@article {pmid40872752,
year = {2025},
author = {Loor-Giler, A and Galdo-Novo, S and Nuñez, L},
title = {Enteric Viruses in Turkeys: A Systematic Review and Comparative Data Analysis.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17081037},
pmid = {40872752},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {543.A.XVI.25.//Universidad de Las Américas, Quito - Ecuador./ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Turkeys/virology ; *Poultry Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; Genetic Variation ; },
abstract = {Enteric diseases represent one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in poultry production, especially in turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), significantly affecting the profitability of the sector. Turkey enteric complex (PEC) is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by diarrhea, stunting, poor feed conversion, and increased mortality in young turkeys. Its aetiologia includes multiple avian enteric viruses, including astrovirus, rotavirus, reovirus, parvovirus, adenovirus, and coronavirus, which can act singly or in co-infection, increasing clinical severity. This study performs a systematic review of the literature on these viruses and a meta-analysis of their prevalence in different regions of the world. Phylogenetic analyses were used to assess the genetic diversity of the main viruses and their geographical distribution. The results show a wide regional and genetic variability, which underlines the need for continuous epidemiological surveillance. Health and production implications are discussed, proposing control strategies based on biosecurity, targeted vaccination, and optimized nutrition. These findings highlight the importance of integrated management to mitigate the impact of CSF in poultry.},
}

Animals
*Turkeys/virology
*Poultry Diseases/virology/epidemiology
Phylogeny
Genetic Variation

@article {pmid40872614,
year = {2025},
author = {Marinescu, M and Zalaru, C},
title = {Benzimidazole-Pyrimidine Hybrids: Synthesis and Medicinal Properties.},
journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {18},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ph18081225},
pmid = {40872614},
issn = {1424-8247},
abstract = {Background: Heterocyclic compounds represent a key class of compounds in medicinal chemistry. Both benzimidazoles and pyrimidines are essential heterocycles in medicinal chemistry, with various therapeutic properties. Recent literature presents a series of hybrid heterocyclic compounds, as their medicinal properties are generally improved compared to those of single heterocyclic rings. Methods: A literature search was conducted across relevant scientific literature from peer-reviewed sources, using keywords, including "benzimidazole", "pyrimidine", "Biginelli", "benzimidazole-pyrimidine hybrids", "anticancer", "antiviral", "antimicrobial", and "anti-inflammatory". Results: In this review, benzimidazole-pyrimidine hybrids are reported as anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiulcer, antidepressant, anti-Alzheimer's, or antioxidant agents, with activities even better than those of existing drugs. The IC50 values for these anticancer hybrids are in the nanomolar range, which signifies potent anticancer agents. It can be mentioned here that the anticancer hybrid Abemaciclib, as a CDK4/6 inhibitor for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer, was approved in 2017. The antimicrobial activity of these hybrids proved especially potent against a broad variety of infections, with MIC values in the range of µM or even nM. Moreover, these hybrids exhibited good antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2, HIV-1, and the hepatitis C virus. The hybrids also functioned as JAK3 inhibitors, COX-1 inhibitors, and MAO-A inhibitors. Conclusions: This review presents synthesis methods of benzimidazole-pyrimidine hybrids, their medicinal properties, and SAR studies reported in the last 20 years. For almost every therapeutic activity, SAR studies have revealed the essential presence of a substituent on the aromatic rings or between the two benzimidazole and pyrimidine nuclei.},
}

@article {pmid40872326,
year = {2025},
author = {Pati, I and Masiello, F and Piccinini, V and De Fulvio, L and Massari, MS and De Angelis, V and Cruciani, M},
title = {Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Infectious Diseases: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14080816},
pmid = {40872326},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *Venous Thromboembolism/epidemiology/etiology/prevention & control ; Risk Factors ; COVID-19/complications ; *Communicable Diseases/complications ; Anticoagulants/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; HIV Infections/complications ; Tuberculosis/complications ; },
abstract = {Systemic or localized infections increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). All types of infection can elevate the risk of VTE thrombosis, although some appear to increase risk more than others. In the current narrative review, we seek to overview the available evidence related to the epidemiology of VTE caused by infections. We focused on patients with infection in community setting or hospitalized, on patients with COVID-19, HIV infection, tuberculosis, HCV infection, and CMV infection, as well as on individuals with other types of infection that might increase the risk of VTE. Moreover, we tried to evaluate how the risk of VTE in person with different types of infections could be addressed in clinical practice with the use of anticoagulants. Extended VTE prophylaxis may not be warranted for all infections, but may be very helpful for some, such as those with intra-abdominal infection, systemic bloodstream infection, lower respiratory infection, and symptomatic urinary tract infection.},
}

Humans
*Venous Thromboembolism/epidemiology/etiology/prevention & control
Risk Factors
COVID-19/complications
*Communicable Diseases/complications
Anticoagulants/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
HIV Infections/complications
Tuberculosis/complications

@article {pmid40872323,
year = {2025},
author = {Nagasawa, M},
title = {Perspectives on the History and Epidemiology of the Varicella Virus Vaccine and Future Challenges.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14080813},
pmid = {40872323},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *Chickenpox Vaccine/immunology/history/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *Chickenpox/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Herpesvirus 3, Human/immunology ; History, 20th Century ; History, 21st Century ; Japan/epidemiology ; Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {The varicella attenuated virus vaccine, developed in Japan in the 1970s, has dramatically reduced the number of pediatric chickenpox cases over the past 30 years due to its widespread use. However, a small number of cases of chickenpox, shingles, aseptic meningitis, and acute retinal necrosis caused by vaccine strains have been reported. There are also issues that need to be addressed, such as breakthrough infections and the persistence of the preventive effect of vaccination. In addition, there is the possibility of the emergence of revertants or mutations in the vaccine strain. In recent years, subunit vaccines have been developed, their immune-stimulating effects have been demonstrated, and they are being applied clinically. In addition, development of an mRNA varicella vaccine is underway. In this review, the history and impact of the varicella vaccine are overviewed, as well as its future challenges.},
}

Humans
*Chickenpox Vaccine/immunology/history/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*Chickenpox/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Herpesvirus 3, Human/immunology
History, 20th Century
History, 21st Century
Japan/epidemiology
Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology
Vaccination

@article {pmid40872258,
year = {2025},
author = {Livieratos, A and Kagadis, GC and Gogos, C and Akinosoglou, K},
title = {AI Methods Tailored to Influenza, RSV, HIV, and SARS-CoV-2: A Focused Review.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14080748},
pmid = {40872258},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Influenza, Human/diagnosis/therapy ; *HIV Infections/diagnosis/therapy ; *Artificial Intelligence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/diagnosis/therapy ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Machine Learning ; },
abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques-ranging from hybrid mechanistic-machine learning (ML) ensembles to gradient-boosted decision trees, support-vector machines, and deep neural networks-are transforming the management of seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Symptom-based triage models using eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Random Forests, as well as imaging classifiers built on convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have improved diagnostic accuracy across respiratory infections. Transformer-based architectures and social media surveillance pipelines have enabled real-time monitoring of COVID-19. In HIV research, support-vector machines (SVMs), logistic regression, and deep neural network (DNN) frameworks advance viral-protein classification and drug-resistance mapping, accelerating antiviral and vaccine discovery. Despite these successes, persistent challenges remain-data heterogeneity, limited model interpretability, hallucinations in large language models (LLMs), and infrastructure gaps in low-resource settings. We recommend standardized open-access data pipelines and integration of explainable-AI methodologies to ensure safe, equitable deployment of AI-driven interventions in future viral-outbreak responses.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*Influenza, Human/diagnosis/therapy
*HIV Infections/diagnosis/therapy
*Artificial Intelligence
SARS-CoV-2
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/diagnosis/therapy
Neural Networks, Computer
Machine Learning

@article {pmid40871554,
year = {2025},
author = {Jin, J and Quan, M and Cao, X and Zhang, Y and Xu, X and Wang, Z},
title = {PROTACs in Antivirals: Current Advancements and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30163402},
pmid = {40871554},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Proteolysis/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Hepacivirus/drug effects ; Ubiquitination ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/drug effects ; Proteolysis Targeting Chimera ; },
abstract = {Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has demonstrated remarkable progress in tumor therapy, attributed to its unique capability of catalytically degrading "undruggable" targets. In the context of the ongoing global health threat posed by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the application scope of PROTAC technology has been gradually extended to the field of antiviral research. Unlike traditional small molecule inhibitors, PROTAC employs an "event-driven" mechanism to achieve ubiquitination-mediated degradation of target proteins. This approach holds great promise in addressing challenges such as drug resistance, targeting host-dependent factors, and high-mutagenic viral proteins. This article provides a comprehensive review of the application progress of PROTAC technology in antiviral therapy, with a particular emphasis on successful cases across a range of viral pathogens, including Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), influenza virus, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Additionally, it delves into the challenges encountered in this field and ponders future development directions. Through the integration of the latest research findings, this article proposes a dual-target degradation strategy based on the host-pathogen interaction interface. These proposals aim to offer theoretical support for the clinical translation of antiviral PROTACs.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
*Proteolysis/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Hepacivirus/drug effects
Ubiquitination
Host-Pathogen Interactions/drug effects
Proteolysis Targeting Chimera

@article {pmid40871409,
year = {2025},
author = {Papaneri, A and Cui, G and Chen, SH},
title = {Next-Generation Nucleic Acid-Based Diagnostics for Viral Pathogens: Lessons Learned from the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13081905},
pmid = {40871409},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {1ZICES102506//NIH Intramural Research Program/ ; 1ZIAES103310//NIH Intramural Research Program/ ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), catalyzed unprecedented innovation in molecular diagnostics to address critical gaps in rapid pathogen detection. Over the past five years, CRISPR-based systems, isothermal amplification techniques, and portable biosensors have emerged as transformative tools for nucleic acid detection, offering improvements in speed, sensitivity, and point-of-care applicability compared to conventional PCR. While numerous reviews have cataloged the technical specifications of these platforms, a critical gap remains in understanding the strategic and economic hurdles to their real-world implementation. This review provides a forward-looking analysis of the feasibility, scalability, and economic benefits of integrating these next-generation technologies into future pandemic-response pipelines. We synthesize advances in coronavirus-specific diagnostic platforms and attempt to highlight the need for their implementation as a cost-saving measure during surges in clinical demand. We evaluate the feasibility of translating these technologies-particularly CRISPR-Cas integration with recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA)-into robust first-line diagnostic pipelines for novel viral threats. By analyzing the evolution of diagnostic strategies during the COVID-19 era, we aim to provide strategic insights and new directions for developing and deploying effective detection platforms to better confront future viral pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid40871375,
year = {2025},
author = {Esposito, S and Masetti, M and Calanca, C and Canducci, N and Rasmi, S and Fradusco, A and Principi, N},
title = {Recent Changes in the Epidemiology of Group A Streptococcus Infections: Observations and Implications.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13081871},
pmid = {40871375},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {CUP I83C22001810007//NextGenerationEU-MUR M4C2.I.1.3PNRR/ ; },
abstract = {Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) is a major human pathogen capable of causing infections ranging from mild pharyngitis and impetigo to severe invasive diseases such as bacteremia, necrotizing fasciitis, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). Historically, the incidence of GAS infections declined during the early antibiotic era but began rising again from the early 2000s, driven partly by the emergence of hyper-virulent strains such as emm1 and emm12. From 2005 onward, significant increases in GAS infections were reported globally, accompanied by rising antibiotic resistance, particularly to macrolides and tetracyclines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread public health measures led to a sharp decline in GAS infections, including invasive cases, but this trend reversed dramatically in late 2022 and 2023, with surges exceeding pre-pandemic levels, notably in children. Recent data implicate factors such as "immunity debt," viral co-infections, and the spread of virulent clones like M1UK. Looking forward, continued surveillance of GAS epidemiology, virulence factors, and resistance patterns is critical. Moreover, the emergence of GAS isolates with reduced susceptibility to beta-lactams underscores the need for vigilance despite the absence of fully resistant strains. The development of an effective vaccine remains an urgent priority to reduce GAS disease burden and prevent severe outcomes. Future research should focus on vaccine development, molecular mechanisms of virulence, and strategies to curb antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40871305,
year = {2025},
author = {Vlok, M and Majer, A},
title = {Global Prevalence of Non-Polio Enteroviruses Pre- and Post COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13081801},
pmid = {40871305},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Non-polio enteroviruses continue to cause numerous epidemics world-wide that range from mild to severe disease, including acute flaccid paralysis, meningitis, severe respiratory infections and encephalitis. Using publicly available data we present a comprehensive global and regional temporal distribution of non-polio enteroviruses, with a focus on highly prevalent genotypes. We found that regional distribution did vary compared to global prevalence where the top prevalent genotypes included CVA6 and EV-A71 in Asia, EV-D68 in North America and CVA13 in Africa, while E-30 was prevalent in Europe, South America and Oceania. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic did interrupt non-polio enterovirus detections globally, and cases rebounded in subsequent years, albeit at lower prevalence and with decreased genotype diversity. Environmental surveillance for non-polio enteroviruses does occur and has been used in some regions as an early-warning system; however, further development is needed to effectively supplement potential gaps in clinical surveillance data. Overall, monitoring for non-polio enteroviruses is critical to identify true incidence, improve understanding of genotype circulation, provide an early warning system for emerging/re-emerging genotypes and allow for better outbreak control.},
}

@article {pmid40871295,
year = {2025},
author = {Caliman-Sturdza, OA and Soldanescu, I and Gheorghita, RE},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Pneumonia: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13081791},
pmid = {40871295},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The development of severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia is characterized by extensive lung inflammation, which, in turn, leads to respiratory distress and a decline in blood oxygen levels. Hospital admission, along with intensive care or ventilator usage, becomes necessary because this condition leads to serious respiratory problems. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic methods, and current therapeutic options for pneumonia caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The pathophysiological process of severe pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 infection is characterized by direct lung damage from viral replication, an excessive immune system response, inflammation, impaired gas exchange, and multi-organ failure. The coexistence of various medical conditions leads to substantial lung impairment, resulting in hypoxia and respiratory failure, which can ultimately lead to fatal outcomes. The diagnosis of severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia is made through a combination of clinical, radiologic, and laboratory findings. A multifaceted approach integrating antiviral therapy, corticosteroids, oxygen supplementation, ventilatory management, and immunomodulation is imperative to control inflammation and enhance clinical outcomes. Early intervention, meticulous monitoring, and personalized care are paramount for enhancing survival and mitigating complications in critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.},
}

@article {pmid40871289,
year = {2025},
author = {Ramos-Cela, M and Forconi, V and Antonelli, R and Manenti, A and Montomoli, E},
title = {Exploring the Use of Viral Vectors Pseudotyped with Viral Glycoproteins as Tools to Study Antibody-Mediated Neutralizing Activity.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13081785},
pmid = {40871289},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic human RNA viruses from probable zoonotic origin have highlighted the relevance of epidemic preparedness as a society. However, research in vaccinology and virology, as well as epidemiologic surveillance, is often constrained by the biological risk that live virus experimentation entails. These also involve expensive costs, time-consuming procedures, and advanced personnel expertise, hampering market access for many drugs. Most of these drawbacks can be circumvented with the use of pseudotyped viruses, which are surrogate, non-pathogenic recombinant viral particles bearing the surface envelope protein of a virus of interest. Pseudotyped viruses significantly expand the research potential in virology, enabling the study of non-culturable or highly infectious pathogens in a safer environment. Most are derived from lentiviral vectors, which confer a series of advantages due to their superior efficiency. During the past decade, many studies employing pseudotyped viruses have evaluated the efficacy of vaccines or monoclonal antibodies for relevant pathogens such as HIV-1, Ebolavirus, Influenza virus, or SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the applications of pseudotyped viruses when evaluating the neutralization capacity of exposed individuals, or candidate vaccines and antivirals in both preclinical models and clinical trials, to further help develop effective countermeasures against emerging neutralization-escape phenotypes.},
}

@article {pmid40870742,
year = {2025},
author = {Qin, X and Yang, X and Deng, Y and Guo, L and Li, Z and Yang, X and Hou, C},
title = {Cannabis Derivatives as Ingredients of Functional Foods to Combat the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods14162830},
pmid = {40870742},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {Lower respiratory infections predominantly affect children under five and the elderly, with influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial viruses (including SARS-CoV-2) being the most common pathogens. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant global public health challenges. While vaccination remains crucial, its efficacy is limited, highlighting the need for complementary approaches to mitigate immune hyperactivation in severe COVID-19 cases. Medicinal plants like Cannabis sativa show therapeutic potential, with over 85% of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients in China receiving traditional herbal treatments. This review explores the antiviral applications of cannabis and its bioactive compounds, particularly against SARS-CoV-2, while evaluating their pharmacological and food industry potential. Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and fatty acids. Cannabinoids may block viral entry, modulate immune responses (e.g., suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines via CB2/PPARγ activation), and alleviate COVID-19-related psychological stress. There are several challenges with pharmacological and food applications of cannabinoids, including clinical validation of cannabinoids for COVID-19 treatment and optimizing cannabinoid solubility/bioavailability for functional foods. However, rising demand for health-focused products presents market opportunities. Genetic engineering to enhance cannabinoid yields and integrated pharmacological studies are needed to unlock cannabis's full potential in drug discovery and nutraceuticals. Cannabis-derived compounds hold promise for antiviral therapies and functional ingredients, though further research is essential to ensure safety and efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid40870447,
year = {2025},
author = {Pecoraro, L and Di Muri, E and Lezzi, G and Picciolo, S and De Musso, M and Piazza, M and Bosoni, M and Indrio, F},
title = {Nasal Irrigations: A 360-Degree View in Clinical Practice.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medicina61081402},
pmid = {40870447},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nasal Lavage/methods ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Rhinitis/therapy ; Sinusitis/therapy ; Respiratory Tract Infections/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Nasal irrigation (NI) is an effective, safe, low-cost strategy for treating and preventing upper respiratory tract diseases. High-volume, low-pressure saline irrigations are the most efficient method for removing infectious agents, allergens, and inflammatory mediators. This article reviews clinical evidence supporting NI use in various conditions: nasal congestion in infants, recurrent respiratory infections, acute and chronic rhinosinusitis, allergic and gestational rhinitis, empty nose syndrome, and post-endoscopic sinus surgery care. NI improves symptoms, reduces recurrence, enhances the efficacy of topical drugs, and decreases the need for antibiotics and decongestants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NI has also been explored as a complementary measure to reduce viral load. Due to the safe profile and mechanical cleansing action on inflammatory mucus, nasal irrigations represent a valuable adjunctive treatment across a wide range of sinonasal conditions.},
}

Humans
*Nasal Lavage/methods
COVID-19/prevention & control
Rhinitis/therapy
Sinusitis/therapy
Respiratory Tract Infections/therapy
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40869923,
year = {2025},
author = {Tan, X and Li, J and Cui, B and Wu, J and Toischer, K and Hasenfuß, G and Xu, X},
title = {CRISPR/Cas13-Based Anti-RNA Viral Approaches.},
journal = {Genes},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/genes16080875},
pmid = {40869923},
issn = {2073-4425},
mesh = {*CRISPR-Cas Systems ; Humans ; *RNA, Viral/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics/drug effects ; *RNA Viruses/genetics/drug effects ; COVID-19/virology/therapy ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Virus Replication ; Animals ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses pose significant threats to global health, causing diseases such as COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, influenza, and dengue. These viruses are characterized by high mutation rates, rapid evolution, and the ability to evade traditional antiviral therapies, making effective treatment and prevention particularly challenging. In recent years, CRISPR/Cas13 has emerged as a promising antiviral tool due to its ability to specifically target and degrade viral RNA. Unlike conventional antiviral strategies, Cas13 functions at the RNA level, providing a broad-spectrum and programmable approach to combating RNA viruses. Its flexibility allows for rapid adaptation of guide RNAs to counteract emerging viral variants, making it particularly suitable for highly diverse viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and HIV. This review discusses up-to-date applications of Cas13 in targeting a wide range of RNA viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, HIV, dengue, influenza, and other RNA viruses, focusing on its therapeutic potential. Preclinical studies have demonstrated Cas13's efficacy in degrading viral RNA and inhibiting replication, with applications spanning prophylactic interventions to post-infection treatments. However, challenges such as collateral cleavage, inefficient delivery, potential immunogenicity, and the development of an appropriate ethical framework must be addressed before clinical translation. Future research should focus on optimizing crRNA design, improving delivery systems, and conducting rigorous preclinical evaluations to enhance specificity, safety, and therapeutic efficacy. With continued advancements, Cas13 holds great promise as a revolutionary antiviral strategy, offering novel solutions to combat some of the world's most persistent viral threats.},
}

*CRISPR-Cas Systems
Humans
*RNA, Viral/genetics
SARS-CoV-2/genetics/drug effects
*RNA Viruses/genetics/drug effects
COVID-19/virology/therapy
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Virus Replication
Animals

@article {pmid40869890,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdel-Motaal, KA and Chun, S},
title = {Governance in Crisis: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Global Health Governance During COVID-19.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph22081305},
pmid = {40869890},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Global Health ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Health Policy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed major structural deficiencies in global health governance, including stark inequities in vaccine access, intervention timing, and mortality outcomes. While economic resources played a role, the influence of governance performance remains insufficiently examined. This study addresses a significant gap by integrating governance metrics with pandemic response data to assess how governance quality, independent of income level, affected national outcomes. Although the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker (OxCGRT) dataset has been widely used to document policy responses, this study offers a novel contribution by linking these policy interventions with governance performance and evaluating their joint effect on health outcomes and vaccine equity.

