Cai, Q and Shen, J and Zhang, Y and Li, Y and Chen, P and Luo, W and Zhang, J and Zhou, J and Zeng, H and Weng, R and Hu, F and Feng, H and Chen, J and Huang, J and Zhang, X and Zhao, Y and Fang, L and Yang, R and Huang, J and Wang, F and Liu, Y and Lu, H}, title = {Sequelae of long COVID, known and unknown: A review of updated information.}, journal = {Bioscience trends}, volume = {17}, number = {2}, pages = {85-116}, doi = {10.5582/bst.2023.01039}, pmid = {36928222}, issn = {1881-7823}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Pandemics ; Public Health ; }, abstract = {Over three years have passed since the COVID-19 pandemic started. The dangerousness and impact of COVID-19 should definitely not be ignored or underestimated. Other than the symptoms of acute infection, the long-term symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, which are referred to here as "sequelae of long COVID (LC)", are also a conspicuous global public health concern. Although such sequelae were well-documented, the understanding of and insights regarding LC-related sequelae remain inadequate due to the limitations of previous studies (the follow-up, methodological flaws, heterogeneity among studies, etc.). Notably, robust evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment of certain LC sequelae remain insufficient and has been a stumbling block to better management of these patients. This awkward situation motivated us to conduct this review. Here, we comprehensively reviewed the updated information, particularly focusing on clinical issues. We attempt to provide the latest information regarding LC-related sequelae by systematically reviewing the involvement of main organ systems. We also propose paths for future exploration based on available knowledge and the authors' clinical experience. We believe that these take-home messages will be helpful to gain insights into LC and ultimately benefit clinical practice in treating LC-related sequelae.}, } @article {pmid36912961, year = {2023}, author = {Paolin, C and Zanetto, L and Frison, S and Boscolo Mela, F and Tessari, A and Amigoni, A and Daverio, M and Bonardi, CM}, title = {Apneas requiring respiratory support in young infants with COVID-19: a case series and literature review.}, journal = {European journal of pediatrics}, volume = {182}, number = {5}, pages = {2089-2094}, pmid = {36912961}, issn = {1432-1076}, mesh = {Child ; Infant ; Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/therapy ; Apnea/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; Hospitalization ; }, abstract = {The objective of this study is to describe the clinical features of young infants with apneas as a clinical sign of COVID-19. We reported the cases of 4 infants who needed respiratory support in our PICU for a severe course of COVID-19 complicated with recurrent apneas. Moreover, we conducted a review of the literature about COVID-19 and apneas in infants ≤ 2 months of corrected age. A total of 17 young infants were included. Overall, in most of the cases (88%), apnea was an initial symptom of COVID-19, and in two cases, it recurred after 3-4 weeks. Regarding neurological workup, most children underwent a cranial ultrasound, while a minority underwent electroencephalography registration, neuroimaging, and lumbar punctures. One child showed signs of encephalopathy on electroencephalogram, with further neurological workup resulting normal. SARS-CoV-2 was never found in the cerebrospinal fluid. Ten children required intensive care unit admission, with five of them needing intubation and three non-invasive ventilation. A less invasive respiratory support was sufficient for the remaining children. Eight children were treated with caffeine. All patients had a complete recovery. Conclusion: Young infants with recurrent apneas during COVID-19 usually need respiratory support and undergo a wide clinical work-up. They usually show complete recovery even when admitted to the intensive care unit. Further studies are needed to better define diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for these patients. What is Known: • Although the course of COVID-19 in infants is usually mild, some of them may develop a more severe disease needing intensive care support. Apneas may be a clinical sign in COVID-19. What is New: • Infants with apneas during COVID-19 may require intensive care support, but they usually show a benign course of the disease and full recovery.}, } @article {pmid36781562, year = {2023}, author = {Kim, S and Seok, HY}, title = {Evaluation of the safety profile of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD.}, journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology}, volume = {44}, number = {6}, pages = {1841-1848}, pmid = {36781562}, issn = {1590-3478}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Neuromyelitis Optica/drug therapy ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy ; *Myelitis ; Aquaporin 4 ; Autoantibodies ; Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Vaccination against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is recommended for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). However, vaccine safety in these patients taking immunotherapeutic agents is unclear as they were not included in the vaccine trials.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD.

METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD patients at the Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital. Information regarding vaccination schedules and adverse events was collected.

RESULTS: A total of 56 patients (19, 22, and 15 patients with MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD, respectively) with a median age of 48.18 ± 15.72 years (range, 16-81 years) were included. Of them, 42 (75.0%) were female. In total, 76.8% (43/56) of all patients were vaccinated, and the vaccination rate was the highest for NMOSD patients (81.8%) and the lowest for MS patients (68.4%). All vaccinated patients were administered mRNA vaccines at least once in single or multiple vaccination doses. Only 3 of 43 (7.0%) vaccinated patients experienced clinical relapse following vaccination. Facial sensory changes with a brainstem lesion developed in an MS patient taking dimethyl fumarate, while myelitis occurred in a MOGAD patient receiving azathioprine maintenance therapy. The first episode of optic neuritis occurred in a patient who was later diagnosed with MOGAD.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no serious adverse events associated with COVID-19 vaccines in patients with MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD.}, } @article {pmid36631339, year = {2023}, author = {Borgi, A and Louati, A and Miraoui, A and Lahmar, L and Ayari, A and Hajji, A and Bouziri, A and Menif, K and Smaoui, H and Jaballah, NB}, title = {Critically ill infants with SARS-COV-2 delta variant infection.}, journal = {Pediatrics and neonatology}, volume = {64}, number = {3}, pages = {335-340}, pmid = {36631339}, issn = {2212-1692}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; Child ; Infant ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 ; Critical Illness ; Retrospective Studies ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/diagnosis ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 is described to cause mild to moderate symptoms in children. To date, clinical data and symptoms of the Delta variant in pediatric patients are lacking.

AIM: To describe clinical characteristics and outcomes of infants admitted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) during the period of Delta variant predominance.

METHODS: We performed a retrospective study, between June 23, 2021 and August 16, 2021. We included children aged under 15 years, admitted to PICU with severe and critical form of SARS-CoV-2 infection as confirmed by RT-PCR. We reviewed medical records for all patients.

RESULTS: During the study period, 20 infants were included. The median age was 47 days (IQR: 26.5-77). The sex ratio was 0.8 (9 males). No underlying medical conditions were noted. Parents were not vaccinated. Respiratory involvement was the main feature to be observed in our cohort. Eleven patients had pediatric acute respiratory distress (PARDS) with a median oxygen saturation index (OSI) of 9 (IQR: 7-11). PARDS was mild in 4 cases, moderate in 5 cases and severe in 2 cases. Hemodynamic instability was observed in 4 cases. The main radiological finding was ground glass opacities in 11 cases. Seventeen patients were mechanically ventilated and 3 of them were escalated to high-frequency oscillatory ventilation. The median duration of mechanical ventilation was 6 days (IQR 2.5-12.5). The remaining patients were managed with high flow nasal cannula. Four patients died.

CONCLUSION: We report herein a case series of very young infants, with no comorbidities, and with a life-threatening illness due to SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant.}, } @article {pmid36453754, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, Q and Wei, Y and Zhang, Y and Liu, Y}, title = {Evaluating the Safe-Haven Abilities of Bitcoin and Gold for Crude Oil Market: Evidence During the COVID-19 Pandemic.}, journal = {Evaluation review}, volume = {47}, number = {3}, pages = {391-432}, pmid = {36453754}, issn = {1552-3926}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Administrative Personnel ; Gold ; *Petroleum ; }, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic poses a serious threat to investors in the crude oil market. Furthermore, investors have an increasing need to find a safe haven in their investment portfolios when facing unprecedented risks in crude oil markets during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a review of the literature, there are contradictory findings on which investment is the safer haven for the oil market. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate whether bitcoin is a safer haven for the crude oil market than the commonly used gold during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three spillover measurements based on the time, and frequency domains, and a network framework are employed to quantify the return spillover effects among bitcoin, gold and three major crude oil futures markets. We divide the sample into two periods, pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19. The results show that bitcoin has a weak safe-haven effect on the crude oil market only over a short period, while gold maintains a good safe-haven ability for crude oil futures across various time horizons (frequencies), both before and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings of this study have important implications for policy-makers, crude oil producers and global investors. In particularly, investors cannot ignore the importance of bitcoin and gold in selecting more profitable portfolio policies when searching for safe-haven assets.}, } @article {pmid36448702, year = {2023}, author = {Siu, M and Tashjian, DB and Fernandez, GL and Isotti, J and Seymour, NE}, title = {Routine Assessment of Surgical Resident Wellness-Related Concerns During Biannual Review.}, journal = {Journal of the American College of Surgeons}, volume = {236}, number = {6}, pages = {1148-1154}, doi = {10.1097/XCS.0000000000000491}, pmid = {36448702}, issn = {1879-1190}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Internship and Residency ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Educational Status ; Pandemics ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Surgery residency confers stress burdens on trainees. To monitor and mitigate areas of concerns, our education team implemented a 6-item biannual survey querying potential stressors. We reviewed the initial 5-year experience to assess for trends and improve efforts in maintaining resident well-being.

STUDY DESIGN: Surgery residents from all postgraduate years were asked to complete a survey of common concerns, prioritizing them in order of importance. The items to be ranked were: needs of family/friends; nonwork time for study; financial concerns; personal well-being needs; concerns for clinical performance; and administrative demands. Changes in ranking were trended across 10 review periods. Results were analyzed using a Kruskal-Wallis test.

RESULTS: A completion rate of 96.5% was rendered from the completion of 333 surveys. Rankings changed significantly for nonwork time for study (p = 0.04), personal well-being needs (p = 0.03) and concerns for clinical performance (p = 0.004). Nonwork time for study and concerns on clinical performance were consistently ranked as top two stressors over study period, except for spring 2020. Personal well-being needs ranked highest in spring 2020; 41% of residents placed this as top 2 rankings. A decrease in concerns for clinical performance was observed in spring 2020, corresponding to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emergency declaration.

CONCLUSIONS: Surgery residents generally prioritized time for study and concerns for assessment of clinical performance as highest areas of concern. With the occurrence of a pandemic, increased prioritization of personal well-being was observed. Used routinely with biannual reviews, the survey was able to identify plausible changes in resident concerns. Determination of levels of actual stress and actual association with the pandemic requires additional study.}, } @article {pmid36420879, year = {2023}, author = {Chong Guan, N and Weng Hou, S and Abousheishaa, AA and Sue Yin, L and Bin Sulaiman, AR and Chee Khin, K}, title = {Controversies Around COVID-19 Vaccines and Antidepressants: Scope and Perspective in Malaysia.}, journal = {Current drug research reviews}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, pages = {159-169}, doi = {10.2174/2589977515666221123093522}, pmid = {36420879}, issn = {2589-9783}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Malaysia ; Pandemics ; Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Cytokines ; }, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Individuals with severe mental illness are prone to severe COVID-19 infection with increased morbidity and mortality. Psychiatric patients are often concerned about the potential interactions between the newly approved COVID-19 vaccines in Malaysia and psychotropic drugs like antidepressants. To date, such data are unavailable.

OBJECTIVES: This review aims to clear the polemics of COVID-19 vaccine-antidepressants interaction in these 3 aspects: (1) cytokines and cytochrome P450 pathway, (2) blood-brain barrier (BBB) involvement and (3) and its interaction with polyethylene glycol (PEG), the potential allergenic culprit following COVID-19 vaccination.

METHODS: A scoping approach was employed to search for peer-reviewed journal articles across four healthcare and scientific databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL)).

RESULTS: Antidepressants metabolism often involves the CYP450 enzymes. Vaccine-antidepressants interactions are probable, likely to be triggered by interactions of CYP450 enzymes and inflammatory cytokines, resulting in diminished drug metabolism and chemical detoxification. Aside, PEG, the excipient in mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines and antidepressants, has been reported as an anaphylaxis causative allergen. However, whether it leads to synergistic, potentiation or antagonistic effects when used in combination remains to be elucidated.

CONCLUSION: Psychotropic medications, including antidepressants, showed potentially relevant safety risks for COVID-19 patients. These vulnerable patient group must be prioritized for early access to safe and efficacious COVID-19 vaccines, as vaccination remains the most important public health intervention to tackle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid36221875, year = {2023}, author = {Dos Santos Nascimento, IJ and de Moura, RO}, title = {Would the Development of a Multitarget Inhibitor of 3CL[pro] and TMPRSS2 be Promising in the Fight Against SARS-CoV-2?.}, journal = {Medicinal chemistry (Shariqah (United Arab Emirates))}, volume = {19}, number = {5}, pages = {405-412}, doi = {10.2174/1573406418666221011093439}, pmid = {36221875}, issn = {1875-6638}, mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 ; RNA, Viral ; Drug Discovery ; Serine Endopeptidases/pharmacology ; }, abstract = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), responsible for generating COVID-19, has spread worldwide and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020, being responsible for various damages to public health, social life, and the economy of countries. Its high infectivity and mutation rates have stimulated researchers and pharmaceutical companies to search for new therapies against this disease. These efforts resulted in several vaccines and the identification of Molnupiravir as an oral treatment for this disease. However, identifying new alternatives and critical information is necessary to fight against this devastating agent. The findings in recent years regarding the structure and biochemistry of SARS-CoV2 are remarkable. In anti-CoV drug discovery, various targets, such as structural, non-structural, and hostrelated proteins are explored. In fact, 3CL[pro] is the most used among non-structural proteins since this protease cleaves peptide sequences after the glutamine residue, and no human protease has this function. This makes this macromolecule an excellent drug target for discovering new compounds. Another promising target is the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). Recent studies point to TMPRSS2 as one of the main targets responsible for viral entry related to the cleavage of the S protein. Similar to cathepsins, TMPRSS2 is also responsible for cleaving the spike protein SARS-CoV2, which binds to the ACE2 receptor. Thus, TMPRSS2 is one of the targets that may represent new alternatives in treating SARS-CoV2. In this context, would discovering a multitarget inhibitor be the new strategy in searching for drugs against SARS-CoV2? For many years, new drug discovery was based on the "one drug, one target" premise, where the biological action is related to interactions with only one biological target. However, this paradigm has been overcome as new evidence of multiple mechanisms of action for a single drug. Finally, this review will present a perspective on drug design based on a multitarget strategy against 3CL[pro] and TMPRSS2. We hope to provide new horizons for researchers worldwide searching for more effective drugs against this devastating agent.}, } @article {pmid35578879, year = {2023}, author = {Atmakuri, S and Nene, S and Khatri, D and Singh, SB and Sinha, VR and Srivastava, S}, title = {Forging Ahead the Repositioning of Multitargeted Drug Ivermectin.}, journal = {Current drug delivery}, volume = {20}, number = {8}, pages = {1049-1066}, doi = {10.2174/1567201819666220516163242}, pmid = {35578879}, issn = {1875-5704}, mesh = {Humans ; Ivermectin/therapeutic use ; Drug Repositioning ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 ; *Onchocerciasis/drug therapy ; }, abstract = {With the advent of ivermectin, tremendous improvement in public health has been observed, especially in the treatment of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis that created chaos mostly in rural, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin American countries. The discovery of ivermectin became a boon to millions of people that had suffered in the pandemic and still holds its pharmacological potential. Ivermectin continued to surprise scientists because of its notable role in the treatment of various other tropical diseases (Chagas, leishmaniasis, worm infections, etc.) and is viewed as the safest drug with the least toxic effects. The current review highlights its role in unexplored avenues towards forging ahead of the repositioning of this multitargeted drug in cancer, viral (the evaluation of the efficacy of ivermectin against SARS-Cov-2 is under investigation) and bacterial infection and malaria. This article also provides a glimpse of regulatory considerations of drug repurposing and current formulation strategies. Due to its broad-spectrum activity, multitargeted nature and promising efforts are put towards the repurposing of this drug throughout the field of medicine. This single drug originated from a microbe, changed the face of global health by proving its unmatched success and progressive efforts continue in maintaining its bequestnin the management of global health by decreasing the burden of various diseases worldwide.}, } @article {pmid37171567, year = {2022}, author = {Brambilla, A and Brusamolin, E and Johnson, AA and Scullica, F and Capolongo, S}, title = {Lessons from the first wave of COVID-19 in Italy: A collection of design strategies to face pandemic situations in healthcare facilities.}, journal = {American journal of disaster medicine}, volume = {17}, number = {3}, pages = {227-244}, doi = {10.5055/ajdm.2022.0437}, pmid = {37171567}, issn = {1932-149X}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Delivery of Health Care ; Hospitals ; Italy/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aims to provide metadesign indications for the improvement of healthcare facilities, emphasizing the role of spatial design in the management of epidemic health emergencies.

STUDY DESIGN: A parallel mixed-method study including literature reviews, survey creation, and survey distribution was performed.

METHODS: Data were collected between August and October 2020 capturing information related to the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing a review of existing literature, a comparison of existing hospital planning guidelines and assessment tools, and distribution of a survey to analyze design changes within selected Italian hospitals.

RESULTS: Among the changes identified, the most frequently identified included the conversion of space into intensive care units, space expansion, and the usage of wayfinding strategies for the reduction of cross-contamination risks. There was limited attention given to solutions with a human-centered approach, and those that addressed physical and psycho-logical well-being of all users, including healthcare staff. The solutions were collected and systematized into a list of metadesign guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS: The resulting indications represent a starting point for developing design solutions to aid healthcare facilities in facing future epidemics.}, } @article {pmid34396820, year = {2023}, author = {He, J}, title = {A totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD) abandoned for 5 years is re-accessed normally: A case report and literature review.}, journal = {The journal of vascular access}, volume = {24}, number = {3}, pages = {502-506}, doi = {10.1177/11297298211039656}, pmid = {34396820}, issn = {1724-6032}, mesh = {Male ; Humans ; Aged ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; Catheters, Indwelling/adverse effects ; Time Factors ; *Vascular Access Devices/adverse effects ; *Catheterization, Central Venous/adverse effects ; }, abstract = {Regular flushing and locking of totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) is recommended to maintain their patency when not in use. In this case report, a 73-year-old male patient received radical resection for rectal carcinoma in January 2010. A TIVAD was implanted in 2014 and a total of 12 rounds of chemotherapy of FOLFIRI was completed in 2015. During the period from 2015 to 2020, the patient never used or conducted the monthly infusion port flushing because of the inconvenience, the COVID-19 pandemic, and so on. On 18th April 2020, the patient was admitted to the radiotherapy department of Yiwu Central Hospital. The nurse evaluated the TIVAD upon admission, finding that the skin around the reservoir was normal without any sign of infection as erythema or induration of the skin overlying the implantable port but there was intraluminal occlusion of the devices. In order to re-access the catheter, discussion of a MDT was performed and several days of unremitting efforts were tried. Gratifyingly, the patient's port was re-accessed successfully without any adverse reactions. This is a rare infusion port that has not been used and maintained for 5 years. For the port that has not been used and maintained for a long time up to 5 years, the medical staff should not give up easily. During the COVID-19 pandemic, prolonging the flushing interval of TIVADs can be an optimal clinical strategy without negative outcomes.}, } @article {pmid37180701, year = {2023}, author = {Makarem, A and Zareef, R and Abourjeili, J and Nassar, JE and Bitar, F and Arabi, M}, title = {Low molecular weight heparin in COVID-19: benefits and concerns.}, journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1159363}, doi = {10.3389/fphar.2023.1159363}, pmid = {37180701}, issn = {1663-9812}, abstract = {Since its emergence, the COVID-19 pandemic had a dramatic impact on the public health worldwide and it scarred the medical, economical, and social determinants of health. Even after the significant vaccination advances, the disease of SARS-CoV-2 can manifest in severe presentations with life-threatening thromboembolic and multi-organ complications leading to notable morbidity and mortality. Clinicians and researchers are on continuous pursuit of investigating different approaches in the attempt to prevent the infection and minimize its severity. Although the COVID-19's pathophysiology remains relatively unclear, it is well established now that coagulopathy, systemic thrombotic propensity, and a robust immunoinflammatory response are some of the most important determinants of its morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, research efforts have focused on addressing the inflammatory and hematological cascades using available agents to avoid thromboembolic events. Several studies and investigators have emphasized the importance of Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), namely, Lovenox, in addressing these sequelae of the COVID-19 disease, either prophylactically or therapeutically. This review explores the benefits and concerns of employing LMWH, a widely used anticoagulant, in COVID-19 disease. It delves into Enoxaparin as a molecule, along with its pharmacology, mechanism of action, and clinical uses. It also reviews the current high-quality clinical evidence that highlight the role of enoxaparin in SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, } @article {pmid37180609, year = {2023}, author = {Azad, I and Khan, T and Ahmad, N and Khan, AR and Akhter, Y}, title = {Updates on drug designing approach through computational strategies: a review.}, journal = {Future science OA}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {FSO862}, doi = {10.2144/fsoa-2022-0085}, pmid = {37180609}, issn = {2056-5623}, abstract = {The drug discovery and development (DDD) process in pursuit of novel drug candidates is a challenging procedure requiring lots of time and resources. Therefore, computer-aided drug design (CADD) methodologies are used extensively to promote proficiency in drug development in a systematic and time-effective manner. The point in reference is SARS-CoV-2 which has emerged as a global pandemic. In the absence of any confirmed drug moiety to treat the infection, the science fraternity adopted hit and trial methods to come up with a lead drug compound. This article is an overview of the virtual methodologies, which assist in finding novel hits and help in the progression of drug development in a short period with a specific medicinal solution.}, } @article {pmid37180567, year = {2023}, author = {Adekpedjou, R and Léon, P and Dewidar, O and Al-Zubaidi, A and Jbilou, J and Kaczorowski, J and Muscedere, J and Hirdes, J and Heckman, G and Girard, M and Hébert, PC}, title = {Effectiveness of interventions to address different types of vulnerabilities in community-dwelling older adults: An umbrella review: A systematic review.}, journal = {Campbell systematic reviews}, volume = {19}, number = {2}, pages = {e1323}, doi = {10.1002/cl2.1323}, pmid = {37180567}, issn = {1891-1803}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Frailty, social isolation, loneliness, and poverty may render older adults vulnerable to social or health stressors. It is imperative to identify effective interventions to address them especially in the context of COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To identify effective community-based interventions to address frailty, social isolation, loneliness, and poverty among community-dwelling older adults.

DESIGN: Umbrella review.

DATA SOURCE: We systematically searched PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, EBM-Reviews, CINAHL via EBSCO, and APA PsycInfo via Ovid from January 2009 to December 2022.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included systematic reviews or quantitative reviews of non-pharmacologic interventions targeting community-dwelling older adults.

Two review authors independently screened the titles and abstracts, performed data extraction and appraised the methodological quality of the reviews. We used a narrative synthesis approach to summarize and interpret the findings. We assessed the methodological quality of the studies using AMSTAR 2.0 tool.

RESULTS: We identified 27 reviews incorporating 372 unique primary studies that met our inclusion criteria. Ten of the reviews included studies conducted in low-middle-income countries. Twelve reviews (46%, 12/26) included interventions that addressed frailty. Seventeen reviews (65%, 17/26) included interventions that addressed either social isolation or loneliness. Eighteen reviews included studies with single component interventions, while 23 reviews included studies with multi-component interventions. Interventions including protein supplementation combined with physical activity may improve outcomes including frailty status, grip strength, and body weight. Physical activity alone or in combination with diet may prevent frailty. Additionally, physical activity may improve social functioning and interventions using digital technologies may decrease social isolation and loneliness. We did not find any review of interventions addressing poverty among older adults. We also noted that few reviews addressed multiple vulnerabilities within the same study, specifically addressed vulnerability among ethnic and sexual minority groups, or examined interventions that engaged communities and adapted programs to local needs.