METHODS: This mixed-methods study combines quantitative analysis of global datasets with a qualitative literature review. Quantitative data were mainly obtained from the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker (OxCGRT), the World Bank's Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGIs), and World Bank/WHO databases. A governance performance index was constructed using two WGI components: Government Effectiveness and Regulatory Quality. Countries were grouped into high, medium, or low governance categories. Statistical tests included ANOVA, Kaplan Meier survival analysis, and multivariable OLS regression. The qualitative component reviewed 45 academic and institutional sources on governance performance during COVID-19.

RESULTS: Countries with high governance performance had earlier public health interventions, lower mortality, and broader vaccine coverage, independent of income level. Kaplan Meier analysis revealed faster school closures in these countries (p < 0.01). Multivariable regression showed governance remained a significant predictor after adjusting for income and health spending. Qualitative findings highlighted recurring weaknesses in legal enforceability, intergovernmental coordination, and global financing mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS: Governance performance had a decisive impact on pandemic outcomes. The COVID-19 crisis revealed the need for robust governance systems capable of responding to complex emergencies that extend beyond the health sector into institutional, economic, and social spheres.},
}

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

@article {pmid40869505,
year = {2025},
author = {Starshinova, A and Belyaeva, E and Irtyuga, O and Sefiyeva, G and Mitrofanova, L and Makarov, I and Makarova, T and Kulpina, A and Kudlay, D},
title = {Tuberculosis in Pregnant Women After COVID-19: Features of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment (Narrative Review).},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm14165681},
pmid = {40869505},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {№ 075-15-2025-013//Financial support was provided by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation/ ; },
abstract = {Tuberculosis remains a serious infectious disease that causes over 1.3 million deaths annually. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the global incidence of tuberculosis has increased to 10.8 million cases. Pregnant women represent a particularly vulnerable population requiring tailored approaches to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of tuberculosis. SARS-CoV-2 infection may have impacted existing clinical protocols. Implementing updated methods of tuberculosis prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in pregnant women could help reduce adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. The aim of this review was to explore potential modifications in tuberculosis management among pregnant women in the post-COVID-19 era, including co-infection with SARS-CoV-2. Methods: A review was conducted, incorporating a systematic literature search across major international databases, including Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search covered publications released between December 2019 and September 2024 and used targeted keywords such as "COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2", "tuberculosis" OR "TB" OR "latent tuberculosis infection" OR "pulmonary tuberculosis", and "pregnancy" OR "pregnant women". Results: Pregnant women living with HIV are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis, which can negatively affect both maternal and perinatal outcomes. Screening for tuberculosis is recommended for all HIV-positive pregnant women, even in the absence of clinical symptoms. Notably, immunological testing before and during pregnancy facilitates the timely and safe detection of tuberculosis infection, enabling preventive and therapeutic interventions during any stage of gestation and the early postpartum period, for the benefit of both mother and child. Drug-drug interactions play a significant role in tuberculosis management, both among anti-tuberculosis agents and with medications for comorbid conditions. Current knowledge of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antituberculosis agents, coupled with therapeutic drug monitoring, supports the development of individualized and effective treatment regimens, which are particularly critical for pregnant patients. Recommendations for managing tuberculosis in pregnant women after COVID-19 infection include measuring D-dimer levels, performing echocardiography, and consulting cardiologists to prevent treatment-related complications. Conclusions: Pregnant women represent a distinct subgroup of tuberculosis patients requiring individualized management. Changes observed in tuberculosis progression and treatment responses in pregnant women before and after SARS-CoV-2 infection should inform therapeutic choices, especially in cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis treated with bedaquiline. COVID-19 has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk, which may heighten the likelihood of adverse drug reactions in this population, especially given the limited therapeutic options. Further research is required to assess the long-term outcomes of latent tuberculosis infection in pregnant women and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of novel regimens for drug-resistant TB during pregnancy.},
}

@article {pmid40869221,
year = {2025},
author = {Elhabyan, A and Khan, MUS and Elhabyan, A and Abukhatwa, R and Uzair, H and Jimenez, C and Elhabyan, A and Chan, YL and Shabana, B},
title = {Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Activity of Cyclophilin Inhibitors Against Coronaviruses: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26167900},
pmid = {40869221},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {BB/T00875X/1//UKRI/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Cyclophilins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; Humans ; Animals ; *Cyclosporine/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19/virology ; *Coronavirus/drug effects ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology ; },
abstract = {Cyclophilins (Cyps), a family of peptidyl-prolyl isomerases, play essential roles in the life cycle of coronaviruses by interacting with viral proteins and modulating host immune responses. In this systematic review, we examined cell culture, animal model, and clinical studies assessing the anti-viral efficacy of cyclosporine A (CsA, PubChem CID: 5284373) and its non-immunosuppressive derivatives against coronaviruses. CsA demonstrated robust anti-viral activity in vitro across a broad range of coronaviruses, including but not limited to HCoV-229E, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, with potent EC50 values in the low micromolar range. Non-immunosuppressive analogs such as Alisporivir and NIM811 exhibited similar inhibitory effects. In vivo, CsA treatment significantly reduced viral load, ameliorated lung pathology, and improved survival in coronavirus-infected animals. Clinical studies further indicated that CsA administration was associated with improved outcomes in COVID-19 patients, including reduced mortality and shorter hospital stays. Mechanistic studies revealed that CsA disrupts the formation of viral replication complexes, interferes with critical Cyp-viral protein interactions, and modulates innate immune signaling. These findings collectively demonstrate the therapeutic potential of cyclophilin inhibitors as broad-spectrum anti-virals against current and emerging coronaviruses.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Cyclophilins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
Humans
Animals
*Cyclosporine/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Virus Replication/drug effects
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19/virology
*Coronavirus/drug effects
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology

@article {pmid40869200,
year = {2025},
author = {Lesgards, JF and Cerdan, D and Perronne, C},
title = {Do Long COVID and COVID Vaccine Side Effects Share Pathophysiological Picture and Biochemical Pathways?.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26167879},
pmid = {40869200},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/physiopathology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/metabolism ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {COVID affects around 400 million individuals today with a strong economic impact on the global economy. The list of long COVID symptoms is extremely broad because it is derived from neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, and renal dysfunctions and damages. We review here these pathophysiological manifestations and the predictors of this multi-organ pathology like the persistence of the virus, altered endothelial function, unrepaired tissue damage, immune dysregulation, and gut dysbiosis. We also discuss the similarities between long COVID and vaccine side effects together with possible common immuno-inflammatory pathways. Since the spike protein is present in SARS-CoV-2 (and its variants) but also produced by the COVID vaccines, its toxicity may also apply to all mRNA or adenoviral DNA vaccines as they are based on the production of a very similar spike protein to the virus. After COVID infection or vaccination, the spike protein can last for months in the body and may interact with ACE2 receptors and mannan-binding lectin (MBL)/mannan-binding lectin serine protease 2 (MASP-2), which are present almost everywhere in the organism. As a result, the spike protein may be able to trigger inflammation in a lot of organs and systems similar to COVID infection. We suggest that three immuno-inflammatory pathways are particularly key and responsible for long COVID and COVID vaccine side effects, as it has been shown for COVID, which may explain in large part their strong similarities: the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), the kininogen-kinin-kallikrein system (KKS), and the lectin complement pathway. We propose that therapeutic studies should focus on these pathways to propose better cures for both long COVID as well as for COVID vaccine side effects.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/physiopathology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/metabolism
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40868989,
year = {2025},
author = {Cimmino, G and D'Elia, S and Morello, M and Titolo, G and Luisi, E and Solimene, A and Serpico, C and Conte, S and Natale, F and Loffredo, FS and Bianco, A and Golino, P},
title = {Cardio-Pulmonary Features of Long COVID: From Molecular and Histopathological Characteristics to Clinical Implications.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26167668},
pmid = {40868989},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology/pathology ; Lung/pathology/virology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Long COVID is a persistent post-viral syndrome with the significant involvement of both the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, often extending well beyond the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging evidence has highlighted a spectrum of chronic alterations, including endothelial dysfunction, microvascular inflammation, perivascular fibrosis, and in some cases, the persistence of viral components in the cardiac and pulmonary tissues. At the molecular level, a sustained inflammatory milieu-characterized by elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 6 (IL-6)-and chronic platelet hyperreactivity contribute to a prothrombotic state. These mechanisms are implicated in microvascular damage, cardiac strain, and impaired gas exchange, correlating with clinical manifestations such as fatigue, dyspnea, chest discomfort, and reduced exercise capacity. In certain patients, especially those who were not hospitalized during the acute phase, cardiac MRI and myocardial biopsy may reveal signs of myocardial inflammation and autonomic dysregulation. These often subclinical cardiovascular alterations underscore the need for improved diagnostic strategies, integrating molecular and histopathological markers during post-COVID evaluations. Recognizing persistent inflammatory and thrombotic activity may inform risk stratification and individualized therapeutic approaches. The interdependence between pulmonary fibrosis and cardiac dysfunction highlights the importance of multidisciplinary care. In this context, molecular and tissue-based diagnostics play a pivotal role in elucidating the long-term cardio-pulmonary sequelae of long COVID and guiding targeted interventions. Early identification and structured follow-up are essential to mitigate the burden of chronic complications in affected individuals.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
*Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology/pathology
Lung/pathology/virology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40868961,
year = {2025},
author = {Florea, CE and Bălaș-Maftei, B and Rotaru, A and Abudanii, PL and Vieru, ST and Grigoriu, M and Stoian, A and Manciuc, C},
title = {Multiorgan Involvement and Particularly Liver Injury in Long COVID: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15081314},
pmid = {40868961},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing evidence has shown that SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause long-term symptoms, collectively known as long COVID, and that patients with mild COVID-19 can also be affected by persistent fatigue, cognitive impairment, dyspnea, muscle pain, etc. Recent research has also found multiple organ systems, including the liver, to be significant sites of ongoing injury. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on organ involvement during and after COVID-19, with particular focus on early and delayed hepatic manifestations and associated risk factors. Pathogenesis appears to be multifactorial, involving direct virus action, the body's immune-mediated inflammatory response, microvascular damage, drug-induced hepatotoxicity, and, in some cases, reactivation or exacerbation of pre-existing liver conditions. The hepatic clinical manifestations range from asymptomatic elevations of transaminases to cholangiopathy and even fibrosis. These can persist or progress for months after the initial infection with SARS-CoV-2 is resolved, requiring prolonged monitoring and interdisciplinary care, especially in the presence of metabolic disorders, obesity, or hepatitis. Neurological, cardiovascular, and other sequelae are discussed in parallel, with attention paid to common inflammatory and thrombotic pathways. This review concludes that liver dysfunction is of particular interest in long-COVID due to the liver's central role in metabolism and inflammation. While further research is being conducted into organ-specific and systemic interactions, the available evidence makes a compelling case for extended monitoring and integrated management strategies post infection.},
}

@article {pmid40868652,
year = {2025},
author = {Medani, IE and Hakami, AM and Chourasia, UH and Rahamtalla, B and Adawi, NM and Fadailu, M and Salih, A and Abdelmola, A and Hashim, KN and Dawelbait, AM and Yousf, NM and Hassan, NM and Ali, NA and Rizig, AA},
title = {Telemedicine in Obstetrics and Gynecology: A Scoping Review of Enhancing Access and Outcomes in Modern Healthcare.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13162036},
pmid = {40868652},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Telemedicine has transformed obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to synthesize evidence on the adoption, effectiveness, barriers, and technological innovations of telemedicine in OB/GYN across diverse healthcare settings. This scoping review synthesized 63 peer-reviewed studies (2010-2023) using PRISMA-ScR guidelines to map global applications, outcomes, and challenges. Key modalities included synchronous consultations, remote monitoring, AI-assisted triage, tele-supervision, and asynchronous communication. Results demonstrated improved access to routine care and mental health support, with outcomes for low-risk pregnancies comparable to in-person services. Adoption surged >500% during pandemic peaks, stabilizing at 9-12% of services in high-income countries. However, significant disparities persisted: 43% of rural Sub-Saharan clinics lacked stable internet, while socioeconomic, linguistic, and cultural barriers disproportionately affected vulnerable populations (e.g., non-English-speaking, transgender, and refugee patients). Providers reported utility but also screen fatigue (41-68%) and diagnostic uncertainty. Critical barriers included fragmented policies, reimbursement variability, data privacy concerns, and limited evidence from conflict-affected regions. Sustainable integration requires equity-centered design, robust policy frameworks, rigorous longitudinal evaluation, and ethically validated AI to address clinical complexity and systemic gaps.},
}

@article {pmid40868618,
year = {2025},
author = {Wypych-Ślusarska, A and Krupa-Kotara, K and Słowinski, J and Yanakieva, A and Grajek, M},
title = {The Impact of Polycrisis on Healthcare Systems-Analyzing Challenges and the Role of Social Epidemiology.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13161998},
pmid = {40868618},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {In response to contemporary challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, armed conflicts, and economic instability, healthcare systems worldwide are increasingly confronted with multifaceted and overlapping crises-collectively referred to as polycrisis. These interconnected threats amplify one another, placing unprecedented strain on healthcare infrastructure, governance, and equity. The COVID-19 pandemic alone led to an estimated 16.3 million missed hospitalizations in 2020 and 14.7 million in 2021, revealing systemic vulnerabilities and deepening social inequalities. Armed conflicts, such as in Syria and Gaza, have devastated healthcare access. In Gaza, by mid-2024, 85% of the population had been forcibly displaced, with only 17 of 36 hospitals partially functioning and over 885 healthcare workers killed. Climate change further exacerbates health burdens, with over 86% of urban residents globally exposed to harmful air pollution, contributing to 1.8 million deaths annually. This study introduces a novel perspective by applying social epidemiology to the analysis of polycrisis. While the existing literature often emphasizes political or economic dimensions, our approach highlights how overlapping crises affect population health, social vulnerability, and systemic resilience. By integrating sociodemographic and environmental data, social epidemiology supports crisis-resilient care models, targeted interventions, and equitable health policies. We argue for a stronger mandate to invest in data infrastructure, enhance surveillance, and embed social determinants into health system responses.},
}

@article {pmid40868601,
year = {2025},
author = {Kalogerakou, T and Antoniadou, M},
title = {Enhancing Dentists' Resilience and Occupational Sustainability Through Physical Activity: A Systematic Review in the Post-Pandemic Context.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13161985},
pmid = {40868601},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dental professionals face high levels of occupational stress, which intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to increased burnout, diminished well-being, and signs of accelerated biological aging. This systematic review explores the role of physical activity as a protective factor for mental and physical health, with a focus on promoting resilience and long-term occupational sustainability in a post-pandemic volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies published between 2000 and 2024 were identified through PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library using MeSH terms related to dentistry, physical activity, stress management, and occupational health. Of 850 records screened, 28 studies were included: 24 cross-sectional, 2 systematic reviews, 1 retrospective, and 1 case-control study. Inclusion and quality appraisal followed standardized criteria.

RESULTS: The included studies consistently showed that physical activity was associated with reduced burnout, improved psychological well-being, enhanced postural function, and potential markers of slowed biological aging in dental professionals. Several studies reported moderate-to-strong associations, with effect sizes ranging from small improvements in perceived stress scores to substantial reductions in MSD prevalence. Interventions combining exercise with ergonomic education, stress management, and institutional support demonstrated the stronger and more consistent benefits for professional sustainability.

CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity, when integrated into comprehensive workplace wellness frameworks, significantly enhances the mental and physical resilience of dental professionals. Embedding movement, ergonomics, and psychosocial support into practice environments offers a promising strategy for safeguarding long-term workforce sustainability and improving public health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40868563,
year = {2025},
author = {Bailo, P and Gibelli, F and Cennamo, M and Pesel, G and Basello, E and Spasari, T and Ricci, G},
title = {Violence Against Healers in Italy: A Medico-Legal Inquiry into Patient Aggression.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13161947},
pmid = {40868563},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {In recent years, Italy has experienced a significant increase in violence against healthcare workers, mirroring a global trend. Manifesting as verbal, physical, psychological, and material aggression, this phenomenon endangers both personnel safety and the foundational principles of the National Health Service (SSN) as outlined in Article 32 of the Italian Constitution. The escalation-most acute in emergency departments, psychiatric units, inpatient wards, and community services-affects a broad spectrum of professionals, compromising care quality and institutional integrity. Data from the FNOMCeO-CENSIS Report 2023-2024 reveal over 18,000 reported incidents in 2024, with verbal assaults disproportionately affecting female nursing staff. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated systemic vulnerabilities, heightening user dissatisfaction and psychological strain among healthcare providers. In response, legislative actions-such as Law No. 113/2020 and Decree-Law No. 137/2024-aim to strengthen prevention, monitoring, and penal measures. This article examines legal, institutional, and organizational responses, including on-the-ground and hospital-based strategies to mitigate violence. Adopting a multidisciplinary perspective, it analyzes recent policy developments, regional dynamics, and victim-perpetrator profiles, arguing that safeguarding healthcare environments is both a public security priority and an ethical imperative essential to preserving the dignity of care work and the resilience of the health system.},
}

@article {pmid40868207,
year = {2025},
author = {Soczyńska, J and Topola, E and Gawełczyk, W and Viscardi, S and Butyńska, K and Woźniak, S},
title = {Intestinal Dysbiosis and Immune Activation in Kawasaki Disease and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: A Comparative Review of Mechanisms and Clinical Manifestations.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomedicines13081953},
pmid = {40868207},
issn = {2227-9059},
abstract = {Although Kawasaki disease (KD) has been known since 1967, when it was first described by Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki, the literature indicates that its etiology-similarly to Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)-remains largely unclear and is the subject of intensive research. The former disease, which typically occurs shortly after infection, is the most common cause of primary vasculitis in children worldwide. The latter-MIS-C, associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection-is characterized by involvement of at least two organ systems. Undoubtedly, both diseases exhibit heightened immune system activity and significant inflammation. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed towards alterations in the microbiota observed in affected patients. We undertake an analysis and systematic review of the current scientific findings in this field. We emphasize the role of the microbiome-which encompasses not only bacteria but also viruses, fungi, parasites, and archaea-in health and disease. We track its composition from birth and highlight factors influencing its diversity, such as the mode of delivery. We recognize the microbiome's role in reducing the likelihood of allergic diseases in children and its interactions with the immune system. In addition to comparing the pathomechanisms and clinical manifestations of KD and MIS-C, also known as Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome (PIMS), we investigate microbiota alterations in these conditions and analyze potential applications of microbiome knowledge, for example, in identifying diagnostic markers. We also point out potential directions for future research, such as the use of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in MIS-C and the long-term changes in the gut microbiota associated with these diseases, which remain poorly documented and currently represent significant gaps in knowledge.},
}

@article {pmid40868058,
year = {2025},
author = {Gonzaga, A and Martinez-Navarrete, G and Macia, L and Anton-Bonete, M and Cahuana, G and Tejedo, JR and Zorrilla-Muñoz, V and Fernandez-Jover, E and Andreu, E and Eguizabal, C and Pérez-Martínez, A and Solano, C and Hernández-Blasco, LM and Soria, B},
title = {Non-Viral Therapy in COVID-19: Where Are We Standing? How Our Experience with COVID May Help Us Develop Cell Therapies for Long COVID Patients.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomedicines13081801},
pmid = {40868058},
issn = {2227-9059},
support = {ICI21/00016//Instituto de Salud Carlos III/ ; AVI-GVA-COVID19-068//Valencian Agency of Innovation(AVI)/ ; GVA-COVID19/2021-047//Valencian Agency of Innovation(AVI)/ ; NA//Al-Andalus Biopharma SL/ ; },
abstract = {Objectives: COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has infected over 777 million individuals and led to approximately 7 million deaths worldwide. Despite significant efforts to develop effective therapies, treatment remains largely supportive, especially for severe complications like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Numerous compounds from diverse pharmacological classes are currently undergoing preclinical and clinical evaluation, targeting both the virus and the host immune response. Methods: Despite the large number of articles published and after a preliminary attempt was published, we discarded the option of a systematic review. Instead, we have done a description of therapies with these results and a tentative mechanism of action. Results: Preliminary studies and early-phase clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) in mitigating severe lung damage in COVID-19 patients. Previous research has shown MSCs to be effective in treating various pulmonary conditions, including acute lung injury, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, ARDS, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer. Their ability to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair supports their potential role in managing COVID-19-related complications. This review demonstrates the utility of MSCs in the acute phase of COVID-19 and postulates the etiopathogenic role of mitochondria in Long-COVID. Even more, their combination with other therapies is also analyzed. Conclusions: While the therapeutic application of MSCs in COVID-19 is still in early stages, emerging evidence suggests promising outcomes. As research advances, MSCs may become an integral part of treatment strategies for severe COVID-19, particularly in addressing immune-related lung injury and promoting recovery. However, a full pathogenic mechanism may explain or unify the complexity of signs and symptoms of Long COVID and Post-Acute Sequelae (PASC).},
}