CONCLUSION: Evidence from reviews support diets, physical activity, and digital technologies to improve frailty, social isolation or loneliness. However, interventions examined were primarily conducted under optimal conditions. There is a need for further interventions in community settings and conducted under real world settings in older adults living with multiple vulnerabilities.}, } @article {pmid37180362, year = {2023}, author = {Gardner, JG and Feld, LD}, title = {The impact of COVID-19 on endoscopy and cancer screening: a focus on access and equity.}, journal = {Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {17562848231173334}, doi = {10.1177/17562848231173334}, pmid = {37180362}, issn = {1756-283X}, abstract = {The SARS-CoV2 pandemic has had a profound and lasting impact on healthcare delivery. Gastrointestinal endoscopy services were limited during the early phases of the pandemic, which has resulted in ongoing procedural backlog. Procedural delays have had continuing effects including delayed colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnoses and exacerbation of existing disparities in the CRC-screening and treatment pathways. In this review, we outline these effects as well as the variety of strategies that have been proposed to eliminate this backlog, including increased endoscopy hours, re-triaging of referrals, and alternative CRC-screening strategies.}, } @article {pmid37180361, year = {2023}, author = {Fatima, I and Duong, N}, title = {The impact of COVID-19 on liver transplantation: challenges and perspectives.}, journal = {Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {17562848231171452}, doi = {10.1177/17562848231171452}, pmid = {37180361}, issn = {1756-283X}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presented unique challenges to patients with decompensated cirrhosis awaiting transplant, with respect to accessing medical facilities for routine clinic visits, imaging, laboratory workup, or endoscopies. There was a delay in organ procurement that led to a decrease in the number of liver transplants (LTs) and an increase in the morality of waitlisted patients at the beginning of the pandemic. LT numbers later equalized to pre-pandemic numbers due to combined efforts and adaptability of transplant centers as well as dynamic guidelines. Due to being immunosuppressed, the demographics of LT patients were at an increased risk of infection. Although there is a higher rate of mortality and morbidity in patients with chronic liver disease, LT itself is not a risk factor for mortality in COVID-19. There was no difference in overall mortality in LT patients compared to non-LT patients, and mortality risk factors were the same: age, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. The most common causes of death were respiratory complications. Liver-related deaths were reported in 1.6% of patients. The optimal timing of liver transplantation post-infection depends on various factors, such as the severity of liver injury, the presence of comorbidities, and the progression of the underlying liver disease. There is not enough data available on COVID-19 cholangiopathy and the number of cases that will be seen in the future that will require LT. There are some concerns of lower immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccines in LT patients but available evidence suggests that the vaccines are safe and well-tolerated.}, } @article {pmid37180247, year = {2023}, author = {Stilpeanu, RI and Stercu, AM and Stancu, AL and Tanca, A and Bucur, O}, title = {Monkeypox: a global health emergency.}, journal = {Frontiers in microbiology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1094794}, doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2023.1094794}, pmid = {37180247}, issn = {1664-302X}, abstract = {Over the past 2 years, the world has faced the impactful Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with a visible shift in economy, medicine, and beyond. As of recent times, the emergence of the monkeypox (mpox) virus infections and the growing number of infected cases have raised panic and fear among people, not only due to its resemblance to the now eradicated smallpox virus, but also because another potential pandemic could have catastrophic consequences, globally. However, studies of the smallpox virus performed in the past and wisdom gained from the COVID-19 pandemic are the two most helpful tools for humanity that can prevent major outbreaks of the mpox virus, thus warding off another pandemic. Because smallpox and mpox are part of the same virus genus, the Orthopoxvirus genus, the structure and pathogenesis, as well as the transmission of both these two viruses are highly similar. Because of these similarities, antivirals and vaccines approved and licensed in the past for the smallpox virus are effective and could successfully treat and prevent an mpox virus infection. This review discusses the main components that outline this current global health issue raised by the mpox virus, by presenting it as a whole, and integrating aspects such as its structure, pathogenesis, clinical aspects, prevention, and treatment options, and how this ongoing phenomenon is being globally approached.}, } @article {pmid37180118, year = {2023}, author = {Løken, RØ and Fevang, B}, title = {Cellular immunity in COVID-19 and other infections in Common variable immunodeficiency.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1124279}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1124279}, pmid = {37180118}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {COVID-19 has shed light on the role of cellular immunity in the absence of humoral response in different patient groups. Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is characterized by impaired humoral immunity but also an underlying T-cell dysregulation. The impact of T-cell dysregulation on cellular immunity in CVID is not clear, and this review summarizes available literature on cellular immunity in CVID with a particular focus on COVID-19. Overall mortality of COVID-19 in CVID is difficult to assess, but seems not significantly elevated, and risk factors for severe disease mirrors that of the general population, including lymphopenia. Most CVID patients have a significant T-cell response to COVID-19 disease with possible cross-reactivity to endemic coronaviruses. Several studies find a significant but impaired cellular response to basal COVID-19 mRNA vaccination that is independent of an antibody response. CVID patients with infection only have better cellular responses to vaccine in one study, but there is no clear association to T-cell dysregulation. Cellular response wane over time but responds to a third booster dose of vaccine. Opportunistic infection as a sign of impaired cellular immunity in CVID is rare but is related to the definition of the disease. CVID patients have a cellular response to influenza vaccine that in most studies is comparable to healthy controls, and annual vaccination against seasonal influenza should be recommended. More research is required to clarify the effect of vaccines in CVID with the most immediate issue being when to booster the COVID-19 vaccine.}, } @article {pmid37179875, year = {2023}, author = {Bahamondes-Rosado, ME and Cerdá-Suárez, LM and Dodero Ortiz de Zevallos, GF and Espinosa-Cristia, JF}, title = {Technostress at work during the COVID-19 lockdown phase (2020-2021): a systematic review of the literature.}, journal = {Frontiers in psychology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1173425}, doi = {10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1173425}, pmid = {37179875}, issn = {1664-1078}, abstract = {Technostress is a psychosocial phenomenon associated with the use of technologies to the detriment of health, the same one that during the pandemic was accelerated in the work considering home confinement. This work aims to systematize the main research on the impact of technostress at work during the severe confinement stage of the pandemic, between the years 2020 and 2021, with the purpose of identify and evaluate its main determining factors. A systematic review of the literature was carried out during COVID-19, using the words "technostress work COVID-19." The works found focus mainly on analyzing the creators and inhibitors of technostress in workers, as well as the main consequences of the materialization of this technological risk associated with work performance during the stage of confinement by COVID-19. Techno invasion and techno overload were identified as the main techno stressors, with the main type of technostress appreciated in the literature being techno fatigue. Technostress is identified as a problem that had direct and relevant effects during the season of severe confinement and remote work at home due to COVID-19; highlighting techno fatigue as the most frequent type of stress, and techno stressors such as techno invasion and overload as the ones that presented the highest incidence.}, } @article {pmid37179790, year = {2023}, author = {Awan, JR and Akhtar, Z and Inayat, F and Farooq, A and Goraya, MHN and Ishtiaq, R and Malik, S and Younus, F and Kazmi, S and Ashraf, MJ and Khan, AA and Tarar, ZI}, title = {Acute acalculous cholecystitis as a rare gastroenterological association of COVID-19: a case series and systematic review.}, journal = {Journal of clinical and translational research}, volume = {9}, number = {2}, pages = {133-143}, pmid = {37179790}, issn = {2424-810X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) is an acute inflammatory disease of the gallbladder in the absence of cholecystolithiasis. It is a serious clinicopathologic entity, with a high mortality rate of 30-50%. A number of etiologies have been identified that can potentially trigger AAC. However, clinical evidence on its occurrence following COVID-19 remains scarce. We aim to evaluate the association between COVID-19 and AAC.

METHODS: We report our clinical experience based on 3 patients who were diagnosed with AAC secondary to COVID-19. A systematic review of the MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Embase databases was conducted for English-only studies. The latest search date was December 20, 2022. Specific search terms were used regarding AAC and COVID-19, with all associated permutations. Articles that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were screened, and 23 studies were selected for a quantitative analysis.

RESULTS: A total of 31 case reports (level of clinical evidence: IV) of AAC related to COVID-19 were included. The mean age of patients was 64.7 ± 14.8 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.1:1. Major clinical presentations included fever 18 (58.0%), abdominal pain 16 (51.6%), and cough 6 (19.3%). Hypertension 17 (54.8%), diabetes mellitus 5 (16.1%), and cardiac disease 5 (16.1%) were among the common comorbid conditions. COVID-19 pneumonia was encountered before, after, or concurrently with AAC in 17 (54.8%), 10 (32.2%), and 4 (12.9%) patients, respectively. Coagulopathy was noted in 9 (29.0%) patients. Imaging studies for AAC included computed tomography scan and ultrasonography in 21 (67.7%) and 8 (25.8%) cases, respectively. Based on the Tokyo Guidelines 2018 criteria for severity, 22 (70.9%) had grade II and 9 (29.0%) patients had grade I cholecystitis. Treatment included surgical intervention in 17 (54.8%), conservative management alone in 8 (25.8%), and percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage in 6 (19.3%) patients. Clinical recovery was achieved in 29 (93.5%) patients. Gallbladder perforation was encountered as a sequela in 4 (12.9%) patients. The mortality rate in patients with AAC following COVID-19 was 6.5%.

CONCLUSIONS: We report AAC as an uncommon but important gastroenterological complication following COVID-19. Clinicians should remain vigilant for COVID-19 as a possible trigger of AAC. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can potentially save patients from morbidity and mortality.

RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS: AAC can occur in association with COVID-19. If left undiagnosed, it may adversely impact the clinical course and outcomes of patients. Therefore, it should be considered among the differential diagnoses of the right upper abdominal pain in these patients. Gangrenous cholecystitis can often be encountered in this setting, necessitating an aggressive treatment approach. Our results point out the clinical importance of raising awareness about this biliary complication of COVID-19, which will aid in early diagnosis and appropriate clinical management.}, } @article {pmid37179752, year = {2023}, author = {Padasas, BT and Españo, E and Kim, SH and Song, Y and Lee, CK and Kim, JK}, title = {COVID-19 Therapeutics: An Update on Effective Treatments Against Infection With SARS-CoV-2 Variants.}, journal = {Immune network}, volume = {23}, number = {2}, pages = {e13}, doi = {10.4110/in.2023.23.e13}, pmid = {37179752}, issn = {1598-2629}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is one of the most consequential global health crises in over a century. Since its discovery in 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to mutate into different variants and sublineages, rendering previously potent treatments and vaccines ineffective. With significant strides in clinical and pharmaceutical research, different therapeutic strategies continue to be developed. The currently available treatments can be broadly classified based on their potential targets and molecular mechanisms. Antiviral agents function by disrupting different stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection, while immune-based treatments mainly act on the human inflammatory response responsible for disease severity. In this review, we discuss some of the current treatments for COVID-19, their mode of actions, and their efficacy against variants of concern. This review highlights the need to constantly evaluate COVID-19 treatment strategies to protect high risk populations and fill in the gaps left by vaccination.}, } @article {pmid37179726, year = {2023}, author = {Saeki, S and Kurosawa, Y and Tomiyama, K and Tomizawa, R and Honda, C and Minamitani, K}, title = {Foreign Patients Visiting the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review of Studies in Japan.}, journal = {JMA journal}, volume = {6}, number = {2}, pages = {95-103}, doi = {10.31662/jmaj.2022-0177}, pmid = {37179726}, issn = {2433-3298}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: As the number of non-native patients in Japan is increasing, emergency departments must provide proper care for international patients. However, no research has been conducted to determine the demographics of international patients that visit Japanese hospitals or the requirements to accept them. We aimed to organize the existing research and its patterns for foreign patients in Japan's emergency departments and to identify the areas that require further research.

METHODS: Systematic review of research articles indexed in MEDLINE and Ichushi-web (Japanese medical literature) was conducted. The search strategy was based on a previous study in Japanese, and the search was limited to manuscripts published from 2015.

RESULTS: Nine publications that reported on the demographic characteristics of foreign patients who visited the emergency department were among the study's 13 references. Injury diagnoses and the Asian population were both common. Dealing with overseas patients can be challenging due to linguistic barriers, cultural differences, and payment issues. However, studies describing the spoken language and the type of healthcare insurance used were lacking. Furthermore, neither the definition of "foreign patients" nor the distinction between short-term visitors and long-term residents were made in the majority of the research.

CONCLUSIONS: The demographic characteristics of patients differed depending on the location and facility, despite the fact that several characteristics of foreign patients in emergency departments appeared to be generalizable. The COVID-19 pandemic may modify the demographic characteristics of immigrants; thus, more research from a broad range of locations and medical facilities is still necessary.}, } @article {pmid37179584, year = {2023}, author = {Liatsos, GD}, title = {SARS-CoV-2 induced liver injury: Incidence, risk factors, impact on COVID-19 severity and prognosis in different population groups.}, journal = {World journal of gastroenterology}, volume = {29}, number = {16}, pages = {2397-2432}, doi = {10.3748/wjg.v29.i16.2397}, pmid = {37179584}, issn = {2219-2840}, abstract = {Liver is unlikely the key organ driving mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) however, liver function tests (LFTs) abnormalities are widely observed mostly in moderate and severe cases. According to this review, the overall prevalence of abnormal LFTs in COVID-19 patients ranges from 2.5% to 96.8% worldwide. The geographical variability in the prevalence of underlying diseases is the determinant for the observed discrepancies between East and West. Multifactorial mechanisms are implicated in COVID-19-induced liver injury. Among them, hypercytokinemia with "bystander hepatitis", cytokine storm syndrome with subsequent oxidative stress and endotheliopathy, hypercoagulable state and immuno-thromboinflammation are the most determinant mechanisms leading to tissue injury. Liver hypoxia may also contribute under specific conditions, while direct hepatocyte injury is an emerging mechanism. Except for initially observed severe acute respiratory distress syndrome corona virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) tropism for cholangiocytes, more recent cumulative data show SARS-CoV-2 virions within hepatocytes and sinusoidal endothelial cells using electron microscopy (EM). The best evidence for hepatocellular invasion by the virus is the identification of replicating SARS-CoV-2 RNA, S protein RNA and viral nucleocapsid protein within hepatocytes using in-situ hybridization and immunostaining with observed intrahepatic presence of SARS-CoV-2 by EM and by in-situ hybridization. New data mostly derived from imaging findings indicate possible long-term sequelae for the liver months after recovery, suggesting a post-COVID-19 persistent live injury.}, } @article {pmid37179568, year = {2023}, author = {Kenny, G and Townsend, L and Savinelli, S and Mallon, PWG}, title = {Long COVID: Clinical characteristics, proposed pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.}, journal = {Frontiers in molecular biosciences}, volume = {10}, number = {}, pages = {1157651}, doi = {10.3389/fmolb.2023.1157651}, pmid = {37179568}, issn = {2296-889X}, abstract = {The emergence of persistent ill-health in the aftermath of SARS-CoV-2 infection has presented significant challenges to patients, healthcare workers and researchers. Termed long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), the symptoms of this condition are highly variable and span multiple body systems. The underlying pathophysiology remains poorly understood, with no therapeutic agents proven to be effective. This narrative review describes predominant clinical features and phenotypes of long COVID alongside the data supporting potential pathogenesis of these phenotypes including ongoing immune dysregulation, viral persistence, endotheliopathy, gastrointestinal microbiome disturbance, autoimmunity, and dysautonomia. Finally, we describe current potential therapies under investigation, as well as future potential therapeutic options based on the proposed pathogenesis research.}, } @article {pmid37179564, year = {2023}, author = {Manganotti, P and Garascia, G and Furlanis, G and Buoite Stella, A}, title = {Efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) on COVID-19-related neurological disorders over the last 2 years: an up-to-date narrative review.}, journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience}, volume = {17}, number = {}, pages = {1159929}, doi = {10.3389/fnins.2023.1159929}, pmid = {37179564}, issn = {1662-4548}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Among the clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection, neurological features have been commonly reported and the state-of-the-art technique suggests several mechanisms of action providing a pathophysiological rationale for central and peripheral neurological system involvement. However, during the 1[st] months of the pandemic, clinicians were challenged to find the best therapeutic options to treat COVID-19-related neurological conditions.

METHODS: We explored the indexed medical literature in order to answer the question of whether IVIg could be included as a valid weapon in the therapeutic arsenal against COVID-19-induced neurological disorders.

RESULTS: Virtually, all reviewed studies were in agreement of detecting an acceptable to great efficacy upon IVIg employment in neurological diseases, with no or mild adverse effects. In the first part of this narrative review, the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with the nervous system has been discussed and the IVIg mechanisms of action were reviewed. In the second part, we collected scientific literature data over the last 2 years to discuss the use of IVIg therapy in different neuro-COVID conditions, thus providing a summary of the treatment strategies and key findings.

DISCUSSION: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy is a versatile tool with multiple molecular targets and mechanisms of action that might respond to some of the suggested effects of infection through inflammatory and autoimmune responses. As such, IVIg therapy has been used in several COVID-19-related neurological diseases, including polyneuropathies, encephalitis, and status epilepticus, and results have often shown improvement of symptoms, thus suggesting IVIg treatment to be safe and effective.}, } @article {pmid37179163, year = {2023}, author = {Kehagia, E and Papakyriakopoulou, P and Valsami, G}, title = {Advances in intranasal vaccine delivery: A promising non-invasive route of immunization.}, journal = {Vaccine}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37179163}, issn = {1873-2518}, abstract = {The importance of vaccination has been proven particularly significant the last three years, as it is revealed to be the most efficient weapon for the prevention of several infections including SARS-COV-2. Parenteral vaccination is the most applicable method of immunization, for the prevention of systematic and respiratory infections, or central nervous system disorders, involving T and B cells to a whole-body immune response. However, the mucosal vaccines, such as nasal vaccines, can additionally activate the immune cells localized on the mucosal tissue of the upper and lower respiratory tract. This dual stimulation of the immune system, along with their needle-free administration favors the development of novel nasal vaccines to produce long-lasting immunity. In recent years, the nanoparticulate systems have been extensively involved in the formulation of nasal vaccines as polymeric, polysaccharide and lipid ones, as well as in the form of proteosomes, lipopeptides and virosomes. Advanced delivery nanosystems have been designed and evaluated as carriers or adjuvants for nasal vaccination. To this end, several nanoparticulate vaccines are undergone clinical trials as promising candidates for nasal immunization, while nasal vaccines against influenza type A and B and hepatitis B have been approved by health authorities. This comprehensive literature review aims to summarize the critical aspects of these formulations and highlight their potential for the future establishment of nasal vaccination. Both preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and clinical studies are incorporated, summarized, and critically discussed, as well as the limitations of nasal immunization.}, } @article {pmid37178992, year = {2023}, author = {Baez, AS and Ortiz-Whittingham, LR and Tarfa, H and Baah, FO and Thompson, K and Baumer, Y and Powell-Wiley, TM}, title = {Social determinants of health, health disparities, and adiposity.}, journal = {Progress in cardiovascular diseases}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.pcad.2023.04.011}, pmid = {37178992}, issn = {1873-1740}, abstract = {Social determinants of health (SDoH), or the socioeconomic, environmental, and psychosocial conditions in which individuals spend their daily lives, substantially influence obesity as a cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the converging epidemics of obesity, CVD, and social inequities globally. Obesity and CVD serve as independent risk factors for COVID-19 severity and lower-resourced populations most impacted by adverse SDoH have the highest COVID-19 mortality rates. Better understanding the interplay between social and biologic factors that contribute to obesity-related CVD disparities are important to equitably address obesity across populations. Despite efforts to investigate SDoH and their biologic effects as drivers of health disparities, the connections between SDoH and obesity remain incompletely understood. This review aims to highlight the relationships between socioeconomic, environmental, and psychosocial factors and obesity. We also present potential biologic factors that may play a role in the biology of adversity, or link SDoH to adiposity and poor adipo-cardiology outcomes. Finally, we provide evidence for multi-level obesity interventions targeting multiple aspects of SDoH. Throughout, we emphasize areas for future research to tailor health equity-promoting interventions across populations to reduce obesity and obesity-related CVD disparities.}, } @article {pmid37178989, year = {2023}, author = {Muhyieddeen, A and Cheng, S and Mamas, MA and Beasley, D and Weins, GC and Gulati, M}, title = {Racial Disparities in Mortality Associated with Acute Myocardial Infarction and COVID-19 in the United States: A Nationwide Analysis.}, journal = {Current problems in cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101798}, pmid = {37178989}, issn = {1535-6280}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on potential racial disparities in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) management and outcomes is unclear. We examined AMI patient management and outcomes during the pandemic's initial nine months, comparing COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 cases.

METHODS: We identified all patients hospitalized for AMI in 2020 using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS), identifying those with or without concurrent COVID-19. Logistic and linear regression was used for analyses of associations, with adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS: Patients with both AMI and COVID-19 had higher in-hospital mortality rates (aOR 3.19, 95% CI 2.63-3.88), mechanical ventilation (aOR 1.90, 95% CI 1.54-2.33), and hemodialysis (aOR 1.38, 95% CI 1.05-1.89) compared to those without COVID-19. Black and Asian/Pacific Islander patients had higher in-hospital mortality than White patients, (aOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.35-3.59) and (aOR 3.41, 95% CI 1.5-8.37). Moreover, Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander patients had higher odds of initiating hemodialysis, (aOR 5.48, 95% CI 2.13-14.1), (aOR 2.99, 95% CI 1.13-7.97), and (aOR 7.84, 95% CI 1.55-39.5) and were less likely to receive PCI for AMI, (aOR 0.71, 95% CI 0.67-0.74), (aOR 0.81, 95% CI 0.77-0.86), and (aOR 0.82, 95% CI 0.75-0.90). Additionally, Black patients had a lower likelihood of undergoing CABG surgery for AMI (aOR 0.55, 95% CI 0.49-0.61).

CONCLUSION: Our study revealed increased mortality and complications in COVID-19 patients with AMI, highlighting significant racial disparities. Urgent measures addressing healthcare disparities, such as enhancing access and promoting culturally sensitive care, are needed to improve health equity.}, } @article {pmid37178835, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, L and Li, S and Ahmad, IM and Zhang, G and Sun, Y and Wang, Y and Sun, C and Jiang, C and Cui, P and Li, D}, title = {Global face mask pollution: Threats to the environment and wildlife, and potential solutions.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {164055}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164055}, pmid = {37178835}, issn = {1879-1026}, abstract = {Face masks are an indispensable low-cost public healthcare necessity for containing viral transmission. After the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) became a pandemic, there was an unprecedented demand for, and subsequent increase in face mask production and use, leading to global ecological challenges, including excessive resource consumption and significant environmental pollution. Here, we review the global demand volume for face masks and the associated energy consumption and pollution potential throughout their life cycle. First, the production and distribution processes consume petroleum-based raw materials and other energy sources and release greenhouse gases. Second, most methods of mask waste disposal result in secondary microplastic pollution and the release of toxic gases and organic substances. Third, face masks discarded in outdoor environments represent a new plastic pollutant and pose significant challenges to the environment and wildlife in various ecosystems. Therefore, the long-term impacts on environmental and wildlife health aspects related to the production, use, and disposal of face masks should be considered and urgently investigated. Here, we propose five reasonable countermeasures to alleviate these global-scale ecological crises induced by mask use during and following the COVID-19 pandemic era: increasing public awareness; improving mask waste management; innovating waste disposal methods; developing biodegradable masks; and formulating relevant policies and regulations. Implementation of these measures will help address the pollution caused by face masks.}, } @article {pmid37178769, year = {2023}, author = {Nicolai, L and Kaiser, R and Stark, K}, title = {Thrombo-inflammation in Long COVID - the elusive key to post-infection sequelae?.}, journal = {Journal of thrombosis and haemostasis : JTH}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.jtha.2023.04.039}, pmid = {37178769}, issn = {1538-7836}, abstract = {Long COVID is a public health emergency affecting millions of people worldwide, characterized by heterogenous symptoms across multiple organs systems. Here, we discuss the current evidence linking thrombo-inflammation to Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Studies have found persistence of vascular damage with increased circulating markers of endothelial dysfunction, coagulation abnormalities with increased thrombin generation capacity, and abnormalities in platelet counts in PASC. Neutrophil phenotype resembles acute COVID-19 with an increase in activation and NETosis. These insights are potentially linked by elevated platelet-neutrophil aggregate formation. This hypercoagulable state in turn can lead to microvascular thrombosis, evidenced by microclots and elevated D-Dimer in the circulation, as well as perfusion abnormalities in the lung and brain of Long COVID patients. Also, COVID-19 survivors suffer from an increased rate of arterial and venous thrombotic events. We discuss three important, potentially intertwined hypotheses, that might contribute to thromboinflammation in Long COVID: Lasting structural changes, most prominently endothelial damage, caused during initial infection, a persistent viral reservoir, and immunopathology driven by a misguided immune system. Lastly, we outline the necessity for large, well-characterized clinical cohorts and mechanistic studies to clarify the contribution of thromboinflammation to Long COVID.}, } @article {pmid37178650, year = {2023}, author = {Yu, D and Xiang, Y and Gou, T and Tong, R and Xu, C and Chen, L and Zhong, L and Shi, J}, title = {New therapeutic approaches against pulmonary fibrosis.}, journal = {Bioorganic chemistry}, volume = {138}, number = {}, pages = {106592}, doi = {10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106592}, pmid = {37178650}, issn = {1090-2120}, abstract = {Pulmonary fibrosis is the end-stage change of a large class of lung diseases characterized by the proliferation of fibroblasts and the accumulation of a large amount of extracellular matrix, accompanied by inflammatory damage and tissue structure destruction, which also shows the normal alveolar tissue is damaged and then abnormally repaired resulting in structural abnormalities (scarring). Pulmonary fibrosis has a serious impact on the respiratory function of the human body, and the clinical manifestation is progressive dyspnea. The incidence of pulmonary fibrosis-related diseases is increasing year by year, and no curative drugs have appeared so far. Nevertheless, research on pulmonary fibrosis have also increased in recent years, but there are no breakthrough results. Pathological changes of pulmonary fibrosis appear in the lungs of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that have not yet ended, and whether to improve the condition of patients with COVID-19 by means of the anti-fibrosis therapy, which are the questions we need to address now. This review systematically sheds light on the current state of research on fibrosis from multiple perspectives, hoping to provide some references for design and optimization of subsequent drugs and the selection of anti-fibrosis treatment plans and strategies.}, } @article {pmid37178492, year = {2023}, author = {Lannon, M and Duda, T and Greer, A and Hewitt, M and Sharma, A and Martyniuk, A and Owen, J and Amin, F and Sharma, S}, title = {Intracranial hemorrhage in patients treated for SARS-CoV-2 with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Journal of critical care}, volume = {77}, number = {}, pages = {154319}, pmid = {37178492}, issn = {1557-8615}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is routinely used in patients with severe respiratory failure and has been increasingly needed during the COVID-19 pandemic. In patients treated with ECMO, significant intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) risk exists due to circuit characteristics, anticoagulation, and disease characteristics. ICH risk may be substantially higher in COVID-19 patients than patients treated with ECMO for other indications.

METHODS: We systematically reviewed current literature regarding ICH during ECMO treatment of COVID-19. We utilized Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases. Meta-analysis was performed for included comparative studies. Quality assessment was performed using MINORS criteria.

RESULTS: A total of 54 studies with 4000 ECMO patients were included, all retrospective. Risk of bias was increased via MINORS score primarily due to retrospective designs. ICH was more likely in COVID-19 patients (RR 1.72, 95% CI 1.23, 2.42). Mortality among COVID patients on ECMO with ICH was 64.0%, compared with 41% in patients without ICH (RR1.9, 95% 1.44, 2.51).