@article {pmid40867903,
year = {2025},
author = {Hallan, SS and Ferrara, F and Sguizzato, M and Cortesi, R},
title = {Cyclodextrin-Based Nanotransporters as a Versatile Tool to Manage Oxidative Stress-Induced Lung Diseases.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox14081007},
pmid = {40867903},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {Oxidative stress is one of the key elements in lung-related complications such as cystic fibrosis, acute lung injury, pulmonary hypertension, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, chronic airway diseases, lung cancer, COVID-19, and many others. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapy can be considered as supportive alternatives in their management. However, most naturally derived antioxidants face issues with poor aqueous solubility and stability, which hinder their clinical utility. Remarkably, local pulmonary delivery circumvents the severe limitations of oral delivery, including hepatic first-pass metabolism and organ toxicity, and enables a higher drug payload in the lungs. Here, in this review, we present cyclodextrin as a potential drug carrier for pulmonary administration, exploring the possibilities of its surface modification, complexation with other drug transporters, and loading of cannabidiols, siRNA, and antibodies as future trends. However, the lack of a robust physiological model for assessing the efficacy of lung-oriented drug targeting is a significant concern in its path to clinical and commercial success.},
}

@article {pmid40867811,
year = {2025},
author = {Villegas Sánchez, V and Chávez Pacheco, JL and Palacios Arreola, MI and Sierra-Vargas, MP and Colín Godinez, LA and Ahumada Topete, VH and Fernández Plata, R and Higuera-Iglesias, A and Lara-Lemus, R and Aquino-Gálvez, A and Torres-Espíndola, LM and Castillejos-López, M},
title = {A Systematic Review of Genetic Variants in Glutathione S-Transferase Genes and Their Dual Role in SARS-CoV-2 Pathogenesis: From Acute Respiratory Complications to Long COVID.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox14080912},
pmid = {40867811},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {Oxidative stress (OS) occurs when there is an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, leading to disruptions in cellular signaling and causing damage to molecules. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes are crucial for maintaining redox balance by facilitating glutathione conjugation. Increased oxidative damage has been noted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and its persistence may be linked to the onset of long COVID. This systematic review aimed to assess the relationship between GST gene polymorphisms and the prognosis of COVID-19, including long COVID. Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, a thorough search was carried out in MEDLINE, CENTRAL, PubMed, and EMBASE for studies published from September 2020 to February 2025. Out of an initial selection of 462 articles, ten studies (four concerning COVID-19 severity and six related to long COVID) satisfied the inclusion criteria. The findings regarding GST polymorphisms were not consistent, especially concerning the GSTM1 and GSTT1 isoforms. Nevertheless, evidence indicates a sustained state of oxidative stress in patients with long COVID. The majority of research has focused on cytosolic GSTs, while the functions of microsomal and mitochondrial GST families remain largely unexplored. These findings suggest that further research into the various GST subfamilies and their genetic variants is necessary to enhance our understanding of their impact on COVID-19 severity and the pathophysiology of long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid40867607,
year = {2025},
author = {Babbarwal, A and Singh, M and Sen, U and Tyagi, M and Tyagi, SC},
title = {Kidney Stone Disease: Epigenetic Dysregulation in Homocystinuria and Mitochondrial Sulfur Trans-Sulfuration Ablation Driven by COVID-19 Pathophysiology.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom15081163},
pmid = {40867607},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {AR-71789; HL139047; and DK116591//National Institute Health (NIH)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism/virology/physiopathology ; *Kidney Calculi/metabolism/genetics/etiology ; *Mitochondria/metabolism ; *Epigenesis, Genetic ; *Homocystinuria/genetics/metabolism/complications ; *Sulfur/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has brought to light unexpected complications beyond respiratory illness, including effects on kidney function and a potential link to kidney stone disease (KSD). This review proposes a novel framework connecting COVID-19-induced epigenetic reprogramming to disruptions in mitochondrial sulfur metabolism and the pathogenesis of kidney stones. We examine how SARS-CoV-2 interferes with host methylation processes, leading to elevated homocysteine (Hcy) levels and impairment of the trans-sulfuration pathway mechanisms particularly relevant in metabolic disorders such as homocystinuria. These epigenetic and metabolic alterations may promote specific kidney stone subtypes through disrupted sulfur and oxalate handling. Additionally, we explore the role of COVID-19-associated gut dysbiosis in increasing oxalate production and driving calcium oxalate stone formation. Together, these pathways may accelerate the transition from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic KSD, linking viral methylation interference, sulfur amino acid imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction, and microbiota changes. Unlike earlier reviews that address these mechanisms separately, this work offers an integrated hypothesis to explain post-viral renal lithogenesis and highlights the potential of targeting sulfur metabolism and redox pathways as therapeutic strategies for KSD triggered or aggravated by viral infections such as COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism/virology/physiopathology
*Kidney Calculi/metabolism/genetics/etiology
*Mitochondria/metabolism
*Epigenesis, Genetic
*Homocystinuria/genetics/metabolism/complications
*Sulfur/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40867207,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, X and Chen, Z and Xu, Z and Liu, X and Lv, Y and Yu, L},
title = {The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Depression in College Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Brain sciences},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/brainsci15080875},
pmid = {40867207},
issn = {2076-3425},
support = {24YJC890065//Humanities and Social Science Fund of Ministry of Education of China/ ; },
abstract = {Objectives: Depression is a significant and growing global concern with substantial societal impact. College students, being particularly vulnerable to depression, necessitate exploration of physical activity (PA) as a potential mitigating factor. This study aims to examine the relationship between PA and depression in college students. Methods: Studies were identified through systematic searches of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science. The Pearson correlation coefficient was utilized to assess the PA-depression relationship. Heterogeneity was evaluated, and subgroup analyses were performed. Sensitivity analysis via the leave-one-out method was conducted. Quality assessment was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute literature quality assessment approach, resulting in the inclusion of 38 high-quality, low-risk studies. Results: A significant negative correlation between PA and depression was found (r = -0.238; 95% CI, -0.307 to -0.173; p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed notable PA-depression correlations post-COVID-19 (r = -0.324; 95% CI, -0.493 to -0.132; p < 0.001), in developing countries (r = -0.202; 95% CI, -0.213 to -0.191; p < 0.001), and in physical education majors (r = -0.390; 95% CI, -0.589 to -0.147; p < 0.001). Moderate PA levels were associated with reduced depression (r = -0.428; 95% CI, -0.708 to -0.031; p = 0.035). Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that PA is significantly and negatively associated with depression and plays a crucial role in alleviating depression in college students. Various influences, including the pandemic, national development level, student major, and PA intensity, moderate this relationship. Post-pandemic, developing countries, physical education majors, and moderate PA intensity emerged as optimal factors for enhancing the depression-alleviating effects of PA.},
}

@article {pmid40867179,
year = {2025},
author = {Amate, JJS and Luque de la Rosa, A and Tadeu, P},
title = {Educational Discrimination and Challenges of Inclusion During the Pandemic: The Case of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from an International Perspective.},
journal = {Brain sciences},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/brainsci15080848},
pmid = {40867179},
issn = {2076-3425},
abstract = {Background: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of educational systems in ensuring inclusive schooling, especially for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Disruptions to daily routines, the shift to remote learning, and the suspension of specialized services intensified pre-existing inequalities and affected the educational continuity and well-being of this group. Methods: This narrative review analyzes the educational discrimination experienced by students with ASD during the pandemic. A structured search was conducted across databases including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ERIC, Dialnet, and Google Scholar. Sixteen empirical studies published between 2020 and 2024 were selected based on criteria such as open access, focus on compulsory education, and direct analysis of pandemic-related exclusion. Results: The findings reveal four key challenges: unequal access to digital resources, the interruption of support services, increased family burden, and limited institutional responses. These factors contributed to emotional distress, regression in skills, and reduced participation in educational and social settings. Conclusions: The review concludes that the pandemic acted as a magnifying glass for structural barriers already present in inclusive education. Moving forward, educational systems must develop flexible, sustainable, and equity-oriented frameworks to ensure that students with ASD are not left behind during future crises.},
}

@article {pmid40866305,
year = {2025},
author = {Bombardieri, AM and Denoue, CF},
title = {Cervical sympathetic block to treat Long COVID: a scoping review.},
journal = {Regional anesthesia and pain medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/rapm-2025-106879},
pmid = {40866305},
issn = {1532-8651},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID is a complex and poorly understood condition characterized by persistent symptoms such as autonomic dysfunction, fatigue, neurocognitive impairment, and olfactory disturbances. Current treatments offer limited and inconsistent benefits. Dysregulation of the sympathetic nervous system is increasingly recognized as a contributor to Long COVID pathophysiology. Cervical sympathetic block (CSB), a procedure that modulates sympathetic tone, has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach.

OBJECTIVE: To review the existing literature on CSB, for Long COVID, focusing on symptom outcomes, proposed mechanisms, and procedural considerations.

EVIDENCE REVIEW: A structured literature search across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies published between 2022 and March 2025 reporting on CSB in adults with Long COVID. Eligible articles included case reports, case series, observational studies, and one randomized controlled trial evaluating symptom outcomes after the procedure.

FINDINGS: Sixteen studies involving 224 patients were included. Most reported improvement in fatigue, brain fog, and autonomic symptoms, including reduced heart rate and enhanced orthostatic tolerance. Cognitive and psychiatric symptoms such as memory impairment, anxiety, and depression showed variable improvement. Olfactory recovery was inconsistent and appeared to depend on symptom severity. Symptom relief was observed after both unilateral and bilateral blocks, with some responses lasting up to 1 year. No serious complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS: CSB may offer symptom relief in Long COVID, particularly for fatigue, brain fog, and dysautonomia. However, the evidence remains preliminary and limited by small sample sizes and methodological heterogeneity. Controlled trials are needed to establish efficacy and patient selection criteria.},
}

@article {pmid40866295,
year = {2025},
author = {Ammit, M and River, J and Montebello, M and Dawson, A},
title = {Factors that facilitate treatment uptake for women with alcohol use disorders in high-income countries: A systematic review.},
journal = {Women's health (London, England)},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {17455057251363713},
pmid = {40866295},
issn = {1745-5065},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Alcoholism/therapy/psychology ; Developed Countries ; Motivation ; *Alcohol-Related Disorders/therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Harmful alcohol use among some groups of women is increasing globally. Despite being susceptible to negative health impacts, women are less likely than men to seek treatment and can face barriers of access, acceptability, and affordability to treatment.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to identify key factors affecting treatment access for women with alcohol use disorders (AUDs), and to identify individual, social, and organizational factors that facilitate treatment uptake.

DESIGN: Systematic review with narrative synthesis, guided by a social-ecological framework to identify organizational, individual, and societal enablers of treatment uptake among women with AUDs.

METHODS: Six electronic databases were systematically searched for studies published between 2000 and 2024 in high-income countries. Data on study design, sample characteristics, interventions, and outcomes were extracted and synthesized.

RESULTS: Twenty-five studies, conducted in various countries, identified factors affecting women's treatment uptake. Key themes included individual motivators linked to problem perception, alcohol use severity, age, relationships, and family cohesion; societal motivators influenced by social norms and relationships; and organizational themes of accessibility, acceptability, and affordability were positively affected by healthcare provider knowledge of treatment options.

CONCLUSION: Facilitating factors of treatment uptake for women with AUDs include relational and personal goals, societal environments, normative expectations, and the knowledge of alcohol treatment from individual and organizational perspectives. Sober curiosity movements, alcohol-free months, and digital strategies can positively impact women's alcohol treatment uptake.},
}

Humans
Female
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology
*Health Services Accessibility
*Alcoholism/therapy/psychology
Developed Countries
Motivation
*Alcohol-Related Disorders/therapy

@article {pmid40865105,
year = {2025},
author = {Izeli Portilho, A and De Gaspari, E},
title = {Is meningococcal B vaccination needed in the post-COVID-19 world?.},
journal = {Biomedica : revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud},
volume = {45},
number = {3},
pages = {359-368},
doi = {10.7705/biomedica.7423},
pmid = {40865105},
issn = {2590-7379},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Meningococcal Vaccines ; *Neisseria meningitidis, Serogroup B/immunology ; *Meningococcal Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Meningitis, Meningococcal/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Vaccination ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {Neisseria meningitidis is the main cause of bacterial meningitis worldwide and is transmitted through respiratory secretions. Meningitis is a serious public health problema because of its high morbidity and mortality rates and the risk of causing epidemics. Although vaccines are available to prevent meningococcal disease, serogroup B infections are still challenging, given that many countries do not include meningococcal B vaccines in their national immunization programs. In addition, recent data suggests somewhat sustained N. meningitidis B infections during the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing levels of meningococcal disease after its control. These findings agree with previous observations indicating that respiratory viruses facilitate respiratory bacterial infections. This essay intends to present epidemiological data on meningococcal disease and discusses studies exploring why the prevention of bacterial and viral infections is an intricate subject.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Meningococcal Vaccines
*Neisseria meningitidis, Serogroup B/immunology
*Meningococcal Infections/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Meningitis, Meningococcal/prevention & control/epidemiology
Vaccination
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Global Health

@article {pmid40864750,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, L and Xu, S},
title = {Pseudovirus as an Emerging Reference Material in Molecular Diagnostics: Advancement and Perspective.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {47},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb47080596},
pmid = {40864750},
issn = {1467-3045},
abstract = {In recent years, the persistent emergence of novel infectious pathogens (epitomized by the global coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-2019) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)) has propelled nucleic acid testing (NAT) into an unprecedented phase of rapid development. As a key technology in modern molecular diagnostics, NAT achieves precise pathogen identification through specific nucleic acid sequence recognition, establishing itself as an indispensable diagnostic tool across diverse scenarios, including public health surveillance, clinical decision-making, and food safety control. The reliability of NAT systems fundamentally depends on reference materials (RMs) that authentically mimic the biological characteristics of natural viruses. This critical requirement reveals significant limitations of current RMs in the NAT area: naked nucleic acids lack the structural authenticity of viral particles and exhibit restricted applicability due to stability deficiencies, while inactivated viruses have biosafety risks and inter-batch heterogeneity. Notably, pseudovirus has emerged as a novel RM that integrates non-replicative viral vectors with target nucleic acid sequences. Demonstrating superior performance in mimicking authentic viral structure, biosafety, and stability compared to conventional RMs, the pseudovirus has garnered substantial attention. In this comprehensive review, we critically summarize the engineering strategies of pseudovirus platforms and their emerging role in ensuring the reliability of NAT systems. We also discuss future prospects for standardized pseudovirus RMs, addressing key challenges in scalability, stability, and clinical validation, aiming to provide guidance for optimizing pseudovirus design and practical implementation, thereby facilitating the continuous improvement and innovation of NAT technologies.},
}

@article {pmid40864414,
year = {2025},
author = {Al-Kuraishy, HM and Abdelnaby, MA and Papadakis, M and Alexiou, A and Batiha, GE},
title = {The potential role of carvedilol in COVID-19 management: perspective and take-away.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40864414},
issn = {1568-5608},
abstract = {Carvedilol (CVL) is a lipophilic third generation non-selective beta and alpha-1 adrenoceptor blocker. CVL has pleiotropic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting of inflammatory signaling pathways. In virtue of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, CVL can ameliorate COVID-19 and related complications. Therefore, the aim of the present review was to illustrate the potential role of CVL in the management of COVID-19. CVL has anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity by inhibiting 3-CLpro, which is involved in the replication of this virus. CVL inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, improves anti-inflammatory cytokines, inhibit β/αadrenoceptors-mediated immune activation, and suppression of sympathetic over-activity. Thus, CVL may prevent the association between sympathetic and cytokine storms in COVID-19. These verdicts suggest that CVL through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blocking of β/αadrenoceptors, might be a possible candidate against COVID-19-induced inflammatory changes, oxidative stress, and the development of dysautonomia. In conclusion, CVL could be a possible drug in the management of COVID-19 by attenuating the development of cytokine and sympathetic storms.},
}

@article {pmid40863226,
year = {2025},
author = {Denegri, A and Dall'Ospedale, V and Covani, M and Pruc, M and Szarpak, L and Niccoli, G},
title = {Cardiovascular Complications of COVID-19 Disease: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {40863226},
issn = {2079-9721},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had a profound impact on global health, extending beyond pulmonary complications. Cardiovascular involvement in COVID-19 is multifactorial and may be influenced by viral load, inflammatory response, and pre-existing comorbidities.

DISCUSSION: Acute complications include myocardial injury, arrhythmias, acute coronary syndromes (ACS), heart failure, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, myopericarditis, and cardiac arrest. Notably, atrial fibrillation (AF) emerges as a frequent arrhythmic complication, particularly among critically ill patients, and is associated with increased mortality. COVID-19-patients with concomitant ACS present more severe clinical profiles and higher rates of thrombotic events, including stent thrombosis. Cardiac arrest predominantly presents with non-shockable rhythms and is associated with dismal outcomes. COVID-19 also exacerbates heart failure, both by aggravating existing cardiac dysfunction or by precipitating de novo heart failure. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and myocarditis, although less frequent, have been reported and are often underdiagnosed due to subtle clinical presentations. Right ventricular dysfunction, linked to pulmonary involvement, has emerged as a key prognostic marker. Post-COVID-19 syndrome include persistent cardiac abnormalities such as reduced ventricular function and myocardial inflammation. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and strain echocardiography have proven useful in identifying subclinical cardiac involvement.

CONCLUSIONS: Early recognition and monitoring of cardiovascular complications are crucial for improving outcomes in patients affected by COVID-19. This review summarizes current evidence regarding cardiovascular manifestations associated with COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40862029,
year = {2025},
author = {Conching, A and Chriqui, S and Granberg, H and Patel, S and Khan, MF and Stone, L and Brown, N and Pham, M},
title = {Neurosurgery Residency Program Directors' Perspectives: A Scoping Review of Program Director Survey Responses.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {e90910},
pmid = {40862029},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Entrance to neurological surgery residency is highly competitive due to the large number of applicants vying for a limited number of spots. The process has become even more competitive in recent years, with a significant increase in applicants but a consistent number of available residency positions. Program director (PD) surveys offer valuable insights into the selection process and expectations for neurosurgical residency, guiding prospective candidates to navigate the challenging training path. We conducted a three-database scoping review confined to the last 20 years to compile all available PD survey results, excluding those released through the official National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) data. Studies were screened and selected according to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selected articles were evaluated for survey year, distribution method, response rate, question type, number of items, and content. Most importantly, survey responses were detailed and summarized. Nineteen PD survey studies were eligible for inclusion in the present review. These revealed substantial diversity in survey structure and topics addressed over the past 20 years, with response rates averaging 54%. Studies focused on PD perspectives on applicant evaluation criteria, residency training factors, and the impact of COVID-19 on the application process. Key findings included the importance of the interview process, United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) Step 2 scores, and letters of recommendation in resident selection, concerns about the impact of the USMLE Step 1 transitioning to pass/fail, and the need for enhanced research opportunities and mentorship to increase interest in neurosurgery. Residency training studies highlighted challenges related to duty hour restrictions, the importance of surgical simulation for resident education, and variations in subspecialty training experiences. The impact of COVID-19 on residency applications posed challenges for certain applicant groups during virtual interviews, and barriers remain in the post-pandemic era. Recent studies provide an in-depth look at PD perspectives on essential factors in the neurosurgery residency match, the impact of COVID-19 on recruitment, and the current state of training. Selection criteria still heavily rely on USMLE scoring, letters of recommendation, and interviews, with debates arising from the shift to pass/fail Step 1 scoring. Challenges in evaluating candidates, concerns about training quality, and the effects of the 80-hour workweek mandate are ongoing issues, while research participation is encouraged to enhance academic productivity. The pandemic has influenced the application process and led to mixed outcomes and financial barriers for some applicants despite the return to in-person interviews. These findings illustrate the continuous evolution of neurosurgical residency programs in response to various challenges and reforms.},
}

@article {pmid40861621,
year = {2025},
author = {Secades, D and Dufner Krieger, S and Hidalgo Ramos, RA and Hong, I and Ortiz, M and Mac Courtney, C},
title = {Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Patients With COVID-19: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {e88697},
pmid = {40861621},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory infection. This disease affected the healthcare system globally due to its complications related to vascular morbidity and mortality. There is a pathophysiological connection between COVID-19 and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The blood hypercoagulability, venous stasis, and endothelial dysfunction in patients with COVID-19 have been associated with a higher risk of developing DVT. In this systematic review, 15 studies were selected to determine if COVID-19 can be taken as an independent risk factor for DVT. The search was done to determine studies analyzing the incidence of DVT in patients with COVID-19. The studies chosen were observational studies between 2020 and 2025.},
}

@article {pmid40861492,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, X and Yu, X and Wang, Y and Guo, X and Wang, C and Wang, F},
title = {Respiratory diseases and the gut microbiota: an updated review.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1629005},
pmid = {40861492},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; COVID-19/microbiology ; Lung/microbiology/immunology ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/microbiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Probiotics ; Animals ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiota constitutes a vital ecosystem within the human body playing a pivotal role in immune regulation and metabolic homeostasis. Emerging research underscores a sophisticated interplay between the gut and lungs, termed the "gut-lung axis." Gut microbes exert influence over pulmonary immunity and metabolism via immune mediators (e.g., cytokines and interleukins), metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids) and direct microbial translocation. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota has been implicated in a spectrum of respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acute lung injury (ALI), Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), lung cancer, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) and tuberculosis (TB). Although multi-omics technologies have elucidated certain mechanisms underlying the gut-lung axis, numerous pathways remain to be fully delineated. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the role of gut microbiota and their metabolites in respiratory diseases and assesses their therapeutic potential. Future investigations should prioritize strategies to restore and maintain microbial homeostasis, such as dietary modifications, probiotic supplementation and fecal microbiota transplantation to pioneer novel preventive and therapeutic approaches. These summaries of advances in gut microbiology research promise better management and exploration of therapeutic strategies for respiratory diseases.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
Dysbiosis/microbiology
COVID-19/microbiology
Lung/microbiology/immunology
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/microbiology
SARS-CoV-2
Probiotics
Animals
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/microbiology

@article {pmid40860776,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, B and Li, R and Liu, Q and Jin, S and Wei, H and Xu, M and Zhang, Y and Liu, Y},
title = {Effect of Pituitary-Target Gland Axis on RAAS in the Context of COVID-19.},
journal = {International journal of medical sciences},
volume = {22},
number = {13},
pages = {3439-3453},
pmid = {40860776},
issn = {1449-1907},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/metabolism ; *Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pituitary Gland/metabolism/physiopathology ; *Pituitary-Adrenal System/physiopathology/metabolism ; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System ; Thyroid Gland/metabolism ; Water-Electrolyte Balance/physiology ; Blood Pressure/physiology ; },
abstract = {The pituitary gland is a very important endocrine gland in the human body. It secretes and releases many hormones crucial for controlling physiological processes, such as energy metabolism, human growth and development, and reproduction. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system regulates water and salt homeostasis, controlling blood pressure. Since the discovery of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, exploring and studying its role in pathophysiology has never stopped, and patients have benefited from drug-based and clinical studies. This review focuses on the effects of the pituitary-target gland axis (pituitary-thyroid axis, pituitary-adrenal axis, pituitary-growth hormone axis, pituitary-gonadal axis) and some hormones secreted and stored by the pituitary gland on the RAAS. While considering that SARS-CoV-2 reinfection still occurs, we aim to provide new insights into water-electrolyte balance and blood pressure regulation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/metabolism
*Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Pituitary Gland/metabolism/physiopathology
*Pituitary-Adrenal System/physiopathology/metabolism
Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System
Thyroid Gland/metabolism
Water-Electrolyte Balance/physiology
Blood Pressure/physiology

@article {pmid40860064,
year = {2025},
author = {Parihar, M and W N, N and Sahana, and Biswas, R and Dehury, B and Mazumder, N},
title = {Point-of-care biosensors for infectious disease diagnosis: recent updates and prospects.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {15},
number = {36},
pages = {29267-29283},
pmid = {40860064},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {The ongoing demand for rapid, accurate, accessible diagnostics has significantly increased point-of-care (POC) biosensors. This review provides an overview of diverse biosensors, focusing on their principles, components, detection mechanisms, and applications in infectious disease diagnosis. We explore how these biosensors utilize various transduction techniques-such as current modulation, refractive index shifts, and mechanical resonance to convert biorecognition events into measurable signals. The importance of biosensors in detecting infectious diseases such as COVID-19, HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria is highlighted, particularly for early detection in resource-limited settings. However, persistent challenges remain in achieving integrated, miniaturized platforms capable of real-time, multianalyte detection. Additionally, the full potential of biosensors is yet to be realized owing to limited clinical translation, scalability issues, and insufficient integration with digital health technologies. This review identifies these critical areas for future innovation and discusses strategies to increase diagnostic accuracy, accessibility, and global health impact.},
}

@article {pmid40859782,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, T and Choi, SH},
title = {Diabetes Mellitus and Infectious Diseases: Current Evidence and Clinical Implications.},
journal = {Diabetes & metabolism journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4093/dmj.2025.0508},
pmid = {40859782},
issn = {2233-6087},
abstract = {Diabetes mellitus predisposes individuals to a broad spectrum of infections. People with diabetes face a 1.5- to 4-fold increased risk of both common and severe infections, and infections remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Chronic hyperglycemia impairs neutrophil chemotaxis, oxidative burst, and complement activation, while vascular insufficiency and neuropathy compromise tissue perfusion and barrier integrity. These defects, together with altered skin, mucosal, and gut microbiota, influence the marked susceptibility to urinary tract infections (especially renal abscess and emphysematous pyelonephritis), osteomyelitis, diabetic foot infections, pneumonia (including influenza), tuberculosis, skin and soft tissue infections, and lifethreatening syndromes such as emphysematous cholecystitis and rhino-orbital mucormycosis that are almost exclusive to people with diabetes. Outcomes from infections are worse in diabetes. Although the core therapeutic principles align with those for patients without diabetes, management should be individualized. Glycemic control should balance infection risk and hypoglycemia; antimicrobial dosing should account for renal function and drug interactions; and strict antimicrobial stewardship is required. If needed, prompt debridement and multidisciplinary intervention are necessary to mitigate complications and reduce mortality. Preventive care relies on comprehensive vaccination (influenza, pneumococcus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2], hepatitis B, herpes zoster, and Tdap/Td) and regular foot surveillance with offloading to avert ulceration.},
}

@article {pmid40859188,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, L and Li, Q and Wang, J and Fu, Q and Chi, M},
title = {Effects of different interventions on anxiety disorders in children and adolescents: a systematic review and bayesian network meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {809},
pmid = {40859188},
issn = {1471-244X},
support = {KXYJS2024007//China Association for Science and Technology Graduate Student Science Popularization Ability Improvement Project/ ; CIT&TCD20180335//Beijing Municipal University Great Wall Scholar Training Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Anxiety Disorders/therapy ; Child ; Adolescent ; Bayes Theorem ; Network Meta-Analysis as Topic ; *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods ; *COVID-19 ; *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric conditions, particularly affecting children and adolescents. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of anxiety in this population has increased, making it a significant public health concern. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various interventions for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents and identify the most effective approach to mitigate the impact of these disorders.

METHODS: We conducted a thorough search of eligible randomized controlled trials across five databases: Cochrane, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed using R Studio, and the quality of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE method.

RESULTS: From 19,442 publications retrieved, 30 RCTs involving 1,711 participants were included. The results showed that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy was the most effective intervention for treating anxiety disorders in children and adolescents (MD = -3.83 [95% CrI: -9.33, 1.51]). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy was the second most effective (MD = -3.64 [95% CrI: -7.36, -0.48]), followed by Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (MD = -2.53 [95% CrI: -8.23, 3.32]) and Physical Exercise (MD = -2.16 [95% CrI: -9.99, 5.52]).

CONCLUSIONS: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) appears to be the most effective intervention for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. However, this finding should be interpreted with caution due to the overall low quality of evidence, high heterogeneity, and imprecision in the results. Future research should investigate the potential benefits of combining physical exercise or virtual reality-assisted therapies. Moreover, large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are essential to further validate and refine these findings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO, CRD42024587910.},
}

Humans
*Anxiety Disorders/therapy
Child
Adolescent
Bayes Theorem
Network Meta-Analysis as Topic
*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods
*COVID-19
*Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy

@article {pmid40858865,
year = {2025},
author = {Umar, K and Sutradhar, T and Prakash, P and Bavanilatha, M and Hemamalani, AU and Prakashini, RS and Thangam, T and Parthasarathy, K},
title = {Dengue virus: structure, genome, evolution and challenges to control and prevent transmission.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {118},
number = {9},
pages = {139},
pmid = {40858865},
issn = {1572-9699},
support = {No. 6/9-7 (328)/2023/ECD-II, VIR/COVID-19/33/2021/ECD-I).//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Dengue Virus/genetics/classification/immunology ; Humans ; *Genome, Viral ; *Dengue/transmission/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology ; Animals ; *Evolution, Molecular ; },
abstract = {Dengue virus (DENV) is a major global health threat, primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It manifests in mild to severe forms, including dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, causing significant morbidity and mortality. With four serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4), the virus exhibits rapid genetic evolution, complicating vaccine development and disease control. This review explores the structural and genomic characteristics of DENV, emphasizing its evolutionary pressures, immune evasion mechanisms, and emerging strains. The virus's adaptation to environmental and host factors has led to increased outbreaks, notably in tropical regions. Global warming and urbanization have exacerbated the spread, challenging current vector control strategies. Laboratory diagnosis remains complex, relying on molecular and serological techniques with varying sensitivity. The lack of effective antiviral drugs and universally protective vaccines highlights critical gaps in disease management. Ongoing genomic surveillance and integrated control strategies are crucial for mitigating the impact of new DENV variants. This review highlights the importance of investigating the effect of emerging dengue strains on society, as well as how environmental factors exacerbate their severity.},
}

*Dengue Virus/genetics/classification/immunology
Humans
*Genome, Viral
*Dengue/transmission/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology
Animals
*Evolution, Molecular

@article {pmid40858380,
year = {2025},
author = {van Uum, RT and Breteler, M and Hardeman, H and van de Pol, AC and Smit, K and Boeijen, JA and Ahmad, A and Rigter, F and Venekamp, RP and Rutten, FH and Zwart, DL},
title = {How Dutch initiatives to early discharge COVID-19 patients were organised during the pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {e097839},
pmid = {40858380},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy ; Netherlands/epidemiology ; *Patient Discharge ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Patient Readmission/statistics & numerical data ; Telemedicine ; Home Care Services/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The steep rise in hospital admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic put a strain on available resources and provision of adequate healthcare globally. Translocation of care to the home setting through early discharge with remote monitoring has the potential to relieve pressure on the hospital care system, reduce costs and could simultaneously benefit patients' well-being.

OBJECTIVE: Provide an overview of similarities, differences and outcomes of early discharge initiatives for COVID-19 patients in the Netherlands to foster future development of safe and effective 'hospital at home interventions'.

DESIGN: Grey and academic literature searches from 1 March 2020 to 1 December 2024 to identify initiatives that discharged COVID-19 patients early through a remote monitoring intervention.

SETTING: The Netherlands.

Hospitals that initiated an early discharge programme for COVID-19 patients.

We descriptively compared the available protocols to identify similarities and differences in the execution of the early discharge process. Next, we compared clinical outcomes as reported in available publications and retrieved from post-publication follow-up data collection.

RESULTS: We retrieved 15 protocols (55.6%) and six publications (5 retrospective cohorts, 1 randomised controlled trial) of 27 early discharge initiatives. Two initiatives provided follow-up data. Overall, initiatives were fairly similar, however, with differences in (i) patient selection, (ii) the responsible physician, (iii) the duration and parameters of monitoring and (iv) use of a dedicated monitoring centre. Readmission rates were low, and deaths did not occur except for one initiative (n=8, 3.8%). Patient satisfaction assessed by questionnaires was very high.

CONCLUSION: This study provides insights into the design and potential of early discharge initiatives with remote monitoring launched in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preliminary data suggest relatively low readmission and mortality rates, and good patient acceptance, but future research should provide definitive conclusions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
Netherlands/epidemiology
*Patient Discharge
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Patient Readmission/statistics & numerical data
Telemedicine
Home Care Services/organization & administration

@article {pmid40857586,
year = {2025},
author = {Barman, H and Kabir, ME and Borah, A and Afzal, NU and Loying, R and Sharmah, B and Ibeyaima, A and Kalita, J and Manna, P},
title = {Therapeutic Uses of Dietary Organosulfur Compounds in Response to Viral (SARS-CoV-2)/Bacterial Infection, Inflammation, Cancer, Oxidative Stress, Cardiovascular Diseases, Obesity, and Diabetes.},
journal = {Chemistry & biodiversity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e00731},
doi = {10.1002/cbdv.202500731},
pmid = {40857586},
issn = {1612-1880},
support = {CRG/2022/002891//Science and Engineering Research Board/ ; },
abstract = {Phytonutrients are widely recognized for their protective health benefits in humans. Mounting studies suggest that dietary organosulfur compounds play a significant role in preventing various pathological conditions. Organosulfur compounds, such as diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, alliin, allicin, S-allyl cysteine, and sulforaphane, possess broad pharmacological activities, making them versatile therapeutic agents. Their antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties, along with their effectiveness in managing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), obesity, and diabetes, highlight their potential as single-drug solutions for multiple health issues simultaneously. Plants belonging to Allium genus and Brassicaceae family are the most predominant sources of these compounds. This review aims to summarize the different natural sources and bioavailability of various organosulfur compounds as well as discuss the therapeutic potential of various organosulfur compounds in response to viral/bacterial infection, inflammation, cancer, oxidative stress, CVDs, obesity, and diabetes with special emphasis on SARS-CoV-2. This review also includes the effective doses as well as the mode of action underlying the therapeutic potential of specific organosulfur compound against respective pathophysiology. The outcome of this review will open new avenue for further investigation of organosulfur compounds against different pathophysiology and that will be helpful for the development of innovative therapeutics with promising health benefits.},
}

@article {pmid40581122,
year = {2025},
author = {Gonal, BN and Dalbanjan, NP and Kadapure, AJ and Shubham, KR and Praveen Kumar, SK and Arakera, SB},
title = {Present and future prospects of vaccines: protecting humanity against emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.},
journal = {Indian journal of medical microbiology},
volume = {56},
number = {},
pages = {100908},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijmmb.2025.100908},
pmid = {40581122},
issn = {1998-3646},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Vaccines have proven to be one of the most effective tools for controlling infectious diseases worldwide, significantly lowering illness and death rates caused by various pathogens. However, the emergence of new and re-emerging infectious diseases highlights the critical need for advanced vaccine technologies that can respond to dynamic, evolving health threats.

DISCUSSION: This review examines recent advances in vaccine science, with a particular emphasis on the development of next-generation platforms such as mRNA and viral vector-based vaccines, as well as advancements in formulation and delivery systems. These advances have helped overcome immune escape mechanisms, which pathogens use to avoid immune detection and reduce vaccine efficacy. The review provides an historical perspective showing how each breakthrough has influenced current strategies, such as those used during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how cumulative progress has shaped today's rapid vaccine development and deployment capabilities.

CONCLUSION: Lessons from recent vaccine innovations, combined with historical perspectives, point to a bright future in which pathogen-specific vaccine designs, personalized immune responses, and global access will all play important roles in public health. Together, these findings lay the groundwork for future progress in pandemic preparedness and global health security.},
}

@article {pmid40857408,
year = {2025},
author = {Bayarri-Olmos, R and Bain, W and Iwasaki, A},
title = {The role of complement in long COVID pathogenesis.},
journal = {JCI insight},
volume = {10},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1172/jci.insight.194314},
pmid = {40857408},
issn = {2379-3708},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *Complement System Proteins/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Immunity, Innate/immunology ; Inflammation/immunology ; Complement Activation ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Long COVID is a debilitating condition that can develop after a SARS-CoV-2 infection and is characterized by a wide range of chronic symptoms, including weakness, neurocognitive impairment, malaise, fatigue, and many others, that affect multiple organ systems. At least 10% of individuals with a previous infection may develop long COVID, which affects their ability to perform daily functions and work. Despite its severity and widespread impact, this multisystemic condition remains poorly understood. Recent studies suggest that dysregulation of the complement system, a key component of the innate immune response, may contribute to the pathogenesis of long COVID, particularly in connection with coagulation, inflammation, and vascular injury. In this Review, we examine the evidence linking complement system dysregulation to long COVID and explore its potential role in driving disease pathology.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*Complement System Proteins/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Immunity, Innate/immunology
Inflammation/immunology
Complement Activation
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40854836,
year = {2025},
author = {Sharif-Nia, H and Heidari, M and Moshtagh, M and Nabi Foodani, M and Goudarzian, AH},
title = {Post-COVID-19 depression prevalence in Iranian nurses: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {e103969},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2025-103969},
pmid = {40854836},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; Iran/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Depression/epidemiology ; *Nurses/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Male ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of post-COVID-19 depression among Iranian nurses, identify at-risk groups and provide practical recommendations for intervention.

DESIGN: In adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, encompassing studies published from 2019 to 2024. Comprehensive searches were performed across international and Iranian databases.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Scientific Information Database.

Studies meeting the following criteria were included in the analysis: (1) conducted on the population of Iranian nurses, (2) keywords explicitly included in the title or abstract, (3) studies published between 2019 and 2024, (4) published in Persian or English and (5) reported the prevalence of depression either in the entire population or differentiated by gender.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data extraction was conducted independently by two reviewers, and quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Statistical analyses were executed using random effects models to estimate pooled prevalence rates, with subgroup analyses and sensitivity tests conducted to explore sources of heterogeneity and confirm result robustness.

RESULTS: A total of 22 studies met the inclusion criteria, capturing data from various provinces across Iran. The pooled prevalence of depression among Iranian nurses post-COVID-19 was estimated at 23% (95% CI 19% to 30%), indicating a substantial mental health burden within this population. Subgroup analyses revealed notable disparities in depression rates across demographic and professional characteristics. Nurses holding advanced degrees exhibited a higher mean depression score (13.33, 95% CI 9.48 to 16.74) compared with those with bachelor's degrees. Male nurses also reported slightly higher depression scores (12.04, 95% CI 7.58 to 16.50) than their female counterparts. Furthermore, moderate depression emerged as the most common severity level, affecting 24% of nurses. Sensitivity analyses demonstrated that no single study disproportionately influenced the pooled estimates, reinforcing the reliability of the findings.