CONCLUSION: This study suggests increased hemorrhage rates in COVID-19 patients on ECMO compared to similar controls. Hemorrhage reduction strategies may include atypical anticoagulants, conservative anticoagulation strategies, or biotechnology advances in circuit design and surface coatings.}, } @article {pmid37178448, year = {2023}, author = {Guan, L and Wang, H and Xu, X and Fan, H}, title = {Therapeutical Utilization and Repurposing of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives: A Narrative Review.}, journal = {Advanced biology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e2300086}, doi = {10.1002/adbi.202300086}, pmid = {37178448}, issn = {2701-0198}, abstract = {Artemisinin (ART) and its derivatives have great therapeutical utility as antimalarials and can be repurposed for other indications, such as viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic effects of ART-based drugs, beyond their antimalarial effects. This review also summarizes the information on their repurposing in other pathologies, with the hope that it will guide the future optimization of the use of ART-based drugs and of the treatment strategies for the listed diseases. By reviewing related literature, ART extraction and structure as well as the synthesis and structure of its derivatives are presented. Subsequently, the traditional roles of ART and its derivatives against malaria are reviewed, including antimalarial mechanism and occurrence of antimalarial resistance. Finally, the potential of ART and its derivatives to be repurposed for the treatment of other diseases are summarized. The great repurposing potential of ART and its derivatives may be useful for the control of emerging diseases with corresponding pathologies, and future research should be directed toward the synthesis of more effective derivatives or better combinations.}, } @article {pmid37177992, year = {2023}, author = {Huang, N and Zhang, S and Mu, Y and Yu, Y and Riem, MME and Guo, J}, title = {Does the COVID-19 Pandemic Increase or Decrease the Global Cyberbullying Behaviors? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.}, journal = {Trauma, violence & abuse}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {15248380231171185}, doi = {10.1177/15248380231171185}, pmid = {37177992}, issn = {1552-8324}, abstract = {Although cyberbullying is an emerging public health problem, it is unclear how the COVID-19 pandemic affects cyberbullying. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on cyberbullying, to estimate the global cyberbullying prevalence and to explore factors related to cyberbullying during the COVID-19 pandemic. We searched the Medline, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Eric, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, Chinese CNKI, and EBSCO databases to identify relevant empirical studies published between 2019 and 2022. A total of 36 studies were included. Quality assessment, meta-analyses, and subgroup analyses were conducted. The pooled prevalences were 16% for overall cyberbullying, 18% for victimization and 11% for perpetration during the COVID-19 pandemic, which were lower than before the COVID-19 pandemic. The pooled prevalence of postpandemic cyberbullying perpetration is lower in children than in adults. In addition, both virus- and lockdown-related stressors were the main factors contributing to cyberbullying. The COVID-19 crisis may reduce cyberbullying, and the pooled prevalence of cyberbullying during the pandemic in adults is higher than in children and adolescents. In addition, the transient-enduring factor model of postpandemic cyberbullying built in this review could help identify people at high risk of cyberbullying during public health emergencies.}, } @article {pmid37180417, year = {2022}, author = {Kramer, ZJ and Brandt, C and Havens, K and Pasupuleti, A and Gaillard, WD and Schreiber, JM}, title = {Telehealth for patients with rare epilepsies.}, journal = {Therapeutic advances in rare disease}, volume = {3}, number = {}, pages = {26330040221076861}, doi = {10.1177/26330040221076861}, pmid = {37180417}, issn = {2633-0040}, abstract = {Recent developments in technology and exigencies of the COVID-19 pandemic have spurred innovations for telehealth in patients with rare epilepsies. This review details the many ways telehealth may be used in the diagnosis and management of rare, pharmacoresistant epilepsy and documents our experience as measured by surveying caregivers of pediatric patients with epilepsy. Most components of the epilepsy evaluation, including history and examination, neuroimaging, and electroencephalogram (EEG) can be performed or reviewed remotely, assuming similar technique and quality of diagnostic studies. Seizure and epilepsy diagnosis is enhanced through the assistance of caregiver smart phone video recordings and 'ambulatory' EEG. Monitoring patient seizure frequency through paper seizure diaries is now increasingly being replaced by electronic diaries in both clinical and research settings. Electronic seizure diaries have numerous advantages such as data durability, increased accessibility, real-time availability, and easier analysis. Telehealth enhances access to specialized epilepsy care, which has been shown to reduce mortality and improve patient compliance and outcomes. Telehealth can also enable evaluation of patients with rare epilepsy in centers of excellence and enhance enrollment in clinical trials. Reducing mortality risk in patients with epilepsy can be accomplished through remote counseling and addressing psychiatric co-morbidities. Findings from surveying caregivers of children with epilepsy treated at Children's National Hospital showed that 54/56 (96.4%) found that not having to commute to the appointment positively contributed to their telemedicine experience. Overall, most respondents had a positive experience with their telemedicine visit. Almost all respondents (98%) were either 'very happy' or 'happy' with their telemedicine visit and their ability to communicate over telemedicine with the provider and either 'very likely' or 'likely' to want to use telemedicine for some future clinic visits. Telehealth in rare epilepsies is feasible and, in many ways, comparable with traditional evaluation and management.}, } @article {pmid37181116, year = {2021}, author = {Scherr, JF and Albright, C and de Los Reyes, E}, title = {Utilizing telehealth to create a clinical model of care for patients with Batten disease and other rare diseases.}, journal = {Therapeutic advances in rare disease}, volume = {2}, number = {}, pages = {26330040211038564}, doi = {10.1177/26330040211038564}, pmid = {37181116}, issn = {2633-0040}, abstract = {UNLABELLED: The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the delivery of healthcare across the world. Telehealth has emerged as the primary method for providing healthcare early in the pandemic. Patient and healthcare provider views of the effectiveness of telehealth services are encouraging and support the long-term use of telehealth services in clinical practice. Telehealth may provide a strategy that has far-reaching benefits for diverse patient populations, such as patients with Batten disease and other rare diseases, who face additional barriers to accessing subspecialty healthcare services. The aims of this paper, through the experience of a single Batten Disease Center of Excellence, are to (1) review the benefits and barriers involved in the delivery of telehealth services to patients with rare diseases; (2) discuss components of a model for clinical care that utilizes telehealth services for patients with Batten disease; (3) discuss limitations and future directions of using telehealth in patients with rare diseases. Healthcare systems should consider building clinical models that utilize telehealth services to provide multidisciplinary services to patients with rare diseases. There are numerous benefits in using telehealth that can enhance and expand service delivery between the patient and clinician. Telehealth services can also improve provider-to-provider communication and collaboration when providing clinical care to individuals with rare diseases. Although there are many benefits to utilizing telehealth services in provision of care to patients with rare diseases, it is important to consider factors that may limit or add additional barriers prior to implementing telehealth services. There is a need for future collaborative research to examine and compare the effectiveness and outcomes of telehealth services with standard of care services that are provided in-person. Future research should also examine how to reduce the challenges and barriers associated with the implementation of telehealth services.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: What is telehealth? Telehealth is defined by the US Department of Health Resources and Services Administrations[1] as the "use of electronic information and telecommunication technologies to support long-distance clinical healthcare, patient and professional health-related education, public health, and health administration. Technologies include video conference, the internet, store-and-forward imaging, streaming media, and terrestrial and wireless communication." What was the aim of this review? This review was conducted to guide a clinical model using telehealth services for patients with Batten disease and other rare diseases based on the experiences of a single Batten Disease Center of Excellence. Why is this important? Individuals with rare diseases may face multiple barriers to accessing clinical services. Local doctors and treatment providers, such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and psychologists, may not have knowledge of rare diseases or how to manage symptoms and disease progression, or how to guide treatment services. Other barriers may also include:• Lack of local resources;• Increased caregiver stress;• Difficulty obtaining a correct diagnosis.There are numerous benefits to using telehealth services for both patients with rare diseases, such as:• Convenience;• Cost savings;• Improved access to care;• Ability to see multiple providers that can help with symptom monitoring, assessment, and treatment services. Where do we go from here? It is important to consider limitations when creating a model for clinical care for patients with rare diseases. Some limitations to think about are:• Clinician and organization familiarity with telehealth;• Reimbursement and coverage from insurance companies for telehealth;• Security and privacy of patient information;• Training of telehealth providers;• Logistical factors, including use of equipment, internet/connectivity, and technical troubleshooting.Future directions should involve collaborative research that studies the effectiveness, feasibility, and perceptions of families of rare diseases and providers that use telehealth for clinical healthcare services. Research should also further study and consider ways to improve barriers and challenges associated with implementing telehealth systems into existing healthcare systems.}, } @article {pmid37176780, year = {2023}, author = {Kuperminc, E and Heming, N and Carlos, M and Annane, D}, title = {Corticosteroids in ARDS.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jcm12093340}, pmid = {37176780}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is frequently associated with sepsis. ARDS and sepsis exhibit a common pathobiology, namely excessive inflammation. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that are routinely used in septic shock and in oxygen-dependent SARS-CoV-2 related acute respiratory failure. Recently, corticosteroids were found to reduce mortality in severe community-acquired pneumonia. Corticosteroids may therefore also have a role to play in the treatment of ARDS. This narrative review was undertaken following a PubMed search for English language reports published before January 2023 using the terms acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis and steroids. Additional reports were identified by examining the reference lists of selected articles and based on personnel knowledge of the authors of the field. High-quality research is needed to fully understand the role of corticosteroids in the treatment of ARDS and to determine the optimal timing, dosing and duration of treatment.}, } @article {pmid37176700, year = {2023}, author = {Kinoshita-Ise, M and Fukuyama, M and Ohyama, M}, title = {Recent Advances in Understanding of the Etiopathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management of Hair Loss Diseases.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jcm12093259}, pmid = {37176700}, issn = {2077-0383}, abstract = {Hair-loss diseases comprise heterogenous conditions with respective pathophysiology and clinicopathological characteristics. Major breakthroughs in hair follicle biology and immunology have led to the elucidation of etiopathogenesis of non-scarring alopecia (e.g., alopecia areata, AA) and cicatricial alopecia (e.g., lichen planopilaris, LPP). High-throughput genetic analyses revealed molecular mechanism underlying the disease susceptibility of hair loss conditions, such as androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and female pattern hair loss (FPHL). Hair loss attracted public interest during the COVID-19 pandemic. The knowledge of hair loss diseases is robustly expanding and thus requires timely updates. In this review, the diagnostic and measurement methodologies applied to hair loss diseases are updated. Of note, novel criteria and classification/scoring systems published in the last decade are reviewed, highlighting their advantages over conventional ones. Emerging diagnostic techniques are itemized with clinical pearls enabling efficient utilization. Recent advances in understanding the etiopathogenesis and management for representative hair diseases, namely AGA, FPHL, AA, and major primary cicatricial alopecia, including LPP, are comprehensively summarized, focusing on causative factors, genetic predisposition, new disease entity, and novel therapeutic options. Lastly, the association between COVID-19 and hair loss is discussed to delineate telogen effluvium as the predominating pathomechanism accounting for this sequela.}, } @article {pmid37176630, year = {2023}, author = {Granholm, AC}, title = {Long-Term Effects of SARS-CoV-2 in the Brain: Clinical Consequences and Molecular Mechanisms.}, journal = {Journal of clinical medicine}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/jcm12093190}, pmid = {37176630}, issn = {2077-0383}, support = {R01AG061566/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {Numerous investigations have demonstrated significant and long-lasting neurological manifestations of COVID-19. It has been suggested that as many as four out of five patients who sustained COVID-19 will show one or several neurological symptoms that can last months after the infection has run its course. Neurological symptoms are most common in people who are less than 60 years of age, while encephalopathy is more common in those over 60. Biological mechanisms for these neurological symptoms need to be investigated and may include both direct and indirect effects of the virus on the brain and spinal cord. Individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementia, as well as persons with Down syndrome (DS), are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, but the biological reasons for this are not clear. Investigating the neurological consequences of COVID-19 is an urgent emerging medical need, since close to 700 million people worldwide have now had COVID-19 at least once. It is likely that there will be a new burden on healthcare and the economy dealing with the long-term neurological consequences of severe SARS-CoV-2 infections and long COVID, even in younger generations. Interestingly, neurological symptoms after an acute infection are strikingly similar to the symptoms observed after a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) or concussion, including dizziness, balance issues, anosmia, and headaches. The possible convergence of biological pathways involved in both will be discussed. The current review is focused on the most commonly described neurological symptoms, as well as the possible molecular mechanisms involved.}, } @article {pmid37176011, year = {2023}, author = {Tana, C and Azorin, DG and Cinetto, F and Mantini, C and Tana, M and Caulo, M and Ricci, F and Martelletti, P and Cipollone, F and Giamberardino, MA}, title = {Common Clinical and Molecular Pathways between Migraine and Sarcoidosis.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24098304}, pmid = {37176011}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Migraine and sarcoidosis are two distinct medical conditions that may have some common biological and clinical pathways. Sarcoidosis is a chronic granulomatous disease characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs, including the lungs, skin, cardiovascular system, lymph nodes, and brain. Migraine is a common comorbidity in sarcoidosis patients and a common neurological disorder characterized by recurrent headaches that can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. There have been several reports of individuals with neurosarcoidosis experiencing migraines, though the exact relationship between the two disorders is not well understood. Both conditions have been associated with inflammation and the activation of the immune system. In sarcoidosis, the formation of granulomas is thought to be an immune response to the presence of an unknown antigen. Similarly, the pain and other symptoms associated with migraines are thought to be caused by inflammation in the brain and the surrounding blood vessels. There is also evidence to suggest an interplay of environmental and genetic factors playing a role in both conditions, but evidence is inconsistent with the hypothesis of shared genetic susceptibility. This review aims to illustrate common clinical and biological pathways between migraine and sarcoidosis, including inflammation and dysregulation of the immune system, with a focus on the cumulative burden of concurrent disorders and therapeutic implications.}, } @article {pmid37175995, year = {2023}, author = {Gonzalez-Garcia, P and Fiorillo Moreno, O and Zarate Peñata, E and Calderon-Villalba, A and Pacheco Lugo, L and Acosta Hoyos, A and Villarreal Camacho, JL and Navarro Quiroz, R and Pacheco Londoño, L and Aroca Martinez, G and Moares, N and Gabucio, A and Fernandez-Ponce, C and Garcia-Cozar, F and Navarro Quiroz, E}, title = {From Cell to Symptoms: The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Cytopathic Effects in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19 and Long COVID.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24098290}, pmid = {37175995}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and long COVID.}, } @article {pmid37175942, year = {2023}, author = {Vassiliou, AG and Vrettou, CS and Keskinidou, C and Dimopoulou, I and Kotanidou, A and Orfanos, SE}, title = {Endotheliopathy in Acute COVID-19 and Long COVID.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24098237}, pmid = {37175942}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {The pulmonary endothelium is a highly regulated organ that performs a wide range of functions under physiological and pathological conditions. Since endothelial dysfunction has been demonstrated to play a direct role in sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome, its role in COVID-19 has also been extensively investigated. Indeed, apart from the COVID-19-associated coagulopathy biomarkers, new biomarkers were recognised early during the pandemic, including markers of endothelial cell activation or injury. We systematically searched the literature up to 10 March 2023 for studies examining the association between acute and long COVID-19 severity and outcomes and endothelial biomarkers.}, } @article {pmid37175768, year = {2023}, author = {Mantovani, S and Oliviero, B and Varchetta, S and Renieri, A and Mondelli, MU}, title = {TLRs: Innate Immune Sentries against SARS-CoV-2 Infection.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24098065}, pmid = {37175768}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been responsible for a devastating pandemic since March 2020. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), crucial components in the initiation of innate immune responses to different pathogens, trigger the downstream production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interferons, and other mediators. It has been demonstrated that they contribute to the dysregulated immune response observed in patients with severe COVID-19. TLR2, TLR3, TLR4 and TLR7 have been associated with COVID-19 severity. Here, we review the role of TLRs in the etiology and pathogenesis of COVID-19, including TLR7 and TLR3 rare variants, the L412F polymorphism in TLR3 that negatively regulates anti-SARS-CoV-2 immune responses, the TLR3-related cellular senescence, the interaction of TLR2 and TLR4 with SARS-CoV-2 proteins and implication of TLR2 in NET formation by SARS-CoV-2. The activation of TLRs contributes to viral clearance and disease resolution. However, TLRs may represent a double-edged sword which may elicit dysregulated immune signaling, leading to the production of proinflammatory mediators, resulting in severe disease. TLR-dependent excessive inflammation and TLR-dependent antiviral response may tip the balance towards the former or the latter, altering the equilibrium that drives the severity of disease.}, } @article {pmid37175745, year = {2023}, author = {Chen, TH and Chang, CJ and Hung, PH}, title = {Possible Pathogenesis and Prevention of Long COVID: SARS-CoV-2-Induced Mitochondrial Disorder.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24098034}, pmid = {37175745}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Patients who have recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection may experience chronic fatigue when exercising, despite no obvious heart or lung abnormalities. The present lack of effective treatments makes managing long COVID a major challenge. One of the underlying mechanisms of long COVID may be mitochondrial dysfunction. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections can alter the mitochondria responsible for energy production in cells. This alteration leads to mitochondrial dysfunction which, in turn, increases oxidative stress. Ultimately, this results in a loss of mitochondrial integrity and cell death. Moreover, viral proteins can bind to mitochondrial complexes, disrupting mitochondrial function and causing the immune cells to over-react. This over-reaction leads to inflammation and potentially long COVID symptoms. It is important to note that the roles of mitochondrial damage and inflammatory responses caused by SARS-CoV-2 in the development of long COVID are still being elucidated. Targeting mitochondrial function may provide promising new clinical approaches for long-COVID patients; however, further studies are needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of such approaches.}, } @article {pmid37175680, year = {2023}, author = {Wada, H and Shiraki, K and Shimpo, H and Shimaoka, M and Iba, T and Suzuki-Inoue, K}, title = {Thrombotic Mechanism Involving Platelet Activation, Hypercoagulability and Hypofibrinolysis in Coronavirus Disease 2019.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24097975}, pmid = {37175680}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread, with thrombotic complications being increasingly frequently reported. Although thrombosis is frequently complicated in septic patients, there are some differences in the thrombosis noted with COVID-19 and that noted with bacterial infections. The incidence (6-26%) of thrombosis varied among reports in patients with COVID-19; the incidences of venous thromboembolism and acute arterial thrombosis were 4.8-21.0% and 0.7-3.7%, respectively. Although disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is frequently associated with bacterial infections, a few cases of DIC have been reported in association with COVID-19. Fibrin-related markers, such as D-dimer levels, are extremely high in bacterial infections, whereas soluble C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (sCLEC-2) levels are high in COVID-19, suggesting that hypercoagulable and hyperfibrinolytic states are predominant in bacterial infections, whereas hypercoagulable and hypofibrinolytic states with platelet activation are predominant in COVID-19. Marked platelet activation, hypercoagulability and hypofibrinolytic states may cause thrombosis in patients with COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37175645, year = {2023}, author = {Ji, C}, title = {Molecular Factors and Pathways of Hepatotoxicity Associated with HIV/SARS-CoV-2 Protease Inhibitors.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24097938}, pmid = {37175645}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Antiviral protease inhibitors are peptidomimetic molecules that block the active catalytic center of viral proteases and, thereby, prevent the cleavage of viral polyprotein precursors into maturation. They continue to be a key class of antiviral drugs that can be used either as boosters for other classes of antivirals or as major components of current regimens in therapies for the treatment of infections with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, sustained/lifelong treatment with the drugs or drugs combined with other substance(s) often leads to severe hepatic side effects such as lipid abnormalities, insulin resistance, and hepatotoxicity. The underlying pathogenic mechanisms are not fully known and are under continuous investigation. This review focuses on the general as well as specific molecular mechanisms of the protease inhibitor-induced hepatotoxicity involving transporter proteins, apolipoprotein B, cytochrome P450 isozymes, insulin-receptor substrate 1, Akt/PKB signaling, lipogenic factors, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, pregnane X receptor, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α, reactive oxygen species, inflammatory cytokines, off-target proteases, and small GTPase Rab proteins related to ER-Golgi trafficking, organelle stress, and liver injury. Potential pharmaceutical/therapeutic solutions to antiviral drug-induced hepatic side effects are also discussed.}, } @article {pmid37175571, year = {2023}, author = {Korb, VG and Schultz, IC and Beckenkamp, LR and Wink, MR}, title = {A Systematic Review of the Role of Purinergic Signalling Pathway in the Treatment of COVID-19.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24097865}, pmid = {37175571}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global health concern. Three years since its origin, despite the approval of vaccines and specific treatments against this new coronavirus, there are still high rates of infection, hospitalization, and mortality in some countries. COVID-19 is characterised by a high inflammatory state and coagulation disturbances that may be linked to purinergic signalling molecules such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), adenosine (ADO), and purinergic receptors (P1 and P2). These nucleotides/nucleosides play important roles in cellular processes, such as immunomodulation, blood clot formation, and vasodilation, which are affected during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, drugs targeting this purinergic pathway, currently used for other pathologies, are being evaluated in preclinical and clinical trials for COVID-19. In this review, we focus on the potential of these drugs to control the release, degradation, and reuptake of these extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides to treat COVID-19. Drugs targeting the P1 receptors could have therapeutic efficacy due to their capacity to modulate the cytokine storm and the immune response. Those acting in P2X7, which is linked to NLRP3 inflammasome activation, are also valuable candidates as they can reduce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, according to the available preclinical and clinical data, the most promising medications to be used for COVID-19 treatment are those that modulate platelets behaviour and blood coagulation factors, mainly through the P2Y12 receptor.}, } @article {pmid37175509, year = {2023}, author = {Costanzo, M and De Giglio, MAR and Roviello, GN}, title = {Deciphering the Relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and Cancer.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24097803}, pmid = {37175509}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Some viruses are known to be associated with the onset of specific cancers. These microorganisms, oncogenic viruses or oncoviruses, can convert normal cells into cancer cells by modulating the central metabolic pathways or hampering genomic integrity mechanisms, consequently inhibiting the apoptotic machinery and/or enhancing cell proliferation. Seven oncogenic viruses are known to promote tumorigenesis in humans: human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV, HCV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human T-cell leukemia virus 1 (HTLV-1), Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Recent research indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 progression may predispose recovered patients to cancer onset and accelerate cancer development. This hypothesis is based on the growing evidence regarding the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to modulate oncogenic pathways, promoting chronic low-grade inflammation and causing tissue damage. Herein, we summarize the main relationships known to date between virus infection and cancer, providing a summary of the proposed biochemical mechanisms behind the cellular transformation. Mechanistically, DNA viruses (such as HPV, HBV, EBV, and MCPyV) encode their virus oncogenes. In contrast, RNA viruses (like HCV, HTLV-1) may encode oncogenes or trigger host oncogenes through cis-/-trans activation leading to different types of cancer. As for SARS-CoV-2, its role as an oncogenic virus seems to occur through the inhibition of oncosuppressors or controlling the metabolic and autophagy pathways in the infected cells. However, these effects could be significant in particular scenarios like those linked to severe COVID-19 or long COVID. On the other hand, looking at the SARS-CoV-2─cancer relationship from an opposite perspective, oncolytic effects and anti-tumor immune response were triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection in some cases. In summary, our work aims to recall comprehensive attention from the scientific community to elucidate the effects of SARS-CoV-2 and, more in general, β-coronavirus infection on cancer susceptibility for cancer prevention or supporting therapeutic approaches.}, } @article {pmid37175443, year = {2023}, author = {Ivanova, T and Mariienko, Y and Mehterov, N and Kazakova, M and Sbirkov, Y and Todorova, K and Hayrabedyan, S and Sarafian, V}, title = {Autophagy and SARS-CoV-2-Old Players in New Games.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24097734}, pmid = {37175443}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {At present it is well-defined that autophagy is a fundamental process essential for cell life but its pro-viral and anti-viral role has been stated out with the COVID pandemic. However, viruses in turn have evolved diverse adaptive strategies to cope with autophagy driven host defense, either by blocking or hijacking the autophagy machinery for their own benefit. The mechanisms underlying autophagy modulation are presented in the current review which summarizes the accumulated knowledge on the crosstalk between autophagy and viral infections, with a particular emphasizes on SARS-CoV-2. The different types of autophagy related to infections and their molecular mechanisms are focused in the context of inflammation. In particular, SARS-CoV-2 entry, replication and disease pathogenesis are discussed. Models to study autophagy and to formulate novel treatment approaches and pharmacological modulation to fight COVID-19 are debated. The SARS-CoV-2-autophagy interplay is presented, revealing the complex dynamics and the molecular machinery of autophagy. The new molecular targets and strategies to treat COVID-19 effectively are envisaged. In conclusion, our finding underline the importance of development new treatment strategies and pharmacological modulation of autophagy to fight COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37175422, year = {2023}, author = {Yip, F and Lai, B and Yang, D}, title = {Role of Coxsackievirus B3-Induced Immune Responses in the Transition from Myocarditis to Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure.}, journal = {International journal of molecular sciences}, volume = {24}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/ijms24097717}, pmid = {37175422}, issn = {1422-0067}, abstract = {Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a cardiac disease marked by the stretching and thinning of the heart muscle and impaired left ventricular contractile function. While most patients do not develop significant cardiac diseases from myocarditis, disparate immune responses can affect pathological outcomes, including DCM progression. These altered immune responses, which may be caused by genetic variance, can prolong cytotoxicity, induce direct cleavage of host protein, or encourage atypical wound healing responses that result in tissue scarring and impaired mechanical and electrical heart function. However, it is unclear which alterations within host immune profiles are crucial to dictating the outcomes of myocarditis. Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is a well-studied virus that has been identified as a causal agent of myocarditis in various models, along with other viruses such as adenovirus, parvovirus B19, and SARS-CoV-2. This paper takes CVB3 as a pathogenic example to review the recent advances in understanding virus-induced immune responses and differential gene expression that regulates iron, lipid, and glucose metabolic remodeling, the severity of cardiac tissue damage, and the development of DCM and heart failure.}, } @article {pmid37175186, year = {2023}, author = {Curulli, A}, title = {Functional Nanomaterials Enhancing Electrochemical Biosensors as Smart Tools for Detecting Infectious Viral Diseases.}, journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {28}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/molecules28093777}, pmid = {37175186}, issn = {1420-3049}, abstract = {Electrochemical biosensors are known as analytical tools, guaranteeing rapid and on-site results in medical diagnostics, food safety, environmental protection, and life sciences research. Current research focuses on developing sensors for specific targets and addresses challenges to be solved before their commercialization. These challenges typically include the lowering of the limit of detection, the widening of the linear concentration range, the analysis of real samples in a real environment and the comparison with a standard validation method. Nowadays, functional nanomaterials are designed and applied in electrochemical biosensing to support all these challenges. This review will address the integration of functional nanomaterials in the development of electrochemical biosensors for the rapid diagnosis of viral infections, such as COVID-19, middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS), influenza, hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and dengue, among others. The role and relevance of the nanomaterial, the type of biosensor, and the electrochemical technique adopted will be discussed. Finally, the critical issues in applying laboratory research to the analysis of real samples, future perspectives, and commercialization aspects of electrochemical biosensors for virus detection will be analyzed.}, } @article {pmid37175181, year = {2023}, author = {Alexova, R and Alexandrova, S and Dragomanova, S and Kalfin, R and Solak, A and Mehan, S and Petralia, MC and Fagone, P and Mangano, K and Nicoletti, F and Tancheva, L}, title = {Anti-COVID-19 Potential of Ellagic Acid and Polyphenols of Punica granatum L.}, journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {28}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/molecules28093772}, pmid = {37175181}, issn = {1420-3049}, abstract = {Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a rich source of polyphenols, including ellagitannins and ellagic acid. The plant is used in traditional medicine, and its purified components can provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity and support of host defenses during viral infection and recovery from disease. Current data show that pomegranate polyphenol extract and its ellagitannin components and metabolites exert their beneficial effects by controlling immune cell infiltration, regulating the cytokine secretion and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production, and by modulating the activity of the NFκB pathway. In vitro, pomegranate extracts and ellagitannins interact with and inhibit the infectivity of a range of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. In silico docking studies show that ellagitannins bind to several SARS-CoV-2 and human proteins, including a number of proteases. This warrants further exploration of polyphenol-viral and polyphenol-host interactions in in vitro and in vivo studies. Pomegranate extracts, ellagitannins and ellagic acid are promising agents to target the SARS-CoV-2 virus and to restrict the host inflammatory response to viral infections, as well as to supplement the depleted host antioxidant levels during the stage of recovery from COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37174941, year = {2023}, author = {Vilca-Alosilla, JJ and Candia-Puma, MA and Coronel-Monje, K and Goyzueta-Mamani, LD and Galdino, AS and Machado-de-Ávila, RA and Giunchetti, RC and Ferraz Coelho, EA and Chávez-Fumagalli, MA}, title = {A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Comparing the Diagnostic Accuracy Tests of COVID-19.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13091549}, pmid = {37174941}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {In this paper, we present a systematic review and meta-analysis that aims to evaluate the reliability of coronavirus disease diagnostic tests in 2019 (COVID-19). This article seeks to describe the scientific discoveries made because of diagnostic tests conducted in recent years during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Between 2020 and 2021, searches for published papers on the COVID-19 diagnostic were made in the PubMed database. Ninety-nine scientific articles that satisfied the requirements were analyzed and included in the meta-analysis, and the specificity and sensitivity of the diagnostic accuracy were assessed. When compared to serological tests such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA), lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA), and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), molecular tests such as reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) performed better in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, the area under the curve restricted to the false-positive rates (AUCFPR) of 0.984 obtained by the antiviral neutralization bioassay (ANB) diagnostic test revealed significant potential for the identification of COVID-19. It has been established that the various diagnostic tests have been effectively adapted for the detection of SARS-CoV-2; nevertheless, their performance still must be enhanced to contain potential COVID-19 outbreaks, which will also help contain potential infectious agent outbreaks in the future.}, } @article {pmid37174938, year = {2023}, author = {Seah, JJ and Zhao, J and Wang, Y and Lee, HP}, title = {Review on the Advancements of Stethoscope Types in Chest Auscultation.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13091545}, pmid = {37174938}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {Stethoscopes were originally designed for the auscultation of a patient's chest for the purpose of listening to lung and heart sounds. These aid medical professionals in their evaluation of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as in other applications, such as listening to bowel sounds in the gastrointestinal system or assessing for vascular bruits. Listening to internal sounds during chest auscultation aids healthcare professionals in their diagnosis of a patient's illness. We performed an extensive literature review on the currently available stethoscopes specifically for use in chest auscultation. By understanding the specificities of the different stethoscopes available, healthcare professionals can capitalize on their beneficial features, to serve both clinical and educational purposes. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the unique application of digital stethoscopes for telemedicine. Thus, the advantages and limitations of digital stethoscopes are reviewed. Lastly, to determine the best available stethoscopes in the healthcare industry, this literature review explored various benchmarking methods that can be used to identify areas of improvement for existing stethoscopes, as well as to serve as a standard for the general comparison of stethoscope quality. The potential use of digital stethoscopes for telemedicine amidst ongoing technological advancements in wearable sensors and modern communication facilities such as 5G are also discussed. Based on the ongoing trend in advancements in wearable technology, telemedicine, and smart hospitals, understanding the benefits and limitations of the digital stethoscope is an essential consideration for potential equipment deployment, especially during the height of the current COVID-19 pandemic and, more importantly, for future healthcare crises when human and resource mobility is restricted.}, } @article {pmid37174920, year = {2023}, author = {Ramji, HF and Hafiz, M and Altaq, HH and Hussain, ST and Chaudry, F}, title = {Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome; A Review of Recent Updates and a Glance into the Future.}, journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {13}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/diagnostics13091528}, pmid = {37174920}, issn = {2075-4418}, abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a rapidly progressive form of respiratory failure that accounts for 10% of admissions to the ICU and is associated with approximately 40% mortality in severe cases. Despite significant mortality and healthcare burden, the mainstay of management remains supportive care. The recent pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 has re-ignited a worldwide interest in exploring the pathophysiology of ARDS, looking for innovative ideas to treat this disease. Recently, many trials have been published utilizing different pharmacotherapy targets; however, the long-term benefits of these agents remain unknown. Metabolomics profiling and stem cell transplantation offer strong enthusiasm and may completely change the outlook of ARDS management in the near future.}, } @article {pmid37174790, year = {2023}, author = {Sun, Z and Chai, L and Ma, R}, title = {Long-Term Care Research in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Bibliometric Analysis.}, journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/healthcare11091248}, pmid = {37174790}, issn = {2227-9032}, abstract = {Despite the increasing awareness of long-term care (LTC) research after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, little attention was given to quantitatively describe the evolution of the research field during this period. A total of 1024 articles retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database were systematically analyzed using CiteSpace visualization software. The overall characteristics analysis showed that, in the context of the pandemic, attention to LTC research increased significantly-over 800 articles were published in the past two years. The USA, Canada, Italy, and England formed the leading LTC research group, which was consistent with the conclusions of existing bibliometric studies on LTC research before the outbreak. A rigorous analysis based on a dual perspective of references and keywords was applied to reveal that, compared with previous studies, in the context of the pandemic, the focus shifted from the mental and physical health status of older adults in need of LTC to the impact of the pandemic on those of older adults in LTC facilities, from the prevention of general epidemics to the prevention and response of significant public health emergencies, from providing and paying for LTC to strategies for LTC facilities to improve the quality of LTC and well-being of their residents during the pandemic. These findings can provide help and reference for academics, civil folks, and LTC practitioners, as well as help with the sustainable development of LTC research in the context of COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37174696, year = {2023}, author = {Shevchuk, O and Palii, S and Pak, A and Chantada, N and Seoane, N and Korda, M and Campos-Toimil, M and Álvarez, E}, title = {Vessel-on-a-Chip: A Powerful Tool for Investigating Endothelial COVID-19 Fingerprints.}, journal = {Cells}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/cells12091297}, pmid = {37174696}, issn = {2073-4409}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) causes various vascular and blood-related reactions, including exacerbated responses. The role of endothelial cells in this acute response is remarkable and may remain important beyond the acute phase. As we move into a post-COVID-19 era (where most people have been or will be infected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus), it is crucial to define the vascular consequences of COVID-19, including the long-term effects on the cardiovascular system. Research is needed to determine whether chronic endothelial dysfunction following COVID-19 could lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular and thrombotic events. Endothelial dysfunction could also serve as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for post-COVID-19. This review covers these topics and examines the potential of emerging vessel-on-a-chip technology to address these needs. Vessel-on-a-chip would allow for the study of COVID-19 pathophysiology in endothelial cells, including the analysis of SARS-CoV-2 interactions with endothelial function, leukocyte recruitment, and platelet activation. "Personalization" could be implemented in the models through induced pluripotent stem cells, patient-specific characteristics, or genetic modified cells. Adaptation for massive testing under standardized protocols is now possible, so the chips could be incorporated for the personalized follow-up of the disease or its sequalae (long COVID) and for the research of new drugs against COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37174685, year = {2023}, author = {Jiang, M and Jang, SE and Zeng, L}, title = {The Effects of Extrinsic and Intrinsic Factors on Neurogenesis.}, journal = {Cells}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/cells12091285}, pmid = {37174685}, issn = {2073-4409}, abstract = {In the mammalian brain, neurogenesis is maintained throughout adulthood primarily in two typical niches, the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the dentate gyrus and the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricles and in other nonclassic neurogenic areas (e.g., the amygdala and striatum). During prenatal and early postnatal development, neural stem cells (NSCs) differentiate into neurons and migrate to appropriate areas such as the olfactory bulb where they integrate into existing neural networks; these phenomena constitute the multistep process of neurogenesis. Alterations in any of these processes impair neurogenesis and may even lead to brain dysfunction, including cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration. Here, we first summarize the main properties of mammalian neurogenic niches to describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurogenesis. Accumulating evidence indicates that neurogenesis plays an integral role in neuronal plasticity in the brain and cognition in the postnatal period. Given that neurogenesis can be highly modulated by a number of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, we discuss the impact of extrinsic (e.g., alcohol) and intrinsic (e.g., hormones) modulators on neurogenesis. Additionally, we provide an overview of the contribution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection to persistent neurological sequelae such as neurodegeneration, neurogenic defects and accelerated neuronal cell death. Together, our review provides a link between extrinsic/intrinsic factors and neurogenesis and explains the possible mechanisms of abnormal neurogenesis underlying neurological disorders.}, } @article {pmid37174613, year = {2023}, author = {Zafar, H and Saier, MH}, title = {Understanding the Relationship of the Human Bacteriome with COVID-19 Severity and Recovery.}, journal = {Cells}, volume = {12}, number = {9}, pages = {}, doi = {10.3390/cells12091213}, pmid = {37174613}, issn = {2073-4409}, support = {GM077402/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) first emerged in 2019 in China and has resulted in millions of human morbidities and mortalities across the globe. Evidence has been provided that this novel virus originated in animals, mutated, and made the cross-species jump to humans. At the time of this communication, the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may be on its way to an endemic form; however, the threat of the virus is more for susceptible (older and immunocompromised) people. The human body has millions of bacterial cells that influence health and disease. As a consequence, the bacteriomes in the human body substantially influence human health and disease. The bacteriomes in the body and the immune system seem to be in constant association during bacterial and viral infections. In this review, we identify various bacterial spp. In major bacteriomes (oral, nasal, lung, and gut) of the body in healthy humans and compare them with dysbiotic bacteriomes of COVID-19 patients. We try to identify key bacterial spp. That have a positive effect on the functionality of the immune system and human health. These select bacterial spp. Could be used as potential probiotics to counter or prevent COVID-19 infections. In addition, we try to identify key metabolites produced by probiotic bacterial spp. That could have potential anti-viral effects against SARS-CoV-2. These metabolites could be subject to future therapeutic trials to determine their anti-viral efficacies.}, } @article {pmid37173515, year = {2023}, author = {von Delft, A and Hall, MD and Kwong, AD and Purcell, LA and Saikatendu, KS and Schmitz, U and Tallarico, JA and Lee, AA}, title = {Accelerating antiviral drug discovery: lessons from COVID-19.}, journal = {Nature reviews. Drug discovery}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37173515}, issn = {1474-1784}, abstract = {During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a wave of rapid and collaborative drug discovery efforts took place in academia and industry, culminating in several therapeutics being discovered, approved and deployed in a 2-year time frame. This article summarizes the collective experience of several pharmaceutical companies and academic collaborations that were active in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antiviral discovery. We outline our opinions and experiences on key stages in the small-molecule drug discovery process: target selection, medicinal chemistry, antiviral assays, animal efficacy and attempts to pre-empt resistance. We propose strategies that could accelerate future efforts and argue that a key bottleneck is the lack of quality chemical probes around understudied viral targets, which would serve as a starting point for drug discovery. Considering the small size of the viral proteome, comprehensively building an arsenal of probes for proteins in viruses of pandemic concern is a worthwhile and tractable challenge for the community.}, } @article {pmid37172866, year = {2023}, author = {Tariq, J and Kumar, S}, title = {Response to - "Evaluation of pulmonary function and exercise capacity after COVID-19 pneumonia''.}, journal = {Current problems in cardiology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {101784}, doi = {10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.101784}, pmid = {37172866}, issn = {1535-6280}, } @article {pmid37172781, year = {2023}, author = {Urmi, UL and Vijay, AK and Kuppusamy, R and Islam, S and Willcox, MDP}, title = {A Review of the Antiviral Activity of Cationic Antimicrobial Peptides.}, journal = {Peptides}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {171024}, doi = {10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171024}, pmid = {37172781}, issn = {1873-5169}, abstract = {Viral epidemics are occurring frequently, and the COVID-19 viral pandemic has resulted in at least 6.5 million deaths worldwide. Although antiviral therapeutics are available, these may not have sufficient effect. The emergence of resistant or novel viruses requires new therapies. Cationic antimicrobial peptides are agents of the innate immune system that may offer a promising solution to viral infections. These peptides are gaining attention as possible therapies for viral infections or for use as prophylactic agents to prevent viral spread. This narrative review examines antiviral peptides, their structural features, and mechanism of activity. A total of 156 cationic antiviral peptides were examined for information of their mechanism of action against both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Antiviral peptides can be isolated from various natural sources or can be generated synthetically. The latter tend to be more specific and effective and can be made to have a broad spectrum of activity with minimal side effects. Their unique properties of being positively charges and amphipathic enable their main mode of action which is to target and disrupt viral lipid envelopes, thereby inhibiting viral entry and replication. This review offers a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of antiviral peptides, which could potentially aid in the design and creation of novel antiviral medications.}, } @article {pmid37172603, year = {2023}, author = {Emanuel, EJ and Persad, G}, title = {The shared ethical framework to allocate scarce medical resources: a lesson from COVID-19.}, journal = {Lancet (London, England)}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00812-7}, pmid = {37172603}, issn = {1474-547X}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has helped to clarify the fair and equitable allocation of scarce medical resources, both within and among countries. The ethical allocation of such resources entails a three-step process: (1) elucidating the fundamental ethical values for allocation, (2) using these values to delineate priority tiers for scarce resources, and (3) implementing the prioritisation to faithfully realise the fundamental values. Myriad reports and assessments have elucidated five core substantive values for ethical allocation: maximising benefits and minimising harms, mitigating unfair disadvantage, equal moral concern, reciprocity, and instrumental value. These values are universal. None of the values are sufficient alone, and their relative weight and application will vary by context. In addition, there are procedural principles such as transparency, engagement, and evidence-responsiveness. Prioritising instrumental value and minimising harms during the COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread agreement on priority tiers to include health-care workers, first responders, people living in congregate housing, and people with an increased risk of death, such as older adults and individuals with medical conditions. However, the pandemic also revealed problems with the implementation of these values and priority tiers, such as allocation on the basis of population rather than COVID-19 burden, and passive allocation that exacerbated disparities by requiring recipients to spend time booking and travelling to appointments. This ethical framework should be the starting point for the allocation of scarce medical resources in future pandemics and other public health conditions. For instance, allocation of the new malaria vaccine among sub-Saharan African countries should be based not on reciprocity to countries that participated in research, but on maximally reducing serious illness and deaths, especially among infants and children.}, } @article {pmid37172333, year = {2023}, author = {Fu, Y and Xue, H and Wang, T and Ding, Y and Cui, Y and Nie, H}, title = {Fibrinolytic system and COVID-19: From an innovative view of epithelial ion transport.}, journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie}, volume = {163}, number = {}, pages = {114863}, pmid = {37172333}, issn = {1950-6007}, abstract = {Lifeways of worldwide people have changed dramatically amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and public health is at stake currently. In the early stage of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, fibrinolytic system is mostly inhibited, which is responsible for the development of hypofibrinolysis, promoting disseminated intravascular coagulation, hyaline membrane formation, and pulmonary edema. Whereas the common feature and risk factor at advanced stage is a large amount of fibrin degradation products, including D-dimer, the characteristic of hyperfibrinolysis. Plasmin can cleave both SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and γ subunit of epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), a critical element to edematous fluid clearance. In this review, we aim to sort out the role of fibrinolytic system in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, as well as provide the possible guidance in current treating methods. In addition, the abnormal regulation of ENaC in the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 mediated hypofibrinolysis and hyperfibrinolysis are summarized, with the view of proposing an innovative view of epithelial ion transport in preventing the dysfunction of fibrinolytic system during the progress of COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37171672, year = {2023}, author = {Cannon, L and Campbell, MJ and Wu, EY}, title = {Multisystemic Inflammatory Syndrome in Children and Kawasaki Disease: Parallels in Pathogenesis and Treatment.}, journal = {Current allergy and asthma reports}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37171672}, issn = {1534-6315}, support = {KL2TR002490/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Since it first appeared, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been compared to Kawasaki disease (KD). Although there were early parallels between MIS-C and KD, key differences emerged over time. Here, we aim to compare the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of MIS-C and KD.