CONCLUSIONS: This review and meta-analysis illuminate the mental health challenges faced by Iranian nurses in the wake of COVID-19. With a significant proportion of nurses experiencing depression, addressing their psychological needs is imperative. Tailored interventions, such as stress management workshops, access to professional counselling and workplace policies that prioritise mental health, are essential to enhance resilience and sustain healthcare quality during future public health crises. Efforts must also focus on structural changes to create a supportive environment that fosters well-being and professional satisfaction among nurses, ultimately improving patient outcomes and overall healthcare system performance.},
}

Humans
Iran/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Depression/epidemiology
*Nurses/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Male

@article {pmid40853836,
year = {2025},
author = {Yıldız, E and Harmancı, P},
title = {Digital Support for Complex Interventions in Psychiatric Nursing: Implementation Models and Effectiveness Evaluation.},
journal = {Issues in mental health nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/01612840.2025.2531543},
pmid = {40853836},
issn = {1096-4673},
abstract = {Digital technologies are increasingly integrated into psychiatric nursing, yet a comprehensive understanding of their implementation and effectiveness remains limited. This bibliometric analysis explored the research landscape of digitally-supported interventions, focusing on models, effectiveness, and future directions. A systematic search of the Web of Science Core Collection (2019-2024) was conducted, combining bibliometric mapping with thematic analysis. Four thematic clusters emerged: (1) Digital Psychiatry and m-Health Applications, (2) Simulation and VR in Nursing Education, (3) Telemedicine and Mental Health in the COVID-19 Era, and (4) Foundational Concepts of Digital Mental Health. m-Health applications were central themes, while telemedicine's role was crucial during the pandemic. The study highlights the importance of digital technologies, especially m-health, in psychiatric nursing and underscores the need to enhance nurses' digital skills and develop effective nurse-led interventions. The analysis also identifies critical research gaps concerning clinically meaningful outcomes, cost-effectiveness, transferability, and patient/provider experiences. These findings provide a roadmap for future investigations to improve patient care.},
}

@article {pmid40853681,
year = {2025},
author = {Dionisio, DN and Torres, RA},
title = {Reducing pain into a tablet substantiating and numbing race-based mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of ethnicity in substance abuse},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-25},
doi = {10.1080/15332640.2025.2548523},
pmid = {40853681},
issn = {1533-2659},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic may have had many negative consequences, and yet a lot was left in its wake that could help shape mental health discussions in health care settings in Canada. This paper is shaped by stories told by Filipino nurses working in Northern Ontario. While there is a plethora of studies looking at mental health issues among nurses and other health care professionals in Canadian hospitals, a gap still remains in regard to the experiences of nurses and health care workers in Northern Ontario during COVID-19. This study seeks to look at the differentiated experiences of mental health among health care professionals during and after COVID-19. This qualitative study employs a narrative approach to discuss how neoliberal capitalism, gendered racism, substance use and colonialism shaped mental health outcomes among Filipino health care workers. While many studies have focused on mental health issues among health care providers, there has been minimal focus on race-based trauma and the ways in which substance use is employed to reduce mental health issues to an individual issue, leaving pharmaceutical companies free to boost their profits. This paper employs intersectional analysis to argue for a more comprehensive understanding of mental health issues among health care workers and allow an understanding of a culturally informed perspective to inform health care policies. The result to the study depicts the various forms of race-based trauma faced by Filipino health care workers and the use of over-the-counter medication to navigate themselves through the health care system. Note that the paper will employ the term healthcare workers and nurses interchangeably.},
}

@article {pmid40853591,
year = {2025},
author = {Gopalakrishnan, M and Sumathi, KV and Velegatla, SV and Muthu, Y and Sankar, P and Kanagarajan, H},
title = {Multi-strategic approaches to healthcare wastewater treatment amidst COVID-19 pandemic in India-a narrative review.},
journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40853591},
issn = {1614-7499},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in healthcare waste, including personal protective equipment (PPE), pharmaceutical residues, and viral pathogens, posing environmental and public health risks, especially in emerging economies like India. This study evaluates the environmental and health risks of healthcare wastewater during the pandemic, focusing on emerging pollutants like microplastics from PPE and pharmaceutical residues. A literature review analyzed the environmental impact, including the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, antimicrobial residues, and microplastics, and explored wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) for tracking viral spread and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The review found that traditional wastewater treatments are insufficient for emerging pollutants, while advanced methods like ozonation, nanofiltration, and hybrid approaches offer better removal efficiencies but are hindered by high costs. Cost analysis reveals that some effective methods may not be economically viable in low-resource settings. Future research should enhance treatment efficiency, reduce costs, and explore the long-term impacts of microplastics and pharmaceutical residues. The study highlights the need for robust, cost-effective wastewater management strategies to address the growing environmental and health risks in the post-pandemic era.},
}

@article {pmid40816910,
year = {2025},
author = {Pekara-, J and Kearns, PB and Janoušková, M and Šeblová, J and Kuklová, M and Kučera, M and Wolfová, K and Šeblová, D},
title = {Mental health of healthcare professionals in Czechia during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Casopis lekaru ceskych},
volume = {163},
number = {7-8},
pages = {328-333},
pmid = {40816910},
issn = {0008-7335},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; Czech Republic/epidemiology ; *Mental Health ; Burnout, Professional/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients faced a high risk of infection, staff shortages, contact with patient deaths and their own risk of infection during the pandemic. These factors greatly affected their mental health. This narrative review summarizes the results of studies published in Czech and English between 2020 and 2024 on the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of healthcare professionals in the Czechia. Of the 20 studies identified, 8 met the inclusion criteria. Studies describe symptoms of depression, stress, burnout, stigmatization, discrimination, and violence. The results show a severe impact of these factors on the mental well-being of healthcare professionals. Finally, we emphasize the need for preventive measures, including supervision, psychological assistance and support from management. An emphasis on the mental health of healthcare professionals is key to their protection and sustainability of care in crisis situations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Health Personnel/psychology
Czech Republic/epidemiology
*Mental Health
Burnout, Professional/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40814093,
year = {2025},
author = {Xie, Y and Zhou, X and Huang, D and Yao, H and Su, Z and Liu, Z and Cheng, A and Huang, Z and Li, J and Qin, R and Liu, Y and Xia, X and Song, Q and Zhao, L and Xiao, D and Wang, C},
title = {Association between e-cigarette use and COVID-19 diagnosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {2764},
pmid = {40814093},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {2022ZXJ03C02//Science and Technology Project of Heilongjiang Province of China/ ; CAMS 2021-I2M-1-010//Innovative Medicine/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Vaping/epidemiology/adverse effects ; *Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The impact of e-cigarettes on COVID-19 remains unclear. This study aims to assess the relationship between e-cigarette use and COVID-19 diagnosis and other related outcomes.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis searched studies from 2019 to April 2nd, 2024, in Medline (via OVID), EMBASE, Scopus and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for eligible observational studies.

RESULTS: Among the initially identified 1116 items, a total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed that e-cigarette use was significantly associated with higher odds of COVID-19 diagnosis (N = 14, adjusted odds ratio, OR 1.25, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.07 to 1.47, I2 = 62%). This association was more pronounced among the youth (N = 4, adjusted OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.17 to 2.72, I2 = 75%) and current e-cigarette users (N = 14, adjusted OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.55, I2 = 55%). Though the association was not significant among cohort or case-control studies at first, the robust results were shown excluding low-quality studies (N = 3, adjusted OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.50, I2 = 0%). The results remained consistent in leave-one-out analyses. Drawing from the available but limited research, no significance was observed between e-cigarette use or other COVID-19 outcomes including severe COVID-19, COVID-19-related death, symptoms or hospital admission. Heterogeneity and risk of bias should be noticed when explaining our results.

CONCLUSIONS: E-cigarette use was associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 diagnosis, particularly among youth and current users. Further high-quality evidence is needed to assess the overall health effects of e-cigarettes, with a particular focus on the youth and current users.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Vaping/epidemiology/adverse effects
*Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40813979,
year = {2025},
author = {Heise, M and Madi, M and Mattern, E and Stengler, A and Steckelberg, A},
title = {Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on working conditions of maternity staff - a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {855},
pmid = {40813979},
issn = {1471-2393},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Maternal Health Services/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Midwifery ; Personal Protective Equipment/supply & distribution ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; Obstetrics ; Working Conditions ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted healthcare systems, with a pronounced impact on maternity care. Midwives and obstetricians faced numerous structural, organizational, and subjective challenges in maintaining high-quality care under unprecedented conditions. This review examines the multifaceted effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternity staff and the challenges encountered during this period.

METHODS: This scoping review adhered to the methodologies outlined by Arksey & O'Malley and the Joanna Briggs Institute. We searched six bibliographic databases for English and German articles published between January 2020 and September 2023 that addressed the pandemic's impact on maternity staff in OECD countries. The themes and subthemes were deductively established from the extracted results, synthesized into descriptive narratives and charted within a schematic diagram. The reporting followed the PRISMA-ScR statement.

RESULTS: This scoping review included 83 articles. Key findings were categorized into the two broader topics "structural challenges" and "mental health impacts on the workforce". Structural challenges included staff shortages, restructuring, inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), transition to virtual communication, managing SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, and restrictions on accompanying persons. Mental health impacts were significant, with increased levels of anxiety, stress and moral dilemmas among staff. Despite these challenges, a strong sense of occupational solidarity was observed.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings emphasize the need for improved support systems for maternity care staff during pandemics to mitigate these adverse effects. Recommendations include better resource allocation, enhanced mental health support, and clear communication strategies to navigate future healthcare crises effectively. These results may inform pandemic preparedness for future health crises.

TRIAL REGISTRATIONS: This scoping review was registered with OSF on October 24th, 2023 and the published protocol is openly available via https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/AVYDX.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Female
Pregnancy
*Maternal Health Services/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
*Midwifery
Personal Protective Equipment/supply & distribution
*Health Personnel/psychology
Obstetrics
Working Conditions

@article {pmid40802311,
year = {2025},
author = {Ribeiro, RR and Andrade, RLP and Silva, DCD and Sthal, HC and Oliveira, JA and Regis, IM and Gonzalez, RIC},
title = {[Repercussion of the COVID-19 pandemic on tuberculosis control actions in primary health care: scoping review].},
journal = {Ciencia & saude coletiva},
volume = {30},
number = {7},
pages = {e00992024},
doi = {10.1590/1413-81232025307.00992024},
pmid = {40802311},
issn = {1678-4561},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Primary Health Care/organization & administration ; *Tuberculosis/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {This study aimed to map the scientific literature on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the execution of tuberculosis control actions in primary care. It is a scope review, guided by the method proposed by Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewers, developed from five stages. Studies that focused on the analysis of TB control actions were included, considering the studies that contextualize the scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic in the provision, management, and development of tuberculosis services, also, studies that involved the context of APS units were included. The results were classified by categories of conceptual analyses, from the analysis of thematic categorization, presented in frames and tables. The search strategy resulted in a total of 1,014 publications and, after the selection and eligibility process, 21 studies were selected. The mapping of the scientific literature of the study identified the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in all categories named as TB control actions in APS. Despite the significant impacts pointed out by the studies, it is possible and feasible to recover the response to TB in the post-pandemic period, through accelerated efforts.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Primary Health Care/organization & administration
*Tuberculosis/prevention & control/epidemiology
Pandemics

@article {pmid40801614,
year = {2025},
author = {Sonkodi, B},
title = {Underlying Piezo2 Channelopathy-Induced Neural Switch of COVID-19 Infection.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {14},
number = {15},
pages = {},
pmid = {40801614},
issn = {2073-4409},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/metabolism ; *Ion Channels/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Neurons/metabolism/pathology ; *Channelopathies/metabolism ; Pandemics ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The focal "hot spot" neuropathologies in COVID-19 infection are revealing footprints of a hidden underlying collapse of a novel ultrafast ultradian Piezo2 signaling system within the nervous system. Paradoxically, the same initiating pathophysiology may underpin the systemic findings in COVID-19 infection, namely the multiorgan SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced vascular pathologies and brain-body-wide systemic pro-inflammatory signaling, depending on the concentration and exposure to infecting SARS-CoV-2 viruses. This common initiating microdamage is suggested to be the primary damage or the acquired channelopathy of the Piezo2 ion channel, leading to a principal gateway to pathophysiology. This Piezo2 channelopathy-induced neural switch could not only explain the initiation of disrupted cell-cell interactions, metabolic failure, microglial dysfunction, mitochondrial injury, glutamatergic synapse loss, inflammation and neurological states with the central involvement of the hippocampus and the medulla, but also the initiating pathophysiology without SARS-CoV-2 viral intracellular entry into neurons as well. Therefore, the impairment of the proposed Piezo2-induced quantum mechanical free-energy-stimulated ultrafast proton-coupled tunneling seems to be the principal and critical underlying COVID-19 infection-induced primary damage along the brain axes, depending on the loci of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection and intracellular entry. Moreover, this initiating Piezo2 channelopathy may also explain resultant autonomic dysregulation involving the medulla, hippocampus and heart rate regulation, not to mention sleep disturbance with altered rapid eye movement sleep and cognitive deficit in the short term, and even as a consequence of long COVID. The current opinion piece aims to promote future angles of science and research in order to further elucidate the not entirely known initiating pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/metabolism
*Ion Channels/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Neurons/metabolism/pathology
*Channelopathies/metabolism
Pandemics
Animals

@article {pmid40801304,
year = {2025},
author = {Ellen, A},
title = {From Stagnation to Strategy: Challenges in Advancing Long COVID Research.},
journal = {Journal of evaluation in clinical practice},
volume = {31},
number = {5},
pages = {e70180},
pmid = {40801304},
issn = {1365-2753},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/complications/epidemiology/therapy ; *Biomedical Research/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Comorbidity ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID is a debilitating multisystemic condition and is a major public health burden, yet the pathophysiology remains poorly understood and there are no effective treatments. Despite the urgent need for better management strategies, research into long COVID is losing momentum.

OBJECTIVES: To help tackle this loss of momentum, this article analyses the major challenges impeding progress and proposes innovative strategies to navigate them and to reinvigorate this research field.

METHOD: The analysis of the long COVID research domain drew on a broad range of scientific literature to identify major barriers to research and potential pathways forward.

RESULTS: The research highlighted critical obstacles, including the lack of reliable biomarkers which has necessitated a reliance on symptom reporting that is inherently heterogenous, temporally complex and often confounded by symptoms arising from pre-existing comorbidities. The absence of pre-infection baseline data further complicates the distinction between long COVID-specific pathophysiology and the effects of pre-existing co-morbidities. Additionally, the long COVID patient population has heterogenous multiorgan pathology, and this diversity makes it difficult to identify and interpret clinical findings.

CONCLUSION: Addressing these methodological and conceptual challenges is essential to accelerate the understanding of long COVID pathophysiology and guide the development of effective interventions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/complications/epidemiology/therapy
*Biomedical Research/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
Comorbidity
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40719006,
year = {2025},
author = {Oleszkiewicz, A and Croy, I and Hummel, T},
title = {The impact of olfactory loss on quality of life: a 2025 review.},
journal = {Chemical senses},
volume = {50},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40719006},
issn = {1464-3553},
support = {20 #2020/39/B/HS6/01533//National Science Center (Poland)/ ; 101046369//European Innovation Council/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Quality of Life ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Olfaction Disorders/psychology/physiopathology ; Smell/physiology ; },
abstract = {For a long time, the sense of smell was considered the neglected stepbrother of human sensory abilities, and the loss of smell has received little attention. This perception changed dramatically with the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to millions of people losing their sense of smell, and some never recovering. COVID-19 not only increased general awareness of olfactory disorders but also accelerated research into the role of smell in nonverbal communication and mental health. This review aims to summarize the literature on the impact of olfactory disorders on quality of life. Starting from the functions of olfaction in healthy individuals, we will briefly describe the most common olfactory disorders and their effect on an individual's life, including nutrition and eating behaviors, social and psychological well-being, and exposure to environmental hazards. Consequences of olfactory loss permeate many spheres of daily life. On average, dysosmia has a moderate impact on quality of life, though for some patients the effects can be severe.},
}

Humans
*Quality of Life
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Olfaction Disorders/psychology/physiopathology
Smell/physiology

@article {pmid40690308,
year = {2025},
author = {Ruggiero-Ruff, RE and Coss, D},
title = {Neuroendocrinology and the Genetics of Obesity.},
journal = {Endocrinology},
volume = {166},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {40690308},
issn = {1945-7170},
support = {HD091167//National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/ ; AI180561//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Obesity/genetics/metabolism/epidemiology ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; Animals ; COVID-19 ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Energy Metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {The increase in the incidence of obesity has coincided with changes in lifestyle, diet, and environment. Comorbidities associated with obesity include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, stroke, and thromboembolism, affecting public health. The effect of increased weight has recently become even more obvious, since obesity has been significantly associated with increased severity and higher mortality among COVID-19 patients. The need to decrease rates of obesity prompted a surge in the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist medications. Twin studies, however, determined that increased weight has a large genetic component, estimating the heritability of obesity to be 45% to 70%. Surprisingly, obesity due to known single gene mutation comprises only 5% to 10% of individuals, who mostly exhibit early-onset severe obesity. Genome-wide linkage studies and association studies identified more than 250 genes associated with obesity, but each of these has a relatively small effect size. Further, several genetic syndromes, associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities and congenital malformations, encompass obesity in their constellation of symptoms. This review will summarize several known genetic causes of obesity, focusing specifically on how they relate to the brain circuitry that regulates food intake and energy homeostasis. The review will indicate a need for further studies to integrate the role of diet and environmental contribution with genetic components of this multifactorial condition. Given that genetics of obesity is unlikely to explain the recent dramatic temporal increase in the prevalence of obesity, our review will point to the need to understand interactions between genes and other contributing environmental or sex-dependent factors.},
}

Humans
*Obesity/genetics/metabolism/epidemiology
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Animals
COVID-19
Genome-Wide Association Study
Energy Metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid40466480,
year = {2025},
author = {Anastassopoulou, C and Panagiotopoulos, AP and Ferous, S and Poland, GA and Dodick, DW and Tsakris, A},
title = {RSV vaccines and Guillain-Barré syndrome: Insights into an emerging concern.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {61},
number = {},
pages = {127338},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127338},
pmid = {40466480},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Guillain-Barre Syndrome/epidemiology/etiology/chemically induced ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; Incidence ; },
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of serious lower respiratory tract infections (LTRI), disproportionately affecting infants and older adults. The recent approval of 3 different RSV vaccines marks a significant advancement in mitigating RSV-related morbidity and mortality. However, the increased incidence of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) following RSV vaccination, confirmed by post-marketing surveillance, has raised concerns. Apart from the previously proposed mechanisms that primarily include molecular mimicry and host genetics, electrolytic hydroelectric disorders, particularly the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)-induced hyponatremia, may be associated with GBS. Given that GBS is more common in individuals >65 years - the primary target group for RSV vaccination - this overlap warrants careful consideration. While the benefits of RSV vaccines have been demonstrated, continued safety monitoring and investigation into rare adverse events such as GBS are essential to ensure public health benefits and confidence while minimizing risks.},
}

Humans
*Guillain-Barre Syndrome/epidemiology/etiology/chemically induced
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Vaccination/adverse effects
Incidence

@article {pmid40090361,
year = {2025},
author = {Farran, SH and Rabah, R and Simon, C},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Placentitis: A Review of Pathologic Findings and Discussion of Differential Diagnosis.},
journal = {Archives of pathology & laboratory medicine},
volume = {149},
number = {9},
pages = {e291-e297},
doi = {10.5858/arpa.2024-0247-RA},
pmid = {40090361},
issn = {1543-2165},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/pathology/diagnosis/virology/complications ; Pregnancy ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Female ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/pathology/virology/diagnosis ; *Placenta/pathology/virology ; *Placenta Diseases/virology/pathology/diagnosis ; Adult ; *Chorioamnionitis/pathology/virology/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {CONTEXT.—: Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection has been associated with increased adverse events in the mother, as well as increased stillbirths (11.5 per 1000), spontaneous abortions, and premature delivery. Clinical symptomatology, or the lack thereof, does not appear to be directly related to fetal or neonatal complications. SARS-CoV-2 placentitis is now recognized as the culprit, and the presence of the virus in the syncytiotrophoblasts of the placenta has emerged as a significant predictor of fetal compromise.

OBJECTIVE.—: To provide a review of the clinical presentation and outcomes, morphologic characteristics, detection methods, and differential diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 placentitis.

DATA SOURCES.—: A case of placental pathology in a patient with COVID-19 infection at the University of Michigan, as well as a review of the available literature through a search of PubMed and Google Scholar.