RECENT FINDINGS: In this article, we review and compare MIS-C and KD, highlighting differentiating features. We discuss the epidemiological and immunological factors along with clinical and laboratory features which discern MIS-C from KD. We also compare treatment and our understanding of long-term outcomes. Though parallels exist between MIS-C and KD, distinguishing the two is important for clinical management of patients, counseling about natural history, and determining long-term monitoring. While both MIS-C and KD are characterized by profound inflammation and inflammatory vasculopathy, further study is needed to determine whether they are distinct immunopathogenic disorders.}, } @article {pmid37171074, year = {2023}, author = {Alber, S and Tanabe, K and Tregear, H and Hennigan, A and Gilliland, S}, title = {Year in Review 2022: Noteworthy Literature in Cardiothoracic Critical Care.}, journal = {Seminars in cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {10892532231176854}, doi = {10.1177/10892532231176854}, pmid = {37171074}, issn = {1940-5596}, abstract = {The past year in critical care medicine was notable for ongoing sequelae of the COVID-19 pandemic, including nationwide shortages and critical care demand in many regions in excess of usual operating capacity. Despite these challenges, evidence-based medicine and investigations into the optimal management of the critically ill continued to be at the forefront. This article is a collection of studies published in 2022 which are specifically relevant to cardiothoracic critical care. These noteworthy publications add to the existing literature across a broad spectrum of topics, from optimal timing of mechanical circulatory support (MCS), delirium prevention, updates in nutrition guidelines, alternative defibrillation techniques, novel ventilator management, and observing the downstream psychological impact of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy.}, } @article {pmid37170902, year = {2023}, author = {Wong, WLE and Sually, D and Hidalgo-Mazzei, D and Quoidbach, V and Simon, J and Boyer, P and Strawbridge, R and Young, AH}, title = {The effects of COVID-19 on European healthcare provision for working-age adults with major depressive disorder.}, journal = {European psychiatry : the journal of the Association of European Psychiatrists}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-28}, doi = {10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.2407}, pmid = {37170902}, issn = {1778-3585}, } @article {pmid37170283, year = {2023}, author = {Roever, L and Cavalcante, BRR and Improta-Caria, AC}, title = {Long-term consequences of COVID-19 on mental health and the impact of a physically active lifestyle: a narrative review.}, journal = {Annals of general psychiatry}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {19}, pmid = {37170283}, issn = {1744-859X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Respiratory viruses damage not only the upper respiratory tract in humans, but also several different organs such as the brain. Some of the neurological consequences of COVID-19 reported are anosmia, headache, stroke, declined cognitive function, and impaired mental health, among others. People who had COVID-19 have a higher risk of sequelae in the central nervous system (CNS). However, it is not known which are all possible sequelae and how long will last the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on behavioral patterns and quality of life.

AIM: We intend to address the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on mental health and the relevance of physical exercise during the pandemic.

METHODS: We conducted a literature search using PubMed to find the articles that were related to these themes.

RESULTS: We found 23,489 papers initially, and then we applied the inclusion/exclusion criteria to narrow down our search to 3617 articles and selected 1380 eligible articles after a thorough reading of titles and abstracts. The findings indicated that COVID-19 impacted general mental health and led many not only hospitalized patients to develop cognitive decline, memory impairment, anxiety, sleep alterations, and depressive-like behavior. Furthermore, the fear of vaccines and their effects had negatively affected mental health and directly impacted mortality rates in unvaccinated COVID-19 patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Preventive measures must be undertaken, such as the vaccination of the entire population, vaccination hesitancy discouragement by creating awareness among individuals, and people's engagement in a physically active lifestyle, since being physically active is a low-cost and effective measure to restore or inhibit the negative outcomes from COVID-19 on mental health.}, } @article {pmid37169698, year = {2023}, author = {Garraud, O and Watier, H}, title = {Is there any revival of the use of plasma therapy or neutralizing convalescent antibody therapy to treat SARS-CoV-2 variants and are we rethinking preparedness plans?.}, journal = {Transfusion and apheresis science : official journal of the World Apheresis Association : official journal of the European Society for Haemapheresis}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {103726}, pmid = {37169698}, issn = {1473-0502}, } @article {pmid37169438, year = {2023}, author = {Sautter, RL}, title = {Regulatory Approach to Point-of-Care/At-Home Testing in the United States.}, journal = {Clinics in laboratory medicine}, volume = {43}, number = {2}, pages = {145-154}, doi = {10.1016/j.cll.2023.02.001}, pmid = {37169438}, issn = {1557-9832}, abstract = {The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) classifications were activated in the 1990s in partnership with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Food and Drug Administration and included waived, moderate, and high complexity testing. The waived section of CLIA certificates allows laboratories to perform testing of analytes and methods of samples by the Food and Drug Administration. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many molecular or antigen laboratory testing methods for COVID-19 virus were quickly approved by emergency use authorization. Waived testing is now done in highly complex, moderately complex, and waived testing laboratories, and some at-home testing.}, } @article {pmid37169437, year = {2023}, author = {Bashir, H and Yildiz, M and Cafardi, J and Bhatia, A and Garcia, S and Henry, TD and Chung, ES}, title = {A Review of Heart Failure in Patients with COVID-19.}, journal = {Heart failure clinics}, volume = {19}, number = {2S}, pages = {e1-e8}, doi = {10.1016/j.hfc.2023.03.002}, pmid = {37169437}, issn = {1551-7136}, abstract = {The interplay of COVID-19 and heart failure is complex and involves direct and indirect effects. Patients with existing heart failure develop more severe COVID-19 symptoms and have worse clinical outcomes. Pandemic-related policies and protocols have negatively affected care for cardiovascular conditions and established hospital protocols, which is particularly important for patients with heart failure.}, } @article {pmid37168925, year = {2023}, author = {AlQadheeb, N and AlMubayedh, H and AlBadrani, S and Salam, A and AlOmar, M and AlAswad, A and AlMualim, M and AlQamariat, Z and AlHubail, R}, title = {Impact of common comorbidities on antimicrobial consumption and mortality amongst critically ill COVID-19 patients: A retrospective two center study in Saudi Arabia.}, journal = {Clinical infection in practice}, volume = {19}, number = {}, pages = {100229}, pmid = {37168925}, issn = {2590-1702}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine the association between common comorbidities, ICU mortality and antimicrobial consumption among critically ill COVID 19 patients in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS: A retrospective observational study of patients admitted to the ICU from March 1st, 2020, through August 31st, 2021. We excluded patients who stayed <24 h in the ICU and with no confirmed COVID-19 PCR testing.

RESULTS: Of the 976 screened ICU patients, 848 were included. While there was no difference in mortality between patients with and without comorbidities, those with at least one comorbidity had a higher severity of illness (p = 0.013). Compared to survivors, non-survivors were more likely to require mechanical ventilation and vasopressor support (P < 0.001). Almost all patients received at least one antimicrobial therapy. Predictors independently associated with ICU mortality were: older age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.04), vancomycin use (AOR, 2.69; 95% [CI], 1.65-4.37), linezolid use (AOR, 2.65; 95% [CI], 1.65-4.04), sepsis or septic shock (AOR, 6.39; 95% [CI], 3.68-11.08), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) (AOR, 2.51; 95% [CI], 1.61-3.92) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) (AOR, 2.03; 95% [CI], 1.61-3.92).

CONCLUSION: Older age, vancomycin and linezolid use, sepsis/septic shock, AKI, and ARDS were negative prognostic factors in critically ill COVID-19 patients. More studies are needed to evaluate the outcomes of survived critically ill patients in relation to their vaccination status.}, } @article {pmid37168860, year = {2023}, author = {Matarazzo, L and Bettencourt, PJG}, title = {mRNA vaccines: a new opportunity for malaria, tuberculosis and HIV.}, journal = {Frontiers in immunology}, volume = {14}, number = {}, pages = {1172691}, doi = {10.3389/fimmu.2023.1172691}, pmid = {37168860}, issn = {1664-3224}, abstract = {The success of the first licensed mRNA-based vaccines against COVID-19 has created a widespread interest on mRNA technology for vaccinology. As expected, the number of mRNA vaccines in preclinical and clinical development increased exponentially since 2020, including numerous improvements in mRNA formulation design, delivery methods and manufacturing processes. However, the technology faces challenges such as the cost of raw materials, the lack of standardization, and delivery optimization. MRNA technology may provide a solution to some of the emerging infectious diseases as well as the deadliest hard-to-treat infectious diseases malaria, tuberculosis, and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), for which an effective vaccine, easily deployable to endemic areas is urgently needed. In this review, we discuss the functional structure, design, manufacturing processes and delivery methods of mRNA vaccines. We provide an up-to-date overview of the preclinical and clinical development of mRNA vaccines against infectious diseases, and discuss the immunogenicity, efficacy and correlates of protection of mRNA vaccines, with particular focus on research and development of mRNA vaccines against malaria, tuberculosis and HIV.}, } @article {pmid37168726, year = {2023}, author = {Wihandani, DM and Purwanta, MLA and Mulyani, WRW and Putra, IWAS and Supadmanaba, IGP}, title = {New-onset diabetes in COVID-19: The molecular pathogenesis.}, journal = {BioMedicine}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {3-12}, doi = {10.37796/2211-8039.1389}, pmid = {37168726}, issn = {2211-8020}, abstract = {Diabetes mellitus (DM) is still a challenging metabolic disease worldwide. In the current situation, the world is facing a COVID-19 pandemic due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. DM is one of the comorbid conditions that can worsen the severity of the COVID-19 condition. Surprisingly, SARS-CoV-2 infection can induce new-onset diabetes, a condition in which acute hyperglycemia occurs and may develop into a complication in nondiabetic patients. Angiotensinconverting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a crucial entry factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection. ACE2 will bind to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, potentially initiating a damaging process in many tissues in the human body, including metabolic tissues. This mechanism suggests a potential role of ACE2 in the pathogenesis of diabetes since ACE2 has been proven to localize in essential metabolic tissues, one of which is the acini and islets part of the pancreas. This interrelated ACE2 in COVID-19 and DM is thought of as the mechanism that induces new-onset diabetes in COVID-19 patients. This review will thoroughly describe the current findings and theories regarding the molecular mechanism of SARS-CoV-2-induced new-onset diabetes and the possible therapeutic intervention.}, } @article {pmid37168413, year = {2023}, author = {Tolu-Akinnawo, O and Adusei Poku, F and Elimihele, T and League, M and Adkins, CF and Okafor, H}, title = {Acute Cardiovascular Complications of COVID-19: A Systematic Review.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {5}, pages = {e38576}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.38576}, pmid = {37168413}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Since the pandemic in 2019, coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has continued to be linked with a variety of organ systems and complications. While it is generally considered a respiratory disease, its link with the heart is widely discussed in the literature. This article focuses on the acute cardiovascular complications of COVID-19 and the possible predictors of these complications. Our study included 97 articles (58 case reports, eight case series, 23 retrospective cohort studies, five prospective cohort studies, and three cross-sectional studies). Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain COVID-19-induced cardiovascular complications, with cytokine-induced inflammation and direct cardiac damage noted as the significant focus. Patients with underlying cardiovascular complications such as hypertension and diabetes were noted to be at increased risk of acute cardiovascular complications, as well as an increased risk of severe disease and death. Also, acute myocardial infarction and arrhythmias were two of the most common acute cardiovascular complications noted in our review. Other acute cardiovascular complications are myocarditis, takotsubo syndrome, acute thromboembolic events, and pericardial complications. This article provides an updated review of acute cardiovascular complications of COVID-19, its pathogenesis, and risk stratification and emphasizes the need for high suspicion in patients with underlying cardiovascular risk factors.}, } @article {pmid37168192, year = {2023}, author = {Md Noh, MSF and Abdul Rashid, AM and Mohd Zain, NR}, title = {The Spectrum of Vessel Wall Imaging (VWI) Findings in COVID-19-Associated Neurological Syndromes: A Review.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37296}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.37296}, pmid = {37168192}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Since the start of the pandemic, there have been extensive studies from all over the world reporting on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated neurological syndromes. Although initially thought of as primarily a respiratory pathogen, it became increasingly clear that the virus does have other systemic manifestations, including on the neurological system. Since then, the discovery of the many neuroimaging features of COVID-19-associated neurological syndromes have puzzled researchers and physicians in terms of interpretation, and how best to manage these findings to benefit patients. We sought to review the neuroimaging findings of COVID-19-associated neurological syndromes, particularly the vessel wall imaging (VWI) features, in the hope of finding a common feature that would better guide physicians in terms of further management of this group of patients. We will also look into the potential pitfalls of interpreting the VWI findings in these patients.}, } @article {pmid37164394, year = {2023}, author = {Nguyen, NI and Eandi, C and Guex-Crosier, Y}, title = {Central Retinal Vein Occlusion after COVID-19 Infection.}, journal = {Klinische Monatsblatter fur Augenheilkunde}, volume = {240}, number = {4}, pages = {509-513}, doi = {10.1055/a-2040-3653}, pmid = {37164394}, issn = {1439-3999}, mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Retinal Vein Occlusion/diagnosis/drug therapy/etiology ; *Papilledema/diagnosis/drug therapy/etiology ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Ranibizumab ; Intravitreal Injections ; Tomography, Optical Coherence/methods ; Fluorescein Angiography/methods ; Angiogenesis Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Central retinal vein occlusions are not well-known complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We describe a case of central retinal vein occlusion secondary to COVID-19, and a review of the literature was performed.

HISTORY AND SIGNS: A 47-year-old woman with no underlying ocular or medical condition presented to the hospital complaining about sudden onset of multiple scotomas in her left eye. A COVID-19 infection was confirmed 2 days previously by a PCR test that was performed 2 days after the onset of symptoms. Medical history revealed no risk factors and no oral contraception. Her best-corrected visual acuity was 1.0 in the right eye and 0.04 in the left eye. Clinical exam showed a left relative afferent pupillary defect and a nasally localized papilledema on fundoscopy of the left eye. Multiple dot and blot hemorrhages were also present. Optical coherence tomography revealed cystoid macular edema and paracentral acute middle maculopathy. The results of the fluoresceine angiography were consistent with central retinal vein occlusion. Laboratory workup later revealed an elevated fibrinogen level, corresponding to the COVID-19-induced hypercoagulable state. No other prothrombotic conditions were found. The patient immediately received an intravitreal injection of Lucentis (ranibizumab) after diagnosis. Complete resolution of the retinal hemorrhages and papilledema was observed 1.5 months after treatment and the final visual acuity was 1.25 in the left eye.

CONCLUSION: Coagulation abnormalities are frequently observed in infectious diseases such as COVID-19 infection and the resulting prothrombotic state can sometimes lead to retinal vascular complications, including central retinal vein occlusion, irrespective of the presence of other classical risk factors. The consideration of this information could help clinicians establish a prompt diagnosis and therefore appropriate treatment, which could hopefully lead to complete healing of retinal lesions.}, } @article {pmid37134095, year = {2023}, author = {Chudziński, P and Cyfert, S and Dyduch, W and Koubaa, S and Zastempowski, M}, title = {Strategic and entrepreneurial abilities: Surviving the crisis across countries during the Covid-19 pandemic.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {e0285045}, pmid = {37134095}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Europe ; Morocco/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Poland ; }, abstract = {This paper seeks to identify organisational abilities that influence the company's survival during crises. To address this issue, first-through literature review-we identified five groups of crucial organisational abilities that companies pursue during the crisis, i.e., strategic, technological, collaboration, entrepreneurial and relational. We have also identified four objectives that relate to surviving the crisis. Next, we have scrutinised 226 companies from two sides of the world, Poland (Europe) and Morocco (Africa), during the Covid-19 crisis. Quantitative analysis using Structural Equations Modelling demonstrated that surviving during a crisis depends mostly on strategic and entrepreneurial abilities such as the ability to shift resources quickly, organise the work in the firm effectively and plan strategically, as well as diversify its products and services perceived as critical.}, } @article {pmid37088936, year = {2023}, author = {Choudhry, HS and Burton, C and Garcia, DJ and Kumarapuram, S and Parikh, A and Eraky, F and Choudhury, T and Shaikh, A and Sadek, HS and Dastjerdi, MH}, title = {Female authorship trends and the effect of COVID-19 on cataract and refractive surgery literature.}, journal = {Journal of cataract and refractive surgery}, volume = {49}, number = {5}, pages = {531-537}, doi = {10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000001112}, pmid = {37088936}, issn = {1873-4502}, mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Authorship ; *Cataract ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Ophthalmology ; Prospective Studies ; Retrospective Studies ; }, abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate whether gender barriers persist specifically in the cataract and refractive surgery (CRS) literature. In addition, no literature exists investigating the long-term effect of COVID-19 on female authorship in ophthalmology past 2020.

SETTING: Scopus 2015 to 2022.

DESIGN: Retrospective data review.

METHODS: Articles published in the Journal of Refractive Surgery and the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery were recorded from January 2015 to February 2022 from Scopus. Articles with only 1 author or where gender could not be identified were excluded. The first author (FA) gender, senior author (SA) gender, affiliated country, type of literature, and number of citations were collected. Pearson chi-squared tests with phi coefficients and multivariate logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS: 3153 articles were included in analysis. There were 910 works with female FAs and 648 with female SAs. Gender did not predict publishing in one journal over the other (P > .050). Women made up less than 30% of authorship of all types of literature, except for prospective/observational studies as FA (31.3%). Compared with before 2020, female FAs from 2020 onward were associated with increased retrospective analysis (phi = 0.072, P = .030) and letters/editorials (phi = 0.134, P < .001) but decreased case reports (phi = 0.087, P = .009) and "others" (phi = -0.164, P < .001). Similar associations were observed for female SAs. Females were more likely to publish in Asian countries. Female SAs predicted an increased likelihood of female FAs (odds ratio, 1.401, 95% CI, 1.165-1.684, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS: Gender disparities exist in authorship of the CRS literature. COVID-19 has altered the types of literature published by women, but men still publish most of all types of CRS research.}, } @article {pmid37015285, year = {2023}, author = {Alghader, MRM and Valvi, D and de la Hoz, RE}, title = {Transmission and Risk Factors of COVID-19 among Health Care Workers.}, journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine}, volume = {44}, number = {3}, pages = {340-348}, doi = {10.1055/s-0043-1766118}, pmid = {37015285}, issn = {1098-9048}, support = {P30 ES023515/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Retrospective Studies ; Prospective Studies ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Infectious Disease Transmission, Patient-to-Professional/prevention & control ; Health Personnel ; Risk Factors ; }, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a significant occupational risk factor to health care workers (HCWs). As in previous events, this occupational risk amplifies and compounds the adverse impact of the pandemic. We conducted a narrative review summarizing risk factors associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission in HCWs. We searched for original observational studies (including case-control, cross-sectional, prospective and retrospective cohorts) using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 22 articles were reviewed, including eligible English articles published between April 2020 and May 2022. Job category, work environment, personal protective equipment (PPE) noncompliance, lack of PPE awareness and training, unvaccinated status, and competing community and household exposures were identified as risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 transmission among HCWs. Effective measures to protect HCWs from SARS-CoV-2 need to account for the identified occupational risk factors. Identifying and understanding COVID-19 risk factors among HCWs must be considered a public health priority for policy makers to mitigate occupational and community transmission in current and future epidemics.}, } @article {pmid36917102, year = {2023}, author = {Gallant, AJ and Harding, A and Johnson, C and Steenbeek, A and Curran, JA}, title = {Identifying H1N1 and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy or refusal among health care providers: a scoping review.}, journal = {JBI evidence synthesis}, volume = {21}, number = {5}, pages = {913-951}, pmid = {36917102}, issn = {2689-8381}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Swine ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; *Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Health Personnel/education ; *Vaccines ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to describe and map the evidence on COVID-19 and H1N1 vaccine hesitancy or refusal by physicians, nurses, and pharmacists in North America, the United Kingdom and the European Union, and Australia.

INTRODUCTION: Since 2009, we have experienced two pandemics: H1N1 "swine flu" and COVID-19. While severity and transmissibility of these viruses varied, vaccination has been a critical component of bringing both pandemics under control. However, uptake of these vaccines has been affected by vaccine hesitancy and refusal. The vaccination behaviors of health care providers, including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, are of particular interest as they have been priority populations to receive both H1N1 and COVID-19 vaccinations. Their vaccination views could affect the vaccination decisions of their patients.

INCLUSION CRITERIA: Studies were eligible for inclusion if they identified reasons for COVID-19 or H1N1 vaccine hesitancy or refusal among physicians, nurses, or pharmacists from the included countries. Published and unpublished literature were eligible for inclusion. Previous reviews were excluded; however, the reference lists of relevant reviews were searched to identify additional studies for inclusion.

METHODS: A search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Academic Search Premier databases was conducted April 28, 2021, to identify English-language literature published from 2009 to 2021. Gray literature and citation screening were also conducted to identify additional relevant literature. Titles, abstracts, and eligible full-text articles were reviewed in duplicate by 2 trained reviewers. Data were extracted in duplicate using a structured extraction tool developed for the review. Conflicts were resolved through discussion or with a third team member. Data were synthesized using narrative and tabular summaries.

RESULTS: In total, 83 articles were included in the review. Studies were conducted primarily across the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. The majority of articles (n=70) used cross-sectional designs to examine knowledge, attitudes, and uptake of H1N1 (n=61) or COVID-19 (n=22) vaccines. Physicians, medical students, nurses, and nursing students were common participants in the studies; however, only 8 studies included pharmacists in their sample. Across health care settings, most studies were conducted in urban, academic teaching hospitals, with 1 study conducted in a rural hospital setting. Concerns about vaccine safety, vaccine side effects, and perceived low risk of contracting H1N1 or COVID-19 were the most common reasons for vaccine hesitancy or refusal across both vaccines.

CONCLUSIONS: With increased interest and attention on vaccines in recent years, intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, more research that examines vaccine hesitancy or refusal across different health care settings and health care providers is warranted. Future work should aim to utilize more qualitative and mixed methods research designs to capture the personal perspectives of vaccine hesitancy and refusal, and consider collecting data beyond the common urban and academic health care settings identified in this review.}, } @article {pmid36719785, year = {2023}, author = {Crook, H and Ramirez, A and Hosseini, A and Vavougyios, G and Lehmann, C and Bruchfeld, J and Schneider, A and D'Avossa, G and Lo Re, V and Salmoiraghi, A and Mukaetova-Ladinska, E and Katshu, M and Boneschi, FM and Håkansson, K and Geerlings, M and Pracht, E and Ruiz, A and Jansen, JFA and Snyder, H and Kivipelto, M and Edison, P}, title = {European Working Group on SARS-CoV-2: Current Understanding, Unknowns, and Recommendations on the Neurological Complications of COVID-19.}, journal = {Brain connectivity}, volume = {13}, number = {4}, pages = {178-210}, doi = {10.1089/brain.2022.0058}, pmid = {36719785}, issn = {2158-0022}, support = {MR/T005580/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; }, abstract = {Background: The emergence of COVID-19 was rapidly followed by infection and the deaths of millions of people across the globe. With much of the research and scientific advancement rightly focused on reducing the burden of severe and critical acute COVID-19 infection, the long-term effects endured by those who survived the acute infection has been previously overlooked. Now, an appreciation for the post-COVID-19 condition, including its neurological manifestations, is growing, although there remain many unknowns regarding the etiology and risk factors of the condition, as well as how to effectively diagnose and treat it. Methods: Here, drawing upon the experiences and expertise of the clinicians and academics of the European working group on COVID-19, we have reviewed the current literature to provide a comprehensive overview of the neurological sequalae of the post-COVID-19 condition. Results: In this review, we provide a summary of the neurological symptoms associated with the post-COVID-19 condition, before discussing the possible mechanisms which may underly and manifest these symptoms. Following this, we explore the risk factors for developing neurological symptoms as a result of COVID-19 and the post-COVID-19 condition, as well as how COVID-19 infection may itself be a risk factor for the development of neurological disease in the future. Lastly, we evaluate how the post-COVID condition could be accurately diagnosed and effectively treated, including examples of the current guidelines, clinical outcomes, and tools that have been developed to aid in this process, as well as addressing the protection provided by COVID-19 vaccines against the post-COVID-19 condition. Conclusions: Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the neurological sequalae of the post-COVID-19 condition. Impact statement With our understanding of the neurological complications of the post-COVID-19 condition currently lacking sufficient depth, this review aimed at highlighting the current knowns and unknowns of the post-COVID-19 condition. In this review, we draw upon the experiences and expertise of the clinicians and academics of the European working group on COVID-19, as well as explore the current published literature, to evaluate a range of topics associated with the neurological complications of the post-COVID-19 condition. As a result, we have provided a comprehensive review of the topic. The European Working Group on SARS-CoV-2 Many essential questions surrounding COVID-19 remain unanswered, including its neurological complications and associated sequalae. In this review, we aim at identifying the current gaps in our understanding of post-COVID-19 neurological sequalae and suggest how future studies should be undertaken to fill these gaps. This review will draw upon the current biological and mechanistic understanding of COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 complications to discuss the clinically relevant aspects associated with the neurological manifestations of post-COVID-19 syndrome. From our discussions, the following questions were considered highly relevant for contemplation.}, } @article {pmid37167723, year = {2023}, author = {Kwapisz, D and Bogusławska, J}, title = {Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) in severe/critical COVID-19 adult patients.}, journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie}, volume = {163}, number = {}, pages = {114851}, doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114851}, pmid = {37167723}, issn = {1950-6007}, abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become a huge obstacle to the health system due to the high rate of contagion. It is postulated that intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) can lower the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-related inflammation and prevent the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The main advantages of IVIG treatment might be targeting cytokine storm in severe and critical COVID-19 by influences on complement, innate immune cells, effector T-cells, and Tregs. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs evaluating the safety and efficacy of IVIG in patients with severe/critical COVID-19 were performed. It seems that early administration of high-dose IVIG (in the acceleration phase of the disease) in severe or especially critical COVID-19 may be an effective therapeutic option, but there are no strong data to use it routinely. The results regarding mortality reduction are inconclusive. Additionally, IVIG treatment carries a risk of complications that should be considered when initiating treatment. However, given the COVID-19 mortality rate and limited therapeutic options, the use of IVIG is worth considering. This review summarizes the development and highlights recent advances in treatment with IVIG of severe/critically ill COVID-19 patients.}, } @article {pmid37167674, year = {2023}, author = {Jin, Y and Murray, L}, title = {Perinatal mental health and women's lived experience of the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review of the qualitative literature 2020-2021.}, journal = {Midwifery}, volume = {123}, number = {}, pages = {103706}, doi = {10.1016/j.midw.2023.103706}, pmid = {37167674}, issn = {1532-3099}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in global physical distancing restrictions and lockdown orders. Despite the clear documentation of increased mental distress amongst adult populations during the pandemic, there is limited evidence about the mental health challenges of people in the perinatal period (pregnancy, birth and postpartum). The aim of this review is to summarise the qualitative research about women's lived experience and emotional wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy was developed. Twenty peer-reviewed qualitative research articles published in English from January 1, 2020, to December 15, 2021, were included. Data synthesis outlined the evidence from common themes in a narrative format.

RESULTS: Themes during pregnancy included: (1) information seeking: anxiety and fear; (2) experiencing isolation and disruptions to my social support; (3) 'Going it alone' in pregnancy care; (4) anticipatory grieving and despair; (5) finding 'silver linings' in social restrictions. One key theme during birth was "birthing in a crisis". Themes during postpartum included: (1) isolating 'Early motherhood is much like lockdown'; (2) breastfeeding: triumphs and tribulations; (3) facing disruptions during postpartum care; (4) 'Affecting us for years to come' - COVID-19 was not the only trauma; (5) 'silver linings' during postpartum care.

CONCLUSIONS: This review provides important insights into how experiences of isolation, decreased social support and adaptions to maternity services affect women's mental health. Maternity services should consider how perinatal mental health support may be integrated into the care of women who may still be required to isolate or have reduced visitors during their perinatal care.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The restrictions and disruptions to maternity care due to the COVID-19 pandemic were likely to impact the mental health of women in the perinatal period (pregnancy, birth and postpartum). What is already known is that public health measures due to COVID-19 increased the prevalence of common perinatal mental disorders (CPMDs) and exacerbated common risk factors for CPMDs (i.e., poor social support).