CONCLUSIONS.—: SARS-CoV-2 placentitis is a well-documented outcome of symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 infection during pregnancy. It can disrupt placental function and lead to severe outcomes in the neonate, including growth restriction and stillbirths. Chronic histiocytic intervillositis, perivillous fibrin deposition, and trophoblast necrosis, when present together, may act as a morphologic signature of SARS-CoV-2 placentitis. The histologic differential diagnosis includes massive perivillous fibrin deposition (MPFD)/maternal floor infarction (MFI), chronic villitis of unknown origin, or other infectious villitides. Immunohistochemistry and RNA in situ hybridization are specific to the viral antibodies and RNA, respectively, and are essential for classification.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/pathology/diagnosis/virology/complications
Pregnancy
Diagnosis, Differential
Female
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/pathology/virology/diagnosis
*Placenta/pathology/virology
*Placenta Diseases/virology/pathology/diagnosis
Adult
*Chorioamnionitis/pathology/virology/diagnosis

@article {pmid39749746,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, C and He, F},
title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the clinical outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza in pediatric patients.},
journal = {Advances in clinical and experimental medicine : official organ Wroclaw Medical University},
volume = {34},
number = {8},
pages = {1267-1276},
doi = {10.17219/acem/192224},
pmid = {39749746},
issn = {1899-5276},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/mortality/complications/epidemiology ; *Influenza, Human/therapy/mortality/complications ; Child ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {Only a few studies have examined the effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and influenza on clinical outcomes in pediatric patients. Furthermore, no meta-analysis has assessed the impact of these diseases on adverse outcomes. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 and influenza in pediatric patients. Searches were conducted from December 2019 to February 2022 in databases including Embase, Scopus, PubMed Central (PMC), MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect. Our meta-analysis used a random-effects model, reporting pooled odds ratios (ORs) or standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Thirteen studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Most studies had poor quality. The pooled OR was 0.13 for oxygen requirement (95% CI: 0.04-0.45; I2 = 74%) and 0.03 for steroid requirement (95% CI: 0.01-0.19; I2 = 60.8%). No significant differences were found in outcomes such as intensive care unit (ICU) admission, duration of inpatient stay, invasive/non-invasive ventilation, death, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and acute kidney injury (AKI). SARS-CoV-2 infection was comparable to influenza regarding mortality, pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions, mechanical ventilation, and AKI incidence, but with notable differences in oxygen supplementation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/mortality/complications/epidemiology
*Influenza, Human/therapy/mortality/complications
Child
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
SARS-CoV-2
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40853332,
year = {2025},
author = {Rezk, N and McClean, S},
title = {Harnessing the Potential of mRNA Vaccines Against Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {18},
number = {8},
pages = {e70212},
doi = {10.1111/1751-7915.70212},
pmid = {40853332},
issn = {1751-7915},
support = {//Higher Education Authority/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/genetics ; Vaccine Development ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Bacterial Infections/prevention & control ; Parasitic Diseases/prevention & control ; *Communicable Diseases/immunology ; Bacterial Vaccines/immunology/genetics ; Animals ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {mRNA vaccines have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional vaccines because of their flexible design, high immunogenicity, favourable safety profile, efficacy and potential for rapid clinical development. The accelerated development of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic has revolutionised the field of vaccinology, highlighting their potential for combating emerging infectious diseases. The mRNA platforms can induce robust humoral as well as CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell-mediated immunity, offering broader protection than subunit protein vaccines. Consequently, they have been extensively studied against a wide range of viral, bacterial and parasitic infections, although the development of mRNA vaccines against bacterial and parasitic infections has lagged behind those targeting viruses. This review highlights recent studies on mRNA vaccine development and applications against a wide range of infectious diseases including non-COVID viral infections, bacterial pathogens such as Mycobacteria or Pseudomonas aeruginosa and parasitic infections, including malaria. Moreover, it discusses key optimisation strategies and highlights candidates that have progressed to clinical trials, and the current challenges in enhancing immunogenicity and improving delivery systems.},
}

Humans
*Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/genetics
Vaccine Development
COVID-19/prevention & control
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Bacterial Infections/prevention & control
Parasitic Diseases/prevention & control
*Communicable Diseases/immunology
Bacterial Vaccines/immunology/genetics
Animals
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40852653,
year = {2025},
author = {Burke, EM and Fox, JA and Tager, K and McDowell, S and Phelps, F and Koh, H},
title = {Toward a public health leadership national training agenda: a review of conceptual frameworks and core competencies.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1630046},
pmid = {40852653},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {*Leadership ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Public Health/education ; *Professional Competence/standards ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Strong and effective leadership is essential for the success of public health systems. It serves as the driving force that inspires, guides, and empowers individuals to improve the health of their communities and strengthen their organizations. Leadership is not merely supplementary but a core element in tackling the increasingly complex challenges facing public health today. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant weaknesses in our systems for emergency preparedness and response, highlighting just how critical capable leadership is within governmental public health. These challenges are magnified by persistent workforce issues, including knowledge gaps, limited development opportunities, and concerns around long-term sustainability. Further complicating the landscape are rising levels of political polarization and incidents of harassment directed at public health professionals. In response to these pressures and a growing wave of workforce attrition, there is now a heightened national focus on developing the next generation of public health leaders. This development must be intentional and structured, relying on well-designed, competency-based approaches rather than informal or inconsistent methods. Public health leaders must be equipped with the skills to navigate the evolving demands of modern health systems. In 2022, the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) convened an expert panel to develop a national leadership training agenda tailored to the governmental public health workforce. The panel consisted of 15 academic and practice leaders in the United States. Between 2022 and 2024, the panel met regularly to define the essential attributes of public health leadership and determine effective strategies for cultivating them through education and capacity-building efforts. The result of this collaborative effort is the ASPPH Public Health Leadership Competency Mapping and Training Agenda: a foundational framework designed to strengthen capabilities across current and future governmental public health professionals. This article presents that framework, marking an important step toward building a more resilient, competent, and adaptive public health workforce.},
}

*Leadership
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Public Health/education
*Professional Competence/standards
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40852084,
year = {2025},
author = {Janko, RK and Haussmann, I and Patel, A},
title = {The Prevalence of Infectious Diseases Among Seventh-Day Adventists: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {American journal of lifestyle medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15598276251370238},
pmid = {40852084},
issn = {1559-8284},
abstract = {Background: Several studies have investigated the incidence of chronic diseases among Adventists, but less is known about the association between the prevalence of infectious diseases and the Adventist lifestyle. Methods: This systematic review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and has been registered on PROSPERO under CRD42024502363. Relevant studies were searched in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Observational studies reporting on the prevalence or occurrence of infectious diseases within the Adventist community were included if they were published in English language. The included studies were synthesised in the form of a narrative synthesis. Results: The outcomes related to infectious conditions identified were Toxoplasma gondii, Helicobacter pylori, antibodies to Vibrio species and Norwalk virus, upper respiratory infections (URIs), COVID-19 disease, H1N1 influenza, and infectious disease-related mortality. A lower prevalence of some infectious diseases was shown among Adventists. A study noted lower Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in Adventists, and another associated high fruit, vegetable, and water intake with fewer respiratory infections. Conclusions: The Adventist lifestyle may be associated with a lower prevalence of infectious diseases, likely due in part to the Adventist diet. However, further research is needed to clarify the relative contributions of individual lifestyle factors to these protective effects.},
}

@article {pmid40852002,
year = {2025},
author = {Mokhtari, M and Kouhpayeh, H},
title = {A systematic review of COVID-19's impact on pregnancy outcomes.},
journal = {Annals of medicine and surgery (2012)},
volume = {87},
number = {7},
pages = {4384-4394},
pmid = {40852002},
issn = {2049-0801},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Contradictory data exists regarding COVID-19's impact on pregnancy outcomes. This study will compare pandemic pregnancy outcomes to pre-pandemic levels in local, regional, and national populations.

METHODS: We searched three international electronic databases (PubMed) for research on COVID-19 infection and pregnancy outcomes from the first accessible to 10 December 2021. We included articles on COVID-19's effects on pregnancy, maternal, and neonatal outcomes, using pregnancy as the main endpoint.

RESULTS: Twenty-eight studies were examined. The exposed population sampled 1 476 827, and the total sample was 23 819 822. One-third of studies found a pandemic-related increase in maternal mortality. Six of fourteen stillbirth studies showed a substantial increase. Ten of fourteen studies found no substantial increase in preterm birth rates. After the pandemic, postnatal depression, maternal anxiety, or both increased in five of nine mother mental health studies.

CONCLUSION: There is a significant increase in postnatal maternal mental disorders and a probable increase in maternal mortality and stillbirth compared to before the pandemic. However, our study's findings might result from healthcare inefficiency. COVID-19 vaccination is highly recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.},
}

@article {pmid40851973,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhatti, HF and Tahir, M and Faheem, MSB and Khabir, M and Tahir, A and Qureshi, MAA and Ashraf, DA and Iqbal, MS and Samadi, S},
title = {Trends in schizophrenia-related mortality from 1999 to 2020: year, gender, and regional variations.},
journal = {Annals of medicine and surgery (2012)},
volume = {87},
number = {7},
pages = {4336-4343},
pmid = {40851973},
issn = {2049-0801},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the global population, with 1.5 million Americans diagnosed annually. Despite higher mortality rates in this group, trends by year, gender, and region remain insufficiently explored. This study evaluated global trends in schizophrenia (F20) mortality from 1999 to 2020, analyzing variations by year, gender, and region. Additionally, we examined age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) by place of death and year to provide a comprehensive understanding of these trends.

METHODS: The CDC WONDER database was used to analyze schizophrenia-related mortality from 1999 to 2020, calculating mortality rates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess national trends.

RESULTS: Throughout the study, males had higher AAMRs for schizophrenia (1.3%, 95% CI: 1.3-1.3) than females (0.9%, 95% Cl: 0.9-1.4). In metropolitan areas, the AAMR was 96.6, declining from 1999 to 2015 (APC: -1.07%) before rising (APC: 6.41%). Non-metropolitan areas had an AAMR of 58.9, decreasing from 1999 to 2017 (APC: -0.86%) before increasing by 2020 (APC: 8.95%). Overall, schizophrenia-related AAMRs rose from 1.2 in 1999 to 1.4 in 2020, with fluctuations.

CONCLUSION: Schizophrenia-related mortality declined from 1999 to 2015 but rose afterward. Males consistently had higher AAMRs, while urban areas showed greater mortality, reflecting social and environmental risks. Early declines may be linked to improved psychiatric care, whereas the recent rise correlates with the opioid epidemic and COVID-19. These findings highlight the need for better investment in mental health care, early intervention, access in underserved areas, and better management of comorbidities.},
}

@article {pmid40851910,
year = {2025},
author = {Mujumdar, V and Huang, M and Smith, LC and Musa, F},
title = {Ivermectin and gynecologic cancer: What's the data?.},
journal = {Gynecologic oncology reports},
volume = {60},
number = {},
pages = {101803},
pmid = {40851910},
issn = {2352-5789},
abstract = {•Ivermectin is currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996 as an oral medication for intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis.•The data on ivermectin as a gynecologic cancer-fighting compound is lacking.•Clinical studies on ivermectin use in cancer are limited to effects observed in cell lines.•We have not assessed ivermectin's safety and efficacy in gynecologic cancers.•We do not recommend and strongly caution the use of ivermectin in the treatment of gynecologic cancers.},
}

@article {pmid40851885,
year = {2025},
author = {Lazzari, C and Rabottini, M},
title = {The use of Introduction, Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation handover in the COVID-19 pandemic and non-COVID clinical settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in health services},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1380948},
pmid = {40851885},
issn = {2813-0146},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The Introduction, Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (ISBAR) approach to clinical handovers assists healthcare providers in sharing information about patients within clinical teams and across health sectors while reducing information gaps and medical errors. However, despite its significance, uncertainties remain about the clear outcomes of applying ISBAR and training, especially in settings managing COVID-19 and those not dealing with the pandemic.

METHODS: This review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. All the selected articles underwent a progressive check for bias and validity using GRADEpro GDT and RoB-2 as per Cochrane guidelines. This review utilized a meta-analysis of 29 studies and a critical narrative review of seminal articles to condense the non-numerical findings. All articles were checked for heterogeneity with the I [2] coefficient. The extracted effect size was the common language effect size (CLES), with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS: ISBAR strengthens communication skills in clinical teams, increases self-confidence and efficacy among healthcare practitioners, improves interprofessional communication, reduces medical errors, and enhances patient safety.

CONCLUSIONS: Our systematic review confirms that ISBAR handover improved the quality of care during the COVID-19 pandemic and non-COVID clinical practice. The limitation of this study is related to the lack of randomized controlled trials and blinding. Almost all studies were cross-sectional, which only provides information regarding associations but not causation.},
}

@article {pmid40850887,
year = {2025},
author = {Chapman, A and Berenbaum, F and Curigliano, G and Pliakas, T and Sheikh, A and Abduljawad, S},
title = {Risk of Severe Outcomes From COVID-19 in Immunocompromised People During the Omicron Era: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Clinical therapeutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinthera.2025.07.006},
pmid = {40850887},
issn = {1879-114X},
abstract = {PURPOSE: COVID-19 imposes a high burden on people with immunocompromising/immunosuppressive (IC/IS) conditions. This is the first large-scale, comprehensive meta-analysis encompassing major IC/IS categories to assess the risks of severe outcomes from COVID-19 in people with IC/IS conditions during the Omicron era-the period dominated by the most recent major COVID-19 variant.

METHODS: A systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Europe PMC, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, and WHO COVID-19 database was performed to identify studies published between January 1, 2022, and March 13, 2024. Studies included people (all ages) with at least one of the following conditions: unspecified IC/IS, transplant, malignancy, autoimmune diseases, liver diseases, chronic or end-stage kidney disease, and advanced/untreated HIV. Studies were synthesized quantitatively using random-effects models. Evaluated outcomes were risks of death, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and any combination of these outcomes.

FINDINGS: Seventy-two studies were included, of which 66 were included in the meta-analysis. Minimum numbers of participants per IC/IS condition ranged from 12,634 to 3,287,816. Of all meta-analyzed IC/IS conditions, transplant recipients had the highest risk of death (pooled relative risk [RR], 6.78; 95% CI: 4.41-10.43; P < 0.001), hospitalization (RR, 6.75; 95% CI 3.41-13.37; P < 0.001), and combined outcomes (RR, 8.65; 95% CI 4.01-18.65; P < 0.001), while participants in the unspecified IC/IS group had the highest risk of ICU admission (RR, 3.38; 95% CI 2.37-4.83; P < 0.001) compared with participants without the respective IC/IS conditions or general population.

IMPLICATIONS: In the Omicron era, people with IC/IS conditions have a substantially higher risk of death and hospitalization from COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40850278,
year = {2025},
author = {Ezeh, OV and Ternero-Hidalgo, JJ and Lintag, RMN and Han, W and Yeung, KL},
title = {Exploring innovations in antimicrobial protective mask filters: A review.},
journal = {Advances in colloid and interface science},
volume = {345},
number = {},
pages = {103635},
doi = {10.1016/j.cis.2025.103635},
pmid = {40850278},
issn = {1873-3727},
abstract = {Mask filters are necessary for personal protection. The COVID-19 pandemic exemplified this need. Nonetheless, they can pose risk of transmission as captured microbes or respiratory droplets can remain viable on filters and propagate under ideal environmental conditions. It became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic that conventional masks alone are insufficient for ensuring adequate safety and disrupting the route of spread. Equipping protective masks with antimicrobial property is fundamental to overcoming the survivability of microbes on the surface of filter media and ensuring personal safety. Consequently, this has become a significant research focus, with a sharp upsurge in publications in the COVID-19 era. In this work, we present a comprehensive review of crucial advancements in antimicrobial mask filters, emphasizing the relevance of this topic within the contemporary framework of the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to the anticipated performance standards associated with the expanding market of antimicrobial protective mask filters.},
}

@article {pmid40850218,
year = {2025},
author = {Baykara, Y and Sevgi, K and Akgun, Y},
title = {COVID-19 Microangiopathy: Insights into plasma exchange as a therapeutic strategy.},
journal = {Hematology, transfusion and cell therapy},
volume = {47},
number = {4},
pages = {103963},
doi = {10.1016/j.htct.2025.103963},
pmid = {40850218},
issn = {2531-1387},
abstract = {COVID-19-associated thrombotic microangiopathy has emerged as a severe complication that exacerbates morbidity and mortality in critical cases. Thrombotic microangiopathy, characterized by microvascular thrombosis and endothelial injury, includes conditions like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. This review investigates therapeutic plasma exchange as a potential strategy to mitigate COVID-19-induced thrombotic microangiopathy, examining its role in removing pro-inflammatory cytokines, immune complexes, and pro-thrombotic factors. Additionally, it highlights the synergistic effects when therapeutic plasma exchange is combined with treatments such as complement inhibitors and immunosuppressants. Preliminary evidence, drawn from case reports and early trials, supports the efficacy of therapeutic plasma exchange in improving outcomes for COVID-19-associated thrombotic microangiopathy. However, larger randomized controlled trials are necessary to definitively establish its place in COVID-19 management, particularly for high-risk and transplant patients with underlying immunological vulnerabilities.},
}

@article {pmid40813250,
year = {2025},
author = {Boban, S and Patel, H and Cutlan, J and Mathew, B and Francis, L},
title = {Eosinophilic Fasciitis after Covid Infection: A Case Report and Review of Literature.},
journal = {Clinical medicine & research},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {67-71},
pmid = {40813250},
issn = {1554-6179},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fasciitis/drug therapy/etiology/diagnosis/pathology/diagnostic imaging ; Female ; *Eosinophilia/drug therapy/diagnosis/etiology/pathology ; *COVID-19/complications ; Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Methotrexate/therapeutic use ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Diagnosis, Differential ; },
abstract = {Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a rare fibrosing disorder caused by an autoimmune response to an unknown trigger. Many possible triggers have been suggested including strenuous exercise, drug or chemical exposure, and preceding infection. We present a case of a female patient, age 69 years, who developed EF following SARS-CoV-2 infection. There have been several advances in the diagnosis and management of EF since it was first described 50 years ago. EF is a mimic of scleroderma, but key clinical features can be used to differentiate between the two diagnoses. Laboratory abnormalities include eosinophilia, elevated inflammatory markers, and hypergammaglobulinemia. A full thickness biopsy of the skin including muscle and fascia is recommended to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging modalities such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging have been increasingly used in the diagnosis and follow-up of EF. Corticosteroids remain the first line in treatment of EF. Combination of steroids and methotrexate have shown the best possible outcome. Early diagnosis is important for better treatment response.},
}

Humans
*Fasciitis/drug therapy/etiology/diagnosis/pathology/diagnostic imaging
Female
*Eosinophilia/drug therapy/diagnosis/etiology/pathology
*COVID-19/complications
Aged
SARS-CoV-2
Methotrexate/therapeutic use
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Diagnosis, Differential

@article {pmid40804722,
year = {2025},
author = {Kidanemariam, YT and Abebe, F and Girma, E and Addisse, A and Birhanu, Z and Hassen, K and Taye, A and Amdisa, D and Lake, EA and Guta, MT and Morankar, S and Kedir, K and Mesfin, F and Wadilo, F and Hailemeskel, E and Dereje, M and Hailegebrel, E and Howe, R and Boltena, MT and Getachew, H and Mengesha, EW and Tesfaye, TD and Fentahun, N and Damtew, B and Debebe, A and Tariku, Z and Worku, A and Abraha, YG and Ababulgu, SA},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on non-communicable diseases care and service deliveries in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1075},
pmid = {40804722},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Noncommunicable Diseases/therapy/epidemiology ; Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) care and services play a crucial role in reducing mortality and morbidity associated with NCDs. However, COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the disparities in NCDs care and services in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). To date, there is limited synthesized evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on NCDs care and service delivery in this region. Therefore, this review aims to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on NCDs care and service in SSA.

METHOD: A systematic search was conducted on various databases and grey literature sources, including PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the World Health Organization database. Studies evaluating the impacts of COVID-19 on the management and provision of major NCDs care in SSA were included. Data extraction and review were performed using the JBI SUMARI and PRISMA 2020 checklist, and a narrative synthesis approach was used due to the high heterogeneity of the included studies. The review protocol has been registered with PROSPERO code CRD42022350528.

RESULT: A total of 2,387 records were initially identified, with 2,207articles excluded during abstract and title screening, and 60 articles excluded during full-text screening. Ultimately, 18 studies (13 quantitative and 5 qualitative) were included. The review identified significant disruptions in delivery of care for NCD care across SSA during the pandemic. It include substantial reduction in outpatient attendance, delayed or cancelled diagnostic service and compromised disease management. These disruptions were influenced by healthcare system overloads, patient fears of contracting COVID-19, and public health measures limiting access to routine care. The studies emphasize an urgent need for adaptive strategies to maintain continuity of care for individuals with NCD during health crises.

CONCLUSION: The provision of healthcare services for NCDs experienced substantial disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a shift towards managing emergency care. Individuals with NCDs have encountered increased risks of morbidity and mortality due to the delayed access to essential care amidst the pandemic. Emergent solutions like digital health technologies have shown potential in enhancing NCD care access during such crises. Moving forward, it is critical that countries prioritize NCD care and integrate robust systems to ensure the continuous provision of essential services, regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic and other healthcare emergencies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Noncommunicable Diseases/therapy/epidemiology
Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40797430,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, K and Xie, H and Wan, Z and Zhou, X and Liu, J and Nong, J and Luo, J and Qin, C and Peng, T},
title = {Safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer patients with COVID-19: A review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {32},
pages = {e43579},
pmid = {40797430},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Neoplasms/drug therapy/immunology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Immunotherapy/methods ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 has emerged as a substantial burden to global public health, with cancer patients exhibiting heightened susceptibility to severe complications. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have exhibited noteworthy efficacy in cancer therapy by promoting robust anti-tumor immune responses. Nevertheless, the safety and efficacy during epidemics remain contentious. The extant evidence concerning the persistent administration of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment within the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 epidemic has been consolidated in this review, and the significance of rigorous patient screening and vigilant monitoring has been emphasized to equilibrate anticancer efficacy with the risk of immune dysfunction, thereby establishing a foundation for the research in cancer immunotherapy.},
}

Humans
*Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/complications
*Neoplasms/drug therapy/immunology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Immunotherapy/methods

@article {pmid40797258,
year = {2025},
author = {Kigongo, E and Puleh, SS and Kabunga, A and Akech, SI and Ocen, F and Opollo, MS and Ebong, M},
title = {Community readiness and acceptance for the implementation of the malaria vaccine among caretakers of at-risk children in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Malaria journal},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {259},
pmid = {40797258},
issn = {1475-2875},
mesh = {Africa South of the Sahara ; Humans ; *Malaria Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Caregivers/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Malaria/prevention & control ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Child, Preschool ; Infant ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among children under five. The introduction of the malaria vaccine presents an opportunity to reduce malaria-related deaths. However, the success of vaccination campaigns depends on community acceptance and willingness to vaccinate. This study aimed to assess the pooled acceptance and willingness to adopt the malaria vaccine in sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on variations across regions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online, was performed. Studies reporting on malaria vaccine acceptance and willingness among caregivers of children under five in sub-Saharan Africa were included. Data were extracted and analysed using STATA, with heterogeneity assessed through the I[2] statistic. Subgroup analyses were performed based on region and pre- and post-COVID periods. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's test.