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: The qualitative research with women in the perinatal period during the pandemic provides unique insights into how these events impacted perinatal mental and emotional health. In particular, the ways that global physical distancing measures and maternity care adaptations contributed to women's feelings of distress, isolation, and depression/despair. Silver linings such as more uninterrupted time with immediate family were also identified.}, } @article {pmid37167363, year = {2023}, author = {Fairweather, D and Beetler, DJ and Di Florio, DN and Musigk, N and Heidecker, B and Cooper, LT}, title = {COVID-19, Myocarditis and Pericarditis.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1302-1319}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.321878}, pmid = {37167363}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {Viral infections are a leading cause of myocarditis and pericarditis worldwide, conditions that frequently coexist. Myocarditis and pericarditis were some of the early comorbidities associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19. Many epidemiologic studies have been conducted since that time concluding that SARS-CoV-2 increased the incidence of myocarditis/pericarditis at least 15× over pre-COVID levels although the condition remains rare. The incidence of myocarditis pre-COVID was reported at 1 to 10 cases/100 000 individuals and with COVID ranging from 150 to 4000 cases/100 000 individuals. Before COVID-19, some vaccines were reported to cause myocarditis and pericarditis in rare cases, but the use of novel mRNA platforms led to a higher number of reported cases than with previous platforms providing new insight into potential pathogenic mechanisms. The incidence of COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis/pericarditis covers a large range depending on the vaccine platform, age, and sex examined. Importantly, the findings highlight that myocarditis occurs predominantly in male patients aged 12 to 40 years regardless of whether the cause was due to a virus-like SARS-CoV-2 or associated with a vaccine-a demographic that has been reported before COVID-19. This review discusses findings from COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis and pericarditis considering the known symptoms, diagnosis, management, treatment, and pathogenesis of disease that has been gleaned from clinical research and animal models. Sex differences in the immune response to COVID-19 are discussed, and theories for how mRNA vaccines could lead to myocarditis/pericarditis are proposed. Additionally, gaps in our understanding that need further research are raised.}, } @article {pmid37167362, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, RS and Loscalzo, J}, title = {Repurposing Drugs for the Treatment of COVID-19 and Its Cardiovascular Manifestations.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1374-1386}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.321879}, pmid = {37167362}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 leading to the ongoing global pandemic. Infected patients developed a range of respiratory symptoms, including respiratory failure, as well as other extrapulmonary complications. Multiple comorbidities, including hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic kidney diseases, are associated with the severity and increased mortality of COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 infection also causes a range of cardiovascular complications, including myocarditis, myocardial injury, heart failure, arrhythmias, acute coronary syndrome, and venous thromboembolism. Although a variety of methods have been developed and many clinical trials have been launched for drug repositioning for COVID-19, treatments that consider cardiovascular manifestations and cardiovascular disease comorbidities specifically are limited. In this review, we summarize recent advances in drug repositioning for COVID-19, including experimental drug repositioning, high-throughput drug screening, omics data-based, and network medicine-based computational drug repositioning, with particular attention on those drug treatments that consider cardiovascular manifestations of COVID-19. We discuss prospective opportunities and potential methods for repurposing drugs to treat cardiovascular complications of COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37167361, year = {2023}, author = {Tsai, EJ and Cˇiháková, D and Tucker, NR}, title = {Cell-Specific Mechanisms in the Heart of COVID-19 Patients.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1290-1301}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.321876}, pmid = {37167361}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {From the onset of the pandemic, evidence of cardiac involvement in acute COVID-19 abounded. Cardiac presentations ranged from arrhythmias to ischemia, myopericarditis/myocarditis, ventricular dysfunction to acute heart failure, and even cardiogenic shock. Elevated serum cardiac troponin levels were prevalent among hospitalized patients with COVID-19; the higher the magnitude of troponin elevation, the greater the COVID-19 illness severity and in-hospital death risk. Whether these consequences were due to direct SARS-CoV-2 infection of cardiac cells or secondary to inflammatory responses steered early cardiac autopsy studies. SARS-CoV-2 was reportedly detected in endothelial cells, cardiac myocytes, and within the extracellular space. However, findings were inconsistent and different methodologies had their limitations. Initial autopsy reports suggested that SARS-CoV-2 myocarditis was common, setting off studies to find and phenotype inflammatory infiltrates in the heart. Nonetheless, subsequent studies rarely detected myocarditis. Microthrombi, cardiomyocyte necrosis, and inflammatory infiltrates without cardiomyocyte damage were much more common. In vitro and ex vivo experimental platforms have assessed the cellular tropism of SARS-CoV-2 and elucidated mechanisms of viral entry into and replication within cardiac cells. Data point to pericytes as the primary target of SARS-CoV-2 in the heart. Infection of pericytes can account for the observed pericyte and endothelial cell death, innate immune response, and immunothrombosis commonly observed in COVID-19 hearts. These processes are bidirectional and synergistic, rendering a definitive order of events elusive. Single-cell/nucleus analyses of COVID-19 myocardial tissue and isolated cardiac cells have provided granular data about the cellular composition and cell type-specific transcriptomic signatures of COVID-19 and microthrombi-positive COVID-19 hearts. Still, much remains unknown and more in vivo studies are needed. This review seeks to provide an overview of the current understanding of COVID-19 cardiac pathophysiology. Cell type-specific mechanisms and the studies that provided such insights will be highlighted. Given the unprecedented pace of COVID-19 research, more mechanistic details are sure to emerge since the writing of this review. Importantly, our current knowledge offers significant clues about the cardiac pathophysiology of long COVID-19, the increased postrecovery risk of cardiac events, and thus, the future landscape of cardiovascular disease.}, } @article {pmid37167360, year = {2023}, author = {Sciaudone, A and Corkrey, H and Humphries, F and Koupenova, M}, title = {Platelets and SARS-CoV-2 During COVID-19: Immunity, Thrombosis, and Beyond.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1272-1289}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.321930}, pmid = {37167360}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {COVID-19 is characterized by dysregulated thrombosis and coagulation that can increase mortality in patients. Platelets are fast responders to pathogen presence, alerting the surrounding immune cells and contributing to thrombosis and intravascular coagulation. The SARS-CoV-2 genome has been found in platelets from patients with COVID-19, and its coverage varies according to the method of detection, suggesting direct interaction of the virus with these cells. Antibodies against Spike and Nucleocapsid have confirmed this platelet-viral interaction. This review discusses the immune, prothrombotic, and procoagulant characteristics of platelets observed in patients with COVID-19. We outline the direct and indirect interaction of platelets with SARS-CoV-2, the contribution of the virus to programmed cell death pathway activation in platelets and the consequent extracellular vesicle release. We discuss platelet activation and immunothrombosis in patients with COVID-19, the effect of Spike on platelets, and possible activation of platelets by classical platelet activation triggers as well as contribution of platelets to complement activation. As COVID-19-mediated thrombosis and coagulation are still not well understood in vivo, we discuss available murine models and mouse adaptable strains.}, } @article {pmid37167359, year = {2023}, author = {Boulos, PK and Freeman, SV and Henry, TD and Mahmud, E and Messenger, JC}, title = {Interaction of COVID-19 With Common Cardiovascular Disorders.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1259-1271}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.321952}, pmid = {37167359}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {The onset and widespread dissemination of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 in late 2019 impacted the world in a way not seen since the 1918 H1N1 pandemic, colloquially known as the Spanish Flu. Much like the Spanish Flu, which was observed to disproportionately impact young adults, it became clear in the early days of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that certain groups appeared to be at higher risk for severe illness once infected. One such group that immediately came to the forefront and garnered international attention was patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease. Here, we examine the available literature describing the interaction of COVID-19 with a myriad of cardiovascular conditions and diseases, paying particular attention to patients diagnosed with arrythmias, heart failure, and coronary artery disease. We further discuss the association of acute COVID-19 with de novo cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction due to coronary thrombosis, myocarditis, and new onset arrhythmias. We will evaluate various biochemical theories to explain these findings, including possible mechanisms of direct myocardial injury caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 virus at the cellular level. Finally, we will discuss the strategies employed by numerous groups and governing bodies within the cardiovascular disease community to address the unprecedented challenges posed to the care of our most vulnerable patients, including heart transplant recipients, end-stage heart failure patients, and patients suffering from acute coronary syndromes, during the early days and height of the COVID-19 pandemic.}, } @article {pmid37167358, year = {2023}, author = {Singh, TK and Zidar, DA and McCrae, K and Highland, KB and Englund, K and Cameron, SJ and Chung, MK}, title = {A Post-Pandemic Enigma: The Cardiovascular Impact of Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1358-1373}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.322228}, pmid = {37167358}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {COVID-19 has become the first modern-day pandemic of historic proportion, affecting >600 million individuals worldwide and causing >6.5 million deaths. While acute infection has had devastating consequences, postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to be a pandemic of its own, impacting up to one-third of survivors and often causing symptoms suggestive of cardiovascular phenomena. This review will highlight the suspected pathophysiology of postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2, its influence on the cardiovascular system, and potential treatment strategies.}, } @article {pmid37167357, year = {2023}, author = {Koupenova, M and Chung, MK and Bristow, MR}, title = {COVID-19 and the Cardiovascular System: Requiem for a Medical Minotaur.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1255-1258}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.322935}, pmid = {37167357}, issn = {1524-4571}, } @article {pmid37167356, year = {2023}, author = {Satta, S and Rockwood, SJ and Wang, K and Wang, S and Mozneb, M and Arzt, M and Hsiai, TK and Sharma, A}, title = {Microfluidic Organ-Chips and Stem Cell Models in the Fight Against COVID-19.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1405-1424}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.321877}, pmid = {37167356}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, the virus underlying COVID-19, has now been recognized to cause multiorgan disease with a systemic effect on the host. To effectively combat SARS-CoV-2 and the subsequent development of COVID-19, it is critical to detect, monitor, and model viral pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss recent advancements in microfluidics, organ-on-a-chip, and human stem cell-derived models to study SARS-CoV-2 infection in the physiological organ microenvironment, together with their limitations. Microfluidic-based detection methods have greatly enhanced the rapidity, accessibility, and sensitivity of viral detection from patient samples. Engineered organ-on-a-chip models that recapitulate in vivo physiology have been developed for many organ systems to study viral pathology. Human stem cell-derived models have been utilized not only to model viral tropism and pathogenesis in a physiologically relevant context but also to screen for effective therapeutic compounds. The combination of all these platforms, along with future advancements, may aid to identify potential targets and develop novel strategies to counteract COVID-19 pathogenesis.}, } @article {pmid37167355, year = {2023}, author = {Altman, NL and Berning, AA and Mann, SC and Quaife, RA and Gill, EA and Auerbach, SR and Campbell, TB and Bristow, MR}, title = {Vaccination-Associated Myocarditis and Myocardial Injury.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1338-1357}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.321881}, pmid = {37167355}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-associated myocarditis/myocardial injury should be evaluated in the contexts of COVID-19 infection, other types of viral myocarditis, and other vaccine-associated cardiac disorders. COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocardial injury can be caused by an inflammatory immune cell infiltrate, but other etiologies such as microvascular thrombosis are also possible. The clinical diagnosis is typically based on symptoms and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Endomyocardial biopsy is confirmatory for myocarditis, but may not show an inflammatory infiltrate because of rapid resolution or a non-inflammatory etiology. Myocarditis associated with SARS-COVID-19 vaccines occurs primarily with mRNA platform vaccines, which are also the most effective. In persons aged >16 or >12 years the myocarditis estimated crude incidences after the first 2 doses of BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 are approximately 1.9 and 3.5 per 100 000 individuals, respectively. These rates equate to excess incidences above control populations of approximately 1.2 (BNT162b2) and 1.9 (mRNA-1273) per 100 000 persons, which are lower than the myocarditis rate for smallpox but higher than that for influenza vaccines. In the studies that have included mRNA vaccine and SARS-COVID-19 myocarditis measured by the same methodology, the incidence rate was increased by 3.5-fold over control in COVID-19 compared with 1.5-fold for BNT162b2 and 6.2-fold for mRNA-1273. However, mortality and major morbidity are less and recovery is faster with mRNA vaccine-associated myocarditis compared to COVID-19 infection. The reasons for this include vaccine-associated myocarditis having a higher incidence in young adults and adolescents, typically no involvement of other organs in vaccine-associated myocarditis, and based on comparisons to non-COVID viral myocarditis an inherently more benign clinical course.}, } @article {pmid37167354, year = {2023}, author = {Holby, SN and Richardson, TL and Laws, JL and McLaren, TA and Soslow, JH and Baker, MT and Dendy, JM and Clark, DE and Hughes, SG}, title = {Multimodality Cardiac Imaging in COVID.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1387-1404}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.321882}, pmid = {37167354}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {Infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID, is associated with numerous potential secondary complications. Global efforts have been dedicated to understanding the myriad potential cardiovascular sequelae which may occur during acute infection, convalescence, or recovery. Because patients often present with nonspecific symptoms and laboratory findings, cardiac imaging has emerged as an important tool for the discrimination of pulmonary and cardiovascular complications of this disease. The clinician investigating a potential COVID-related complication must account not only for the relative utility of various cardiac imaging modalities but also for the risk of infectious exposure to staff and other patients. Extraordinary clinical and scholarly efforts have brought the international medical community closer to a consensus on the appropriate indications for diagnostic cardiac imaging during this protracted pandemic. In this review, we summarize the existing literature and reference major societal guidelines to provide an overview of the indications and utility of echocardiography, nuclear imaging, cardiac computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis of cardiovascular complications of COVID.}, } @article {pmid37167353, year = {2023}, author = {Chappell, MC}, title = {Renin-Angiotensin System and Sex Differences in COVID-19: A Critical Assessment.}, journal = {Circulation research}, volume = {132}, number = {10}, pages = {1320-1337}, doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.321883}, pmid = {37167353}, issn = {1524-4571}, abstract = {The current epidemic of corona virus disease (COVID-19) has resulted in an immense health burden that became the third leading cause of death and potentially contributed to a decline in life expectancy in the United States. The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 binds to the surface-bound peptidase angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2, EC 3.4.17.23) leading to tissue infection and viral replication. ACE2 is an important enzymatic component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) expressed in the lung and other organs. The peptidase regulates the levels of the peptide hormones Ang II and Ang-(1-7), which have distinct and opposing actions to one another, as well as other cardiovascular peptides. A potential consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 infection is reduced ACE2 activity by internalization of the viral-ACE2 complex and subsequent activation of the RAS (higher ratio of Ang II:Ang-[1-7]) that may exacerbate the acute inflammatory events in COVID-19 patients and possibly contribute to the effects of long COVID-19. Moreover, COVID-19 patients present with an array of autoantibodies to various components of the RAS including the peptide Ang II, the enzyme ACE2, and the AT1 AT2 and Mas receptors. Greater disease severity is also evident in male COVID-19 patients, which may reflect underlying sex differences in the regulation of the 2 distinct functional arms of the RAS. The current review provides a critical evaluation of the evidence for an activated RAS in COVID-19 subjects and whether this system contributes to the greater severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 infection in males as compared with females.}, } @article {pmid37166813, year = {2023}, author = {Kölch, MG and Reis, O and Ulbrich, L and Schepker, R}, title = {[COVID-19 and Psychiatric Disorders in Minors: Changes in Inpatient Treatment According to Hospital Statistics].}, journal = {Zeitschrift fur Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1024/1422-4917/a000935}, pmid = {37166813}, issn = {1422-4917}, abstract = {COVID-19 and Psychiatric Disorders in Minors: Changes in Inpatient Treatment According to Hospital Statistics Abstract: Increased rates of psychiatric disorders and psychiatric emergencies in children and adolescents stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic have been reported, with more children and adolescents suffering from internalizing disorders. This study analyzes whether the increased rates led to increased rates of inpatient treatment in child and adolescent psychiatric and pediatric hospitals in Germany as well as a change in diagnoses of the treated patients. We analyzed routine hospital data ("InEK" data, § 21 KHG data files) from a prepandemic (2019) and a pandemic (2021) half-year regarding changes in the number of cases, diagnoses, and length of stay (LoS) in child and adolescent psychiatry and pediatrics. We also investigated the development of psychiatric emergencies in minors. We found an increase in internalizing problems (depression, anorexia nervosa, trauma-related disorders) and a decrease in externalizing problems among the admitted psychiatric inpatients. Further, we observed a halving of cases treated for alcohol intoxication. However, we discovered no change for the frequency of psychiatric emergency treatments nationwide. A more detailed analysis revealed that, in areas with a low number of child and adolescent psychiatry inpatient beds, emergency care was prioritized and LoS decreased, whereas in areas with a fair bed-to-inhabitant ratio among minors, there was a trend toward increased LoS, also in pediatric departments. We recommend continued monitoring of inpatient care after the pandemic, with special attention paid to underprivileged children and adolescents such as those with externalizing problems.}, } @article {pmid37166622, year = {2023}, author = {Achtyes, ED and Glenn, T and Monteith, S and Geddes, JR and Whybrow, PC and Martini, J and Bauer, M}, title = {Telepsychiatry in an Era of Digital Mental Health Startups.}, journal = {Current psychiatry reports}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37166622}, issn = {1535-1645}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Telepsychiatry practiced by psychiatrists is evidence-based, regulated, private, and effective in diverse settings. The use of telemedicine has grown since the COVID-19 pandemic as people routinely obtain more healthcare services online. At the same time, there has been a rapid increase in the number of digital mental health startups that offer various services including online therapy and access to prescription medications. These digital mental health firms advertise directly to the consumer primarily through digital advertising. The purpose of this narrative review is to contrast traditional telepsychiatry and the digital mental health market related to online therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS: In contrast to standard telepsychiatry, most of the digital mental health startups are unregulated, have unproven efficacy, and raise concerns related to self-diagnosis, self-medicating, and inappropriate prescribing. The role of digital mental health firms for people with serious mental illness has not been determined. There are inadequate privacy controls for the digital mental health firms, including for online therapy. We live in an age where there is widespread admiration for technology entrepreneurs and increasing emphasis on the role of the patient as a consumer. Yet, the business practices of digital mental health startups may compromise patient safety for profits. There is a need to address issues with the digital mental health startups and to educate patients about the differences between standard medical care and digital mental health products.}, } @article {pmid37166175, year = {2023}, author = {Akbari, M and Seydavi, M and Babaeifard, M and Firoozabadi, MA and Nikčević, AV and Spada, MM}, title = {Psychometric properties and psychological correlates of the COVID-19 Anxiety Syndrome Scale: A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Clinical psychology & psychotherapy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/cpp.2861}, pmid = {37166175}, issn = {1099-0879}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) has led to the demise of millions of people worldwide; additionally, it has resulted in a significant economic and mental health burden. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, various measures have been constructed to evaluate pandemic-related fear and anxiety. The COVID-19 Anxiety Syndrome Scale (C-19ASS) is a promising measure that assesses coping strategies (e.g., avoidance, checking, worrying and threat monitoring), termed 'COVID-19 Anxiety Syndrome', in response to COVID-19 fear and anxiety. The measure has been broadly welcomed, leading to its use in Brazil (Portuguese), China, Greece, Indonesia, the Philippines, Iran (Farsi), Italy, Saudi Arabia (Arabic), Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States. To gain a better understanding of the relevance of the COVID-19 Anxiety Syndrome, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the psychological correlates and psychometric properties of the C-19ASS. Through the analysis of a total of 17,789 individuals (age range 19-70; female = 33%-85%), the C-19ASS demonstrated a consistent factor structure, measurement invariance across gender and acceptable reliabilities. Furthermore, a significant association with COVID-19 anxiety, depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety, health anxiety, psychological distress and functional impairment (work and social adjustment) during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed. When considering the Big Five personality traits, the C-19ASS and its subscales were only significantly and negatively associated with extraversion; only the total score on the measure was associated with neuroticism. The observed effect sizes ranged from very small to medium. Given that all included studies (K = 24) were cross-sectional, and due to the nature of the COVID-19 Anxiety Syndrome, which may well persist after the pandemic ends, it is recommended to continue screening society for the persistence of this syndrome.}, } @article {pmid37165408, year = {2023}, author = {Fang, J and Chen, W and Hou, P and Liu, Z and Zuo, M and Liu, S and Feng, C and Han, Y and Li, P and Shi, Y and Shao, C}, title = {NAD[+] metabolism-based immunoregulation and therapeutic potential.}, journal = {Cell & bioscience}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {81}, pmid = {37165408}, issn = {2045-3701}, abstract = {Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD[+]) is a critical metabolite that acts as a cofactor in energy metabolism, and serves as a cosubstrate for non-redox NAD[+]-dependent enzymes, including sirtuins, CD38 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases. NAD[+] metabolism can regulate functionality attributes of innate and adaptive immune cells and contribute to inflammatory responses. Thus, the manipulation of NAD[+] bioavailability can reshape the courses of immunological diseases. Here, we review the basics of NAD[+] biochemistry and its roles in the immune response, and discuss current challenges and the future translational potential of NAD[+] research in the development of therapeutics for inflammatory diseases, such as COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37164987, year = {2023}, author = {Guo, L and Lin, S and Chen, Z and Cao, Y and He, B and Lu, G}, title = {Targetable elements in SARS-CoV-2 S2 subunit for the design of pan-coronavirus fusion inhibitors and vaccines.}, journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy}, volume = {8}, number = {1}, pages = {197}, pmid = {37164987}, issn = {2059-3635}, abstract = {The ongoing global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused devastating impacts on the public health and the global economy. Rapid viral antigenic evolution has led to the continual generation of new variants. Of special note is the recently expanding Omicron subvariants that are capable of immune evasion from most of the existing neutralizing antibodies (nAbs). This has posed new challenges for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Therefore, exploring broad-spectrum antiviral agents to combat the emerging variants is imperative. In sharp contrast to the massive accumulation of mutations within the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD), the S2 fusion subunit has remained highly conserved among variants. Hence, S2-based therapeutics may provide effective cross-protection against new SARS-CoV-2 variants. Here, we summarize the most recently developed broad-spectrum fusion inhibitors (e.g., nAbs, peptides, proteins, and small-molecule compounds) and candidate vaccines targeting the conserved elements in SARS-CoV-2 S2 subunit. The main focus includes all the targetable S2 elements, namely, the fusion peptide, stem helix, and heptad repeats 1 and 2 (HR1-HR2) bundle. Moreover, we provide a detailed summary of the characteristics and action-mechanisms for each class of cross-reactive fusion inhibitors, which should guide and promote future design of S2-based inhibitors and vaccines against new coronaviruses.}, } @article {pmid37164241, year = {2023}, author = {Homaeigohar, S and Liu, X and Elbahri, M}, title = {Antiviral polysaccharide and antiviral peptide delivering nanomaterials for prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 caused COVID-19 and other viral diseases.}, journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.05.010}, pmid = {37164241}, issn = {1873-4995}, abstract = {Antiviral peptides and antiviral polysaccharides can play a major role in the prevention and the treatment of emerging viral health problems. These antiviral compounds are biocompatible, environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and cost-effective, yet are poorly water soluble and vulnerable to enzymatic (protease) degradation within the aggressive intercellular microenvironment. Therefore, they should be properly protected and delivered to viruses and host cells by the well-designed nanocarriers that mimic viruses in terms of size, morphology, and smart function. This literature review is meant to introduce the latest advances (mainly within the past five years) in antiviral nano-assemblies comprising antiviral peptides or antiviral polysaccharides. To the best of our knowledge, there is no similar study in the literature that has solely and sufficiently investigated such antiviral nanomaterials partially or totally derived from nature. The rational classification of microorganism-, plant-, and animal-derived antiviral polysaccharide and antiviral peptide delivering nanomaterials and exploration of their relevant applications will clarify the promising capacity of these state-of-the-art materials for a number of technologies developed to inactivate viruses.}, } @article {pmid37164098, year = {2023}, author = {Priya, KK and Thilagam, H and Muthukumar, T and Gopalakrishnan, S and Govarthanan, M}, title = {Impact of microfiber pollution on aquatic biota: A critical analysis of effects and preventive measures.}, journal = {The Science of the total environment}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {163984}, doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163984}, pmid = {37164098}, issn = {1879-1026}, abstract = {The widespread use of Personal protective equipments (PPEs) by the healthcare professionals and public due to Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic has become a new source for MFs pollution. Mismanaged plastic wastes and random dispose of used surgical face mask end up in large aquatic bodies via small waterways and waste water treatment plants (WWTPs). Microplastics/Microfibres (MPs/MFs) have recently been reported in a variety of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, including water, deep sea sediments, air and soil. Natural components like UV radiation and temperature play a major role in weathering of surgical masks. High loads of MPs/MFs emitted into the aquatic environment are easily consumed by organism's habitat in such ecosystem by disrupting the food chain and causing chronic health problems in the organisms including humans. The aim of this review article is to shed light on these issues and compile the most recent information available regarding the deterioration of surgical face masks in the environment as well as other contaminants and their presence in various environments, particularly with regard to methods that make use of exposure models, biomarkers of exposure, and their limitations. Along with this, the study focuses on identifying gaps in current understanding and highlighting prospective research directions. The literature on surgical face mask pollution and its effects on the biological and physiological systems of various organisms and ecosystems is critically analysed in this review. It also raises awareness of how to properly dispose of used surgical face masks and other PPEs.}, } @article {pmid37163830, year = {2023}, author = {Tamborelli, A and Mujica, ML and Gallay, P and Vaschetti, V and Reartes, D and Delpino, R and Bravo, L and Bollo, S and Rodríguez, M and Rubianes, MD and Dalmasso, P and Rivas, G}, title = {Biosensing strategies for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acids.}, journal = {Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis}, volume = {232}, number = {}, pages = {115370}, pmid = {37163830}, issn = {1873-264X}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic had devastating effects throughout the world, producing a severe crisis in the health systems and in the economy of a long list of countries, even developed ones. Therefore, highly sensitive and selective analytical bioplatforms that allow the descentralized and fast detection of the severe acute respiratory síndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), are extremely necessary. Since 2020, several reviews have been published, most of them focused on the different strategies to detect the SARS-CoV-2, either from RNA, viral proteins or host antibodies produced due to the presence of the virus. In this review, the most relevant biosensors for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA are particularly addressed, with special emphasis on the discussion of the biorecognition layers and the different schemes for transducing the hybridization event.}, } @article {pmid37163778, year = {2023}, author = {Jiang, J and Yang, M and Tian, M and Chen, Z and Xiao, L and Gong, Y}, title = {Intertwined associations between oxytocin, immune system and major depressive disorder.}, journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie}, volume = {163}, number = {}, pages = {114852}, pmid = {37163778}, issn = {1950-6007}, abstract = {Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prominent psychiatric disorder with a high prevalence rate. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the already high prevalence of MDD. Unfortunately, a significant proportion of patients are unresponsive to conventional treatments, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Oxytocin, an endogenous neuropeptide, has emerged as a promising candidate with anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Oxytocin has been shown to alleviate emotional disorders by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the central immune system. The dysfunction of the immune system has been strongly linked to the onset and progression of depression. The central immune system is believed to be a key target of oxytocin in ameliorating emotional disorders. In this review, we examine the evidence regarding the interactions between oxytocin, the immune system, and depressive disorder. Moreover, we summarize and speculate on the potential roles of the intertwined association between oxytocin and the central immune system in treating emotional disorders.}, } @article {pmid37163442, year = {2023}, author = {Häder, A and Köse-Vogel, N and Schulz, L and Mlynska, L and Hornung, F and Hagel, S and Teichgräber, U and Lang, SM and Pletz, MW and Le Saux, CJ and Löffler, B and Deinhardt-Emmer, S}, title = {Respiratory Infections in the Aging Lung: Implications for Diagnosis, Therapy, and Prevention.}, journal = {Aging and disease}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.14336/AD.2023.0329}, pmid = {37163442}, issn = {2152-5250}, abstract = {Respiratory infections pose a significant health problem among elderly individuals, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The increased mortality and morbidity rates among individuals over 65 highlight the criticality of these infections. The normal aging process in the lungs increases vulnerability to respiratory infections due to the accumulation of cellular damage and senescence. Consequently, the lung environment undergoes major changes in mechanical function and other systemic factors. This review aims to examine the influence of aging on respiratory infections from a clinical perspective by analyzing clinical studies. Additionally, the review will emphasize potential prevention and diagnostic developments to enhance therapy options available for elderly patients over 65 years of age.}, } @article {pmid37163438, year = {2023}, author = {Xiao, J and Liang, C and Zhang, L and Li, J and Liu, S}, title = {The Intersection of COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Shared Mechanisms, Treatment Challenges, and Potential Therapeutic Approaches.}, journal = {Aging and disease}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.14336/AD.2023.0406}, pmid = {37163438}, issn = {2152-5250}, abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is spreading rapidly across the world, posing a major health concern with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may be at higher risk of infection and disease progression due to impaired autoimmune systems, immunosuppressants, and comorbidities. Therefore, we review the possible immune mechanisms and pathological interactions between COVID-19 and RA, as the uncontrolled immune activation and cytokine response in COVID-19 resemble the immune inflammation of RA. We also discuss the potential mechanisms that may lead to cardiovascular complications as well as the challenges of treating RA patients with COVID-19. While several therapeutic agents are being developed to cure COVID-19, antirheumatic drugs could also be potential options due to the similar proinflammatory cytokines induced in both diseases. Additionally, we discuss the safety and effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and novel therapeutic approaches against RA based on the shared mechanisms between COVID-19 and RA.}, } @article {pmid37161459, year = {2023}, author = {Ghodsi, AR and Malek, A and Siroosbakht, S and Aminian, A and Dormanesh, B and Azarfar, A and Zoshk, MY}, title = {Cardiac Outcome of Children With SARS-CoV-2 Related Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome.}, journal = {Indian pediatrics}, volume = {60}, number = {5}, pages = {381-384}, pmid = {37161459}, issn = {0974-7559}, mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Male ; Female ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Pericardial Effusion/epidemiology ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To study the cardiac outcomes of patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) after 6-month of diagnosis.

METHODS: This review of hospital records was conducted on MIS-C patients (aged <21 year) who completed a six-month follow up. The baseline demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment characteristics during the acute phase, and echocardiographic findings during follow-up were collected.

RESULTS: 116 patients (61.2% male, median age 7 years) with MIS-C were included in the study. At the time of admission, cardiac abnormalities were present in 70.7% of MIS-C patients, and the most common cardiac abnormalities were valve failure (50.9%), followed by ventricular dysfunction (39.7%), and pericardial effusion (23.3%). Six month after diagnosis, cardiac abnormalities were found in 10.3% of patients, and patients had lower rates of ventricular dysfunction (P<0.001), valve failure (P<0.001), pericardial effusion (P<0.001), and coronary involvement (P<0.001) as composed to the baseline. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and steroid treatment significantly reduced the odds of occurrence of ventricular dysfunction (P=0.002), valve failure (P=0.004), and low ejection fraction (P=0.002) in comparison to IVIG treatment.