RESULTS: A total of 1611 records were identified, and 34 studies met inclusion criteria after screening. Of these, 25 studies with a combined sample of 25,867 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled acceptance rate for the malaria vaccine among caregivers of children under five in sub-Saharan Africa was 82% (95% CI: 73%-90%), while the pooled willingness rate was 80% (95% CI: 70%-90%). Subgroup analyses showed no statistically significant differences in acceptance or willingness by COVID-19 period or region, though the lowest acceptance (53%) was reported in the DRC. High heterogeneity was observed (I[2] > 99%), and publication bias was indicated in the willingness outcome (Egger's test, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION: The findings indicate high levels of acceptance and willingness among caregivers to vaccinate children under five against malaria in sub-Saharan Africa, suggesting strong community readiness for vaccine rollout. However, the observed heterogeneity and potential publication bias highlight the need for context-specific strategies and further high-quality studies to support implementation and uptake across diverse regions. Systematic review registration The protocol has been registered with PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023480528.},
}

Africa South of the Sahara
Humans
*Malaria Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Caregivers/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Malaria/prevention & control
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19/epidemiology
Child, Preschool
Infant
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data/psychology

@article {pmid40796220,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, J and Ba, Y and Kim, JY and Youn, BY},
title = {Patient perception of physician attire: a systematic review update.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {e100824},
pmid = {40796220},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; *Clothing/psychology ; *Physicians ; *Patient Preference ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims to update and analyse patient perceptions of physician attire, focusing on its impact on the physician-patient relationship across different medical settings and specialties.

DESIGN: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses criteria.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies from 1 January 2015 to 1 June 2025.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: This review examined studies focused on physician attire and its impact on patient perceptions.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Studies were assessed based on authors, study setting, study design, objective, study population, physician specialty, measures, findings, main conclusion and risk of bias. Then, thematic analysis was employed to synthesise the findings of the articles.

RESULTS: 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. Patient preferences for physician attire varied significantly by clinical context, medical specialty and physician gender. In outpatient and primary care settings, mixed evidence was reported, with some studies suggesting that a combination of casual attire and white coats may foster approachability and communication, while others showed no clear preference. In contrast, in high-acuity settings such as emergency rooms and operating theatres, scrubs were consistently favoured, indicating moderate to strong evidence for the association with professionalism and preparedness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients expressed stronger preferences for scrubs and PPE, emphasising infection prevention and hygiene. Gender-specific findings indicated that male physicians were perceived as more professional when wearing formal attire with white coats, while female physicians in similar attire were often misidentified as nurses or assistants. Specialty-based differences were also observed, with preferences for white coats in dermatology, neurosurgery and ophthalmology, while scrubs were preferred in anaesthesiology and gastroenterology.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that physician attire consistently and significantly impacts patients' perceptions of professionalism, trust and communication. The collective findings provide robust evidence that these perceptions are highly context-dependent, necessitating adaptable dress codes tailored to clinical environments and patient expectations to enhance trust and patient satisfaction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://osf.io/kjr4p.},
}

Humans
*Physician-Patient Relations
*Clothing/psychology
*Physicians
*Patient Preference
COVID-19

@article {pmid40683021,
year = {2025},
author = {Gabelmann, A and Biesel, A and Loretz, B and Lehr, CM},
title = {Exploring the future of mRNA delivery: Beyond lipid nanoparticles.},
journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications},
volume = {778},
number = {},
pages = {152347},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152347},
pmid = {40683021},
issn = {1090-2104},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *RNA, Messenger/administration & dosage/genetics/chemistry ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Lipids/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *Gene Transfer Techniques/trends ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; Animals ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Over six decades of fundamental research and technological innovation have culminated in the emergence of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as the gold standard for mRNA delivery. In the COVID-19 pandemic, they have been pivotal for the rapid development of mRNA-based vaccines. Despite their clinical success, LNPs possess several intrinsic limitations. In this work, we aim to showcase these weak spots but going beyond, we intend to point out solutions and current trends. We discuss strategies to improve mRNA stability and translational efficiency, including formulation stabilization through lyophilization. Furthermore, we analyze novel materials such as poly (beta-amino esters) (PBAEs) and alternative lipid components to replace PEG-lipids, as well as hybrid (e.g. lipid-polymer) nanoparticle systems designed to enhance delivery efficiency, reduce toxicity, and enable tissue-specific targeting. Different targeting strategies, including passive and active nanoparticle-mediated delivery are compared to approaches based on novel medical devices as inhalers or microneedles. Finally, we address advancements in manufacturing technologies tailored for personalized medicine, alongside analytical, regulatory, and intellectual property considerations critical for the development and commercialization of next-generation mRNA formulations.},
}

Humans
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*RNA, Messenger/administration & dosage/genetics/chemistry
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Lipids/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*Gene Transfer Techniques/trends
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Drug Delivery Systems/methods
Animals
Liposomes

@article {pmid40653578,
year = {2025},
author = {Dilmen, S and Dilmen, İ and Özbek, H},
title = {A Contemporary Perspective on Spirituality During Pregnancy: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of religion and health},
volume = {64},
number = {4},
pages = {2832-2857},
pmid = {40653578},
issn = {1573-6571},
mesh = {Humans ; *Spirituality ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *Bibliometrics ; },
abstract = {Spirituality during pregnancy has increasingly been recognized as a critical factor influencing maternal well-being; however, comprehensive investigations into global research trends in this domain remain limited. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of global literature on spirituality in pregnancy from 2004 to 2024, evaluating scholarly productivity, patterns of collaboration, thematic developments, and impact citation. A systematic bibliometric review was conducted on 528 English-language articles indexed in Scopus, focusing specifically on nursing-related literature concerning "pregnancy and spirituality" and excluding non-academic sources. The analysis encompassed annual publication growth, authorship trends, international collaboration networks, keyword clusters, and citation metrics. Results indicate an average annual growth rate of 11.36% in publications, peaking in 2023 with 67 articles. The United States led both in publication output (387 articles) and citation count (2045), followed by Iran with 277 articles. The United Kingdom emerged as a key center for international collaboration, notably with Ghana and Ethiopia. Thematic clustering revealed four principal research areas: (1) spirituality as a coping mechanism (e.g., religiosity, anxiety), (2) birth and midwifery (e.g., prayer, childbirth), (3) psychological well-being (e.g., resilience, quality of life), and (4) grief and cultural practices (e.g., stillbirth, embodiment). Foundational studies emphasized cultural and religious influences on maternal experiences, whereas recent trends (2021-2024) have highlighted the impact of COVID-19 and the rise of digital spirituality. While the field demonstrates notable growth, disparities persist in geographical representation and citation visibility. Future research should prioritize underrepresented regions, adopt interdisciplinary methodologies, and explore clinical strategies for integrating spiritual care into maternal health services.},
}

Humans
*Spirituality
Pregnancy
Female
*Bibliometrics

@article {pmid40622467,
year = {2025},
author = {Chatterjee, D and Maparu, K},
title = {Long COVID syndrome: exploring therapies for managing and overcoming persistent symptoms.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {33},
number = {7},
pages = {4097-4113},
pmid = {40622467},
issn = {1568-5608},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications/epidemiology/physiopathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a growing global health concern, affecting 10-35% of COVID-19 survivors. Characterized by persistent multisystem symptoms lasting beyond 12 weeks, common manifestations include fatigue, dyspnea, chest pain, cognitive impairment, depression, and anxiety. The underlying pathophysiology remains unclear but is likely to involve immune dysregulation, persistent inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, gut dysbiosis, and viral persistence. This review examines the epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical manifestations of long COVID, with a focus on its impact on cardiopulmonary, neurological, and mental health. Therapeutic approaches include pharmacological interventions such as anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants, neuroprotective drugs, and repurposed medications. Non-pharmacological strategies, such as physical rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, dietary modification, and emerging therapies like stem cell therapy, as well as immunomodulatory approaches, offer promising avenues for recovery. We also highlight ongoing clinical trials evaluating targeted therapies for long-term COVID syndrome. Future research should focus on elucidating the pathophysiological mechanisms, identifying biomarkers, and optimizing personalized treatment strategies for long-term COVID-19 management.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications/epidemiology/physiopathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40570137,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, TQ and Vlasenko, D and Shetty, AN and Zhao, E and Reid, CM and Clothier, HJ and Buttery, JP},
title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis of respiratory viral triggers for acute myocardial infarction and stroke.},
journal = {Cardiovascular research},
volume = {121},
number = {9},
pages = {1330-1344},
pmid = {40570137},
issn = {1755-3245},
support = {//Australian Government Research Training Program/ ; //Murdoch Children's Research Institute/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Myocardial Infarction/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis ; Risk Factors ; *Stroke/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology ; Risk Assessment ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; *Virus Diseases/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology ; },
abstract = {Respiratory viral infections may trigger acute cardiovascular events. However, relative pathogen-specific associations are poorly understood, limiting optimal preventive recommendations. The aim of this study was to systematically review the association between respiratory viruses with two primary outcomes, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and stroke. We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science, from database inception to 26 August 2024. Analytical epidemiological studies of respiratory viruses identified by laboratory-confirmatory testing, involving human participants of any age in any country, were eligible for inclusion. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration approach. Data from studies of sufficient quality and homogeneity were pooled using a random-effects model. Certainty of the evidence was assessed for each identified viral trigger. Of 11 017 articles identified, we included a total of 48 studies published between 1978 and 2024. All were observational studies, of which 28 were suitable for quantitative synthesis. There was moderate-certainty evidence that influenza triggers AMI (incidence rate ratio, 5.37; 95% CI, 3.48-8.28; I2 = 69.4%). We found high-certainty evidence that influenza triggers stroke-influenza was associated with a 4.7-fold increased risk of stroke within the first 28 days following infection (incidence rate ratio, 4.72; 95% CI, 3.78-5.90; I2 = 0%). SARS-CoV-2 and cytomegalovirus may trigger stroke, while SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus, and Coxsackie B were also identified as potential triggers for AMI. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the findings suggest that common, often vaccine-preventable, respiratory viral infections are associated with an increased risk of acute cardiovascular events.},
}

Humans
*Myocardial Infarction/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis
Risk Factors
*Stroke/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology
Risk Assessment
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis
Male
Female
Middle Aged
Aged
*Virus Diseases/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology

@article {pmid40314496,
year = {2025},
author = {Ward, EJ and Webster, CS},
title = {The Conceptualization of Health Care Resilience: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of patient safety},
volume = {21},
number = {6},
pages = {e100-e109},
pmid = {40314496},
issn = {1549-8425},
mesh = {Humans ; *Resilience, Psychological ; *COVID-19 ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: In recent years, health care resilience has garnered increased attention, particularly since COVID-19. Resilience in health care is commonly framed across four interconnected levels: individual, team, organisational, and systemic. While individual-level resilience is relatively well explored, conceptualisations at other levels remain poorly defined.

METHODS: To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review exploring conceptualisations of health care resilience outside of the individual-level using systematic searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar.

RESULTS: From 3734 initial records, 58 met our criteria. Of these, 7 (12.1%) articles did not explicitly define resilience. System-level resilience was the most explored (n=38, 65.5%), followed by organisational (n=12, 20.7%), and cross-level studies (n=8, 13.8%), with no studies exclusively focusing on team-level resilience. Conceptualisations of resilience revealed 5 themes: the goal of resilience; what systems are resilient to; resilience characteristics; its classification as ability, capacity, or capability; and the temporal dimension of resilience. Notably, no distinct patterns emerged specific to a conceptual level, suggesting resilience can be conceptualised across team, organisation, and system levels.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings underscore significant diversity in resilience definitions, indicating an evolving health care resilience paradigm. On the basis of these insights, we propose the following definition, applicable across all levels: health care resilience is the ability to anticipate, absorb, adapt or transform in response to everyday pressures, threats and opportunities to maintain efficient, high quality, and safe performance. A shared understanding of health care resilience would promote the critical imperative for research to bolster health care recovery post-COVID-19 and to prepare for future disruptive events.},
}

Humans
*Resilience, Psychological
*COVID-19
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2
*Health Personnel/psychology

@article {pmid40127178,
year = {2025},
author = {Mack, PC and Crawford, JM and Chang, A and Yin, A and Klein, SL and Shea, P and Hirsch, FR and Zidar, D and Simon, V and Gleason, C and McBride, R and Cordon-Cardo, C and VanOudenhove, J and Halene, S and Lee, FE and Mantis, N and Kushi, LH and Weiskopf, D and Merchant, A and Reckamp, KL and Skarbinski, J and Figueiredo, JC},
title = {In the time of COVID-19: challenges, successes, and lessons learned from studies in cancer patients.},
journal = {Journal of the National Cancer Institute},
volume = {117},
number = {8},
pages = {1547-1556},
pmid = {40127178},
issn = {1460-2105},
support = {U01 CA260539/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260469/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54CA260560/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54 CA260543/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; UG1 CA189850/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260469/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54 CA260563/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260507/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA261277/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260539/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54 CA260560/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54 CA260591/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260526/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; K12CA237806//CLL Society Young Investigator/ ; CBC21X090/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260513/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA261276/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; K08 AI178093/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; K12 CA237806/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA261276/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260541/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260584/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260541/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA261277/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260462/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260584/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; 3UG1CA189850-09S1/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260507/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; //Emory K12 Clinical Oncology Training Program/ ; CBC21X091/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CBC 21X089/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54CA260563/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260513/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01 CA260526/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U01CA260462/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; U54CA260543/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; //SeroNet/ ; U54CA260591/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; CBC21X092/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/immunology/prevention & control/virology/diagnosis ; *Neoplasms/immunology/therapy/complications/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; United States/epidemiology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; National Cancer Institute (U.S.) ; COVID-19 Serological Testing ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic created the urgent need to monitor risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and mortality and to evaluate immune responses to novel vaccines. A foremost concern was the unknown risks to patients with cancer, considering their overall health, immune status, and interactions with cancer therapies. The US National Cancer Institute, in partnership with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, established the SARS-CoV-2 Serological Sciences Network as the nation's largest coordinated effort to identify and establish standardized serology tests to study immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. Serological Sciences Network-sponsored institutions established cohort studies in 2020 and 2021 across the nation to prospectively follow more than 3000 patients with solid and hematologic malignancies. Concerted efforts were launched to define common data elements for self-reported and clinicopathological data as well as standardized approaches for serological, cellular, and molecular assays. However, the urgency of the situation, the pace of scientific evolution, and the changing public health landscape presented unique challenges to this effort. Here, we discuss these challenges, including regulatory and institution-specific requirements, enrollment of participants, data and biospecimen collection and harmonization, and the need to adapt study designs to align with the ever changing landscape. This information is critical to the continuance of research on SARS-CoV-2 and provides a roadmap for combatting the emergence of future pathogens with pandemic potential.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/immunology/prevention & control/virology/diagnosis
*Neoplasms/immunology/therapy/complications/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
United States/epidemiology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
National Cancer Institute (U.S.)
COVID-19 Serological Testing

@article {pmid39907316,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, JM and Li, ZQ and Zhong, YB and Xie, HY and Luo, Y and Xiao, L and Liao, JH and Wang, MY},
title = {Association Between Vitamin D and COVID-19-Related Outcomes: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses.},
journal = {Nutrition reviews},
volume = {83},
number = {9},
pages = {1757-1770},
doi = {10.1093/nutrit/nuae225},
pmid = {39907316},
issn = {1753-4887},
support = {82060420//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20212BAB206004//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province, China/ ; 2023LNS37155//Bureau of Science and Technology of Ganzhou Municipality/ ; //Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases/ ; NX202022//Gannan Medical University/ ; 20212BAB206004//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality/blood/complications ; *Vitamin D/blood/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/complications/blood/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Dietary Supplements ; Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Length of Stay ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {CONTEXT: COVID-19 remains globally pandemic, and although several meta-analyses have explored the association between vitamin D and COVID-19 relative to clinical outcomes, a unified view has not yet emerged.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the evidence for associations between vitamin D levels and COVID-19-related clinical outcomes and to assess the strength and validity of these associations.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews databases were searched from January 1, 2020, to June 15, 2024.

DATA EXTRACTION: Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed study quality.

DATA ANALYSIS: Low vitamin D levels increased the risk of infection by 1.26- to 2.18-fold, the risk of severe illness by 1.50- to 5.57-fold, the risk of intensive care unit (ICU) admission by more than 2-fold, and the risk of death by 1.22- to 4.15-fold. In addition, patients with vitamin D deficiency had an average increase in length of hospital stay of 0.54 days compared with patients with high vitamin D levels. Overall, vitamin D supplementation may reduce severity (eg, ICU admissions, need for mechanical ventilation) and shorter length of hospital stay but has a nonsignificant effect on infection and mortality rates. In addition, there were significant differences in vitamin D levels between individuals testing positive for COVID-19 and those testing negative (mean difference [MD] = -3.22 ng mL-1; 95% CI, -5.18 to -1.25), those with severe cases and those with mild cases (MD = -4.60 ng mL-1; 95% CI, -5.49 to -3.71), and nonsurvivors and survivors of COVID-19 infection (MD = -6.59 ng mL-1; 95% CI: -8.94 to -4.24).

CONCLUSIONS: Low vitamin D levels are associated with higher infection rates, more severe disease, and higher mortality rates among individuals with COVID-19, whereas vitamin D supplementation may reduce patients' disease severity. The beneficial effects on infection rates and mortality remain to be further explored, however, in higher-quality, randomized controlled studies. Nonetheless, caution is warranted because the methodological quality of most meta-analyses and the level of evidence for most outcomes are very low.

PROSPERO registration No. CRD42022385036.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality/blood/complications
*Vitamin D/blood/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*Vitamin D Deficiency/complications/blood/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Dietary Supplements
Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data
Meta-Analysis as Topic
Length of Stay
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid36017832,
year = {2022},
author = {Kurdekar, A and Verma, S and Venkataramaniah, K},
title = {HIV and COVID-19: A Tale of Two Pandemics.},
journal = {Current HIV research},
volume = {20},
number = {5},
pages = {344-349},
pmid = {36017832},
issn = {1873-4251},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *HIV Infections/epidemiology/drug therapy/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coinfection/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; },
abstract = {In the last 5 decades, we have witnessed two major pandemics, AIDS caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and the CoronaVirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The emergence of COVID-19 has raised many concerns for researchers, doctors, patients, and other institutions associated with HIV. A lot of debate has persisted on clinical outcomes, the use of antiretrovirals, and vaccines on HIV patients infected with COVID-19. This note attempts to present different aspects of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 across themes like SARS-CoV-2 coinfections in people living with HIV, the psychological impact, treatments, vaccination, etc. We highlight how learnings from the COVID-19 pandemic can help us in tackling the HIV pandemic.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*HIV Infections/epidemiology/drug therapy/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
*Coinfection/epidemiology
Pandemics
COVID-19 Vaccines

@article {pmid34382909,
year = {2022},
author = {Scquizzato, T and D'Amico, F and Rocchi, M and Saracino, M and Stella, F and Landoni, G and Zangrillo, A},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest System-of-Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Prehospital emergency care},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {30-41},
doi = {10.1080/10903127.2021.1967535},
pmid = {34382909},
issn = {1545-0066},
mesh = {Humans ; *Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest/therapy/mortality/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Emergency Medical Services/statistics & numerical data ; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/methods ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Introduction: COVID-19 pandemic overwhelmed healthcare systems and diverted resources allocated for other conditions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to analyse how the pandemic impacted the system-of-care of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.Methods: We searched PubMed and Embase up to May 31, 2021, for studies comparing out-of-hospital cardiac arrests that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic versus a non-pandemic period. Survival at hospital discharge or at 30 days was the primary outcome.Results: We included 24 studies for a total of 75,952 patients. Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests during COVID-19 pandemic had lower survival (19 studies; 603/11,666 [5.2%] vs. 1320/17,174 [7.7%]; OR = 0.54; 95% CI, 0.44-0.65; P = 0.001) and return of spontaneous circulation (4370/24353 [18%] vs. 7401/34510 [21%]; OR = 0.64; 95% CI, 0.55-0.75; P < 0.001) compared with non-pandemic periods. Ambulance response times (10.1 vs 9.0 minutes, MD = 1.01; 95% CI, 0.59-1.42; P < 0.001) and non-shockable rhythms (18,242/21,665 [84%] vs. 19,971/24,817 [81%]; OR = 1.27; 95% CI, 1.10-1.46; P < 0.001) increased. Use of supraglottic airways devices increased (2853/7645 [37%] vs. 2043/17521 [12%]; OR = 1.97; 95% CI, 1.42-2.74; P < 0.001).Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the system-of-care of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, and patients had worse short-term outcomes compared to pre-pandemic periods. Advanced airway management strategy shifted from endotracheal intubation to supraglottic airway devices.

REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42021250339.},
}

Humans
*Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest/therapy/mortality/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Emergency Medical Services/statistics & numerical data
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/methods
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40849821,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, Y and Wu, X and Xu, C and Huang, J and Zhang, L and Qiu, P and Zheng, D and Chen, W and Zhang, S},
title = {Pathogen virulence genes: Advances, challenges and future directions in infectious disease research (Review).},
journal = {International journal of molecular medicine},
volume = {56},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3892/ijmm.2025.5614},
pmid = {40849821},
issn = {1791-244X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Communicable Diseases/microbiology/genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; Candida albicans/pathogenicity/genetics ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics ; *Virulence Factors/genetics ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {Pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, employ virulence genes to invade their hosts, circumvent immunity and induce diseases. The present review examines the categorization and regulatory mechanisms of virulence genes and their co‑evolution with antimicrobial resistance. The present review focused on the fimbrial adhesion H adhesion gene of Escherichia coli, the spike protein gene of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and the enhanced filamentous growth protein 1 (EFG1) morphological transition gene of Candida albicans, as well as their roles in host adhesion, immune evasion and tissue damage. Application of technologies, including multi‑omics integration, artificial intelligence and CRISPR‑based genome editing, is discussed in the context of precision diagnostics, targeted therapy and vaccine development. By elucidating pathogen adaptation dynamics and host‑pathogen interactions, the present review offers a basis for reducing the global burden of drug‑resistant infections through improved surveillance and personalized interventions.},
}

Humans
*Communicable Diseases/microbiology/genetics
Virulence/genetics
Candida albicans/pathogenicity/genetics
Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics
*Virulence Factors/genetics
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/genetics/pathogenicity

@article {pmid40848858,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, X and Ma, Y and Liu, H and Wang, Y},
title = {Multifunctional regulation and treatment of ubiquitin specific protease 10.},
journal = {Biochemical pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {117251},
doi = {10.1016/j.bcp.2025.117251},
pmid = {40848858},
issn = {1873-2968},
abstract = {USP10 is a critical deubiquitinating enzyme within the ubiquitin-specific protease family, playing multifaceted roles in cellular physiology and disease pathogenesis. Structurally composed of a G3BP1-interacting motif, a N-terminal domain (mediating most protein interactions), and a catalytic USP domain (residues 415-795, catalytic triad C424-H736-D751), USP10 regulates diverse cellular pathways by stabilizing key proteins through deubiquitination. It exhibits context-dependent functional duality, particularly in cancer: USP10 promotes tumorigenesis in various cancers (e.g., glioblastoma, esophageal, pancreatic, breast cancers) by stabilizing oncoproteins like CCND1, YAP1, HDAC7, and RUNX1, enhancing proliferation, metastasis, and immune evasion. Conversely, it suppresses tumors (e.g., NSCLC, CRC, thyroid cancer) by stabilizing tumor suppressors like p53, PTEN, and Axin1, inhibiting pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin. Beyond oncology, USP10 contributes to neurodegenerative diseases (neuroprotective in PD/ALS, neurotoxic in AD via Tau stabilization), viral immunity (inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection), inflammatory responses, male reproduction, and metabolic/cardiovascular disorders. Its regulatory mechanisms include phosphorylation (e.g., by AMPK, AKT, ATM) controlling subcellular localization and activity, and ubiquitination via USP13. USP10's therapeutic significance drives inhibitor development (Spautin-1, D1, Wu-5, P22077, Parthenolide), though cross-reactivity within the USP family due to conserved catalytic domains remains a challenge. Novel strategies like PROTACs and engineered ubiquitin variants (UbVs) offer promise for future selective targeting of USP10 dysregulation in diverse diseases. A comprehensive understanding of its structure and context-specific functions is essential for exploiting its full therapeutic potential.},
}

@article {pmid40848849,
year = {2025},
author = {Ader, F and Aubret, É and Bergaud, N and Bouscambert-Duchamp, M and Circosta, S and Couffin-Cadiergues, S and Danion, F and Delmas, C and Diallo, A and Faure, E and Fougerou-Leurent, C and Gaymard, A and Lacombe, K and Mestre, SL and Locher, C and Merelle, A and Peiffer-Smadja, N and Pellegrin, I and Petrov-Sanchez, V and Wittkop, L},
title = {Clinical research in rapid sequence during a pandemic: Lessons learned and the way forward.},
journal = {Infectious diseases now},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105135},
doi = {10.1016/j.idnow.2025.105135},
pmid = {40848849},
issn = {2666-9919},
abstract = {Following COVID-19 pandemic, the structuring of a national research network for the preparation and response to emerging infectious diseases (EID) with epidemic or pandemic potential is essential. The national operational research network for EID, OPEN-ReMIE is funded for five years by the program France 2030 and operated by the National Research Agency (ANR). Its primary mission is to accelerate hospital-based clinical research with academic or industrial sponsors under epidemic or pandemic conditions and lead this effort within international research networks. The OPEN-ReMIE governance will steer the network and guarantee its operability in both inter- and crisis modes. It will be the point of entry for other key international trial platforms, academic and private sponsors, regulatory agencies, associations of citizens and patients or think tanks involved in promoting scientific integrity. OPEN-ReMIE includes six work packages: (i) regulatory affairs, sponsoring, fast-track procedures and contracts; (ii) clinical site network management; (iii) Methodology and management centers that will provide methodological expertise (generic master protocols, set of core and extended variable catalog, electronic case report form templates, data management and interoperability, monitoring); (iv) laboratory and biological resource center management; (v) drug supply and pharmacovigilance board; (vi) Training programs and communication plans for various stakeholders (research teams, healthcare professionals, students, associations of citizens and patients, and to a larger extent the civil society). OPEN-ReMIE is a national "preparedness task force" embedded in a larger European consortium for EID clinical research and working with other international EID clinical research platforms.},
}

@article {pmid40848675,
year = {2025},
author = {Tscherne, A and Sun, W and Liu, STH and Krammer, F},
title = {Mucosal COVID-19 vaccines in clinical development.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {63},
number = {},
pages = {127602},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127602},
pmid = {40848675},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {Mucosal vaccines are designed to elicit both a strong systemic and mucosal immune response gaining importance as the next generation of vaccines to combat the respiratory coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The ability of these vaccines to induce mucosal immune responses in the upper respiratory tract may allow efficient prevention of infection and transmission, which could potentially reduce virus circulation in the population. In addition, they have the advantage that they can be administered by non-medical personnel and without needles. Several preclinical studies in small animal models and non-human primates, but also early phase clinical studies confirmed the capability of mucosal COVID-19 candidate vaccines to induce long-lasting immunity and to provide protection against an infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In addition to five vaccines which are already approved/licensed, at least 28 mucosal COVID-19 vaccines, based on different vaccine platforms, are currently being tested in clinical trials. However, clinical data for most of the conducted and completed clinical trials are not publicly available yet. In addition, several initiated trials have been terminated or were withdrawn. In this review, we aim to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of mucosal COVID-19 vaccines and to summarize the current status of mucosal COVID-19 vaccines in clinical development, with an emphasis on the most advanced candidates and the key findings observed in preclinical animal models and clinical studies.},
}

@article {pmid40749771,
year = {2025},
author = {Choi, H and Kwon, BR and Cole, AR and Brooks, BW},
title = {Global occurrence and hazards of benzodiazepines in water resources: Knowledge gaps and future directions.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {384},
number = {},
pages = {126921},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126921},
pmid = {40749771},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are a group of psychoactive pharmaceuticals that are used to treat a variety of medical conditions. Due to the widespread usage of this class of medicines, BZDs have been frequently reported in aquatic systems. We performed a critical review of the refereed literature to better understand the prevalence of BZDs in aquatic matrices and associated water quality hazards. Forty-five BZDs were included in this study, of which 20 compounds have been detected in 5 different aquatic matrices ranging across 6 continents. Most of the aquatic monitoring observations for BZDs were available from Europe, with 1434 maximum measured environmental concentration data points, while 428 and 144 data points were reported from Asia and North America, respectively. Monitoring data gaps were identified in Antarctica, South America, Oceania, and Africa. We identified a temporal change in which BZDs occurrence in sewage, effluents and surface waters increased after initiation of the global COVID-19 pandemic, which appears related to increased prescription rates of these medications to treat mental health conditions. Probabilistic environmental hazard assessments were then performed for compounds with sufficient data using therapeutic hazard values (THVs) and predicted no effect concentrations (PNECs). Over 81 % exceedances of traditional morphometric and behavior PNECs were observed for temazepam and diazepam in African surface waters. Here again, increased exeedances were identified post-COVID-19. Numerous ecotoxicity data gaps were present for almost all BZDs; in fact, sufficient toxicity data to calculate both morphometric and behavioral PNECs was only available for diazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam. Our findings highlight important water quality hazards among global regions and aquatic matrices, which can inform future research efforts to understand and manage BZDs in the environment.},
}

@article {pmid40848491,
year = {2025},
author = {Ravindran, C and Mukherjee, S},
title = {Zebrafish as a model for SARS-CoV-2 infection, pathogenesis, transmission, and drug screening.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {611},
number = {},
pages = {110662},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2025.110662},
pmid = {40848491},
issn = {1096-0341},
abstract = {Causative agent, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus - 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires a host for its infection, replication, and spread. With the availability of several animal models and their limitations, there is a need for an alternative animal model with a high degree of conserved synteny at a laboratory scale. Zebrafish resemble humans in terms of conserved genetic homology aiding to understand the viral pathology and screening a variety of drug molecules. For e.g., the SARS-CoV-2 transmission was well established via air, infected people, and other surfaces. However, the viral titers in domestic sewage of infected people's excrements transmission through the water bodies were not well studied with a suitable model system. Thus, in the present study, we explore zebrafish as a potential host for SARS-CoV-2 like viruses entry, pathophysiology, transmission, and preclinical assessment of drugs involved in immune response and viral load reduction against SARS-CoV like viruses.},
}

@article {pmid40847787,
year = {2025},
author = {Siqueira, RP and Nascimento de Lira, CR and Cunha, CM and de Farias Costa, PR and Conceição-Machado, MEPD},
title = {Influence of mental health on eating practices among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of health psychology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {13591053251361714},
doi = {10.1177/13591053251361714},
pmid = {40847787},
issn = {1461-7277},
abstract = {This systematic review examines how anxiety, depression, and stress influence university students' dietary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. After registering the protocol at PROSPERO(CRD42025639716), we searched seven databases, gray literature and references list. Observational studies assessing mental health as exposure and dietary changes as outcomes were selected by two reviewers. The JBI tools assessed risk of bias. A qualitative synthesis of the findings was performed to integrate results narratively. Of 2,624 records, 22 studies (20 cross-sectional, 2 cohort) were included, 95.46% at low risk of bias but methodologically diverse. Heightened anxiety, depression, and stress were linked to emotional or uncontrolled eating and increased ultra-processed food intake. A small subset (13.64%) reported atypical patterns, such as reduced dessert consumption or increased consumption of fresh/minimally processed foods. Pandemic-related disruptions appeared to exacerbate psychological-disstress-induced dietary changes. Future longitudinal or intervention studies should clarify causal pathways and assess programs targeting mental health and nutrition.},
}

@article {pmid40847375,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Z and Du, J and Zhang, D and Han, R and Wu, X and Liang, Y},
title = {Research progress of mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases.},
journal = {European journal of medical research},
volume = {30},
number = {1},
pages = {792},
pmid = {40847375},
issn = {2047-783X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; *Communicable Diseases/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology ; Nanoparticles ; },
abstract = {mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases prevent diseases by stimulating the body to produce specific immune responses through mRNA molecules encoding pathogenic proteins. Compared to traditional vaccines (e.g., inactivated, live attenuated, subunit, recombinant protein and viral vectors), mRNA vaccines offer several advantages including high safety, potent efficacy, scalable large-scale production, and cost-effectiveness. mRNA vaccines have demonstrated significant potential in combating infectious diseases since their inception. In particular, during the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the mRNA vaccines delivered with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been developed by BioNTech and Moderna, their exceptional protective efficacy and extensive clinical application further proved the rapid responsiveness of mRNA vaccines in addressing emerging infectious diseases. This success has brought mRNA vaccines back into the spotlight of the scientific community. This article reviews the molecular biological basis, delivery systems, and immune mechanisms of mRNA vaccines, as well as the progress of research and clinical trials related to mRNA vaccines targeting the COVID-19 virus, influenza virus, rabies virus, Zika virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), while also discussing the current challenges faced in the application of mRNA vaccines. These discussions provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for the future development of mRNA vaccines targeting bacterial infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
*Communicable Diseases/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology
Nanoparticles

@article {pmid40846319,
year = {2025},
author = {Chau, LW and Lam, RW and Minas, H and Hayashi, K and Nguyen, VC and O'Neil, J},
title = {Digital Health Interventions for Depression and Anxiety in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Rapid Scoping Review.},
journal = {JMIR mental health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e68296},
doi = {10.2196/68296},
pmid = {40846319},
issn = {2368-7959},
mesh = {Humans ; *Developing Countries ; *Telemedicine ; COVID-19 ; *Depression/therapy ; *Anxiety/therapy ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which bear a larger proportion of the global mental illness burden, have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic due to preexisting mental health care system deficiencies. The pandemic has also led to a considerable increase in care delivered through digital mental health interventions (DMHIs), many of which have been adapted from in-person formats. Thus, there is a need to examine their fidelity to the original format along with issues regarding usability and other challenges to and facilitators of their uptake in LMICs. As most DMHIs have been developed in high-income countries, examining their cultural adaptation to LMIC settings is also critical.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to conduct a rapid scoping review of the available evidence on DMHIs for depression and anxiety, two of the most common mental disorders, in LMICs.

METHODS: A rapid scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) and processes for rapid reviews by Tricco et al. The PubMed and PsycINFO databases were searched for records published between January 2020 (when COVID-19 was declared a public health emergency) and January 2025 using a search strategy developed in consultation with a liaison librarian. The pandemic accelerated the development and application of DMHIs, and this time frame was used to capture the recent literature that may have incorporated new methods of application. The search strategy was developed across three domains: (1) digital health interventions, (2) depression or anxiety, and (3) LMICs. Data were charted from the final records according to (1) intervention type; (2) discussions on fidelity, usability, and cultural adaptation; and (3) challenges to and facilitators of their uptake in LMICs.

RESULTS: A total of 80 records were included in the final analysis, with reasons for exclusion (eg, focused on mental health in general, not being a DMHI, or not focused on LMICs) reported. Six DMHI platforms were identified: (1) mobile app, (2) the web, (3) virtual reality, (4) videoconferencing, (5) telemedicine, and (6) social media. Less than half of the records referenced fidelity (16/80, 20%), usability (29/80, 36%), and cultural adaptation (31/80, 39%). Challenges pertained to the technological system, engagement issues, structural barriers, and concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality. Facilitators included widespread mobile phone use, built-in supervision and training features, and convenience.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite the opportunities that DMHIs offer for reducing the mental health treatment gap, further work examining and improving their fidelity, usability, and cultural adaptation is required. In addition, various challenges to the uptake of DMHIs in LMICs, including contextual issues, structural barriers, and privacy concerns, must be mitigated to avoid contributing further to the digital divide.},
}

Humans
*Developing Countries
*Telemedicine
COVID-19
*Depression/therapy
*Anxiety/therapy
Digital Health

@article {pmid40844222,
year = {2025},
author = {Mikulska, M and Bassetti, M and Busca, A and Cento, V and Giannella, M and Bartoletti, M},
title = {Role of remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19 in patients with hematologic malignancy-A narrative review and expert opinion.},
journal = {European journal of clinical investigation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70108},
doi = {10.1111/eci.70108},
pmid = {40844222},
issn = {1365-2362},
support = {//Gilead Sciences Srl Italy/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 remains a potentially severe condition for immunocompromised individuals, such as patients with hematologic malignancy. These patients are at increased risk of progressing to severe-critical or prolonged COVID-19. Prompt treatment with antivirals has proven effective in preventing disease progression and is recommended by current guidelines. We discuss here the position of remdesivir in the management of onco-hematologic patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and strategies for its use.

METHODS: Narrative review of current evidence regarding remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19 in patients with hematologic malignancy.

RESULTS: Patients with non-severe COVID-19 should receive remdesivir as soon as possible after diagnosis, and within 7 days from symptom onset. A 3-day treatment duration is recommended. In patients at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 - patients with B-cell depletion and recipients of allogeneic HSCT or CAR T cell therapy or bispecific antibodies - treatment may be prolonged and/or combined with other COVID-19 therapeutics. Patients with severe COVID-19 requiring supplemental oxygen should receive remdesivir as soon as possible, preferentially for 10 days. In those at high risk of progressing to critical COVID-19, combination of remdesivir with other COVID-19 therapeutics can be considered. In case of relapse or persisting symptoms, remdesivir treatment can be prolonged and/or repeated or combined with other COVID-19 therapeutics.

CONCLUSIONS: Evidence from clinical trials and real-world studies shows that remdesivir is a valid option for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2-infected onco-hematologic patients, across a wide spectrum of COVID-19 severity. The drawback of remdesivir-intravenous administration mode-is counterbalanced by good tolerability, negligible drug-drug interactions and a high barrier to virus resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40844207,
year = {2025},
author = {Herrera-Uribe, J and Stevenson, NJ},
title = {SOCS Proteins: Key Players in Immune Regulation During SARS-CoV-2 Infection.},
journal = {European journal of immunology},
volume = {55},
number = {8},
pages = {e51645},
doi = {10.1002/eji.202451645},
pmid = {40844207},
issn = {1521-4141},
support = {SFI 20/SPP/3685/SFI_/Science Foundation Ireland/Ireland ; SFI 19/FFP/6483/SFI_/Science Foundation Ireland/Ireland ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling Proteins/immunology/metabolism ; Signal Transduction/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins are crucial components of the immune response against viral infections. SOCS proteins inhibit cytokine signaling through various mechanisms, such as blocking STAT binding to JAKs and targeting proteins for ubiquitination and degradation. While these proteins maintain immune balance by suppressing excessive inflammatory responses, many viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, exploit SOCS proteins to evade host immunity. In consequence, understanding their modulatory functions in viral disease has become increasingly relevant. Therefore, this review aims to describe and discuss studies involving SOCS expression data in COVID-19 and their potential modulation as a valuable use for therapeutic strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling Proteins/immunology/metabolism
Signal Transduction/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid40843392,
year = {2025},
author = {Pargar, F and Rabiei, Z and Keramat, A},
title = {Menstrual Disorders Following Covid 19 Vaccination in Women of Reproductive Age and Post-Menopause. A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {8},
number = {8},
pages = {e71103},
pmid = {40843392},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the coronavirus pandemic, several factors such as stress, depression, infection, and vaccination against the COVID-19 virus have caused changes in the menstrual cycle.

OBJECTIVE & AIMS: This systematic review intended to provide a comprehensive interpretation of the changes in the menstrual cycle of women of reproductive age and menopause after coronavirus vaccination. Method: Electronic databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Cochrane, SAGE, Springer, Google Scholar, and CINHAL were searched for published studies from March 2020 to June 2023. Of the 682 references identified in the initial search, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS: The results of this systematic review showed that COVID-19 vaccination is associated with a wide range of menstrual disorders in women of reproductive age and postmenopausal women. The most commonly reported disorders were menorrhagia, delayed menstruation, changes in menstrual cycle length, spotting between periods, and increased bleeding volume. In postmenopausal women, complications such as spotting and resumption of bleeding were also observed. Although the prevalence and incidence of each disorder varied across studies, these findings suggest that vaccination can lead to changes in the menstrual cycle.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 vaccination may lead to menstrual disorders in women of reproductive and postmenopausal age, which can cause concern and reduce social and psychological quality of life. However, these effects are usually temporary and transient, resolving after a few menstrual cycles. Further studies are needed to investigate the possible mechanisms of this association and identify associated risk factors.},
}