CONCLUSION: While most MIS-C patients had abnormal echocardiographic findings at admission, only 10.3% of patients had cardiac abnormalities during follow up.}, } @article {pmid37114907, year = {2023}, author = {Pourmasumi, S and Kounis, NG and Naderi, M and Hosseinisadat, R and Khoradmehr, A and Fagheirelahee, N and Kouni, SN and de Gregorio, C and Dousdampanis, P and Mplani, V and Michalaki, MA and Plotas, P and Assimakopoulos, S and Gogos, C and Aidonidis, G and Roditis, P and Matsas, N and Velissaris, D and Calogiuri, G and Hung, MY and Koniari, I}, title = {Effects of COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination on the Female Reproductive System: A Narrative Review.}, journal = {Balkan medical journal}, volume = {40}, number = {3}, pages = {153-164}, doi = {10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2023.2023-3-4}, pmid = {37114907}, issn = {2146-3131}, mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Ovary ; Progesterone/pharmacology ; Vaccination ; }, abstract = {Several studies and research papers have been published to elucidate and understand the mechanism of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its long-term effects on the human body. COVID-19 affects a number of organs, including the female reproductive system. However, less attention has been given to the effects of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system due to their low morbidity. The results of studies investigating the relationship between COVID-19 infection and ovarian function in women of reproductive age have shown the harmless involvement of COVID-19 infection. Several studies have reported the involvement of COVID-19 infection in oocyte quality, ovarian function, and dysfunctions in the uterine endometrium and the menstrual cycle. The findings of these studies indicate that COVID-19 infection negatively affects the follicular microenvironment and dysregulate ovarian function. Although the COVID-19 pandemic and female reproductive health have been studied in humans and animals, very few studies have examined how COVID-19 affects the female reproductive system. The objective of this review is to summarize the current literature and categorize the effects of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, and hormonal profiles. The effects on oocyte maturation, oxidative stress, which causes chromosomal instability and apoptosis in ovaries, in vitro fertilization cycle, high-quality embryos, premature ovarian insufficiency, ovarian vein thrombosis, hypercoagulable state, women’s menstrual cycle, the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis, and sex hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and the anti-Müllerian hormone, are discussed in particular.}, } @article {pmid37081709, year = {2023}, author = {McLaren, AS and Fetit, R and Wood, CS and Falconer, J and Steele, CW}, title = {Single cell sequencing of neutrophils demonstrates phenotypic heterogeneity and functional plasticity in health, disease, and cancer.}, journal = {Chinese clinical oncology}, volume = {12}, number = {2}, pages = {18}, doi = {10.21037/cco-22-121}, pmid = {37081709}, issn = {2304-3873}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Mice ; Neutrophils/metabolism ; *COVID-19 ; Immunity, Innate ; *Neoplasms/genetics ; Phenotype ; }, abstract = {A vital constituent of innate immunity, neutrophils had previously been considered functionally rigid with a fixed, defined role in host pathogen response, in part due to their fleeting lifespan. However, that consensus opinion has changed with evidence of functional neutrophil plasticity in a range of diseases including cancer. Typically difficult to sequence due to their low level of transcriptomic activity, advances in single cell RNA sequencing has allowed for closer examination of the neutrophil transcriptome in humans and mouse models and their interaction with other immune system constituents, both in health and disease, allowing for description of neutrophil phenotypes beyond previous descriptions reliant upon microscopic appearance, surface marker expression, and function. Transcriptomic analysis shows that neutrophils develop and mature along a fixed trajectory, but their transcriptome varies based on maturity, the insult that has provoked release from the bone marrow, and the tissue to which they are recruited. Thus neutrophil heterogeneity increases with maturity, with immature neutrophils being more transcriptomically rigid. Here, we review work done in neutrophil single cell RNA sequencing in mice and humans in health and a range of disease states including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, and solid cancers to provide a template for understanding neutrophil biology in context.}, } @article {pmid36919634, year = {2023}, author = {Gajula, SNR and Khairnar, AS and Jock, P and Kumari, N and Pratima, K and Munjal, V and Kalan, P and Sonti, R}, title = {LC-MS/MS: A sensitive and selective analytical technique to detect COVID-19 protein biomarkers in the early disease stage.}, journal = {Expert review of proteomics}, volume = {20}, number = {1-3}, pages = {5-18}, doi = {10.1080/14789450.2023.2191845}, pmid = {36919634}, issn = {1744-8387}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 outbreak has put enormous pressure on the scientific community to detect infection rapidly, identify the status of disease severity, and provide an immediate vaccine/drug for the treatment. Relying on immunoassay and a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) led to many false-negative and false-positive reports. Therefore, detecting biomarkers is an alternative and reliable approach for determining the infection, its severity, and disease progression. Recent advances in liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) enable the protein biomarkers even at low concentrations, thus facilitating clinicians to monitor the treatment in hospitals.

AREAS COVERED: This review highlights the role of LC-MS/MS in identifying protein biomarkers and discusses the clinically significant protein biomarkers such as Serum amyloid A, Interleukin-6, C-Reactive Protein, Lactate dehydrogenase, D-dimer, cardiac troponin, ferritin, Alanine transaminase, Aspartate transaminase, gelsolin and galectin-3-binding protein in COVID-19, and their analysis by LC-MS/MS in the early stage.

EXPERT OPINION: Clinical doctors monitor significant biomarkers to understand, stratify, and treat patients according to disease severity. Knowledge of clinically significant COVID-19 protein biomarkers is critical not only for COVID-19 caused by the coronavirus but also to prepare us for future pandemics of other diseases in detecting by LC-MS/MS at the early stages.}, } @article {pmid36701793, year = {2023}, author = {Woods, EH and Zhang, Y and Roemer, EC and Kent, KB and Davis, MF and Goetzel, RZ}, title = {Addressing Psychosocial, Organizational, and Environmental Stressors Emerging From the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Effect on Essential Workers' Mental Health and Well-being: A Literature Review.}, journal = {Journal of occupational and environmental medicine}, volume = {65}, number = {5}, pages = {419-427}, pmid = {36701793}, issn = {1536-5948}, support = {U19 OH012297/OH/NIOSH CDC HHS/United States ; }, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Mental Health ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; Emotions ; Health Personnel/psychology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify stressors faced by essential workers amid the coronavirus disease pandemic and effective interventions mitigating these stressors.

METHODS: We reviewed literature on psychosocial, organizational, and environmental stressors faced by essential workers during the pandemic, the consequences of those stressors, and interventions to improve worker health and well-being.

FINDINGS: Stressors included elevated risk of coronavirus disease 2019 exposure, fear of spreading the virus, lack of social and organizational supports, and financial insecurity. Negative outcomes included burnout, depression, and high turnover. Promising interventions included robust safety protocols, increased wages, childcare benefits, enhanced access to mental health services, and frequent leadership communications.

CONCLUSION: Stress has taken a heavy toll on essential workers' physical and emotional health, productivity, and job satisfaction. To effectively protect Total Worker Health, employers should adopt evidence-based interventions promoting psychosocial, organizational, and environmental health and safety.}, } @article {pmid37163224, year = {2023}, author = {Nakagawa, S and Sakaguchi, S and Ogura, A and Mineta, K and Endo, T and Suzuki, Y and Gojobori, T}, title = {Current trends in RNA virus detection through metatranscriptome sequencing data.}, journal = {FEBS open bio}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1002/2211-5463.13626}, pmid = {37163224}, issn = {2211-5463}, abstract = {With advances in sequencing technology, metatranscriptome sequencing from a variety of environmental and biological sources has revealed the existence of various previously unknown RNA viruses. This review presents recent major RNA virome studies sampled from invertebrate and vertebrate species as well as aquatic environments. In particular, we focus on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and related RNA virus identification through metatranscriptome sequencing analyses. Recently developed bioinformatics software and databases for RNA virus identification are introduced. A relationship between newly identified RNA viruses and endogenous viral elements in host genomes is also discussed.}, } @article {pmid37162745, year = {2023}, author = {Iannizzi, C and Chai, KL and Piechotta, V and Valk, SJ and Kimber, C and Monsef, I and Wood, EM and Lamikanra, AA and Roberts, DJ and McQuilten, Z and So-Osman, C and Jindal, A and Cryns, N and Estcourt, LJ and Kreuzberger, N and Skoetz, N}, title = {Convalescent plasma for people with COVID-19: a living systematic review.}, journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews}, volume = {5}, number = {}, pages = {CD013600}, pmid = {37162745}, issn = {1469-493X}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Convalescent plasma may reduce mortality in patients with viral respiratory diseases, and is being investigated as a potential therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A thorough understanding of the current body of evidence regarding benefits and risks of this intervention is required.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness and safety of convalescent plasma transfusion in the treatment of people with COVID-19; and to maintain the currency of the evidence using a living systematic review approach.

SEARCH METHODS: To identify completed and ongoing studies, we searched the World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 Global literature on coronavirus disease Research Database, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, and the Epistemonikos COVID-19 L*OVE Platform. We searched monthly until 03 March 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating convalescent plasma for COVID-19, irrespective of disease severity, age, gender or ethnicity. We excluded studies that included populations with other coronavirus diseases (severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) or Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)), as well as studies evaluating standard immunoglobulin.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We followed standard Cochrane methodology. To assess bias in included studies we used RoB 2. We used the GRADE approach to rate the certainty of evidence for the following outcomes: all-cause mortality at up to day 28, worsening and improvement of clinical status (for individuals with moderate to severe disease), hospital admission or death, COVID-19 symptoms resolution (for individuals with mild disease), quality of life, grade 3 or 4 adverse events, and serious adverse events.

MAIN RESULTS: In this fourth review update version, we included 33 RCTs with 24,861 participants, of whom 11,432 received convalescent plasma. Of these, nine studies are single-centre studies and 24 are multi-centre studies. Fourteen studies took place in America, eight in Europe, three in South-East Asia, two in Africa, two in western Pacific and three in eastern Mediterranean regions and one in multiple regions. We identified a further 49 ongoing studies evaluating convalescent plasma, and 33 studies reporting as being completed. Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and moderate to severe disease 29 RCTs investigated the use of convalescent plasma for 22,728 participants with moderate to severe disease. 23 RCTs with 22,020 participants compared convalescent plasma to placebo or standard care alone, five compared to standard plasma and one compared to human immunoglobulin. We evaluate subgroups on detection of antibodies detection, symptom onset, country income groups and several co-morbidities in the full text. Convalescent plasma versus placebo or standard care alone Convalescent plasma does not reduce all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (risk ratio (RR) 0.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.92 to 1.03; 220 per 1000; 21 RCTs, 19,021 participants; high-certainty evidence). It has little to no impact on need for invasive mechanical ventilation, or death (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.11; 296 per 1000; 6 RCTs, 14,477 participants; high-certainty evidence) and has no impact on whether participants are discharged from hospital (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.02; 665 per 1000; 6 RCTs, 12,721 participants; high-certainty evidence). Convalescent plasma may have little to no impact on quality of life (MD 1.00, 95% CI -2.14 to 4.14; 1 RCT, 483 participants; low-certainty evidence). Convalescent plasma may have little to no impact on the risk of grades 3 and 4 adverse events (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.42; 212 per 1000; 6 RCTs, 2392 participants; low-certainty evidence). It has probably little to no effect on the risk of serious adverse events (RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.44; 135 per 1000; 6 RCTs, 3901 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Convalescent plasma versus standard plasma We are uncertain whether convalescent plasma reduces or increases all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.19; 129 per 1000; 4 RCTs, 484 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are uncertain whether convalescent plasma reduces or increases the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, or death (RR 5.59, 95% CI 0.29 to 108.38; 311 per 1000; 1 study, 34 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and whether it reduces or increases the risk of serious adverse events (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.15; 236 per 1000; 3 RCTs, 327 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We did not identify any study reporting other key outcomes. Convalescent plasma versus human immunoglobulin Convalescent plasma may have little to no effect on all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.50; 464 per 1000; 1 study, 190 participants; low-certainty evidence). We did not identify any study reporting other key outcomes. Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and mild disease We identified two RCTs reporting on 536 participants, comparing convalescent plasma to placebo or standard care alone, and two RCTs reporting on 1597 participants with mild disease, comparing convalescent plasma to standard plasma. Convalescent plasma versus placebo or standard care alone We are uncertain whether convalescent plasma reduces all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (odds ratio (OR) 0.36, 95% CI 0.09 to 1.46; 8 per 1000; 2 RCTs, 536 participants; very low-certainty evidence). It may have little to no effect on admission to hospital or death within 28 days (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.60 to 1.84; 117 per 1000; 1 RCT, 376 participants; low-certainty evidence), on time to COVID-19 symptom resolution (hazard ratio (HR) 1.05, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.30; 483 per 1000; 1 RCT, 376 participants; low-certainty evidence), on the risk of grades 3 and 4 adverse events (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.75 to 2.19; 144 per 1000; 1 RCT, 376 participants; low-certainty evidence) and the risk of serious adverse events (RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.94; 133 per 1000; 1 RCT, 376 participants; low-certainty evidence). We did not identify any study reporting other key outcomes. Convalescent plasma versus standard plasma We are uncertain whether convalescent plasma reduces all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.05 to 1.75; 2 per 1000; 2 RCTs, 1597 participants; very low-certainty evidence). It probably reduces admission to hospital or death within 28 days (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.75; 36 per 1000; 2 RCTs, 1595 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Convalescent plasma may have little to no effect on initial symptom resolution at up to day 28 (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.27; 1 RCT, 416 participants; low-certainty evidence). We did not identify any study reporting other key outcomes. This is a living systematic review. We search monthly for new evidence and update the review when we identify relevant new evidence.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: For the comparison of convalescent plasma versus placebo or standard care alone, our certainty in the evidence that convalescent plasma for individuals with moderate to severe disease does not reduce mortality and has little to no impact on clinical improvement or worsening is high. It probably has little to no effect on SAEs. For individuals with mild disease, we have very-low to low certainty evidence for most primary outcomes and moderate certainty for hospital admission or death. There are 49 ongoing studies, and 33 studies reported as complete in a trials registry. Publication of ongoing studies might resolve some of the uncertainties around convalescent plasma therapy for people with asymptomatic or mild disease.}, } @article {pmid37162729, year = {2023}, author = {Tana, M and Tana, C and Palmiero, G and Mantini, C and Coppola, MG and Limongelli, G and Schiavone, C and Porreca, E}, title = {Imaging findings of right cardiac amyloidosis: impact on prognosis and clinical course.}, journal = {Journal of ultrasound}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37162729}, issn = {1876-7931}, abstract = {Cardiac involvement from amyloidosis is of growing interest in the overall literature. Despite cardiac amyloidosis (CA) has been considered for a long time a rare disease, the diagnostic awareness is increasing mainly thanks to the improvement of diagnostic softwares and of imaging techniques such as cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Some authors have observed an increase of prevalence rate of CA; moreover it's often underestimated because clinical manifestations are aspecific. The interstitial infiltration of the left ventricle has been extensively studied, while the involvement of the right ventricle (RV) has been less investigated. Involvement of the RV, even in the absence of pulmonary hypertension or clearly left ventricle infiltration, plays an important role as prognostic factor and is useful to achieve an early diagnosis. Therefore, the use of fast and low-cost diagnostic methods such as ultrasound strain of the right ventricle could be used to recognize cardiac amyloidosis early. Herein the importance of evaluating the right ventricular involvement, which can predict the most severe course of the disease also without overt clinical manifestations. The role of imaging, in particular of echocardiography, CMR, and scintigraphy is here reported.}, } @article {pmid37162723, year = {2023}, author = {Nayfeh, M and Ahmed, AI and Saad, JM and Alahdab, F and Al-Mallah, M}, title = {The Role of Cardiac PET in Diagnosis and Prognosis of Ischemic Heart Disease: Optimal Modality Across Different Patient Populations.}, journal = {Current atherosclerosis reports}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37162723}, issn = {1534-6242}, abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Despite single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) being the most used nuclear imaging technique for diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD), many now consider positron emission tomography (PET) as a superior modality. This review will focus on the advances of cardiac PET in recent years and its advantages compared to SPECT in diagnosis and prognosis of CAD.

RECENT FINDINGS: PET's higher resolution and enhanced diagnostic accuracy, as well as lower radiation exposure, all help explain the rationale for its wider spread and use. PET also allows for measurement of myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR), which aids in several different clinical scenarios, such as diagnosing multivessel disease or identifying non-responders. PET has also been shown to be useful in diagnosing CAD in various specific populations, such as patients with prior COVID-19 infection, cardiac transplant, and other comorbidities.}, } @article {pmid37162716, year = {2023}, author = {Keske, Ş and Akyol, M and Tanrıöver, C and Özlüşen, B and Akcan, RE and Güler, U and Sait, B and Kaçmaz, B and Gönen, M and Ergönül, Ö}, title = {Effectiveness of tocilizumab in non-intubated cases with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.}, journal = {Infection}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37162716}, issn = {1439-0973}, abstract = {PURPOSE: Tocilizumab, a monoclonal IL-6 receptor blocker, is an effective agent for severe-to-critical cases of COVID-19; however, its target patients for the optimum use need to be detailed. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to define its effect among severely ill but non-intubated cases with COVID-19.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medrxiv, and Biorxiv until February 13, 2022, for non-intubated cases, and included randomized-controlled trials (RCT) based on bias assessment. The primary outcomes were the requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation and mortality. Random effect and fixed-effect models were used. The heterogeneity was measured using the χ[2] and I[2] statistics, with χ[2] p ≤ 0.05 and I[2] ≥ 50% indicating the presence of significant heterogeneity. We registered the study to the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the registration number CRD42021232575.

RESULTS: Among 261 articles, 11 RCTs were included. The pooled analysis of the 11 RCTs demonstrated that the rate of mortality was significantly lower in the tocilizumab group than in the control group (20.0% and 24.2%, OR: 0.84, 95% CI 0.73-0.96, and heterogeneity I[2] = 0%. p = 0.82.). The mechanical ventilation rate was lower in the tocilizumab group than the control group (27% vs 35.2%, OR: 0.76, 95% CI 0.67-0.86, and heterogeneity I[2] = 6%. p = 0.39).

CONCLUSION: Among non-intubated severe COVID-19 cases, tocilizumab reduces the risk of invasive mechanical ventilation and mortality compared to standard-of-care treatment.}, } @article {pmid37162655, year = {2023}, author = {Nasr, ZG and Elamin, W and Basil, M and Eljaaly, K}, title = {Pharmacist-driven antimicrobial stewardship interventions in patients with COVID-19: a scoping review.}, journal = {International journal of clinical pharmacy}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37162655}, issn = {2210-7711}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly infectious disease that can be treated with antivirals in addition to other antimicrobials in cases of secondary or concomitant infections. This creates potential for antimicrobials misuse, which increases antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Pharmacists are known to undertake prominent roles in combatting AMR.

AIM: The aim of this review was to characterize pharmacist-driven interventions that have been performed in patients with COVID-19 globally and describe their impact on antimicrobial use.

METHOD: We followed the Joanna Briggs Institutes manual framework for scoping reviews in our study. Studies that reported antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions performed by pharmacists in COVID-19 patients were included. Articles that did not report outcomes or did not mention pharmacists in the intervention were excluded. Restrictions included English-only articles from inception date until June 2022. Articles were searched from four databases.

RESULTS: Eleven publications were included in the review. The most common AMS intervention was pharmacist-driven interventions reported in 63.2% of all studies, followed by guideline development and application (26.3%), and medication supply coordination (10.5%), respectively. The outcomes of the interventions were difficult to compare but showed a reduction in antimicrobial use and prevention of adverse drug reactions with a relatively high acceptance rate from physicians.

CONCLUSION: Pharmacists played an important role in performing AMS-related interventions in COVID-19 patients and helped in the fight against the worsening of AMR during the pandemic. The impact of pharmacist-driven AMS interventions in patients with COVID-19 seemed to be positive and improved outcomes related to antimicrobial use.}, } @article {pmid37162570, year = {2023}, author = {Van der Weijden, F}, title = {Aerosol in the oral health-care setting: a misty topic.}, journal = {Clinical oral investigations}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37162570}, issn = {1436-3771}, abstract = {Studies have shown that mouth and respiratory tract microorganisms can be transported in aerosol and spatter. Due to aerosol-generating procedures, there are potentially various infection risks for patients and those working in health care, especially in oral health care. Dental aerosol can contaminate not only the mucous membranes of the oral health-care professional's mouth, respiratory passages, and eyes but also exposed surfaces and materials in the environment. As such, preventing disease transmission within oral health-care offices is important issue. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, an innumerable amount of (mis)information and advice on how to stay safe and prevent the spread of coronavirus has been published. What preventive measures can and have been taken to counteract this, and what have we learned during the pandemic? This review summarizes relevant literature that has addressed the presence and dispersal of aerosol and spatter as a concern in health care. It includes the sources of dental aerosol, their potential health threats, and strategies for controlling and mitigating their impact. It shows that further research is needed to better understand the potential health risks of dental aerosol and to develop effective strategies for mitigating them. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Using personal protective equipment, high-volume evacuation systems and pre-procedural antimicrobial agents can help to reduce the potential for infection in oral health-care settings and protect the well-being of oral health-care workers and their patients.}, } @article {pmid37162501, year = {2023}, author = {Tenchov, R and Sasso, JM and Zhou, QA}, title = {PEGylated Lipid Nanoparticle Formulations: Immunological Safety and Efficiency Perspective.}, journal = {Bioconjugate chemistry}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.3c00174}, pmid = {37162501}, issn = {1520-4812}, abstract = {Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been recognized as efficient vehicles to transport a large variety of therapeutics. Currently in the spotlight as important constituents of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, LNPs play a significant role in protecting and transporting mRNA to cells. As one of their key constituents, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-lipid conjugates are important in defining LNP physicochemical characteristics and biological activity. PEGylation has proven particularly efficient in conferring longer systemic circulation of LNPs, thus greatly improving their pharmacokinetics and efficiency. Along with revealing the benefits of PEG conjugates, studies have revealed unexpected immune reactions against PEGylated nanocarriers such as accelerated blood clearance (ABC), involving the production of anti-PEG antibodies at initial injection, which initiates accelerated blood clearance upon subsequent injections, as well as a hypersensitivity reaction referred to as complement activation-related pseudoallergy (CARPA). Further, data have been accumulated indicating consistent yet sometimes controversial correlations between various structural parameters of the PEG-lipids, the properties of the PEGylated LNPs, and the magnitude of the observed adverse effects. Detailed knowledge and comprehension of such correlations are of foremost importance in the efforts to diminish and eliminate the undesirable immune reactions and improve the safety and efficiency of the PEGylated medicines. Here, we present an overview based on analysis of data from the CAS Content Collection regarding the PEGylated LNP immunogenicity and overall safety concerns. A comprehensive summary has been compiled outlining how various structural parameters of the PEG-lipids affect the immune responses and activities of the LNPs, with regards to their efficiency in drug delivery. This Review is thus intended to serve as a helpful resource in understanding the current knowledge in the field, in an effort to further solve the remaining challenges and to achieve full potential.}, } @article {pmid37161869, year = {2023}, author = {Guan, X and Yang, Y and Du, L}, title = {Advances in SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain-based COVID-19 vaccines.}, journal = {Expert review of vaccines}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {422-439}, doi = {10.1080/14760584.2023.2211153}, pmid = {37161869}, issn = {1744-8395}, abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused devastating human and economic costs. Vaccination is an important step in controlling the pandemic. Severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, infects cells by binding a cellular receptor through the receptor-binding domain (RBD) within the S1 subunit of the spike (S) protein. Viral entry and membrane fusion are mediated by the S2 subunit.

AREAS COVERED: SARS-CoV-2 S protein, particularly RBD, serves as an important target for vaccines. Here we review the structure and function of SARS-CoV-2 S protein and its RBD, summarize current COVID-19 vaccines targeting the RBD, and outline potential strategies for improving RBD-based vaccines. Overall, this review provides important information that will facilitate rational design and development of safer and more effective COVID-19 vaccines.

EXPERT OPINION: The S protein of SARS-CoV-2 harbors numerous mutations, mostly in the RBD, resulting in multiple variant strains. Although many COVID-19 vaccines targeting the RBD of original virus strain (and previous variants) can prevent infection of these strains, their ability against recent dominant variants, particularly Omicron and its offspring, is significantly reduced. Collective efforts are needed to develop effective broad-spectrum vaccines to control current and future variants that have pandemic potential.}, } @article {pmid37161546, year = {2023}, author = {Garbin, AJÍ and Chiba, EK and Garbin, CAS and Chiba, FY and Moimaz, SAS and Saliba, TA}, title = {Systematic review: Impact of parental decision on paediatric COVID-19 vaccination.}, journal = {Child: care, health and development}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.1111/cch.13124}, pmid = {37161546}, issn = {1365-2214}, abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective was to carry out a systematic review on the acceptance of parents to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 and the factors that contribute for vaccination hesitancy.

METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Re- views and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome (PICO) strategy were followed. A search was carried out in the VHL Regional Portal, PubMed, Scielo, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus databases. We included articles that assessed the rate of acceptance and/or hesitation of parents and the factors that affect the decision about vaccination against COVID-19 for their children in cross-sectional studies. Laboratory studies, animal models, tests and case reports that elected other aspects related to COVID-19 were excluded. The methodological quality of the studies was based on the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data, developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute.

RESULTS: From the 708 articles found, 237 studies remained after removal of duplicates. Titles and abstracts of these publications were evaluated and, applying the exclusion criteria, 56 articles were selected. Inclusion criteria were employed and 28 studies were eligible. Overall average vaccination acceptance rate was 55.81%, and the main reasons for vaccine hesitancy were uncertainty of vaccine efficacy and safety, concerns about side effects, and lack of access to relevant information.

CONCLUSION: The research results can be useful for the development of health education and parental awareness strategies in order to promote greater adherence to vaccination against COVID-19.}, } @article {pmid37161521, year = {2023}, author = {Piersanti, G and Landoni, G and Scquizzato, T and Zangrillo, A and Piemonti, L}, title = {Reparixin improves survival in critically ill and transplant patients: A meta-analysis.}, journal = {European journal of clinical investigation}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {e14015}, doi = {10.1111/eci.14015}, pmid = {37161521}, issn = {1365-2362}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Reparixin, an anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits interleukin 8 (IL-8) activity, might be life-saving for high-risk in-hospital patients without increasing the risk of infection according to a previous meta-analysis. With the increasing availability of randomised data the aim of the current study is to update previous findings by including any randomised control trials (RCTs) investigating the impact of reparixin on survival of critically ill or transplant patients.

METHODS: A search strategy was developed to identify all RCTs involving reparixin in critically ill or transplant patients, with the exclusion of oncological patients. Two trained and independent authors conducted a thorough search of relevant databases. In addition, backward snowballing was employed. Language restrictions were not imposed.

RESULTS: Our analysis included a total of nine studies involving 733 patients: 437 received reparixin and 296 the comparator. The reparixin group had a significantly lower all-cause mortality rate compared to the control group [15/437 (3.4%) vs. 19/294 (6.4%), odds ratio = 0.47 (95% confidence interval 0.23-0.96), p-value for effect .04, I2 = 22%, number needed to treat = 33]. These findings had the same direction and magnitude of effect across COVID-19 patients (n = 325) and non-COVID-19 patients (n = 408). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the rate of pneumonia, sepsis or non-serious infections between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this meta-analysis indicate that reparixin, an anti-inflammatory drug, improved survival in critically ill or transplant patients (including both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients) without increasing the risk of infection.}, } @article {pmid37161391, year = {2023}, author = {Ma, C and Liu, J and Tang, J and Sun, Y and Jiang, X and Zhang, T and Feng, Y and Liu, Q and Wang, L}, title = {Current genetic strategies to investigate gene functions in Trichoderma reesei.}, journal = {Microbial cell factories}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {97}, pmid = {37161391}, issn = {1475-2859}, abstract = {The filamentous fungus Trichoderma reesei (teleomorph Hypocrea jecorina, Ascomycota) is a well-known lignocellulolytic enzymes-producing strain in industry. To increase the fermentation titer of lignocellulolytic enzymes, random mutagenesis and rational genetic engineering in T. reesei were carried out since it was initially found in the Solomon Islands during the Second World War. Especially the continuous exploration of the underlying regulatory network during (hemi)cellulase gene expression in the post-genome era provided various strategies to develop an efficient fungal cell factory for these enzymes' production. Meanwhile, T. reesei emerges competitiveness potential as a filamentous fungal chassis to produce proteins from other species (e.g., human albumin and interferon α-2b, SARS-CoV-2 N antigen) in virtue of the excellent expression and secretion system acquired during the studies about (hemi)cellulase production. However, all the achievements in high yield of (hemi)cellulases are impossible to finish without high-efficiency genetic strategies to analyze the proper functions of those genes involved in (hemi)cellulase gene expression or secretion. Here, we in detail summarize the current strategies employed to investigate gene functions in T. reesei. These strategies are supposed to be beneficial for extending the potential of T. reesei in prospective strain engineering.}, } @article {pmid37161379, year = {2023}, author = {Yi, B and Zhang, L and Yin, J and Zhou, S and Xia, Z}, title = {1-3-7 surveillance and response approach in malaria elimination: China's practice and global adaptions.}, journal = {Malaria journal}, volume = {22}, number = {1}, pages = {152}, pmid = {37161379}, issn = {1475-2875}, support = {No. INV-018913/GATES/Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation/United States ; }, abstract = {There has been a significant reduction in malaria morbidity and mortality worldwide from 2000 to 2019. However, the incidence and mortality increased again in 2020 due to the disruption to services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Surveillance to reduce the burden of malaria, eliminate the disease and prevent its retransmission is, therefore, crucial. The 1-3-7 approach proposed by China has played an important role in eliminating malaria, which has been internationally popularized and adopted in some countries to help eliminate malaria. This review summarizes the experience and lessons of 1-3-7 approach in China and its application in other malaria-endemic countries, so as to provide references for its role in eliminating malaria and preventing retransmission. This approach needs to be tailored and adapted according to the region condition, considering the completion, timeliness and limitation of case-based reactive surveillance and response. It is very important to popularize malaria knowledge, train staff, improve the capacity of health centres and monitor high-risk groups to improve the performance in eliminating settings. After all, remaining vigilance in detecting malaria cases and optimizing surveillance and response systems are critical to achieving and sustaining malaria elimination.}, } @article {pmid37160688, year = {2023}, author = {Ho, IK and Çabuk, K}, title = {The impact of racial discrimination on the health of Asian Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review.}, journal = {Ethnicity & health}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {1-26}, doi = {10.1080/13557858.2023.2208312}, pmid = {37160688}, issn = {1465-3419}, abstract = {ABSTRACTObjective: Cases of discrimination and hate crimes against Asian Americans have surged ever since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, with deleterious effects. This scoping review synthesizes the literature on how pandemic-related discrimination is associated with the health of Asian Americans.Design: First, application search terms were entered into selected databases. Next, using a set of inclusion criteria, the articles were screened and assessed for eligibility. Data from the selected articles were extracted and summarized to answer the research questions.Results: Thirty-five studies were included. Almost all the studies examined psychological well-being. The remaining studies examined physical and workplace well-being. All the studies found that discrimination was associated with poorer health outcomes.Conclusion: Further research is needed to address the gaps in knowledge about how pandemic-related discrimination is associated with various domains of health among Asian Americans.}, } @article {pmid37160680, year = {2023}, author = {Boyle, Q and Illes, J}, title = {Neuromodulation and Opioid Use Disorder: Ethical Opportunities for Canada.}, journal = {The Canadian journal of neurological sciences. Le journal canadien des sciences neurologiques}, volume = {50}, number = {s1}, pages = {s26-s33}, doi = {10.1017/cjn.2022.328}, pmid = {37160680}, issn = {0317-1671}, abstract = {Despite increased efforts of government and non-government organisations to intervene via harm reduction and education initiatives, the opioid crisis has continued to worsen and has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In British Columbia, Canada, opioid overdose deaths in 2021 are the highest ever recorded. Neuromodulation procedures such as deep brain stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation have gained traction as treatments for opioid use disorder in various countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, the United States and China. However, these treatment options have been met with apprehension from both clinicians and patients, likely owing to fear, stigma and reluctance to label addiction as a brain disorder. Further complicating this landscape are socio-demographic factors, as marginalised communities are disproportionately burdened by addiction, while having poor access to care and a history of distrust in the health system. This multifactorial challenge involving many sociocultural factors requires culturally sensitive, interdisciplinary approaches to ensure direct-to-brain innovations are implemented ethically and equitably. This review summarises the state of the science for using neuromodulation to treat opioid use disorder, as well as the available ethical discourse surrounding the expansion of clinical trials and eventual widespread clinical implementation. Additional ethics discussions highlight opportunities for the engineering and clinical evolution of neuromodulation for opioid use disorder trials.}, } @article {pmid37160649, year = {2023}, author = {Ecarnot, F and Boccardi, V and Calcagno, A and Franceschi, C and Fülop, T and Itzhaki, RF and Michel, JP and Panza, F and Rainero, I and Solfrizzi, V and Ticinesi, A and Veronese, N and Maggi, S}, title = {Dementia, infections and vaccines: 30 years of controversy.}, journal = {Aging clinical and experimental research}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37160649}, issn = {1720-8319}, abstract = {This paper reports the proceedings of a virtual meeting convened by the European Interdisciplinary Council on Ageing (EICA), to discuss the involvement of infectious disorders in the pathogenesis of dementia and neurological disorders leading to dementia. We recap how our view of the infectious etiology of dementia has changed over the last 30 years in light of emerging evidence, and we present evidence in support of the implication of infection in dementia, notably Alzheimer's disease (AD). The bacteria and viruses thought to be responsible for neuroinflammation and neurological damage are reviewed. We then review the genetic basis for neuroinflammation and dementia, highlighting the genes that are currently the focus of investigation as potential targets for therapy. Next, we describe the antimicrobial hypothesis of dementia, notably the intriguing possibility that amyloid beta may itself possess antimicrobial properties. We further describe the clinical relevance of the gut-brain axis in dementia, the mechanisms by which infection can move from the intestine to the brain, and recent findings regarding dysbiosis patterns in patients with AD. We review the involvement of specific pathogens in neurological disorders, i.e. SARS-CoV-2, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1), and influenza. Finally, we look at the role of vaccination to prevent dementia. In conclusion, there is a large body of evidence supporting the involvement of various infectious pathogens in the pathogenesis of dementia, but large-scale studies with long-term follow-up are needed to elucidate the role that infection may play, especially before subclinical or clinical disease is present.}, } @article {pmid37160542, year = {2023}, author = {Czaja, AJ}, title = {Incorporating the Molecular Mimicry of Environmental Antigens into the Causality of Autoimmune Hepatitis.}, journal = {Digestive diseases and sciences}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37160542}, issn = {1573-2568}, abstract = {Molecular mimicry between foreign and self-antigens has been implicated as a cause of autoimmune hepatitis in experimental models and cross-reacting antibodies in patients. This review describes the experimental and clinical evidence for molecular mimicry as a cause of autoimmune hepatitis, indicates the limitations and uncertainties of this premise, and encourages investigations that assess diverse environmental antigens as sources of disease-relevant molecular mimics. Pertinent articles were identified in PubMed using multiple search phrases. Several pathogens have linear or conformational epitopes that mimic the self-antigens of autoimmune hepatitis. The occurrence of an acute immune-mediated hepatitis after vaccination for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-associated coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has suggested that vaccine-induced peptides may mimic disease-relevant tissue antigens. The intestinal microbiome is an under-evaluated source of gut-derived antigens that could also engage in molecular mimicry. Chaperone molecules may enhance the pathogenicity of molecular mimics, and they warrant investigation. Molecular mimics of immune dominant epitopes within cytochrome P450 IID6, the autoantigen most closely associated with autoimmune hepatitis, should be sought in diverse environmental antigens and assessed for pathogenicity. Avoidance strategies, dietary adjustments, vaccine improvement, and targeted manipulation of the intestinal microbiota may emerge as therapeutic possibilities. In conclusion, molecular mimicry may be a missing causality of autoimmune hepatitis. Molecular mimics of key immune dominant epitopes of disease-specific antigens must be sought in diverse environmental antigens. The ubiquity of molecular mimicry compels rigorous assessments of peptide mimics for immunogenicity and pathogenicity in experimental models. Molecular mimicry may complement epigenetic modifications as causative mechanisms of autoimmune hepatitis.}, } @article {pmid37160482, year = {2023}, author = {Mohanty, SS and Sahoo, CR and Paidesetty, SK and Padhy, RN}, title = {Role of phytocompounds as the potential anti-viral agent: an overview.}, journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, pmid = {37160482}, issn = {1432-1912}, abstract = {Viral diseases are the most notorious infective agent(s) causing morbidity and mortality in every nook and corner for ages; viruses are active in host cells, and specific anti-virus medicines' developments remain uncanny. In this century of the biological era, human viruses act predominantly as versatile spreaders. The infection of the present COVID-19 virus is up in the air; blithely, the integument of medicinal chemistry approaches, particularly bioactive derived phytocompounds could be helpful to control those human viruses, recognized in the last 100 years. Indeed, natural products are being used for various therapeutic purposes. The major bioactive phytocompounds are chemically containing coumarin, thiosulfonate, steroid, polysaccharide, tannin, lignin, proanthocyanidin, terpene, quinone, saponin, flavonoid, alkaloid, and polyphenol, that are documented for inhibitory action against several viral infections. Mostly, about 20-30% of plants from tropical or temperate regions are known to have some antiviral activity. This comprehensive analysis of bioactive-derived phytocompounds would represent a significant impact and might be helpful for antiviral research and the current state of viral treatments.}, } @article {pmid37155606, year = {2023}, author = {Shaw, B and Gatherer, D}, title = {Candidate historical events for the emergence of Human Coronavirus OC43: A critical reassessment of the molecular evidence.}, journal = {PloS one}, volume = {18}, number = {5}, pages = {e0285481}, pmid = {37155606}, issn = {1932-6203}, mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Cattle ; *Coronavirus OC43, Human/genetics ; Phylogeny ; *Influenza, Human ; Bayes Theorem ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {The "Russian Influenza"-coronavirus theory (RICT) proposes that the pandemic of 1889-1892, conventionally regarded as an influenza pandemic, was caused by the emergence of human coronavirus OC43 (HCoV-OC43) as a zoonosis of bovine coronavirus (BCoV). RICT is based on a Bayesian phylogenetic calculation of the date of the most recent common ancestor (MRCA) of HCoV-OC43 and BCoV. The theory also draws on comparison of both symptoms and some epidemiological parameters of the best studied coronavirus pandemic, i.e. COVID-19, with those reported in 1889-1892. The case is completed with circumstantial evidence involving a panzoonotic among cattle in the decade prior to the "Russian Influenza", with characteristics suggesting it may have been caused by BCoV. In this paper, we review the Bayesian phylogenetic evidence for RICT, replicating previous studies and adding our own, in each case critically reviewing the suitability of the datasets used and the parameters applied. We conclude that the most probable date for the MRCA of HCoV-OC43 and BCoV is 1898-1902. This is a decade too late for compatibility with RICT but happens to coincide with another serious outbreak of respiratory illness, reported in both the USA and the UK, in the winter of 1899-1900.}, } @article {pmid37154807, year = {2023}, author = {Di Pumpo, M and Sommella, L and Damiani, G}, title = {Networks as a way to hospital and primary/community care integration: findings from a narrative review of the main international models.}, journal = {Igiene e sanita pubblica}, volume = {80}, number = {2}, pages = {27-48}, pmid = {37154807}, issn = {0019-1639}, mesh = {Infant, Newborn ; Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Delivery of Health Care ; Hospitals ; Australia ; Health Facilities ; }, abstract = {Background Healthcare systems are complex systems. Achieving financial, social, and environmental sustainability of these systems requires a high degree of integration and coordination at all levels, especially between acute-care settings and primary/community care services. Some authors have, therefore, suggest redirecting integrated healthcare research towards the network theory and network concepts as a useful lens. Objective The current paper proposes to investigate the existence, the institutional level of formalization and the degree of development of hospital/primary-community care Networks currently present in the main types of healthcare systems worldwide by studying an appropriate selection of representative countries for each system typology. Materials and Methods A narrative review of the scientific and gray literature following the methodology by Green et al. was, therefore, conducted to describe hospital and primary/community care networks and their integration/coordination in the main international models. To select these models, one country with the current highest life expectancy at birth for each of the B öhm's five healthcare system categories was chosen. The grade of integration of the Networks retrieved for each State was therefore qualitatively appraised (high, medium or low degree), following Valentijn's framework. Results The networks retrieved show: in Norway, Australia and Japan both at the government/ national and at the regional/lower level/other a high degree of systemic, organizational, normative and functional integration; in Switzerland both at the government/national and at the regional/lower level/other a medium degree of systemic, organizational, normative and functional integration; in the USA at the governmental/institution level a low degree of systemic, organizational and normative integration, with a medium degree of functional integration and at the regional/lower level/other integration a low degree of systemic and normative integration with medium degree of organization integration and high degree of functional integration. Discussion The high levels and degree of hospital/primary - community care integration of Norway, Australia and Japan are in line with what could be expected from the universalistic healthcare system in place. The medium levels of integration of Switzerland are also in line with what the Social health insurance system and, especially, the cantonal system. The low levels of integration of the USA are in line with the privatistic healthcare systems. However, a medium degree was found for functional integration probably due to its unparalleled technological advancement. Conclusions The study shows how the levels of hospital/primary-community care integration are connected to the specific healthcare system in place in each country. COVID-19 showed how complex systems like healthcare systems had to reconfigure themselves to reach high levels of integration in small time to be able to save lives and contain the spread of the virus. These results will prove useful for policymakers, healthcare and public health professionals in the task of establishing effective Networks to achieve high levels of integration in their institutions.}, } @article {pmid37154463, year = {2023}, author = {Barbhuiya, MR}, title = {Post-pandemic tourism strategies: A case of Himachal Pradesh.}, journal = {Journal of emergency management (Weston, Mass.)}, volume = {21}, number = {7}, pages = {315-337}, doi = {10.5055/jem.0709}, pmid = {37154463}, issn = {1543-5865}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; Tourism ; *Disasters ; Internationality ; }, abstract = {Tourism has always been a vulnerable industry. Minimal disturbances can halt or even destroy tourism and its associated economy. There is no dearth of research on vulnerability and resilience of the tourism industry for various tourism destinations,, and on post-disaster studies, but mainly these were limited to a city or tourist destination and focused on the destination image recovery. The primary purpose of this study is to identify different tourism stages and the local community's issues and desires associated with each stage and to propose strategies that can be used during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The district-wise monthly domestic and foreign tourist arrival data from 2008 to 2018 for Himachal Pradesh (HP) were observed. The observations reveal that HP experiences overtourism, balanced tourism, and undertourism. Two hundred seven telephonic interviews were conducted with different stakeholders such as tourism department officers, urban planners, hotel owners and managers, environmentalists, and state residents. Research themes were identified based on the interview responses, and these themes were further validated using a review of newspaper reports and court and local administration order. This study identified nine broad problems and patterns associated with tourism and proposes 17 sustainable tourism strategies that the post-COVID-19 crisis can follow. The proposed strategies give special attention to confidence-building of tourist and residents, image building of the location, and increasing tourism number sustainably and tourism earning of the state. This study investigates problems and suggests sustainable strategies for a state in India for the first time and may be used for policy decision and regional sustainable tourism development plan.}, } @article {pmid37154452, year = {2023}, author = {Brambilla, A and Brusamolin, E and Johnson, AA and Scullica, F and Capolongo, S}, title = {Lessons from the first wave of COVID-19 in Italy: A collection of design strategies to face pandemic situations in healthcare facilities.}, journal = {Journal of emergency management (Weston, Mass.)}, volume = {21}, number = {7}, pages = {167-184}, doi = {10.5055/jem.0746}, pmid = {37154452}, issn = {1543-5865}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Delivery of Health Care ; Hospitals ; Italy/epidemiology ; }, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aims to provide metadesign indications for the improvement of healthcare facilities, emphasizing the role of spatial design in the management of epidemic health emergencies.

STUDY DESIGN: A parallel mixed-method study including literature reviews, survey creation, and survey distribution was performed.

METHODS: Data were collected between August and October 2020 capturing information related to the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing a review of existing literature, a comparison of existing hospital planning guidelines and assessment tools, and distribution of a survey to analyze design changes within selected Italian hospitals.

RESULTS: Among the changes identified, the most frequently identified included the conversion of space into intensive care units, space expansion, and the usage of wayfinding strategies for the reduction of cross-contamination risks. There was limited attention given to solutions with a human-centered approach, and those that addressed physical and psychological well-being of all users, including healthcare staff. The solutions were collected and systematized into a list of metadesign guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS: The resulting indications represent a starting point for developing design solutions to aid healthcare facilities in facing future epidemics.}, } @article {pmid36946172, year = {2023}, author = {Wang, X and Guan, F and Miller, H and Byazrova, MG and Cndotti, F and Benlagha, K and Camara, NOS and Lei, J and Filatov, A and Liu, C}, title = {The role of dendritic cells in COVID-19 infection.}, journal = {Emerging microbes & infections}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {2195019}, doi = {10.1080/22221751.2023.2195019}, pmid = {36946172}, issn = {2222-1751}, mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Cytokines ; Immunity, Innate ; Dendritic Cells ; }, abstract = {The persistent pandemic of coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) currently poses a major infectious threat to public health around the world. COVID-19 is an infectious disease characterized by strong induction of inflammatory cytokines, progressive lung inflammation, and potential multiple organs dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 infection is closely related to the innate immune system and adaptive immune system. Dendritic cells (DCs), as a "bridge" connecting innate immunity and adaptive immunity, play many important roles in viral diseases. In this review, we will pay special attention to the possible mechanism of dendritic cells in human viral transmission and clinical progression of diseases, as well as the reduction and dysfunction of DCs in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, so as to understand the mechanism and immunological characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection.}, } @article {pmid36345649, year = {2023}, author = {Kadowaki, L and Wister, A}, title = {Older Adults and Social Isolation and Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrated Review of Patterns, Effects, and Interventions.}, journal = {Canadian journal on aging = La revue canadienne du vieillissement}, volume = {42}, number = {2}, pages = {199-216}, doi = {10.1017/S0714980822000459}, pmid = {36345649}, issn = {1710-1107}, support = {LSA 94473/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; LSA 94473/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; }, mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Loneliness ; Pandemics ; Longitudinal Studies ; *COVID-19 ; Canada/epidemiology ; Social Isolation ; }, abstract = {A scoping review was conducted to identify patterns, effects, and interventions to address social isolation and loneliness among community-dwelling older adult populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also integrated (1) data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) and (2) a scan of Canadian grey literature on pandemic interventions. CLSA data showed estimated relative increases in loneliness ranging between 33 and 67 per cent depending on age/gender group. International studies also reported increases in levels of loneliness, as well as strong associations between loneliness and depression during the pandemic. Literature has primarily emphasized the use of technology-based interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness. Application of socio-ecological and resilience frameworks suggests that researchers should focus on exploring the wider array of potential pandemic age-friendly interventions (e.g., outdoor activities, intergenerational programs, and other outreach approaches) and strength-based approaches (e.g., building community and system-level capacity) that may be useful for reducing social isolation and loneliness.}, } @article {pmid35441296, year = {2023}, author = {Fu, W and Abbass, K and Niazi, AAK and Zhang, H and Basit, A and Qazi, TF}, title = {Assessment of sustainable green financial environment: the underlying structure of monetary seismic aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international}, volume = {30}, number = {22}, pages = {61496-61510}, pmid = {35441296}, issn = {1614-7499}, mesh = {Humans ; *Pandemics ; *COVID-19 ; Costs and Cost Analysis ; }, abstract = {The study aims to assess a sustainable green financial environment by exploring the underlying structure of monetary seismic aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is qualitative and uses a review of literature, primary data collection methods, and qualitative analysis techniques as the study's overall design. The data is collected by one-to-one interview using a matrix style questionnaire from a panel of experts based on the purposive sampling technique. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) combined with Matrices' Impacts Cruise's Multiplication Appliquée a UN Classement (MICMAC) is used for assessment, modeling, and analysis of data. The monetary aftershocks, namely, "more cash in hand required," "decreased travel costs," "shift to more certain or fixed revenue streams," "lower rent costs," "more zealous monitoring of cash collection cycle," and "decreased entertainment costs," occupy level I (top of the model being least critical shocks), and "tedious regulations" occupy level VIII (bottom of the model being the most vital). Other aftershocks form the middle of the model being moderate critical. Analysis of MICMAC shows that monetary seismic aftershocks high fees for assistance regarding SOPs, tedious regulations, and more downtime due to pandemic alerts are independent. This study addresses the core issue from within the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides new important information regarding the structure of a sustainable green financial environment that is useful for economists, financial analysts, commercial and central bankers, accountants and finance managers from the organization's public/and private sectors, local and international community, and researchers of the domain. It provides an informative structural model and classification of critical aftershocks. There are specific data/methodological/resource-related limitations of the study. The study's data are collected from a focus group; the study's methodology is qualitative and indicates relations among variables that do not quantify the associations. The study is a typical initiative of academic researchers with limited financial/physical resources; therefore, the generalizability of the study results is accordingly limited. The study is based on original, essential data and innovatively and creatively approaches the problem. It provides a unique model of an unprecedented phenomenon for reverberating the sustainable green financial environment.}, } @article {pmid37160339, year = {2023}, author = {Baker, JA}, title = {2022 Year in Review: Pediatric Asthma.}, journal = {Respiratory care}, volume = {}, number = {}, pages = {}, doi = {10.4187/respcare.10913}, pmid = {37160339}, issn = {1943-3654}, abstract = {Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children. Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by variable, reversible airway obstruction and hyper-responsive airways. There is a high economic burden due to a child having poorly controlled asthma with one or more asthma exacerbations resulting in an emergency department visit or hospitalization in a year. Publications on diagnosis, treatment, and management of pediatric asthma are ongoing with over 2,549 papers published from January-November 2022. The intent of this paper is to summarize 8 key topics that have prompted discussions with local, regional, and national asthma experts due to a shift in clinical practice or lessons learned from the recent pandemic that may have future application.}, } @article {pmid37159828, year = {2023}, author = {Liu, B and You, J and Huang, L and Chen, M and Shen, Y and Xiong, L and Zheng, S and Huang, M}, title = {The 100 Most-Cited Articles in COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Based on Web of Science: A Bibliometric Analysis.}, journal = {Infection and drug resistance}, volume = {16}, number = {}, pages = {2625-2646}, doi = {10.2147/IDR.S408377}, pmid = {37159828}, issn = {1178-6973}, abstract = {PURPOSE: To perform a bibliometric analysis of the 100 most-cited articles (T100 articles) on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy to characterize current trends.

METHODS: The data of the bibliometric analysis were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database on January 29, 2023, and the results were sorted in descending order by citations. Two researchers independently extracted the characteristics of the top 100 cited articles, including title, author, citations, publication year, institution, country, author keywords, Journal Cited Rank, and impact factor. Excel and VOSviewer were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS: The T100 articles ranged from 79 to 1125 citations, with a mean of 208.75. The T100 articles were contributed by 29 countries worldwide, of which the USA ranked first with 28 articles and 5417 citations. The T100 articles were published in 61 journals; the top three citations were VACCINES, NATURE MEDICINE, and EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF EPIDEMIOLOGY, and the number of citations was 2690, 1712, and 1644, respectively. Professor Sallam, M(n=4) from Jordan, is the author who participated in the most published articles. Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (n=8) had the most T100 articles.

CONCLUSION: It is the first bibliometric analysis of the T100 articles in the field of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. We carefully analyzed and described the characteristics of these T100 articles, which provide ideas for further strengthening COVID-19 vaccination and fighting against the epidemic in the future.}, } @article {pmid37159776, year = {2023}, author = {Saxena, P and Muthu, J}, title = {COVID-19 and Sickle Cell Disease: Two Independent Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism.}, journal = {Cureus}, volume = {15}, number = {4}, pages = {e37226}, doi = {10.7759/cureus.37226}, pmid = {37159776}, issn = {2168-8184}, abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been widely documented as a multi-systemic illness and associated with an increased incidence of thromboses. Likewise, sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hematologic disease responsible for widespread effects on the vasculature and is also associated with elevated thrombotic risk. In this review, we examine the incidence rates of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in SCD and COVID-19 independently and review the mechanisms of coagulopathy associated with both diseases. We describe the possible associations and commonalities between VTE mechanisms, as both diseases cause widespread inflammation that influences each tenet of Virchow's triad. We also discuss current anticoagulation guideline recommendations for the prevention of VTE events in each of these diseases. We report on current literature to date describing rates of VTE in SCD-COVID-19 patients and outline prospective areas of research to further understand the possible synergistic influence of coagulopathy in these patients. The association between SCD and COVID-19 remains a largely under-researched area of coagulopathy in current hematology and thrombotic literature, and our report lays out potential future prospects in the field.}, } @article {pmid37159682, year = {2023}, author = {Luthra, S and Agrawal, S and Kumar, A and Sharma, M and Joshi, S and Kumar, J}, title = {Psychological well-being of young adults during COVID-19 pandemic: Lesson learned and future research agenda.}, journal = {Heliyon}, volume = {9}, number = {5}, pages = {e15841}, doi = {10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15841}, pmid = {37159682}, issn = {2405-8440}, abstract = {Psychological and mental well-being has become a topic of concern worldwide after the hit of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has triggered enormous global health care vulnerabilities and resulted in full and partial lockdowns to